A new edition of 'Criminal Law in Canada: Cases, Questions, and the Code' has been released, co-authored by Associate Professor David MacAlister. The book reflects recent case law and legislation, featuring expanded discussion on key topics such as sentencing and bail reform.
Researchers develop active metamaterials that can autonomously roll, crawl, and wiggle over unpredictable terrain, including uphill and obstacles. These 'odd' objects achieve motion through unusual interactions between motorized building blocks, demonstrating decentralized and robust locomotion.
Research highlights the interconnected relationship between aging, circadian rhythms, and cancer, with shared mechanisms including genomic instability, cellular senescence, and chronic inflammation. Modulating circadian rhythms may serve as a novel strategy to intervene in age-related functional decline and treat cancer.
A research group from Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics achieves electrosynthesis of ammonia from NO in a pressurized electrolyzer with ampere-level current density and long-term stability. The method uses an in situ-grown hierarchical porous copper nanowire array electrode to regulate the kinetics and thermodynamics of the reaction.
Researchers introduce ClimID-UDA, a novel approach to cross-regional crop classification using climate indicator discrepancies. The method enhances crop classification accuracy by up to 20% and offers a scalable solution for global agricultural monitoring.
Aromatic baths using essential oil scents significantly increased activity, stability, and comfort levels within 10 minutes. After four weeks, aromatherapy reduced presenteeism, indicating improved work performance and mood.
Researchers have uncovered two major genes responsible for sorghum's double-grain spikelet, leading to a significant increase in grain number and crop yield. The study found that the DG1 gene regulates floret meristem formation and differentiation, restoring fertility to the lower floret and resulting in the double-grain trait.
A novel deep learning model, ESIN, integrates molecular geometry and electronic structure data to predict the photoluminescence quantum yield of organic thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials. The model leverages principles of frontier molecular orbitals to enhance predictive accuracy and interpretability.
Researchers forecast shaking damage from crustal earthquake scenarios in Mexico City, with varying levels of damage depending on the region's underlying geology. The study modeled earthquakes up to magnitude 5.5 and found that one- to two-story buildings received the most damage, particularly in areas with soft lakebed sediments.
Researchers conclude that public health advice on safe consumption of glycerol-containing slush ice drinks is likely outdated, citing 21 cases of acute illness in children. The children's symptoms included reduced consciousness, hypoglycemia, and metabolic acidosis after consuming these products.
A new study has provided evidence for the safety and effectiveness of a meningococcal pentavalent vaccine in young children beginning at 9 months of age in sub-Saharan Africa. The vaccine protects against five strains of meningitis prevalent in the region, and its use could lead to a significant reduction in meningitis cases and deaths.
Researchers from Kyoto University and Cambridge University developed a fluorescent dopamine sensor to monitor dopamine signals in primate brains. The study found that dopamine signals varied depending on the location in the striatum, with distinct patterns observed in the anterior putamen and caudate head.
A study by Cambridge researchers found that a routine lung function test used to diagnose asthma is more reliable in the morning. The reliability of the test decreases throughout the day and differs significantly between winter and autumn, with individuals being 33% less likely to receive a positive result during autumn.
ADHD prescriptions in England increased 18% year on year since the pandemic, with wide regional variations. The trends suggest growing public and professional awareness, as well as the potential impact of COVID-19. Inequalities in access to care are highlighted by significant regional differences.
A study found that socioeconomically disadvantaged patients used emergency departments less for non-avoidable visits, despite an overall rebound in ED use by 2022. This trend reverses pre-pandemic increases in ED utilization among Medicaid and dual-eligible patients.
A new study reveals that integrating smoking cessation support into NHS Talking Therapies for depression and anxiety significantly increases quit rates. Patients are more than twice as likely to quit smoking when receiving combined support, improving both physical and mental health outcomes.
A study published in PNAS found that young children perceive colors similarly to adults, with consistent structure across age groups and cultures. The researchers developed a touch panel interface to evaluate conscious experiences, revealing robustness in their approach.
A new study published in The Lancet HIV reveals gaps in knowledge surrounding HPV-related cancers in people living with HIV. Existing disparities in healthcare and a lack of evidence on the effectiveness of the HPV vaccine in this population highlight the need for further research and targeted interventions.
Breast cancer death rates are predicted to increase in EU patients aged 80 years and older, while falling in all other age groups. This is attributed to a lack of regular screening and access to modern treatments.
A pooled data analysis found that water aerobics can effectively reduce overall weight and trim waist circumference by 3 cm in obese or overweight participants. Exercise periods lasting more than 10 weeks significantly reduced body weight and waist circumference in women and those aged 45 and older.
