A recent study published in Nature Energy found that switching to a new battery technology does not automatically open the door to new market players due to established companies' structural advantages. The researchers analyzed over 15,000 patents and found significant knowledge transfer between lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries.
A thriving edible garden in Brisbane attracts thousands daily, offering a blueprint for local governments to provide fresh food as a public service. The Epicurious Garden boosts biodiversity and provides education, inspiration, and sensory enjoyment, connecting people with nature.
This review constructs a tripartite analytical framework for ionogel actuators, covering material construction, actuation mechanisms, and system integration. It presents a function-oriented classification of materials and evaluates the applicability of seven distinct actuation modes.
A new study reveals disparities in urban shade levels, leading to greater health risks and exacerbating the 'heat island' effect in cities. Wealthier neighborhoods tend to have more trees, resulting in better shade provision for pedestrians, highlighting a consistent link between wealth and neighborhood tree abundance.
Researchers discovered that ancient humans used geometric principles to create organized and coherent patterns on ostrich eggshells, dating back over 60,000 years. The study suggests that this ability to organize visual space according to abstract principles is a key indicator of the emergence of abstract thought in human evolution.
Chronic sleep disruption persistently impairs social memory by differentially encoding oxytocin release in hippocampal CA2 during novelty encoding and prelimbic cortex during retrieval of familiar individuals. Restoration of PVN-OXT neurons enhances OXT release and produces sustained behavioral recovery.
A new roadmap for newborn screening combines genetic sequencing with traditional biomarker-based testing to enhance early detection of treatable neonatal disorders. The framework covers 154 disease-associated genes across 67 inherited metabolic disorders, reducing false positives and false negatives while accelerating diagnosis and int...
A research team at Kumamoto University identified a plant-derived molecule, PGG, that breaks down transthyretin (TTR) amyloid linked to heart and nerve disorders. The study found PGG effectively disassembled amyloid fibrils without disrupting other types of protein aggregates.
Researchers found that noninvasive measures of brain blood flow and oxygenation are associated with hallmark brain changes in older adults with and without cognitive impairment. Higher values on these indicators were linked to lower levels of amyloid plaques and larger hippocampal volume, indicating a lower risk of Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers have observed and measured weak electrical discharges, known as coronae, on trees during thunderstorms for the first time. The phenomenon may impact canopy health, with coronae burning leaf tips and potentially damaging trees over time, sparking further investigation into its effects.
Ranked tied for first among private universities in Western Japan, Okayama University of Science was recognized for its interdisciplinary scientific research initiatives. The institution secured a fifth-place ranking nationwide among private universities.
Researchers found that a condensed brain stimulation therapy, known as '5x5' TMS, produced comparable results to the standard six-week course of treatment. Patients who showed little improvement immediately after finishing their five-day course still benefited significantly in the weeks that followed.
A study of 382 adolescents aged 15–17 found that zero-alcohol advertisements significantly increased their intentions to try full-strength versions. Teenagers who liked the ads showed more positive attitudes toward the brands and clearer intentions to drink.
Researchers create detailed 3D reconstructions of human liver tissue, comparing healthy and cirrhotic livers, showing dysregulation of metabolite transport, reduced specialized cells, and disruption of vascular networks. The study highlights the importance of understanding organ structure for bioprinting artificial organs.
A new study from University of Liverpool and King's College London recommends a personalized and tiered model of postnatal care, considering convenience, individual preference, and clinical concerns. Women value virtual care for its convenience but emphasize the need for physical examinations in certain situations.
Researchers at UTIA and UT Knoxville create an automated sensor network to monitor compost piles, reducing labor costs and improving regulatory compliance. The new system uses battery-free sensors and machine learning algorithms to analyze temperature and moisture variations, enabling data-driven decision making.
New research shows that Rytvela, an anti-inflammatory drug candidate, decreases premature birth and infant mortality when administered after the onset of preterm labor in a preclinical mouse model. The treatment prolongs gestation and fetal growth while allowing newborn organs to develop in utero.
A new study published in The Journal of Positive Psychology found that creativity improves daily well-being, but professional creatives experience a 'creative hangover' with more negative emotions the next day. This research challenges the idea that creativity is always good for mental health.
Researchers at uOttawa have developed a new technique called Stimulated Parametric Down-Conversion (StimPDC) to mitigate the effects of atmospheric turbulence on free-space quantum key distribution. This method reduces quantum error rates below the security threshold even under strong turbulence.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in understanding the chemical process linked with Alzheimer's disease by observing real-time interactions between metals and proteins. They discovered a method to selectively grasp copper ions that promote protein aggregation, offering hope for potential reversible treatments.
