A team of Russian physicists used a personal computer with GPU to solve complicated integral equations of quantum mechanics, previously only solvable with expensive supercomputers. They achieved speeds up to 15 minutes for calculations that took days on supercomputers.
A new study published in Nature demonstrates complete protection against the Zika virus in mice using two different vaccine candidates. The researchers showed that a single dose of either a DNA vaccine or a purified inactivated virus vaccine provides complete protection, similar to existing vaccines for other flaviviruses.
Computer scientists at Duke University have developed software that allows users to specify what others can see on camera, preventing inadvertent disclosure of sensitive information. The researchers presented a system that enables users to select the part of a scene they want to share, either by hand or with a few clicks.
Tampon manufacturers could dedicate a portion of their revenues to support public health programs preventing domestic and sexual violence, affecting over a billion women globally. Effective strategies have been identified but remain underfunded due to stigma.
A new study found that methylene blue increased response in brain areas controlling short-term memory and attention, leading to improved reaction times and memory retrieval. The results suggest that methylene blue can regulate certain brain networks related to sustained attention and short-term memory after a single oral low dose.
A study found that 24 months of treatment with antidepressant escitalopram did not improve mortality, illness, or mood in patients with chronic heart failure and depression. Depression was shown to be an independent predictor of mortality and rehospitalization in these patients.
Researchers are investigating genetic variations and unconventional T-cells that enable macrophages to resist Mtb infection in HIV-positive individuals. The study aims to identify biomarkers of resistance and novel approaches to TB vaccine and treatment.
The European Medicines Agency has revised its trial design guidelines for acute coronary syndromes, emphasizing the use of troponin to diagnose myocardial infarction. The new guidelines also recommend a more nuanced approach to risk analysis, including subgroup analysis according to risk levels. This updated framework aims to promote t...
A study comparing standardized rehabilitation therapy to usual ICU care found no difference in median hospital length of stay, despite improved functional-related and health-related quality-of-life outcomes at discharge.
Research from the University of British Columbia shows that people in areas with high temperatures and social deprivation are more likely to die during extreme heat events. The study found pockets of risk throughout Vancouver's region, including Downtown Eastside and low-income neighborhoods.
Researchers at OIST Graduate University have successfully captured the spreading of a droplet as it interacts with another mixable liquid for the first time. The study reveals that the droplets spread in a way resembling a 'hat' shape, with the brim continuing to expand over time until fully integrated into the second liquid.
A new preclinical study suggests that an effective Zika vaccine is achievable. Two vaccine candidates were tested and found to be safe and protective against the virus in mice. The purified inactivated virus (PIV) vaccine is being developed and planned for human testing later this year.
Researchers have long struggled to understand the factors contributing to battery inefficiency. A new study led by Texas A&M University chemist Sarbajit Banerjee reveals that trapped electrons, which form 'puddles of charge,' are a major obstacle. By imaging these electron clusters using advanced X-ray microscopy, the team has gained i...
Research by Mirta Galesic and colleagues suggests that moderately-sized groups of experts can make wiser choices than larger crowds in qualitative decisions. Smaller groups, around five to seven members, are likely to outperform larger ones in situations such as medical diagnoses or election forecasts.
Researchers found that THC and other cannabinoids reduce amyloid beta protein levels and eliminate inflammatory responses in brain cells. This study may provide insights into developing novel therapeutics for Alzheimer's disease.
A 25-year study found that despite decreased malaria transmission in Africa, older children are increasingly contracting the disease due to decreased immunity. The shift is attributed to changes in bednet usage, which may hinder progress toward malaria elimination.
Researchers propose using small amounts of efavirenz to increase CYP46A1 enzyme activity, leading to improved memory and reduced plaque development. Studies suggest a 40% increase in cholesterol breakdown in mouse models, with potential benefits for human Alzheimer's patients.
Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory engineered a novel enzyme to alter lignin structure in aspen trees, resulting in increased access to biofuel building blocks without inhibiting plant growth. The modified trees released up to 62% more simple sugars and had an almost 50% increase in ethanol yield
The 1815 UK geologic map, created by William Smith, is still remarkably accurate two centuries later due to its innovative features. The map's accuracy can be attributed to a combination of creative individuality, technological advancements, and favorable taxation laws.
Two experimental Zika vaccines fully protected mice from infection, even after four weeks without inoculation. The DNA and inactivated virus vaccines induced virus-specific antibodies, correlating with protection against infection.
Researchers at Binghamton University developed a framework that calculates relationships between select features of terrorist attacks, predicting characteristics with over 90% accuracy. The framework analyzes past attacks to identify future patterns, supporting the idea that terrorists learn from each other's behavior.
A new study by University of Guelph researchers found that exposure to diluted bitumen impairs swimming ability and changes heart structures in young salmon. The Trans Mountain pipeline expansion project is expected to increase oil sands products reaching the Pacific coast.
A new study found that adolescents living in neighborhoods with more greenery have less aggressive behaviors. The researchers linked the adolescents' residential locations to satellite data, measuring the levels of greenery and associated it with reduced aggressive behaviors.
A recent study published in The BMJ found that medical devices approved first in the EU have a higher rate of safety issues, while clinical trial results remain unpublished or unavailable up to five years after approval. Experts call for greater regulatory transparency to enable informed decisions about treatment.
Researchers found that veils and headscarves can actually improve observers' ability to detect truthfulness in witnesses, contrary to common court assumptions. The study's results suggest that the presence of a veil may compel observers to pay attention to more 'diagnostic' cues, leading to higher accuracy rates in lie detection.
Researchers at CERN are investigating new particles that may shed light on the standard model of particle physics. The discovery of the Higgs boson in 2012 failed to explain phenomena such as dark matter and neutrino mass, sparking ongoing searches for supersymmetric particles and other explanations.
A study published in Psychological Medicine identified risk factors that can predict post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depression among emergency services workers. Early assessment can help offer targeted training to improve resilience, reducing episodes of mental illness and improving long-term health.
Urban rabbits use scent marks to separate themselves from neighbors along territorial boundaries, indicating a greater need for segregation.
Researchers found that customers with insurance are less critical of costs, leading to overcharging and higher prices. The study showed a significant difference in repair prices, with customers with insurance paying up to €128.68 compared to €70.17 without insurance.
The College of American Pathologists, International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer, and Association for Molecular Pathology announced a revised evidence-based guideline for molecular testing in lung cancer patients. The guidelines aim to improve patient selection and targeted therapies.
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have discovered a possible first therapy for Mucolipidosis IV by extending their findings from fruit flies to a mouse model. Bone marrow transplantation significantly delayed the onset of motor deficits in MLIV mice, preventing the amplification process that causes neurodegeneration and blindness.
A meta-analysis of studies shows oral aloe vera use is associated with significant decreases in fasting blood glucose (FBG) and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). The greatest benefits may be seen in individuals with FBG >200 mg/dL.
A new PCR multiplex method makes lab testing more effective for diagnosing persistent diarrhea caused by bacteria or parasites. Accurate diagnosis is crucial to determine treatment, as antimicrobial therapy can be useful but only for those who test negative for a pathogen.
A new study by Sarah Horton found that many agribusiness companies provide employees with valid work authorization documents belonging to friends or family members. This practice, known as 'ghost workers,' allows employers to disguise the employment of undocumented immigrants and evade labor laws. The research highlights the role of id...
A new study found that intense media coverage of the statins controversy led to a rise in patients stopping the treatment, with an 11% and 12% increase in existing users quitting statins for primary and secondary prevention. The study suggests that widespread reporting of debates can have a significant impact on patient behavior.
Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute have discovered a peptide sequence that can carry molecules and nanoparticles to acutely damaged areas of the brain, providing a new means of delivering therapeutics for traumatic brain injuries. This technology has the potential to minimize the effects of secondary injur...
