News on the grants and awards that fuel scientific work. Covers federal grants, foundation awards, gene-editing and disease programs, and shifts in funding policy.
A new protocol called Privacy Pools enhances privacy on blockchain transactions while complying with regulatory standards. It enables users to prove specific attributes without revealing their entire history, maintaining both privacy and transparency.
A team from the University of Leicester will rapidly analyze gamma-ray bursts using satellite and ground-based telescopes. They aim to probe the physical forces behind these events, which can signal massive star deaths or neutron star/black hole mergers.
A 12-year study published in JAMA found that bariatric surgery significantly improved blood glucose control and type 2 diabetes remission compared to medical management alone. Participants who underwent bariatric surgery experienced greater weight loss, reduced medication use, and higher rates of diabetes remission.
Scientists have developed a new technique called electron ptychography that boosts the resolution of electron microscopes using computation, allowing for record-breaking resolution without expensive aberration correctors. This breakthrough enables state-of-the-art resolution at a fraction of the cost, making microscopy more accessible.
Researchers developed a novel concept to control chemical reactions during catalytic processes by employing light. They proposed an innovative nanosystem that enables rapid and efficient catalyst deactivation without additional chemicals, facilitating controlled reaction rates.
Researchers at Aston University will explore gel electrolyte materials to improve lithium-ion batteries' safety and environmental sustainability. The project aims to replace harmful components with renewable ionogels, addressing the need for scalable methods of storing electrical energy.
Researchers developed a new recombinant flu vaccine called Hexaplex, which provided superior protection against H1N1 and H3N2 viruses in animal models. The vaccine's combination of six proteins from different groups resulted in strong antibody production and T-cell activation, offering broader immunity.
The REHAB-HFpEF study, led by Dalane Kitzman, aims to reduce rehospitalizations and mortality in older patients with HFpEF. A novel physical rehabilitation intervention is being tested at Advocate Christ Medical Center in Chicago.
A groundbreaking research breakthrough has led to the development of the world's most efficient quantum dot (QD) solar cell, retaining its efficiency even after long-term storage. The newly-developed organic PQD solar cells exhibit both high efficiency and stability simultaneously.
A new study from the Stowers Institute for Medical Research has discovered that sea lampreys and humans share an remarkably similar molecular and genetic toolkit in their hindbrain development. The research found a crucial molecular cue, retinoic acid, to be involved in both species' brain stem formation.
Researchers at UT Health Science Center, in collaboration with Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, will develop new radiopharmaceutical therapies to treat cancer. The team aims to advance precision cancer treatment using targeted alpha-emitting radioisotope constructs.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a coating that bolsters the safety of fresh produce and provides enhanced protection against bacteria and fungi. The coating combines wax with nano-encapsulated cinnamon-bark essential oil in protein carriers to enhance antibacterial properties.
The Heidelberg Laureate Forum Foundation offers limited international journalist travel grants to report on the event. Journalists can apply until April 28, 2024, and will cover travel and visa costs, as well as room and board during their stay in Heidelberg.
Researchers at WVU have developed a microwave technology that can significantly reduce industry's energy consumption and carbon emissions. The technology, which uses microwaves to carry out chemical reactions, has the potential to produce ethylene and ammonia in a single reactor, leading to increased efficiency and lower emissions.
A large national study of over 6,000 patients found that video visits, texting and mailing pills were effective and safe for medication abortion. The research supports the safety and efficacy of telemedicine abortion, which has become increasingly important due to clinic closures and wait times.
A study by Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that crisis response planning can rapidly reduce suicidal thoughts among U.S. military members and veterans receiving massed cognitive processing therapy for PTSD. The intervention was tested in a randomized controlled trial involving 157 participants, with promising results.
A comprehensive study will examine how young caregivers balance educational responsibilities with care for older relatives, influencing academic performance and decision-making. The InterCare project aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by this often-overlooked group, including feelings of shame and guilt.
Researchers have discovered an estimated 348,000 square kilometers of shallow coral reefs worldwide, revising previous estimates. The high-resolution satellite maps also identify areas with hard and soft bottoms, providing valuable data for scientists and policymakers to better understand and manage reef systems.
Researchers identified blood proteomic markers associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with cirrhosis. The study found a set of biomarkers, including TGF-β driven mechanistic biomarkers and Myostatin and Pyruvate Kinase M2, which may stratify risk for HCC.
Researchers at Cornell University have developed nanofiber-coated cotton bandages that exhibit excellent antibacterial performance against gram-negative and gram-positive bacterial species. The bandages, infused with lawsone, a red-orange compound found in henna leaves, also show antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Regular nature visits are more beneficial to well-being of lower-income people than richer individuals, according to a University of Vienna study. People on low incomes at high risk of mental health problems can benefit from time spent in nature, which reduces stress and improves overall health.
