A Norwegian University of Science and Technology study published in PLOS One found that extremely low minimum wages and unemployment benefits can discourage people from working. The 'work incentive principle' aims to create a financial advantage for working over receiving benefits, but when both are very low, it loses its effectiveness.
The NOMIS Foundation is investing €20 million in ISTA to support groundbreaking projects that break new ground, starting in 2026. The five-year program aims to promote daring science and inspire positive change through new discoveries.
A new study reveals that forests take 1-2 centuries to shift tree populations in response to climate changes, highlighting the need for human intervention to keep them healthy. Assisted migration, such as planting warmer-climate trees in colder locations, may be an effective tool to aid forest adaptation.
The sea spider genome provides novel insights into the development of its characteristic body plan, including the extreme reduction of its abdomen. The study also sheds light on the genetic mechanisms underlying this process and offers a new reference genome for comparative studies.
Researchers investigated pulsed operation of perovskite LEDs to understand the role of mobile ions in maintaining stable light emission. They found a constant transient electroluminescence signal with higher intensity at higher duty cycles, which decreased with increasing duty cycle.
A new study led by Penn State researchers suggests that bumble bees' dietary preferences do not necessarily reflect their optimal nutritional needs. Despite choosing diets high in certain nutrients, the bees experienced negative fitness outcomes, including decreased egg-laying and unchanged body mass.
A study published in Neurobiology of Disease found that melanin degradation is impaired in genetically engineered mice lacking the SLC26A4 gene, leading to chronic inflammation and macrophage activation. The researchers propose a novel pathological cascade where melanin accumulation exacerbates hearing loss in pigmented individuals.
Queen Mary University of London scientists have invented a method to predict patient response to biological therapies, reducing the risk of ineffective treatments and improving patient wellbeing. The approach uses gene sequencing and machine learning on joint tissue samples to forecast treatment outcomes.
A global review of research on dam impacts found widespread disruptions to diadromous species, reducing abundance and genetic diversity. Dam removal is identified as the most consistently effective strategy for restoring connectivity and migration routes in fragmented rivers.
A new study explores the role of sleep in elite male cyclists during the Tour de France, finding that riders pushing hardest tend to sleep less and report lower quality sleep. Despite this, most riders still manage to get more than 8 hours of sleep per night.
Researchers from Karolinska Institutet have identified proliferating neural progenitors in the adult human hippocampus, confirming ongoing neuron formation. This discovery has implications for understanding brain changes during life and developing regenerative treatments for neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders.
A new study found that teen drivers spend an average of 21.1% of each trip viewing their mobile behind the wheel, with entertainment being the most common distraction. The study also revealed that many young drivers believe they can withstand the pressure to drive distracted and perceive a social norm of the behavior.
The International Conference on Modular Integrated Construction brought together experts from HKU, government, industry, and academia to share advancements in MiC. Key collaborations were announced with the HKSAR Government and Shenzhen authorities, aiming to expand collaboration networks and promote innovative applications of MiC.
A team of scientists, including HKU astrobiologist Professor Yiliang LI, are working together to identify regions on Mars suitable for microbial life. The mission aims to bring Martian samples back to Earth for detailed analysis using sophisticated instruments.
Researchers developed an in-silico meta-analysis tool to determine optimal laser irradiation conditions for treating nevus of Ota. The study found that picosecond laser treatment demonstrated higher efficacy and equivalent safety compared to nanosecond laser treatment.
Researchers from Penn University propose a five-member particle package, known as the 5-plet, that string theory cannot accommodate. This particle family is absent in any known string-based calculation, raising concerns about the framework's validity.
A study by the University of Hong Kong found that Mondays uniquely drive long-term biological stress in older adults, with a significant increase in stress hormone levels up to two months later. The 'Anxious Monday' effect is linked to dysregulation of the body's stress response system and has implications for heart health.
A new study by University of Missouri researchers found that states granting full practice authority to APRNs significantly improves health outcomes and increases access to care. In contrast, restricted practice laws impose financial burdens on patients and limit APRN autonomy.
Researchers demonstrate that brute-force search is necessary for specific computer puzzles, highlighting the importance of focusing on tractable instance classes. The study's findings have implications for fields like encryption, artificial intelligence, and scheduling.
A study by HZI researchers showed that specific strains of E. coli can displace multi-resistant bacteria from the gut, potentially preventing infections and containing their spread. The strains, which were tested in a mouse model, also proved effective against other resistant strains when combined with Klebsiella oxytoca.
