Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have discovered an optical version of the quantum hall effect, unlocking new properties of excitons in two-dimensional semiconductors. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in quantum computing, memory storage, and solar energy harvesting.
A new study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers offers insights into the optimal refund strategies for firms operating in multiple channels. The findings suggest that firms can benefit from offering full refunds to customers who are uncertain about product valuation, particularly those who visit physical stores before purchasing.
A new study by researchers from the University of Zurich and Harvard Medical School found that the high cost of cancer drugs in the US is not always justified. The study analyzed the costs of 65 cancer drugs in five countries and found no correlation between monthly treatment costs and clinical benefit.
A new ultrafast high-temperature sintering method has been invented, promising applications in solid-state batteries, fuel cells and 3D printing technologies. The process requires less than 10 seconds of total processing time, compared to traditional furnace approaches that take hours.
A team of researchers has discovered a system of ridges on the nearside of the Moon topped with freshly exposed boulders, which could be evidence of active lunar tectonic processes. The findings suggest that the Moon may still be experiencing ongoing geological activity.
The study found that Greenland's ice sheet lost an average of 200 gigatons of ice per year, and Antarctica's ice sheet lost an average of 118 gigatons of ice per year. This resulted in a global sea level rise of 0.55 inches (14 millimeters) since 2003.
A UMass Lowell researcher has received a $1.4 million federal grant to develop a novel solution for detecting damage in wind turbine blades using sound monitoring technology.
Researchers have developed a method using phononic crystals to generate tunable, time-variant sound fields that can trap and transport particles and cells in microchannels. This technology has potential applications in display technology, biomedical sensors, and diagnostic tools.
Researchers from the University of Cincinnati have published recommendations for stroke therapy during the pandemic, emphasizing that a COVID-19 diagnosis should not prevent patients from receiving life-saving treatment. The guidelines aim to balance patient care with staff safety and scarce resources.
Virginia Tech researchers used CRISPR genome editing in zebrafish to find that PHETA1-like proteins are necessary for renal function and craniofacial development. The study linked the protein mutation to kidney and craniofacial problems observed in a patient with an undiagnosed disease.
A Rutgers engineer has developed a mathematical model that accurately estimates the COVID-19 death toll in the United States, predicting approximately 68,120 cumulative deaths by late June 2020. The model shows high confidence in its predictions, with reported death totals closely matching its estimates.
The study suggests that women have a lower threshold for seeking primary healthcare compared to men, with older women living longer with disabling conditions. This difference may be due to various factors such as fear of diagnosis or differences in symptom recognition.
A University of Illinois study finds climate-smart agricultural practices increase maize yields, particularly when farmers have access to training and resources. The practices, such as absorption trenches and agroforestry fertilizer trees, help conserve water and soil nutrients.
The study highlights the psychological impact of working in healthcare during the pandemic, including acute stress reactions, burnout, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and 'moral injury'. The paper offers pragmatic recommendations for individuals, teams, and organizational leaders to provide tangible support.
The study demonstrates that nanoscale magnetic gyroids can adopt a large number of stable states, exhibiting ferromagnetic behavior without a unique equilibrium configuration. The findings establish gyroids as a candidate system for research into unconventional information processing and emergent phenomena relevant to spintronics.
Researchers at Houston Methodist developed a clinically-applicable mathematical model to predict patient outcomes in cancer immunotherapy. The model uses CT-scan imaging data to identify patient-specific indicators of therapeutic response, correlating with anti-tumor immune state and tumor kill rates.
A subset of retinal neurons sends inhibitory signals to the brain, affecting subconscious behaviors such as synchronizing circadian rhythms with light/dark cycles. This discovery sheds light on how eyes influence our behavior and vision in response to light intensity.
A new study from University of South Australia and others found that businesses with strategic HRM systems focused on participation and collaborative communication practices are stronger in times of adversity. These systems developed a culture of trust, encouraging employees to share responsibility and step up to help management move t...
Researchers found that older adults with worsening insomnia symptoms were more likely to remain depressed and report suicidal ideation. The study suggests that treating sleep problems should be explored as a potential means to improve depression outcomes in older people.
Researchers have developed a non-invasive method to visualize damage in donor kidneys using photoacoustic imaging. This technique allows for accurate assessment of kidney scarring and can potentially revolutionize transplantation protocol by matching organs with patient life expectancy, reducing costs and improving outcomes.
