A study by York University researchers found that the brain's representation of the back and palm of the hand are different. The perceived width of the back of the hand changes depending on its orientation, but the palm's size is accurately judged.
Researchers found that ancient horse body sizes shrunk over time due to faster reproduction rates and shorter lifespans. In contrast, big tapir ancestors grew larger as they lived longer and had more resources for reproduction. The study provides new insights into mammal evolution using exceptionally preserved fossils from Germany.
A new study published in Telemedicine and e-Health highlights the effectiveness of telehealth in reducing depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms among COVID-19 patients. The study emphasizes the importance of mental health support, especially via telehealth, to maintain psychological well-being during the pandemic.
Researchers identified 497 genes expressed in resistant mice and 22 genes in susceptible mice, showing the development of disease depends on host genetics. The study aims to develop biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment of leishmaniasis.
A new global guideline aims to reduce post-surgical deaths by improving practice in surgery, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The guideline recommends nine essential steps to prevent Surgical Site Infections (SSIs), which can significantly improve patient outcomes.
A retrospective study of 12 patients with severe COVID-19 found that lying face down improved lung function and reduced the need for high positive pressure. Prone positioning was associated with increased lung recruitability, reducing harm to patients.
A recent survey of NYC residents found that nearly 3 in 10 reported losing their jobs due to coronavirus. Additionally, 80% experienced reduced ability to get food they need, and two-thirds lost social connections. The findings highlight disproportionate impacts on Hispanics, lower-income city residents, and middle-aged respondents.
Researchers developed a recipe for creating ideal hybrid memristive-CMOS neuromorphic computing systems, exploiting the advantages of low-precision, noisy, and variable neurons. This work aims to enable compact and efficient real-time processing for applications such as bio-signal processing and brain-machine interfaces.
Sandia's Resilient Energy Systems campaign aims to defend large electrical utility systems against cyberhacks, electromagnetic disturbances, and natural disasters. The Assured Survivability and Agility with Pulsed Power research campaign explores technologies to simulate nuclear explosions without actual tests, aiming to maintain the U...
Researchers at Linköping University have developed a soft and stretchable organic thermoelectric module that can harvest energy from body heat. The breakthrough was made possible by a new composite material with high electrical conductivity and good thermoelectric properties.
A new study models the life cycle of cataclysmic binaries, confirming that observable novae are just a small fraction of these systems. The research shows that most binaries spend 90% of their lifetimes in a detached state, waiting to be detected.
The new monograph presents a total of 2,999 valid extant species belonging to 82 genera and features extensive colour illustrations. The publication provides detailed species distributions, host-parasitoid associations, and summary of available DNA barcodes, offering a comprehensive reference for researchers and biocontrol practitioners.
A study of Southeastern US patients found that living far from a transplant center did not affect referral and evaluation initiation. Key findings indicate that other factors like travel time or transportation options may have a larger impact.
Researchers from UNIGE used a database of over 100,000 people to study the relationship between physical and cognitive abilities after 50 years of age. They found that cognitive decline precedes physical activity, suggesting prioritizing brain exercise may slow down an inevitable decline.
A national study found that most American children and adolescents still have poorly quality diets, with significant disparities based on socioeconomic status. Despite improvements in sugary beverage consumption and whole grain intake, kids' diets are still lacking in essential nutrients.
A new system uses AI to root out political memes and disinformation on social media platforms, highlighting the threat of coordinated campaigns to incite violence and manipulate elections. The project aims to flag manipulated content in real-time to prevent harm.
The PETA International Science Consortium Ltd. has contributed to the development of EpiAlveolar, a human cell-based alveolar model that can simulate the effects of inhaling different substances on the human lung. This breakthrough technology allows for the testing of chemicals and other respirable materials without animal testing.
The National Association of Science Writers (NASW) is conducting a survey to gather data about reporters' experiences seeking information on the COVID-19 pandemic. The organization aims to increase transparency about information access and facilitate the free flow of science news during this critical period.
Researchers used eDNA metabarcoding to detect biodiversity in two regions of Western Australia, finding that bulk arthropods and animal droppings detected the most species. The study suggests that eDNA can be a fast and accurate tool for biomonitoring, but careful surveys are needed to avoid contamination from outside organisms.
Researchers at University of Illinois and Mie University discover salt-loving bacteria secret a peptide that rapidly kills lung cells, leading to acute exacerbation. The finding offers a potential new target for treating pulmonary fibrosis, a disease affecting millions worldwide.
