The EPFL team proposes a nature-inspired approach to recycling plastics by mimicking protein assembly. This method could break down synthetic polymers into different color-coded components, similar to proteins in nature. By applying this concept, the researchers aim to develop a sustainable circular economy for plastic recycling.
Female vampire bats with close social bonds leave the roost separately but reunite when hunting, indicating a preference for cooperative foraging. The study also reveals three distinct call types used during foraging trips, including one that may help identify friends and foes.
Researchers at WVU aim to characterize autism patients' behaviors using behavior-tracking technology. They plan to use artificial intelligence to identify traits associated with ASD, which could lead to more accurate diagnoses and personalized interventions. The study also has the potential to improve early detection in young children.
Researchers at WashU Medicine and University of Pittsburgh discover that Rift Valley fever virus uses a protein linked to cholesterol metabolism to infect cells. The finding could lead to therapies preventing or reducing the virus's impact by interfering with its entry into cells.
Research at CNRS reveals that compressed cell nuclei can lead to DNA damage and accelerated aging in healthy cells. In breast tumors, this damage enables tumor cells to invade neighboring tissues with increased risk of metastasis.
Scientists propose Source-independent Radiometric Calibration (SIRC) for high-accuracy infrared remote sensing, overcoming limitations of traditional methods. SIRC requires only temperature information and modeling to implement calibration, providing a more reliable and traceable way.
Researchers from Universitat Oberta de Catalunya developed a scientific method to determine the best measures to ensure social distancing between pedestrians. European cities are found to be the fairest towards pedestrians, while US cities struggle with this balance.
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) has invested $300 million in 33 new investigators, who will focus on tackling tough questions in biology and medicine. The scientists, from 21 US institutions, will receive funding over a seven-year term to explore uncharted scientific territory.
By reading electrical signals in a bird's brain, researchers can predict specific syllables and when they will be sung. This breakthrough technology has the potential to develop vocal prostheses for humans with speech disorders.
A new study analyzes how micro (income) and macro (business cycle) conditions influence grocery shopping behavior, finding that households adjust their spending without changing budget constraints. Micro conditions primarily affect basket value, while macro conditions impact both basket value and allocation to store formats.
Researchers developed a feature selection algorithm that uses boosting to select relevant features from high-dimensional data sets. The algorithm outperforms other methods in terms of accuracy and number of features used, making it more scalable and explainable.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet in Sweden found that COVID-19 disease severity is linked to the characteristics of white blood cells called granulocytes. Combined measurements of granulocyte characteristics and widely used biomarkers can predict key clinical features such as respiratory function and multiorgan failure.
Recent genome research has led to significant progress in understanding human evolution, cancer, polygenic traits, and functional genomics. New laws and technologies are also being developed to balance privacy and public safety, enabling the use of consumer genetic data in law enforcement investigations.
Researchers have identified four molecular factors controlling the formation of suberin in plant roots, allowing for the development of more resistant plants. These modifications optimize nutrient acquisition while protecting against environmental stresses like salt and toxic elements.
New research from Shibaura Institute of Technology reveals that spark plasma sintering produces highly dense MgB2 bulks with improved mechanical and superconducting properties. The resulting samples exhibit superior strengths and high trapped field performance, making them suitable for space applications and electric machines.
Researchers developed an AI technique, pMTnet, to predict which cell surface peptides are recognized by the immune system. The algorithm shows high accuracy in identifying binding or nonbinding combinations of neoantigens and T cell receptors.
A team of scientists developed a simple-to-implement plasmonic optical fiber biosensing platform to detect estrogenic endocrine disruptors. The platform can detect EEs down to 1.5 ng L^-1 estradiol equivalent concentration, the lowest limit of detection for any estrogen receptors-based detection reported to date.
Artificial neurofiber transistors with fibrous architecture similar to neurons can form artificial neural networks. The devices mimic signal summation functionality and have been used to create a 100-synapse system achieving recognition accuracy of 88.9% via speech recognition experiments.
Researchers developed avidin-conjugated nanocellulose, enabling attachment of biotinylated molecules and promoting 3D cell culture. The material supports efficient integrin signaling and high cell viability, indicating its suitability for applications like cell differentiation and tissue engineering.