A recent study introduces a MEMS accelerometer with advanced self-centering and stiffness control mechanisms, improving both precision and temperature stability. This innovation enables more reliable and accurate applications in critical areas like space exploration and environmental monitoring.
A new universal figure-of-merit for thermophotovoltaic (TPV) devices has been introduced to assess performance and balance power density and efficiency. This metric enables the classification of previously reported experimental results, providing a clear picture of TPV device overall performance.
Researchers develop epigenetic clocks based on regional disorder of DNA methylation patterns, identifying common responses and critical differences from canonical clocks. These findings suggest a fundamental decoupling of epigenetic aging processes.
Christi Bergin's research focuses on improving prosocial behavior in classrooms and communities, leading to better student engagement, academic achievement, and relationships. Her approach aims to reduce teacher stress and burnout by promoting empathy and kindness among students.
Researchers at Cornell University analyzed plant spore dispersion using high-speed cameras and predicted the trajectory of spores carried by swirling motion created by vibrating leaves. The study aims to design a strategy to reduce pathogens from spreading from leaves.
Researchers in Italy cultivate four species of microgreens with bespoke nutritional profiles, providing a blueprint for soilless cultivation of nutritionally enriched plants. The study successfully produces microgreens with up to 14 times higher iodine content and 45% reduced potassium levels, catering to specific dietary requirements.
The employment-to-population ratio for people with disabilities reached a record high of 37.1% in 2023, surpassing the pre-pandemic level and that of people without disabilities. This growth is attributed to significant employer trends, including labor shortages and increased wages, as well as accommodations made during the pandemic.
Patricia Saputo donates $5 million to University of Ottawa's Telfer School of Management for a new endowed chair in family enterprise, aiming to develop best practices and empower next-generation families. The gift will support long-term research projects and training programs to navigate generational transitions and market changes.
Researchers develop technology that alleviates retinal pathologies by targeting mitochondrial chaperone TRAP1, which is implicated in the breakdown of blood-retinal barrier and pathological neovascularization. This treatment approach holds great promise for revolutionizing the treatment landscape for ischemic retinopathy.
Researchers identify successful treatment of granulomas in the skin with mTOR inhibitor sirolimus, which showed partial complete remission of symptoms in 7 out of 10 patients. The study suggests targeting both immune and non-immune cells in granulomas may prevent recurrence.
A groundbreaking study identifies FAM3C as a key regulator of breast cancer progression within the tumor microenvironment. The overexpression of FAM3C promotes breast cancer cell survival and metastasis, while its depletion inhibits tumor growth in genetically engineered mouse models.
Researchers at TU Dresden aim to develop a new device for characterizing and analyzing novel porous materials with high selectivity for liquid phase separation. The ERC Proof of Concept Grant seeks to explore the commercial potential of these materials for industries dealing with water treatment, pharmacology, and petrochemicals.
Researchers aim to improve glioma treatment with direct light therapy that targets cancer cells without harming healthy ones. The project will investigate the efficacy and safety of this approach, potentially leading to improved treatment outcomes.
The Lehigh University Plasma Control Group is working on advanced controls and machine learning to improve plasma dynamics simulation capabilities and stabilize superheated gases in future reactors. The goal is to address technological issues with ITER and FPP, ensuring safe and controllable operation.
A West Virginia University study found that teens' personality traits and social media platform use are linked to depressive symptoms. Teens with higher levels of extraversion tend to experience fewer depressive symptoms on Instagram, while those with lower extraversion may be at risk for more severe symptoms.
Researchers have produced the most sensitive radio image ever of a globular cluster, capturing detailed information about tightly-packed stars. The imaging technique allowed for unprecedented views of the cluster's central compact radio source and surrounding stellar environment.
A new study will compare the effects of a single bout of cycling alone to two different cycling experiences enhanced with VR technology. The goal is to uncover the relationship between sensory demand and acute improvements in processing speed, informing future research on exercise training for long-term benefits.
Researchers develop revised scoring system for National Health Service Clinical Impact Awards to address accessibility concerns and improve distinction between levels of excellence. The new system offers a wider range of scores from 0-10, with clear descriptions, and retains pro rating of award values for part-time consultants.
The project aims to address the need for advanced testing methods in software-centric 5G architectures by considering communication and computing dimensions. The researchers will conduct extensive testing on their innovative framework, ETHOS, and implement novel machine learning algorithms for 5G RANs.
