News from the institutes and societies that organize science. Covers scientific medals, university-hospital partnerships, oncology cooperatives, and society leadership.
Researchers discovered that high temperatures stimulate stem growth in plants, contrary to cooler temperatures where light inhibits it. Mathematical models and experiments validated the findings, suggesting plants may associate hot weather with drought risk and grow quickly to reproduce.
A new study reveals how tiny marine organisms that attach to ships' hulls and rocks respond to ocean acidification. The research found that certain species, such as sea squirts and sponges, increase in number, while others, like hard shell worms, decline significantly.
A joint international research project has led to a breakthrough in terahertz spectroscopy, enabling the analysis of nanocrystals and molecules at extremely low concentrations. Researchers successfully increased technique sensitivity using nanoantennas, allowing for enhanced absorption and spectroscopic signature retrieval.
Researchers have developed a set of genetic switches to control the function of genes in engineered organisms, preventing potential harm from theft or misuse. The switches use naturally occurring chemicals and can be customized for various products, including biofuels, food, and medicines.
Researchers found a link between common dietary fatty acids, CD36, and oxidized LDL uptake in cells. The discovery may contribute to the pathophysiology of diseases like obesity and type 2 diabetes.
A study found that organizational forgetting affects 16% of quality gains from autonomous learning and 13% of targeted quality improvement efforts. Firms must continually improve while also acknowledging the erosion of knowledge over time.
Researchers have developed a method to protect user anonymity and prevent fraud in Bitcoin transactions. The CoinShuffle protocol, which uses a decentralized approach similar to the Tor network, can be easily incorporated into current Bitcoin programs.
Researchers used microscopic fossils to date sedimentary layers and shed light on the origin of the Canary Islands. The study supports the mantle plume model, suggesting oceanic volcanoes formed from an anomalously hot plume of molten rock from the Earth's mantle.
Researchers from the University of Southampton have developed a new technique for generating more powerful and efficient pulsed lasers. The technique uses coherent combination of multiple semiconductor lasers, allowing for complex pulse waveforms with user flexibility.
A recent study by Concordia University researchers found that individuals who experienced prolonged social isolation had decreased heart rate variability, a marker of poor physical health. In contrast, those who formed strong social connections showed increased heart rate variability and improved overall health.
Researchers have found charge instability across all types of copper-based superconductors, which may help synthesize materials that can superconduct at room temperature. The study suggests that charge order is a universal feature of high-temperature superconductors.
A study found innocent adults can be led to believe they committed serious crimes, including assault with a weapon, over the course of a few hours. Participants developed detailed false memories after being interviewed and encouraged to recall events.
Electrons in a crystal lattice move at incredible speeds, with one type of electron traveling at 5000 km/s. By studying the delay between electrons traveling through different atomic layers, researchers gained insight into the behavior of electrons within the crystal's microcosm.
Researchers at HKUST developed a novel nanobowl optical concentrator to enhance light trapping in organic photovoltaic devices. The device achieved a 28% improvement in power conversion efficiency, outperforming control devices without the nanobowl structure.
The A.S.P.E.N. Rhoads Research Foundation is awarding nearly $130,000 to seven investigators conducting promising research in clinical nutrition and metabolism. The grants will support projects on beta-Hydroxy-Methyl-Butyrate (HMB) and novel interventions for parenteral nutrition-related pathologies.
Researchers are developing a new generation of photonic integrated circuits that use photons instead of electrons to transmit data. This technology has the potential to transform data communications and enable faster, smaller components for the growing number of Internet-connected devices.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a two-dimensional, light-sensitive material that can capture images. The material, copper indium selenide (CIS), is highly sensitive to light due to its slow-dissipating electrons, making it 10 times more efficient than previous materials.
A recent poll in Russia found that President Vladimir Putin enjoys an 81% approval rating, despite economic concerns being a top priority for the public. Two-thirds of respondents support efforts to aid Ukrainians seeking separation from the Kiev government.
A study from the University of Texas at Dallas found that family-friendly policies significantly increase productivity and are related to higher labor productivity. The study also discovered a positive relationship between unionization and increased productivity and lower turnover rates.
Two researchers at the Max Delbrück Center will use $1.9M and $1.5M ERC Starting Grants to investigate DNA repair mechanisms in B lymphocytes and direct cell reprogramming using C. elegans. The grants aim to advance understanding of immunodeficiencies, cancer predisposition, and tissue regeneration.