A new study found that only 2% of randomized controlled trials in primary care were contradicted over 12-17 years. The majority of trials remained stable, supporting the use of evidence-based medicine. Researchers analyzed 408 trials published from 2002 to 2005.
Researchers at Kaiser Permanente identified a blood cystatin C test as an alternative to estimate kidney function, eliminating the need for racial considerations. The study showed that this approach produces similarly accurate results and may promote equity for people of all racial and ethnic backgrounds.
A new study found that children who experienced sexual or physical abuse or neglect are more likely to die prematurely as adults. Adults who reported experiencing sexual abuse had a 2.6 times higher risk, while those who experienced physical abuse had a 1.7 times higher risk of premature death.
Scientists from UNIGE and UNIFR discovered that the brain misperceives tactile vibrations when their amplitude varies, creating an illusion. Humans are more sensitive to lower frequencies (around 250 Hz) but struggle to differentiate between higher and lower frequencies when amplitudes are not matched.
A new study suggests that extending the life of current cars can reduce CO2 emissions significantly more than replacing them with new, green vehicles. By keeping and using cars longer, the decrease in manufacturing emissions offsets additional emissions produced by existing cars.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a treatment combining casirivimab and imdevimab for patients with non-severe COVID-19 who are at highest risk of hospitalization. For severely ill patients, the recommendation is based on data showing reduced deaths and need for mechanical ventilation in seronegative patients.
A new machine vision system detects and quantifies radiation-induced defects in real-time, accelerating the development of nuclear components. The system uses a convolutional neural network to analyze electron microscope video frames, providing instant results on structural integrity.
A study analyzing online food ordering and delivery in Singapore found unhealthier eating habits during the pandemic, which continued even after lockdown measures ended. The results suggest a significant shift towards less healthy eating patterns during this time.
Researchers developed kirigami-processed cellulose nanofiber films that dramatically improve cooling functionality, reducing thermal resistance by about one-fifth. These films can be used to create new cooling devices for wearable electronics, addressing bulkiness and inflexibility issues.
Mental health professionals play a crucial role in encouraging COVID-19 vaccination by understanding individuals' thoughts and feelings about vaccination. The study highlights the importance of social experiences and direct behavior change opportunities for effective vaccination promotion.
Researchers at the Chinese Academy of Sciences have developed a chemoenzymatic system that converts CO2 into starch with an efficiency 8.5-fold higher than natural biosynthesis. This innovative technology has the potential to produce starch from CO2 on a large scale, reducing the need for cultivated land and freshwater resources.
A new study reveals that the waters off New York and New Jersey provide an essential feeding ground for humpback, fin, and minke whales. The research highlights the importance of understanding whale behavior and habitat use in coastal regions to inform management decisions and mitigate human impacts.
Research by the University of Bristol found that children born to depressed mothers are more likely to develop depressive symptoms by age 24, with scores almost three points higher than offspring of non-depressed mothers. The study highlights the importance of antenatal and postnatal depression support.
Engineers at the University of Cincinnati have developed a carbon dioxide reactor that can convert CO2 into methane, a potential fuel source for Mars. The process, known as the Sabatier reaction, could reduce fuel needs by half for astronauts returning to Earth, making it a promising solution for future Mars missions.
Researchers analyzed data from over 3,200 brain metastatic tumors and discovered that different types of cancer tend to spread to specific parts of the brain. The study's findings may help predict where a particular cancer will metastasize and inform treatment strategies.
Researchers developed a mathematical model to study the action of SARS-CoV-2, enabling the examination of individual virus particles and their spikes. This analysis can help fine-tune prevention and treatment by providing insights into viral load, spike distribution, and cell infection potential.
Pollinators contribute significantly to global food production, particularly for small-scale farmers who rely heavily on these services. The author emphasizes the need for increased support and research efforts to maintain biodiversity and improve crop yields.
Researchers have identified a new complex formed by dopamine and noradrenergic receptors that could be a therapeutic target for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and impulsivity. The α2AR-D4R complexes are associated with the manifestation of ADHD and may offer a new perspective for designing future drugs.
A new study suggests that COVID-19 may trigger Guillain-Barré syndrome in some patients, particularly those over 50 years old. Researchers analyzed data from an international cohort of Guillain-Barré syndrome patients and found a strong association between COVID-19 infection and the development of the condition.
