Naturally occurring molecule shown to restore memory function in Alzheimer’s models

An electrophysiology set-up used for studying memory-related electrical signals over long periods of time. 

Singapore has one of the highest life expectancies in the world, yet many individuals spend almost a decade in poor health toward the end of life. Scientists from the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS Medicine) are working to understand how aging itself can be modified to prevent age-related diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease.

A new study led by Professor Brian K Kennedy, Department of Biochemistry, Chair of the Healthy Longevity Translational Research Program (TRP), NUS Medicine, has discovered that calcium alpha-ketoglutarate (CaAKG), a safe, naturally occurring metabolite commonly studied for healthy aging, can restore key memory...

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New ultrathin ferroelectric capacitors show promise for compact memory devices

Ultrathin ferroelectric capacitors for next-generation memory devices
Credit: Institute of Science Tokyo

An ultrathin ferroelectric capacitor, designed by researchers from Japan, demonstrates strong electric polarization despite being just 30 nm thick including top and bottom electrodes—making it suitable for high-density electronics. Using a scandium-doped aluminum nitride film as the ferroelectric layer, the team achieved high remanent polarization even at reduced thicknesses. This breakthrough demonstrates good compatibility with semiconductor devices combining logic circuits and memory, paving the way for compact and efficient on-chip memory for future technologies.

Modern electronic technology is rapidly advancing towards miniaturization, creating devices that are increasingly compact yet high-performing...

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Scientists may have found the best place for humans to land on Mars

Hidden ice beneath Mars’ surface may mark the spot where humanity first sets foot on the Red Planet. A newly identified region on Mars may hold the key to future human landings. Researchers found evidence of water ice less than a meter beneath the surface, close enough to be harvested for water, oxygen, and fuel. The location strikes a rare balance between sunlight and cold, helping preserve the ice. It could also offer clues about whether Mars once supported life.

Before humans can make the long trip to another world, scientists must identify a safe and practical place to land. New research led by a University of Mississippi scientist suggests one region on Mars may meet many of the requirements for future human missions.

Erica Luzzi, a planetary geologist and postdoctoral re...

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Sleep variability linked with sleep apnea and hypertension

Over 70 million Americans wear digital activity trackers (DATs) to record their sleep, steps and heart rate. A new study from Scripps Research found that these devices could also provide insight into even more, including individual health risks like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and high blood pressure.

The findings, published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research on December 3, 2025, used DATs to identify an association between sleep variability—the night-to-night fluctuation of when an individual falls asleep and wakes—and their risk of developing sleep apnea and hypertension. This research joins a growing body of evidence that DATs could become more useful clinical tools to assess health risks in the near future.

“Data from digital activity trackers provides a uniqu...

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