The EU Sharc25 project optimized conversion efficiency of CIGSe thin film technology through theoretical modeling, experimental characterization, and technological expertise sharing. The efficiency rose from 21.7 to 22.6 percent, thanks to post-processing with alkali elements.
Research from Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg found that integrating high-intensity interval training (HIIT) into standard physical education improved children's health within a short period of time. HIIT alternates intense exercise with recovery periods, effectively motivating children to exercise.
Researchers have created a fireproof solid electrolyte for lithium-ion batteries that can function well even when exposed to flames. The new material provides an energy density and performance comparable to conventional lithium-ion batteries while being significantly lighter.
Researchers discovered bumblebees use two modes of flight to optimize energy usage, including the 'economy mode' that allows heavier loads with minimal extra flapping frequency. This behavioral choice reveals flexibility in bee behavior and challenges previous assumptions about insect physiology.
Physically active older adults experience reduced risks of early death, breast and prostate cancer, fractures, and dementia. Physical activity also promotes healthier ageing trajectories, better quality of life, and improved cognitive functioning.
Researchers at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center have made significant progress in understanding the mitochondrial genome and its role in cancer. The study found that hyper-mutated cases in kidney, colorectal, and thyroid cancers suggest oncogenic impact with signaling pathway activation.
A community health worker program in Philadelphia reduced hospital admissions by 38% and saved Medicaid $1.4 million annually, resulting in a $2.47 return on investment for every $1 spent. The program's success was demonstrated through a randomized controlled trial, improving quality of care and patient outcomes.
Researchers use liquid secondary ion mass spectrometry to monitor chemical reactions in battery interface, revealing key findings on SEI formation and its impact on battery performance. Understanding the chemistry of the solid-electrolyte-interphase (SEI) holds the key to unlocking future better batteries.
Researchers at Oxford University have found a protein called Plexin D1 that detects disturbances in blood flow and triggers inflammation and plaque formation, leading to serious health problems. The discovery offers new hope for developing treatments to block plaques before they form.
A recent study published in Geriatrics & Gerontology International found that cancer patients with dementia were less likely to achieve a good death compared to those without. The study's authors emphasize the importance of enhancing end-of-life care discussions and improving symptom management for these patients.
A new study by ISGlobal found that nearly half of all childhood asthma cases in Barcelona are attributable to air pollution. The study highlights the impact of air pollution on socioeconomic groups, particularly the less disadvantaged children.
A global study of 18,541 women in 40 countries found that 71% are unhappy with their breast size, with 48% wanting larger breasts and 29% satisfied. The study also linked breast size dissatisfaction to poorer psychological well-being, lower self-esteem, and reduced breast cancer awareness.
High self-control individuals experience food as tastier and more satisfying when touching food directly with their hands, eating more of it. Direct touch triggers an enhanced sensory response, influencing how people evaluate food. This effect persists even when self-control is primed or manipulated.
A new study found that immune system composition changes significantly during early childhood, with anaemia potentially reducing vaccine responses in low-income countries. The research, published in Science Translational Medicine, analyzed blood samples from children in Mozambique and Tanzania.
An international team of astronomers has discovered an unusual monster galaxy called XMM-2599, which formed most of its stars in a huge frenzy when the universe was less than 1 billion years old. The galaxy stopped forming stars and became inactive by the time the universe was only 1.8 billion years old.
Researchers have solved the structure of a protein complex that enables cyanobacteria to convert weak sunlight into usable energy, giving them an adaptive advantage over other organisms. The discovery could lead to the development of crops that thrive under low-light conditions, increasing crop yields and sustainability.
The white-lipped peccary population in Central America has declined by up to 87%, with current IUCN estimates severely underestimating the actual decline. The species plays a critical ecological role and is highly vulnerable to human influence and forest loss.
Researchers developed a regioselective bay-functionalization method to synthesize PDI-based acceptor materials. This approach lifts the LUMO level, reducing energy offset for charge separation and non-radiative recombination loss in organic solar cells.
Researchers have identified a link between the nervous system and immune system in Parkinson's disease, finding that genes like Parkin and PACRG protect nerve cells from cell death. These proteins regulate a signalling pathway that also plays a role in innate immunity, which prevents bacterial infections.
