A new report emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary approaches to develop safer autonomous systems, engaging experts from humanities, social sciences, and engineering. The report recommends creating a network of institutes to share ideas and concerns, ultimately developing a regulatory framework.
Researchers at ESRF and UCL are developing a transformational X-ray tomography technology to scan whole human bodies with unprecedented resolution. They aim to enable cellular-level imaging, which could help understand complex diseases like COVID-19.
A Penn State research team conducted field tests on three commonly used mineral-based aerosol sunscreens, finding trace nanoparticles but at safe levels. The study suggests that the canister design and active ingredients are unlikely to produce vastly different amounts of nanoparticles.
A Seoul National University team developed a soft thermoelectric device capable of active cooling and heating, allowing for thermal camouflage in both visible and infrared spectrums. The device incorporates thermochromic liquid crystal to control light reflectance, enabling various colors to be expressed by adjusting temperature.
A recent study found that pallets are responsible for over 30,000 hospital emergency room visits in the US due to unintentional contact. The majority of injured individuals were between 35-44 years old, with children under 18 and elderly people also at risk.
Researchers found a brain molecule called Pth2 that changes expression levels in response to social conditions. When zebrafish are isolated, Pth2 disappears, but its levels rapidly rise when they're added back into a group, indicating a 'thermometer' effect.
A new machine learning algorithm, TranSEC, uses traffic datasets from UBER drivers and publicly available sensor data to map street-level traffic flow over time. This creates a big picture of city traffic, allowing for near-real-time analysis and predictive modeling.
Researchers found that active shooter drills can cause emotional distress and uncertainty among students, highlighting the need for evidence-based strategies. Social-emotional learning programs and a safe, supportive environment are key to reducing gun violence in schools, according to West Virginia University Professor Keith Zullig.
Researchers found that ozone reacts with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on surfaces to produce new compounds. The study characterized these compounds for the first time and found they form over time, decreasing THC levels.
New research on glass beads from archaeological sites in Mali and Senegal suggests a more intricate network of trade exchange during the emergence of Sahelian states. The findings shed new light on medieval commerce, revealing previously unknown regional connections.
A study by Octapharma at ASH found that high-dose Octagam 10% IVIg significantly improved hypoxia and reduced hospital length of stay in COVID-19 patients with pneumonia. A larger multicenter study is underway to determine if the therapy can slow or stop respiratory deterioration.
Researchers found a molecular basis for the connection between disrupted circadian rhythms and substance abuse in mice with an NPAS2 gene mutation. The study revealed sex-based differences in behavioral changes related to cocaine administration and striatum activation.
The NUS team has devised a method to convert natural gas into a non-explosive solid that can be easily stored and transported. Using a novel additive mixture, the conversion can be completed in just 15 minutes, which is faster than existing standards.
New research highlights the need for individualized treatment plans and instructions to prevent adverse events during transitions. Patients returning home face challenges managing medication, therapy, and care transitions due to COVID-19.
Research at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health finds a 7% increase in preterm birth rates among women from MENA countries impacted by the 2017 travel ban. Anti-immigrant and Islamophobic policies are associated with detrimental shifts in health outcomes for pregnant women and infants.
The FDA's ISTAND program aims to qualify human biology-based drug testing methods, reducing the need for animal testing. Pharmaceutical companies can now use these approaches with confidence, as they will be reviewed and accepted by the FDA.
Researchers from the University of Exeter and ZSL used GPS and satellite tags in plastic bottles to track plastic pollution in the Ganges river and Bay of Bengal. The study found that plastic pollution can travel thousands of kilometers in just a few months, with some bottles traveling up to 2,845km in 94 days.
Researchers at Duke University have developed a novel thermal contact system that can switch between heating and cooling modes. The device uses specially designed nanoscale materials to harness or expel specific wavelengths of light, reducing energy consumption by nearly 20% in the US.
Scientists have developed a natural potassium-tantalate-niobate (KTN) perovskite nonlinear photonic crystal with 3D spontaneous Rubik's domain structures, enabling compensation of phase-mismatch along arbitrary directions. This breakthrough paves the way for new applications in optical communications, quantum entanglement sources, and ...
SWOG Cancer Research Network members will share results of five network-led studies at SABCS, advancing breast cancer science and medicine. The research includes findings from RxPONDER, a trial that may change practice in breast cancer treatment.
A study using AI to analyze abdominal CT images found that visceral fat area is independently associated with future heart attacks and strokes. The analysis, which outperformed traditional BMI measures, may lead to more accurate cardiovascular risk assessments.
