News from the institutes and societies that organize science. Covers scientific medals, university-hospital partnerships, oncology cooperatives, and society leadership.
Research at Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência uncovered two new mechanisms in the microbiota's evolution, driven by aging and nutrient competition. In mice, E. coli adapts to inflammation and scarce nutrients in older individuals, leading to potentially pathogenic changes.
A KAIST research team identified a retino-cortical mapping ratio as the prime determinant in the topography of cortical organization, resolving a long-standing puzzle in understanding visual neuroscience. The study found that evolutionary variation in biological parameters induces distinct functional circuits in the visual cortex acros...
Researchers find historically rare events in Indian Ocean have become more frequent and intense, with potential dire impacts on Australia's climate. The study uses coral records to reconstruct variability over the last millennium, providing new insights into how the Indian Ocean interacts with ENSO.
Researchers at Linköping University have created an organic material with superb conductivity by mixing two polymers, eliminating the need for doping. This breakthrough could lead to improved efficiency in organic solar cells and bioelectronic applications.
Scientists have developed a diagnostic technique using electron microscopy to measure the behavior of individual atoms in materials. This allows them to detect and monitor impurities at the atomic level, with potential applications in various fields such as electronics and materials science.
Researchers at Flinders University have developed a new measure for excessive buying problems, the Excessive Buying Rating Scale (EBRS), to assess severity and predict predictors of problematic buying. Strong beliefs about the benefits of buying were significant predictors, while gender and age also played a role.
Researchers found that destroying 25% of a one-hectare Atlantic rainforest fragment can raise the local temperature by 1°C. Clear-cutting the entire fragment would increase temperatures by up to 4°C, threatening the biome's carbon balance.
A study by SwRI found that US and French-furnished rooms reached flashover in 5-6 minutes, while the UK room took 22 minutes. The UK furniture had more fire-retardant protection and lower smoke toxicity.
Purdue University researchers have developed a new adhesive system that uses sacrificial bonds to make materials more resistant to stress and cracking. The technique, inspired by nature's adhesives in sea creatures, may be applied to various industries such as electronics, vehicles, and construction.
Researchers found that male-killing bacteria ensure the survival of a specific color pattern gene in female butterflies, causing them to resemble their fathers despite only having female offspring. The study reveals how this genetic manipulation affects butterfly evolution and population dynamics.
Researchers have designed a new approach to power system operation that uses multiple microgrids to provide electricity to smaller areas, reducing the risk of power outages. By conserving energy and using locally available generating reserves, these islanded systems can keep the lights on for longer periods.
A detailed molecular atlas of skin cells has been created, revealing over 50 different cell types and new variations of cell types. The study uncovers how cells are coordinated during hair growth and rest, providing vital knowledge on the flexibility of the skin.
A study by University of Alberta scientists found that sound and visual effects on slot machines make them more attractive and winning more memorable. The researchers discovered that people prefer to play on virtual slot machines with casino-related cues, regardless of the machine's risk level.
Researchers successfully reproduced key ALS symptoms in zebrafish using optogenetic TDP-43, a human protein that forms aggregates upon blue light exposure. The study reveals motor neurons may be damaged before TDP-43 aggregation, suggesting new avenues for ALS treatment.
Purdue University researchers have created a novel way of doing some medical imaging using formable and stretchable RF coils. The technology provides an excellent signal-to-noise ratio for enhanced MRI scanning, making it more comfortable and accessible for patients.
Purdue University researchers developed a novel turbomachine expander to harvest wasted energy in vapor-compression heat pump cycles. The device offers more efficient and safer cooling options for companies and vehicles.
Researchers from Ben-Gurion University and University of British Columbia show that abstract thinking can fuel aggressive tendencies in stressful situations like waiting. By priming people to think more concretely, managers can reduce the perception of wait time and manage aggression.
A study found that prenatal hypoxia may contribute to schizophrenia by altering the functioning of astrocytes and mitochondria. Researchers investigated the effects of hypoxia on rat astrocytes and observed changes in mitochondrial calcium balance, which can lead to cell death.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a mixed-signal hardware security solution that thwarts powerful electromagnetic attacks on Internet of Things devices. This breakthrough technology enhances security by 100 times compared to current solutions, making it essential for protecting resource-constrained edge devices.
