News from the institutes and societies that organize science. Covers scientific medals, university-hospital partnerships, oncology cooperatives, and society leadership.
A new study from Baylor University's Hankamer School of Business reveals that highly innovative individuals can be committed to both their organizations and professions, especially when they understand their role in the organization's success. The study suggests design policies and procedures that support creative work styles and empha...
A study found that people with a first-degree relative with epilepsy are at higher risk of being diagnosed with autism. Siblings and offspring of those with epilepsy were 63% more likely to develop autism than their peers without a family history.
Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a new-structure nonvolatile magnetic memory device that achieves sub-nanosecond operation with minimal current consumption. The device overcomes limitations of existing nonvolatile memories and is expected to enable the creation of high-performance microcontroller units for IoT applications.
A joint research group found RNA abnormalities in the sodium channel in the heart as the cause of heart arrhythmia in myotonic dystrophy. This discovery will help prevent death and develop new treatments for the disease. Abnormalities in RNA splicing lead to various conditions, including cardiac sodium channel dysfunction.
The UPSC Berzelii Centre at Umea University has been granted a five-year extension of funding as a Vinnova Competence Centre. The centre's research groups have successfully collaborated with industrial partners to translate basic research into applications in the Swedish forest industry.
The Education and Research Foundation for Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging honored Dr. H. William Strauss with the 2016 Benedict Cassen Prize for his seminal studies in cardiovascular nuclear medicine. This award recognizes his work that has greatly advanced nuclear medicine science and had a high clinical impact.
Scientists have developed a method to trap single molecules in tiny optical cavities, enabling the mixing of molecules and light. This breakthrough allows for new ways to manipulate matter's physical and chemical properties.
Computer scientists at Queen Mary University of London have developed systems to analyze human perceptual quirks and predict audience responses, enabling magicians to create new tricks. These computational models can be used in various areas of magic, including stage illusions, optical illusions, and close-up magic.
Research identifies genetic basis for social parasitism in Cape bees, where worker bees can reproduce asexually. The study reveals that multiple genes are required for this trait, including those involved in hormonal signaling and chromosomal segregation.
A team of researchers, led by Prof. Dr. Sonja Entringer, is studying the effects of maternal stress during pregnancy on newborn cell biology and cellular aging. The study aims to understand how prenatal exposure to stress affects the unborn child's development and future health.
Researchers develop Bend-Induced-Oscillatory-Shearing (BIOS) process to produce hundreds of meters of polymer opals on a roll-to-roll process, exhibiting chameleon-like color-shifting properties. The material has potential applications in smart clothing, building coatings, and banknote security.
Only 17 weight management apps have been developed by certified health organisations or universities, with no published data on their effectiveness. Researchers recommend transferring professionally-designed online materials into app form to ensure content-quality and evidence-based weight control.
A research group discovered a Great Platform in San Andrés, El Salvador, which indicates the southeastern Maya people's ability to recover and rebuild after the devastating Ilopango eruption. The platform, built with different stone types, suggests an external cultural connection and cooperative relations beyond cultural boundaries.
A UTSA professor's top-tier research shows that clearly stated company values and vivid vision statements have a profound effect on overall success. The study reveals organizations with well-coordinated employees operating under consistent, easily imagined visions outperform those without such focus.
A recent survey by The Associated Press-NORC Center found that only one-third of older Americans feel financially prepared for retirement. Many are anxious about their savings and rely heavily on Social Security, which is expected to be a significant source of income for the growing older population.
Researchers at Kobe University have developed a metal-containing compound that transforms into a solid when exposed to light and returns to its original liquid form when heated. This substance has potential applications in photolithography technology and other fields, including printed circuits and 3D printing.
Researchers found that endocannabinoids quiet neurons in the orbitofrontal cortex, leading to an over-reliance on habit. The study suggests a new therapeutic target for OCD and addictions: treating the brain's endocannabinoid system to restore goal-directed action.
Scientists at the John Innes Centre have identified a critical protein, CNGC15s, that facilitates calcium movement into plant cell nuclei. This allows plants to initiate cellular processes necessary for bacterial accommodation and nitrogen fixation.
A study by Concordia University researchers found that cues associated with alcohol can trigger behaviors leading to addiction. The study used lab rats conditioned to associate a visual cue with ethanol, showing the rats began interacting with the cue rather than waiting for the reward.
