Researchers analyzed over 90,000 Alexa Skills and found significant security gaps, including the ability to publish skills under false identities and circumvent Amazon's security checks. Many Skills lack proper privacy policies, putting users' sensitive information at risk.
A 4.4 million-year-old skeleton could show how early humans moved and began to walk upright, according to new research led by a Texas A&M University professor. The study found evidence of an 'evolutionary jump' between the hand of Ardi and all later hominin hands, including that of Lucy's species.
The international research network SuperGate is developing a bridging technology that combines superconductor technology with semiconductor technology. The goal is to design high-performance superconducting circuits that can be operated as if they were based on semiconductor technologies.
A study of 3,064 tenure track faculty found that mothers experience greater reductions in short-term research productivity than fathers, contributing to the gender gap. Flexible policies, such as accessible lactation rooms and affordable childcare, may help alleviate this impact and support women in academia.
Researchers found that shorter brining times for Parmigiano Reggiano resulted in cheeses with 9% lower salt content and higher free fatty acids. The study suggests a reduced brining time could make the cheese more appealing to salt-conscious consumers.
Researchers propose new approach to planning in high fire risk areas, incorporating green technology infrastructure and Indigenous fire techniques. The study emphasizes the urgent need for strong leadership and collaboration to address climate change and transition to a renewable future.
Volcanic rock samples collected during NASA's Apollo missions hold clues to the Moon's iron core formation and magma ocean crystallization, a new analysis found. The study used SIMS technique to analyze sulfur isotope composition in Apollo 15 and 17 samples.
A new study published in Frontiers in Genetics shows that dim red light enhances the mating and egg-laying behaviors of yellow peach moths by selectively activating a genetic pathway related to olfaction. This increase in sensitivity is made possible due to the unique properties of odorant binding proteins secreted by auxiliary cells s...
A novel type of organic light-harvesting supramolecule based on DNA is synthesized to improve the quantum efficiency of electron-hole pair production. The supramolecule's 3D structure persists in both liquid and solid phases, outperforming traditional electron donors and acceptors.
Researchers have discovered a gene called ENDU-2 that can trigger tumor formation from a distance while also protecting cells under stress. In the nematode worm C. elegans, ENDU-2 helps protect germline immortality, suggesting its role in cancer development and cell survival.
Dzharatitanis kingi is a newly discovered sauropod dinosaur from Uzbekistan, the first rebbachisaurid species found in Asia. The fossil discovery sheds light on the diversity of sauropod dinosaurs in Asian continents.
Researchers are investigating the origins of a lost ocean fragment below Western US, using simulations and modeling to recreate its position and movement over time. The study aims to improve understanding of the Earth's interior behavior, earthquake forecasts, and mineral exploration.
Research from UCL found a surprising synchronicity between car accidents and violent crimes in Mexico City, revealing 'heartbeats' of the city that peak in the evening. Improving road safety could improve crime prevention and give more resources to police tackling crime.
A new study found that daily emails about tobacco chemicals and health risks increased smokers' desire to quit by almost 10%. The messages, combined with graphic images, were sufficient to stimulate quit intentions. Researchers believe this innovative strategy can inform the FDA's educational campaigns.
A new study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers argues that extreme climate forecasts can be counterproductive, leading to public distrust in climate science. The study analyzed 79 climate-caused apocalypse predictions and found that many have expired without consequence, undermining the credibility of such forecasts.
A machine learning-based model predicts the probability of lung cancer among patients with multiple pulmonary nodules, achieving high accuracy in validation cohorts. The PKU-M model also surpasses prior logistic regression-based models and a previously established AI tool in diagnosis.
Researchers at Princeton University have created a new microchip design that enables AI systems to process data closer to the edge of computing infrastructure. The innovative design reduces power consumption and latency, making AI more accessible and efficient.
Research reveals pirate attacks occur more frequently in areas with high-bycatch fishing and habitat destruction. The correlation persists even when accounting for neighboring coastal conditions.
A new study reveals that one-third of cancer survivors experienced disruptions in healthcare treatments and financial worries due to the pandemic. Cancer survivors reported feeling isolated and concerned about their health, with some unable to bring a companion to in-person appointments.
A new high-throughput biological assay technique has been developed to systematically analyze the impact of nearly 100,000 genetic variants on transcription factor binding to DNA. The study found that noncoding genetic variant rs7118999 can affect DNA binding with a transcription factor, regulating blood lipid levels in type 2 diabetes.