James F. Gusella, a renowned geneticist, will receive the William Allan Award for his substantial and far-reaching scientific contributions to human genetics and neurogenetics research. Dr. Gusella's work has mapped genes associated with neurological conditions such as Huntington disease, ALS, and Alzheimer disease.
A study found that only 53% of industry-funded clinical trials were listed on a data sharing website, despite the companies' commitment to share data. The proportion of shared data varied significantly between sponsors, with GlaxoSmithKline reporting 66% and Boehringer Ingelheim reporting 24%.
A study published in mSystems journal found that Boston's subway system is heavily colonized by microbes from human skin, with surface type being the major driver of variation. The majority of microbes found were from normal human skin and were harmless, but some samples showed low levels of gut and oral microbes.
Researchers at Clemson University are working on a sensor that can detect tributyl phosphate, a solvent used to enrich uranium. The goal is to create a reliable and long-lasting sensor that can be deployed remotely to investigate potential nuclear threats.
A new study by University of Miami researchers uses satellite data to quantify the impact of man-made canals and levees on Louisiana's coastal wetlands. The study found that these structures limit tidal inundation in 45% of the state's coastline, threatening the ecosystems' ability to adapt to sea-level rise.
A new study found that a standard protocol for physical therapy in ICU patients with acute respiratory failure did not shorten hospital length of stay. However, the test group showed improved physical function and health-related quality of life at six months post-discharge.
A study in the Journal of Transport & Health found that car ownership reduces exercise during travel, while bike ownership promotes it. Londoners who mainly walk or cycle for their trips tend to be more active.
A new study aims to identify the best method for collecting sexual orientation and gender identity data from patients in emergency departments. The EQUALITY Study found that non-verbal self-reporting is the preferred method among both patient and provider respondents, despite concerns about offending patients.
A special collection of articles from the Journal of Medical Entomology provides in-depth research on Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, including its introduction to North America, disease transmission, and control measures. The studies highlight the importance of understanding this invasive insect for effective mosquito management.
Research suggests that overly involved parents can hinder emerging adults' development, leading to lower self-efficacy, anxiety, and depression. Students with more autonomous mothers reported higher life satisfaction and physical health.
Researchers found that commercial formulations of entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium brunneum and Beauveria bassiana were effective in reducing house fly and stable fly egg-laying. The most effective product, Met52 EC, reduced oviposition by more than half and inhibited house fly development.
A new thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) material has been developed, displaying emission of light in colors from green to deep-red through intersystem crossing. This breakthrough contributes to the development of inexpensive and highly efficient OLEDs.
Astronomers discovered a rare cosmic tadpole galaxy, LEDA 36252, with its bright head and elongated tail. The galaxy features surprisingly young stars with a total mass equivalent to 10,000 Suns, indicating a recent burst of star formation triggered by the accretion of primordial gas.
Researchers at TSRI have advanced efforts to design an AIDS vaccine by stabilizing the HIV Envelope glycoprotein trimer and designing novel nanoparticles that mimic the virus. The stabilization strategy improves the protein's properties, allowing for the creation of HIV-like particles that can prompt the body to fight the real virus.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that obesity in early adulthood is associated with a significantly increased risk of developing multiple sclerosis. The research, led by Dr. Brent Richards, used Mendelian randomization to investigate the link between genetically determined obesity and MS risk. The study found that an averag...
A recent NIH-supported study pinpoints the origin of the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic in central Mexico, where it emerged from pigs before spreading to humans. The research highlights the importance of tracking swine populations and understanding how economic factors contribute to viral outbreaks.
Researchers from Hebrew University of Jerusalem discovered that social time cues override light exposure in regulating honeybees' natural body clock. This finding highlights the complexity of clock regulation in natural habitats and has implications for understanding circadian rhythms in other species.
Researchers found that the degree of cold in the preceding ice age determines how fast vegetation adapts to interglacial climates. The study reveals that plants need thousands of years to adapt from a cold to a warmer period, with permafrost being the main reason for this delay.
Researchers identified two risk factors for childhood binge eating: parental non-involvement or emotional unresponsiveness, and weight-related teasing in the family. Childhood binge eating is not about feeling full, but losing control and experiencing emotional distress.