A new study from North Carolina State University finds that nonprofit executive transitions are often plagued by problems and challenges. Most executives do not leave due to voluntary retirement, but rather for reasons such as dismissals for wrongdoing or new job opportunities. The study highlights the importance of a good fit between ...
Researchers at Université de Genève have developed new tools to manipulate biology, including a novel co-factor that enables proteins to perform tasks previously thought impossible. Meanwhile, another team has created a method to visualize mRNA in live animals, providing real-time insights into cellular processes.
The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) has committed £15 million to support seven research projects across the UK. These projects aim to improve the complex formulation processes used in various industries, including toothpaste, inhalers, pharmaceuticals, and 3D printing. By developing new libraries of materials...
Researchers from Hiroshima University have developed a new re-chargeable battery that can operate at below-freezing temperatures, making it suitable for use in refrigerated factories or extreme winter environments. The eco battery has the potential to be cheaper, safer, and longer-lasting than current metal-based batteries.
Researchers from the University of Leeds have discovered a way to prevent ice crystals from forming in water as it is cooled to -35°C using glycerol. This breakthrough has important implications for improving cryoprotectants used in fertility treatments and food storage.
Astronomers at Queen's University Belfast will lead the UK's search for distant supernovae, asteroids, and comets. The LSST telescope will generate a massive scientific dataset of billions of galaxies, stars, and solar system objects, providing insights into the origin of chemical elements and the size and geometry of the Universe.
UNIST partners with Fraunhofer ICT to develop composite materials for eco-friendly vehicles. The new project center will focus on full industrial-scale trials and take UNIST to the forefront of automotive innovation.
Researchers at the University of Bristol are developing novel diagnostic tests and nanopatterned surfaces to combat resistant infections. A new rapid diagnostic test can predict effective antibiotics, reducing reliance on strongest options. Novel antimicrobial surfaces could improve biomedical devices and implant success rates.
A team of European researchers led by Aleksandra Trifunovic will explore the molecular mechanisms regulating mitochondrial gene expression in a four-year project. The goal is to elucidate the complex processes governing these genes and their association with aging diseases.
Researchers have cataloged over 20 million objects, each with its unique L-function, providing a framework for understanding the underlying relationships between mathematical entities. The project aims to accelerate progress in number theory, physics, and computer science by making these connections visible.
The 'L-functions and Modular Forms Database' (LMFDB) provides a detailed catalog of mathematical objects, mapping out connections between them. This online resource reveals deep relationships in the abstract universe, providing a guide to previously uncharted territory under current research.
Researchers have developed low-cost temperature sensors to help local authorities make targeted gritting decisions. The sensors can detect significant temperature differences across a county, enabling localized decisions about when and where to apply salt, potentially saving £100 million per year.
The new apricot variety 'Goshen Gold' has been introduced as a suitable alternative to the popular 'Patterson' cultivar. It features a semispreading habit, vigorous growth, and improved fruit characteristics such as increased sugars and better color stability.
A new study finds that walking and cycling have significant health benefits, outweighing the risks of air pollution, even in cities with high levels of pollution. The research suggests that only a small minority of workers in extremely polluted cities may be at risk due to prolonged exposure.
Researchers from the University of Leeds found that human steering in a driving simulator is influenced by visual speed signals, not just road edges. The study's findings suggest that our brains process information from across the whole visual scene to guide steering, similar to how insects choose their flight paths.
A team of researchers has successfully imaged all steps in a complex organic reaction, revealing the mechanisms behind it. The study used atomic force microscopy to visualize the bond configuration of reactants, intermediates, and products, providing new insights into the stabilization of intermediates.
A genetic variant in Labradors has been identified as a key factor in their obesity-prone nature. The POMC gene affects how the brain recognizes hunger and feelings of fullness after meals.
A new study published in Human Relations suggests that integrating work and home life can reduce the impact of role transitions and preserve job effectiveness. Flexible working arrangements and goal setting can help employees manage their time more efficiently.
Developed by University of Cambridge researchers, the nanoscale engine harnesses light energy to generate elastic forces, making it suitable for water navigation and disease-fighting applications. With immense force capabilities and bio-compatibility, these 'ANTs' could revolutionize nano-machinery and microfluidics industries.
A team of researchers at ICIQ has designed and synthesized highly selective and effective Englerin analogues that inhibit the growth of renal cancer cells. The analogues were developed using gold catalysis and exhibited potent anti-cancer activity in cell lines, offering a promising treatment option for patients with kidney cancer.
