News on research labs and their facilities. Covers lunar research sites, national-lab partnerships, obesity classification, and cloud-lab funding.
Helen Genova, a researcher at Kessler Foundation, has received the Women of Excellence Award in Health Sciences for her groundbreaking studies on cognitive fatigue in individuals with multiple sclerosis. Her innovative approach using functional MRI aims to develop more effective strategies for maintaining cognition and quality of life.
A new study by scientists from CIRES and NOAA found that gasoline vehicles produce more secondary organic aerosols (SOA) than diesel vehicles in urban environments, contributing 80% or more to SOA concentrations. This finding suggests a decrease in gasoline emissions could significantly reduce SOA concentrations on a global scale.
Japanese researchers have developed a spectrally efficient, scalable elastic optical transport network architecture called SLICE to address growing IP traffic demands. The technology enables adaptive spectrum allocation, providing significant savings of network resources and increased capacity.
The study has provided novel insights into the regulatory processes that help Bacillus subtilis cells maintain their metabolism in prime condition. It identified 512 new potential genes in the bacterium and has implications for biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and medical industries.
Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center have discovered that dorsal root ganglion neurons can create thick, healthy nerves without provoking an immune response. This breakthrough could lead to better treatment options for the over 350,000 patients with serious nerve injuries in the US each year.
New research by National Physical Laboratory produces technology for accurate measurements of Planck's constant, a fundamental constant that relates frequency to energy. The technique enables the kilogram to be redefined in terms of this constant, providing a universal standard and greater long-term certainty for scientists.
Scientists studied children with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes to understand its initial stages. They found variability in T-regulatory cell activity and increased immune-boosting cells, which may help develop new treatments.
A study published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society Nephrology found that adding information on how to treat chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients to kidney test results did not improve care. The study included 22,092 patients with CKD and found no difference in the use of recommended medications between those who receive...
Researchers found that traumatic brain injuries increased susceptibility to PTSD and anxiety disorders in rats, highlighting the need for precautions against stressful situations. The study suggests a mechanistic link between TBI and PTSD, with the amygdala playing a critical role.
The Cleveland Traumatic Neuromechanics Consortium (TNC) will investigate and develop better protection and treatment strategies for head, neck and spinal injuries. The center will combine engineering and clinical expertise from both institutions to make a significant positive difference in people's lives.
The Navy is testing an electromagnetic railgun prototype launcher, a long-range weapon that can fire projectiles at speeds of up to 5,600 mph. The technology has the potential to provide Sailors with multi-mission capability for tasks such as naval surface fire support and cruise missile defense.
MassGeneral Hospital for Children researchers found 27 new candidate genes for CDH using sophisticated data-filtering strategy. The findings may lead to development of new diagnostics and preventive treatments for the deadly birth defect.
Researchers have discovered that a gene mutation in autistic individuals leads to difficulties in processing auditory cues and paying spatial attention to sound. Treatment with rapamycin blocks hyperconnectivity triggered by PTEN gene loss.
A study by Penn State researchers found that online news portals benefit from credible sources, increasing user trust and potentially generating ad revenue. The study used a group of 231 students to test the impact of credibility on portal trustworthiness.
Scientists have engineered a highly transmissible H5N1 strain, sparking debate about its safety and appropriateness. Dr. Inglesby argues that the risks outweigh the benefits, while Dr. Pavia suggests that proper safeguards can mitigate concerns and promote critical scientific understanding.
Researchers developed a new approach to motion capture technology, identifying the 'kick' serve as a high-risk tennis serve for shoulder injury. By analyzing player movement without markers, they found that this serve generates larger forces on muscles crossing the shoulder joint, promoting injury.
The new technology, called Serial Two-Photon Tomography, allows for high-throughput fluorescence imaging of whole mouse brains, facilitating systematic comparisons between different mouse models. This enables the study of neuroanatomy in mouse models of human brain disorders such as schizophrenia and autism.
A study by Italian researchers found that people who are well-informed about health through mass media are more likely to stick to the Mediterranean diet, a healthy eating pattern. The study analyzed data from over 1,000 participants and found that those with higher exposure to mass media information reported better eating habits.
The University of California, Santa Cruz and the University of Washington have developed an open-source robotic surgery system, Raven II, which will be shared with top medical research laboratories across the US. The systems enable collaborative experiments and faster advancements in the field.
Researchers at the University of Montreal are working on a project to create the first shopping mall specifically adapted for individuals with physical handicaps. The initiative aims to improve accessibility and social inclusion for people with disabilities, with features such as intelligent wheelchairs and personalized guides.