Researchers at Rutgers University have developed a soft motor that enables torque without bending, making it suitable for search and rescue missions, deep space exploration, and manipulating objects during MRI. The squishy wheels allow for passive suspensions in wheeled vehicles, making the design simple yet effective.
A recent study found that a period of controversy over statin risks and benefits led to a temporary increase in people stopping their statin treatment in the UK. The study, published in The BMJ, suggests that widespread media coverage may have impacted healthcare-related behavior.
Tropical Cyclone 02A was affected by wind shear, elongating from a tropical easterly jet stream. The storm's trajectory shifted eastward on June 28, with a forecasted dissipation date due to unfavorable vertical wind shear conditions.
Researchers developed a new method to maintain the transplantation efficiency of satellite cells, which are found in skeletal muscles. The study used leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) to enhance muscle fiber formation after transplantation, resulting in two to three times more fibers formed compared to control cells.
Researchers found that small imprecisions in surface lattice sites can affect the density of deposited particles, leading to less efficient deposition processes and lower ultimate coverage. This study suggests that a certain degree of relaxation may be more effective in improving dense structures.
Researchers developed a theoretical model to forecast chemical reactions involving molecular hydrogen, accurately calculating the probability of electron-molecular hydrogen reactions. The model has major implications for fusion plasmas, aerospace materials, astrophysics, and medical applications.
A study found that adults with acute leukemia had a significantly higher risk of death if they lived in certain North Carolina regions with limited healthcare resources. Researchers analyzed data from 2003 to 2009 and found that patients in these areas were more likely to die, even after controlling for other factors.
The National Institutes of Health has awarded a five-year grant of $69.6 million to support the UCLA Clinical and Translational Science Institute's research partnership, building on previous funding totaling over $152.7 million. The consortium aims to accelerate the translation of laboratory discoveries into effective treatments for pa...
Researchers developed a novel synthesis method for glaziovianin A from parsley and dill seeds, inhibiting human tumor cell growth. The compounds also showed promise in testing human cancer cells, with the parent compound being the most active anti-tubulin agent.
A new, rare blind planthopper species has been discovered exclusively in a Brazilian cave. The species, Iuiuia caeca, is a small, yellowish insect that measures only 3mm, and its unique characteristics make it essential for understanding subterranean biodiversity.
A five-year federal grant will discover progesterone-like compounds from commonly consumed botanicals and their role in women's health. The research aims to improve safety and inform decisions on self-medicating with botanicals.
Researchers found that Zika virus infection can persist for up to 70 days in pregnant monkeys, whereas non-pregnant animals clear the virus within 10 days. The study suggests that immune systems of mothers-to-be may be compromised, allowing the virus to linger.
The study reveals that Group B streptococcus (GBS) uses the enzyme hyaluronidase to evade the immune system during pregnancy, leading to neonatal morbidity and mortality. Blocking this enzyme could lead to eradication of GBS and new treatments for other ascending infections.
Researchers have developed a new method to detect atmospheric chemicals using mid-infrared lasers, generating glowing plasma filaments that reveal chemical fingerprints.
Researchers at Ontario Institute for Cancer Research created protein signatures to accurately diagnose prostate cancer and distinguish between aggressive and non-aggressive disease. The findings could lead to a non-invasive 'liquid biopsy' that provides faster, cheaper, and easier detection of prostate cancer.
Researchers at the University of Sheffield have developed biodegradable and harmless silk micro-rockets using innovative 3D inkjet printing. These devices can be used in drug delivery and locating cancer cells, and have the potential to revolutionize safe biological environments.
Researchers at EMBL-EBI develop an algorithm to cluster peptide mass spectra, identifying 9 million consistently unidentified spectra. This breakthrough simplifies the detection of post-translational modifications and variants, paving the way for more efficient exploitation of proteomics data.
Researchers have found that measuring copper and zinc concentrations in blood and tissue may allow for early diagnosis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The study, presented at the Goldschmidt conference, showed significant changes in these elements prior to symptom onset.
