A randomized clinical trial found that providing HIV self-tests increased HIV testing and diagnosis among men who have sex with men. The study also improved rates of viral suppression and reduced stigma around HIV testing.
Researchers from Queen Mary University of London and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew have identified genes associated with ash dieback resistance in UK trees. The study found that resistance is controlled by multiple genes, opening up new avenues for conservation and potentially breeding more resistant trees.
A study reveals how mitochondrial DNA is transmitted between generations, showing that a bottleneck occurs during oogenesis, reducing genetic diversity. This process can affect the inheritance of disease-related mutations, making it crucial for genetic counseling in women planning pregnancies.
The most serious threat to the potato industry in the US is Potato Virus Y (PVY), which causes a 70-80% yield loss and necrotic reactions. New strains like PVY N-Wi and NTN have become dominant, making it challenging for diagnostic labs to detect them.
Research by McGill University scientists found that nanosized metal particles from the Athabasca oil sands accelerate ice nucleation, leading to more frequent and intense extreme weather events. The pollution is also significantly higher near the oil sands than in a Canadian city.
Researchers developed a free online app, eNTRyway, to speed up the discovery of new antibiotics for Gram-negative bacteria. The tool quickly evaluates potential drug compounds and can convert existing drugs into potent killers of Gram-negative pathogens.
Researchers have developed two methods to detect targeted online ads, enabling Data Protection Authorities to identify and protect specific demographic groups. The methods use content-based analysis and frequency-based detection, providing a valuable tool for GDPR compliance.
A study by UC Davis Health physicians reveals that opioid dose tapering is becoming increasingly common, with rates often exceeding CDC recommendations. The study found that nearly 20% of patients tapered at a rate of 40% per month, highlighting the need for more training and guidance on safe tapering practices.
Researchers at Osaka University have discovered a previously unknown type of RA-causing cell within arthritic joints that could be a target for new treatments. The newly discovered cells, dubbed 'AtoMs', have properties that make them amenable to therapeutic targeting.
Researchers reconstructed the beetle family tree, estimating timing and rates of diversification. Beetle genes facilitating herbivory were acquired through horizontal transfer from fungi and bacteria, enabling adaptability to flowering plants.
A US$250 million dollar agreement between Norway and Guyana reduced deforestation in Guyana by over 30 percent during the project period. However, deforestation increased immediately after the agreement ended, raising concerns about the long-term effectiveness of REDD+ programs.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a bio-inspired, liquid, sludge- and bacteria-repellent coating that can make toilets self-cleaning. The coating, called LESS, reduces the amount of water needed to flush a conventional toilet by half, making it more efficient and sustainable.
Critically ill patients undergoing heart stent procedures with Impella ventricular assist devices are at increased risk of bleeding, kidney problems, stroke, and death compared to those using balloon pumps. The study suggests a need for more research on the use of these devices in clinical practice.
Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute identified a combination of two anti-cancer compounds that shrank pancreatic tumors in mice, supporting the immediate evaluation of the drugs in a clinical trial. The study provides rationale for an immediate clinical trial evaluating the 2 therapies
Researchers analyzed data on oil and gas well leakage in British Columbia, finding that 10.8% of wells showed reported leakage, with most incidents involving gas venting. Unremediated surface gas leakage from abandoned wells is estimated to produce significant GHG emissions, equivalent to nearly 75,000 metric tonnes of CO2 per year.
Cardiovascular disease in women often presents differently than in men and may not be diagnosed. Barbra Streisand joins Noel Bairey Merz, director of the Women's Heart Center at Cedars-Sinai, to discuss these key differences.
Exercise referral schemes have been shown to improve physical activity levels among individuals with long-term conditions. However, the analysis of data from 23,731 participants found that while significant improvements were observed in most measures, they did not reach clinical thresholds for meaningful impact.
A study by Indiana University researchers found that two immune receptors, Dectin-1 and TLR2, work together to trigger an inflammatory response against fungal infections. The discovery could lead to new treatments for diseases and improve cancer immunotherapies.
Scientists have characterised genetic alterations caused by six cancer therapies, revealing 'mutational footprints' that can help optimize treatment efficacy and minimize side effects. The study provides a new understanding of the relationship between therapy-induced mutations and long-term side effects.