A study published in Nature Communications found that evaluating multiple candidates simultaneously reduces racial disparities in promotion and tenure decisions. This structural change increases Black and Hispanic faculty members' promotion chances by 16.2%, effectively eliminating racial disparities at the department level.
The International Society for Stem Cell Research has awarded the 2026 ISSCR Lifetime Achievement Award to Dr. Allen Eaves and late Dr. Connie Eaves, recognizing their groundbreaking work on blood stem cell biology, leukemia, and cancer stem cells. Their research and mentorship have profoundly influenced the field of stem cell science.
Killer whales in southern Alaska have a diverse diet that shifts between Chinook, chum, and coho salmon across different foraging hotspots. The study reveals the importance of accounting for sampling bias in diet studies and highlights the resilience of the region's killer whale population.
A new study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health reveals that team creativity is a powerful driver of well-being and effectiveness in primary care. The research found that higher levels of team creativity are associated with greater job satisfaction, lower burnout, and improved patient care.
A growing body of research suggests that microplastics in soils can alter microbial genes controlling essential ecosystem functions, potentially affecting food production, climate processes, and environmental health. Microplastics also enhance the spread of antibiotic resistance genes in soil ecosystems.
A new study published in Developmental Psychology identifies patterns and predictors of adolescent social health, which may foretell loneliness and aggressive behavior. The research found that teens with positive relationships tend to have better mental health in adulthood.
A new study suggests that applying biochar to rewetted peatlands can improve long-term carbon storage while reducing the need for highly stable biochars. Rewetting peatlands slows decomposition and helps prevent carbon loss, allowing more of biochar's carbon to remain stored over time.
A new study has discovered microplastics in nine out of ten patients with prostate cancer, with higher levels found in tumor tissue than noncancerous tissue. The findings suggest that microplastic exposure may be a risk factor for prostate cancer.
Researchers warn that public fountains can be a breeding ground for aerosolized pollutants, posing significant risks to human health. With an estimated 30% of visitors being children, the risk of fountain-related illnesses is particularly high.
Researchers developed mRNA-encoded nanobodies to combat colorectal cancer, offering new hope for patients resistant to conventional immunotherapies. The treatment demonstrated superior efficacy against sporadic and colitis-associated colorectal cancer.
Scientists have developed an adaptable materials platform that can safely deliver a wide range of genetic medicines, including vaccines, cancer treatments, and gene-silencing drugs. The new platform uses modular building blocks that self-assemble to form nanoscale delivery particles with reversible 'host-guest' linking system.
Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center investigate ferroptosis as a potential target for cancer treatment. They also develop an AI model to analyze country-specific factors driving global cancer outcomes. Additionally, the institution introduces an AI-based incident analysis approach to improve patient safety.
The Long Life Family Study, a long-running international investigation, has revealed insights into features of healthy aging. Researchers have found that most long-lived families have better cardiovascular health, including healthier blood pressures and lower rates of diabetes.
Researchers developed open-source software to measure AI model energy use, revealing trends in how design affects power requirements. The tool can automate the search for efficient parameters, helping lower energy costs and environmental impact.
Researchers found that Palaeolithic sign sequences are statistically comparable to the earliest proto-cuneiform script, dating back 40,000 years. The analysis of over 3,000 geometric signs on 260 objects revealed complex and informative systems used by early humans to convey information.
A new collaborative clinician education program will equip cardiologists and OB-GYNs with practical tools to identify and treat cardiovascular risk in midlife women. The program aims to close treatment gaps and provide proactive, integrated care during menopause.
The Morrow Plots, established in 1876, have been a hub for long-term agricultural research and outreach. The plots have directly impacted farming practices by proving methods like crop rotation and judicious fertilizer use boost crop yield and soil health.
Researchers used mathematical modeling to find that even people with minimal concern for others would choose to self-isolate when sick, suppressing diseases in the long-term. The study suggests that only a small amount of altruism is needed to achieve indefinite suppression as an alternative to herd immunity.
Researchers have achieved a crucial building block for new quantum computers by realizing a novel type of quantum logic gate that works with pairs of photons in four different states, enabling new opportunities for optical quantum computing. This milestone opens up possibilities for faster calculations and improved stability.
The inaugural article in Microbiology Outlooks connects within-host genomics and evolutionary theory, reframing virulence as a context-dependent strategy. The research has implications for vaccine design, antimicrobial stewardship, and epidemic control strategies.
