Researchers from Incheon National University developed two new ANFIS-based models to estimate photovoltaic power generation ahead of time by up to a full day. The hybrid algorithms combined traditional ANFIS with particle swarm optimization methods, outperforming other models in predicting solar system values.
A new study reveals that planetary shields can buckle under intense stellar winds from dying stars, making it difficult for life to survive. Planets with weak magnetic fields are particularly vulnerable, while those with stronger fields may be able to withstand the effects.
Researchers discovered APA's function in allowing certain mRNAs to reach specific sites of protein synthesis, shedding light on mRNA metabolism. APA impacts the connection between mRNAs and the endoplasmic reticulum, enabling signaling proteins to be encoded in specific cellular locations.
A new neural model can detect 'inappropriateness' in chatbot messages, which are defined as content that may harm the reputation of the speaker's company without being toxic. The study provides a large collection of labeled datasets for further research and has been made publicly available.
The study found that medications prescribed for children dropped by more than a quarter, with steep declines in infection-related medicines like antibiotics and cough-and-cold drugs. Chronic disease drug prescriptions also declined, but no change was observed in antidepressant prescriptions.
The newly launched NEID spectrometer will measure the minute gravitational tug of planets on their host stars, enabling the detection of rocky planets and characterization of exoplanetary atmospheres. By utilizing this technology, scientists aim to push the boundaries for searching smaller exoplanets and probing beyond past challenges.
Researchers at EPFL Brain Mind Institute discovered that minis, miniature release events of neurotransmitters, play a crucial role in maintaining healthy synapses. Increasing the frequency of minis kept synapses intact and preserved motor ability in middle-aged fruit flies.
Researchers found that alphaCT1 molecule improves scar appearance by influencing fibroblast behavior, causing them to stretch and change direction. This can lead to more pliable tissue, reducing scarring in surgical procedures. The findings have potential to revolutionize plastic surgery and advance wound healing treatments.
Scientists have made a breakthrough in understanding the behavior of highly reactive chemical compounds by identifying their binding preferences. This knowledge allows for targeted syntheses and binding of hazardous chemicals, revolutionizing the field of chemistry.
A leading nano-technologist argues that there are no excuses left to justify the use of fossil fuels. Significant innovations in advanced batteries and energy storage technologies are needed to meet the goal of a carbon net-zero planet by 2050.
A large study found no link between moderate coffee consumption and arrhythmia, with a 3% lower risk observed among participants. The researchers suggest coffee's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may play a role in reducing arrhythmia risk.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have found that COVID-19 can induce a strong immune response in patients, contributing to kidney injury. Mitochondrial dysfunction is also commonly found in kidney injury related to COVID-19, suggesting it may be a potential target for therapies.
The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) has partnered with the International Vaccine Institute (IVI) to conduct clinical trials of Sinopharm's BBIBP-CorV vaccine in African populations. The ECOVA programme aims to generate data on vaccine efficacy and safety against variants of concern, enabling expanded access to va...
Researchers discovered that AML cells regulate mutant IDH2 activity through a master regulator, FLT3, to control 2-HG production. This understanding allows for better treatment options with current IDH2-targeting medications.
Andrea Alù, founding director of Photonics Initiative at CUNY ASRC, received the world's largest unrestricted prize for early-career scientists. His research discoveries in materials science and physics have brought about advances in electromagnetics, nano-optics, and acoustics with potential applications in various fields.
A new MIT study estimates that disposable N95 masks generate up to 84 million kilograms of waste during the first six months of a pandemic, equivalent to 252 Boeing 747 airplanes. Reusable silicone masks could reduce this waste by 80-90%.
A new study from Northwestern University found that each additional pre-pregnancy cardiovascular risk factor increases the likelihood of pregnancy complications. Women with multiple risk factors are more likely to experience adverse outcomes such as maternal ICU admission, preterm birth, low birthweight, and fetal death.
Researchers at Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg created a new material by combining barium titanate, strontium titanate, and calcium titanate in a lattice. The resulting ferroelectric-paraelectric superlattice significantly enhances the photovoltaic effect, producing up to 1,000 times more power than pure barium titanate.
A hadrosaur, known as Bonapartesaurus rionegrensis, was found to have a tumor on its foot and two fractures in its tail. Despite these severe injuries, the dinosaur managed to survive for some time before its death, possibly due to infections or further trauma.
A team of chemists from Ruđer Bošković Institute developed a new Raman spectroscopy method for uninterrupted monitoring of solid-state milling reactions. This enables deeper insights into reaction mechanisms and the formation of newly formed products, crucial for understanding mechanochemical synthesis.
