Researchers developed soft robots that can navigate complex environments like mazes and climb slopes of loose sand. The twist in the robot's design allows it to rotate around obstacles and 'snap' into place, enabling autonomous navigation without human or computer input.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that higher red blood cell distribution width is associated with increased rates of in-hospital mortality and hospital re-admission among older patients. The study included 94,617 patients aged over 60 who were hospitalized between 2013 and 2017.
Concentrated solar power (CSP) plants use wet cooling methods to dissipate waste heat, but this can lead to significant water loss. A new study developed a radiative cooling system with cold storage that reduces water consumption by up to 85% in hot regions.
A team of researchers used resonant inelastic X-ray scattering to study the behavior of electron spins in iron selenide, a material that exhibits directionally-dependent electronic behavior. They found that high-energy spin excitations are dispersive and undamped, indicating a well-defined energy-versus-momentum relationship.
A study published in Human Reproduction found that men with obesity who lost weight saw a 50% increase in sperm concentration and a 40% increase in sperm count over an 8-week period. This improvement was sustained for up to 52 weeks and even doubled for those who maintained weight loss after a year
Three high school students from Portugal used a Raspberry Pi computer to measure Earth's magnetic field in orbit, comparing their results to data provided by the International Geomagnetic Reference Field. They found significant differences due to static magnetic fields inside the space station, but improved results with more measurements.
NIST researchers have developed a new atomic radio receiver that boosts signal strength 100-fold by enclosing cesium atoms in a custom copper structure resembling headphones. The structure acts as a split-ring resonator, enhancing the incoming radio signal and enabling the detection of weaker signals.
A lifestyle intervention program of increased physical activity and healthy eating, or taking the medication metformin, were found to be effective long-term in delaying or preventing Type 2 diabetes in adults with prediabetes. However, neither approach reduced the risk of cardiovascular disease over a 21-year follow-up period.
By pairing two waveguides, one with an ill-defined topology and another with a well-defined one, researchers created a topological singularity that can halt waves in their tracks. This phenomenon has potential applications in energy harvesting and enhancing nonlinear effects.
A study found that people experience a dissociative state when scrolling through social media, leading researchers to design an app that promotes user control and attention. The app, Chirp, incorporates features such as lists and pop-up surveys to help users stay focused.
The review highlights advances in fundamental visualization methods for medical images in 3D, including scalar, vector, and tensor data. Medical professionals can quickly locate proper techniques using a taxonomy of medical problems and examples of health applications.
Researchers used mathematical modeling to identify effective solutions, including strategically placed berms. A civil conversation between the source of the noise and the receiver is also crucial in finding an agreeable outcome.
A NTU Singapore study found that consumers associate higher-pitched commercials with healthier food products. The researchers also discovered a link between more stimulating visuals and consumer perceptions of healthiness.
Scientists from the University of Maryland developed CRISPR-Combo, a method to edit multiple genes in plants while simultaneously changing gene expression. This new tool enables genetic engineering combinations that work together to boost functionality and improve breeding of new crops.
The Society for Integrative Oncology has partnered with the Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine (JICM) to advance evidence-based integrative healthcare. This partnership benefits SIO members by offering discounted Open Access publishing fees, while also providing worldwide exposure for research in integrative oncology.
A Rutgers study suggests that individual attitudes towards heavy alcohol use are a key predictor of college student drinking. The research found that students' own attitudes towards heavy drinking, rather than peer pressure or societal norms, were more closely linked to binge-drinking frequency and alcohol-related problems.
A study found that domesticated pigs and horses, as well as Asian wild horses, can tell the difference between positively and negatively charged sounds. The animals reacted stronger to negatively charged voices and showed mirroring of emotions.
A new study in Northern Sweden found that methane emissions from thawing permafrost can be reduced by a factor of 10 due to changes in hydrology, plant community, and microorganisms. As permafrost thaws, new plant species adapt to drier soil conditions, reducing methane transport and allowing bacteria to break it down.
A new study suggests that cutting emissions of carbon dioxide and other largely neglected climate pollutants is crucial to stay below the 1.5°C guardrail and avoid catastrophic climate change. The study finds that adopting a 'dual strategy' can cut the rate of warming in half by 2050.
A 10-year citizen science study found that UK bumblebees need varied habitats to thrive. The study identified specific habitat requirements for different species, including arable areas and semi-natural land, highlighting the need for targeted conservation efforts.
