The CONVINCE project, funded by €4 million, focuses on developing cognitive deliberation capabilities in autonomous robots to enhance safe and robust operation in unstructured environments. The goal is to enable robots to adapt to their surroundings and tasks autonomously without human intervention.
A research group led by Yali Zhang has discovered the molecular basis for the sense of alkaline taste in fruit flies. They identified a previously unknown chloride ion channel, named Alka, which plays a critical role in detecting and avoiding high-pH food.
Researchers found that people who ranked high in JOMO also reported high levels of social anxiety, but with mixed results on the nature of JOMO. High JOMO scorers were more likely to report moderate feelings of loneliness despite not being socially anxious.
A study by Indian Institute of Science researchers found that enhanced recombination in the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant resulted in new mutations affecting viral proteins, particularly those involved in host-cell binding. These mutations enabled the virus to evade immune defenses and infect host cells more efficiently.
A new study reveals that the SPUR tool, developed by Kingston University and Observia, can accurately predict hospital admissions and early readmissions in people with Type 2 Diabetes. The tool has been found to be effective in reducing hospital admissions and improving patient outcomes.
A research team from MedUni Vienna found that only neutralizing antibodies can inform us about protection against new infections. The study discovered a previously unknown weak point of the virus, which is a conserved site on the surface of the virus.
Researchers at Harvard University developed a novel RNA sense-and-respond circuit, DART VADAR, which utilizes an enzyme to detect specific molecular markers of disease and cell types. This enables highly specific treatments for various diseases by triggering the translation of therapeutic genetic payloads.
A recent study by researchers at Georgetown University found a significant association between discrimination and frailty among Black cancer survivors. The study, which surveyed over 2,200 participants, revealed that those who experienced more discrimination had higher frailty scores, regardless of their socioeconomic status.
A research review found that COVID-19 lacks canine data, fueling concerns about the risk of pet animals serving as virus reservoirs. The lack of testing has made it difficult to understand the susceptibility of dogs to the new variants.
Numerical simulations reveal that spherical particles grow with dynamic oscillation during electrodeposition, influenced by applied electrical potential difference, electrolyte concentration, and diffusion coefficient. The oscillation state results from a competition between electrochemical reactions and ion transport.
Researchers at Rutgers University have made significant breakthroughs in understanding the electrical properties of Y-ball, a mysterious 'strange metal'. The study reveals unusual fluctuations in the material's charge and provides new insights into its behavior, which could pave the way for next-generation quantum technologies.
Georgia Institute of Technology researchers have developed a new treatment for lymphedema using nanoparticles that can repair lymphatic vessel pumping. The approach delivers a drug to help lymphatic vessels pump, targeting the problem rather than regrowing new vessels.
Researchers from Japan create a new model for estimating transepidermal water loss, providing a more realistic picture of skin water loss. The new method uses confocal laser microscopy and Raman spectroscopy to measure stratum corneum thickness and water content.
North Carolina State University researchers have found a way to separate blended cotton and polyester fabric using enzymes, which could lead to more efficient recycling of the fabric's component materials. The process requires multiple steps, but can effectively separate cotton from polyester in under 48 hours.
Researchers at the University of Sydney and the University of Basel have demonstrated the ability to manipulate and identify small numbers of interacting photons with high correlation. This achievement represents a significant step towards advancing medical imaging and quantum computing technologies.
A study by University of Utah researchers found that birds eat fewer invertebrates in coffee plantations than in forests, threatening their survival. The disturbance of ecosystems significantly impacts dietary options, leading to reduced survival and population declines.
A Rutgers University study found that excess calories during development can alter the brain and lead to adult overeating. Mice born to overweight mothers were more likely to become obese as adults when given access to unhealthy food. On the other hand, their offspring from lean mothers stayed slim on healthy food.
A new study by Oregon State University finds that Douglas-fir trees in the Klamath Mountains are experiencing a 'decline spiral' due to multiple factors, including climate change and drought. The research developed a tool to assess tree risk and predict mortality events.
