How the heart starts beating
Heart cells in developing zebrafish transition from silence to beating in a simultaneous, coordinated manner. Each cell can beat independently, and the heartbeat starts from different locations in different zebrafish.
Basic Research
Articles tagged with Basic Research
Researchers at UMass Amherst show how a small strand of RNA is key to fighting cancer
Researchers at UMass Amherst have identified a small strand of microRNA called let-7 as crucial in governing the formation of cellular memories that enable T-cells to recognize and attack tumor cells. This discovery offers new insights into how vaccines work and could lead to improved cancer therapies by boosting cellular memory.
Five factors that assess well-being of science predict support for increasing US science funding
A study by Annenberg Public Policy Center researchers identifies five factors assessing science's self-presentation and their impact on public support for increasing US science funding. The factors capture differences between conservatives' and liberals' perceptions of science, highlighting key differences in what matters to each group.
Greenwashing a threat to a ‘nature positive’ world
Researchers warn that greenwashing poses a threat to achieving a 'nature positive' world, where environmental decline halts and biodiversity improves. The University of Queensland study emphasizes the need for standards and transparency to distinguish genuine efforts from misleading claims.
NIH releases strategic plan for research on herpes simplex virus 1 and 2
The NIH has released a strategic plan for research on herpes simplex virus 1 and 2, outlining four priorities: improving fundamental knowledge, accelerating diagnosis, treating HSV while seeking a curative therapeutic, and preventing infection. The plan aims to reduce the burden of HSV-1 and HSV-2 in the US.
Modernizing the Navy’s microgrids
The project aims to assess the operational resilience of microgrids on DoD installations and ships, using new operational resilience indexes developed by Lehigh University researcher Javad Khazaei. The team will develop a dashboard to monitor resilience indexes in real-time, providing recommendations for improving the systems.
Leading the way in global STI research
A new study published in Virology Journal confirms 25 different types of HPV prevalent in Nigeria, highlighting the need for region-specific vaccines. The discovery underscores the limitations of existing vaccines like Gardasil-9, which only protects against nine cancer-causing types.
WVU bioenergy researcher digging into the root of sustainability
Jennifer Kane is studying how microbes interact with Miscanthus roots to boost productivity and sustainability. The research aims to understand what conditions enable the plant to prosper, with potential implications for bioenergy production on marginal lands.
SLAC fires up the world’s most powerful X-ray laser: LCLS-II ushers in a new era of science
The newly upgraded Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory successfully produced its first X-rays, ushering in a new era of research. Scientists will now be able to examine quantum materials with unprecedented resolution and study biological molecules to develop new pharmaceuticals.
Researchers uncover NSMF protein’s role in relieving DNA replication stress
Researchers discovered NSMF protein's role in alleviating DNA replication stress by displacing weakly bound RPA proteins and promoting phosphorylation. This mechanism accelerates relief of replication stress, offering a new direction for treating various diseases, including cancer and age-related conditions.
Ballet of the brain: Unlocking the choreography of movement
Researchers used a new analytical approach to understand how the brain controls movement and eye stability in zebrafish. By analyzing neuronal activity, they identified two main features that correspond to specific types of movements, including eye rotation and body positioning.
RESEARCH ALERT: City of Hope scientists identify new therapeutic target for metastatic cancer
Researchers discovered a potential new target for treating metastatic cancer by blocking the cytosol-to-mitochondria citrate flux process, which induces oxidative stress and cell death. The study's findings provide additional data to support therapy targeting this process for cancer patients with metastasis.
Unlocking quantum potential: Harnessing high-dimensional quantum states with QDs and OAM
Researchers have generated nearly deterministic OAM-based entangled states using QDs, enabling hybrid entanglement states in high-dimensional Hilbert spaces. This breakthrough offers a bridge between photonic technologies for quantum advancements.
On the track of elusive neutrinos
Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz have successfully measured the energy of electrons produced in tritium beta decay, allowing them to set a first upper limit on neutrino mass using 'CRES' technology. The method involves detecting microwave radiation emitted by electrons as they travel in a magnetic field.
Key role of epigenetic information in stem cell function unveiled
A groundbreaking study from the University of Copenhagen sheds light on the significance of transmitting epigenetic information during cell division for proper function of embryonic stem cells. The researchers found that histones play a crucial role in maintaining epigenome stability and cell identity.