Researchers developed an approach to predict shooter localization accuracy using geometric considerations, sensor characteristics, and urban environment. The prediction is represented as an ellipse-shaped area around the true shooter location, with smaller areas indicating higher accuracy.
Engineers at Stanford University have developed a microfluidic system that isolates allergen-reactive basophils from blood samples using magnetic nanoparticles. The device achieves purities and recovery over 95% in just 10 minutes, making it accessible to clinics and diagnostic labs.
Researchers have identified three new proteins that play a key role in plants' response to physical contact and touch, solving a scientific mystery that has eluded molecular biologists for 30 years. The study's findings could lead to higher yields and improved stress resistance in crops, which is crucial in the face of climate change.
A study has found that there is no single best moisturiser for children with eczema, highlighting the importance of patient education and choice. The trial, funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research, compared four types of moisturisers and found that reactions were common regardless of type.
A new study found that patient-reported physical well-being is a significant factor in determining cancer prognosis and survival. The research highlights the importance of shared decision-making in cancer treatment, suggesting that clinicians should prioritize listening to patients' perspectives.
A new diagnostic marker has been identified that predicts successful and efficient oocyte development. The study found that X-chromosome inactivation and reactivation are critical for normal germ cell differentiation.
A new study of nearly 90,000 cannabis samples across six states found that the current labeling system does not consistently align with the observed chemical diversity of products. The researchers are now calling for a more comprehensive labeling system akin to food's nutrition facts panel.
A study found that states with laws requiring CPR/AED training in high school had higher rates of bystander CPR after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest compared to those without such mandates. The study suggests that this intervention can help reduce health disparities, particularly among low-income and minority communities.
The University of Minnesota has received a $66 million grant from the NIAID to establish a center for developing antiviral drugs for pandemic-level viruses, including SARS-CoV-2. The Midwest Antiviral Drug Discovery Center will bring together investigators from the University and sixteen other institutions nationwide.
Researchers at University of Utah Health have found a natural chemical in soft corals that shows promise in treating cancer. The discovery allows for the first steps of re-creating the chemical in the laboratory, opening up possibilities for producing it on a large scale.
Researchers have developed a new carbon capture method using sponge-like materials that can trap CO2 without degrading over time. The materials are made from sugar and low-cost alkali metal salts, making them a potentially cost-effective solution for reducing coal-fired power plant emissions.
A study identified an 18-base osteogenetic ODN (iSN40) that promotes the differentiation of mouse osteoblasts and induces the expression of genes required for bone formation. This discovery offers a promising treatment option for osteoporosis, which affects 200 million people worldwide.
Research found that e-cigarette users spent more on healthcare services, including hospital stays, ER visits, and doctor appointments. The study estimated $15.1 billion in annual healthcare expenditures attributable to e-cigarette use in the US.
A novel contract proposed by UTD researchers could help alleviate key sources of conflict between restaurants and food-delivery platforms. The study found that standard contractual relationships have two key issues: simple revenue sharing and strain on restaurant operations.
Daily gabapentin treatment restored fine motor functions in mice's upper extremities and continued to show functional improvements even after treatment was stopped. The drug blocks the activity of a protein that hinders re-growth of axons, enabling post-stroke central nervous system repair to progress in a coordinated way.
Scientists at Osaka University have invented a flexible sheet sensor that can detect changes in water temperature and presence of contaminants without disrupting the flow. The technology uses an embedded carbon nanotube film as a photodetector layer, enabling continuous monitoring and non-disruptive sampling.
Research published in eNeuro found that physical consequences, such as slipping, can improve motor learning by refining movement responses to mistakes. Participants who experienced a slip improved their ability to adjust steps to new situations, demonstrating better generalization of learned skills.
A large-scale analysis of daytime surgeries performed by surgeons who operated the previous night found no correlation with increased risk of in-hospital mortality or major complications. The study, involving nearly 500,000 operations, suggests that surgeons can perform safely and effectively even after a night shift.
A new study suggests that growing up with dogs and in large families may lower the risk of inflammatory bowel disease. Exposure to dogs, particularly between ages 5-15, was linked to healthy gut permeability and a balanced immune response, which may help protect against Crohn's disease.