Researchers at UNIGE have designed a quantum material that can be controlled by curving space, allowing for ultra-fast electromagnetic signal processing and potential applications in high-speed communication systems. The material's unique properties enable the creation of new sensors and potentially unlock new avenues in exploration.
A recent study found that organophosphate pesticides used to control desert locusts in Eastern Africa had devastating impacts on honey production, pollinators, and ecosystems. The campaign led to a 78% decline in honey production and an estimated loss of US$500 million in revenue.
A new study has found that SARS-CoV-2 infection damages the CD8+ T cell response, which is crucial for fighting the virus. Vaccination after infection can still provide protection, but booster shots may be needed to boost immune-cell responses.
Researchers at Ruhr University Bochum detected deviations in 37 out of 40 chips, with a high detection rate achieved through clean room conditions and optimized algorithms. The team released their findings and analysis tools online for further study.
Three real-world studies published in the Journal of Hepatology and JHEP Reports demonstrate that bulevirtide is well-tolerated and safe for treating chronic hepatitis delta. Long-term suppressive therapy with BLV monotherapy has the potential to reduce viral replication and improve liver function in difficult-to-treat patients.
University of Minnesota-led researchers developed a new process for making spintronic devices with unmatched energy efficiency and memory storage density. The breakthrough enables smaller devices to be scaled down to sizes as small as five nanometers.
Researchers found that compact, low-power jets can disrupt gas distribution and accelerate it, leading to unexpected turbulence. The study challenges previous beliefs about the impact of low-power jets on galaxies.
Researchers developed an image analysis algorithm that can automatically measure Arabidopsis thaliana stomatal aperture with high accuracy and speed. The technology also includes a portable imaging device for non-destructive observation using intact plants, allowing for rapid measurement of subtle changes in stomatal aperture.
Developing postoperative delirium is associated with a 40% faster rate of cognitive decline compared to those who do not develop delirium. The study, which followed 560 older adults for up to six years, found that delirium influences every time point and is linked to sharper drops in cognition and faster declines over time.
A study published in Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology found that the incidence of type 1 diabetes among Finnish children increased by 16% during the pandemic. Researchers believe that social isolation and lockdowns rather than SARS-CoV-2 infection may have contributed to this increase.
A team of researchers from Syracuse University has developed a tiny, nano-sized sensor that can detect protein biomarkers in a sample at single-molecule precision. The sensor is capable of identifying and quantifying specific proteins associated with various hematological malignancies and solid tumors.
A new study finds that ocean warming can impact the growth, metabolic rate, and gene activity of newly hatched clownfish larvae. The researchers found that warmer temperatures led to faster growth rates, higher metabolic rates, and changes in gene expression.
A new Boston University study suggests that repetitive blows to the head in tackle football may lead to less white matter in the brain, potentially causing impulsive behavior and other cognitive issues. Researchers found players who start playing at a young age or play for over 11 years are at greater risk.
Scientists uncover evidence of median eyes in trilobites, which were previously unknown due to fossilization process. The discovery sheds light on the evolutionary history of arthropods and provides a new tool for classifying species.
A comprehensive product stewardship scheme has been proposed to address the environmental impact of solar panel disposal in Australia. The plan includes recycling steps, serial numbers for tracking, and legislation to ensure environmentally friendly disposal.
Researchers from Universiteit van Amsterdam's Leugenlab have developed a new approach to lie detection that focuses on the level of detail in the story told by the liar. In a series of lab experiments, participants were able to consistently distinguish lies from truths when relying solely on the amount of detail in the story, outperfor...
Researchers have developed a new concept for superconducting microwave low-noise amplifiers with significantly lower power consumption. The SIS amplifier has been successfully demonstrated with high-performance gain below 5 GHz and comparable noise temperature to cooled semiconductor amplifiers, with potential applications in radio ast...
Researchers have developed a high-speed, 3D gigapixel microscope that stitches together dozens of cameras to capture life in unprecedented detail. The device enables the recording of differences in pitch and depth, allowing scientists to study zebrafish behavior and developmental biology without harming the animals.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have made significant progress in treating multiple myeloma using chimeric antigen receptor therapy (CAR-T cell therapy), which has shown a median progression-free survival of 13.3 months compared to 4.4 months for standard treatment regimens.
