Science & Technology
Mars’ surface shaped by fast and furious floods from overflowing craters
On Earth, river erosion is usually a slow-going process. But on Mars, massive floods from overflowing crater lakes had an outsized role in shaping the Martian surface, carving deep chasms and moving vast amounts of sediment, according to a new study.
Back pain: Psychological treatment shown to yield strong, lasting pain relief, alter brain networks
A study of chronic back pain patients finds that more than two-thirds of those who underwent a novel, 4-week psychological treatment were pain-free or nearly pain-free afterward. Those in the treatment group also saw brain regions involved in pain proc…
‘Is that a bacon sandwich?’ Fruit flies react to smells while asleep
Researchers have tracked flies’ ability to interpret information while asleep, showing which parts of the brain remain ‘awake’.
Study shows fragile X treatment can incur resistance, suggests ways around it
While the brain acquires resistance to continuous treatment with mGluR5 inhibitor drugs, lasting effects may still arise if dosing occurs intermittently and during a developmental critical period, a new study finds.
AI-driven dynamic face mask adapts to exercise, pollution levels
Researchers have developed a dynamic respirator that modulates its pore size in response to changing conditions, such as exercise or air pollution levels, allowing the wearer to breathe easier when the highest levels of filtration are not required.
Great apes’ consonant and vowel-like sounds travel over distance without losing meaning
Scientists have shown that orangutan call signals believed to be closest to the precursors to human language, travel through forest over long distances without losing their meaning. This throws into question the accepted mathematical model on the evolu…
Researchers’ novel mind-body program outperforms other forms of treatment for chronic back pain
Physician-scientists developed a 12-week mind-body program that takes a new approach to chronic back pain. The team demonstrated that this intervention was highly beneficial for treating back pain when compared to standard care.