Scientists at the Paul Scherrer Institute have precisely characterized the styrene oxide isomerase enzyme, enabling the production of valuable chemicals and drug precursors in an environmentally friendly manner. The enzyme's unique mechanism and high specificity make it a promising tool for green chemistry.
A study published in the Journal of American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry found that pharmacological treatment of ADHD reduced violence- and public-order related crimes among patients in the grey zone for treatment. However, it had no effect on other types of crimes. The study used a quasi-experimental design with populat...
A review study published in Nature Reviews Earth & Environment highlights the need for better monitoring of changes in soil and surrounding ecosystems after wildfires. This enhanced monitoring could inform decisions on treating drinking water sourced from burned areas, reforestation, and protecting workers against toxins.
Scientists have developed a functional model of thoracic aortic aneurysm using human cells in laboratory rats, offering new avenues for drug development and effective screening. The model successfully mimics dilation of the human aorta and has potential applications for treating this potentially fatal condition.
A young sperm whale's long-range migration across the Mediterranean poses significant threats to its survival due to busy straits and pollution. The study demonstrates the need for targeted protection at key locations to safeguard marine life in the region.
A new study from the University of Surrey suggests that reflecting on one's teenage years can provide valuable insights for young adults. Participants advised their younger selves to create a safe space, look around and take perspective, and look inwards and trust themselves.
Salk scientists develop new method to quantify synaptic features, revealing high precision of plasticity and up to 10 times more storage capacity. The technique uses information theory to analyze synapse pairs from a rat hippocampus, offering a scalable approach for studying brain function.
A new Northwestern University study found that technology alone resulted in worse weight loss compared to a combination of tech and telehealth coaching for obesity treatment. The study suggests that while technology has its benefits, it cannot replace the human touch for meaningful weight loss.
Scientists have discovered a way to break down styrene, a toxic plastic component, using microorganisms that produce an enzyme called styrene oxide isomerase. This enzyme accelerates the conversion of styrene into a less toxic compound, offering a potential solution for biodegradable plastics.
Researchers at Concordia University developed a novel framework to detect counterfeit coins by analyzing image features and patterns. The method uses fuzzy association rules mining and can be applied to detect other types of counterfeit items, such as fake goods and labels.
White and Hispanic people are most likely to be diagnosed with behavioral symptoms of dementia, but also receive potentially harmful drugs. The study found substantial racial disparities in dementia diagnosis and treatment, with non-white patients being underdiagnosed for treatable symptoms.
A new device uses small amounts of light to process information, offering significant energy improvements over conventional optical switches. This technology could enable quantum communications, providing a promising alternative for data security against rising cyberattacks.
Researchers have created a stem cell model to investigate neuroblastoma's origins, replicating the emergence of early cancer-like cells. Specific mutations in chromosomes 17 and 1, combined with MYCN gene overactivation, play a pivotal role in aggressive neuroblastoma development.
Scientists have discovered 17 new genes involved in clonal haematopoiesis, a process associated with ageing linked to increased risks of blood cancers. The findings highlight the clinical significance of these genes in driving mutant blood cell clones, offering new avenues for studying disease development and promoting healthier ageing.
A recent study found that cinematographic techniques can significantly increase user engagement with virtual environments and improve their aesthetic appeal. The researchers developed a new teleportation method for exploring virtual environments using principles of composition and continuity, commonly used in filmmaking.
A collaborative project between institutions across the US will provide comprehensive economic and market research to strengthen the aquaculture industry. The team aims to address regulatory complexities, input costs, and competition from imported seafood products.
A new survey reveals that three-quarters of US adults support using polygenic embryo screening to assess disease risk, while fewer approve its use for predicting traits. The results highlight the need for public education and conversation about the technology's limitations.
A new PET imaging biomarker, Gal-1, has been identified to predict the tumor responses before starting immune checkpoint blockade therapy. This enables targeted interventions and improves patient outcomes by facilitating patient stratification and optimizing immunotherapy.
A study from North Carolina State University found that environmentally caused alterations in the genome may contribute to Alzheimer's disease risk, particularly in Black people. The research identified stable epigenetic features that distinguish Alzheimer's brains from those without the disease.
A new study suggests a lower BMI threshold of 27 kg/m² may be more appropriate than the existing WHO BMI threshold (30 kg/m²) for middle-aged and older adults. This could lead to improved health outcomes for millions of older adults, as body fat percentage is a more accurate indicator of obesity.