Research reveals that airborne dust plumes are produced by sliding blocks of dry ice each spring, which kick up sand and dust along the way. This process carves and modifies linear gullies on the slopes of a Martian sand dune.
The world's largest resource of genomic data on malaria parasite evolution and drug resistance has been released, providing benchmark data for new drugs and vaccines. The dataset includes over 7,000 malaria parasites from 28 endemic countries, offering insights into the evolutionary processes of Plasmodium falciparum.
Scientists create magnesium-based micromotors that produce hydrogen bubbles, which propel the motors and release hydrogen gas into inflamed joints. This therapy shows promise in reducing joint pain, swelling, and bone erosion in animal models of rheumatoid arthritis.
A new study investigates how hurricanes and the COVID-19 pandemic affect each other and disaster response in southern Louisiana. Community-based organizations face new challenges, including reduced financial resources and service delivery constraints due to protocols to prevent SARS-CoV-2 spread.
A new paper argues that ancestry estimation, used in forensic anthropology, is rooted in racist 'race science' and perpetuates white supremacy. The practice relies on flawed methods that have been debunked for decades.
A new theoretical study suggests that supermassive black holes could form directly from dark matter in high-density regions, contradicting current understanding of their formation. This proposal has key implications for cosmology and the early Universe, potentially explaining how supermassive black holes grew so quickly.
A systematic review of published papers on microplastics in table salt found significant variability in reported data due to differences in measurement and identification methods. The study highlights the need for standardized protocols to ensure reliable health-relevant results and accurately quantify human exposure to microplastics.
Researchers at UH Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital studied the impact of face masks on heart rate and oxygen levels. The study found that wearing a cloth or surgical mask did not impair oxygenation in healthy adults, either at rest or during physical activity.
Researchers at TU Wien have produced well-defined beams of entangled atoms using ultracold atom clouds in electromagnetic traps. The creation of controlled twin pairs has been demonstrated, allowing for new quantum experiments to be carried out with these atom pairs.
Scientists at Uppsala University have created the first 3D map of the hearing nerve, tracing fine nerve threads and vibrating auditory organ to understand how frequencies are distributed. This new knowledge can lead to more effective cochlea implant treatments for the hearing-impaired.
Researchers have found asteroid dust inside a Chicxulub impact crater, confirming the link between asteroid impacts and dinosaur extinction. The discovery seals the deal, with elevated levels of iridium and other asteroid elements matching those in geologic layers worldwide.
Researchers propose an alternating lockdown strategy to combat COVID-19, which involves partitioning the population into two groups and alternating their activities weekly. This approach isolates invisible spreaders, such as pre-symptomatic carriers, reducing viral spread and helping flatten the curve.
A recent study reveals that the soundscapes of coral reef ecosystems can recover from hurricanes like Irma in just 24-48 hours. The researchers used underwater microphones to monitor the reef's acoustic picture before and after the storm, finding that the snapping shrimp were back to pre-storm sound levels within 24 hours.
Researchers found that hospitalized COVID-19 patients with low sodium levels are twice as likely to need intubation or advanced breathing support, while those with high sodium levels are three times more likely to die. Sodium measurements can inform doctors about which patients are at high risk of deterioration and death.
A new study found that trust in scientists was strongly associated with social distancing, while trust in President Trump was linked to lower compliance rates. The analysis of over 2,000 U.S. adults revealed that consistent messaging could have led to more widespread adherence to guidelines.
Professor Gerardine Botte has received a $999,047 grant from the U.S. Department of Defense to develop an indoor COVID-19 sensor that can detect traces of SARS-CoV-2 in air. The sensor has already demonstrated fast detection capabilities in saliva and water, and the goal is to extend this technology for air collection.
A recent study estimates that delirium in older adults one year after major elective surgery results in significant healthcare costs. The study analyzed Medicare claims and clinical data to determine the financial impact of delirium on patients, providing valuable insights for clinicians and policymakers.
Risk models developed by University of Malaga researchers use artificial intelligence to forecast West Nile virus outbreaks based on environmental variables such as temperature, humidity, and river presence. The study predicts areas at high risk of outbreak in European regions.
The experiment contradicts a previous study from the late 90s, suggesting that quarks and antiquarks have a smooth asymmetry with no flip of the ratio between anti-up and anti-down quarks. The discovery has implications for understanding the proton's properties and its role in atomic structure.