Chemists at Iowa State University have developed a technique to analyze the degradation of unsaturated fatty oils in fingerprints, potentially allowing them to be used as a tool to determine their age. The method uses mass spectrometry imaging and has shown promising results, with individual differences in fingerprint aging detected.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a lanthanide-based assay coupled with a laser to detect toxins and pathogenic E. coli in various samples. The technology uses a high-powered laser pulse to obliterate a sample, collecting spectral signatures that are compared to a database for identification.
Researchers have developed a novel formulation that reduces the toxicity of crotoxin, a toxin from rattlesnake venom, and enhances its analgesic effect. In an animal model of neuropathic pain, the formulation demonstrated promising results, with longer-lasting analgesic effects compared to traditional treatments.
Scientists successfully track oscillations with a period of about 150 attoseconds, revealing the temporal decay of quantum interference. This experiment paves the way for new applications in studying atomic and molecular processes triggered by high-energy radiation.
Researchers have discovered that adding iodide salts to electrolytes can prevent hydrogen peroxide formation, leading to the stabilization of biocatalysts for fuel cells. This extends the life of catalysts, making them suitable for energy conversion processes such as solar fuel generation and electrosynthesis.
A novel simplified biotechnological route has been developed to convert sugarcane bagasse and wheat straw into fine chemicals. The new process uses a cascade of three catalytic enzymes to release ferulic acid from lignocellulosic biomass and convert it directly into coniferol, resulting in high conversion yields.
A study from Karolinska Institutet found that a combination of markers, including frailty and the epigenetic clock, can predict health risks and mortality. The researchers followed 845 middle-aged and elderly participants over 20 years, revealing associations between these markers and increased risk of early death.
The IADR Centennial Emerging Leaders Award recognizes young investigators who will lead groundbreaking research and discovery in dental, oral, and craniofacial research. The award winners are poised to advance health and well-being worldwide with their outstanding promise for service and leadership.
Researchers used high-resolution microcomputed tomography to study the anatomy of three known specimens of T. marauna, a Neotropical electric fish species. The study revealed characteristics of the fish's bones without requiring dissection, providing new insights into this rare species.
Nicholas Jakubovics, a renowned oral microbiologist, has been appointed as the new Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Dental Research. With over 20 years of experience studying dental plaque formation and extensive editorial expertise, he is poised to lead the journal to new heights.
A recent study reveals that Mediterranean sea urchin populations are more genetically isolated than previously thought, with strong selection pressure on temperature adaptation. The analysis of genetic distribution suggests a progressive adaptation from west to east, highlighting the impact of global warming and geographical barriers.
A team from JMU will investigate new antibiotics that can be used to treat specific types of bacteria, using digital methods for designing RNA antibiotics. The aim is to create a powerful digital platform for the future application of RNA-based antibiotics against various bacteria.
Research!America honors Sen. Mike Enzi and Rep. Anna Eshoo with the Edwin C. Whitehead Award for their pivotal roles in accelerating life-saving medical progress.
A new method to monitor residual disease after treatment in high-risk neuroblastoma patients has been developed using droplet digital PCR. This method enables precise monitoring of minimal residual disease and early diagnosis of tumor relapse/regrowth, leading to improved patient prognoses.
A study on co-creation in research reveals the benefits of collaborative models, including improved communication dynamics and decision-making techniques. Practical tools for managing cross-disciplinary research projects have been developed to address the challenges of complexity and diversity.
Researchers at Purdue University developed a portable device that uses bioluminescence to detect harmful E. coli in food samples. The device combines a silicon photomultiplier (SiPM) with smartphones and laptops for on-site testing, allowing for faster detection and action against foodborne illnesses.
A study reveals that pair living played a key role in the evolution of social systems in primates, serving as a stepping stone for group living. The research analyzed genetic data and behavioral observations of 362 primate species, finding that pair living was crucial for transitions among different forms of social complexity.
The first major literary work developed as an app, The Canterbury Tales features a 45-minute audio performance of the General Prologue, along with digitized original manuscripts. New research reveals previously unknown information about the tales' characters and context.
A recent study published in Nature Communications discovered that a specific Long noncoding RNA called LincIRS2 is essential for maintaining healthy metabolism. Mice lacking this gene developed metabolic complications, while those with activated LincIRS2 maintained normal blood sugar levels even in obesity.
A new study finds that mindfulness arises from the interaction between individuals and their situations, rather than being a stable psychological property. The research, which included over 558 participants, reveals three key motivational forces: metacognitive beliefs, mental fatigue, and situational appraisal.
At-home genetic ancestry tests may decrease beliefs in racial essentialism among those with higher genetic knowledge, but increase them among those with lower genetic knowledge. The study suggests that people's understanding of genetics influences the impact of ancestry testing and polarizes test-takers' views on racial essentialism.
