A recent study published in Cell explores the neural mechanisms underlying pleasurable touch, finding that touch neurons are involved in dopamine release and sexual arousal. The research sheds new light on the intricate connections between touch, pleasure, and human behavior.
A new study has revealed the structural nuances of a key protein found in both the kidneys and brains, shedding light on its role in treating diseases such as chronic kidney disease and Alzheimer's. The discovery of LRP2's ferrying mechanism has led to hope for novel pharmaceutical approaches.
Researchers have identified a full pathway from skin neurons to brain pleasure centers, revealing the neurobiological basis of pleasurable social touch. The study suggests that touch-based therapies may alleviate anxiety, stress, and depression, with potential applications for autism and other conditions.
Researchers studied albino mice to understand how the neural circuitry of vision develops and can be disrupted, finding that a gene controlling cell birthing is perturbed in albinism. The study identified a potential therapeutic target by revving up this gene, which improved depth perception in albino mice.
A study published in Cell reveals that the shape of receptor proteins determines axon targeting precision in mice, helping explain how olfactory neurons send signals to specific glomeruli. This discovery could lead to early detection of olfactory deficits and understanding of brain function.
Scientists Luca Comisso and Lorenzo Sironi used supercomputers to simulate the origin of high-energy particles in turbulent environments like the sun's atmosphere. Their research provides a clear pattern of when and how these particles form, paving the way for more accurate predictions of space weather events.
A study published in Nature found that fat entering the intestines triggers a signal that drives mice to consume fatty foods. The gut sends signals to the brain via the vagus nerve, with two types of cells responding to different nutrients. Blocking these signals prevents mice from developing an appetite for fat.
Researchers at Columbia University have discovered a way to visualize magnons in a 2D material, CrSBr, by pairing them with excitons that emit light. This breakthrough enables the observation of tiny changes in magnon spins, potentially leading to the development of more efficient quantum information networks.
Researchers found that two types of computer models, deep neural networks and the Basel Face Model, are surprisingly accurate at replicating human facial similarity judgments. These models were tested on a dataset of realistic computer-generated faces and ranked by students in terms of similarity.
Researchers developed a technique to study supermassive black holes smaller than M87's by measuring the brightness of their shadows over time. The 'shadow' signal can reveal the size and shape of a black hole's event horizon, shedding light on gravity's nature.
A new study models the probability of renewable energy droughts in Texas, finding that grid operators may need backup energy sources due to variable wind and solar production. Researchers suggest increasing capacity or exploring alternative storage methods to avoid extended dry spells.
Researchers are developing technologies to image tens or hundreds of human brains at unprecedented speed, generating comprehensive brain-cell atlases to uncover behavior, emotion, and cognition. The team aims to chart the diversity of brain cells, including neurons and glial cells, to gain insights into normal brain function and disease.
Scientists at Columbia University's Zuckerman Institute have discovered that floods of calcium originating from within neurons can boost learning and recall. The finding sheds light on the mechanisms underlying learning and memory, potentially providing new insights into Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers unveil an algorithm that reduces statistical errors in quantum chemistry calculations, allowing for accurate ground state energy calculation. This enables chemists to develop new materials for sustainable goals such as nitrogen fixation and hydrolysis.
Researchers have discovered a common thread between multiple neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's, dementia with Lewy bodies, and frontotemporal lobar degeneration. A protein called TMEM106B forms fibrils in diseased brain tissue, potentially hobbling cells.
A new graphene-based platform allows researchers to control the interaction strength between electrons and holes, enabling the formation of quantum condensates at room temperature. The platform's tunability enables testing of theoretical predictions about superconductivity and its potential for higher temperature limits.
The discovery of an exomoon signal in archival data has sparked hope that big moons are common in planetary systems. Astronomer David Kipping and his team reported the finding, which could confirm the existence of a super-sized moon orbiting Kepler 1708b.
Researchers have discovered a new electronic nematic phase in twisted double bilayer graphene, which breaks the material's symmetry and allows for the re-alignment of electrons. This finding adds to our understanding of graphene-based systems and may hold implications for the study of superconductivity.
A new study proposes a clean technique to dope graphene via a charge-transfer layer made of low-impurity tungsten oxyselenide (TOS), increasing its electrical mobility. The researchers found that doping graphene with TOS resulted in higher electrical conductivity and transparency compared to previous methods.
A study of over 2,500 participants found that white Americans are more likely to dismiss information from Black peers and rate them as less skilled. However, when given the chance to work alongside Black peers, the bias disappeared, highlighting the importance of direct interaction in overcoming racial disparities.
A study published in PNAS documents changes associated with prolonged anesthesia in the brains of mice, revealing significant alterations in synaptic architecture. The findings support reports of post-hospital cognitive dysfunction and suggest a physical link between cognitive impairment and prolonged medically induced coma.
Researchers at Columbia University have developed a platform to control layered crystals using light, producing imaging capabilities beyond common limits. The discovery provides insights for optical quantum information processing and aims to solve difficult problems in computing and communications.
Physicists Luca Comisso and Felipe Asenjo propose a new method to extract energy from rotating black holes by breaking and reconnecting magnetic field lines. This process could accelerate plasma particles to negative energies, allowing for massive amounts of energy extraction with an efficiency of up to 150%.
Researchers develop coloring technique to 'paint' neurons with fluorescent colors, enabling identification of each neuron in an animal's nervous system. The NeuroPAL method allows scientists to record a whole nervous system in action and decode brainwide activity patterns.
Researchers at Columbia University discovered a rare form of magnetism in a three-layer graphene structure, showcasing exotic electronic states and controllable magnetic behavior. The twist angle enables the manipulation of spin-free magnetism, opening new possibilities for quantum computation and energy-efficient data storage.