UMC Utrecht investigates the link between RSV infection and chronic respiratory tract disease
Researchers aim to identify genetic risk factors and mechanisms underlying virus-induced asthma, using artificial intelligence-based techniques and patient-derived models. The study may lead to personalized prevention campaigns and mechanism-targeted drugs.
Immune cells shape their own path
Researchers at ISTA discovered that immune cells actively shape their environment by consuming chemokine signals, allowing them to generate their own guidance cues. This dynamic regulation enables collective migration of immune cells and has significant implications for enhancing immune response coordination.
Editorial: Epigenetic aging in oocytes
The editorial discusses epigenetic mechanisms leading to oocyte quality loss, a significant factor in age-related fertility decline. Researchers highlight the importance of understanding this process to address the growing issue of advanced maternal age and its impact on reproduction.
Sleep data from over 220,000 people reveal global differences in weekly sleep variability and sleep extension
A new study analyzing over 220,000 people's sleep data shows that those in Asia have shorter sleep duration and lower quality, with more variable sleep timing on weekdays. In contrast, people in other regions tend to have longer weekend sleep extension, suggesting a cultural impact on sleep habits.
How Norway is helping to restore humanity inside U.S. prisons
The Norwegian approach to prison reform focuses on building relationships and trust, reducing solitary confinement. In a US pilot program, residents spent more time outside their cells, with a 74% drop in assaults and an 86% decrease in staff use-of-force incidents.
How fast does the charge migrate in molecules?
Scientists have successfully measured the speed of molecular charge migration in a carbon-chain molecule, revealing a movement of several angstroms per femtosecond. The study used a two-color high harmonic spectroscopy scheme with machine learning reconstruction to achieve a temporal resolution of 50 as.
Augusta University researcher calls for modernizing the UN's traditional approach to population replacement measurement
Augusta University researcher Arni S.R. Srinivasa Rao calls for updating the UN's traditional approach to measuring population replacement levels. He proposes a new formula that allows for more timely and accurate measurement, which is essential for understanding emerging global demographics.
Anesthesiologists should play bigger role in perioperative care of people with Substance Use Disorders
The series emphasizes the importance of anesthesiologists in addressing unmet needs of patients with Substance Use Disorder (SUDs) in the perioperative period. Anesthesiologists are urged to adopt a broader approach to effective disease management, incorporating trauma-informed patient care and increased collaboration with addiction me...
Graphene discovery could help generate hydrogen cheaply and sustainably
Researchers from The University of Warwick and The University of Manchester have solved the long-standing puzzle of why graphene is permeable to protons. Protons are strongly accelerated around nanoscale wrinkles in perfect graphene crystals, which could lead to more sustainable hydrogen production.
Research group detects a quantum entanglement wave for the first time using real-space measurements
Researchers from Aalto University have successfully detected a triplon, a quantum entanglement wave, in an artificial quantum magnet created using small organic molecules. This achievement marks the first direct observation of triplons using real-space measurements.
Brown fluid dynamics researchers shed light on how partially submerged objects experience drag
A team of engineers at Brown University discovered that drag on partially submerged objects can be three or four times greater than on fully submerged objects. The study found that the level of water repellency plays a key role in drag forces, with superhydrophobic materials encountering more drag.
Dataset revolutionizes understanding of beta barrels, promising targets for vaccine development
Researchers from the University of Kansas have created a powerful dataset to facilitate drug development against gram-negative bacteria. The dataset reveals over 270,000 previously unidentified outer-membrane proteins with potential as vaccine targets.
Ringing protons give insight into early universe
Researchers explore nucleon resonances, gaining insight into early universe's chaotic state. The experiment provides new information on the 3D structure of resonating protons and neutrons.
Previously unknown function: Noelin proteins central for learning ability in mammalian brains
A recent study published in Neuron reveals that Noelin proteins play a crucial role in learning and memory formation in the mammalian brain. The study found that these proteins act as 'universal anchors' controlling the distribution and dynamics of AMPA receptors, which are essential for synaptic plasticity.
Study observes sudden acceleration of flow, generates new boundary layer
Aerodynamic researchers at University of Illinois create wind tunnel experiment to study internal boundary layers and their impact on flow behavior. They identify a new internal boundary layer that changes the flow's behavior, providing insights into aerodynamics physics and improving turbulence models for complex designs.