A new study by bioengineers at Brigham and Women's Hospital demonstrates the effectiveness of combination therapies in eliminating cancer cells. By pairing chemotherapy drug docetaxel with a targeted PI3K inhibitor, researchers achieved greater tumor inhibition and eliminated evidence of resistance.
A recent study found that balancing selection can increase the frequency of harmful mutations in non-HLA genes within the MHC region. This mechanism may contribute to the prevalence of heritable diseases. The research team used DNA sequencing data from 6,500 individuals to test this hypothesis.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that 70% of randomized trials' protocols mentioned industry-academic agreement on publication rights, with industry retaining review or disapproval rights. The findings suggest a lack of transparency and potential conflicts of interest.
A team of researchers at Oxford University has identified four genes that play a crucial role in early human development. These genes, known as Argfx, Leutx, Dprx and Tprx, are activated for an extremely brief period, when the embryo is a tiny ball of 8-16 cells. They then switch off, controlling the 'first gear' of embryonic growth.
Researchers discovered that the protein Pentagone regulates a concentration gradient in the fruit fly wing, controlling vein formation. This mechanism may also be relevant to human development disorders, where it could influence finger formation.
A new study in Australia finds that drinking patterns among younger generations are leading to a decline in overall alcohol consumption. The research shows that Australians born in the 1990s are significantly less likely to drink than previous generations.
A Harvard study monitors subway microbes to identify early warning systems for public health threats. The research found that surface type and human interaction significantly influence microbial community structure, with skin- and oral-associated microbes prevalent on poles and seats.
A team of engineers from Washington University in St. Louis is developing a bio-hybrid nose using the highly sensitive locust olfactory system to create new biorobotic sensing systems. The team plans to monitor neural activity and decode odorants present in the environment, paving the way for explosive detection.
A team of Cornell University researchers has devised a method for isolating one specific enzyme activity of SIRT6, a protein with multiple biological functions. The study used a mutant form of SIRT6 to determine its contribution to various functions, including genome stability and metabolism.
A new study finds that converting forests into monoculture palm plantations will cause significant climate-warming carbon emissions. Converting just 11,500 hectares of forest could release 1.5 million metric tons of carbon, equivalent to small developing countries. However, these emissions can be offset over 25 years if development is ...
The NYU Tandon School of Engineering's SMART program teams city teachers with university faculty and graduate students for advanced STEM workshops, research, and entrepreneurship. A new NSF grant adds a weeklong industry experience at major businesses.
Researchers discovered a lost hormone in starfish that is linked to human sexual maturity and evolution. The study found that the evolutionary history of the hormone gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is written in the genes of the starfish, with two GnRH-like hormones found in both humans and fruit flies.
Astronomers have discovered a ring structure of complex organic molecules around a Solar-type protostar, providing direct evidence that interstellar materials are fed into the rotating disk structure. The distribution of these molecules reveals new perspectives on planetary system formation and chemical composition.
A long-term study in over 200 pregnant women found that a special diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids did not result in children being slimmer or fatter than those from the control group. The study challenges earlier findings that suggested omega-6 fatty acids might contribute to infant obesity.
Researchers found that female deer typically travel twice as far and take more convoluted paths than males, making it harder to contain chronic wasting disease. Dispersal rates are density-dependent, meaning higher deer densities lead to greater dispersal.
A study in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs found that Maine's pharmacists were not utilizing its prescription-monitoring program, which could increase patient safety. Meanwhile, a second study suggests that local 'drug take-back' programs can increase public awareness and usage.
The July 2016 issue of Geology features studies on pre-Mississippian tectonic affinity across the Canada Basin-Arctic margins, as well as hydrothermal alteration of seafloor peridotites. Researchers also investigate recent volcanic resurfacing of Venusian craters and cyanobacterial fossilization in Ediacaran siliciclastic environments.
A recent study published in Marine Biodiversity Records reveals that lionfish have colonized almost the entire southeastern coast of Cyprus within a year, thanks to rising sea temperatures. The invasive species can outcompete native fish and reduce biodiversity in the area.
