A new study from Kyoto University found that oxytocin influences eye contact in bonobos and chimpanzees differently, promoting species-specific behaviors. The hormone shifted attention more to eyes in images for bonobos, while chimps focused on mouths.
Researchers at the University of Exeter have identified a population of dormant Vibrio parahaemolyticus bacteria that are better equipped to revive when conditions improve. The study also discovered an enzyme involved in this process, which breaks down lactic acid into pyruvate, allowing the bacteria to survive for extended periods.
The study demonstrates how to harness quantum entanglement to reduce energy fluctuations and enhance the readout of information from digital memories. This breakthrough has potential applications in large databases, next-generation computers, spectroscopy, and bio-imaging.
The study found that cathodal tDCS enhances the acquisition of abstract semantics, while anodal tDCS shows more success in learning concrete concepts. The results suggest that different neural mechanisms are involved in processing abstract and concrete word meanings.
Researchers investigated COVID-19-related government-mandated closures and restrictions on mobility in Nigeria, finding associations with a surge in SARS-CoV-2 infections. The study suggests that increased mobility during these periods contributed to the spread of the virus.
A recent study published by researchers at the UConn School of Nursing found that older adults tend to report less depression and anxiety despite experiencing greater general concern about COVID-19. The study suggests that older age may offer a buffer against negative feelings brought on by the pandemic.
A flexible underwater robot developed by University of Southampton and University of Edinburgh can swim as quickly and efficiently as squid and jellyfish, thanks to resonance technology. The robot's soft exterior and lightweight design make it ideal for operating near sensitive environments.
A new study reveals that California's coastal gillnet fisheries took a greater toll on harbor porpoises than previously thought, with the population recovering dramatically since their ban. The Morro Bay stock has rebounded by seven-fold, from an estimated 570 animals in 1991 to approximately 4,200 porpoises today.
A systematic review of antidepressant effectiveness for back and osteoarthritis pain found small, insignificant benefits for some patients. The evidence suggests that antidepressants may not be a worthwhile treatment option for chronic pain, highlighting the need for large-scale, industry-free trials.
A team of scientists has developed a novel hydrogel formula based on PEGda and HMPP for 3D direct laser writing (DLW) with low threshold power using a green laser. The new formula enables the fabrication of precise microstructures with high resolution and mechanical stability, suitable for biomedical engineering applications such as wo...
Researchers found that membrane vesicles, which carry biological information between bacteria and cells, produce more info-rich bubbles in response to antibiotics. This may lead to the transmission of warning signals to neighboring cells and potentially foster antibiotic resistance.
Researchers at Duke University developed a predictive theory for tumor growth that approaches the subject from a new point of view, using thermodynamics and physical space. The results demonstrate how a tumor's growth is directly tied to its need to create greater access to flowing nutrients and conduits for removing refuse.
Researchers used data from Curiosity rover and Earth comparisons to determine temperature impact on Martian rocks, finding it was the biggest factor in weathering sediments.
Brain cells produce brief electrical impulses triggered from highly specialized regions that adapt to sensory experiences. The study found that these trigger sites shrink with increased experiences and grow larger with reduced input.
A new biomarker of insulin resistance tied to a 600 percent increase in risk of premature coronary heart disease has been discovered. Women under 55 with type-2 diabetes have a tenfold greater risk of having CHD over the next two decades, according to the study published in JAMA Cardiology.
A new approach to describing shapes uses a network representation called visibility graph, allowing for comparison and reassembly of complex shapes. The tool, GraVis, accurately quantifies shape parameters such as lobe length and cell area.
Cornell University researchers estimated the depth of Kraken Mare on Saturn's moon Titan to be at least 1,000 feet, using data from the Cassini mission. The sea is also massive, covering an area nearly as large as all five Great Lakes combined.
Researchers studied 18 men's livers after a day of eating and drinking, finding some responded by increasing fat storage while others reduced it. The study suggests that high carbohydrate consumption may protect the liver, contradicting typical associations with alcohol.
Researchers at the University of Bonn have created miniaturized optical fiber filters that are color-tunable and extremely compact. These filters have promising applications in quantum technology and sensor development, enabling efficient storage and manipulation of light energy.
A new study found a six-fold increase in idiopathic intracranial hypertension cases over 15 years, corresponding with rising obesity rates and low socioeconomic status in women. Treatment is often weight loss, while surgery may be required in rare cases.
