A new study by Prof. Yu Noda from Doshisha University found that vertical collaboration with higher governments can help local municipalities achieve fiscal efficiency and mitigate risks, while horizontal collaborations also improve service quality but have limitations.
The James Webb Space Telescope has captured infrared images of a population of red spiral galaxies at unprecedented resolution, revealing their morphology in detail. These galaxies are among the farthest known spiral galaxies and suggest that such spiral galaxies existed in large numbers in the early universe.
A new study from the University of Tsukuba identifies a critical signaling pathway within brain cells that regulates both the length and depth of sleep. By manipulating enzymes and proteins, researchers found that altering this pathway can significantly impact sleep duration and quality.
A recent study found that frequent mobile device use for calming young children may displace opportunities for learning emotion-regulation strategies. Pediatric health care professionals may need to encourage alternative calming approaches to support healthy development.
Scientists at the University of Tsukuba discovered a phenomenon where moving a virtual assistant's voice closer to users increases customer rapport, contrasting with traditional ventriloquism effects. This 'mouth-in-the-door' effect can be used to enhance user experience in virtual commerce scenarios.
Researchers have observed long, web-like plasma structures in the Sun's middle corona, which discharge particles into space through interactions within the structures. This innovative observation method could lead to a better understanding of the solar wind's origins and its interactions with the rest of the solar system.
A new study identifies anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) as a key factor in regulating cholesterol levels during the menopause transition. High AMH levels are associated with lower HDL-C, or good cholesterol, which may indicate cardiovascular risk despite its traditionally protective effects.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that patients with depression are less likely to adhere to essential medical therapies following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The study examined over 124,000 patients who underwent PCI and were diagnosed with depression, revealing a significant proportion of individuals with...
A new analysis led by Dr. Asaf Tzachor finds that replacing beef with Spirulina algae can save nearly 100kg of greenhouse gas emissions, 340 square meters of land and 1,400 liters of water for every kilogram of beef meat replaced.
A new study found an increase in adults using both substances simultaneously, leading to more negative consequences such as risk behaviors and heavy substance use. The findings suggest that changes in cannabis legislation may lead people to use both substances, particularly among adults aged 21-50.
Scientists discovered that Fe-rich Fe-O alloys can exist in Earth's inner core under extreme pressure and temperature conditions. The study found stable oxygen layers between iron layers, suggesting the presence of oxygen in the solid inner core.
Researchers used a novel modeling method to study hummingbird wing movement, revealing previously unknown principles of actuation. They found that hummingbirds' primary muscles pull wings in three directions: up and down, back and forth, and twisting. This discovery has implications for technological development of agile aerial systems.
Researchers have developed a new process to recycle and recondition graphite anodes in lithium-ion batteries, reducing environmental impact. The 'flash' Joule heating process recovers critical metals and enhances the performance of recycled anodes.
A world-first study found that chronic pain in stroke survivors can alter body perception, increasing accident risk. Researchers discovered that nearly three times as many stroke survivors with chronic pain experience altered body perception compared to those without.
A recent study on fossil katydids from the Mesozoic Era provides novel insights into the evolution of acoustic organs and behavior. The research team discovered exceptionally preserved Mesozoic katydids with the earliest known insect ears, extending the age range of modern-type auditory tympana by 100 million years.
A recent study by City of Hope found that only 30% of patients with advanced neuroendocrine tumors prioritize living longer as their top goal. Instead, 70% focus on addressing pain, fatigue, and losing function. The research highlights the need for better communication between care providers and patients to develop personalized treatme...
Researchers from Florida Atlantic University have developed a prototype of a novel wearable device that can continuously monitor physiological parameters associated with heart failure in real-time. The device uses sensors embedded in a lightweight belt to track thoracic impedance, electrocardiogram, heart rate, and motion activity, pro...
Researchers at Washington State University found that two types of quinoa bred specifically for the Pacific Northwest climate worked well as a high-fiber, high-protein additive flour in commercial cookies. Preliminary results show people preferred sugar cookies with 10% quinoa flour over traditional wheat flour cookies.
Researchers developed a new way to study the sensory system used by pathogenic bacteria to infect humans. They screened thousands of peptides against a bacterial sensor and discovered 13 new human antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) that activate the sensor. The findings suggest an arms race between humans and bacteria, with each evolving ne...
Researchers at Binghamton University have developed ingestible biobatteries that utilize microbial fuel cells with spore-forming Bacillus subtilis bacteria to power sensors and Wi-Fi connections. The biobatteries can generate up to 100 microwatts per square centimeter of power density, enough for wireless transmission.