Researchers have successfully reconstructed the atomic structure of poxvirus RNA polymerase, which can produce mRNA independently. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new antiviral drugs and a better understanding of zoonotic diseases.
A medieval Spanish individual, known as the 'Segorbe Giant,' has been analyzed using ancient DNA. The research found that he had a mix of North African and local Spanish ancestry, suggesting a complex history of migration and intermixing. This study sheds light on a dark event in medieval Spain's past.
Researchers at University of California San Diego created a high-performance all-solid-state battery using pure-silicon anode, showing safe, long-lasting, and energy-dense properties. The new battery technology offers a promising path forward for silicon anodes, which were previously limited by liquid electrolytes.
TB202-3 binds to a specific area of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein that has not been impacted by most viral mutations, making it an important candidate for clinical testing. The antibody demonstrates potency against multiple strains of COVID-19, including those with various mutations.
A Johns Hopkins Medicine research team has provided a definitive view of the biological process leading to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a dangerous inflammatory disease that can destroy a premature infant's intestinal lining. The loss of enteric glia leads to intestinal dysmotility, which is a key factor in NEC's genesis.
A new study found that schizophrenia is associated with a loss of excitation but an increase in inhibition, resulting in hallucinations. The researchers used EEG data from 107 participants to demonstrate decreased synaptic gain, which may guide pharmacological and neurostimulation treatments.
A new $3.8 million NSF EPSCoR RII Track-2 grant will enable the expansion of Future Factories Lab at the UofSC McNair Aerospace Center, investigating interactions between humans and automation in manufacturing facilities. The project aims to create a manufacturing resilience ecosystem with significant workforce development opportunities.
A new study uses a 'systems lens' to understand the interconnected health risks from human-caused changes to the climate and environment. The research found that agricultural activities, air pollution, and climate change are closely linked and require a comprehensive approach to mitigate their impacts.
Digital holography enhances non-contact, precise, and dynamic measurements for complex amplitude analysis. Common-path configurations share paths between object and reference beams, improving temporal stability.
The University of Helsinki-led research project partners with UCSF to develop new therapies targeting MYC cancer gene vulnerabilities. The goal is to create next-generation cancer drugs that selectively kill cancer cells while leaving normal cells unharmed.
Researchers have developed a new type of photodetector using MXene and GaN materials, showing improved responsivity, dark current, and noise in the blue-green light spectrum. The use of MXene-GaN van der Waals interfaces reduces defect states and improves the device's performance.
Researchers tracked 50 vampire bats, including those with social relationships, to find that they hunt together and coordinate their efforts. The study suggests that forming friendships in the roost can create more interdependence among socially bonded bats, increasing their success at obtaining blood meals.
A recent survey found that nearly half of Black parents (48%) were hesitant about the COVID-19 vaccine for their child. Researchers attribute this hesitancy to a lack of trust in certain sources of information. To address this, targeted outreach efforts are needed to reach these vulnerable populations.
Researchers at MUSC have discovered that hnRNP E1, a tumor suppressor protein, not only binds RNA but also DNA to maintain genome integrity and sense or prevent DNA damage. The protein's binding is sequence- and structure-specific, suggesting its potential role in preventing cancer metastasis.
A new study led by the University of Miami Rosenstiel School found that changes in ocean salinity due to a more intensified water cycle lead to reduced surface warming. This phenomenon enhances ocean heat uptake into the deep ocean, moderating the pace of global warming.
Researchers discovered that adrenal gland metastases are unresponsive to checkpoint inhibitors due to the secretion of corticosteroids. Surgical removal is the current best course of action for patients with these metastases. The study's authors hope to develop a nonsurgical treatment option in the future.
A Stanford study has linked insulin resistance to an increased risk of major depressive disorder. The research found that individuals with insulin resistance are twice as likely to develop the condition, even if they have never experienced depression before.
A new quantum secure direct communication (QSDC) network has been demonstrated by a team of scientists, enabling 15 users to communicate securely over long distances. The network uses time-energy entanglement and sum-frequency generation (SFG), achieving a fidelity of greater than 95% for entangled states shared between users.
