A study by University of Basel researchers found that people who laugh frequently may better cope with stressful events. The study also discovered no statistical correlation between laughter intensity and stress symptoms.
A new study maps caesium and plutonium radionuclide concentrations in Swiss soils, tracing sources of nuclear fallout from 1960 to 2009. The research uses a caesium/plutonium ratio calculation method to distinguish between nuclear test fallout and the Chernobyl accident.
A comprehensive analysis of the consequences of the 2018 drought and heat event in European forests reveals that even drought-resistant tree species suffered long-term damage. The study suggests that future scenarios require redesigning forests to combat heat and drought, and new analytical approaches are needed to track tree mortality...
A Basel study found that COVID-19 patients' lungs have insufficient levels of lopinavir and hydroxychloroquine to fight the virus. The drugs, previously thought to be potential treatments, were shown to be ineffective due to inflammation blocking their absorption.
Researchers have successfully produced porous, nitrogen-containing graphene ribbons exhibiting semiconducting properties, which is essential for their potential applications in electronics. These new materials could display extraordinary magnetic properties, making them suitable for quantum computing applications.
During lockdown, people slept longer and more regularly due to flexible working hours, but reported a deterioration in perceived sleep quality. Physical activity outdoors may help counteract this negative impact.
Researchers at the University of Basel have developed a new communication protocol that offers ultimate privacy protection by adding artificial noise to information about the crypto key. This allows for security guarantees even in cases where devices are unknown entities, overcoming a significant obstacle to experimental implementation.
Scientists analyzed tiny tungsten ditelluride crystals and detected characteristic oscillations indicating current flows along narrow edges, supporting theoretical predictions of higher-order topological material properties.
Researchers have created a new tool for quantum technologies by coupling atoms with nanomechanical membranes using laser light. The technique enables strong interactions between quantum systems over longer distances, opening up possibilities for quantum networks and simulations.
Researchers at the University of Basel have elucidated a mechanism in which certain bacteria, including MRSA, withstand acidic conditions. This is achieved through the synthesis and transportation of lipoteichoic acids, which provide stability to the bacterial cell wall.
Researchers found that genomic changes occurred quickly, with river variants increasing in frequency by 2.5% over a single generation. This study demonstrates rapid evolution in non-microorganisms, potentially aiding organisms to cope with human-induced environmental changes.
The European garden spider's population density in Switzerland has dropped alarmingly, with a decline of 140 times compared to the previous average value. This suggests an insect meltdown is affecting ecosystems, leading to impoverished conditions and potential collapse.
Researchers at the University of Basel developed a non-invasive technique to study individual molecules precisely. The new force spectroscopy method detects molecular vibrations without perturbing its quantum state.
Researchers have discovered that T follicular helper cells can persist for at least 400 days after infection, supporting antibody production even in late stages. This finding opens up new prospects for creating long-term acquired immunity through vaccination strategies.
A team of researchers at the University of Basel's Biozentrum has uncovered a genetic signature that enables cells to adapt their protein production according to their state. This mechanism plays a crucial role in regulating protein production during cell division, which is essential for efficient use of cellular resources.
Researchers at the University of Basel have discovered that chromosomes reorganize into a barbell-like structure during early embryonic development in nematodes. This arrangement is crucial for cell maturation and prevents developmental disorders.
The round goby's exceptional adaptability is attributed to its immune system, which features up to 30 times more inflammatory genes than comparable species. This enables the fish to deal with pathogens and extreme environmental conditions, facilitating its successful colonization of diverse waters around the world.
A signaling molecule, c-di-GMP, initiates a clock-like mechanism in bacteria that determines individual reproduction. The molecule activates enzymes called kinases, which prepare the cell for division under favorable living conditions.
A systematic review of 23 studies on pharmacological migraine prophylaxis in children and adolescents found that none of the tested medications had a significant long-term effect compared to placebo. Short-term improvements were seen for propranolol and topiramate, but these effects were not sustained.
A new study analyzed reading behavior on the digital platform Wattpad, finding that young people intensely engage with both popular and classic literature, but differ in their interaction styles. The research sheds light on the impact of social media on our understanding of culture and literary habits.
Psychologists from the University of Basel found that people focus their attention on the two most promising options when choosing between multiple alternatives. This leads to faster decisions and improved efficiency. The study's results propose a mathematical model describing dynamic interactions of preference formation and eye moveme...
Researchers at the University of Basel have developed biocompatible polymer vesicles that can enter the cell nucleus, allowing for targeted drug delivery. The nanocontainers can be designed to transport therapeutic agents directly to the cell's control center.
Researchers at the University of Basel have discovered a cellular machine called FERARI that sorts out reusable proteins for recycling, introducing a new 'kiss-and-run' mechanism. This process saves energy and time by reusing valuable cell components, potentially mitigating diseases associated with disrupted recycling processes.
Researchers used microeconomic models to analyze the circumstances required for reciprocal egg trading to work. The results reveal that eggs must be costly to produce and it's essential to identify cheaters before mating. This complex system of trading helps hamlets avoid a costly dilemma by dividing the reproductive role.
Researchers developed molecular factories by combining natural vesicles with synthetic organelles, demonstrating no toxicity in animal models. These factories can produce complex structures and assembled molecules, paving the way for artificial cells in laboratory or living organisms.