A study by Tokyo Medical and Dental University reveals that chronic kidney disease promotes vascular calcification by altering signaling molecules in blood vessel walls. The researchers identified four microRNAs that target a key pathway driving calcification, providing potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for both diseases.
A worldwide study found that non-English-language literature was extensively used in national reports but failed to be reflected in global reports. The team suggests that international collaboration and multilingual databases can help develop more effective conservation science.
A new study suggests that some people's moral values can lead to sympathy for alleged perpetrators and anger toward victims in cases of workplace sexual harassment. This bias can result in perpetrators going unpunished and victims facing backlash for reporting misconduct.
A new head-worn device allows users to control a mobile robot via head motion and speech recognition, requiring fewer fine motor skills than existing technologies. In a human study, participants performed household and self-care tasks with low error rates, minimal effort, and high perceived ease of use.
A new study found that managers target loyal workers for exploitative practices, such as unpaid work and extra job tasks. The study suggests that loyalty can lead to a vicious cycle where loyal workers are more likely to be exploited and then become even more loyal, making them more susceptible to exploitation in the future.
HvSWEET11b transports both sugar and cytokinin in developing barley grains, essential for grain growth and yield. The dual function of HvSWEET11b is crucial for plant adaptation to changing environments.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that both more persistent and severe food insecurity were linked to lower test scores and fewer years of education completed. Even mild forms of food insecurity can be detrimental to children's educational outcomes.
The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) is pleased to announce the availability of Discover BMB 2023 press materials. The meeting features groundbreaking research on various topics, including a new form of omega-3 that may prevent visual decline with Alzheimer's disease and markers of PTSD in the blood. Addi...
Researchers identified key Hox genes as controllers of stem cells involved in both forming and repairing bone. Increasing the activity of these genes restored fracture repair capacity in aging mice by 32.5%, highlighting their potential for treating bone-healing deficiencies.
The study identifies the origin of winegrowing as one of the earliest human activities, with evidence suggesting that grapes for wine production and table grapes have a shared origin. The research also highlights the impact of climate change on grapevine domestication, revealing genetic diversity across the globe.
Researchers develop AI-designed synthetic polymers that mimic specific functions of natural proteins, working as well as the real protein and easier to synthesize. The polymers could be a game-changer for biomedical applications, including drug delivery and photosynthesis.
The study simultaneously measures topography and ion concentration profiles of lithium ion batteries during charging and discharging, revealing correlations between structural and ion concentration changes. This enables the evaluation of battery performance and optimization of operating conditions.
Research found that inbreeding is a major factor contributing to the decline of the endangered Southern Resident killer whale population. The study, published in Nature Ecology and Evolution, indicates that inbred individuals have lower survival rates and birth rates compared to those with lower levels of inbreeding.
Researchers at Waseda University developed a four-wheeled robot capable of sowing, pruning, and harvesting in dense vegetation, improving efficiency by 49% compared to manual control. The robot's advanced maneuvering system reduces damage to plants and increases farming productivity in various environments.
Researchers found that Tsimané and Mosetén adults experienced less brain atrophy and improved cardiovascular health compared to industrialized populations. These findings suggest an optimal lifestyle balance between daily exertion and food abundance may be key to healthy brain aging.
Scientists at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and NYU Grossman School of Medicine discovered that specialized protein complexes in the nuclei of cells play a commanding role in activating T cells to attack cancer and triggering exhaustion. Targeting these complexes with gene-cutting technologies or targeted drugs may reduce exhaustion and...
A new approach to describing network connections can help predict system strong and weak points, crucial for understanding disease spread and communication networks. Researchers found that mapping hierarchies and incoherence within a system enables prediction of strong and weak connections.
Researchers found that the spotted lanternfly population is largely due to human-mediated dispersal via transportation. The insects can hitchhike on cars, trucks, and trains, making this a critical time of year for monitoring and removal. Public education and outreach are crucial to slowing the spread.