Scientists successfully generated lung cells similar to alveolar epithelial type 2 (AT2) cells from mouse embryonic fibroblasts without using stem cell technology. The AT2-like cells were generated in just 7 to 10 days, a significant reduction compared to conventional methods.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology discovered that ship traffic triggers large methane emissions in shallow areas, including ports. The study found that cruise and container ships caused the most frequent and largest measured methane releases.
Djenet Bousbaine's research explores how the immune system responds to beneficial skin microbes, triggering wound-healing T cells and robust B cell responses. This phenomenon is observed in humans, non-human primates, and found to be evolutionary conserved.
Researchers from UK and Canada will study ways to reduce mining's environmental footprint and enhance efficiency across critical mineral value chains. The project aims to develop new geological models and exploration tools for rare earth element deposits, aiming to diversify the supply chain and ensure high environmental standards.
A new study reports the easy preparation of copper single atoms (Cu SACs) using a mesoporous silica KIT-6 templating agent. The resulting product exhibits excellent catalytic performance in CO2 cycloaddition reactions, with a yield of 91.7% and high turnover frequency (TOF).
Researchers analyzed single-cell transcriptomes from six mammalian species to identify key cell types involved in placenta development. They found a conserved genetic signature associated with invasive placenta cells, challenging the idea that this feature is unique to humans.
A new study found that targeted concussion treatment improved the quality of life for patients, with 83% reporting full recovery and normal HRQoL scores. The study also revealed that previous concussions were not associated with current poor quality of life scores.
A study by Karolinska Institutet found that an AI tool improved pathologists' assessments of tissue samples from skin cancer tumours, leading to more consistent results and better prognoses. The tool helped quantify tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, a biomarker in several cancers, including malignant melanoma.
A new drug developed by UNM researchers enables surgeons to better see nerves during surgery, improving safety and efficiency. The Phase 3 trial is currently underway and aims to assess whether the imaging agent improves overall surgical outcomes.
A new two-phase structure in lithium-manganese-rich cathodes has been discovered, promising to transform the way lithium-ion batteries are engineered. The unique structure exhibits different electrochemical properties and broadens understanding of these materials.
A study from the University of Southern California found that adults with hearing loss who used hearing aids or cochlear implants were more socially engaged and felt less isolated compared to those who didn't use them. The researchers also found that these devices can help reduce loneliness and improve social quality of life.
Archaeologists have discovered a diverse collection of 300,000-year-old wooden tools at the Gantangqing site in southwestern China, marking the earliest known evidence of complex wooden tool technology in East Asia. The tools were crafted primarily for digging and processing plants.
A study published in Chinese Neurosurgical Journal found that the Neuroform Atlas stent-assisted coiling procedure is safe and effective for treating intracranial aneurysms in arteries less than 2.5 mm in diameter, with favorable outcomes and low postoperative complication rates.
Researchers developed an AI-integrated diagnostic method that detects electrical faults in multiphase motors, enabling precise real-time severity grading. The method reduces maintenance costs and prevents undetected motor short circuits from escalating into life-threatening electrical fires.
Case Western Reserve University researchers have developed an environmentally safer type of plastic that can be used for wearable electronics, sensors, and other electrical applications without fluorine. The new material exhibits tunable ferroelectricity and flexibility, making it suitable for various electronic uses.
A new molecular tool, BLOCK-ID, has been developed to study the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) pathway in cancer cells. The tool allows researchers to monitor protein interactions and identify essential proteins like TRIM24, which play a crucial role in ALT telomere maintenance.
A team of researchers from HKU Dentistry has developed a groundbreaking AI system that can predict early childhood caries risk for individual teeth based on microbial characteristics. The system achieved an accuracy rate of over 90% and identified distinct patterns in tooth-specific microbial communities that foretell dental decay.
The book examines how architects can better serve society by changing their approach to the building process. Staub discusses three components of sustainability: ecological, economic, and social, highlighting social sustainability as an under-discussed aspect in architecture.
Research reveals extreme coral mortality after bleaching, with mortality exceeding 99% in some areas. The study highlights the urgent need for action on climate change, as repeated disturbances have compounded the ecosystem's vulnerability.
The study reconciles two closely related mechanisms in transcription, revealing they are deeply intertwined with shared driving forces. The findings suggest that while transcription can occur via both mechanisms, phase separation does not necessarily offer increased activity, but rather dampens it.