Researchers used 'Neuropixels' probes to capture electrical signals from hundreds of neurons, revealing how visual information flows across the brain. The study found a hierarchy of neural activity, with lower areas representing simpler concepts and higher levels capturing complex ideas.
Researchers have developed a new method to improve estimations of ultimate global warming from complex climate models, relevant for accurate projections of future climate change. By adding another observable on top of traditional ones, the method reduces uncertainties in long-term calculations.
Researchers used obese Yucatan mini pigs to study airway flow during sleep apnea episodes. The study found naturally occurring sleep apnea in the pigs and that MRI scans can be used to gain new insights into airflow dynamics, with a 25% increase in airflow velocity through narrowest regions.
A study by Université de Genève found that online courses deepen inequalities between high-potential and struggling students by 5%. The research suggests that different behaviour patterns, such as preferring face-to-face classes or streaming, contribute to these disparities.
A new study by Columbia University researchers found that children but not adults report 'mean' individuals becoming nicer after severe punishment. Adults, however, believe that 'nice' individuals become less nice following incarceration. The study suggests that with age, people in the US become increasingly pessimistic about punishmen...
Boston University researchers developed a personalized procedure to selectively modulate orbitofrontal brain activity, resulting in reduced compulsive behavior. The five-day treatment showed immediate and sustained improvements, even for those with severe symptoms.
A light-weight, wirelessly controlled brain stimulator has been developed to treat cerebral infarction using wearable wireless ultrasound devices. The device significantly improved motor functions in a rat stroke model, paving the way for non-invasive neurorehabilitation therapy.
A new species of mosasaur with shark-like cutting teeth has been discovered in Morocco, highlighting the diverse range of predators that thrived in ancient seas. The discovery suggests that marine reptiles were expanding their diversity before they went extinct, contradicting previous assumptions about ecosystem decline.
Scleroderma researchers discover a connection between inflammation, metabolism, and scarring. A study found that NAD+ breakdown leads to multi-organ scarring, with CD38 playing a previously undiscovered pathogenic role.
A study by University of Groningen researchers found that older female Seychelles warblers benefit from having helpers when raising their young. The data show that social behaviour increases reproductive success for older females, compensating for age-related declines in parental care.
A small amount of gender bias in hiring decisions can result in discriminatory outcomes and costly losses for companies. According to the study, even 1% gender bias can lead to 32 additional failed hires and $2.8 million in productivity losses per year.
Scientists have created a mathematical framework to understand how termites construct intricate mounds without a plan. By analyzing the spacing and arrangement of floors and ramps, researchers have made predictions for the spontaneous formation of linear and helical ramps, shedding light on swarm intelligence.
Researchers found that COVID-19 infects the brain, leading to severe illness, even after lungs clear themselves of the virus. The study suggests that brain damage is a key factor in long-term health problems and increased risk of future diseases.
Researchers have developed a Velcro-like fastener with a microscopic mushroom design that uses softer materials and still provides strong interlocking force. This design has potential for quiet operation and can be used in various applications such as diapers, soft robotics, and grippers for robots.
Researchers have reconstructed a small Psittacosaurus dinosaur's all-purpose opening for the first time, comparing it to modern vertebrates. The cloaca displays pigmentation and features reminiscent of crocodilians and baboons, potentially indicating display and signaling functions.
A recent study published in the Oxford Review of Education found that teachers are working harder than any other occupation, with nine out of ten saying their job demands a very high level of input. The study also reveals declining job quality, including decreased influence over tasks and work-related well-being.
Researchers studied seabirds' flight performance and found that birds with larger muscle fibers flew faster despite beating their wings less frequently. They also discovered that birds with a higher number of nuclei in their muscle cells could activate more muscle fibers to power flight.
A new Yale University study finds that a lack of oleic acid in fat tissue can trigger an abnormal immune response in multiple sclerosis. Introducing oleic acids into fatty tissue increased regulatory T cells, which can help combat the disease.
Oligodendrocytes form a key part of the brain's energy supply network, working alongside astrocytes to transport energy-rich compounds to synapses. Without this network, neurons can't communicate effectively.
Researchers from Chalmers University of Technology have developed concrete guidelines for charging and operating lithium metal batteries to minimize the risk of short circuits. By optimizing charge parameters, the team aims to create safer and more efficient batteries with higher energy density.