A study of over 200 patients with bipolar disorder found that high levels of inflammation, as measured by C-reactive protein, were significantly linked to poor cognitive performance. This suggests a potentially modifiable risk factor for cognitive deficits, and highlights the importance of addressing inflammation in treatment.
The new guidelines call for better access to CDK4/6 inhibitors and anti-HER2 therapies for patients with advanced breast cancer. Experts also stress the need for adequate pain control, particularly in countries where opioids are scarce or misused.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a new method for producing atomically-thin semiconducting crystals, which could lead to advances in quantum computing, nanotechnology, and consumer electronics. The breakthrough method enables faster and less expensive production of next-generation semiconductor crystals.
Researchers have developed a process to create synthetic polymers with precision of biology, enabling the production of advanced materials such as nanoelectronics, self-healing materials, and fuel cells. This breakthrough could lead to improved personal protective gear and sophisticated electronics for Soldiers.
Researchers analyzed stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes in fur samples from 29 species of mammals to measure the impact of agriculture on their diet. The study found that herbivores and omnivores inhabiting forest fragments consumed agricultural resources, while carnivores close to croplands preyed on prey that feed on these resources.
A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found no association between statin use and memory or cognitive decline in elderly patients. Statin users showed similar cognitive performance to never-users, suggesting potential protective effects in this population.
A new study has found that early menopause is associated with a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. The observational study revealed a significant increase in cardiovascular events among women who experienced natural premature menopause or surgery-induced menopause before age 40.
A new study created three games for level three and higher semi-autonomous vehicles, which can play with other players nearby. The researchers evaluated the games using a virtual reality driving simulator and participant feedback, finding that participants rated the games highly in immersion and enjoyed playing with strangers.
A study of over 1,000 elderly individuals reveals that statin use is not associated with memory loss or cognitive decline. In fact, statins may even slow down cognitive decline in individuals at risk of dementia.
Researchers developed an AI system named SHMnet to analyze and assess damage in metallic structures, achieving a flawless identification record. The system has the potential to provide reliable, accurate, and affordable monitoring of bridges, towers, dams, and other metal structures.
A new guideline from the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care recommends against routine screening for thyroid dysfunction in nonpregnant adults without symptoms or risk factors. The evidence suggests that this type of screening has no health benefits and may lead to unnecessary testing, medication, and follow-up appointments.
A Danish study found that teenagers with cleanliness rituals and poor insights into their condition are more likely to struggle with OCD despite standard cognitive behavioural therapy. Almost 60% of the patients experienced a worrying relapse after three years.
A new paper by J. Ryan Lamare found that hiring a lawyer in arbitration doesn't guarantee better outcomes for employees, as employers can also hire lawyers to counteract positive effects
A new study by the University of Manchester reveals a strong link between borderline personality disorder (BPD) and childhood trauma. The research analyzed data from over 5,000 people across 42 international studies, finding that 71.1% of those with BPD reported at least one traumatic childhood experience.
Researchers found that women following healthful dietary patterns had lower risk of decline in hearing sensitivity. The study, published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, suggests that eating a healthy diet may help prevent or delay hearing loss.
The American Thoracic Society has published a new clinical guideline for the treatment and prevention of drug-resistant tuberculosis, emphasizing the use of all-oral regimens. The guideline also recommends treatment for all contacts of MDR-TB patients and provides evidence-based guidance for pregnant women with MDR-TB.
A nationwide study led by University of Wisconsin Oshkosh researcher Jeremiah Bohr finds that high energy bills can force households to reduce spending on necessities, leading to increased risk of poverty. The study emphasizes the importance of energy assistance and efficiency for low-income households.
Researchers from Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies propose a new framework for understanding same-sex behavior in animals, arguing that these behaviors are not costly but rather neutral and advantageous. They suggest that these tendencies likely evolved in the earliest forms of sexual behavior and may be more common than ...
A study of over 300 transgender children found that their gender identity is as strong as that of cisgender children, regardless of how long they have lived in their assigned gender. This suggests that transgender children may be self-socializing to learn how to 'be' their current gender.
Researchers have discovered that balancing elementary steps in alkaline hydrogen evolution reactions can improve electrocatalytic performance. By designing nanocrystals with tunable Ni/NiO heterosurfaces, the team found that a balanced composition ratio is crucial for promoting alkaline HER performance.
A study reveals a decline in forest carbon storage time, hindering forests' ability to absorb and re-emit carbon. Forests are crucial for regulating atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations, and increased tree mortality is contributing to this decline.