The study explores the interaction between sodium metal and organic materials using in situ photoelectron spectroscopy. Researchers found that fluorination promotes sodiophilic sites, providing insights for designing fluorine-containing electrolyte additives and hosts to protect sodium metal anodes.
The current monkeypox outbreak is more widespread than previous ones outside of Africa, with significant cases reported in Europe, the UK, and North America. A notable increase in cases among men who have sex with men has been observed, although the cause remains unclear.
Shellfish farmers in California are adapting to ocean acidification by diversifying their operations and relying on scientific resources to pinpoint environmental factors contributing to large die-off events. Growers also emphasize the need for policy changes, such as adjusting regulatory requirements and permitting processes.
Researchers discovered that salamanders rely on aerial postures similar to skydivers to slow and direct their descent. These 'parachuting' animals use fine-scale control to maintain upright body postures and execute banking turns.
Researchers found that RNA granules containing the protein DDX6 decrease in size as neurons mature but increase in number. They also discovered that another protein, Staufen2, plays a role in forming these granules, which can store inactive mRNAs. This process helps regulate neural activity and gene expression in neurons.
The American Heart Association has updated its guidelines for ambulatory blood pressure monitoring in children and adolescents, providing new evidence-based recommendations for clinical practice. The update aims to improve cardiovascular disease prevention and management in young populations.
Research finds human activity is behind the warmest and wettest winter on record in northwest Russia, raising flood and drought risks. The North Atlantic Oscillation's impact is reduced compared to greenhouse gas emissions.
Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have made important discoveries on the crucial role of malnutrition in global tuberculosis, highlighting how gut infections impair treatment outcomes. A new funding partnership will train Tanzanian postdoctoral researchers to work specifically on this intersection.
A family-based randomized controlled trial by University of Southern Denmark researchers found that reducing recreational screen media use increases daily physical activity in children. Children in the intervention group showed an average of 45 minutes more physical activity per day compared to those in the control group.
Scientists have found that bacterial DNA is present in the venom of snakes and spiders, which could lead to infection in victims. The study also shows that these bacteria have mutated to resist the venom, highlighting the need for clinicians to consider treating snakebite victims for infection too.
Researchers found that noisy jackdaws use a 'democratic' decision-making process to coordinate their daily takeoffs, relying on the intensity of calls to achieve consensus. The findings suggest that changes in calling intensity serve as a reliable source of information for synchronization.
A new computer-aided diagnostic tool, Deep-Lung Parenchyma-Enhancing (DLPE), uses artificial intelligence to reveal signs of pulmonary fibrosis in COVID long-haulers, helping to explain respiratory symptoms and improve disease management.
Researchers discovered that wandering salamanders, living in redwoods, have developed aerial behaviors to avoid predators, including parachuting and gliding. They are able to maintain control and make horizontal maneuvers, defying expectations of their sluggish nature.
The number of unemployed people with disabilities remained relatively steady at 590,000, while labor force participation rate showed minimal movement. Unemployment for people without disabilities has shown a slow but steady decline over the past two years.
A study by Osaka Metropolitan University researchers found ketamine boosts IGF-1, a brain molecule linked to depression. The independent pathways of IGF-1 and BDNF suggest a novel target for developing rapid-acting antidepressants.
Researchers at Princeton University developed a new pixel-by-pixel printing method that creates composite shapes, colors, and mechanical abilities using curable elastic polymers. The technique, inspired by inkjet printers, uses age-old fluid dynamics to fabricate precise and robust structures without complicated machinery.
Researchers developed photocontrolable drugs that can increase and decrease heart rate by using light of different colors, similar to approved beta-blockers. This study demonstrates the potential of photopharmacology in future therapies with reduced side effects.
A team of researchers found that jackdaws use a form of 'consensus decision-making' to decide when to leave their roosts en masse. By combining recorded calls with tests in which pre-recorded calls were played, the team discovered that birds effectively 'cast a vote' through calling out to reach a consensus.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have developed a novel AI algorithm, Graph Transformer (GTP), to classify lung cancer subtypes based on whole slide images. The framework outperforms current state-of-the-art methods and has implications beyond digital pathology for computer vision applications.
Researchers at UC Riverside have found that common microbial communities can degrade a stubborn class of PFAS called fluorinated carboxylic acids (FCAs) by breaking the carbon-fluorine bond under anaerobic conditions. This breakthrough could lead to new methods for environmental remediation and reduce the harm caused by PFAS.