A recent study found that having a journalist engage with commenters can reduce incivility and increase the use of evidence in comments. The researchers partnered with a local television news station and conducted an experiment using its Facebook community, resulting in a statistically significant effect on the tone of the comments.
A collaborative project between UK researchers will focus on developing formal verification techniques for autonomous systems. The goal is to ensure robots make decisions that are safe, ethical, and follow legislation, with applications in industries such as automotive and manufacturing.
A new wireless implantable shunt technology developed by Dr. Ashish Nimgaonkar has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of patients with refractory ascites, a condition where fluid builds up in the abdomen. This technology allows patients to manage their fluid drainage needs at home, significantly improving their quality of life.
The SAGE Young Scholars Awards recognize exceptional contributions by young scholars in social-personality psychology. This year's winners, Clayton Critcher, Emily Impett, Nicholas Rule, Jenessa Shapiro, and Jay Van Bavel, will receive $5,000 awards to support their research or travel-related endeavors.
A study combining data from 12 British studies found that men are stronger than women after adolescence, but both reach peak strength in their thirties before weakening with age. The research provides reference charts for grip strength at different ages, aiding the identification of weak grip strength and potential health risks.
A new study examines how parasites impact primate culture, finding that socially transmitted pathogens increase with learning from others and environmentally transmitted pathogens with exploratory behavior. This research sheds light on the evolutionary pressures driving primate cultural development.
A study conducted by Sam Houston State University and the Houston Police Department found that no single method of eyewitness identification is more reliable than others. The experiment tested four different methods, including sequential and simultaneous presentations, and revealed surprising consistency in results.
A new study by University of Toronto atmospheric chemist Jennifer Murphy reveals that soil plays a crucial role in the production of nitrous acid, a key pollutant in air quality. The research suggests that soils can take up nitrous acid at night and release it into the atmosphere the next day through reaction with stronger acids.
A RAND Corporation review found that few health information exchanges have been evaluated, despite significant investments. The relatively few examined exchanges show some evidence of reducing emergency department costs and usage, but outcomes are unknown.
A recent study by University of Southampton researchers found that ancient marine algae, such as coccolithophores, experienced reduced growth and skeletal structure changes in response to climate warming and ocean acidification during the Paleocene Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM). The research provides a long-term perspective on the impa...
A team of researchers from the University of the Basque Country has analyzed the most suitable configurations to minimize delays in multi-hop Bluetooth networks. The study found that permanent node connections result in minimal delay, while varying delay between one hop and another.
Concordia University's Lean Aerospace Value Streams project aims to minimize waste and increase value in Canada's aerospace sector. Researchers will apply lean principles to design, manufacturing, and supply chain processes.
Kelvin Droegemeier, OU VP for Research, named 2014 AAAS Fellow for his contributions to developing partnerships in atmospheric sciences. He serves on several national and international boards, including the National Science Board.
Researchers developed a methodology to directly measure the duration and temporal intensity distribution of ultra-short X-ray flashes. They characterized these pulses using streaking spectroscopy, revealing pulse durations of up to four and a half femtoseconds.
The AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research has released a new analysis of Hispanics' experiences with long-term care in the US. Key findings include that Hispanics are more likely to foresee needing long-term care, but report feeling less prepared and concerned about costs. The study also highlights the importance of financial plan...
Researchers have found that selenium and selenoproteins are at elevated levels in large, healthy ovarian follicles, playing a critical role as an antioxidant during follicle development. This discovery could lead to better understanding of how to optimize selenium levels to improve women's chances of conceiving.
A digital sharing revolution tool, SiteFinder, facilitates research collaborations among tropical medicine researchers and their sites. The Global Health Network's platform ensures quality information and facilitates the sustainability of research capacity.
Researchers developed a wireless, light-sensitive film that can stimulate neurons and potentially treat age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The new device outperforms existing technologies in terms of durability, flexibility, and efficiency.
The EMBO Young Investigator Programme selects 27 young researchers to build their independent teams and achieve recognition. The programme provides support for laboratory management, non-scientific skills training, and access to core facilities.
Researchers at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland have demonstrated a novel method for converting mechanical vibrations into electrical energy. This technique utilizes the charging phenomenon between bodies with different work functions, generating power that can be harnessed using external circuits or semiconductors. The technol...