Researchers found that a genetic mutation in the KCC2 protein causes a glitch in brain activity suppression, leading to panic responses and seizures. The R952H variant has been linked to individuals with autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy, and schizophrenia.
A new simulation model describes various modes of cancer evolution in a unified manner, shedding light on therapeutic resistance and novel strategies. The study found that linear evolution occurs with strong driver mutations, while intratumor heterogeneity is shaped by natural selection or neutral evolution.
The Bay of Biscay has been identified as a hotspot for marine litter, with microplastics found in over 50% of water and sediment samples. The polymers most prevalent are polypropylene, polyethylene, polyester, and polystyrene, often originating from the breaking up of larger objects.
Scientists have developed nanodevices that capture and trap beta-amyloid peptides, a key component of Alzheimer's plaques. The devices show promise in preventing plaque formation and reducing cell death, with over 90% efficiency compared to control particles.
Researchers uncover the lives of three 16th-century African slaves found in a mass burial site in Mexico City, tracing their African origins and physical hardships. They also identify novel pathogens carried by the individuals, shedding light on the early introduction of diseases like hepatitis B virus and yaws to Latin America.
Researchers from ITMO University and Czech Academy of Sciences develop nanoantenna to efficiently manipulate light, creating an optical vortex that mixes liquids and reagents. The system uses gold nanoparticles as a stirring 'spoon', amplifying diffusion by hundreds of times while minimizing side effects.
Researchers have synthesized novel lipophilic guanylhydrazones, finding that adamantane derivatives with hydrophobic bulky substituents exhibit synergistic trypanocidal activity. The most potent compound, G8, demonstrates nanomolar efficacy against T. brucei.
A new study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that incorporating cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) into traditional risk factor assessments improves mortality risk prediction accuracy. CRF was strongly associated with a lower risk of mortality, particularly when combined with age, sex, blood pressure, cholesterol, and smoking.
Researchers found that bats prefer moving katydid models over still or vibrating ones, posing a risk to both signalers and searchers during courtship. This study highlights the importance of predator avoidance in tropical ecosystems.
A study by NYU Wagner found that participatory budgeting in NYC has led to smaller, more numerous capital projects and potentially increased political patronage. The process allows citizens to determine priorities for public spending, but the analysis suggests that city legislators may be using it to dispense patronage instead.
A study by NYU researchers found that peer support specialists with criminal and psychiatric histories can lead more empowered, meaningful, and productive lives. The role offers a possibility for employment despite past limitations, leading to increased hope and community reintegration.
DNA repair mechanisms choose between pathways to limit harmful chromosomal combinations that may be predisposed to cancer and genetic diseases. The study found Rad52-dependent single-strand annealing leads to gross chromosomal rearrangements at centromeres, while Rad51 promotes conservative non-crossover recombination.
A comprehensive review published in The FASEB Journal doubts the use of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine as treatments for COVID-19 due to their immunosuppressive effects. The authors warn that these drugs may impair patients' responses to the virus, a concern previously overlooked.
Climate researchers question CESM2 model's extreme warming projections, citing geological evidence from a 50-million-year-old warming period. The study highlights the need to benchmark climate models using geological data to ensure accurate predictions.
A new analysis from NYU researchers outlines ways to manage life under COVID-19 by combating racially driven bias and fake news. The study suggests using pre-bunking approaches and social norms understanding to reduce misinformation and increase cooperation.
A study by University of Oregon researchers found that companies that successfully engage with their target audience and incorporate feedback into their prototypes are more likely to reach their fundraising goals and attract media coverage. Engaging with potential end-users early on can create buzz and increase the chances of success i...
Researchers at Washington State University have identified a key protein in Borrelia burgdorferi that shields the immune system from fighting Lyme disease. By understanding this 'VlsE' protein, they hope to develop effective vaccines against the disease.
Researchers at Temple University Health System use Lin28 to fuel axon regrowth in mice with spinal cord injury or optic nerve damage, enabling repair of the body's communication grid. The study shows significant improvements in coordination and sensation after Lin28 treatment.
Professors Sarah Gaffen and Vijay Kuchroo jointly recognized for deciphering the role of IL-17 in health and disease. Their work has made significant headway in establishing systems for IL-17 investigation, contributing to immunotherapeutics targeting autoimmune diseases.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a new AI-powered teaching interface that allows teachers to create intelligent tutoring systems in minutes, rather than hours. This innovation has the potential to increase the adoption of AI-based tutors and provide deeper insights into learning processes.