A study found that human-caused mortality is the leading source of death for mountain lions in California, primarily driven by conflicts with humans over livestock and collisions with vehicles. The research also suggests that human tolerance plays a crucial role in conserving large carnivores in landscapes shared with humans.
Research from Universitat Oberta de Catalunya finds that trust has a positive impact on teleworking performance, while social isolation and fatigue can have negative effects. Managers play a crucial role in facilitating the social integration of remote workers to prevent these issues.
A review of 182 nations found that almost all countries penalize those seeking an abortion (134 countries), providers (181 countries), and people assisting in the procedure (159 countries). The study highlights the need for better access to safe abortions and increased support for trained providers.
Research reveals that financial landlords, including private equity firms and institutional investors, own nearly one in eight rental units in Montreal. This trend is linked to gentrification, displacement, aggressive rent increases, and eviction practices, particularly affecting precarious, racialized, and student groups.
Researchers at UCLA successfully used base editing to correct a mutation causing rare immune deficiency CD3 delta SCID. The treatment corrected an average of 71% of patient stem cells and allowed them to produce fully functional T cells, suggesting long-term persistence of corrected blood stem cells.
A study published in Gut journal found that COVID-19 patients experienced gastrointestinal symptoms more frequently than non-infected patients. The research also discovered a higher incidence of irritable bowel syndrome among infected individuals, with symptoms lasting up to 12 months after hospitalization.
A recent study published in The Science of Nature found that parasites and body condition are crucial factors in determining the vulnerability of fish to angling. The research revealed that fish with high body condition and parasites, as well as those with low body condition but no parasites, were less likely to be caught by anglers.
A new study from British Columbia found that an increase in gestational diabetes rates can be largely attributed to changes in screening practices. After adjusting for screen completion and population factors, diagnoses of gestational diabetes increased by less than one-quarter over a 15-year period.
Women surgeons remain underrepresented among NIH-funded surgeon-scientists over a 25-year period, despite early career success in receiving funding. This disparity underscores the necessity of targeted support to create a more diverse surgical research workforce.
A team of researchers has demonstrated the ability to dynamically steer incoherent light pulses using a semiconductor device, paving the way for applications such as holograms, remote sensing, and self-driving cars. The technique uses metasurfaces to manipulate light waves, offering a low-power alternative to traditional laser beams.
Researchers found that hummingbirds can enter into deep or shallow torpor, and their ability to do so is tied to their evolutionary conquest of mountain habitats. Torpor duration varies depending on ambient temperature and physical condition.
A new stigma-coping intervention was found to increase engagement in substance use treatment and improve ART adherence among people with HIV who inject drugs. The intervention reduced avoidance of healthcare settings, leading to higher chances of starting ART and engaging with treatment.
Researchers identified fluctuations in climate and ocean conditions as the main drivers of entanglement risk to whales in Dungeness crab fishing gear. The study provides new tools for managing fisheries while minimizing impact on whale populations.
Researchers found that certain personality traits, such as emotional stability and conscientiousness, are consistently associated with people's satisfaction in life, social connections, and career. These findings suggest that personality plays a stable role in shaping overall satisfaction across the adult lifespan.
Scientists detected the emergence of extensively drug-resistant (XDR) Shigella sonnei strains in France, primarily among men who have sex with men. XDR isolates are resistant to virtually all antibiotics, requiring complex treatment and hospitalization.
A team of researchers has discovered a protein deficiency in the neurons of patients with neurodegenerative diseases, such as ALS and Alzheimer's disease. They have developed an approach to fix this deficiency using antisense oligonucleotides that can correct abnormal RNA processing and restore stathmin-2 protein levels.
A study found a consistent and widespread decline in activity following the onset of COVID-19 in the US, with vulnerable populations at higher risk. The researchers discovered that even after most COVID-19-related restrictions were relaxed, daily step counts persisted at a lower level.