Researchers at USTC discovered topological Kerr effects in 2D magnets CrVI6, which exhibit singular bumps similar to the topological Hall effect. The study provides a powerful means of characterization for revealing microscopic mechanisms of topological magnetic structures.
A study published in Clinical Oral Investigations found that people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often experience bruxism, or teeth grinding. The researchers emphasized the importance of collaboration between dentists and psychiatrists to diagnose and treat these patients effectively.
A wireless feedback system is comparable to a similar system with added coaching in achieving meaningful weight loss. The study suggests that technology alone may not produce clinically acceptable weight loss for most individuals, highlighting the need for stepped care with human coach support.
Researchers developed a shoulder actuation testbed for rehabilitation, integrating pneumatic and electromagnetic forces for high precision and transparency. The system allows for natural-like interaction forces during disturbances, making rehabilitation experiences more natural and effective.
Scientists at University Hospital Bonn develop innovative vitrification method to preserve eggs before cancer treatment, offering higher chances of successful pregnancies. The technique involves slow freezing and avoids ice crystals damage, allowing for undamaged egg return.
The University of Washington's STRIVE project aims to understand the troposphere and stratosphere, where the ozone layer resides, and their interface. This will help monitor changes in the ozone layer, air quality, and climate processes.
Scientists studied the nickel-tungsten alloy interface to understand its properties and behavior. The research revealed the formation of intermetallic compounds and diffusion-induced recrystallization regions, which significantly impact the material's mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties.
A University at Buffalo-led research team has found that the same genes whose mutations gave rise to a low functioning male gorilla reproductive system may also be responsible for human male infertility. Researchers identified 109 reproductive-related gorilla genes that are often mutated when present in infertile men.
Higher childhood body size may reduce breast cancer risk by forming less dense breast tissue, which is a known risk factor for the disease. The study found that over 50% of the protective effect is explained by changes in dense breast tissue.
Researchers find that carbon deposition on copper electrodes hinders CO2 reduction, leading to catalyst deactivation. The team elucidated the mechanism of carbon formation through controlled experiments.
A new UK-based trial found that text messages with financial incentives can help men with obesity lose weight, with an average of 4.8% body weight loss over 12 months. The study, which involved 585 men living with obesity, suggests that text messaging alone may not be as effective in promoting weight loss.
Researchers have identified over 2000 protein-coding genes that change significantly between summer and winter in the starfish's reproductive process. This study provides a promising breakthrough in understanding how crown-of-thorns starfish communicate during reproduction, which could lead to the development of natural pest control me...
A new study has revealed that high-income individuals have a 32% lower risk of post-stroke mortality. Those with higher education also face a 26% lower risk of death post-stroke.
Researchers developed an approach combining quantum mechanical density functional theory and artificial intelligence to predict high-temperature superconducting materials. Over 120 structures with superior properties were found, including comparison to MgB2 at 39 K.
The BiCIKL project has shared lessons learned on improving data findability, accessibility, interoperability, and reusability (FAIR-ness) of various biodiversity data types. The project's policy briefs provide recommendations for policymakers and research funders to adopt best practices and guidelines.
A recent study by CNRS scientists analyzed the world's 100 largest MPAs and found that only a third of them offer real protection on a global scale. The study also reveals that unregulated and unmanaged areas account for a quarter of the surface area, with many MPAs allowing industrial activities incompatible with marine conservation.
The 2024 AHA/ACC Guideline on the Management of Lower Extremity Peripheral Artery Disease aims to improve patient outcomes by emphasizing timely diagnosis and treatment. Coordinated care among a multispecialty team is crucial in reducing the risk of amputation, heart attack, stroke, and death for individuals with PAD.
A research team led by Gloria Choi and Jun Huh will investigate how fever improves autism symptoms in an effort to develop therapies that replicate this effect. They plan to explore the molecular mechanisms behind the 'fever effect' and its potential applications for individuals with autism spectrum disorders.
Researchers found that conferences generate significant carbon dioxide emissions, with delegates burning half their annual CO2 budget in a week. Practical solutions like multihubbing and reducing travel distances are proposed to mitigate these emissions.
A team of Tohoku University researchers developed an environmentally friendly composite material from washi, showcasing improved strength and biodegradability. The new material boasts a tensile strength over 60% higher than pure PBS, making it suitable for sustainable applications.
