Researchers from ETH Zurich have discovered a new form of innate immune defence against certain RNA viruses, including those causing hepatitis C, yellow fever, and dengue fever. The NMD system, which is a quality control mechanism in cells, also serves as a general virus restriction mechanism in plants.
Mantle plumes may be responsible for breaking up continents, according to a new study. The researchers used high-resolution computer simulations to demonstrate how the interaction between a plume and a plate under tensile stress can lead to continental breakup, forming rift systems and creating volcanoes.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a nanoscale assembly line that uses mobile assembly carriers and biological motors to assemble complex substances. The system, which is three times thinner than a human hair, enables the selective modification of organic molecules and the assembly of nanotechnological components.
Researchers find that El Niño and La Niña events, as well as weakened solar activity and aerosol concentrations, contributed to the recent slowdown in global warming. The study suggests that short-term climate fluctuations can be explained by natural factors without contradicting long-term warming trends.
A new implantable molecular device measures blood pH and triggers insulin production to regulate metabolic processes. The device, tested in mice with type 1 diabetes, successfully compensated for acidosis and restored normal blood sugar levels.
Researchers found that internet activity significantly influences Bitcoin's value, with correlations between price developments, new user growth, and online searches. The study also identified two positive feedback loops and a negative feedback loop, highlighting the complex dynamics of the Bitcoin economy.
A new fusion molecule has been developed to treat rheumatoid arthritis in mice, with promising results showing the animals' symptoms disappear completely. The therapy targets specific immune messengers and reduces side effects by concentrating the active substance at the site of disease, offering a potential long-term cure.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new approach for tuberculosis drugs, inspired by the bacteria-derived antibiotic pyridomycin. The new molecule is more stable and easier to produce synthetically, offering a potential solution to multidrug-resistant strains.
Researchers found that malaria parasites manipulate host body odor to make infected individuals more attractive to hungry mosquitoes. Even after symptoms have subsided, the scent of infected mice remained elevated for life, suggesting a lifelong impact on the disease.
A Swiss research team created an innovative joystick for animation artists, consisting of modular building blocks that can be assembled into any virtual character shape. The device features integrated sensors that track joint movements, enabling smooth character articulation.
Scientists at ETH Zurich have identified a mechanism that protects immune cells from natural killer cells. Type I interferon receptors play a crucial role in this process, and its absence can lead to the elimination of healthy immune cells. This discovery may have implications for understanding autoimmune diseases.
Researchers at ETH Zurich found that unploughed stubble reflects more solar radiation than tilled surfaces, resulting in a 50% higher level of reflection and a significant effect on extreme heat. No-till farming can reduce local temperatures by up to 2°C on hot days.
Researchers from ETH Zurich have identified a new class of zeolite catalysts that can withstand the formation of hydrocarbon deposits, which clog pores and block active sites. The key to their improved performance lies in the internal structure of the catalysts, with well-connected nano-sized channels and numerous openings.
Researchers discover protein toxic to nematodes, protecting fungus and plant roots from parasites. The toxin docks on modified sugar structures, paving the way for novel vaccines against parasites and pathogenic germs.
Researchers have developed a new X-ray phase-contrast mammography technique that provides high-contrast images of breast tissue. This technique helps distinguish between different types of microcalcifications and can aid in assigning them to malignant lesions, enabling non-invasive detection of premalignant lesions.
Researchers found that lava flows, not water, carved the massive Noctis Labyrinthus and Valles Marineris canyons on Mars. The study suggests that there was less water on Mars than previously thought, making life on the planet less likely.
A new DNA-based label has been developed to detect counterfeit olive oil, allowing for the identification of producers and authentication of products. The label uses nanotechnology and natural DNA, offering a cheap and safe way to detect adulteration.
A study found that Twitter conversations among men feature fewer mentions of women compared to female-female conversations. The Bechdel test was applied to analyze the gender bias in social media platforms, revealing a male-biased environment on Twitter.
The team of researchers produced a stable porous membrane that is thinner than a nanometre, consisting of two layers of graphene on which tiny pores were etched. The membrane can permeate tiny molecules and may be used for waterproof clothing, water filtration, or gas separation.
Scientists have discovered a link between hereditary trauma and short RNA molecules, which can be passed down from one generation to the next. The research found that traumatic stress alters the expression of microRNAs in mice, leading to behavioral symptoms such as depression and altered metabolism.
Researchers developed a self-defending surface that releases hot foam to deter attackers, protecting cash boxes in ATMs. The film is made of plastic layers filled with chemicals that mix when damaged, producing a violent reaction.
A recent study found that glucosamine supplementation extended the lifespan of nematode worms by 5% and ageing mice by almost 10%, promoting glucose metabolism and protection against diabetes. This effect is comparable to a low-carb diet, suggesting a potential health benefit for humans.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed hot nanoparticles that can kill tumour tissue with heat by absorbing near-infrared light. The particles are coated with a silicon dioxide layer and aggregate in a way that allows them to absorb light and generate heat.
Scientists from ETH Zurich have synthesized uniform antimony nanocrystals, which can store both lithium and sodium ions, making them prime candidates for anode materials in both lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries. The researchers found that the optimal size-performance relationship of these nanocrystals is between 20-100 nanometres.
Researchers confirm D-Wave uses quantum effects but are critical of its classification as a computer. The system solves optimization problems but is slower than traditional computers for most tests.
A new simulation module developed at ETH Zurich uses an ant algorithm to predict the interaction of molecules with human proteins, identifying potential side effects and optimizing molecular design. The module can now design new active agents in minutes, suggesting necessary chemical synthesis steps.