A new study reviews sustainability standards for crop and livestock production, finding moderate positive effects on the environment through reduced agrichemical use. However, economic benefits vary by region and standard, and assessments are complicated. The study also raises concerns about labor practices and inequalities in the rura...
Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham discovered a small molecule that potently attenuates neuroinflammation in brain and glial cells. This finding presents a promising new approach to treat neurological diseases driven by neuroinflammation, such as stroke, spinal cord injury, and neuropathic pain.
The NKF-ASN Task Force recommends adopting a new eGFR 2021 CKD-EPI creatinine equation to estimate kidney function without a race variable. This new approach may alter the stage of kidney diseases in some people, emphasizing the importance of patient education and consultation with healthcare professionals.
Researchers developed an AI algorithm that can assess climate change tipping points, predicting rapid or irreversible change in systems. The new approach can detect features of tipping points common to various complex systems, including ecology, epidemiology, and markets.
New guidelines aim to standardize interpretation of MRI scans in patients with pelvic floor disorders, promoting shared understanding among professionals. The consensus statement provides definitions and templates for diagnosing conditions such as incontinence, constipation, and prolapse.
Researchers found that high biodiversity enhances ecosystem functions by 20%, with environmental heterogeneity significantly boosting this positive impact. Species richness was more important for ecosystem functioning than species turnover in African ecosystems along Mount Kilimanjaro's elevational gradient.
Engineers have successfully extracted water and oxygen from lunar soil using a two-step process, which could support future human exploration of the Moon. The system uses a mineral mixture that mimics lunar soil and produces gases through electrolysis, making it scalable and self-sustained.
The use of dendrochronology in verifying musical instrument authenticity is discussed by Paolo Cherubini. The method uses tree ring patterns to determine the age and provenance of the wood used in construction.
Scientists at UEA have identified a way to determine the age of lobsters using DNA. The method is based on quantifying DNA changes that accumulate with age within a lobster. This breakthrough could help manage lobster fisheries more sustainably by providing accurate estimates of lobster ages.
The Hedge Design for the Abatement of Traffic Emissions (HedgeDATE) online tool offers personalized recommendations for reducing traffic-related air pollution. By inputting their environment details, users can receive tailored advice on how to improve air quality through simple and effective actions.
UCSF researchers found that Erα plays a crucial role in overcoming innate anti-cancer mechanisms and developing resistance to treatment. Inhibiting Erα RNA-binding activity restored tamoxifen's potency against breast cancer tumors, making the cells more sensitive to stress and apoptosis.
A study found that early weight loss in obese boys can improve reproductive function and reverse alterations in Leydig cell function, which could help prevent future fertility problems. The research suggests that managing childhood obesity may be necessary to prevent reproductive issues and lower the risk of other diseases.
Researchers from Kazan Federal University discovered that micelle-forming polyurethane inhibitors can effectively inhibit hydrate formation. The study found that the presence of surface-active properties and ability to form micelles can hinder hydrate formation, providing a new mechanism for gas storage and flow assurance.
A team of researchers developed an algorithm that infers the communicative needs of different linguistic communities regarding colors. The study found that warm hues like reds and yellows have a higher demand for language, while less prominent colors are underrepresented.
Researchers developed a soft robotic steerable micro-catheter for precise brain surgery, enabling targeted treatment of cerebral disorders. The innovative catheter uses biomimicry to navigate and maneuver within the brain's complex anatomy.
A team of researchers, led by University of Houston associate professor Ryan Kennedy, has received a $750,000 NSF grant to create an algorithm-accountability benchmark. The project aims to establish general ways of analyzing algorithms and studying their impact on public policy decisions.
Researchers identified two subtypes of metastatic prostate cancer that respond differently to hormone treatment. Luminal tumors responded better to testosterone-blocking treatments, while basal tumors did not benefit as much from this hormone treatment.
Food insecurity among migrants on the move is a pressing issue, with limited scientific literature documenting its prevalence and severity. A new study proposes a definition of migrants in active mobility and recommends interdisciplinary actions to inform policy and strategies guaranteeing access to food.
The ACC Quality Summit Virtual brings together clinicians, administrators, and quality professionals to translate data into achieving quality care. Key findings include innovative health care strategies and exceptional leadership, as showcased by the 2021 Ray Bahr Award of Excellence winner.