A team of researchers has identified 167 objects at the bottom of the Calypso Deep, a 5,112-metre-deep depression in the Ionian Sea, with 148 being marine debris and 19 of possible anthropogenic origin. The study highlights the need for global policy actions to reduce ocean waste and changes in citizens' consumption habits.
Researchers at MSU's Plant Research Laboratory found that plants photosynthesize more under high light, high CO2 conditions, leading to larger plants and potentially higher crop yields. However, they also lose carbon during this process, which can impact their ability to make food.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health refutes claims that Medicaid expansion increases misuse of prescription opioids and benzodiazepines. Despite initial concerns, the study found no association between Medicaid expansion and non-prescribed opioid use among people who inject drugs.
A new report finds that Black students at HBCUs and PBIs experience better mental health outcomes in several key areas compared to their peers. Despite these positive outcomes, crucial gaps and pressing challenges emerged from the data, including financial concerns and unmet mental health needs.
Researchers found that hibernating lemurs' telomeres got longer, contrary to the usual decrease with age, suggesting a potential way to reverse cellular aging. This study, conducted at Duke University and the University of California, San Francisco, provides insights into the mechanisms behind lemur's remarkable survival strategy.
A new study suggests that hospital rehabilitation for older adults might only be the beginning of a longer journey. While therapy is crucial in mitigating functional decline, only a small minority of patients receiving intensive therapy (14+ hours/week) had a greater likelihood of home discharge.
A recent study found that slow-growing broilers displayed behaviors associated with positive animal welfare, including standing and preening. In contrast, conventional broilers sat in a lateral posture. The research suggests that growth rate may impact broiler behavior, highlighting the need for further investigation.
Researchers developed a cell phone application that detects posture and advises users on how to improve alignment through voice commands, vibrations, or images. The app helps patients with hemiparesis, a common sequelae of strokes, regain lost body awareness and perform daily tasks.
A new study by Maira E. Ezerins finds that autistic job applicants face increased anxiety in interviews and have concerns about their traits being viewed by employers. The research proposes concrete steps to improve the interview process, including flexibility, general questions, and skill showcases.
A new study from Simon Fraser University found a close link between high social media use and psychiatric disorders involving delusions. Forms of delusions, such as narcissistic personality disorder and body dysmorphic disorder, were the most prevalent types related to high social media use.
A new book by Komla Dzigbede explores the ability of local governments to learn, adapt, and innovate in the face of major crises. The book analyzes disaster preparedness, response, and economic development post-disaster, offering practical lessons for local leaders.
A team of astronomers has discovered four mini-Earth exoplanets around Barnard's Star, the nearest single star to Earth. The exoplanets are rocky and orbit their home star in a matter of days, with one being the least massive planet discovered using radial velocity technique.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health discovered a molecular quality-control system in Anopheles mosquitoes that can be targeted to disrupt malaria parasites. Disrupting the prefoldin chaperonin system reduced mosquitoes' ability to host and transmit malaria parasites, killing about 60% of them.
Researchers at Beckman Institute created a new 3D printing process called 'growth printing' that mimics the outward expansion of tree trunks to print polymer parts quickly and efficiently. The process, called FROMP, uses minimal energy to harden resin into its solid form, resulting in faster and more cost-effective production of polymers.
A world-first study of over 215,000 students found that emotional wellbeing, engagement, and learning readiness are key to performance. Schools must shift towards valuing student wellbeing and academic achievement as integral components of a holistic education.
Researchers develop a 'colocatome' to study the interactions between cancer cells and their surrounding non-cancerous cells, revealing how these interactions impact tumor growth and treatment resistance. The study aims to provide insights into universal rules of tumor behavior and guide the design of more effective treatments.
A research study found significant associations between aircraft rescue and firefighting personnel's perceived risk factors of COVID-19 and their actual outcomes. Participants who reported being more susceptible to COVID-19 had a higher likelihood of infection, while those who perceived severity had a lower likelihood.
The study identifies a new area where a correction for the self-interaction error breaks down, allowing researchers to pinpoint flaws and develop solutions. By refining DFT, scientists can design better catalysts, leading to improvements in fields such as food production and technology.
Researchers found polypropylene microplastic particles in IV fluid solutions, which can be delivered to the bloodstream, posing health risks. The study recommends keeping IV bags away from UV light and heat, and using micrometer-level filtration systems.
Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys discovered novel fragments of future drugs that selectively inhibit the enzyme VHR, which plays a role in controlling the immune system's response to danger. The findings may lead to the development of new therapies for sepsis and septic shock.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine estimates that the COVID-19 pandemic cost Europe 16.8 million disability-free years of life between 2020 and 2022. The study found that more than half of these lost years would have been lived without disability, highlighting the pandemic's long-term impact on older populations.