A large study of over 18 million pregnancies has found a strong relationship between cardiovascular risk factors and poor pregnancy outcomes. Women with multiple pre-pregnancy risk factors, such as obesity and hypertension, were more likely to experience complications like ICU admission, preterm birth, and fetal death.
Researchers reconstructed full-frequency precipitation variability in the Asian Summer Monsoon using a 6,700-year tree-ring stable isotope chronology. The data suggests a long-term decreasing trend and several abrupt climate change events, including a drought regime from ~1,675-1,185 BCE.
The SuperBIT telescope will make its operational debut in April, offering high-resolution images rivalling those of the Hubble Space Telescope. The instrument will test whether dark matter slows down during collisions, a key signature predicted by theories explaining recent muon observations.
BCIs have the potential to profoundly shape human experience and sense of self, but also raise concerns about intellectual property, emotional data privacy, and exacerbating social inequalities. Global policymakers must intervene to prevent misuse and ensure equal access to neurotech.
A study published in Pediatrics found that healthcare providers rarely discuss sexual health with adolescents, despite their importance for preventing unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. The researchers identified gaps between parent and adolescent perceptions of the need for these discussions.
A new study successfully recovered DNA from folded duct tape submerged in ocean water for up to 2 weeks, providing a complete short tandem repeat profile. The researchers found that the durability and adhesive nature of duct tape protected cellular material on its surface.
A study led by D. Ross Camidge found that MET amplification drives a rare subtype of non-small cell lung cancer, which responded to crizotinib therapy. The research also highlights the importance of MET amplification testing and therapies for this unique patient population.
Researchers followed 484 patients with moderate-to-severe TBI and found that among those in a vegetative state, 1 in 4 regained orientation within 12 months. This challenges early predictions of poor outcome and highlights the importance of considering long-term recovery possibilities.
A study by KIT researchers found that stopping further expansion of wind energy use in scenic areas could increase power generation costs by up to 7 cents per kilowatt hour and CO2 emissions by up to 200 grams per kilowatt hour. This may require alternative renewable energy sources like solar or bioenergy.
A study published in Nature Communications found that people with limited connections within a network are most effective at spreading new ideas and behaviors. Targeting small groups on the 'outer edge' of a social network can stimulate shifts in thinking, rather than relying on prominent influencers.
A new machine learning system called MOSAIKS uses satellite images to analyze hundreds of variables at a global scale, replicating reports from the US Census Bureau with reasonable accuracy. The system has enormous potential in addressing development challenges in low-income countries and understanding big-picture environmental change.
A Rutgers study suggests that newborns at risk for Type 1 diabetes due to antibiotic exposure can have their condition reversed by receiving a maternal fecal transplant. The transplant restored key gut microorganisms and brought diabetes risk back to baseline levels.
Climate change poses a pervasive threat to the availability of essential micronutrients from marine fish catches, impacting 40% of countries, including tropical nations. Fisheries micronutrient supplies are less vulnerable to overfishing, but climate change is more critical.
A 17-year study found that removing invasive barred owls arrested the population decline of northern spotted owls. Spotted owl populations stabilized in areas where barred owls were removed, while declining sharply without removals.
Researchers at the University of Innsbruck have discovered a mechanism for creating negative ions in interstellar environments. The team used an ion trap to study the formation of chemical compounds, finding that weakly bound states enhance the attachment of free electrons to linear molecules.
Researchers found that bat species native to the Northeast are highly active in newly created forest spaces, foraging for food at higher rates than in mature forests. Young forests provide an ideal environment for bats to find insects and grow, making them a crucial component of bat conservation efforts.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University developed an algorithm that can assist autonomous vehicles in navigating tight spaces and unknown driver intentions. The algorithm was trained on simulation data and found to perform better than current models in handling complex scenarios like bi-directional lane usage.
Researchers have developed an enzyme-based recycling method for polyethylene terephthalate (PET) that can reduce energy use by 69-83% and greenhouse gas emissions by 17-43%. This approach has the potential to decarbonize PET manufacturing and create new opportunities for recycling textiles and other materials made from PET.
A new study has confirmed the Xerces blue butterfly's extinction due to human activities, sparking concerns about the impact on ecosystems. The DNA analysis reveals a unique genetic sequence distinct from other butterflies, emphasizing the importance of protecting remaining species.
A scoping review found that 80% of studies on acute kidney injury did not define recovery of kidney function, highlighting the need for clear application of standard definitions. Researchers recommend transparent reporting of how the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) definition is applied.
