Researchers identified 22 additional δ-hexatoxins from 10 Australian funnel web spider species, suggesting the venom plays a defensive role. The toxins' high human toxicity may have emerged as a result of their original function against nonhuman vertebrate predators.
A study examines evacuation behaviors during a global pandemic, revealing that people impacted by mandatory hurricane evacuations are choosing to shelter in place due to health concerns. The research aims to inform public health messaging and identify safety education strategies to increase household preparedness.
A Rutgers study found that college students with disabilities are more likely to misuse prescription pain relievers and have a higher prevalence of drug use disorder. The study also highlights the need for healthcare providers to be aware of the risk of drug misuse in this population.
Researchers at University of Ottawa receive $3 million from SSHRC to study the pandemic's effects on abortion provision and services. The Partnership Grants aim to inform decision-making across various sectors in response to emerging challenges.
A team of researchers at Boston University has found that SARS-CoV-2 initially suppresses the lung cells' ability to activate the immune system, triggering a deadly inflammatory pathway. This activation leads to an influx of immune cells and an increase in inflammation in the lungs.
Researchers created an optimal experimental environment by introducing engineered plant enzyme into E. coli bacteria. They discovered that a specific subunit of Rubisco works faster than others and can be improved in bacteria to boost crop productivity.
A new CRISPR-based diagnostic method has been developed to detect four species of the malarial parasite Plasmodium. The test uses a nucleic acid detection platform called SHERLOCK and is optimized for field conditions, with a cost of $0.61 per test.
According to a study by University of Colorado Denver researcher Serena Kim, 20% of US airports have adopted solar photovoltaic systems over the last decade. Airports operated by general-purpose governments have deployed solar panels more than special-purpose governments.
Scientists uncover how pomalidomide reduces cancer cell growth by breaking down the protein ARID2, promoting MYC gene expression. This finding provides a plausible explanation for pomalidomide's efficacy in treating lenidomide-resistant multiple myeloma.
A new study published in Emotion journal found that older adults who took weekly 15-minute 'awe walks' for eight weeks reported increased positive emotions and less distress. Participants showed a visible shift in their selfies, featuring landscapes instead of themselves, and experienced significant boosts in daily prosocial emotions.
A new study analyzing 16 years of data on tens of thousands of products found that the adoption of nutrition data on 'front of package' (FOP) labels is associated with improved nutritional content. FOP labeling was linked to a 12.5% reduction in calories, 12.97% reduction in saturated fat, and other improvements in nutrients.
New research reveals that fear and anxiety are constructed from a shared set of core neural building blocks. The study's findings suggest that the brain regions long thought to be responsible for each emotion are actually equally sensitive to certain and uncertain threats.
Stanford University scientists have identified a class of solid materials that could replace flammable liquid electrolytes in lithium-ion batteries, improving safety and performance. The new materials, made of lithium, boron, and sulfur, show promise as stable and efficient alternatives.
PSI scientists investigate strontium-iridium oxide, an antiferromagnetic material, to systematically control its magnetic and electronic properties. By manipulating thin films, they can fine-tune the material's properties, leading to potential applications in data storage.
A clinical trial led by Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center found the iCanQuit app to be nearly 1.5 times more effective in helping adult smokers quit after 12 months compared to the National Cancer Institute's QuitGuide app. The study suggests that for every 100,000 smokers reached with iCanQuit, 28,000 would quit smoking.
Astronomers have discovered an Earth-sized 'pi planet' called K2-315b, which orbits its star every 3.14 days and has a surface temperature of around 350 degrees Fahrenheit, making it unlikely to support life.
Researchers found that a hybrid strategy combining electronic medical records with postal mailings is more effective than traditional methods in recruiting diverse participant populations. This approach increased participation among underrepresented groups, including Black participants and women, while being cost-effective.
Hospitalizations for alcohol use disorder in the US rose significantly over a nearly two-decade period, with an increase of 10%, resulting in more in-hospital deaths. The study also found that age-standardized rates of hospitalization and death due to alcohol use disorder remained high across different demographic groups.
A study found that long-term exposure to PM2.5 in China is associated with a significant mortality burden, accounting for 30.8 million premature deaths between 2000 and 2016.