A research project compares records from Augsburg and Aberdeen to analyze city administrations, evolution, similarities, and differences. The collaboration aims to develop new analysis techniques and share ideas on challenges and solutions.
Researchers from Brazil, the UK, and Italy developed a novel palladium compound that acts selectively and powerfully against ovarian tumor cells without affecting healthy tissues. The compound has shown twice the potency of cisplatin against resistant tumor cells.
Research shows that widespread screening for islet autoantibodies significantly reduces the occurrence of life-threatening DKA among children with pre-symptomatic T1D. The study screened 90,632 children in Bavaria, Germany and found a lower prevalence of DKA compared to unscreened children.
A RAND Corporation analysis suggests that Medicare overpays surgeons for postoperative care, with only a small share of the care provided. Adjusting payments could reduce reimbursements by 28% and result in increased payments to primary care providers.
A novel principle of organisation has been discovered in the spinal cord, which coordinates locomotion by forming three recurrent rhythm-generating circuit modules acting as gears. This discovery provides new insights into how brain commands are translated into rhythmic and appropriately paced locomotion.
Brazilian scientists led by Rodrigo Ramos Catharino found that Zika virus inhibits tumor cell proliferation in prostate cancer cells, even when inactivated. The study, supported by FAPESP, used a human prostate adenocarcinoma cell line and identified markers of metabolic changes caused by the virus.
Researchers at TUM functionalized a simple rod-like building block with hydroxamic acids to form molecular networks displaying complexity and beauty. The networks exhibit exceptional properties and chiral symmetry, with unique opportunities for bottom-up nano-templating.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have developed potassium-ion batteries with comparable performance to lithium-ion batteries, using abundant and non-toxic materials. The development of potassium-ion batteries could pave the way for more sustainable energy resources.
A study by University of Copenhagen researchers reveals that tardigrades are vulnerable to long-term high temperature exposures, with median lethal temperatures ranging from 37.1°C for active animals and 82.7°C for desiccated specimens. This finding highlights the Achilles heel of these super-resistant animals.
A new study identifies 13 non-native species most likely to invade Antarctica's Antarctic Peninsula region over the next decade. The invasion could have devastating effects on fragile polar biological communities and ecosystems. Comprehensive biosecurity checks are crucial to prevent invasive species from reaching Antarctica.
The European Research Council has awarded 76 researchers with €150,000 Proof of Concept grants to explore the commercial potential of their frontier research. This funding will support projects in various fields, including medicine and education.
A research group at FAU is investigating the causes and consequences of manufacturing deviations, focusing on gear wheels and other complex machines. The project aims to develop methods and tools for reliable tolerance management, improving product function and lifespan.
Researchers identified a new disease called CRIA syndrome, an auto-inflammatory disease caused by mutations in the RIPK1 gene. The condition is characterized by persistent fever and swollen lymph nodes from childhood to old age, leading to lifelong pain and disability.
Professor Georg Woltersdorf has been appointed as a Max Planck Fellow to investigate dynamic phenomena in novel electronic materials using optical methods. The research aims to develop ultrafast logic devices and information storage, leveraging expertise from the Max Planck Institute for Microstructure Physics.
Researchers from the University of Jyväskylæ have discovered that moving domain walls in superconducting devices generate voltage, causing losses. This finding has significant implications for magnetic racetrack memory applications, which require low current resistance.
A new tool called Contingent Organization-Public Relationships (COPR) measures an organization's relationship with its public stakeholders, accounting for the dynamic nature of relationships. The COPR framework assesses relationships based on stance and public discourse, categorizing them into six well-defined categories.
Researchers at the University of Konstanz have successfully controlled ultrafast motion of electrons in a metallic nanocircuit using light manipulation. The new method could speed up electronic switching in devices, enabling faster processing and higher performance.
Researchers at Princeton University have discovered new rules for how objects absorb and emit light, resolving a decades-old discrepancy between large and small scales. This breakthrough enables scientists to optimize designs mathematically for future applications in technologies like solar panels and quantum computers.
A study found that recreational cannabis stores in Colorado and Washington showed high compliance with ID rules, refusing buyers in 73.6% of visits at the entrance. The results suggest room for improvement in some states, particularly in how store personnel check IDs at entry.
Researchers identified secondary and tertiary fission clusters in young asteroid families formed by collision. The discovery challenges the long-held view that fission clusters and collisional families are distinct.