Psychosis, characterized by disconnections from reality such as hallucinations and delusions, has been linked to dysfunctions in two specific brain systems. These systems play a crucial role in filtering attention to important internal and external information, as well as predicting or anticipating rewards. Researchers from Stanford University have conducted a study to shed light on
When observing biological samples under a microscope, one of the key challenges faced is the distortion caused by the difference in refractive indices between the lens of the objective and the sample itself. This distortion occurs due to the bending of light rays in the different mediums, leading to an inaccurate measurement of the sample’s
Recent research has revealed alarming findings regarding the absorption of cancer-causing flame retardants through the skin. Scientists from Brunel University London and the University of Birmingham conducted a study using a state-of-the-art 3D-printed skin model, shedding new light on the potential risks associated with these pervasive pollutants. The study, published in the journal Environment International,
Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have become an integral part of our daily lives, powering a wide range of devices from smartphones to electric vehicles. However, as consumer demands for higher energy density, longer cycling life, and faster-charging capability continue to grow, the need for advanced battery technology becomes increasingly apparent. One of the key components of
When scientists stumble upon unexpected patterns in their data, the first instinct is to explain them. However, when researchers at the Swiss Federal Institute for Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) discovered a recurring pattern in two electronic structures databases, named the “Rule of Four,” they found themselves at a loss for an explanation. The databases, the
The recent discovery of ‘bacterial vampirism’ by researchers from Washington State University and the University of Oregon has shed new light on how certain bacteria are drawn to human blood, leading to potentially fatal infections. These deadly bacteria are specifically attracted to the serum, the liquid part of our blood, due to the nutrients and
Microscopy has revolutionized the way we understand the intricate structures and processes that occur within living organisms. From viruses to proteins to molecules, the microscopic realm has provided invaluable insights into the world of biology. However, traditional microscopy techniques are not without their limitations. This is where the groundbreaking work of the team at the
The recent report from Copernicus Climate Change Service revealed that February 2024 marked the warmest February ever recorded globally. Surprisingly, this record-breaking warmth was accompanied by extreme cold temperatures in North America, Asia, and parts of Europe. This paradoxical situation highlights the phenomenon known as Warm Arctic-Cold Continent (WACC), where warm Arctic temperatures lead to
The world of 3D printing is on the verge of a significant transformation, thanks to the groundbreaking research conducted by scientists and engineers at the University of Nottingham. These innovators have developed a cutting-edge coating technology for plastic particles used in 3D printing, revolutionizing the functionality of these materials and unlocking a wide array of
Traditional wheeled robots have shown promise in navigating various environments, but their inability to reliably overcome steps has hindered their real-world applications. This limitation poses a significant risk of getting stuck during missions, which can ultimately lead to failure. Researchers at Kyushu Institute of Technology have recognized this challenge and have developed a solution that
The spinal cord, often seen as a simple highway for nervous signals, is actually a complex organ with genetically diverse populations of neurons. These neurons have the ability to adapt and mold to individual needs in locomotion or withdrawal from pain as an individual develops. Scientists have long been intrigued by the role of the
Pluto, the dwarf planet at the edge of our solar system, has long been a subject of fascination for astronomers. The most prominent feature on Pluto is its heart-shaped region, known as Tombaugh Regio. This bright valentine-shaped area has puzzled researchers for years, but a new study published in Nature Astronomy claims to have unveiled
The relationship between carbon dioxide levels and the increase in wildfires has been a topic of interest in recent years. While many attribute the surge in wildfires to hotter and drier conditions caused by climate change, a study conducted by UC Riverside suggests that the role of carbon dioxide in fueling plant growth may be
In a groundbreaking study, researchers from the Max Planck Institute of Chemical Energy Conversion (MPI CEC) have unveiled a new approach to sustainable chemical transformations through electro-organic synthesis. This innovative method bypasses the generation of large amounts of waste typically associated with conventional chemical processes. The team’s findings offer insight into the development of more
Researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) have made significant strides in the field of fusion research by combining two old methods – electron cyclotron current drive (ECCD) and resonant magnetic perturbations (RMP). This innovative approach provides greater flexibility in managing plasma, bringing researchers closer to their goal of using