Researchers at Medical College of Georgia discover that copper transporter ATP7A plays a crucial role in new blood vessel formation and restoring blood flow in ischemic cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that increasing and stabilizing ATP7A levels could lead to the development of new treatments for heart attack, peripheral art...
Scientists at Ohio State University have found viruses nearly 15,000 years old in Tibetan glacier ice, including four previously known and 28 novel viruses. The discovery sheds light on virus evolution and helps understand how microbes and viruses respond to climate change.
A scoping review of COVID-19 pandemic studies found individuals with chronic physical health conditions were more likely to experience anxiety, depression or substance use. Targeted interventions were lacking, highlighting the need for better mental health support.
Researchers studied pregnant women infected by zika virus in two cities and found no association between prior dengue exposure and increased risk of microcephaly. High zika attack rate and first trimester infection were linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes, while pre-existing immunity to dengue was not.
A recent study by Nova Southeastern University found that schools of coral reef fish react more slowly to predators when surrounded by strangers, increasing the risk of being eaten. In contrast, familiar friends trigger a faster response, indicating trust and improved information sharing among neighboring fish.
Researchers developed a new risk equation using 6 routinely available patient parameters to estimate the risk of CKD patients progressing to ESKD requiring KRT. The 6-variable risk score achieved high predictive performance and good calibration in validation cohorts.
A team of researchers at the University of Kansas discovered that soil microbes facilitate heterosis, also known as hybrid vigor, in hybrid corn. In most cases, heterosis is restored by inoculation with a simple community of seven bacterial strains under sterile conditions.
Researchers at UMD developed a supplement that improves pig muscle growth, which could lead to increased sustainability in the pork industry. The study also explored potential applications in human health, including improved immune function and reduced inflammation.
Routine anaesthetic procedures do not generate aerosols, contradicting previous thought. The study refocuses on ward staff exposed to coughing patients and high-grade PPE needs reassessment.
Researchers develop a one-pot process to synthesize polyacrylates and polymethacrylates from biobased materials, minimizing environmental impact. The new method reduces the E-factor by three quarters, making it more sustainable than traditional plastic production.
Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology synthesized new Mn4+-activated red phosphors with high photoluminescence intensity, revealing the relationship between crystal structure and sintering temperature. The findings have important implications for the development of high-color-rendering-index materials for LED applications.
The Save Our Seas Foundation has awarded 61 grants in 2021, with recipients spanning seven continents and focusing on shark, ray, and sawfish conservation. The grants support innovative projects using cutting-edge technology, citizen science, and local knowledge to address pressing ocean conservation crises.
A recent study found that tomato fruits can communicate with the rest of the plant through electrical signals, warning it of caterpillar attacks. This phenomenon may allow for early detection of infestations and more targeted control measures.
Researchers identified effective strategies for improving referral systems and accessing pediatric mental health care for low-income families. A key finding is that a warm handoff between primary care physicians and mental health providers can build trust and lead to successful outcomes.
Researchers used 3D scanning to study shark intestines, discovering that spiral-shaped organs slow food movement and direct it downward through the gut. This finding sheds light on how sharks process their food and retain nutrients, with implications for understanding ocean ecosystems.
A new study published by the University of Michigan found that genetic predisposition significantly affects people's reaction to the Spring forward time change. Early birds with a certain genomic profile can adjust their sleep schedule within days, while night owls may take over a week to get back on track.
The Indus basin has significant hydropower and seasonal pumped storage potential due to its high altitudes and water availability. The region's unique climate and geography make it an ideal location for long-term energy storage, with costs comparable to natural gas reinjection.
Researchers created a model and algorithm to redistribute transit resources based on commuter choices, resulting in cost reductions of 0.4%-3% system-wide. This leads to millions in rush hour savings while reducing costs for passengers and transportation providers.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have developed a framework to detect Alzheimer's disease and other forms of neurodegeneration using cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers. The ATN framework, which includes three biomarkers, has been shown to provide accurate diagnoses for patients with frontotemporal degeneration.
Researchers discovered Piezo1 selectively restrains Treg cells, limiting their potential to mitigate autoimmune neuroinflammation. Inhibiting Piezo1 could lead to new treatments for neuroinflammatory disorders like MS.
The American Board of Urology has outlined processes to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in its leadership structures. The report highlights the need for continuous efforts to improve representation, particularly in terms of gender and racial/ethnic diversity.
Researchers from Tokyo Medical and Dental University found that IgA deficiency causes substantial inflammation in the ileum of mice, making them susceptible to disease. The study reveals IgA plays a protective role in maintaining gut health by regulating microorganisms.