The new invention can efficiently convert low-grade heat to electricity, reducing greenhouse gas emission and cutting primary energy wastage. The Direct Thermal Charging Cell (DTCC) boasts a conversion efficiency of over 3.5%, surpassing existing technologies.
A recent study at the University of Virginia has made a groundbreaking discovery about fertilization, revealing that sperm and eggs fuse in a dynamic process where both play an active role. The research may lead to new treatments for infertility, including male contraceptives and improved IVF success rates.
Researchers have discovered that peacock mantis shrimp prefer the taste of white meat over red tissue from disco clams, suggesting that color may not be a warning signal. The study aims to determine whether mantis shrimp can learn to fear the color red and its potential role in evolution.
A recent NIH-funded study found that children born to mothers on HIV therapy containing the drug efavirenz were 2-2.5 times more likely to have microcephaly and experience developmental delays compared to those on other antiretroviral drugs.
High helicopter parenting can result in 'hothouse children' who lack autonomy, struggle with anxiety and internalizing problems, and may repeat their parents' behaviors.
Researchers Chris Roh and Morteza Gharib found that honeybees can harness the power of their wetted wings as hydrofoils to propel themselves forward. By generating a net horizontal momentum imparted to water, bees overcome drag forces and achieve efficient locomotion on water's surface.
A team of physicists has discovered a quadruple potential well in ferroelectric copper indium thiophosphate (CIPS), increasing the number of options in ferroelectric switching. This finding could lead to new operations and applications in data storage and electronics.
A study by Rutgers University researchers found that social media platforms' boundaries between legitimate and improper user behavior are vague and inconsistent. The authors argue that these rules often reflect the companies' commercial interests rather than a coherent understanding of manipulation and deception.
The 'Half Earth' conservation proposal aims to spare 50% of the planet for nature, but its impact on human populations is significant. A study estimates that over 1 billion people would be directly affected, primarily in middle-income countries and wealthy nations.
Google's Relightables system allows users to record someone then view them from any viewpoint and lighting condition, removing the need for a green screen. The system captures reflectance information on a person and records while they are moving freely within the volume, enabling relighting in arbitrary environments.
Researchers studied traditional Khasi building techniques for living root bridges, which can reach over 50 meters in length and withstand centuries. The bridges' complex root structure provides stable and safe passage, while also serving as a natural cooling system for cities.
A national REDD+ program in Guyana reduced tree cover loss by 35%, equivalent to 12.8 million tons of avoided carbon emissions. However, tree cover loss increased significantly after carbon payments ended, highlighting the importance of continuous forest protection measures.
Researchers found that local grassland plant diversity increased significantly over time but incompletely recovered, while plant productivity did not significantly recover. After 1-91 years of abandonment, fields had 38-73% of the plant diversity and 34-53% of the plant productivity compared to untouched land.
TARA Biosystems' human heart-on-a-chip technology shows promise in predicting preclinical systolic and diastolic in vivo observations for novel cardiac drug MYK-491. The platform uses human induced pluripotent stem cells to create physiologically relevant cardiac tissues.
Professor Muzlifah Haniffa has made significant contributions to biomedical science, including mapping the maternal-fetal interface and discovering new immune cells in the skin. Her work aims to improve understanding of health and disease, particularly in childhood kidney cancer.
Researchers used virtual reality to test how humans remember positions in space with distorted grid cell patterns. In trapezoidal environments, participants were worse at learning positions than in square environments, and their memories remained distorted even when no longer in the environment.
NASA's analysis of Typhoon Kalmaegi's cloud top temperatures revealed the strongest storms are located over Luzon and northern Philippines. Heavy rain is expected due to these strong storm systems, posing a threat to the region.
A team of researchers at Penn State developed a way to control the direction of self-propelled protocells using enzymes that catalyze chemical reactions. The protocells can move towards or away from specific chemical signals, enabling targeted drug delivery and reducing the amount of medication required.
A high-protein diet may boost chronic kidney disease and increase the risk of de novo kidney diseases, says a new study. Experts warn that patients with diabetes or obesity who follow a high-protein diet may be at risk of severe kidney damage.
A new 3D printing technique harnesses the power of visible light to create 'living' 4D materials with controlled polymerisation, enabling objects to transform their shape in response to conditions. The technology has numerous potential applications, including recycling and biomedical uses.