Wellcome Sanger Institute: Multiple organ functions of yolk sac revealed by early human development map
Researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute mapped the multiple organ functions of the human yolk sac, revealing its role in producing key hormones and blood cells. The study provides novel insights into the earliest stages of immune cell development and has implications for understanding childhood diseases.
Ink dries on printable electronics DOE award for University of Arizona professor
Printable electronics have potential in solar power and LED screens but face challenges in scalable manufacturing. Professor Adam Printz is using a new RAPID printing process to examine fundamental characteristics and advance the field.
Anti-obesity drug improves associative learning in people with obesity
Researchers found that liraglutide improves associative learning in people with obesity by restoring brain activity to normal-weight levels. The study showed that participants with obesity had reduced ability to associate sensory stimuli and decreased brain activity compared to those with normal weight.
Accurate data on dynamic molecular aggregates in cells for the first time
Researchers from University of Freiburg and University of Cambridge have observed dynamic molecular aggregates in cells for the first time. These condensates play a crucial role in controlling biochemical processes and are regulated by active biological mechanisms, not just physical forces.
Scientists identify genes linked to high production of key antibody
Researchers have identified key genes involved in producing large amounts of immunoglobulin G, a crucial antibody in the human body. The discovery could lead to advancements in manufacturing antibody-based therapies for diseases such as cancer and arthritis.
Behind the rind: new genomic insights into watermelon evolution, quality, and resilience
Scientists at the Boyce Thompson Institute have constructed a comprehensive 'super-pangenome' for watermelon and its wild relatives, uncovering beneficial genes lost during domestication. This genetic toolkit can be used to develop varieties with enhanced yield, increased disease resistance, and improved adaptability.
Making molecules dance to our tune reveals what drives their first movements
A new technique combining ultrafast physics and spectroscopy reveals the dance of molecular 'coherence' in unprecedented clarity. This shows a vibrational effect, rather than motion for the functional part of the biological reaction that follows.
'Crushing' chemical innovations at the heart of newly expanded NSF Center
The newly expanded NSF Center for the Mechanical Control of Chemistry will investigate atomic-scale mysteries of crushing chemistry, enabling new advances in chemistry. The center will provide insights necessary for scaling up mechanical chemistry research across the US.
Powerful gene editing approach boosts rotifers in pantheon of laboratory animals
Researchers at the Marine Biological Laboratory have devised a method to precisely alter rotifer genomes using CRISPR-Cas9, enabling the study of fundamental biology and evolution. The new approach will allow scientists to investigate various aspects of biology, including aging, DNA repair mechanisms, and mitochondrial function.
On-off switch for enzymes
A protein found in bacteria activates its enzymatic activity by up to 10,000 times when exposed to blue light, acting like an on-off switch. This discovery could lead to enhanced and optimized optogenetic tools and medical treatments.
True shape of lithium revealed for the first time in UCLA research
The study reveals that metallic lithium forms a rhombic dodecahedron in the absence of corrosion, which could lead to safer lithium-metal batteries with increased performance. The researchers developed a new technique for depositing lithium faster than corrosion forms, allowing them to observe this unique shape.
A boost in dopamine during adolescence permanently amplifies dopamine function, impulsivity, and aggression in mice
Researchers found that blocking dopamine transporters during mid-adolescence increases adult aggression, impulsivity, and the behavioral response to amphetamine in mice. Artificially stimulating dopaminergic neurons also exacerbated impulsive behavior in tasks. The study suggests potential harm from stimulant exposure in healthy teens ...
Robotic grippers offer unprecedented combo of strength and delicacy
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a robotic gripping device that can handle ultrasoft, ultrathin, and heavy objects with excellent balance of strength, precision, and gentleness. The design uses kirigami and can be fabricated from biodegradable materials.
Faster thin film devices for energy storage and electronics
Researchers have successfully grown high-quality single-crystalline T-Nb2O5 thin films with two-dimensional vertical ionic transport channels, enabling fast and dramatic changes in electrical properties. The material undergoes a significant electrical change upon Li insertion, allowing it to switch from an insulator to a metal.
Calculations reveal high-resolution view of quarks inside protons
Researchers used supercomputers to predict the spatial distributions of charges, momentum, and other properties of 'up' and 'down' quarks within protons. The results revealed key differences in the characteristics of the up and down quarks, implying different contributions to the proton's fundamental properties.
