Researchers at Rice University have created macroscale, modular materials from engineered bacteria that can self-assemble and perform various functions. The materials, dubbed BUD-ELMs, contain living cells that allow them to grow, repair, and respond to external stimuli.
A new genetically based score developed by McGill University researchers can identify children at high risk for impulsive behavior with a high degree of accuracy. The score was created by analyzing the co-expression of genes in key brain regions, providing a novel understanding of the neurobiology of impulsivity.
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine are conducting a five-year study to assess the tradeoffs between soccer's aerobic brain benefits and the adverse effects from heading. The study will enroll 280 young men and women and investigate whether soccer's aerobic benefits counterbalance the damage sustained from heading.
A new study published in The Lancet Psychiatry suggests that adults with a history of childhood trauma can experience symptom improvement after pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, or combination treatment. Despite previous theories, these common treatments are effective for patients with childhood trauma.
A study has mapped streamflow alterations across the continental US, using measurements from over 7,000 stream gauges. The dataset provides valuable data for determining societal impacts on ecosystems and setting environmental flow standards.
Researchers at Rice University have created stable and efficient halide perovskite solar cells by finding the right solvent design to apply a 2D top layer on top of a 3D bottom layer. The new method achieves high power conversion efficiencies, comparable to commercially available solar cells, while maintaining stability.
A recent study highlights the importance of physical exercise, social relationships, and passion in maintaining brain health. By adopting these three factors, individuals can improve their cognitive function and reduce the risk of age-related decline.
Solid-state NMR spectroscopy provides atomic-level insights into zeolite structure, dynamic behavior, and catalytic reactions. The technique enables the direct detection of framework structure and acid sites, allowing for optimized zeolites with improved catalytic performance.
Researchers from Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München have deciphered a crucial signaling mechanism that enables trypanosomes to reach the salivary glands of tsetse flies. By understanding this process, scientists can develop new methods to prevent transmission of African sleeping sickness.
A Stanford Medicine study reveals SARS-CoV-2 can directly infect adipose tissue, leading to viral replication and inflammation. Obesity is a significant risk factor for severe COVID-19 outcomes due to the virus's ability to create an inflammatory storm in fat tissue.
Researchers have developed a simplified and fast optoretinography approach to measure retinal function, potentially accelerating the development of new treatments for eye diseases. The technique can collect data from three healthy subjects in just ten minutes and has been demonstrated to be reproducible.
Researchers found that elevated CO2 levels stimulate tree growth, resulting in longer and more extensive root systems. This adaptation helps trees absorb nutrients from the soil, providing limited protection against climate change. The study provides insights into how forests respond to increased carbon dioxide levels.
The analysis of particles from asteroid Ryugu has revealed a high carbon content, similar to the Sun, and the presence of rare earth metals in concentrations 100 times higher than elsewhere in the solar system. The findings suggest that Ryugu originated from a parent asteroid formed in the outer solar nebula.
Physicists at the University of Groningen have observed a significant increase in magnon conductivity in ultrathin YIG films, surpassing expectations by three orders of magnitude. This unexpected result could lead to new devices and discoveries in spintronics.
A study published in JCI Insight has found that genetic variation plays a crucial role in the racial disparity of esophageal cancer cases. Researchers used artificial intelligence-guided tools to pinpoint a specific type of immune cell as the disease driver, and a protective genetic factor associated with African Americans.
Physicists at Forschungszentrum Jülich and RWTH Aachen University have successfully transferred electrons over several micrometres on a quantum chip, paving the way for a scalable quantum computer architecture that can support millions of qubits. The 'quantum bus' approach enables the coupling of qubits without the need for extensive c...
Scientists at the University of California San Diego have developed a new biodegradable polyurethane material that can break down in seawater, reducing plastic pollution. The material was tested in marine environments and found to be degraded by microorganisms, which consume the chemicals as nutrients.
The author suggests that individuals at average risk between 45 and 49 years old should consider non-invasive screening alternatives, such as fecal immunochemical tests or stool DNA testing. This approach would benefit others who need more invasive screening resources and reduce the strain on colonoscopy services.
A recent study suggests that coral reefs can evolve and adapt to climate change by protecting a sufficient diversity of coral reefs, particularly in hotter waters. The researchers advocate for conservation approaches at local, regional, and global scales to address this issue.
A study by Colorado State University found that indoor air contains more known human toxins than outdoor air, particularly when cooking or cleaning. The research, called HOMEChem, identified compounds like benzene, formaldehyde, and acrolein as potential health risks.