Scientists have developed an imaging agent that binds to signs of Alzheimer's disease, including ß-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. The agent, called FPPDB, has shown promise for early diagnosis in laboratory tests.
Scientists at the University of Notre Dame have successfully engineered silkworms to produce fibers with the strength and elasticity of spider silk. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new materials for sutures, wound dressings, artificial limbs, and other textiles. The researchers used a transgenic engineering approach ...
A collaborative study by New Jersey stroke specialists has developed a bedside clinical evaluation to detect spatial neglect, a hidden disability that impedes recovery after stroke. The study found that psychometric assessments may be used to identify specific motor-exploratory deficits in spatial neglect.
Researchers found that GABA interneurons initially form many tentative connections, which are later pruned back by a mechanism triggered by GABA. This process helps refine neural networks and eliminate incompatible contacts.
A molecular 'maturation clock' has been identified that regulates the number of branches in tomato plants, leading to increased flower and fruit production. Manipulating this clock could provide agricultural benefits by slowing down branching, resulting in more fruits.
A standardized medical terminology system, LOINC (Logical Observation Identifiers Names and Codes), has been adopted internationally as a common language for medical measurements. Developed by the Regenstrief Institute, LOINC enables hospitals and healthcare providers to accurately record, transfer, and use medical data.
Researchers at the University of Bristol used musical features and machine learning algorithms to predict song hits in the UK singles chart. They found that danceability increased in popularity from the late 1970s and that slower styles, such as ballads, were more likely to become hits in the 1980s.
A comprehensive DNA study of mast cell leukemia identifies two previously unknown mutations that could improve diagnostic power and targeted therapy. The study's findings suggest a diagnostic improvement and an alternative treatment strategy for MCL, with potential implications for other cancers.
Physicists at Aalto University have developed a method to amplify feeble radio waves or microwaves with minimal disturbance, reaching the fundamental limit set by quantum physics. The discovery uses a nanomechanical oscillator and superconducting cavity resonator to detect and amplify electromagnetic signals.
Researchers developed an all-natural foliar spray that enhances plants' innate 'anti-freeze' properties, reducing cold damage and mortality by up to 1 USDA hardiness zone. The non-toxic spray is friendly to both plants and the environment.
A team of scientists at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discovered that hydrogen sulfide regulates a signaling pathway implicated in biological malfunctions. H2S modifies an enzyme called PTP1B, preventing it from inactivating PERK, a sensor of unfolded proteins and a critical regulator of cell response to ER stress.
A team of researchers performed new 3-D calculations to better understand the complex conditions driving Type Ia supernovae. The simulations provide insight into the deflagration-to-detonation transition process, which is crucial for calculating cosmic distances and understanding the evolution of the universe.
A multidisciplinary team of researchers has developed the world's lightest material, boasting a density of 0.9 mg/cc and unparalleled mechanical behavior. The novel material's unique micro-lattice cellular architecture enables complete recovery from compression exceeding 50 percent strain and extraordinary high energy absorption.
Researchers at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory have created a video simulation showcasing the complex dynamics of a plasma pulse within an experimental fusion machine, offering new insights into particle confinement and magnetic field manipulation. The simulation provides a detailed 3D picture of the plasma, allowing researcher...
Researchers activated a gene called PGC-1, which increases mitochondrial activity, and found it significantly extends the lifespan of fruit flies' digestive tracts. The study's implications for human aging suggest targeting the intestine as a vital tissue type for healthy aging.
Researchers at the University of Canterbury developed a new method to generate extra-long electrical arcs using exploding copper wires, reducing the amount of voltage needed by more than 95%. The technique has potential applications in inducing real lightning from thunderclouds and creating novel electrical machines.
University of Alberta researchers create a miniature model of oil-trapping rock layers using core samples from drilling sites. The 'reservoir on a chip' model helps energy companies determine optimal water and chemical concentrations for maximum oil recovery.
Researchers used genetically modified mice with human-like enzymes to assess the health risks of food mutagens from well-done meat and fish. The results showed a significant increase in intestinal tumors after consuming substances from meat crust, highlighting the need for better models to predict human health effects.
The Alberta Diabetes Atlas provides critical data on laboratory tests for effective diabetes management, enabling healthcare providers to make informed decisions. The atlas also helps identify disparities and improve care quality across regions and communities.