Waves of charge signal rare physics at work inside a superconductor
Researchers have observed unusual waves of charge within a crystal of uranium ditelluride, a previously unseen facet of its superconductivity. The findings reveal a static variation in two different properties: one related to charge and the other to interacting electron pairs.
Sex pheromone of moths is a precise mix of ingredients
Researchers identified a precise mix of ingredients in male moths' pheromones that increases mating chances. The discovery reveals the role of plant-derived substances, such as methyl salicylate, in attracting females.
Male moth ‘aphrodisiac’ revealed
Researchers at North Carolina State University identified a specific blend of pheromone chemicals used by male moths during courtship, including an aphrodisiac called methyl salicylate. Female moths can recognize this chemical through two smell receptors, and its presence in males' hairpencils is linked to mating success.
Stick-to-itiveness: Pitt engineers show self-organization of sticky micron-to-mesoscale 3D structures in confined fluids
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a system that uses fluid mechanics and chemo-mechanical processes to autonomously assemble hierarchical 3D structures. The system utilizes sticky bonds to drive self-organization, allowing for the construction of complex devices with minimal external intervention.
Recent advances and perspective of photonic bound states in the continuum
Bound states in the continuum (BICs) provide a generalized approach to achieve extremely high-Q resonant cavities. BICs offer powerful mechanisms for enhancing light-matter interactions and have been explored in various photonic structures over the past few decades.
Cardiovascular disease: key molecular pathway affecting atherosclerosis progression discovered
A team of researchers identified a specific subtype of complement-producing macrophages in atherosclerotic lesions that exacerbate plaque necrosis and cardiovascular events. The study suggests a potential therapeutic target to control complement activation within cells, which may also apply to other chronic inflammatory diseases.
Bacteria like cholera may be crucial in the development of new antibiotics
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have discovered how a bacterium called Vibrio alginolyticus moves using sodium ions, which could lead to new targets for antibiotics. The study provides insights into the flagellum's movement and may help develop novel antibiotics to combat antibiotic resistance.
Researchers grow high quality superconductor, find resilience against magnetic fields
Scientists at North Carolina State University have successfully grown high-quality thin films of the recently discovered superconductor material KTaO3. The researchers found that the material retains its superconducting properties even when exposed to extremely high magnetic fields.
New resource harmonizes 16S and shotgun sequencing data for microbiome research
A new reference database, Greengenes2, allows researchers to combine 16S and shotgun sequencing data, improving the reproducibility of microbiome studies. This enables the reuse of millions of samples in older studies, strengthening physicians' ability to draw clinical conclusions.
Researchers develop breakthrough prototype of stretchable fabric-based lithium-ion battery
Researchers at University of Houston develop prototype of fully stretchable fabric-based lithium-ion battery, addressing safety concerns and enabling new applications for wearable technology. The innovation uses conductive silver fabric as a platform and current collector, providing stable performance and safer properties.
Essential cell death-regulating mechanisms important for recovery from SARS-CoV infection and skin injury discovered
Researchers have uncovered a novel mechanism of cell death regulation, shedding light on its significance during conditions such as SARS-CoV infection and skin injury. The study reveals that the cleavage of cFLIP restrains cell death during viral infection and tissue injury, favoring tissue repair.
Enhancing image quality with broadband achromatic and polarization-insensitive metalenses
Metalenses have been developed with differentiated design principles to eliminate chromatic aberration. By merging bright spots into a single focusing spot, researchers achieved an efficiency of up to 43% and demonstrated the versatility of their approach for various optical applications.
An innovative addition to the chemist’s ‘toolbox’
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a new type of nanoclay material that can be customized to perform specific tasks. This breakthrough could lead to advances in fields such as medical science, environmental science, and more.
Ming Xu, PhD (UConn) receives AFAR 2023 Vincent Cristofalo Rising Star Award in Aging Research
Dr. Ming Xu, a rising star in aging research, receives the Vincent Cristofalo Rising Star Award for his pioneering work on cellular senescence and its role in age-related diseases. His research aims to develop novel drugs to promote healthy longevity.
Oldest known molecule surprises researchers. It could lead to new important treatments
Scientists from the University of Copenhagen found that cancer cells have different ribosomes compared to other cells, which produce specific proteins. This discovery may lead to improved treatments in regenerative medicine and potentially better treatments for cancer.