Researchers at Yale University have discovered a new mechanism by which some NSAIDs reduce inflammation, explaining why similar drugs produce different clinical outcomes. This discovery may inform how NSAIDs are used in the future and could lead to new applications for these painkillers.
Researchers developed a genetic test that diagnoses primary immunodeficiency disorders (PID), revealing inherited genetic defects in nearly half of patients. The test uses next-generation sequencing technology to identify specific gene variants associated with PID, enabling targeted treatment and earlier intervention for family members.
Scientists at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a low-cost gel film that can pull water from the air in dry climates, producing up to 6 liters of water per day. The film uses renewable cellulose and konjac gum, making it an affordable solution for communities struggling with water shortages.
KAUST researchers have developed a method to manufacture high-performance flexible heaters using graphene domains in nanoscale-thick graphite films. The heaters can reach temperatures of several hundred degrees within seconds when applying a small voltage, and they exhibit excellent stability and cooling rates.
Researchers at UC Davis plan to screen hundreds of compounds to discover nonhallucinogenic treatments for substance use disorders. The study aims to understand the basic mechanisms by which these compounds impact addiction and develop more effective treatments.
A large-scale study has found that men with prostate cancer have a 50% higher risk of developing serious and potentially fatal blood clots during the five years after their diagnosis. This increased risk is significant because venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a leading cause of death among people with cancer.
New research develops a low-index BaF2 thin film-based microspectrometer technology for LWIR spectral sensing. The study demonstrates the use of flat and stress-free free-standing distributed Bragg reflectors (DBRs) for high-performance wavelength discrimination in the long-wave infrared region.
A recent study published in Frontiers in Microbiology reveals the correlation between sugar identity and flexibility in SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein. The researchers used high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy and computer simulation to understand the impact of glycans on antibody recognition and protein shielding.
A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics examines the association between patient race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic disadvantage with missed telemedicine visits for pediatric patients during COVID-19. The findings suggest that these factors disproportionately contribute to higher no-show rates among disadvantaged populations.
A new study has found that a one-off treatment with senolytics can prevent premature ageing and frailty caused by cancer radiotherapies. The treatment was tested in mice and showed improved health conditions, providing new hope for cancer survivors.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new technique for extracting hydrogen gas from liquid carriers, making it faster, less expensive and more energy efficient. The new method uses sunlight and a reusable photocatalyst to release hydrogen molecules, reducing the need for rhodium and lowering production costs.
A population-scale study found COVID-19 vaccination is effective in most cancer patients but offers lower protection and wanes quickly. Vaccine effectiveness was lower (65.5%) in cancer patients compared to the general population (69.8%), with higher hospitalization and death risks despite vaccination.
The June special issue highlights the impact of structural racism on mental health and proposes community-wide interventions to address disparities. Research prioritization is also discussed to advance mental health inequity research.
Veterinarians at UC Davis have developed an AI model that can predict Leptospirosis in dogs with high accuracy, outperforming traditional testing methods. The model uses machine-learning algorithms to analyze historical data and provide timely predictions, which can be an online resource for veterinarians.
A recent study published in Nature Communications has significantly extended the understanding of one type of protein degrader technology, expanding on current validation strategies. This breakthrough could boost the number of drugs successfully entering human trials, particularly for hard-to-treat cancers.
Researchers mapped out the natural history of drywood termites, revealing oceanic voyages that accelerated their evolution and confirmed recent dispersals via humans. The study also challenged the common assumption of primitive lifestyles, highlighting the diversity and complexity of termite social behavior.
A new method called sensPIV has been developed to measure both flow and oxygen concentrations simultaneously at the smallest scales. This breakthrough allows researchers to study how corals generate flows, increasing oxygen transport, and has potential applications in life sciences, microfluidics, and medicine.
A study published in BMC Medicine found that watching less than an hour of TV per day can lower the risk of coronary heart disease by up to 16%. The research suggests that limiting TV viewing could be a useful lifestyle change for individuals with a high genetic predisposition to the condition.
Researchers found that planetary systems around binary stars form differently than those around single stars, potentially creating new targets for extraterrestrial life. The study also suggests that comets could play a key role in delivering organic molecules necessary for life.