A new study found that internet users who primarily accessed the web for entertainment purposes, such as watching cat videos, were less likely to demand democracy in their countries. In contrast, those who used the internet for news and sharing political opinions were more likely to support democratic reforms. The researchers suggest t...
A University of Miami research team created a mathematical model to investigate the role of sexual transmission in the spread and control of Zika. The study found that mosquito control remains the most important mitigation method, but sexual transmission increases the risk of infection and prolongs outbreaks.
Researchers developed novel techniques to visualize uncultured microbial cell activity using BONCAT, a high-throughput and cost-effective approach. This method identifies individual active cells and clusters within microbial communities, providing insights into the ecological function of microorganisms.
Researchers develop mathematical model of animal social networks, finding that newborns copy their mother's connections to form social relationships. The study captures key properties of observed networks in four diverse species, suggesting a simple 'social inheritance' mechanism drives social structure.
Researchers have discovered biomarkers using non-invasive liquid biopsies to identify aggressive disease in prostate cancer patients before surgery. The study uses urine samples from 210 patients and identifies a range of proteins that can help predict which patients have slow-growing versus aggressive cancer.
A study by researchers at Tufts University successfully reprograms cells from diabetic foot ulcers into pluripotent stem cells, which can be turned into various cell types important for wound healing. The findings provide a new target for treatment and may lead to the development of more effective therapies for non-healing wounds.
Researchers found that oral bacteria cooperate to make a pathogenic bacterium more infectious by providing an oxygen-rich environment. This cross-respiration allows the pathogen to grow and thrive, leading to worse infections.
Researchers found placental mammals evolved at a constant rate before the extinction event but accelerated rapidly after, resulting in diverse modern groups like bats and cats. The team analyzed fossils from the Cretaceous to present day, finding a massive spike in evolution rates after dinosaur extinction.
A new electric mesh device has been developed to wrap around the heart and deliver electrical impulses, improving cardiac function in experimental models of heart failure. The device is designed to mimic the properties and functions of heart tissue, closely imitating its elasticity and conductivity.
Volanesorsen, a novel lipid-lowering medication, significantly improved insulin sensitivity and glucose control in patients with type 2 diabetes and high triglycerides. The study found a 69% reduction in triglycerides and improved hemoglobin A1c levels, suggesting that lowering triglycerides can improve insulin sensitivity.
A study examining childhood weight's link to age of first substance use found significant correlations between weight status and timing of first use among specific racial and ethnic groups. Hispanic girls who were overweight as children were more likely to begin using substances at an earlier age.
Indiana University chemists Steven Tait and Kenneth Caulton will develop new catalysts for molecular transformations using surface chemistry and metal-organic chemistry. Their goal is to convert environmentally harmful CO2 molecules into carbon-neutral plastics, building materials, and fuel.
Danish researchers have discovered a possible connection between environmental factors and the onset of puberty. They found that epigenetic changes in the human genome are involved in defining pubertal timing, with specific DNA methylation patterns indicating whether a child has entered puberty.
Two studies in mice reveal that rescuing MeCP2 activity in certain neurons can improve symptoms of Rett syndrome, with different types of neurons playing distinct roles. Researchers are now exploring drugs to improve inhibitory and excitatory neuron balance, offering new hope for potential therapies.
Researchers found that even when conflicting information is invisible, the human brain initiates mechanisms to resolve it. This occurs in the early visual cortex with minimal involvement of the fronto-parietal cortex.
Therapeutic stem cells exit the bloodstream via a distinct process called angiopellosis, where endothelial cells actively push them out of blood vessels. This alternative mechanism allows for longer exit times and multiple cell exits at once, with implications for cancer research and intravenous therapies.
Researchers found a strong five-gene signature in all patients who succumbed to the disease, regardless of their length of survival. The team also tested HXR9, which blocked HOX gene function, forcing cancer cells to close down and die, and found that combining it with cisplatin significantly increased cancer cell killing.