Cardiac reprogramming converts scar tissue into healthy heart muscle, reducing fibrosis and improving heart function in mice with chronic myocardial infarction. This approach could lead to a new treatment for patients with heart attack and heart failure.
The FDA's proposed breast density notifications may not be clear enough for all women, particularly those with lower literacy levels. Researchers recommend that the agency uses rigorous evaluation methods to test language and reactions, ensuring that warnings are communicated effectively.
Scientists developed a new method to verify typhoon track forecasts, reducing timing errors and improving accuracy. The approach analyzes a time window around each grid point, mitigating the impact of timing errors.
A recent study published in Nature Cardiovascular Research found a link between COVID-19 and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), with patients infected five times more likely to develop the condition. Vaccination was also linked, but at a lower risk, emphasizing the importance of vaccination in reducing POTS.
Researchers have developed a robot capable of sorting, manipulating, and identifying microscopic marine fossils. Forabot uses robotics and artificial intelligence to automate the tedious process of evaluating foram shells and fossils.
A new genus of scorpionflies has been discovered in Nepal, characterized by a spindly and extremely elongated abdomen. The males have long grasping pincers for mating, while the females lack these distinctive features, making classification more challenging.
Scientists have developed a positive electrode material that maintains its volume during repeated charge/discharge cycles, ideal for solid-state EV batteries. This breakthrough offers significant improvements in durability and charging speed, potentially reducing battery costs and enabling faster charging times.
Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a CRISPR-based therapy that targets and destroys mutant RNA molecules causing Huntington's disease. The approach improved motor coordination and reduced toxic protein levels in mouse models, suggesting a potential new treatment direction.
A survey study found adolescents who received routine childhood vaccines were more likely to receive a COVID-19 vaccine dose. This may indicate that addressing hesitancy about routine vaccinations can reduce concerns about COVID-19 vaccines.
Leading researchers in ecological economics propose a strategic policy framework to enable wealthy countries to reduce materials and energy while improving social outcomes. The approach, known as degrowth, aims to secure human needs and well-being by abandoning aggregate growth as an objective.
Researchers have developed a way to encapsulate vitamin A in a protective polymer, preventing its breakdown during cooking or storage. The technology has shown similar bioavailability when consumed as bread fortified with encapsulated vitamin A compared to eating vitamin A on its own.
Researchers identified a single protein, FETUA-3, that inhibits a broad spectrum of rattlesnake venom toxins. The discovery may lead to the development of improved snake bite treatments and novel therapeutic options.
Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a gold-based transparent coating that absorbs infrared radiation selectively, heating up to 8 degrees Celsius. The coating is thinner, pliable, and more efficient than traditional antifogging methods, requiring minimal gold material costs.
A new MIR all-optical modulator based on an acetylene-filled hollow-core fiber has been developed, enabling gas sensing and medical diagnostics in the mid-infrared range. The device utilizes the photo-thermal effect to achieve phase modulation, allowing for ultra-broadband modulation devices from NIR to MIR.
A unique clinical trial has achieved a remarkable 97% induction survival rate in patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) by providing a simplified treatment regimen and 24/7 support from APL experts. This collaborative care model, known as EA9131, significantly reduced early deaths and improved overall survival rates.
Modakafusp alfa has shown significant potential in combating multiple myeloma with 43% of patients experiencing a partial response. The treatment targets interferon in cells expressing CD38, a marker present on myeloma cells and immune cells.
A new study by Bruegel experts recommends a European 'green pact' to increase climate investments and meet EU's ambitious Paris Agreement targets. The proposal involves better regulatory policies, higher emissions pricing, and public green investments.
Scientists have developed a novel fabrication method for large-area and high-precision aspheric micro-lens arrays via single beam exposure DLWL, enabling high flexibility in design. The approach produces AMLA with dimensions of 30 × 30 mm² within 8 hours, exceeding 100 mm²/h writing speed.
Researchers designed a bifunctional high entropy metal oxide/carbon nanofibers interlayer via simple electrospinning to improve lithium sulfur battery performance. The unique structure and function of the interlayer reduce shuttle effects and limit lithium polysulfides crossover, resulting in superior electrochemical performance.
A study of over 2000 US parents found that behavioural sleep interventions (BSIs) such as controlled crying and 'cry it out' are associated with longer and more consolidated infant sleep. These interventions were also found to be safe, with no adverse consequences on parent-infant bonding or parent depression.