Researchers investigated molecular changes in aging mouse sweat glands, finding 171 mRNAs enriched in secretory cells. Altered mRNA and protein abundance were associated with age-related declines in sweat gland function.
The newly discovered WASP-193b is the second least dense planet found to date, with a density comparable to that of cotton candy. Its low density cannot be explained by standard models of irradiated gas giants.
Assistant professor Yinsheng Guo is developing a comprehensive understanding of metal halide perovskites, promising semiconducting materials for energy technologies. He also seeks to transform how physical chemistry is taught using computational and experiential approaches.
A team of researchers discovered a line of chickens bred for water conservation that can thrive under heat stress while consuming significantly less water than standard broiler lines. The high water-efficient chickens showed a 32-point improvement in water conversion and six-point improvement in feed conversion.
A study found that dopamine inhibits the expression of HBV surface and e antigens in HepG2 cells, increasing interferon-stimulated gene 15 expression. The JAK/STAT pathway was also activated, leading to decreased HBV DNA and antigen expression in a mouse model.
Researchers at USTC developed a novel deep blue OLED design exhibiting BT.2020 color gamut, achieving high external quantum efficiencies of up to 33.1%. The design enables narrow-band emission of deep blue light and suppresses structural relaxation in the excited state.
Researchers at UC Santa Cruz discovered a secondary population of platelets that appears with aging, exhibiting hyperreactive behavior and unique molecular properties. This 'shortcut' pathway bypasses normal differentiation processes, producing problematic cells that can cause blood clotting diseases.
Engineers at the University of California San Diego used a new technique called MUSIC to map out interactions between chromatin and RNA in individual brain cells. The study found that some brain cells age faster and are more prevalent in individuals with Alzheimer's disease, particularly in women.
A snail-inspired robot has been developed to mimic the motion of a snail, featuring a sliding suction mechanism that enables it to slide on water and climb walls. The robot achieves comparable sliding ability as snails, carrying loads up to 1kg without energy consumption.
Researchers have revealed the intricate vocal patterns of Bornean orangutans, shedding light on their complex social behaviors and vocal communication. The study identified three distinct pulse types in their long calls, which play a crucial role in their communication across vast distances.
Nearly 5,000 sleep professionals will attend SLEEP 2024, featuring rapid-fire symposia, lectures, and poster presentations on topics like sleep health inequities and artificial intelligence in the clinical setting. The event will also include keynote addresses and awards ceremonies.
Research at USTC identified a novel mechanism by which the body regulates oxidative stress pressure, involving lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) that captures lipids to maintain lipid-oxidative homeostasis. LBP's activity helps prevent further peroxidation and maintains lipid balance.
A study of over 50,000 children with neurodevelopmental disorders reveals congenital abnormalities are at least ten times more common than in the general population. The analysis also maps medical consequences of new syndromes and offers opportunities for better guidance or treatment.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge and Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz found that 2023 was the hottest summer in the Northern Hemisphere in over two millennia, with temperatures 2.07C warmer than the coldest summer on record. The study uses tree ring data to show that global warming is having a profound impact, especially...
A University of Saskatchewan researcher is building tiny pseudo-organs from stem cells to help diagnose and treat Alzheimer's disease. These 'mini-brains' more accurately reflect a fully-fledged adult human brain, allowing for closer examination of neurological conditions.
A new study published in Nature Metabolism challenges the common perception that high lactate levels are bad for athletes. Lactate is found to be a normal product of metabolic activity, and it plays a crucial role in managing glucose levels after consuming carbohydrates.
Researchers at Saarland University have successfully synthesized the world's first 'heterobimetallic' sandwich complex, containing two different metal atoms. The discovery expands the class of sandwich molecules, which play a crucial role in industry and are being studied for their potential applications.
Scientists have discovered a new planet called WASP-193b that is 50% bigger than Jupiter yet has a density comparable to cotton candy. The planet's low density makes it an outlier among the over 5,400 planets discovered so far.
A recent study at the Beijing Observatory has homogenized daily temperature data for over a century, correcting biases and deriving more reliable conclusions about climate change. The study reveals a significant warming trend of 0.199℃ per decade, with winter showing the most pronounced increase.
Shifting excess nitrogen from rich countries to poor ones could increase crop production by 12%, with moderate/food insecure regions seeing significant gains in both fertilizer use and food output. Current levels of production could be maintained with only 53-68% of current nitrogen used through redistribution.