A multidisciplinary research team led by Columbia University is developing a quantum simulator to tackle real-world challenges. The project, funded by a $1 million NSF Convergence Accelerator award, aims to create a device that can solve problems difficult for classical computers.
A unified classification of diverse cell types in the cerebral cortex has been proposed by a Columbia-led team, which could shed light on how our brains work and potentially lead to treatments for diseases. The new system uses single-cell RNA sequencing and can be updated regularly using algorithms.
A new study from Columbia University provides a blueprint for using genomics to help combat climate change by identifying corals that can adapt to warmer seas. Researchers analyzed genetic data from 237 samples collected at 12 locations along the Great Barrier Reef, finding multiple genetic variants associated with bleaching tolerance.
Researchers have successfully detected gamma rays from the Crab Nebula using a next-generation telescope, shedding new light on supernovae and dark matter. The prototype Schwarzschild-Couder Telescope promises to enhance imaging detail over larger field of view across the sky.
A new study using Bayesian statistics estimates the odds of life and intelligence emerging on planets similar to Earth, suggesting that complex extraterrestrial life is possible. The analysis indicates that life should have little problem spontaneously emerging on other planets, but intelligent life is less likely.
The Columbia University-led team will design, build and test key electronic components for the ATLAS system to enhance its capabilities. The high-luminosity LHC upgrade is expected to increase collisions by a factor of 10, enabling scientists to collect data more efficiently and analyze new particles.
A new model developed by Columbia University researchers identifies areas in the US where Lyme disease cases are likely to go unreported. The model, based on 17 years of data, helps predict the trajectory of Lyme disease spread, allowing authorities to alert physicians and the public to early treatment opportunities.
Researchers have introduced a novel multi-messenger approach to quantum physics, combining spectroscopy techniques to probe electronic and magnetic materials at nanometer-scale precision. The study reveals unanticipated properties emerging in long-studied quantum materials under strain.
Researchers propose that Tabby's Star is experiencing long-term dimming due to a disk of debris from an exomoon accumulating around it, blocking its light. The exomoon's outer layers are being torn apart by stellar radiation, creating dust clouds that periodically pass between the star and Earth.
Researchers at Columbia University have developed a new design rule for generating excitons in organic molecules. This innovation enables the creation of more efficient solar cells and opens up new avenues for applications in fields such as photocatalysis, sensors, and imaging.
A Columbia University study reveals radiation levels on some Marshall Islands are above legal limits, citing widespread contamination from US nuclear tests. Residents of affected islands face potential harm from radiation exposure, highlighting the need for thorough environmental remediation.
Researchers from Columbia University and Harvard are collaborating on a $1 million project to advance ultracold chemistry, enabling the study of previously inaccessible molecular species and reactions. The team aims to create a range of molecules using metal attachment and laser cooling techniques.
A new national study led by Columbia University aims to understand barriers to minority group participation in genetic studies and support policies to create a more diverse genetic database. The four-year study will analyze diversity and inclusion practices at academic medical centers across the US.
Researchers have created a novel material that harnesses water to deliver force and motion, revolutionizing the development of soft robots. This new material is made from spores and adhesives, providing an alternative to traditional materials used in hard actuators.
Astronomers discover that a violent neutron star collision near the solar system created 0.3% of Earth's heaviest elements, such as gold and platinum, 4.6 billion years ago. This cosmic event is believed to have occurred in our neighborhood, about 1000 light years from the cradle of Earth.
The study reveals the full structure of human ACLY at high resolution, paving the way for targeted drug development. ACLY inhibition could provide a better approach for treating cancer and metabolic disorders.
A Columbia University study found that adversity-induced disruptions in gut microbes are associated with changes in brain function in young children. The research linked gastrointestinal symptoms in childhood to potential emotional health issues later in life.
The Asian longhorned tick population has grown dramatically across Staten Island, with researchers finding the species in 7 of 13 parks surveyed in 2017 and 16 of 32 in 2018. The ticks can clone themselves in large numbers and are likely to continue spreading throughout the city.
Researchers at Columbia University have developed a new method to fine-tune adjacent layers of graphene using pressure to induce superconductivity. The discovery provides critical confirmation of previous findings and offers an alternative paradigm for manipulating electronic properties in graphene, potentially leading to the developme...
Researchers at Columbia University have developed a chemical process to convert infrared light to visible energy, allowing innocuous radiation to penetrate living tissue without damaging it. This technology holds promise for enhancing the effectiveness of photodynamic therapy in treating various diseases.
Researchers have identified a group of genes that induce differences in the developing brains of male and female roundworms, triggering puberty. This genetic pathway may serve the same function in controlling human sexual maturation timing, providing new insights into sex-based brain differences.
A Columbia University study found that the brain automatically preserves memories of high-reward events and filters out inconsequential ones. This process occurs immediately after a reward is received, with a longer overnight window including sleep also playing a role.
A new study published in JAMA Ophthalmology found that traditional glaucoma tests often underestimate the severity of central vision loss. Researchers developed a finer visual field test to assess macular damage and found it can improve diagnosis at no extra cost.
Astronomers at Columbia University have discovered a candidate exomoon orbiting a gas-giant planet 8,000 light-years away. The moon is estimated to be 1.5% the mass of its companion planet and lies within the star's habitable zone, where liquid water may exist on solid surfaces.
Researchers from Columbia University and USGS develop a physics-based model that replicates California's statistical seismic hazard model. This breakthrough marks a turning point in earthquake forecasting, providing accurate hazard estimates for engineers and regulators to make informed decisions on building codes and construction costs.