A study led by Flinders University has identified 18 challenges in Australia's sustainable use of groundwater, citing over-extraction and unregulated pumping as major contributors. The report calls for improved regional-scale volumetric water extraction limits and better stakeholder communications to address these challenges.
Scientists create an artificial brain in a petri dish to study the effects of the Zika virus. The study reveals that viral noncoding RNA helps the virus evade antiviral responses and cause cell death in developing brains.
Researchers have found that corals in the northern Red Sea have not experienced mass bleaching despite high heat stress due to their acquired temperature tolerance around 7,000 years ago. The region's reefs are expected to be among the last standing by the end of the century under projected warming scenarios.
WEHI researchers have visualized how a non-insulin molecule can mimic the role of insulin, opening new avenues for an oral insulin pill. The study confirms alternative molecules can be used to turn on blood glucose uptake, bypassing insulin needs.
Researchers calculated 74 metric tonnes of microplastics drop onto Auckland annually, equivalent to over 3 million plastic bottles. The smallest particles are highly toxic and can enter cells, cross the blood-brain barrier, and accumulate in organs.
A new tabletop coherent source has been developed that spans seven optical octaves and features a spectral brightness up to five orders of magnitude higher than the brightest synchrotrons. This breakthrough enables various strong field, ultrafast, and molecular spectroscopy applications.
A phase III clinical trial showed efgartigimod significantly improved sustained platelet response and doubled platelet counts in patients with chronic ITP. The treatment demonstrated effectiveness across various patient demographics, with minimal side effects.
Researchers from USTC found that temporal lobe epilepsy patients require more control energy to activate limbic networks compared to healthy controls. Glucose metabolism levels are inversely correlated with control energy consumption, suggesting lower baseline metabolism requires more energy.
The FAST telescope has detected unprecedented detail about the distribution of neutral hydrogen gas in the Milky Way, revealing fine structures across 88 square degrees. The team also found evidence for magnetic field reversals along spiral arms and confirmed shell-type supernova remnants.
Researchers have demonstrated successful re-treatment with CAR T cell therapy for patients whose cancers relapsed after previous treatment. The novel fourth-generation CAR T therapy, huCART19-IL18, showed safe and potent antitumor efficacy in a Phase I clinical trial.
Researchers from The Mount Sinai Hospital found that talquetamab, a bispecific antibody, was successful in killing multiple myeloma cells in over 70% of patients. This therapy directs the immune system to target cancer cells and has shown promise even for those who have resisted all other treatments.
A new treatment protocol has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of aggressive childhood leukemia returning after chemotherapy. The ALL-11 protocol, which includes an extra year of maintenance chemotherapy for children with specific genetic mutations, has improved five-year survival rates and quality of life for these patients....
Researchers from USTC achieved contactless ECG monitoring through a millimeter-wave radar system, demonstrating high accuracy and reliability for diagnosing cardiovascular diseases. The new method showed a median timing error of less than 14 milliseconds and a morphology accuracy higher than 90% compared to conventional ECGs.
USTC scientists made a significant breakthrough in ab initio computing simulation of complex metallic heterostructures with 2.5 million atoms. This achievement is expected to be applied in the construction of 2D-materials-based transistors.
An international study found that an intermediate level of anticoagulation had a high probability of being better than low dose anticoagulation, with no increased risk of bleeding. The study's findings inform WHO guidelines and provide evidence for a middle ground in COVID treatment.
Researchers used pollen records from four montane conifers to estimate past elevation of northern Tibet Plateau, revealing rapid uplift during the Middle to Late Miocene epochs. The study supports prevailing theoretical models of Tibet Plateau formation and highlights its impact on atmospheric water vapor transport and rainfall patterns.
Research reveals distinct genetic groups of sand lance, a crucial forage fish, with different genome regions on chromosomes 21 and 24. The findings indicate that temperature-driven currents create genetic barriers, affecting population connectivity and survival.
A new study reveals that bat diversity is highest in old deciduous forest stands on river banks in Eastern Ukraine. The research found that mature forests older than 90 years improve breeding activity and abundance of bats, with species richness increasing up to 22% of all forests in the region.
The study analyzed 23,000 symptomatic individuals in King County, Washington, from June 2020 to July 2022. It found shifts in reported symptoms between SARS-CoV-2 variants and persistent racial and sociodemographic disparities in rhinovirus infection.
Researchers used dental microwear texture analysis to infer feeding habits of large theropods, including T. rex and Allosaurus. The study found that these dinosaurs did not eat bones as frequently as thought, with juveniles having a different feeding behavior.