A recent study by Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center found that socioeconomic status, uninsured rates, and primary care physician supply are key factors contributing to higher US rural mortality rates. The study suggests that rural residency itself is not a negative factor in mortality rates.
A new study highlights the need for systematic surveys and novel data collection methods to assess poaching's impact on biodiversity in forested areas. The research provides critical information for protecting rare species in landscapes with severe defaunation.
Tropical Cyclone Francisco formed on Feb 5, 2020, with powerful thunderstorms and shallow banding wrapping into the center. The storm is forecast to intensify slightly before weakening over the next day and a half, moving southeastward.
Researchers at New York University have sequenced the genome of two basmati rice varieties, including one with improved drought tolerance and resistance to bacterial disease. The study provides insights into the evolutionary history of basmati rice and its unique genetic traits.
Researchers studied prehistoric oyster shells to understand the decline of colossal oysters in Florida's northern Gulf Coast. They found a massive 2.6 inch decrease in maximum size, shorter lifespan, and slower growth rate compared to their ancestors.
The CD19 CAR NK-cell therapy achieved a 73% response rate in patients with relapsed or refractory non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), with no major toxicities reported. The treatment was administered in an outpatient setting, and responses were evident within one month following infusion.
The CHICA system, developed by Regenstrief Institute and IU School of Medicine, increased autism screening rates from zero to 100% at 24 months of age. The computerized decision support tool improved health inequities by automating the screening process, making it more accessible for underrepresented racial and ethnic minorities.
A new study suggests that targeting Hsp47 could block cancer cell-platelet interaction and inhibit metastasis in triple-negative breast cancer patients. The protein is often amplified in the genes of metastatic breast cancer tissue, potentially serving as a biomarker for metastasis.
Research by Virginia Tech scientists found that tiny titanium oxide nanoparticles in coal smog and ash can cause lung damage in mice after a single exposure. The particles trigger an immune response, leading to macrophage death and lung failure.
A fungal pathogen, Cryptococcus neoformans, has been found to use an enzyme called chitosan deacetylase to alter its cell wall structure, making it invisible to the human immune system. Researchers have identified a new chitosan deacetylase that is crucial for the fungus's ability to evade detection.
Researchers have identified new genetic drivers of cancer in non-coding regions of the genome, finding that many cancers are driven by mutations in these areas. The study confirmed previously reported drivers and invalidated others, while also identifying novel putative driver rearrangements near genes called AKR1C.
Boston College biologist Emrah Altindis received a $300,000 grant from the G. Harold and Leila Y. Mathers Foundation to explore the role of gut microbes and viruses in triggering Type 1 diabetes. The research aims to understand molecular mimicry as a potential cause of the autoimmune disease.
Researchers have re-engineered a plant-derived compound to reduce morphine-seeking behaviors in mice, preventing relapse to opioid addiction. The new molecule inhibits a protein receptor involved in heroin dependence and prevents stress-induced relapse.
A UK patient database analysis found tramadol increases hip fracture risk by up to 1.5 new cases per 1000 person-years, compared to other pain medications. The study highlights the need for tramadol's fracture risk to be considered in clinical practice and treatment guidelines.
A new study found that Raise Your Resilience program, focusing on gratitude and positive attitude toward aging, increased resilience and wisdom among seniors. The program, delivered by non-licensed staff, reduced daily stress and improved overall well-being in senior housing communities.
Researchers found that ocean surface temperatures were more important than solar radiation in driving rainfall in the region. This discovery provides context for the development of tropical rainforest ecosystems in Central America and sheds light on the impacts of climate change on ancient civilizations.
Astronomers will use transmission spectroscopy and phase curves to observe the atmospheres of seven rocky planets in the TRAPPIST-1 system. The goal is to determine if these planets have atmospheres and what they're made of, which could help find out if life as we know it could survive on these distant worlds.
Researchers charted immune system development in sub-Saharan African children to improve vaccine efficacy. Their findings suggest that a child's age, location, and health status influence their immune response to vaccines.
A large dataset of daily resting heart rates from wearables reveals significant individual variations, accounting for less than 10% of variation between people. The analysis also identifies seasonal trends and brief periods of abnormal heart rate.
Researchers used new technology to analyze the self-assembling gateway structure within lithium-ion batteries, revealing its composition and chemical make-up. The study aims to create more energetic, longer-lasting, and safer batteries.