The satellite detected a low-frequency quasi-periodic oscillation (QPO) above 200 keV in a black hole binary, indicating the presence of a relativistic jet near the event horizon. The discovery resolves the long-running debate on the physical origin of low-frequency QPOs.
Scientists combine farmers' knowledge of resilient crops with elite varieties identified by scientists to improve crop yields and adaptability. Traditional varieties have shown better performance in Ethiopian trials, outperforming elite ones.
Researchers have identified two variants of Parkinson's disease, with one starting in the intestines and spreading to the brain, and another starting in the brain and affecting the intestines and heart. This discovery could lead to personalized medicine and new treatment options for patients.
A new study found that middle-aged Americans without a college degree report higher levels of pain than older Americans. The research team analyzed data from over 2.5 million adults and found that each generation of less-educated Americans experiences more pain throughout their lives.
Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory created a composite material that increases electrical current capacity of copper wires, enabling more efficient electric vehicle traction motors. The new material can be scaled for use in ultra-efficient devices with improved performance and reduced cost.
Researchers developed an optoelectronic implant that stimulates sensory neurons with light, inducing mild inflammation in animals. This study shows a neuroimmune interaction between pain and inflammation, offering new insights into future treatments.
Researchers found 92 endangered and 11 critically endangered species of seafood were caught globally. The seafood industry lacks effective conservation policies due to international supply chains.
A new material has been developed to transplant bone-forming stem cells into severe bone fractures and speed up the healing process. The bone-like bandage is coated in a protein used for growth and repair, allowing it to enhance the natural ability of bones to heal.
Research suggests that witnessing a relative or neighbor manage diabetes can influence an individual's approach to self-management. Healthcare providers must consider patients' life circumstances, including financial resources, to optimize care. Asks healthcare providers to collect both quantitative and qualitative data to better under...
Lockdowns cause disproportionate harm to children, affecting education and mental health. The authors argue that measures must balance young people's rights to education with community protection, prioritizing evidence-based interventions.
Researchers discovered ultraviolet emissions on Comet Chury due to solar wind electrons striking its coma. The phenomenon, similar to Earth's aurora borealis, provides new insights into comet environments.
A $22.7 million NIH grant will create a national research hub at UW-Madison, providing access to cutting-edge cryo-EM and cryo-ET technologies for scientists across the US. The center aims to train a new workforce and improve these imaging techniques, which hold potential for breakthroughs in medicine and life sciences.
Researchers have developed a new type of solar cell that can reflect 99% of the energy it can't convert into electricity, allowing for more efficient use of waste heat from exhaust pipes and chimneys. This technology has the potential to make renewable energy storage cheaper by ten-fold compared to traditional battery-based systems.
The researchers recommend returning to classic zeolites, which are efficient catalysts that can be modified and adapted for specific purposes. The team found inconsistencies in the literature on how aluminium atoms catalyse reactions, highlighting the need for further understanding of these active centres.
Researchers identified Neurofilament light chain in vitreous humor, a potential biomarker for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Higher levels were associated with higher levels of other biomarkers known to be linked to neurodegeneration.
The October issue of SLAS Technology features a cover article on the role of digital microfluidics in enabling access to laboratory automation and making biology programmable. The article discusses the challenges faced by scientists, including costs and late-stage risk, and explores how digital microfluidics can overcome these challenges.
A study by Oregon State University found that marbled murrelets are at risk of local extinctions due to changing ocean conditions and loss of old forest habitats. The bird's long-distance nesting commute and reliance on forage fish make it vulnerable to habitat fluctuations.
Researchers found lower frequencies of immune cells needed to expel the virus in older patients, leading to reduced effectiveness in fighting off SARS-CoV-2. The study suggests that cytotoxic T cells play a key role in controlling early infections, but further studies are needed to harness their potential for immunotherapy.
A new study published in CMAJ found a spike in peanut and tree-nut anaphylaxis cases among Canadian children during Halloween and Easter, with previously unknown allergies identified.
A new study from the University of Eastern Finland finds that sustainable nature tourism can effectively mediate conflicts between nature conservation and tourism. The approach was successfully implemented in Koli National Park, where it helped balance economic development with environmental protection.
Researchers developed a machine-learning algorithm that can detect subtle signs of osteoarthritis on MRI scans taken years before symptoms begin. The algorithm predicted osteoarthritis with 78% accuracy from MRIs performed three years before symptom onset, offering hope for preventative treatments.