A Texas A&M AgriLife Research project aims to eliminate beef cattle pregnancy loss using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. The researchers are studying the role of glycoproteins in embryo loss, with a focus on gene knockout technology, and aim to develop management strategies to prevent reproductive inefficiency in the beef industry.
A University of Minnesota Medical School study found that nicotine withdrawal can lead to overeating high-calorie foods, possibly linked to the brain's opioid system. This connection may hinder smoking cessation and increase the risk of relapse, emphasizing the need for better understanding the factors driving cravings for unhealthy food.
Newly discovered fossil human footprints provide definitive evidence of early human occupation in southern North America during the Last Glacial Maximum. The findings suggest humans inhabited the region between 23 and 21 thousand years ago, contradicting previous estimates of migration timing.
A global collaboration has identified three groups of antibodies resistant to mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein, which could target vulnerable sites on the protein. The study provides a framework for selecting durable antibody cocktails for COVID-19 treatment and will guide the development of more effective antibody therapies.
Researchers estimate that by 2025, fewer than one in 20 people living with HIV in England will be unaware of their status. The study suggests that combination prevention strategies, including HIV testing and early treatment, are working effectively in reducing undiagnosed HIV cases. However, gaps persist, particularly among heterosexua...
Scientists have created a novel method for synthesizing starch from carbon dioxide and hydrogen without using living cells. This breakthrough could revolutionize industrial biomanufacturing of starch, which is used in paper, bioplastics, and animal feed.
A new study suggests that autobiographical memories of authentic and inauthentic experiences serve specific purposes, such as defining identity and enhancing self-fulfilment. Reflecting on these experiences can also improve problem-solving skills and promote a more authentic response.
A Duke University-led study finds that if endangered primates disappear, up to 250 parasites could go extinct, including those with no other suitable hosts. This potential extinction cascade could have significant consequences for biodiversity and human health.
A team of scientists demonstrated an optical localization-induced nonlinear competition mechanism to control laser-induced periodic surface structuring. The method produces large-scale high-quality thin-film nanogratings by optimizing laser pulse energy and using laser direct writing.
Researchers developed a numerical model to estimate ozone concentration needed for proper disinfection. The system was validated through tests on metro and tram wagons, achieving high virus inactivation efficiency with minimal residual ozone emission.
SUTD researchers develop sensor that assigns dirt score to areas based on visual and tactile analysis, allowing for more efficient exploration of complex spaces. The sensor is integrated with a smart algorithm that directs the robot to focus on areas with high dirt probability.
Research reveals that US government agencies award contracts to companies with ties to the President's party, especially in battleground states. This politicization of procurement can lead to non-competitive bidding and favoritism towards certain companies.
Researchers found that women were less likely to participate in leadership selection under the 'opt-in' mechanism, but this gap disappeared when competitiveness was removed. The 'opt-out' mechanism effectively eliminates gender gaps and helps employees avoid stress associated with negotiating for leadership roles.
Researchers develop a theory and experimentally demonstrate micro-scale opto-thermo-mechanical actuation using nanosecond laser pulses, enabling sub-nanometer resolution and controllable motion. The technique has potential applications in lab-on-a-chip technologies and optical modulation.
A machine learning algorithm called HORUS has improved the resolution of images of lunar shadowed regions, allowing scientists to better understand the geology and potential hazards. The algorithm achieved a resolution of about 1-2 meters per pixel, revealing small geological structures such as boulders and mini-craters.
The study found that participants who completed the Active Living After Cancer program showed significant improvements in physical activity, six-minute walk distance, and mental health. The program is effective for minority and medically underserved cancer survivors and can be implemented through a community-based model.
Researchers discovered that new mutations in the BRAF gene can lead to gliomas growing back after treatment, suggesting personalized approaches to therapy. The study also explored potential impacts of COVID-19 vaccines on menstruation.
Research reveals that nectar-feeding bats foraging in intensively managed banana plantations have less diverse gut microbes compared to those feeding in natural forest habitats or organic plantations. This association between habitat alteration and sustainable agriculture on bat gut microbiota is a significant finding.
