Eurekalert

The effects of the steadily increasing amount of plastic in the ocean are complex and not yet fully understood. Scientists at GEOMAR, Kiel, Germany have now shown for the first time that the uptake of microplastics by zooplankton can have significant effects on the marine ecosystem even at low concentrations. The study indicates that the resulting changes may be responsible for a loss of oxygen in the ocean beyond that caused by global warming.

Children with weakened immune systems have not shown a higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 infection despite commonly displaying symptoms, a new study suggests.

An international team of scientists, led by the University of Granada (UGR), has identified for the first time a series of 267 genes linked to creativity that differentiate Homo sapiens from Homo neanderthalensis (Neanderthals) and the chimpanzee. Their study indicates that these genes acted as a "secret weapon" that enabled Homo sapiens to avoid extinction

Teams from the Institut Pasteur, the CNRS and the Vaccine Research Institute (Inserm/University Paris-Est Créteil) demonstrated that infection induces polyfunctional antibodies. Beyond neutralization, these antibodies can activate NK cells or the complement system, leading to the destruction of infected cells. Polyfunctional antibodies were found in all individuals (symptomatic and asymptomatic). These findings show that infection induces antibodies capable of killing infected cells regardless of the severity of the disease.

Publication in Cell Stem Cell: Researchers at the Université libre de Bruxelles, ULB uncover a new mechanism involved in the development of metaplasia in the oesophagus.

Study shows that in several insect species, a pathogen defence signalling pathway independently gained a central function in the evolution of axis formation.

An artificial intelligence-driven system that automatically combs through brain MRIs for abnormalities could speed care to those who need it most, according to a new study.

Osaka University researchers produced a nickel phosphide nanoalloy catalyst (nano-Ni2P) on a hydrotalcite support for the hydrogenation of maltose to the in-demand sweetener maltitol. The catalyst is selective, highly active, air stable, effective under mild conditions and reusable. The hydrotalcite support and nano-Ni2P worked cooperatively, with the support increasing the turnover number by more than 300 times. The catalyst is expected to contribute to green and sustainable maltitol production.

Scientists identify the wettability of graphene layers and improve the understanding of graphene interface properties at molecular levels

A new Portland State study challenges the idea that youth with cognitive disabilities are unable or lack potential to pursue a career in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Protons are the next big thing when it comes to fuel cell technology. The subatomic exchange produces power on a scale that challenges contemporary solid-state fuel cell technology, used to help power space shuttles. To realize the proton-based technology sooner, an international team of researchers have developed a hybrid material that effectively transports protons at high temperatures and humidity -- two major challenges in past attempts.

A recent study examined a noninvasive method to predict which coronary artery blockages require surgical intervention (stent placement or bypass surgery) and which can be treated without surgery. The noninvasive technique uses artificial intelligence to predict coronary artery plaque composition and significance based on CT imaging, without the risks of invasive procedures.

Astronomers have discovered a pulsar--a dense and rapidly spinning neutron star sending radio waves into the cosmos--using a low-frequency radio telescope in outback Australia. The new pulsar is located more than 3,000 light-years from Earth and spins about once every second. Pulsars are used by astronomers for applications including testing the laws of physics under extreme conditions.The study of pulsars is one of the headline areas of science for the multi-billion-dollar Square Kilometre Array.

The Endangered dryas monkey is one of Africa's most mysterious primates. They are difficult to find because they live in dense vegetation in secondary forest thickets. Using non-invasive research and no-flash camera traps from 2014 to 2019, scientists have confirmed the occurrence of the dryas monkey at seven locations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo spanning a total area of 3,453 square kilometers, based on opportunistic reports provided by local village residents and park patrols.

A smartphone-based electrocardiogram or ECG screening accurately detected a previously unknown irregular heart rhythm - called atrial fibrillation - in American Indians.American Indians are at a higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation and may benefit from screening before the recommended age of 65.

Researchers at Linköping University, Sweden, have developed a stable high-conductivity polymer ink. The advance paves the way for innovative printed electronics with high energy efficiency. The results have been published in Nature Communications.

Volcanic eruptions deep in our oceans are capable of extremely powerful releases of energy, at a rate high enough to power the whole of the United States, according to research published today.

Researchers in Japan have developed a virtual reality platform that mimics the sensation of walking by stimulating their hands and feet, all while sitting motionlessly. During testing, participants using the platform experiencing a digital world through a first-person perspective found it enhanced the simulation of walking. However, those who saw themselves from a third-person perspective felt it impaired the sensation of movement.

Shift-work and irregular work schedules can cause several health-related issues and affect our defence against infection, according to new research from the University of Waterloo.

Augmented reality is an effective technology that marketers can use to improve sales.