A study by Environmental Working Group (EWG) recommends stringent health-based exposure standards for radiofrequency radiation emitted from wireless devices. EWG suggests that children's exposure should be 200 to 400 lower than the whole-body exposure limit set by the FCC in 1996.
A study analyzing AAMC data reveals that nearly 40% of medical students rely on family or personal funds for tuition. The study also found disparities in scholarship distribution and loan reliance among high- and low-income students, raising concerns about unequal access to medical education.
A recent study on tsetse flies found that a mother's age and diet influence the health of her offspring. Female tsetse flies produce weaker offspring as they get older or feed on poor-quality blood. The study also revealed that nutritional stress affects female fertility, but not the rate of reproductive ageing.
A WVU-led team, supported by a $4.78 million NIH grant, has increased COVID-19 testing in rural West Virginia through mobile vans and community partnerships. The project has served 38 counties and administered over 2,265 tests, with a focus on communities of color.
A panel of amateur beer drinkers distinguished between five barley varieties, preferring four developed at WSU over a control. The researchers hope this method can be used to test new barley varieties and reduce reliance on hops.
Researchers at the Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory developed an ultrathin magnet that operates at room temperature, enabling high-density, compact spintronic memory devices and new tools for studying quantum physics. The discovery makes a significant breakthrough in creating 2D magnetic materials.
A computerized decision model found that mRNA vaccines (e.g., Pfizer) provide a net gain of 7.4 days in quality-adjusted life expectancy compared to not vaccinating at all, while adenovirus vector vaccines (e.g., J¼hnson ⚠ Johnson) yield virtually equivalent results.
A new study by George Washington University researchers reveals that even during COVID-19 shutdowns, marginalized neighborhoods experienced higher levels of health-harming nitrogen dioxide compared to wealthier communities. Nitrogen dioxide emissions from traffic were found to persist in these areas despite reduced passenger vehicle tr...
A study analyzed credit reports to estimate national and regional medical debt burdens, revealing a significant increase. The analysis found that Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act reduced medical debt burdens, particularly among low-income individuals.
Scientists investigate e-cigarette formation of formaldehyde, a human carcinogen, under various use patterns and devices. The study aims to identify key parameters underlying harmful substance production, informing public health and policy.
A new study develops hydrogels that release glucagon as glucose levels drop, potentially preventing severe hypoglycemic episodes. The technology aims to stabilize blood glucose levels long enough for parents to get medical attention in emergency situations.
A triphase air-liquid-solid photocatalytic system with a hydrophobic surface improves CO2 reduction efficiency by 8.8 times compared to water environments, thanks to enhanced CO2 transport and adsorption capabilities.
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated changes in healthcare, including optimized patient flow and the integration of telemedicine. The experience gained will inform future healthcare system improvements.
A Korean research team has identified the origin of bifurcated current sheets in the Earth's magnetosphere through theoretical analysis and simulations. The study reveals that these sheets naturally bifurcate during equilibration, resolving a long-standing mystery.
Elite runners exhibit 'stiffer' spring-mass systems with steeper impact angles, spending more time in the air and less on the ground. This may allow for better energy recycling and improved performance.
Scientists at Goethe University have identified 15 short segments of the SARS-CoV-2 genome that are highly conserved across various coronaviruses and perform essential regulatory functions. These segments were found to be resistant to mutations, making them promising targets for developing new drugs against SARS-CoV-2.
Researchers found that COVID-19 vaccines are more than 95% effective in preventing confirmed infection. The study also revealed significant disparities among different age groups and comorbidities, with higher risks observed among older adults and those with underlying health conditions. Additionally, a separate cohort study showed tha...
A new study estimates that 1.5 million children worldwide have experienced the death of a parent, custodial grandparent, or other relative who cared for them as a result of COVID-19. Children who have lost a parent or caregiver are at risk of profound short- and long-term adverse effects on their health, safety, and wellbeing.
A new study found that sinking organic matter influences the types of signals preserved in sediments, leading to altered geochemical signatures. This discovery can provide new insights into past local environmental conditions and modify our understanding of global biogeochemical cycling.
Researchers have discovered a twin motor modified from ATP synthase in Mycoplasma mobile, which facilitates its gliding movement. The discovery has brought closer understanding of the evolution of cells and proteins, and may lead to development of nanoscale devices and pharmaceuticals.
The Virginia Tech Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory developed a novel test for COVID-19, targeting three regions of the gene for increased accuracy. The lab has processed over 130,000 tests since April 2020, expanding public health lab testing capacity in Southwest Virginia.
A team of Russian scientists has identified the vectors of world research in creating new catalysts from halloysite, a natural aluminosilicate mineral. The development of highly active, stable and cheap catalysts could bring society closer to solving hydrogen storage and releasing problems.
