Scientists have created ultra-small and highly sensitive gas sensors made of molybdenum disulfide, which can selectively detect ethanol, acetonitrile, toluene, chloroform and methanol vapors. The sensors are ideal for various applications due to their small size, high selectivity and sensitivity.
A pioneering study analyzing 57,000 fish censuses reveals that sardines and other pelagic fish are highly vulnerable to changes in ocean temperature, driving them to migrate north. The research warns of significant socio-economic and ecological repercussions for coastal towns dependent on these fishery resources.
Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have created cheap solar cells from shrimp shells, using chitin and chitosan. The efficiency is currently low, but improving it could make them suitable for wearable chargers and other devices.
A report suggests global warming will increase ocean upwelling in several systems, enhancing marine productivity and fisheries. However, a thicker, warmer top layer may reduce upwelling's ability to energize coastal ecosystems, posing a significant threat to global fisheries and marine biodiversity.
Researchers developed targeted biodegradable nano-drones that deliver an anti-inflammatory drug to fat deposits in arteries, successfully restructuring atherosclerotic plaques to make them more stable. The treatment reduced reactive oxygen species, increased collagen, and decreased plaque necrotic core.
Researchers found the varicella zoster virus in 74% of giant cell arteritis biopsies, suggesting a link between the chicken pox virus and the condition. The study suggests treating giant cell arteritis with a combination of steroids and anti-viral treatment may be effective
Climate change is expected to alter the timing, duration, and intensity of coastal upwelling, a process that drives nutrient availability and supports fisheries. This shift may lead to reduced latitudinal variation in coastal upwelling, influencing global marine biodiversity.
Researchers discover that luna moths use tail-spinning to fool bat sonar, increasing survival rate by 47%. The findings expand knowledge of anti-predator strategies and have implications for military sonar development.
Researchers have generated and analyzed reference epigenome maps for 111 human cell types, revealing the complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors in shaping our genome. This breakthrough has significant implications for understanding and treating diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's.
A study found that watching a video explaining CPR and intubation procedures improved patient understanding, with 72% opting against intubation and 64% refusing CPR. Videos helped patients express their choices to doctors, promoting patient-centered care.
Aalto University researchers have successfully created a cost-effective and efficient electrocatalyst made of iron and carbon, replacing traditional platinum-based systems. The new material reduces losses and makes the process economically viable, addressing challenges in energy storage.
A proactive labor induction practice from 37 weeks gestation improved perinatal outcomes in Denmark, reducing neonatal deaths and asphyxia risk by almost half. The study found decreases in macrosomia and peripheral nerve injury but an increase in shoulder dystocia.
The UK government is set to introduce standardized packaging for tobacco products, building on evidence from Australia and other countries that suggests it can reduce smoking rates. Studies have shown that plain packaging may decrease the appeal of cigarette brands and increase awareness of health warnings, saving lives.
HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) has initiated two phase 2 studies to evaluate the safety and acceptability of long-acting injectable antiretroviral drugs, a promising advancement in HIV prevention. The studies aim to provide an alternative to daily oral PrEP pills, which have shown limitations in some trials.
Researchers have created an 11-point checklist to help smaller UK ports ensure sustainable operations. The system covers topics such as environmental practice, proactive partnerships, and strategic planning for the future.
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University are deploying tiny wireless computing devices to monitor sea level rise, water quality, and hurricanes. These devices can collect information about the surrounding environment and transmit it to cloud-based computing systems for analysis.
Scientists are struggling to weigh e-cigarette promises and threats as sales boom, with preliminary studies showing lower nicotine levels in users compared to smokers. Ongoing studies aim to flesh out potential health issues, including respiratory disease linked to flavorings.
A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital researchers uses epigenomic maps to predict a cancer's cell type of origin, providing new insights into early cancer events. This discovery could help guide treatment decisions for patients with unknown primary sites, which pose significant challenges.
Scientists have developed a new method to analyze hair samples at crime scenes, using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) to detect minute amounts of illicit drugs and explosives. This technique can quickly confirm whether hair is dyed and what brand of colorant was used.
A team of scientists successfully observed the birth of molecular bonds using femtosecond X-ray scattering. The technique allows for direct visualization of chemical reactions, enabling researchers to better understand light energy conversion and develop new renewable energy resources.