Researchers have discovered a novel combination of antibodies that significantly enhances the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapy, particularly in 'cold' tumors. The combination stabilizes tumor blood vessels and strengthens the immune system, leading to improved tumor tissue destruction.
Researchers quantify tiny height differences and detect different atom arrangements in silicene using low-temperature atomic force microscopy. The unevenness, known as buckling, influences the material's electronic properties, unlike graphene.
Chaperone proteins protect α-Synuclein from cell damage in healthy cells. Impaired chaperone binding leads to α-Synuclein accumulation and mitochondrial destruction, characteristic of Parkinson's disease. The study provides new insights into the role of molecular bodyguards in neurodegenerative disorders.
A study by University of Basel researchers found that a cellular pump restricts bacterial growth in host cells by causing magnesium shortage. This discovery provides new insights into the role of NRAMP1 transporter in combating intracellular pathogens.
Researchers from the University of Basel found that adding white noise to a quiet environment improves the brain's ability to distinguish subtle tone differences. This is achieved through reduced neuronal activity in the auditory cortex, allowing for more precise sound perception and potentially improving cochlear implant results.
Researchers have successfully created an efficient quantum-mechanical light-matter interface using a microscopic cavity, enabling interactions between individual photons and artificial atoms. The experiment demonstrates the potential for new quantum technological applications in photonics and quantum information processing.
Physicists at the University of Basel have experimentally verified that the heat generated through friction in topological insulators can be significantly reduced. By regulating voltage, they observed a novel quantum-mechanical dissipation mechanism, enabling targeted control over electronic friction.
Researchers at the University of Basel have developed a new strategy for synthesizing complex natural products, including Epicoccin G and Rostratin A, using C-H bond activation. The approach results in high yields and reduces the number of steps compared to previous methods, opening up new avenues for medicinal applications.
A subset of immune cells from PID patients exhibit increased cellular respiration, leading to inflammation and autoimmunity. Researchers successfully administered a targeted treatment with fewer side effects.
Researchers found that people value diversity when making decisions for others, but prioritize similarity when working with their own teams. This discrepancy has implications for organizational diversity and highlights the need to involve multiple perspectives in hiring and team decisions.
A study by the University of Basel found that global warming can cause lakes to cool at the bottom despite warming at the surface, leading to increased carbon burial and reduced greenhouse gas production. The research suggests that this effect is most pronounced in small and shallow lakes worldwide.
Researchers found that defects at the interface between silicon carbide and silicon dioxide can compromise its efficiency. However, altering oxidation parameters can reduce these defects, potentially leading to improved performance. This discovery could contribute to more effective use of electrical power.
A study reveals that alternative splicing controls the identity and function of nerve cells, allowing for a complex neuronal network with limited genes. The research team mapped splice variants in different types of neurons, identifying unique repertoires that shape their characteristics.
Researchers found that Id4 controls whether stem cells remain in a state of rest or enter cell division, with increasing age leading to hyperactive signaling pathway inhibiting cell division.
Research found that strength training reduces endurance muscle fiber number by producing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which remodels neuromuscular synapses. This results in a decline in endurance muscles and an increase in strength muscles.
A study published in Nature Communications reveals that the activation of mTORC1 must be tightly balanced to maintain the neuromuscular junction after nerve injury. This balance is crucial for proper muscle response and preventing age-related muscle atrophy.
A team of researchers refutes the long-held common thesis that Parkinson's disease is caused by deposits of insoluble fibrils consisting of alpha-synculein. Instead, they found that Lewy bodies contain mainly membrane fragments, lipids, and other cellular material.
Researchers at the University of Basel's Biozentrum have discovered a new group of nerve cells in the red nucleus that changes with fine motor tasks. Practicing grasping movements strengthens connections between neurons, optimizing movement and storing it in the brain as a code.
Researchers at the University of Basel have developed a DNA-encoded chemical library of over one million macrocycles, which can be used to identify new medicines. The library is rich in diversity and includes elements commonly found in natural biologically active macrocycles.
Scientists have developed a method to determine the geometry of electrons in quantum dots, allowing for better control of electron spins. This could lead to the development of smaller information units in future quantum computers.
Researchers have identified two cell populations in the substantia nigra that control distinct phases of locomotion. The study reveals a critical role for these populations in maintaining correct movement, and their dysfunction may contribute to Parkinson's disease symptoms.
Researchers found that deep-sea fish have expanded rhodopsin genes to detect bioluminescent signals, giving them an evolutionary advantage. The silver spinyfin has the most photopigment genes of any vertebrate, allowing it to detect specific wavelengths of light produced by bioluminescent organisms.
Graphene decoupling with potassium bromide leads to improved electrical properties, closing the gap to pure graphene. This method reduces damage and contamination during transfer, enabling defect-free production.
Researchers at the University of Basel use diamond quantum sensors to study the strength and alignment of magnetization in two-dimensional materials. They found that strain in the lattice is responsible for the unusual magnetic properties of chromium triiodide, which was previously unknown.
A Swiss study finds that individualized nutrition significantly benefits hospital patients, improving treatment outcomes and reducing serious complications. The trial, involving over 2,000 patients, showed a statistically significant reduction in mortality and complication rates.