A novel fiber-tip-polymer clamped-beam probe micro-force sensor was developed using femtosecond-laser-induced two-photon polymerization technique. The sensor exhibited an ultrahigh force sensitivity of 1.51 nm/μN and a detection limit of 54.9 nN, opening avenues for high-precision biomedical and material science examination.
Patients with certain gene mutations are at high risk of fatal chemotherapy toxicity, with a 25-times increased risk detected in those with uncommon DPYD variants. The study suggests that adding pre-treatment screening may help prevent avoidable deaths without interrupting standard care.
Researchers at PSU and UT Arlington will assess how crowdsourced data can help establish pedestrian activity on streets. The study aims to provide a more accurate alternative to traditional counting methods, enabling safer studies and better urban planning.
Researchers at UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center and the UNC School of Medicine developed a dual-threat CAR-T immunotherapy that effectively controls neuroblastoma in animal models. The new therapy targets two antigens on cancer cells, restricting tumor regrowth and preventing evasion by immune cells.
Polarisation optics offers sensitive sub-cellular structure analysis and compatible imaging/sensing for in vivo applications. The Stokes-Mueller formalism and Mueller matrix describe polarisation states, enabling various measurement approaches and information extraction techniques.
A study by Weill Cornell Medicine identified Oct2 as the key determinant of B-cell humoral immune response, suggesting that the destiny of antibody-producing cells is predetermined. This discovery may lead to new insights into tissue development and cancer development.
A new study by Penn State researchers found that a specific diet designed to alter fatty acid intake can improve mood variability in patients with bipolar disorders. The diet reduced omega-6 consumption and increased omega-3 consumption, resulting in improved symptoms like pain and anxiety.
A recent study published in JNCCN found that four out of five cancer therapies tested in Phase III trials did not achieve clinically-meaningful benefits in prolonging survival. The researchers analyzed 362 industry-sponsored trials and found that 87% were either false-positive or true-negative for meeting overall survival goals.
Researchers from FAU and TU Darmstadt have developed a method to control electron pulses over long distances using 'alternating phase focusing', which can be used to guide electrons in three dimensions. The technology has the potential to miniaturize particle accelerators, making them more efficient and powerful.
Researchers reveal stable phosphatidylglycerol-DNA complex formation with strong van der Waals and hydrophobic interactions. The complex's structural parameters are determined, providing insight into the differences between DNA-phospholipid interaction and fatty acid binding.
A recent study found disparities in the use of telemedicine for ophthalmic care during the COVID-19 pandemic. These disparities highlight varying levels of access to and utilization of this technology in different populations.
Clouds have been detected on the distant exoplanet WASP-127b, and their altitude has been measured for the first time. The observations reveal that water vapor is present at lower levels but screened by clouds opaque to visible light, while sodium is found in an unexpected place.
China's space transportation systems have made significant leaps in recent decades, with advancements in launch vehicles, propulsion systems, and artificial intelligence. The country aims to become a powerful space nation by the mid-21st century, with plans for manned missions to the Moon and Mars.
The coastal Northeastern US is heating at a rate twice as fast as other regions, driven by rapid ocean warming and changes in atmospheric circulation. Significant summer warming along the coast is also occurring.
Researchers found that viral, fungal, or bacterial infections impact blood vessel repair in the brain after traumatic brain injury (TBI) and cerebrovascular injury. Infected animals took longer to repair damaged blood vessels, leading to permanent cognitive dysfunction and brain damage.
Researchers Boevé and Giot translated insect defense chemicals into sounds, measuring human reactions. The study found that the responses by ants and humans are correlated, indicating that sonification can approximate real-world predator-prey interactions.
The EU's carbon border adjustment mechanism could significantly impact countries like Bosnia and Herzegovina, Morocco, and Mozambique due to their high exposure and vulnerability to the mechanism. To mitigate this, the EU should provide financial and technical support to these countries to aid in decarbonisation efforts.
Researchers highlight current strategies to restore lost function and replace what is lost in the PD brain, including cell and gene therapy approaches. Pioneering trials face regulatory and ethical challenges that require incremental development and step-wise optimization of products.
A research team at POSTECH observes synchronized oscillations of optical intensity and symmetry-breaking transitions at an exceptional point. They also discover energy-difference conservation for the first time in the optical domain using APT symmetry platforms based on nonlinear four-wave-mixing.