A recent study highlights both positive and negative effects of elevated CO2 on plants, affecting nutrient assimilation, growth, and crop quality. Crop varieties with superior biofortification traits can help alleviate nutrient deficiency.
Researchers visualized the dynamic shuttling of α-CD rings along a PEG chain in real time, revealing localized structural changes. The study introduces a new method for analyzing supramolecular polymers and could pave the way for energy-efficient molecular motors.
Researchers from PolyU have discovered the precise location of aluminium atoms in zeolite frameworks, enabling the design of more efficient and stable catalysts. This breakthrough has wide-reaching implications for industries such as renewable energy and pollution control.
Researchers at the Texas A&M Gastrointestinal Laboratory discovered biomarkers that can predict gastrointestinal disease risk in dogs. The study found multiple signs of high-risk disease, including inflammation and leaky guts, which can contribute to the development of GI disease if left unchecked.
Researchers investigated genetic and sensory mechanisms behind mate preferences in Heliconius cydno butterflies with yellow or white wing patches. They found that males prefer females with matching wing colors due to differences in how sensory information is processed.
A study by Pusan National University uncovers the impact of nanoplastic exposure on red blood cell maturation in zebrafish embryos. Exposure to polystyrene nanoparticles disrupts normal blood cell development, leading to an increase in immature RBCs and a decrease in mature RBCs.
A new ACS-led study reveals that patients exposed to wildfire disasters during recovery from lung cancer surgery have longer hospital stays, posing significant challenges to their well-being. The findings highlight the need for disaster preparedness guidelines tailored to vulnerable patient populations.
Experts discuss scientific and technological challenges in the energy transition, including solar technologies, hydrogen, batteries, grid management, and future energy sources. The joint paper recommends innovations leading to next-gen photovoltaic technology, green hydrogen production, and AI-powered grid management.
Climate change drives large increases in electricity demand and costs in Texas due to extreme temperatures. Meanwhile, atmospheric rivers become more frequent, larger, and moister globally. Diagnostic studies also predict malaria outbreaks with five-month lead time using sea-surface temperature anomalies.
Research by Prof Nicholas Ngepah reveals that inequality cancels out the benefits of positive economic growth and social grants for people living in poverty, especially during economic downturns. In contrast, poor households experience more poverty reduction when the economy grows positively.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a fully additive-manufactured plastic scintillator detector for elementary particles, showcasing a significant step towards time- and cost-effective ways to build large-scale particle detectors. The detector's three-dimensional particle tracks enable more accurate neutrino tracking and analysis.
A new study published in BMJ Open finds that supportive workplace culture is crucial for implementing and sustaining lifestyle medicine programs. Synergistic practices such as collaborative groups, visual advertising, and healthy meal options facilitated the adoption of lifestyle medicine programming.
Researchers have discovered a blood test that can identify patients with a sleep disorder who are most likely to develop Dementia with Lewy Bodies. The blood test analyzes two proteins in the blood associated with Alzheimer's disease and predicted dementia risk in almost 90% of patients, four years before symptoms appeared.
The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has selected six papers to receive the 2024 Cozzarelli Prize, recognizing originality and excellence in research. The winners are recognized for their work on permafrost thaw, eye blinking as a visual processing stage, and complex network analysis.
Researchers at TIFR Hyderabad developed a novel porous thin-film approach to enhance catalysis efficiency in industrial reactions. The new methodology increases the density of catalytic sites and improves reactant diffusion rates, resulting in higher turnover frequencies and reaction efficiency.
Researchers designed an optoelectronic memory device using critical band-to-band tunnelling on black phosphorus and indium selenium materials. The device exhibits cumulative photomemory current, a low operating voltage, and near-infrared range operation.
A new Clinical Research Center of Excellence will improve care for individuals with SYNGAP1-related disorders and expand the Natural History Study to include Prospective Multidisciplinary Multisite Study. The center, established at Children's Hospital Colorado, aims to accelerate research and provide specialized care.
This study found that electroacupuncture (EA) improved gastric emptying in rats with burn-induced dysmotility by down-regulating cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and pro-inflammatory cytokines. EA also normalized sympathetic hyperactivity and enhanced vagal activity, suggesting a potential therapeutic benefit for burn-induced gastric dysmotility.
Researchers have developed cost-effective and efficient water-splitting catalysts using cobalt and tungsten, which surprisingly increase in performance over time. The unique self-optimization process involves changes in the chemical nature of the catalyzing oxide, leading to improved activity and reduced overpotentials.