Research found that pregnancy complications such as preterm delivery, hypertensive disorders, and gestational diabetes are associated with increased risk of mortality. Women who experienced these complications had a higher risk of all-cause mortality, with some complications linked to specific causes of death like cardiovascular diseases.
A recent review article highlights the significant impact of cancer on Hispanic patients and their caregivers, citing communication barriers, financial difficulties, and sociocultural issues. The study estimates 126,000 new cancer cases diagnosed yearly in Hispanics, placing a substantial burden on family members and friends.
Researchers have developed a technique for accelerating ions with lasers using transparent targets, resulting in ultra-short beams ideal for cancer treatment and radiobiology studies. The method has been successfully replicated at two independent laser facilities, showcasing its robustness and potential applications.
Researchers propose a new cognitive framework explaining how infants adapt their behavior to different social contexts. The study suggests that infants integrate perceptual information, memories, and physiological states to determine optimal behavior through value-driven decision-making.
A study by the University of Helsinki found that non-fearful and sociable cat personalities, as well as clean litterboxes, can decrease litterbox issues. The research identified 34 variables associated with two behavioural traits: house soiling and litterbox fussiness.
Researchers develop unsupervised machine learning algorithm to classify osteosarcoma at diagnosis based on gene expression modules. This approach enables personalized treatment strategies for osteosarcoma patients.
A recent study by Kennesaw State University biologist Whitney Preisser found that a decrease in parasites in U.S. waters may signal potential danger for fish and other wildlife due to changes in water temperature, hinting at an ecological threat impacting all species.
A recent study led by Boston University researchers found that payments designed to motivate eco-friendly behavior often don't reconcile the tension between agricultural production and the planet's health. However, including more women in decision-making boosted cooperation between farmers on environmental issues and increased output.
Researchers have developed a method to stabilize human blood clotting Factor VIII in a dry state using tardigrade proteins, enabling access to critical medicine in austere conditions. This breakthrough could lead to life-saving treatments available worldwide without refrigeration.
Researchers created a three-dimensional structure that mimics bone and houses osteosarcoma cells beside immune cells, finding increased inflammation reduces chemotherapy effectiveness. The study highlights the importance of the tumor microenvironment in disease progression and treatment.
Research suggests that an underactive immune response may explain the link between obesity and severe COVID-19. Obese patients with COVID-19 have been found to have blunted inflammatory responses, producing suboptimal levels of molecules needed to fight the infection.
Cases of Candida auris, a highly contagious fungal infection, rose drastically between 2019 and 2021, with an increase in echinocandin-resistant cases. The findings emphasize the need for improved detection and infection control practices to prevent the spread of C auris.
A first-of-its-kind study found that mass and active shooters in California have distinct patterns of buying guns compared to other legal purchasers. The researchers identified several patterns, including pre-attack planning and a desire for harder-to-trace firearm purchases.
Scientists at Kyoto University have established a new experimental method to examine ultra-light dark matter, addressing the challenging problem of detection. By applying millimeter-wave sensing technology in cryogenic conditions, they were able to detect dark photons with a mass range previously unexplored.
Most treatments offered to teenagers with persistent back pain are outdated and focus solely on physical factors, ignoring the impact of mental health and lifestyle on back pain. The study calls for a more holistic approach to treating back pain in teens, considering sleep, mood, stress, and relationships.
A recent survey found that patients overwhelmingly support receiving test results immediately, even if their provider has not yet reviewed them. Most respondents (90%) preferred receiving results through the patient portal as soon as they were available, and nearly all (96%) indicated a preference for timely release.
A study found that increased availability of fruit and vegetables results in lower levels of raised blood pressure nationwide. Many countries, particularly low-income nations, face limited access to fruits and vegetables, increasing the risk of higher blood pressure.
Researchers have developed a method to reduce the energy payback time of photoelectrochemical water splitting, making it more sustainable and competitive. The approach involves producing not only green hydrogen but also methyl succinic acid, which can be used as an intermediate product.
Researchers found that federal-local immigration enforcement policies significantly increase violent victimization risk among Latinos, contradicting their purpose of enhancing public safety. The study analyzed NCVS data from 2005-2014 and confirmed individual-level factors as major sources of variation in violent victimizations.