Researchers at Kobe University have developed a new method to synthesize fluoroalkyl carbonates, which are environmentally friendly alternatives to toxic precursors. These carbonates exhibit high reactivity and can be used to create pharmaceutical intermediates and other substances.
The EU aims to regulate electric vehicle batteries and stationary batteries with more than 2 kWh storage capacity. Researchers warn that design options may fall short of expectations and do harm.
Researchers suggest special blood vessels called 'retia mirabilia' reduce brain pressure pulses, preventing damage. Computer modeling supports theory, which could be applied to other animals and humans.
Researchers at Universiteit van Amsterdam use fluorescence microscopy and specialized molecules to study the transition from static to dynamic friction. They find that a slip wave propagates from the edge towards the center of the contact area just before sliding occurs.
Researchers have discovered a COVID-like virus in Russian bats that can infect human cells and is resistant to current vaccines. The new virus, named Khosta-2, poses a threat to global health and highlights the need for developing universal vaccines to protect against sarbecoviruses.
A new study from OHSU reveals that breakthrough infections following vaccination can provide a potent immune response against COVID-19, with increased protection for those 65 and older. The research found an equally strong immune response among people who received a third vaccine booster dose three months prior.
Researchers at the University of California San Diego developed microscopic robots called microrobots that can swim around in the lungs and deliver medication. The microrobots safely eliminated pneumonia-causing bacteria in mice, resulting in 100% survival rates, whereas untreated mice died within three days.
A novel fluorescent sensor has been developed to visualize the release of oxytocin, also known as the 'happy hormone', in living animals. The sensor, called MTRIA OT, allows for real-time measurement of extracellular oxytocin dynamics in the brain, revealing variability in OT levels dependent on behavioral and physical conditions.
A team of Swiss researchers has developed Aerial Additive Manufacturing (AAM), a system that uses flying drones to print materials for construction projects. The technology enables on-site manufacturing and building in difficult-to-access or dangerous locations, such as post-disaster relief construction and tall buildings.
A new study finds that forestation of Earth's vast drylands would do little to slow climate change, despite its potential for carbon sequestration. Smart dryland forestation can provide local benefits and potentially longer-term climate mitigation, but it cannot replace efforts to rapidly reduce emissions.
Brown algae's unique pigments have evolved through a complex genetic pathway, enabling them to harness more light energy than green plants. This discovery could lead to insights into fucoxanthin's health applications and improved photosynthetic efficiency for biofuels production.
A team of scientists from China published a perspective paper on the use of AI in skin diseases, highlighting its potential to assist clinicians. They propose several recommendations to improve AI-assisted diagnosis systems, including establishing a robust database and adapting algorithms to existing real-world databases.
Researchers use classical computers to make predictions about quantum systems, helping to solve physics and chemistry problems. Machine learning tools provide a bridge between the human world and quantum reality.
A recent study led by Drexel University's College of Nursing and Health Professions highlights the importance of nutrition and physical activity for both cancer patients and their caregivers. The research found similarities in beliefs about physical activity and barriers faced by both groups, including fatigue and time constraints.
A new project will explore the defence mechanisms of bacterial cells to stop the spread of drug-resistant genes. The team, led by Professor Edze Westra, will use a range of methods to understand how bacteria defend against mobile genetic elements (MGEs) that contribute to antimicrobial resistance.
Researchers have discovered how a common blood stem cell mutation, DNMT3A R882, alters gene activity and produces abnormal blood cells that increase cancer risk. The study found that the mutant cells produce more red blood cells and platelets, leading to higher cardiovascular disease risks.
A recent study has found that people who wear reusable contact lenses are nearly four times as likely to develop a rare sight-threatening eye infection. The study identified multiple factors that increase the risk of Acanthamoeba keratitis, including reusing lenses or wearing them overnight or in the shower.
Researchers reviewed mobile sensing designs, outcomes, and limitations to better understand its capacity for remote detection, longitudinal tracking, and exposure tracing. Despite technical and societal challenges, advances in data analytics and machine learning may improve data quality and scalability.
The Allen Institute is leading a global collaboration to create detailed atlases of the human brain and its cells. The project aims to understand brain function and structure, with applications in treating diseases of the brain.
A systematic review of studies on working mothers found that conflicting demands between job and parenting roles negatively impact mental health. Organizations can support employees by providing access to paid maternity leave, flexible work arrangements, and co-worker support.