Researchers detect a superconducting current along the exterior edge of a topological semi-metal, suggesting ways to unlock 'topological superconductivity' for quantum computing. The discovery uses a crystalline material called molybdenum ditelluride and measures the critical current as it varies with magnetic field.
Researchers compiled a special report on COVID-19 diagnostic tests, highlighting the need for fast, convenient, and accurate methods. The report provides an overview of molecular and serological assays underlying these tests, as well as over 200 diagnostic tests currently available.
A new study reveals that slow-moving seafloor currents near the bottom of the ocean direct the flow of microplastics, creating hotspots in sediments. These currents supply oxygen and nutrients to deep sea creatures, increasing the chance of ingestion by toxic microplastics.
A new study by University of California, Riverside engineers shows that two microscopic bubbles penetrate soft materials better than one, creating long, fine jets with only five pulses. This breakthrough could lead to compact, device-free alternatives for needle-free applications.
A study of 369 solar-like stars reveals that the Sun's solar brightness variations are among the weakest, with fluctuations typically about 5 times stronger in other stars. The research suggests that our star may have been unusually inactive over the past 9000 years.
A study of 922 oocytes from obese and overweight women found lower concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids. The findings suggest that poor lipid composition in the ova may contribute to childhood and adult obesity.
Researchers have developed a novel method to induce regulatory T-cells from mesenchymal stromal cells, which could lead to new treatments for various chronic inflammatory diseases. The study found that MSCs can produce an abundant replacement for naturally occurring T-cells, increasing the count and frequency of Treg-like cells.
Cornell University astronomers have created a spectral field guide to help future scientists identify biosignatures in the atmospheres of Earth-like exoplanets orbiting white dwarfs. The guide provides template for possible biosignatures, including methane and ozone, which could indicate life on these distant worlds.
The James Webb Space Telescope will survey the Trapezium Cluster in the Orion Nebula to understand how young stars and planets form. The team will study the distribution of masses, planet formation phases, and jets from young stars, shedding light on stellar nursery riddles.
Researchers provide insights and recommendations to improve UK police forces' recognition, reporting, and analysis of child-to-parent abuse. The study highlights the need for a multi-agency partnership approach to prevent abuse and provides guidance for agencies to collect data on this issue.
A study by RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences found that Irish patients with severe COVID-19 infection experience abnormal blood clotting, leading to micro-clots in the lungs. This abnormal blood-clotting disorder contributes to a worse prognosis and increased risk of ICU admission.
A new study revealed that 42.8% of medical staff treated COVID-19 patients experienced serious skin injuries related to personal protective equipment (PPE) use. The most common types of skin injuries were device-related pressure injuries, moist associated skin damage, and skin tears.
Researchers from Skoltech have made significant progress in understanding the apoptotic program, a crucial process for removing unneeded or abnormal cells. The study has identified key proteins involved in this process, which could lead to new therapeutic targets for treating cancer.
An interdisciplinary study of three African skeletons found in Mexico City sheds light on the lives of first-generation enslaved Africans. The analysis reveals evidence of forced migration, physical trauma, and the introduction of infectious diseases from Sub-Saharan Africa.
A new treatment for chronic pain has been developed by researchers at the University of Copenhagen, tested in mice and published in EMBO Molecular Medicine. The targeted peptide Tat-P4-(C5)2 achieves complete pain relief without side effects.
A new study from the University of Gothenburg finds that weighted vests can lead to a reduction in body weight and fat mass, particularly when wearing heavy weights, while maintaining muscle mass. The researchers suggest that this is due to a built-in energy balance system that endeavors to keep body weight constant.
Despite preliminary trial results, experts caution against using antimalarial drugs like chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine to treat or prevent COVID-19. Serious side effects and limited clinical evidence make these drugs unsuitable for general use.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that cancer patients with no health insurance or Medicaid do not receive the same trial benefits as those with private insurance. The research highlights the importance of expanding insurance coverage to ensure all Americans access life-saving treatments.
A new study by the University of the Basque Country confirms that offshore wind turbines can produce hydrogen fuel with significant increases in energy generation. The research found that adding vortex generators and Gurney flaps to wind turbines improved aerodynamics, resulting in 2.5% higher annual energy production.
Researchers at Lipo-ImmunoTech, a joint venture between Medical University of South Carolina researchers, are developing a novel adoptive cell therapy technology that factors in the role of lipids in suppressing the immune system. The grant aims to enhance the viability and functionality of expanded T cells.