Prof. Thomas H. Epps, III has been elected to the AIMBE College of Fellows for outstanding contributions to self-assembly of polymeric materials for drug delivery and gene therapy applications. He will join a group of top medical and biological engineers in the US.
Researchers found that travelers to the tropics are exposed to a wide range of superbacteria, including 83 different strains, during their trip. Daily stool samples revealed that all participants contracted superbacteria within the first week abroad, with some carrying multiple strains over time.
The JDRF, Lupus Research Alliance and National Multiple Sclerosis Society have launched a joint grant program to investigate the immune system's role in autoimmune diseases. The program aims to identify common mechanisms that cause or contribute to the development of lupus, T1D, and MS.
Scientists have developed a high-tech fluorescence microscopy technique allowing them to film cells inside the breast for the first time. This new protocol provides detailed instructions on how to capture hi-res movies of cell movement, division and cooperation in hard-to-reach regions of breast tissue.
A University of Chicago study has identified multiple targets to improve cancer therapy outcomes. By depleting Ter cells and blocking artemin signaling, researchers found enhanced control of tumor burden in mice.
Researchers discover that SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV-1 share similarities due to a recombination event involving the ACE2 receptor. The study provides evolutionary context for these viruses' behavior, enabling researchers to identify high-risk viruses and estimate their potential for human spillover.
A new study found that diabetes patients who used mobile health apps had better health outcomes, including reduced blood glucose levels and increased exercise. The app also helped regulate health behavior and reduce hospital visits and medical expenses.
A randomized clinical trial examines the effectiveness of subcutaneous semaglutide as an adjunct to intensive behavioral therapy for weight management. Semaglutide was found to lead to greater weight loss and improved body mass index compared to placebo in adults with overweight or obesity.
A team of researchers, including Graduate Center professor Stephen Chester, analyzed fossils of Purgatorius, the oldest genus in a group of early-known primates. The discovery provides insight into how life on land recovered after the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event that wiped out dinosaurs.
Scientists have developed a smart material that responds to environmental stimuli, such as mechanical pressure or stretching, and can be used to create autonomous grippers. The material's unique properties make it ideal for use in soft robots performing complex tasks or locomotion.
Researchers found that creating memorable experiences at events like Oktoberfest increases life satisfaction among attendees. This leads to increased customer loyalty, positive word-of-mouth, and brand trust.
This study analyzed US pediatric patients with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) compared to those with severe COVID-19. The findings highlighted key differences in clinical characteristics, hospital and postdischarge outcomes, and complications between the two groups.
The DOD has awarded NPS a $2.4 million grant to develop new theory and tools for understanding and preparing for future climate events that pose challenges to military operations. The project aims to advance resilience research and build tools for assessing and improving resilience across military installations.
A new research study analyzed COVID-19 antibodies in asymptomatic patients and found that only 6 individuals produced sufficient neutralizing antibodies, while others developed high antibody levels with poor neutralization capabilities.
Researchers found that species diversity in mangrove forests enhances biomass production and soil carbon storage, leading to higher carbon storage capacities. Increasing mangrove diversity through restoration and conservation projects is crucial for mitigating climate change.
Postmenopausal women who consumed high levels of plant protein had a 9% lower risk of all-cause death and a 21% lower risk of dementia-related death compared to those with the lowest intake. Higher consumption of processed red meat was associated with a higher risk of dementia.
Researchers analyzed genes in over 34,000 people with glaucoma and found 44 new genetic variants that may lead to new treatment targets. The study's findings aim to improve screening and diagnosis of glaucoma, as well as develop new treatments for this incurable eye disease.
Researchers investigated SARS-CoV-2 antibody status and subsequent nucleic acid amplification test results to understand serostatus as a predictor of reinfection. The study found that seropositive individuals had a lower risk of future infection compared to those who were not seropositive.
In a major advance, CAR T-cell therapy ide-cel has generated deep, sustained remissions in patients who had relapsed from several previous therapies. Almost 75% of participants responded to the therapy, and one-third had a complete response or disappearance of all signs of their cancer.
A new virtual reality program has been shown to reduce the physical side effects of hemodialysis in patients, such as fatigue and nausea. The program, which involves a mindfulness/meditation exercise, was found to greatly improve symptoms in patients who used it during their treatment sessions.
A recent study published in JAMA Surgery reveals that post-operative delirium has substantial public health implications, resulting in higher healthcare costs for older adults. If delirium were prevented or made less severe, it could reduce healthcare costs by $33 billion per year.