A new statistical method for brain mapping is proposed to improve accuracy by removing redundant associations. The study uses simulations to test the method's performance on fake diseases and scores, revealing its superiority over existing approaches. The next step is to apply this refined analysis to study Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers assessed COVID-19 prevention measures in NYC public schools against the Delta variant, finding secondary attack rates and transmission patterns among students, teachers, and staff. Vaccination status played a significant role in preventing delta variant transmission.
Rice University bioengineers are developing optogenetic tools to study B. subtilis' stress response, combining experimental results with theoretical findings to understand genetic design principles. This research aims to reveal clues about bacterial survival and potentially lead to new antimicrobial drugs.
A study by researchers at UCSF found that e-cigarette use costs the US $15 billion annually in healthcare expenditures, with each user paying around $2,000 extra per year compared to non-users. The study, published in Tobacco Control, highlights the growing concern over health care costs associated with e-cigarette use.
The National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS) has provided insights into the trajectory of late-life functioning, accommodation needs, and consequences of disability for individuals, families, and society. The study's findings have implications for reducing disability and enhancing quality of life for older Americans.
Research published by the American Psychological Association finds that denial of structural racism is associated with anti-Black prejudice and less racial empathy. People who deny structural racism are more likely to endorse beliefs that societal inequality is acceptable and report fewer intentions to engage in social justice behaviors.
A new tool called DeepSqueak uses deep learning to identify marine mammal calls with high accuracy, even in noisy environments. The tool was originally developed for rodent ultrasound signals but has been adapted to detect sounds at other frequencies, including humpback whales and delphinids.
Researchers analyzed nearly 3.5 million patients and found no disparity in elective surgery case volume reductions among racial groups, with Black, Asian, and other non-white individuals showing similar decreases as white counterparts. The study challenges existing assumptions about the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare disparities.
Researchers discovered a previously unknown mutation in a child with epilepsy that affects the functioning of ion channels, which are crucial for brain function. The mutation has been found to decrease the function of normal proteins as well, highlighting the importance of studying genetic mutations.
A review of 38 randomized controlled trials found that counseling patients about contraceptive use and providing contraceptives increases use without increasing STI risk or reducing condom use. The interventions also decrease unintended pregnancy in trials designed to evaluate this outcome.
A global shortage of health workers poses a significant threat to effective health coverage worldwide. The study estimates that over 43 million more health workers are needed to meet targets for universal health coverage.
Researchers at Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have developed a single-material diamond mirror that withstood a 10-kilowatt Navy laser without damage. The mirror's unique nanostructure design makes it 98.9% reflective, potentially enabling more robust high-power lasers for various applications.
Researchers at Aalto University have discovered a dedicated neural pathway in the retina that can detect even the dimmest shadows possible. This breakthrough could lead to unprecedented resolution in probing visual diseases.
A new study reveals that foreign fishing fleets and international seafood trade are taking fish nutrients away from malnourished populations, exacerbating nutrition insecurity. The research found that over 60% of countries receive net gains in fish-derived nutrients through international trade, while a third have net losses.
Researchers have developed gene-edited tomatoes that can produce vitamin D3 through exposure to UVB light. The tomato leaves naturally contain provitamin D3, which accumulates in the fruit after editing. This breakthrough could help millions of people with vitamin D insufficiency and provide a plant-based source of vitamin D3.
A new energy-efficient way to produce hydrogen gas from ethanol and water has been developed, enabling on-site production at fueling stations. This innovation could make clean hydrogen fuel a more viable alternative for gasoline-powered cars, reducing the need for hazardous high-pressure hydrogen gas transportation.
A UAB research team successfully monitored microplastic behavior in Drosophila larvae, revealing interactions with microbiota and intestinal barrier. The study confirms the fly's relevance as a model for studying nanoplastic effects on human health.
A new paper outlines a universal protocol for secure cryptocurrency exchanges, addressing issues of honesty, privacy, and third-party reliance. The protocol ensures honest swaps across all current and future cryptocurrencies, with no need for specialized features or high computing power.
A recent study found that nearly one-quarter of young sarcoma patients continue to use opioids after treatment is completed. The researchers highlight the need for monitoring and age-appropriate strategies to manage pain while minimizing opioid exposure.
The BiCIKL Project has successfully integrated FAIR data on biodiversity for a year, focusing on creating a more transparent and efficient research ecosystem. The project aims to link different sources of biodiversity data across various infrastructures and open data platforms.