Comparing brains to understand how neurons connect and how these connections can vary between species or individuals is one of the great areas of research in neuroscience. Now, a research team from the Department of Chemical Engineering at the Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV) has developed a probabilistic model that allows different complex networks to be aligned at the same time in order to find common patterns. This method, which has been published in the scientific journal Nature Communications, not only substantially improves on current methods, but also represents a revolutionary approach to the problem that will allow us in the near future to align networks of hundreds of thousands of neurons in an effective way, something that cannot be done at present.

Some disposable, electronic cigarettes and vape pods release higher amounts of toxic metals than older e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes, according to a UC Davis study.

A team of physicists has proposed a new method for  producing superheavy elements by using ⁴⁰Ar as the projectile in fusion reactions. This approach not only offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional methods but also enables the production of key isotopes, such as element 114. Furthermore, it provides a potential route for synthesizing the crucial isotope ²⁸⁶Mc, aiding in the identification of the new element 119.

Detecting lies and deception has always challenged scientists and authorities, but AI-based lie detection devices may have the potential to rise to the challenge.

The molecular arrangement of thalidomide in its crystalline form significantly influences its behavior at high temperatures. Comparative analysis of its different crystal forms revealed distinct differences in thermal expansion and molecular motion, driven by symmetry. These findings highlight the critical role of crystal packing in determining solid-state properties and provide a valuable framework for enhancing the stability and performance of pharmaceuticals through targeted crystal engineering strategies.