A genetic study by the University of Trento identified a crucial molecule (Wnt inhibitory factor 1, Wif1) in the correct composition of habenula neurons and their connectivity. This discovery may provide new insights into the causes of neurological disorders like autism.
A Drexel University study found that using broad diagnostic terms like 'autoimmune disease' alongside narrow ones helps patients communicate their experiences. This broad category simplifies explanation to family, friends, and clinicians, even with changing diagnoses.
A new study from Duke and Vanderbilt University psychologists found that older people are generally more emotionally stable and better able to resist temptations in their daily lives. The researchers surveyed 123 participants aged 20-80 and found that age is a stronger predictor of the ability to resist temptation than emotional state.
Researchers at Skoltech discovered that non-invasive magnetic stimulation of the brain can enhance human working memory. The effects of magnetic stimulation weaken as the brain works on a cognitive task under stimulation. Cognitive activity can even reduce the efficiency of TMS, suggesting new protocols may be needed for optimal results.
VIDO-InterVac will receive $12 million in federal funding to construct a pilot-scale vaccine manufacturing facility and $11.3 million for continued operational funding, enabling the development of a human vaccine for COVID-19.
Researchers analyzed data from nearly 5,000 adults and found that taking more steps was associated with a reduced risk of death. Higher step intensity also showed a significant association with lower mortality rates, suggesting that stepping is a crucial factor in overall health.
Researchers at the University of Illinois created a crumpled graphene sensor that detects ultra-low concentrations of disease markers in blood or serum, improving sensitivity ten thousand times over current designs. This breakthrough enables rapid diagnosis and could lead to portable, handheld devices for monitoring various biomarkers.
The COVID-19 pandemic exposes vulnerable populations in humanitarian crises to increased risk due to lack of access to basic needs like healthcare and hygiene facilities. Researchers call on governments and international organizations to develop evidence-based approaches to combat respiratory viruses.
Researchers at NIMS developed a solid material that slowly releases hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and nitric oxide (NO), which can induce physiologically favorable effects. This material will facilitate the medical use of these gases, overcoming storage and concentration difficulties.
Researchers at University of Limerick's Bernal Institute have helped discover a molecule that can switch between three distinct states, paving the way for low-energy data storage and processing. This breakthrough could have a major impact on the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications.
Professor Adrian Bejan explains how the physics of spreading and growth can lead to economic downturns, but also highlights the potential for innovation and creativity to drive new growth and prosperity.
Engineers have developed a method to predict which mutations will occur in people, making it easier to create effective pharmaceuticals. The researchers used algorithms similar to those used in chemical physics to model how evolution works and found that biased random events play a big part in the evolution of resistance in leukemia.
Astronomer Mark Loeffler recreates interstellar space conditions to study homonuclear molecules in ice form. The James Webb Space Telescope will help detect these molecules, allowing scientists to better understand molecular cloud composition and its role in planetary system formation.
Researchers found that rats prioritize providing food assistance to those in need, as indicated by the 'smell of hunger'. Seven volatile organic chemicals differed significantly between hungry and satiated rats, serving as a reliable cue for reciprocal cooperation.
A new study published in Scientific Reports found that cannabidiol (CBD) enhances the effect of antibiotics against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, a major human pathogen. The combination of CBD and antibiotics showed a more powerful effect than using antibiotics alone, reducing the need for antibiotics to achieve the same outcome.
Bacteria form intricate starburst-like patterns as they grow on soft substrates, with wrinkles forming at the edges and propagating toward the center. The researchers developed a chemo-mechanical model to predict where wrinkles would form, corresponding well with experimental measurements.
A new test measures expressive language skills in individuals with Fragile X syndrome, helping increase participation in clinical studies aimed at improving intellectual and cognitive functioning. The test's reliability and validity were demonstrated through consistent scores across multiple administrations.
Infections are responsible for one in five childhood deaths in England and Wales, with respiratory infections leading the way. The proportion of deaths caused by infections has declined, but not among infants and young children, who saw a significant increase in cases.
New research measures cloud changes caused by ship pollution, revealing a measurable regional impact on global temperatures. The study found that globally, cloud changes due to industrial pollution block 1 Watt of solar energy per square meter.
A team of biologists and engineers used computer simulation to explore the core brain-body question of how different-sized limbs and muscles perform identical fine-motor tasks. They found that sensory feedback is crucial for controlling body movement, particularly in electric fish.