A 12-year longitudinal study found that young people who develop higher levels of conscientiousness and emotional stability tend to be more successful in their early careers. The study's findings suggest that personality growth can have real-world benefits for career outcomes.
The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) has awarded nearly $32 million in funding to support biomedical imaging researchers and technology development. The grants will focus on visualizing proteins in cells at near-atomic resolution to better understand health and disease.
Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology predict that 100-year and 500-year flood levels will become regular occurrences in Jamaica Bay, New York by the end of the century. Climate change is expected to lead to more intense and frequent storms, causing greater flooding even if storm intensity remains the same.
Researchers developed a light-activated hydrogen sensor inspired by butterfly wings, offering precision results at room temperature. The sensor can detect tiny amounts of hydrogen in people's breath and measure concentrations across a full range.
A study analyzing necropsy reports of stranded killer whales found human activity as a cause of death for orcas across every age group. The study highlights the need to address human interactions, such as vessel strikes and fishing gear entanglement, to protect these vulnerable populations.
Mathematical analysis reveals optimal Thoroughbred horse racing speed by analyzing track data and considering factors such as course length, surface type, and weather conditions. The study provides insights into the physical limitations of horses and the importance of course-specific factors in determining optimal speed.
Researchers have discovered a camp with a warehouse on the Dutch islands of Curaçao and Bonaire, revealing everyday objects from the first half of the eighteenth century. The findings shed light on the impact of informal maritime commerce on society and daily life in colonial communities.
Berkeley Lab researchers have developed a machine learning model that can design structures with desired optical properties, speeding up the process by at least two to three orders of magnitude. The CUORE experiment has collected a record-breaking dataset for a 'neutrinoless' experiment, surpassing previous experiments by about 10 times.
A study published in Science Advances found that complex animal colorations can evolve through a simple mechanism: pattern blending by hybridization. This hypothesis is supported by an analysis of over 18,000 fish species, revealing strong associations between intricate maze-like patterns and simple spot patterns.
A new microscopy technique allows direct observation of droplet nucleation, enabling precise mathematical descriptions of the process. The technique improves contrast and resolution, revealing a different relationship between site density and nearest-neighbor function.
A new special edition of Rehabilitation Psychology examines the diverse ways caring for an individual with TBI impacts well-being, including family life, mood, physical health, sleep and social relationships. A unique tool called the TBI-CareQOL Measurement System helps standardize measures for quality of life in caregivers.
Researchers discovered that seeds of garden peas contain amyloid-like aggregates of storage proteins, which could lead to less allergenic legume varieties. The formation of these amyloids may also reduce the nutritional value of plant seeds.
A recent analysis of Geisinger Health System's electronic health records reveals chronic kidney disease as the leading risk factor for COVID-19-related hospitalization. The study found that patients with end-stage renal disease were 11 times more likely to be admitted to the hospital compared to those without kidney disease.
A new lab-on-a-chip developed at Imperial College London can process and present results in minutes, cutting costs and time of traditional PCR tests. The chip, called TriSilix, has been used to diagnose bacterial infections and a synthetic version of the genetic material from SARS-CoV-2.
Researchers identified distinct gut microbiome signatures in individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD), including higher levels of Bacteroides and lower levels of Blautia. A biomarker-based diagnostic tool may help physicians diagnose MDD, providing a companion to clinical interviews.
A glutamatergic neuronal circuit from the prelimbic prefrontal cortex to the nucleus accumbens is responsible for co-occurring anxiety and obsessive-compulsive-like behaviors. Histamine presynaptic H3 receptor activation in this circuit ameliorates stress-induced anxiety and obsessive-compulsive-like behaviors.
Researchers at Brown University are tracking COVID-19 vaccine adverse events among nursing home residents due to the group's high risk of severe illness. The study uses electronic medical records and aims to identify potential side effects, which may be critical for protecting this vulnerable population.
A team of scientists has developed a visualization technique that reveals the intricate mechanism by which a key protein involved in muscle activity shuts itself down to conserve energy. This discovery provides new insights into how genetic mutations in this protein can lead to various diseases.
Researchers have overcome a major speed limit in manufacturing human neurons from stem cells, enabling rapid production of unlimited numbers of neurons. This breakthrough has significant advantages for academic researchers and pharmaceutical developers, providing a critical cell type weeks faster than before.