Scientists at Stevens Institute of Technology have created a method to encode more information into a single photon, enabling faster and more powerful quantum communication tools. The twisty photon technology uses orbital angular momentum to boost the bandwidth of quantum communication systems.
Researchers from Trinity College Dublin created synthetic rocks to study rare earth element formation. The study reveals that fluids containing REEs replace common limestone via complex reactions, shedding light on the mechanisms of rock formation and industrial separation processes.
Researchers developed an engineered Cas13 system that detects SARS-CoV-2 in biological samples with high sensitivity and speed. The new platform outperforms traditional PCR testing, finding 10 out of 11 positives and no false positives in clinical samples.
A recent study found that former smokers who stick to a healthy lifestyle have a lower risk of dying from all causes, including cancer and heart and lung diseases. The study analyzed data from over 159,000 former smokers and found that maintaining a healthy lifestyle was associated with a 27% reduction in the risk of death.
A nationwide study of 1.2 million children in Norway suggests a possible association between COVID-19 and new-onset type 1 diabetes. The study found that children who contracted COVID-19 were more likely to develop type 1 diabetes, but the absolute risk remains low.
Researchers have found evidence for a massive, molten chamber within the ancient crust of South Africa, contradicting recent views on the existence and longevity of such structures. The discovery suggests that 'big tank' magma chambers may be more common than thought, with implications for our understanding of Earth's geological history.
A study by the Human Brain Project distinguished between two neurological conditions using state-of-the-art techniques. The results reveal important information about the mechanisms of consciousness disorders, including altered brain dynamics and reduced functional network activity.
A study published in Science found that more than one-tenth of the world's terrestrial genetic diversity may already be lost due to climate change and habitat destruction. This could have serious implications for species' ability to adapt to climate change, highlighting the need for urgent conservation efforts.
Developed by a University of Michigan-led team, the material controls infrared radiation flow and is stable at 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. It uses destructive interference to reflect infrared energy while letting shorter wavelengths pass through, potentially reducing heat waste in thermophotovoltaic cells.
Invasive house mice on Southeast Farallon Island consume and compete with native species for food, leading to significant impacts on the island ecosystem. The study found that mice are highly opportunistic eaters whose diets vary throughout the year in response to changes in food availability.
A team of neuroscientists at the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University aim to create an ultra-high resolution molecular atlas of the brain, enabling precise gene delivery to specific cell types. This project has the potential to revolutionize treatment of fatal brain diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Researchers found that using the Bazett formula to assess heartbeat rhythms can lead to inaccurate chemotherapy modifications, potentially affecting patient care. Standardizing formulas with electrocardiograms can reduce this risk and improve treatment outcomes.
Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have created a tool to identify 'safe harbor' sites for gene therapies, balancing safety and therapeutic expression. The tool uses genomic and epigenetic information to find regions with high variability among healthy individuals, reducing the risk of cancer or other problems.
A large study of former smokers found that those adhering to evidence-based recommendations for body weight, diet, physical activity, and alcohol intake had a significantly lower risk of death. The study included nearly 160,000 older U.S. adults and showed that better lifestyle habits can reduce mortality risk from various causes.
Scientists have found that the tectonic stress in Japan's Nankai subduction zone is less than expected, contradicting predictions of a major buildup of pent-up energy. The research suggests that the fault may not be as unstable as thought, but still requires further investigation and long-term monitoring.
Researchers found that bodies with lower BMI had decreased bacterial diversity, while those with higher BMI maintained constant diversity. The study suggests intrinsic factors like disease and medication load may impact microbial life in the surrounding soil.
Termite-mediated wood decay is significantly influenced by temperature, with termite presence and activity being more sensitive to thermal changes than microbial decomposition. As the planet warms, termites are expected to expand their range, becoming a crucial factor in global carbon cycling.
A new Stanford study found that widespread home electric vehicle charging at night could strain the US western grid by up to 25% by 2035. The researchers recommend daytime charging at work or public stations to reduce peak demand and greenhouse gas emissions.
New research shows that COVID-19 infections can lead to a range of neurological complications in the first year after infection, including strokes, cognitive decline, depression, anxiety, and migraine headaches. The study analyzed over 14 million medical records and found that COVID-19 survivors were at increased risk of developing the...
The current global monkeypox outbreak emphasizes the importance of a preventative One Health approach to minimize the risk of future emergence of known and unknown zoonotic pathogens. This is particularly crucial with the majority of people worldwide living in high population densities in cities, facilitating the spread of infectious d...