Science & Technology

MIT researchers have found that one key role of the neuromodulator noradrenaline, produced by the locus coeruleus, is to help the brain learn from surprising outcomes.

Researchers discover how leukemia-associated gene mutations steadily commandeer blood cell production over a lifetime, and how these changes relate to aging and cancer development.

A new study has found that plant species are adapted to the altitude where they grow by ‘sensing’ the oxygen levels that surround them.

Researchers have discovered how genetic mutations accumulated slowly over a lifetime lead to dramatic changes in how blood is formed after the age of 70, providing a new theory for aging.

A remarkable discovery and collaborative effort have revealed a new type of triterpenes, a group of organic compounds which are an important source of many medicines. Until now, all triterpenes were believed to be derived from squalene, itself a type o…

Scientists have utilized an objective and simple nutritional indicator called the Nutrition Risk Index (NRI) to unveil a long-suspected yet unverified relationship between sarcopenia and malnutrition in end-stage kidney disease patients. Their findings…

Researchers analyzed the blood of Hikikomori patients and found key biomarkers for the condition included higher ornithine and long-chain acylcarnitine levels and lower levels of bilirubin and arginine. Further analysis was able to distinguish between …

Researchers have successfully developed a biomarker that will enable Parkinson’s disease to be rapidly and inexpensively diagnosed from blood serum samples. Being able to diagnose the disease faster will hopefully lead to the development of new treatme…

New research demonstrates that by killing essential gut bacteria, antibiotics ravage athletes’ motivation and endurance. The mouse study suggests the microbiome is a big factor separating athletes from ‘couch potatoes’.

Protected and rare bats regularly die at wind turbines (WT). This is why the operation of new wind turbines is temporarily curtailed during periods of high bat activity. Old wind turbines run without curtailment, however. A scientific team has now prod…

The study reports a novel neuron type in the hippocampus, defines its functional role in the brain, discloses its connectivity with other nerve cells and brain areas and progresses the understanding of brain circuits underlying fast brain waves that ar…

While there is some evidence that consuming omega-3 fatty acids in food or dietary supplements may reduce the risk of high blood pressure, the optimal amount to consume for this benefit is unclear. A review of dozens of studies suggests that the optima…

A research team has developed a system where cameras could spot pest birds in vineyards or orchards and launch drones to drive off the avian irritants, then return to watch for the next invading flock. All without a human nearby.

Scientists have described how microscopic crystals grow and change shape in molten metals as they cool, in research that is breaking new ground in alloy research and paves the way for improving the tensile strength of alloys used in casting and welding.

Researchers have discovered how subtle structural changes in strontium titanate, a metal oxide semiconductor, can alter the material’s electrical resistance and affect its superconducting properties. The research can help guide future experiments and m…

As oranges are peeled, they spray a tangy, citrus scented oil into the air. The main compound in the fragrant mist is limonene, which can be collected from discarded peels and used in flavorings, perfumes and all-purpose cleaners. Now, researchers have…

Researchers demonstrate that under low fluid shear force conditions that simulate those found in microgravity culture during spaceflight, the foodborne pathogen Salmonella infects 3-D models of human intestinal tissue at much higher levels, and induces…