A Kansas State University professor is using twin studies to understand the interplay between genetic and environmental factors in employee proactivity. He found that about 40% of differences among individuals can be attributed to their distinct genetic makeup, while 60% can be attributed to environmental factors.
Research by University of Cincinnati professor Stacie Furst-Holloway reveals veterans face challenges transitioning to civilian careers, with lower perceptions of job fit and limited opportunities for advancement. The study suggests developing interim vocational training can help retain veteran employees in the VA workforce.
The Institute of Medicine and National Research Council report highlights the critical period of young adulthood, characterized by brain maturation and increasing health risks. The committee calls for improved educational, economic, social, and health supports to promote equal opportunities and reduce disparities among young adults.
A Brunel University study found that people are more likely to drop swimming if faced with higher prices, with a 29% decrease in activity. In contrast, other forms of exercise such as working out and brisk walking show minimal impact, suggesting targeted subsidies could boost participation.
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed an iPhone app called BiliCam to determine the severity of jaundice in newborns without drawing blood. The app has the potential to improve healthcare in the US and save thousands of lives in low-resource countries.
The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation honored Herbert Pardes with its inaugural Humanitarian Prize for his significant contributions to the field of mental health. The prize recognizes Dr. Pardes' tireless work in education, prevention, treatment, and advocacy, as well as his championing of empathic healthcare.
Eight new research projects will explore various techniques for detecting dementia, including microstructure-sensitive MRI and graphene-based biosensors. The projects aim to develop diagnostic tools that can identify biomarkers of dementia at the point of care.
Researchers have successfully observed atomic positions and electron distribution during the transformation of vanadium dioxide from a semiconductor to a metal. This achievement marks the first time that experiments can distinguish between atomic-lattice structure changes and electron relocation at ultrafast speeds.
A new RAND Corporation study estimates that informal caregiving for elderly people in the US comes to $522 billion a year. Replacing this care with paid options would cost $221 billion or $642 billion annually.
Researchers at Plymouth University are developing a new graphene-based diagnostic technique to detect biomarkers of dementia in bodily fluids. The technology aims to provide real-time data and conclusive test results within minutes, increasing the accuracy of dementia detection and tracking disease progression.
Researchers use advanced technology, including analytic morphomics, to distinguish between mucinous and non-mucinous cysts. This innovative approach has the potential to reduce unnecessary surgeries and surveillance for patients with pancreatic cysts.
A mathematical model, a finite state machine (FSM), calculates disease states in patients with depression. The model distinguishes between high-risk and low-risk patient groups, providing insight into the recurrence rates of depression.
A new study published in Cell reveals that our biological clocks work in tandem with the populations of bacteria residing in our intestines. The findings show that mice and humans with disrupted daily wake-sleep patterns exhibit changes in gut bacteria composition and function, increasing their risk for obesity and glucose intolerance.
Researchers at the University of Bristol used computer simulations to study how bacteria destroy antibiotics, identifying enzymes that break down carbapenems quickly and slowly. This insight will help scientists develop new antibiotics with lower resistance rates.
Research finds that moral suspicion from higher-ups' wrongdoing can spill down to people lower in an organization, damaging job prospects. The study suggests that emphasizing the individual's personal flaws or values rather than their organizational status can help reduce this effect.
A Concordia University study found that seniors over 65 are more likely to move to suburbs than urban cores. This trend is driven by factors such as access to medical services and public transit infrastructure. As a result, researchers warn that this shift may have negative implications for seniors' quality of life.
A UK team is exploring the use of thorium as a fuel source for improved nuclear designs, which could provide safer and more cost-effective power generation. The Integral Inherently Safe Light Water Reactor (I2S-LWR) aims to reduce the size and enhance safety of conventional nuclear power stations.
Despite ongoing calls for improvement, many Australians are unprepared for dying with dignity. Only 14% of the population has an Advance Directive outlining their preferred end-of-life treatment and care options.
Experts from the University of Exeter are developing a computer platform to simulate how existing and prospective new water systems will cope with issues such as land management and flooding in a virtual environment. The Nexus Game, a Serious Gaming approach, will focus on the unique interplay of infrastructure and the Nexus in the UK.
Researchers at Saarland University have developed a method to print paper-thin, electro-luminescent displays on various materials, including paper, synthetic material, leather, and wood. These displays can be printed in any desired shape and can depict self-created symbols or react to touch.