A recent study cataloged genetic fingerprints of DNA-damaging processes driving cancer development, providing clues on how each cancer developed. The research will help understand cancer causes, inform prevention strategies, and signpost new directions for diagnosis and treatments.
Researchers have completed the most comprehensive study of whole cancer genomes to date, revealing key mutations driving cancer growth. The atlas provides a solid foundation for understanding which genes are damaged in each cancer type.
A study of 677 participants found higher abdominal fat was associated with lower scores on memory and language tasks. Visceral adiposity may impact cognitive decline in older patients with diabetes, emphasizing the importance of targeted interventions.
Physicists at Vienna University of Technology have discovered a new type of quasi-particle called the pi-ton, which consists of two electrons and two holes. The pi-ton is created by absorbing a photon and decays into another photon, exhibiting properties similar to those of particles.
Researchers at Purdue University developed a portable device that uses bioluminescence to detect harmful E. coli in food samples. The device combines a silicon photomultiplier (SiPM) with smartphones and laptops for on-site testing, allowing for faster detection and action against foodborne illnesses.
A vaccine clinical trial for pregnant women with malaria has shown promising results, demonstrating safety and an appropriate immune response. The PRIMVAC vaccine was found to be well-tolerated and induced antibodies capable of recognizing the Plasmodium falciparum parasite.
Researchers at Argonne and Washington University have discovered an engineered version of a protein complex that enables the switch between two possible electron transfer pathways, opening up new opportunities for designing more efficient light-driven biochemical reactions. This breakthrough has significant implications for improving h...
Researchers developed a concept to understand correlations between element selection, theoretical properties, and measurable parameters. This enables quick identification of promising candidates and optimisation of element proportions.
A team of researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that when particles are wet and dry, thin solid bridges formed between larger clumps increase aggregates' stability. The size of particles plays a crucial role in determining how strongly they stick together.
Researchers developed retina-inspired carbon nitride-based photonic synapses to selectively detect UV light with low energy consumption. The smart systems can modulate exposure to UV rays, making them suitable for applications such as smart windows, glasses, and sensors.
Exposure to pesticide atrazine alters wasps' gut microbiome, conferring resistance that is inherited across successive generations. The altered microbiome also increases tolerance to other pesticides like glyphosate.
Researchers mapped 102 new autism genes in a major international study, revealing new insights into the disorder's biology. The findings could lead to earlier diagnoses and more precise treatments for individuals with autism.
Researchers at Brown University have made significant progress in developing a molecular data storage system, storing over 200 kilobytes of data in custom-synthesized small molecules. The team has shown that this approach has potential advantages over traditional methods, including scalability and higher storage capacity.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed a new method for mapping out blood vessels before surgery to minimize the risk of complications in single breast reconstruction. The team found that this approach reduced fat necrosis by 2.7% compared to traditional methods, resulting in improved outcomes and breast shapes.
Rutgers engineers create tiny needles inspired by parasites using 4D printing, achieving stronger tissue adhesion and more stable drug delivery. The microneedle outperforms previously reported examples, offering a potential solution to painful injections.
Researchers found that pregnant women in poor countries with lower access to education and employment are more likely to experience stillbirths. The study mapped global patterns of stillbirth rates and identified 37 countries with high rates, including Nigeria and Pakistan.
A new study reveals that people with neurological disorders have a 75% higher suicide rate than those without such disorders. The study found that severe neurological diseases like ALS and Huntington's disease are associated with particularly high risks of suicide.
When provided with a reliable shrimp dinner, cuttlefish eat fewer crabs during the day, showcasing selective foraging behavior. They adapt quickly to changes in their environment by leveraging past experiences and adjusting their strategy accordingly.
Scientists at U-M identified distinct excitatory neurons in the retrosplenial cortex, which can continuously encode direction-related information over long durations. These low rheobase neurons are ideal for navigation, providing persistent sense of direction that complements other brain signals.
A recent study published in Blood Advances eliminates BCL-W as a potential therapeutic target for B cell lymphomas. The research team used gene editing technology and demonstrated that human B cell lymphoma cell lines can survive without BCL-W, contradicting earlier speculation about its role in cancer survival.
Researchers found that significantly reducing dietary methionine slows the progression of inflammatory and autoimmune disorders like multiple sclerosis. Methionine fuels T cells, which can cause inflammation and damage if it lingers.