Researchers isolated 63 unique dust particles from their laboratory using a new sensor technology. The study aims to aid in understanding respiratory diseases caused by airborne particles. The dust particles contained organic matter, quartz, and man-made chemicals.
Scientists at CSHL have discovered that a 27-gene cluster deletion on chromosome 16 causes autism-like features. Mouse models revealed that inheriting fewer copies of these genes leads to behaviors and brain alterations characteristic of autism.
Researchers at NTNU's Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience discovered that memory is divided into discrete packets, with each packet lasting around 125 milliseconds. The brain switches between these packets rapidly, allowing it to 'flip' between different maps of location and experience.
Research reveals that stronger motivation leads to increased connectivity between brain regions regulating motivation and motor learning. Rehabilitative training advances motor function recovery by activating the brain's motivation centers.
Researchers at UC Riverside discovered that stacking three layers of graphene creates a 'knob' for tuning its electrical properties. The team found that some trilayer graphene devices were conducting while others were insulating, depending on the layer order.
A study by CSHL and USC researchers reveals that methylation patterns are dynamic and can influence cell fate. The team observed that subtle changes in methylation within specific regions can lead to the activation of genes associated with particular cell types, challenging traditional views on epigenetics.
ELIXIR will provide sustainable infrastructure for managing biological information in Europe, securing public access to genes, proteins, and complex networks. The initiative aims to support life science research and its translation to medicine and the environment.
The role of clinical microbiology laboratories is evolving with the increasing availability of sophisticated technologies, which can improve the quality and delivery of services. The tools and changes they bring can substantially enhance patient care by reducing mortality rates from sepsis.
Scientists have created a new class of materials that exhibit both magnetic and superconducting properties, revolutionizing the field of electronics. By sandwiching two nonmagnetic insulators together, researchers discovered a material where the interface between the two has both magnetic and superconducting regions.
The Minimum Information about a Bioactive Entity (MIABE) standard aims to capture more information about bioactive compounds, enabling better analysis and design. By adopting this standard, researchers can analyze large datasets from various drug discovery programs, leading to improved understanding of successful drugs.
USDA scientists have developed a new biorefinery yeast that can ferment plant sugars into cellulosic ethanol despite the presence of toxic compounds. The yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain NRRL Y-50049, has shown remarkable tolerance to furfural and HMF, two compounds that inhibit yeast growth and reduce ethanol yields.
Researchers have found that Parkin, a protein linked to early-onset Parkinson's disease, regulates how cells take up and process dietary fats. This discovery suggests that defective Parkin may contribute to the development of some cases by changing fat levels in the body.
Researchers discovered striking similarities in gene expression patterns between healthy aging and neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's. Aging-related changes were found in individuals as young as 50, contradicting previous expectations.
Engineered from muscle and nerve cells, the functional anal sphincters showed normal tissue function and developed a blood supply when implanted in mice. This breakthrough suggests a potential future treatment for both fecal and urinary incontinence.
A new microfluidic-based diagnostic device, mChip, can perform complex laboratory assays and diagnose infectious diseases like HIV and syphilis in remote regions with a tiny finger prick of blood. The device significantly reduces testing time and cost, providing immediate results for medical workers.
Researchers have developed a way to help growers reduce fumigant emissions by testing the permeability of dozens of films used to cover treated soil. They found that some films are better barriers to fumigant diffusion than others, but their effectiveness varies depending on the fumigant and weather conditions.
The Collaborative Cross mouse strains have been used to map causative loci for complex traits like body weight and white head-spotting, showcasing the power of ancestry-based approaches. The studies also revealed the scope of phenotypic variation present in the CC lines, providing insights into breeding effects on genetic structure.
The University of California, Davis has signed an exclusive license agreement with Barobo, Inc. to commercialize the iMobot modular robot technology. The technology enables flexible and adaptable robots that can be reconfigured for various applications.
Researchers at TGen present two key studies on the role of genes and proteins in therapeutic treatments for lung cancer. The studies suggest that combination drug therapy may be necessary to combat non-small cell lung cancer, particularly when patients have elevated levels of a protein called JAK2.
Xuemei Chen, a leading plant scientist at UC Riverside, has been awarded an HHMI-GBMF Investigator grant for her groundbreaking research on small RNA and microRNA. The grant will support high-risk projects aimed at uncovering fundamental mechanisms in biology with potential applications to agriculture and medicine.
The Pew Charitable Trusts has named 10 outstanding early-career Latin-American scientists as Pew Fellows in the Biomedical Sciences. The program provides $60,000 in salary support and additional funding to establish research laboratories in their home countries.