Studies presented at ESMO Virtual Congress 2020 show that immunotherapy improves overall survival and progression-free survival in patients with gastric and oesophageal cancers who have high PD-L1 scores. Nivolumab and pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy are shown to be beneficial for these patients, offering new treatment options.
The NASA-NOAA Suomi NPP satellite found Post-Tropical Storm Alpha's remnants covering Portugal and northwestern Spain, following its short-lived formation and landfall in Portugal. The storm had degenerated to a post-tropical remnant low by Sept. 18.
A research team created dual-mode sensors that capture texture and force, enabling precise measurement of movement magnitude, load, rate, duration, and direction. These sensors could aid people with severe injuries and contribute to advanced robotics.
A recent study published in the journal Cancer found that Black women with breast cancer experience delays in starting treatment and have extended durations of treatment compared to white women. The study, led by UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center researchers, also identified socioeconomic status as a significant factor influen...
ALS Ventures has closed its first round of investments with a $59M commitment, targeting novel therapeutics in preclinical development. The firm aims to accelerate R&D from discovery stage to late preclinical development.
Tropical Storm Dolphin formed from Tropical Depression 14W, strengthening with deep convection and organized thunderstorms. The storm is expected to move north and then northeast, potentially strengthening to 55 knots.
The October edition of SLAS Discovery features a critical review of mass spectrometry applied to imaging in drug discovery, highlighting its potential for pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic measurements. The issue also includes original research articles on various topics in life sciences discovery and technology.
Researchers discovered a cat named Negrito became infected with SARS-CoV-2 after exposure to its owner, who had COVID-19. The study found that Negrito developed antibodies against the virus, suggesting an immune response was triggered.
A new Cleveland Clinic study of over 13,000 patients found no link between influenza vaccination and COVID-19 risk. The researchers strongly advise people to get their flu vaccines this fall to mitigate the risk of simultaneous viral infections and epidemics.
Researchers developed a behavioural test to measure rats' individual emotional experiences and found that vocalisations during 'tickling' accurately reflect their emotional states. The study suggests using call patterns to understand and improve rat welfare.
Pediatric patients hospitalized with COVID-19 exhibit altered immune responses, limited antibody production, and improved outcomes. Children generally experience milder symptoms and lower mortality rates than adults, potentially linked to differences in innate immunity.
A study published in Diabetologia suggests that regular heat exposure through hot baths is associated with improved glycated haemoglobin levels and reduced body weight in patients with type 2 diabetes. The research found daily hot-tub bathing to have beneficial effects on cardiovascular risk factors, including blood pressure.
Researchers have fully identified the nature of oxidised oxygen in Li-rich NMC using RIXS, a key step towards tackling battery longevity and voltage fade. The study reveals that molecular O2 is trapped within the bulk material, enabling a new mechanism for explaining the O-redox process.
A new report highlights the need for top hospitals to prioritize tobacco treatment, citing a disconnect between rankings and smoking cessation care. The study's authors argue that addressing tobacco dependence should be a priority, especially given its impact on various health conditions, resulting in significant healthcare costs.
Increasing tree planting in understocked US forestland could increase carbon sequestration capacity by approximately 20%. Currently, annual tree-planting efforts result in sequestering around 16-28 million metric tons of CO2 from the atmosphere.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a method to fabricate large quantities of Molybdenum Disulfide (MoS2) in a controlled and tunable dimension, making it an attractive material for water treatment and various applications. The process reduces production costs by 3,000 times compared to previous methods.
After surviving a heart attack, women are experiencing greater declines in recurrent events than men. Despite improvements, the rate of recurrent heart attacks and death remains high among survivors.
A team of scientists has developed a free-space optical transmission system that relies on an optical amplifier without excess noise, achieving unprecedented error-free sensitivity of one photon-per-information-bit at 10.5 Gbit/s. The system operates at room temperature and is scalable to higher data rates.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki developed a technique that models visual perception by monitoring human brain signals, allowing computers to generate new information and create images matching users' intentions. The accuracy of this method was 83% in an experiment where participants focused on certain features.
A team of researchers adapted standard epidemiological models to explore how COVID-19 pandemic trajectories might unfold in the next five years. Their work emphasizes the importance of understanding adaptive immune responses and vaccine efficacy in determining future case severity and duration.