Research suggests stress hormones and immune cells may contribute to tumor recurrence by reactivating dormant cancer cells. Targeting stress hormones with approved drugs like beta-blockers could potentially prevent tumors from returning.
A large multi-site study has found a link between brain connectivity and grey matter atrophy caused by certain types of epilepsy. The study used big data analysis to accurately predict damage to grey matter over time.
A UOC project has developed a 3D virtual environment to train surgeons' psychomotor skills, providing real-time feedback and metrics. The tool has been tested with over 148 users, showing its validity in improving surgeons' performance at different stages of their careers.
Researchers successfully restored vision in mice by turning back the clock on aged eye cells, reversing vision loss caused by glaucoma. The approach also reversed age-related vision loss in elderly mice, offering promise for treating various age-related diseases in humans.
A study found that amphibian declines due to the amphibian chytrid fungus exacerbated malaria outbreaks in Costa Rica and Panama during the 1990s and 2000s. Preserving biodiversity can benefit humans as well as local ecosystems.
A new drug, originally developed to treat bacterial infections, has shown the capacity to increase cell energy expenditure and reduce weight gain in mice fed a high-fat diet. The treatment works by reprogramming white adipose tissue cells to behave like brown adipose tissue, burning calories to generate heat.
Scientists at the University of Southampton have made a breakthrough in reconstructing eye tissues from the outer retina using serial block face scanning electron microscopy. The study provides a clear picture of the 3D organisation of the retinal pigment epithelium, which could help understand causes of damage leading to sight loss.
A study by University of Vermont researcher Tammy Kolbe found that inquiry-based science teaching requires minimum five hours instruction weekly to use recommended learning practices. Only one-third of eighth-grade students receive at least 5 hours of science instruction each week.
Researchers developed a combined hardware and software printing system that uses off-the-shelf varnishes to finish objects with realistic, spatially varying gloss patterns. The technology has potential applications in fine art reproduction and prosthetic design, offering near-flawless replicas and more realistic-looking prosthetics.
Researchers from ETRI and DGIST created a novel electrode structure composed of graphite active material and no solid electrolyte, increasing energy density by 150%. The new design enables higher active material content and improved performance.
A new study finds that roly polies and other terrestrial bugs are transferring high levels of mercury to steelhead trout, a threatened species in coastal California. The research confirms earlier findings that mercury can accumulate in the top of the food chain in coastal ecosystems.
Research suggests that children are less likely to experience severe COVID-19 due to a stronger innate immune response and trained immunity, as well as better blood vessel health. Vitamin D levels also play a crucial role in protecting against the disease.
Researchers from Université de Genève analyzed 16 glass beads found in Mali and Senegal, discovering they were made of Egyptian, Levantine coast, and Middle Eastern glass. The study sheds light on sub-Saharan Africa's extensive trade networks with Europe and Asia during the region's early development.
Researchers at Dartmouth College have discovered a class of molecular materials that can be used to make temporary adhesives that don't require force for removal. These non-permanent glues offer expanded design strategies for bonding surfaces together and can lead to new manufacturing techniques and pharmaceutical design.
Researchers at CNIC have identified mitochondrial protein ALDH4A1 as a potential marker for cardiovascular disease diagnosis and a possible therapeutic target. The study found that ALDH4A1 accumulates in plaques and its plasma concentration is elevated in patients with carotid atherosclerosis, suggesting it as a biomarker.
A new study from Harvard Medical School forecasts the impact of eliminating race from kidney function formulas on Black patients with kidney disease. The analysis suggests that removing race-based adjustments may lead to earlier diagnoses and better access to care, but also restricts access to certain medications and treatments.
A cohort of NASA interns developed network protocols for Delay/Disruption Tolerant Networking (DTN), enabling flexible communication in space and remote areas. DTN will revolutionize space communications, empowering NASA to establish a sustained presence on the Moon.
A decade-long analysis of necropsies reveals that killer whales are vulnerable to multiple human-caused deaths, affecting all age classes. The study underscores the need for improved conservation strategies and mitigation efforts to protect these endangered species.
A new study warns that the Greenland ice sheet will experience irreversible melting if global warming exceeds 2°C, leading to significant sea-level rise and permanent changes. The ice sheet's decline could be reversed with actions to counteract global warming before it's too late.
A recent survey by Bright Line Watch found that fewer than a third of Republican voters have confidence in the national vote count, with nearly half expecting Donald Trump to be inaugurated for a second term. The study highlights the persistence of partisan divisions and mistrust in election results among Trump supporters.