A special Journal of Intensive Medicine issue explores the latest research findings on ICU infections, prevention strategies, and innovative approaches to sepsis management. The studies shed light on key challenges and advancements in critical care, highlighting the need for personalized treatment methods.
Focused ion beam technology has numerous applications in material processing, microelectronics, and life sciences. The instrument uses a finely focused ion beam for nanoscale analysis, prototype creation, and material modification.
A new study published in Nature Communications found that AI-driven eye exams can close care gaps among racial and ethnic minority youth with diabetes, populations with historically higher rates of diabetic retinopathy. The technology uses cameras to take pictures of the back of the eye without dilation and provides immediate results.
A nationwide cohort study found that COVID-19 survivors exhibit lower all-cause mortality and congestive heart failure but higher acute myocarditis and deep vein thrombosis risks. Younger, non-vaccinated patients with preexisting cardiovascular risk factors face elevated cardiovascular complications.
The UK is launching four new PhD training centers to boost expertise in environmental science, focusing on flood management, freshwater quality, sustainable mineral resources, and wetland conservation. These centers will support the next generation of researchers who will go on to build careers in research, business, and public service.
The report highlights key applications and pathways to commercialization for emerging PV technologies, including new materials and device concepts. It also discusses strategies to exceed current limits in solar PV energy conversion and challenges facing efforts to scale up globally.
The project will assess how xanthophyll carotenoids in NutraMaize Orange Corn mitigate negative health effects associated with heat-induced oxidative stress. The researchers aim to improve egg-laying hen health and performance during heat stress events.
The Kessler Foundation has received two significant grants from NIDILRR to fund research initiatives focused on enhancing employment opportunities for adults on the autism spectrum. A strength-based tool will be developed to help individuals identify and confidently express their strengths, improving job interview skills and employment...
A £2.6 million center, led by the University of Leicester, will provide doctoral-level training in mineral resources to tackle challenges of sustainable energy generation and use. The Training and Research Group for Energy Transition Mineral Resources (TARGET) aims to develop secure and sustainable supply of critical mineral resources.
A new study will analyze electronic health records to identify facilitators and barriers of successful pediatric-to-adult HIV care transitions among youth in South Carolina. The research aims to develop guidance to improve systems and protocols for vulnerable populations.
Researchers have discovered that whirligig beetles use a lift-based thrust mechanism to achieve record-breaking speeds, challenging previous explanations of their propulsion system. This finding offers valuable insights for bio-inspired robotic ship design and uncrewed boat development.
Cancer stem cell-derived exosomes (CSC-Exos) are essential for communication between CSCs and other cells in the tumor microenvironment, contributing to cancer progression. The editorial highlights their potential as a novel clinical tool for diagnosis, prognosis, prevention of tumor recurrence, and therapeutic strategy
Researchers at Binghamton University have used environmental transmission electron microscopy to study the atomic-level mechanisms of water vapor-induced surface passivation. They discovered a second amorphous layer that diffuses oxygen into the substrate, indicating a transport mechanism that slows down corrosion.
The MU Extension program has proven results, showing improvements in physical energy, self-confidence, and muscle strength among participants. The program also reduces the risk of falling and provides social enjoyment for participants, who often form close relationships with instructors and each other.
Researchers at UNIST have achieved a significant breakthrough in organic semiconductor synthesis by synthesizing a novel molecule called BNBN anthracene. This derivative exhibits unique properties, including precise modulation of electronic properties without structural changes.
A new method for desalinating seawater using hydrate-based desalination technology has been developed, offering a low-energy solution for producing freshwater. The research team calculated optimal temperatures for enhanced efficiency, with maximum water yields reaching up to 67% in certain brine concentrations.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine has identified teneurin-3 as a key protein for stabilizing the body's circadian rhythms. The protein helps wire the brain during neural development to allow for stable responses to light changes, reducing the impact of disruptions on sleep and other cycles.
A study by Mass General Brigham found that daily learning tests can detect Alzheimer's disease-related changes in memory among cognitively normal older adults. The test, called BRANCH, was completed over seven days on a smartphone, revealing diminished learning curves associated with elevated amyloid levels.
Researchers developed a new lightweight foam material that can dissipate an enormous amount of rotational kinetic energy from an impact, potentially preventing traumatic brain injuries. The material is 30 times better at absorbing shear strain than current foams used in military combat helmet liners.
A new study reveals that human tears contain chemicals that reduce aggression in others, similar to the tears of mice and blind mole rats. Sniffing women's emotional tears lowered brain activity related to aggression in men, reducing aggressive behavior in a two-person game.