Researchers from the University of Houston and Oregon State University have discovered that water-in-oil microemulsions formed by firefighting foam can retain high levels of PFAS in soil, making remediation difficult. This new understanding may help identify contamination sources and develop new clean-up methods.
Researchers have discovered that Maltese patients with ALS do not have flaws in the C9orf72, SOD1, TARDBP, and FUS genes, which are common in European ALS cases. Instead, a higher percentage of Maltese patients without a family history of ALS have harmful DNA mutations in rarely damaged genes.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine are developing a novel brain imaging technique to detect chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in living patients. A two-year study involving former NFL players and controls aims to identify the tau protein associated with CTE using a second-generation tau PET tracer.
Researchers have discovered that tiny bubbles in erupted lava can tell tales of big volcanic eruptions, and magnetite crystals may explain the staggering number of bubbles. Scientists used numerical models to reconcile differences between predicted and actual bubble amounts, leading to improved volcanic forecasts.
A study of 200,000 Europeans found that young people and those with preexisting mental health issues were disproportionately affected by lockdowns. The researchers emphasize the need for tailored public-health interventions to prevent long-term negative effects.
A new study by NYU School of Global Public Health finds that people with anxiety and depression are more likely to report an increase in drinking during the COVID-19 pandemic. Drinking behaviors vary by age group, with younger adults under 40 being the most likely to report increased alcohol use.
Scientists have found a way to control the behavior of Higgs modes within iron-based superconductors using laser light, opening up new possibilities for quantum sensors and high-speed computing. This discovery could lead to breakthroughs in understanding the universe's fundamental nature.
A longitudinal study in Germany found that autonomy-supportive parenting is positively associated with better child well-being and higher parental need fulfillment. This type of parenting requires parental energy but also reciprocally contributes to it.
A novel family of enzymes in butterflies produces (E)-beta-ocimene as an anti-aphrodisiac pheromone, similar to a floral attractant found in many flower scents. This independent evolutionary process highlights the convergent evolution of chemical signals across kingdoms.
A team of researchers has developed a method to synchronize X-ray and laser pulses, enabling precise measurements of Auger decay in neon gas. This breakthrough could help evade radiation damage in experiments studying exotic states of matter.
Researchers confirm COVID-19 is the primary cause of lost sense of smell in patients with respiratory infections. The disease also affects taste and other senses in the mouth, leading to prolonged discomfort for patients.
Researchers at Chung-Ang University have created a novel quantitative method to assess the safety of food, particularly for fish samples. By using fluorescent carbon nanoparticles and a protein that binds strongly to histamine, the team can accurately quantify histamine levels in fish samples with high sensitivity and specificity.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered that the gene-cutting system CRISPR-Cas9 can be used as a genetic dimmer switch, allowing scientists to develop new ways to genetically engineer cells. The long form of tracrRNA was found to repress CRISPR-related genes and protect bacteria from excessive activity.
Researchers found state shutdown orders and economic factors had a greater impact on initial unemployment claims during the first six weeks of the pandemic. State responses to COVID-19, such as closing non-essential businesses, were more influential than federal programs like CARES Act legislation.
Researchers developed a new method to classify brain tumors using RNA analysis, achieving high accuracy rates compared to traditional methods. The study found that this approach can identify patients with a worse prognosis and detect secondary glioblastomas not detected by other methods.
Researchers discovered that D1 and D2 neurons work together to perform reaching-and-grasping tasks, with D1 providing the early movement phase and D2 providing the final approach. This study sheds light on the complex mechanisms underlying motor function in the basal ganglia.
Researchers discovered a gene that shows butterflies and flowers independently evolved to make the same chemical compound for different purposes. Male butterflies use this pheromone to repulse competitors and attract females only once.
A small pilot study suggests that early administration of ivermectin can reduce viral loads and symptom duration in patients with mild COVID-19. The treatment also showed a reduced duration of certain symptoms, including loss of smell and taste.
A 66-year-old woman experienced a pseudoaneurysm and median nerve injury after radial artery puncture, leading to severe pain and swelling in the affected arm. The authors discuss causes and treatment measures for this complication of radial artery puncture.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center have successfully tested a new peptide therapy that reduces fever, protects the lungs, improves heart function, and reverses cytokine storm in mouse models with COVID-19. The treatment also prevents disease progression and has potential as a post-vaccine measure to manage severe symptoms.