A study found that workers who had good relationships with their bosses carried that goodwill into their new jobs, leading to important benefits for their former workplaces. Good relationships with bosses can also make ex-employees valuable ambassadors and future customers.
Christof Paar, a Bochum IT security expert, has been awarded an ERC Advanced Grant to explore and prevent cryptographic hardware backdoors that pose a major threat to the Internet of Things. The project aims to develop countermeasures against hardware Trojans that can compromise device security.
Research suggests that child homicide is responsible for approximately 1% of all neonatal deaths in South Africa. The majority of these deaths occur among infants aged 0-6 days, with abandonment being the most common method of homicide.
Scientists have developed a new method to accelerate the isolation of plant disease resistance genes, using 'SMRT RenSeq' technology. This technique has been successfully used to identify a brand new source of blight resistance genes in Solanum americanum, a wild relative of the potato.
A €2.4 million project aims to make embedded software safe, customizable, and open source by developing new tools and making existing ones transparent. The project, led by Holger Hermanns at Saarland University, focuses on power management software for mobile devices like smartphones and e-bikes.
A study published in the American Journal of Human Genetics reveals that PIGG gene mutations are the cause of intellectual disability with seizures and hypotonia. The discovery offers new insights into the development of cerebral nervous systems and provides a potential diagnostic tool for families affected by these disorders.
The Rex Griswold Foundation has donated $50,000 to the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) to investigate Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), a rare nerve disorder affecting fewer than 5 in every 100,000 people. TGen's whole genome sequencing aims to uncover novel genetic associations with MSA.
A team of scientists from the UK and Bangladesh is making genetic data for the wheat blast pathogen publicly available in an effort to address the growing threat. The researchers hope that by sharing their findings, they can develop effective measures to manage the disease and ensure food security.
Researchers at McMaster University have successfully coaxed tellurazole oxides into assembling themselves into cyclic structures, a major advance in supramolecular chemistry. The discovery creates potential for useful new materials in areas such as communication technologies, gas storage, and catalysis.
McMaster University has received $3.3M in funding to address auto industry and nuclear safety challenges through two research projects, the CaNRisk program and CREATE Program in Hybrid Electric Vehicle Powertrain Design and Development.
Researchers at the University of Tokyo developed an ultrathin, ultraflexible, protective layer that enables creation of electronic skin displays. The technology allows for wearable electronic devices to be attached to the body without damaging them.
ICIQ researchers have developed a new radical route for synthesizing chiral molecules, combining enantioselective iminium ion chemistry and photoredox catalysis under mild conditions. This breakthrough could lead to more sustainable and responsible stereoselective chemistry.
A study found that despite data breaches, most people remain satisfied with companies' responses and few take their business elsewhere. However, ethnic minorities and those who experienced extreme inconvenience reported lower satisfaction rates and higher costs.
Researchers have stabilised ultra-long carbyne chains with over 6,400 carbon atoms, surpassing previous records. The new method uses double-walled carbon nanotubes to create the stable chains, which could lead to new nano-electronic applications.
The European Research Council has awarded €647 million in funding to 277 senior researchers, enabling them to pursue innovative projects with potentially significant impacts on science and society. The grants, worth up to €2.5 million each, will support research in various fields, including life sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation has awarded $3.9 million in NARSAD grants to 40 mid-career scientists from 30 institutions worldwide to support basic research, new technologies, and next-generation therapies for schizophrenia, major affective disorders, and other serious mental illnesses.
Researchers have discovered a new biochemical pathway that produces flavones in the roots of the Chinese skullcap plant, which may lead to effective cancer treatments. The discovery was made by a team led by Professor Cathie Martin and could help produce these special flavones in large quantities.
The review provides clarity on assessing functional abilities and disabilities in autistic patients, shedding light on the complexities of autism spectrum disorder. Key findings highlight the importance of understanding ability and disability in individuals of all ages, allowing for more effective diagnosis and treatment.
A UCL-led study reveals that low doses of lithium prolong the lives of fruit flies by blocking GSK-3 and activating NRF-2, a molecule important for cell defense. The benefits were seen in both male and female flies, with average lifespan increases ranging from 13% to 18%.
A new Baylor University study published in Personnel Psychology investigates why employees' unethical behaviors may be tolerated versus rejected. High job performance can offset unethical behavior, while low-performing individuals are more likely to face ostracism.
A Concordia University study found that greater informal social support was associated with lower inflammation, while formal support services were related to better self-rated health. The impact of support on the parents' inflammation levels increased with the age of the affected child.