A new study published in Nature Ecology and Evolution found that plants and animals share similar patterns of niche evolution in response to climate change. The research analyzed climatic data from 952 plant species and 1,135 vertebrate species, revealing that both groups have a narrow breadth of tolerated environmental conditions.
The new coarse-grained model explains how seasonal changes in rainfall, solar radiation, and vegetation conditions affect surface urban heat islands at a city-wide scale. It provides general insights for city planners and scientists to design heat mitigation strategies.
A new study found that China's water use has decelerated since the 1980s due to the adoption of efficient irrigation techniques and industrial water recycling technologies. However, uncertainties remain due to land institution transitions, urbanization, and potential increased water use in intensive farming and industrial sectors.
Researchers found that creating hydrogels at room temperature or below results in more robust materials. The findings could improve the 3D printing of biomaterials and enhance their performance in biomedical applications.
A new study found that taking higher daily step counts is associated with a lower risk of death from all causes. The study tracked over 4,800 U.S. adults and found that those who took 8,000 steps per day had a 51% lower risk compared to those who took 4,000 steps.
Researchers propose a new method for measuring large areas by synchronizing chaotic oscillators, enabling accurate and robust measurements without requiring individual sensor interrogation. The approach allows for spatial averaging and harvesting information from nodes through gentle stimulation with an exciter signal.
New research from Rice University found that Barack Obama's 2008 presidential election improved the mental health of black men, with an average decrease in poor mental health days from four to three. However, this benefit did not extend to black women, who reported a slight increase in mental health problems following the election.
Researchers found strikingly high molybdenum, uranium, and rhenium concentrations in drill cores from shungite rocks, suggesting elevated oxygen levels at the time of their deposition. The discovery contradicts prevailing models of Earth's carbon and oxygen cycles and has implications for understanding the evolution of complex life.
A new framework has been developed to share clinical data for research and AI algorithm development, prioritizing patient privacy and ethical standards. The framework supports the release of de-identified and aggregated data, with safeguards in place to protect patient identity.
Kyoto University scientists develop a device that mimics the movement of tears and blinking eyes, allowing for more accurate testing of ophthalmic drugs. The device shows promise in increasing filament production in corneal cells, potentially leading to improved ocular drug development.
The study analyzed national survey data to estimate overall diet quality among US children and teens from 1999 to 2016. Researchers found a significant improvement in dietary habits, with reduced consumption of unhealthy foods and increased intake of fruits and vegetables.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have successfully rejuvenated old human cells using stem cell technology, rewinding molecular hallmarks of aging and rendering treated cells nearly indistinguishable from their younger counterparts. The study found that exposure to specific proteins, known as Yamanaka factors, can i...
A study of 101 wild mammal species found that females lived 18% longer than males for over 60% of the species, with a similar gap in humans. The researchers suggest complex interactions between environmental conditions and sex-specific costs of reproduction may contribute to this phenomenon.
Scientists have created a compatible semiconductor laser made of germanium and tin, with efficiency comparable to conventional GaAs semiconductor lasers on Si. The new laser can be manufactured during the CMOS production process, reducing waste heat and enabling continuous operation.
A new study co-led by a Cornell researcher found that individuals who recognize similarities between people they know and those depicted in the media are more likely to believe common rape myths. Media literacy education could help raise awareness about sexual violence and improve prevention programs on college campuses.
Researchers at six universities, including UT Austin, are launching a partnership to turn AI 'black boxes' into human-understandable computer code. This will enable solving hitherto unsolvable problems in fields like drug design and cognitive science.
Researchers from the University of Münster have developed a novel approach to allyl functionalization using radical chemistry, generating π-allylpalladium complexes through visible light activation. The method has been shown to be highly selective and sustainable, with over 60 examples demonstrating its utility in various applications.
A new FSU study suggests that competition for mates leads to increased risk-taking and aggression in men, but also reveals a lesser-known female response: settling down quickly to avoid competition. The study found that when women outnumber men, they become more open to casual relationships and less likely to get married.
Researchers at MDC found that mice detect warmth and cooling with the same acuity as humans, relying on a population of neurons increasing activity during warming. Blocking neural pathways associated with warming reveals perception is diminished but not gone.
A national poll reveals that nearly all older Americans support adding a dental benefit to the Medicare program, with 93% favoring inclusion in traditional Medicare. The poll also finds that cost plays a significant role in dental decisions, with one in five respondents delaying or forgoing dental care due to financial constraints.