A study published in Physical Review Letters reveals that exchange rate fluctuations can be modeled using the principles of statistical physics. The research demonstrates that market orders and transactions influence price movements in a manner similar to the impact of thermal agitation on particles in a fluid.
Researchers discovered that peat soils can act like gigantic batteries, using humic substances to accept electrons under anoxic conditions. When oxygen enters, these substances release electrons to oxygen, thereby regenerating their capacity to accept electrons and suppressing methane formation.
A team of researchers has found a link between chloracne and a molecular switch called Nrf2, which causes skin changes similar to those in dioxin victims. The study suggests that therapeutic targeting of Nrf2 may be problematic due to its role in detoxification.
Researchers have discovered a new type of bacterium in sponges that produces bioactive substances, including polyketides and peptides. The discovery, published in Nature, sheds light on the complex symbiotic relationships between sponges and bacteria, and could lead to breakthroughs in medical treatment.
Researchers at ETH Zurich deciphered the structure of the large subunit of the mitochondrial ribosome, a complex enzyme that deciphers genetic code and assembles amino acids into proteins. The study's success relies on a combination of high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy and chemical cross-linking combined with mass spectrometry.
A new study by ETH Zurich researchers shows that robotic therapy outperforms conventional physiotherapy in improving sensory-motor function and arm mobility. Robot-assisted therapy enables patients to carry out exercises independently and motivates them via computer game elements, leading to better results in terms of mobility.
Scientists at ETH Zurich have created a new form of thin-film technology, enabling the fabrication of extremely flexible and functional electronics. These components can be applied to textiles or worn on the skin to create 'smart' objects, monitoring various bodily functions.
Researchers at ETH Zurich and ESRF have identified a trigger for supereruptions, finding that the overpressure generated by density differences in the magma chamber alone can trigger an eruption. The study suggests that supervolcanos are not triggered solely by overpressure due to magma recharge.
Researchers discovered that Salmonella Typhimurium obtains energy for its attack by stealing hydrogen from the microbiota. This 'theft-based hydrogen economy' allows the pathogen to find an energy source in any new animal host.
The buff-tailed bumblebee, introduced to Chile in 1998, has spread rapidly throughout South America, outcompeting native species and potentially disrupting the ecosystem. The parasite Crithidia bombi is a key factor in the decline of native bumblebees.
ETH Zurich researchers discovered a mechanism that enables yeast cells to memorise 'bad experiences' during reproduction by forming protein aggregates. These aggregates make future mating attempts more difficult, conserving energy and preventing unproductive reproduction. The system appears to be universal and relatively old in evolution.
ETH-scientists develop software to scan 3D models using smartphone technology, allowing users to capture objects easily and efficiently. The app uses inertial sensors and graphics processing power to enable faster reconstruction and increased interactivity.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed an implantable genetic circuit that monitors and regulates blood fat levels, reducing hunger and promoting weight loss in obese mice. The innovative device exploits the natural human satiety mechanism, providing a potential alternative to surgical interventions.
Researchers found that giving an iodine capsule to breastfeeding mothers is more effective in providing their babies with the essential trace element than administering it directly to the infant. However, both methods have limitations and do not guarantee sufficient iodine intake for both mother and child.
A new study by Thomas Frölicher suggests that the Earth's atmosphere could continue to warm for hundreds of years after a complete stop of CO2 emissions, leading to a 25% increase in global temperature. The ESM2M climate model reveals that regional ocean heat uptake is crucial in understanding the effects of climate change.
The study reveals that natural fluctuations in the climate system are the primary cause of differences in short and medium-term projections. Despite this, researchers have found ways to make predictions about local climate extremes for certain regions and large areas, highlighting the importance of considering regional variability.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a novel approach to study thermoelectric materials by simulating the behavior of complex systems using ultra-cold atoms. The 'thermoelectric material emulator' allows for precise comparison between theory and experiments, shedding light on fundamental processes underlying thermoelectricity.
A team of Swiss researchers has developed a method to extract DNA from cultured pearls, allowing for the identification of species and authentication of luxury jewelry. This technique, which is non-destructive and non-invasive, uses genetic fingerprinting to differentiate between pearls from various oyster species.
Scientists at ETH Zurich have created a genetic module that can be controlled via dopamine, which activates the production of an antihypertensive agent. The researchers found that contact with a female mouse triggered feelings of happiness in male mice, correcting hypertension and lowering blood pressure to normal levels.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have discovered a new antiviral response in mammals, utilizing the RNA interference pathway to combat viral infections. This discovery sheds light on a previously overlooked aspect of innate immunity and highlights the simplicity and universality of this system.
Researchers from ETH Zurich found that vitamin niacin and its metabolite nicotinamide increase lifespan by promoting the formation of free radicals in roundworms. This contradicts common textbook opinion on antioxidants' role in health.
Researchers develop new technique to find coherent ocean eddies, equivalent to black holes, which can moderate the negative impact of melting sea ice. These 'eddy-black holes' can also transport warm and salty water, influencing climate change and ocean currents.
Researchers at ETH Zurich developed an internal combustion engine that achieves fuel efficiency of less than 2.4l per 100km while emitting less than half the CO2 compared to traditional engines. The natural gas-diesel hybrid engine uses sophisticated control engineering and innovative electronic combustion control.
Scientists developed a new SERS sensor with high sensitivity and reproducibility, detecting a specific organic species in low concentrations. The sensor uses vertically arranged carbon nanotubes to amplify Raman-scattered light signals.