The HVTN 100 trial aims to build on the RV144 results by testing a modified vaccine regimen with greater protection for southern Africa's predominant HIV subtype. The trial will enroll 252 HIV-uninfected adults and monitor safety and immune responses.
Researchers at UC Davis have developed a method to measure the conformation of single molecule 'wiring', resolving a gap between theoretical predictions and experiments. This technique provides important information for theoretical modeling, enabling better design and prediction of molecule-scale circuits.
Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology studied the real-time deformation of carbon nanocoils under axial loading, revealing their elastic boundary and average spring constant. The study's findings may pave the way for developing CNC-based applications in the future.
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center developed nanoparticles that deliver a special type of healing molecule to fat deposits in arteries, slowly releasing the drug and repairing damage. The approach avoids common side effects and may prevent heart attacks by targeting inflammation hotspots.
Research published by the American Psychological Association found that unemployment can lead to changes in personality traits such as conscientiousness and openness. The study suggests that policies to reduce unemployment are vital for enabling positive personality growth in individuals.
Scientists develop shorter-growing-season lentil varieties to accommodate between two rice growing seasons. The approach has already proven its potential in Bangladesh, increasing annual income by $26.6 million and improving small-scale farmers' livelihoods.
In a study published in PLOS ONE, researchers found that ants in white plaster nests filled specific corner areas with feces of the same color as their fed food, indicating potential 'toilets'. The ants also preferentially placed these toilets in corners, highlighting a unique aspect of ant sanitation.
A new molecule called eCD4-Ig has shown promise in controlling HIV without daily antiretroviral drugs. The molecule, developed by NIH-funded scientists, safely protected monkeys from infection with an HIV-like virus during a 40-week study period.
A new treatment shows promise in reducing muscle cramp intensity by three times, taking effect within minutes and lasting up to six hours.
Researchers have detected a mysterious high plume on Mars, extending horizontally about 500 km and reaching an exceptional altitude of 200-250 km above the planet's surface. The team used images from amateur astronomers and spacecraft to analyze the phenomenon, exploring possible scenarios such as cloud or auroral emission.
Researchers have identified over 30 genes with a strong impact on Immunoglobulin E, allergies, and asthma. These genes offer potential novel drug targets for treating these conditions, which affect 30% of the population.
Researchers tracked over 2,500 Newark children to chart the progression of localized aggressive periodontitis, a genetic disease affecting 2% of African-American adolescents. The study aims to pinpoint biological markers in saliva that can predict bone loss and identify affected teeth.
Researchers at Concordia University have grown mutant E. coli bacteria up to 3/4 millimeter long, 750 times their normal length, by blocking cell division. This breakthrough has potential applications in the nanoscale industry and may lead to a better understanding of pathogens.
A new HPV vaccine, Gardasil 9, has been developed to protect against nine types of the virus, significantly improving protection against cervical cancer compared to the current vaccine. The new vaccine offers up to 97% effectiveness in preventing high-grade cervical and vaginal disease caused by high-risk HPV types.
The article highlights the weaknesses of the 2007 International Health Regulations (IHR) Treaty in responding to public health threats. Despite SARS strengthening the IHR, only 20% of countries met their obligations, leading to criticism of the treaty's effectiveness.
Researchers at CU School of Medicine have identified Muc5ac, a protein involved in airway hyperreactivity, as a potential target for reducing obstruction in asthma. The study found that genetic removal of Muc5ac eliminated airway hyperreactivity, offering new hope for treating this chronic respiratory disease.
A new study published in The Lancet emphasizes the need for improved healthcare systems to combat the growing obesity crisis. The study suggests that current clinical delivery systems are poorly suited for preventing and managing obesity, and that health professionals lack the training and tools needed to treat this condition. The auth...
Researchers create first three-dimensional tissue system that reproduces human bone marrow and generates functional human platelets. The system provides a laboratory model for studying blood disorders and predicting drug efficacy, with potential applications in regenerative medicine and patient-specific treatments.
The Lancet's Obesity Series reveals that global progress towards tackling obesity has been 'unacceptably slow', with only one in four countries implementing policies on healthy eating. The series calls for a radical shift in approach, including smart food policies and increased accountability to governments and industries.
Researchers have mapped the epigenomes of over 100 human cells and tissues, offering new insights into how genes are turned on and off in different cellular contexts. The comprehensive data set provides a powerful tool for studying human biology and understanding the links between the genome and disease.
Researchers developed a new model describing atomic nuclei that better predict exotic isotope properties. This improvement enables simulations of supernova explosions and nuclear reactor processes.