Researchers employed advanced molecular modeling and generative AI to design highly selective FGFR2/3 inhibitors, overcoming therapeutic resistance in various cancers. ISM7594 exhibited nanomolar inhibitory activity against FGFR2/3 with over 100-fold selectivity, showing robust antiproliferative effects.
Researchers created a powerful cell culture model using induced pluripotent stem cells from a patient with MDS, confirming that the CEBPA mutation drives disease progression. The model could lead to new ways to treat and diagnose MDS and avoid more serious conditions.
Researchers identified a point mutation in the normal PML gene that can block the effect of arsenic trioxide, leading to treatment failure and suggesting a new target for genetic screening. This discovery has implications for personalized therapy and may help improve patient outcomes.
The ReSURF sensor can detect various pollutants, such as oils and fluorinated compounds, in water droplets using its unique self-powered and self-healing properties. It offers a sustainable solution for real-time water quality monitoring with capabilities to be applied in soft robotics and wearable electronics.
Researchers from Texas A&M AgriLife and partner institutions collaborate to develop alternative vascular delivery approaches for citrus greening therapies, reducing structural damage. The project aims to create a more sustainable system for long-term therapeutic delivery, with potential applications beyond citrus crops.
Allowing avian flu to run rampant in US poultry would lead to unnecessary suffering and put other animals at risk. The authors suggest a more collaborative approach to reduce spillover risks and protect public and ecological health.
Researchers found that smartphone sensors can detect major forms of psychopathology. The study's results may lead to the development of symptom monitoring tools to fill gaps in current practice.
The new microscope allows researchers to map and quantify the mechanical properties of biological tissues without interfering with them, enabling real-time monitoring. This breakthrough technology has far-reaching implications for fields such as inflammation, cancer, developmental biology, and biomedical materials.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have received an NSF CAREER Award to develop synthetic DNA nanoparticles with potential applications in gene therapy. The program aims to study how these particles behave inside cells and potentially design therapeutics for genetic diseases.
A new study finds that climate change may cause a reduced overlap of suitable habitats for wild vanilla plants and their pollinating insects, threatening the survival of natural populations. This could lead to plant-pollinator decoupling, negatively affecting the future of the global food industry.
A team from Tohoku University has discovered that submarine hydrothermal alteration may have been a significant source of phosphorus on the early Earth. The study, published in Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta, suggests that hydrothermal systems could have locally supplied sufficient phosphorus to support early microbial ecosystems.
University of Sydney researchers have developed a method to produce ammonia in gas form using electricity, offering a more sustainable alternative to the current Haber-Bosch process. This new approach reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, making it a promising solution for the agricultural and hydrogen industries.
A new study from Mass General Brigham researchers found that an average of 21% of teen drivers engage in distracted driving, with many believing their peers drive distracted due to social norms. The study suggests encouraging strategies like 'Do Not Disturb' mode and ensuring teens get adequate sleep can mitigate this behavior.
Researchers suggest early continental crust formed through deep Earth processes called mantle plumes, rather than plate tectonics. They analyzed ancient rocks and found evidence of a two-stage process involving mantle plume upwelling and gravitational sagduction of greenstones.
A recent study suggests that stressful life events can impact brain health differently depending on gender and educational level. The death of a partner was associated with changes in biomarkers related to Alzheimer's disease, while unemployment and economic losses were linked to structural differences in the brain.
A study published in Nature Communications reveals that neurons in mice brain rewire and refine their connections to integrate visual signals from both eyes over a 10-day period. The researchers found that only 40% of the initial synapses survived, with 24% added and 27% removed, indicating an extensive process of synaptic turnover.
Researchers have discovered a sophisticated immune response to beneficial skin microbes that could pave the way for innovative vaccine strategies. By harnessing this preemptive immunity, scientists may develop novel, needle-free vaccinations that protect against pathogens without causing inflammation or disrupting physical barriers.
Researchers have created a novel sequencing technology, NTD-seq, that enables the direct mapping of 5-methylcytosine in genomic DNA. The method, which uses an enzyme to deaminate cytosine and preserve 5mC, shows strong concordance with existing maps and offers a powerful tool for studying epigenetic modifications.
A new study identifies EMP1 as a pivotal molecule driving pancreatic cancer progression and poor prognosis. EMP1 expression was shown to promote cell proliferation, migration, and invasion through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
A Bar-Ilan University research team has discovered a mechanism behind abrupt transitions in complex systems, revealing how tiny changes can trigger global collapses. By monitoring the branching factor, they may predict when a system is nearing a critical breakdown.