Physicists at the University of Utah have developed a new, streamlined system for generating orbital angular momentum in electrons, allowing for cheaper and more abundant materials. The innovation uses natural symmetry and vibrations of atoms to control electron momentum.
Scientists detected statistically significant changes in global atmospheric temperatures in response to three major natural events: Mount Pinatubo, Australian wildfires, and Hunga Tonga eruption. The study's findings suggest that these events may not have played a role in the acceleration of global surface warming in recent years.
Researchers have shown that ocean temperature patterns limit the global spread of droughts, with synchronised droughts affecting only 1.8% to 6.5% of global land. The study identified 'drought hubs' in regions like Australia, South America, and southern Africa.
Researchers have discovered that two osteoporosis drugs, etidronate and tiludronate, can bind to excess iron, reducing oxidative stress and preventing cell damage. This finding holds promise for patients with iron overload diseases, but further studies are needed to confirm its potential as a treatment.
Gupta received the award for her article on systematic gaps in reporting variants of uncertain significance (VUS) and their reclassifications. Her study found that at least 1.6% of variant classifications used in electronic health records were outdated based on current ClinVar classifications.
A new study published in Building and Environment shows that larger indoor greening systems can make spaces feel up to two degrees cooler and more comfortable. The analysis also highlights the importance of using the right systems, lighting, and maintenance to unlock the full potential of indoor greening.
Researchers found that youths born in the 1990s spent more time playing formal sports compared to their peers, with those from higher social class backgrounds dominating these opportunities. This shift away from informal play raises concerns about the costs and benefits of commercialized youth sports.
New research demonstrates a micro–light-emitting diode (microLED) design that improves both efficiency and beam directionality. The redesigned microLEDs deliver substantially higher efficiency, converting more power into usable light compared to conventional designs.
A large registry study in Finland found that 70% of antipsychotic medication use among older adults was off-label. Risperidone and quetiapine were the most commonly used medications off-label. The study highlights the need for alternative treatments and clearer guidelines for monitoring metabolic side effects.
Researchers found a strong inverse correlation between Arctic sea ice extent and Indian summer monsoon rainfall on interannual timescales. Decreased Arctic sea ice variability during June to July leads to increased rainfall over western and northwestern India, indicating a westward shift in the monsoon season.
The study reveals a novel hydrogen-bonding motif in the deprotonated dimer of phosphoric acid, which may be key to understanding proton transport in phosphoric acid-based systems. This finding provides insight into the molecular origin of phosphoric acid's extraordinary proton conductivity.
Researchers found that farming practices, unsafe sanitation, and domestic animals linked to infection risk. Household-level interventions are essential for accelerating elimination, especially when community-wide strategies fail near elimination.
A Mayo Clinic study found that the brain enters a deep sleep state after a seizure, mimicking memory storage and strengthening disease. This phenomenon, called seizure-related consolidation, could help explain why epilepsy worsens over time and why memory and mood problems are common in people with the condition.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a new method to grow patterned diamond surfaces that can decrease operating temperatures in electronics. This approach uses microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition to create ordered layers of diamond crystals on substrates, allowing for controlled seed placement and scalable growth.
A systematic review found that post-disaster mental health problems may peak 9-18 years after the event, with depression being the most common issue. The study suggests that long-term recovery approaches are needed to alleviate mental health burdens, particularly for at-risk communities.
A team of researchers has developed a novel method to track the Earth's greenness by calculating its centre of mass. They found that the 'green centre' oscillates between northernmost positions in mid-July and southernmost positions off the coast of Liberia in March, with a consistent northward shift across all seasons.
A study on Japanese plum reveals the genetic architecture underlying key phenological stages, including flowering onset, full bloom, and fruit development period. The research identified stable genetic loci and candidate genes that can be used to accelerate breeding for climate-resilient plum varieties.
Researchers explore piezoelectric electrospun fibers that generate crucial electrical signals for tissue engineering and biomedical applications. These "smart" scaffolds have high flexibility, biomimetic structure, and tunable morphology, offering potential for enhanced tissue repair.
The development of spatial transcriptomics has advanced gene expression understanding, but selecting suitable analytical approaches is challenging. A database curated SpatialToolDB addresses this by classifying over 600 ST analytical tools and providing access to processed datasets.
A grave in northern Serbia contains the remains of over 77 individuals, mostly women and children, who suffered violent deaths including bludgeoning and stabbing. Genetic analysis revealed that most victims were not related, suggesting a deliberate targeting of these groups.