A WCS-coauthored study reveals global mountain forests are vanishing at an accelerating rate, with 78.1 million hectares lost worldwide between 2001-2018. Protected areas played a crucial role in retaining forest habitat and conserving wildlife, but other conservation strategies must be considered to safeguard mountain forests.
A University of British Columbia study suggests that jellyfish size can influence their nutritional value. The researchers found that larger jellyfish tend to have higher levels of healthy fats, making them potentially more nutritious.
A Taiwanese study found that pregnant women involved in road traffic collisions, even with minor injuries, are at increased risk of birth complications. Those on scooters faced significantly higher risks than those in cars. The study suggests providing educational materials about road traffic safety during pregnancy.
Researchers at KRICT have developed a chemical sorting technology that separates polyester from mixed waste fabrics, allowing for clean and recyclable polyester feedstock. This innovation has the potential to significantly reduce environmental impact and promote circularity in textile recycling.
A study at Imperial College London used advanced brain imaging to track DMT's effects on brain activity before, during, and after the experience. Increased connectivity across the brain and dysregulation of high-level brain systems were found in areas linked with imagination.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have demonstrated the ability to dynamically steer light pulses from conventional, incoherent light sources using a semiconductor device. This breakthrough has significant implications for applications such as holograms, remote sensing, and self-driving cars.
Researchers find that beer flavor compounds change over time, regardless of packaging. Amber ale packaged in bottles showed greater variation during aging than cans, but IPA was more resistant due to its higher polyphenol content.
Professor Liyan Yang, a leading expert in financial markets and institutions, has been awarded the Bank of Canada's prestigious Fellowship Award. The award recognizes his groundbreaking research on investor interactions and its impact on regulatory policy and economic welfare.
Researchers found that immunotherapy can activate tumor-fighting T cells in nearby lymph nodes, potentially boosting efficacy against solid tumors. The study suggests leaving lymph nodes intact until after immunotherapy could improve treatment outcomes for patients with head and neck cancers.
A co-location model for cancer diagnostic services at a community health center in Boston reduced time to diagnosis from 32 days to 12 days. The program, which has been in operation for 12 years, was designed to bring oncology diagnostics and patient navigation services into the community health center.
A recent study found that the Amazon Rainforest in southwestern Brazil has experienced a significant increase in deforestation and burning, with 4,141 km² of forest destroyed between 2003 and 2019. The region's agricultural activities and infrastructure have contributed to this trend, posing a threat to conservation units and Indigenou...
Historian Yevette Richards explores how kinship networks fueled racist violence in northern Louisiana from Reconstruction to the 1940s. Her book project sheds new light on community ties and intimate relationships between victims and perpetrators.
Researchers have successfully applied speckle illumination to photoacoustic microscopy, reducing tissue damage and improving image reconstruction. The technique harnesses the power of structured illumination methods initially developed for optical microscopy, allowing for more efficient imaging with acoustic detection.
A new study found that a Food FARMacia program, which provided free and healthy foods to families in need, was associated with reduced childhood obesity outcomes and improved household food security. The program, which operated mobile pantries twice a month, showed a clinically significant decline in childhood obesity risk factors afte...
ISB researchers constructed a biological body mass index that offers a more accurate representation of metabolic health. The team found that even with no weight loss, individuals can be getting healthier biologically through positive lifestyle changes.
A study by IMBA researchers links muscle degeneration to a deficiency in the enzyme PCYT2, essential for lipid synthesis. PCYT2 depletion affects mitochondrial function and muscle energetics, highlighting the importance of lipid balance in muscle health.
African American cancer survivors who experienced high levels of discrimination showed greater signs of aging and frailty than those with lower levels. The study found that major discrimination increased rates of aging, leading to a greater risk of frailty.
A new study reveals that cross-sector coalitions can create effective policies, systems, and environments for change in addressing early childhood obesity. By bringing together individuals from government, public health, healthcare, and other arenas, coalitions can diffuse knowledge into social and professional networks, leading to inc...