Two studies found that morphine equivalent doses of opioids over 100mg/day increase drug overdose risk, while antidepressant use can mitigate this risk. A third study revealed a 'catch-22' where patients without depression are more likely to overdose when taking opioids with sedatives.
A clinical trial comparing Eylea (aflibercept), Avastin (bevacizumab), and Lucentis (ranibizumab) for diabetic macular edema found that Eylea provided greater visual improvement, especially in patients with moderate vision loss. The study enrolled 660 participants and showed similar results when starting vision was mild.
Lemurs are expected to lose considerable amounts of suitable habitat due to climate change, with some species shrinking their ranges by nearly 70 percent. The study identifies key forest corridors that need protection for lemurs to reach future habitats.
Researchers discovered that C. difficile bacteria can wreak havoc on the gut within 24 hours of exposure, causing severe diarrhea and life-threatening disease. The study found that bile acids 'wake up' dormant spores, allowing them to grow into toxin-producing cells in the large intestine.
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) is expanding its Tuberculosis Research Units (TBRU) program to improve understanding of TB latency and persistence. Four new institutions will collaborate on research projects focusing on biomarkers, metabolic factors and T cell responses to control TB.
Researchers at Northwestern University have found a secret bodyguard for the ears - a newly discovered connection from the cochlea to the brain that warns of intense incoming noise. This novel pain system protects the ear from very loud or damaging noise, which may be why people jam their fingers in their ears when exposed to loud soun...
Dr. Yeh's research found inadequate macronutrient delivery associated with lower discharge rates to home, highlighting the need for improved nutritional therapy in ICU patients. The study contributes to a growing understanding of the importance of nutrition in critical care outcomes.
The comprehensive maps and analyses of the epigenomes of human cells and tissues will provide new insights into normal development and disruption in disorders such as cancer, autism, and heart disease. The data will also be valuable in studying autoimmune diseases, Alzheimer's disease, and other conditions.
Researchers traced tropical fire ant origins to Acapulco, Mexico, and mapped their invasion history using genetic diversity analysis. The ants were transported on ships going between the Americas and Asia, establishing a new distribution in virtually all tropical regions.
Scientists at UC San Diego School of Medicine discovered that autism mutations are connected to a pathway regulating brain development. The study found that specific genes were expressed in different developmental periods, influencing brain growth and behavior.
French scientists have discovered that vertebrate formation is guided by a pattern present from early development stages, with folds along boundaries of elastic contrast forming the final shape. This finding explains how complex structures like vertebrates emerged during evolution.
Researchers have discovered that licorice extract's antioxidant active compound Licochalcone A strengthens the skin's defense systems, producing higher amounts of self-protecting molecules. This approach may provide superior sun protection by combining physical and biological defenses.
A new grant will fund research to develop a rapid diagnosis for mucormycosis, a rare fungal infection that kills more than half of its victims. The project aims to create a quick and accurate test to help physicians treat the infection promptly.
The National Institutes of Health has awarded a $6.2 million grant to Weill Cornell Medical College to tackle the global tuberculosis epidemic. The grant, worth up to $45.7 million over seven years, aims to develop new treatments and shorten therapy duration for patients with drug-resistant TB.
INRS researchers found that silver nanoparticles induce stress in the endoplasmic reticulum, triggering an inflammatory response and potentially leading to nanotoxicity. The study suggests a new mechanism of action for these particles, which could have implications for cancer treatment.
Researchers analyzed gene and epigenetic mark changes in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease to understand the role of microglia and immune pathways in disease progression. They found conserved epigenomic signatures between mice and humans, suggesting a potential therapeutic target.
A new study by Berkeley linguists provides evidence that the 'Indo-European' language family originated 5,500 - 6,500 years ago, supporting the 'steppe hypothesis'. The study examined over 200 sets of words from living and dead languages, concluding that divergence began around 6,500 years ago.
Two new NIH-supported trials are examining the safety and acceptability of antiretroviral medicines administered via injection to prevent HIV infection. The studies aim to improve adherence and provide a potential alternative to daily pills for individuals at high risk.
Researchers confirm how viral reservoirs form in patients living with HIV and prove effective in animal trials at blocking pathways to those reservoirs in the brain and gut. Natalizumab, a humanized antibody, effectively blocks monocyte traffic, reversing lesions on the central nervous system.