A team of researchers at Washington University in St. Louis has developed artificially designed, amyloid-silk hybrid protein produced in engineered bacteria that surpasses the strength and toughness of natural spider silks, as well as steel and Kevlar.
A University of Georgia study finds that rat snakes can effectively monitor residual radioactivity in the Fukushima Exclusion Zone. The snakes' limited movement and close contact with contaminated soil allow them to accumulate high levels of radionuclides, making them a useful bioindicator.
Research found that cells with defective mitochondria and sequence changes in their genome are 'loser' cells in mouse embryos, suggesting that mitochondrial dysfunction is a common characteristic of competing cells. The study suggests that mitochondrial activity may be a key determinant of cellular fitness in various biological contexts.
A new form of collective worker resistance is unfolding in China's app-based food delivery economy, with small groups of couriers conducting 'mini-strikes' via WeChat. These strikes reflect a new form of leverage and reveal labor unrest evolving alongside shifting political, economic, and technological conditions.
A study by Cleveland Clinic found that combining a weight management program with FDA-approved anti-obesity medications leads to significant weight loss among adults with obesity. The research showed that participants who had access to the medications averaged -7.7% weight loss at 12 months, compared to -4.2% in those without medication.
Researchers at the University of Exeter have developed a novel method to measure bacterial acidity, which could help reduce antimicrobial resistance. The study found that certain bacteria can survive antibiotic treatment by maintaining an acidic pH, and the team is working on developing new antibiotics that target these persisters.
Researchers identified a method to automate identification of turbines experiencing wake effects in changing wind conditions. This allows wind farms to increase power gain by 1%-3% through standard yaw control procedure guidance.
A team of scientists at the University of Tsukuba created a computer simulation that models the Delta-Notch signaling pathway in biliary cell differentiation. The study reveals the importance of fine-grained differentiation and proper development, dependent on the rates of production of Delta ligands and Notch receptors.
A new review paper assesses heat and freshwater changes in the Indian Ocean, finding some consistent responses to anthropogenic global warming. However, observational records are still too short to distinguish natural variability from man-made changes.
A new study found that patients with employer-sponsored insurance were billed up to $219 million in total for preventive services that should be free. The study revealed that OOP charges varied widely depending on the type of service and geographic location, with rural areas more likely to be billed.
A substance from Saussurea controversa has been found to promote bone regeneration by stimulating the conversion of stem cells into osteoblasts. The calcium chelidonate was tested in vitro and in vivo, showing non-toxic effects and increased viable stem cells at low doses.
A study published in The Lancet estimates that over 1.5 million children worldwide have lost a parent, custodial grandparent, or other older relative due to COVID-19-related deaths. This phenomenon, known as orphanhood, has severe and long-lasting consequences for children's mental health and wellbeing. To address this issue, evidence-...
A new method has been developed to detect stealth coronal mass ejections (CMEs) that can wreak havoc on Earth. By analyzing slow changes in the lower corona using difference images, researchers have successfully predicted the trajectory and potential impact of four stealth CMEs.
A new diagnostic kit developed by University of Queensland vets can detect the Hendra virus in horses faster than ever before, with results available in under an hour. This rapid testing protocol has the potential to save countless lives by preventing outbreaks and reducing case fatality rates.
The FDA has approved Octagam 10% for treating adult dermatomyositis, a rare immune-mediated inflammatory disease. The approval is based on positive results of the ProDERM study, which showed significant improvement in patient response to treatment.
The coming decade will determine whether coral reefs survive, with up to 30% predicted to persist if global warming is limited to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Policymakers are called upon to address climate change, improve local conditions, and restore coral reefs through coordinated actions and innovative approaches.
New study reveals Sulawesi Babblers have diversified rapidly over a short period of time due to their understorey lifestyle, changing genetically, physically and behaviorally. The research suggests that these birds can evolve quickly even in relatively small geographic areas.
A longitudinal study of 63,540 Australian women with more than one child found that 30% of smoking mothers-to-be were able to quit for their next pregnancies, reducing the risk of early birth. Quitting smoking during pregnancy can substantially reduce the risk of future preterm births.
A meta-analysis published in Trauma & Violence & Abuse found that 81% of sexual assault survivors had significant PTSD symptoms one week after the assault and 54% after three months. The study suggests that most recovery from post-traumatic stress happens within the first three months.
Researchers at EMPA developed a mathematical system to classify cars by their dimensions, enabling easier comparison and potentially replacing expert-based classifications. This system can help standardize car classes across countries, addressing differences in definitions such as mid-size cars.