The National Science Foundation has awarded UVA a $1.2 million expansion of a grant to develop a secure, high-performance computing system for COVID-19 research. The system will provide access to protected health data for researchers across the nation.
Researchers analyzed zircon grains in Antarctic sandstones to determine their ages and chemical compositions, revealing two primary periods of increased average crustal thickness associated with volcanic chains. These findings suggest a causal link between plate tectonics and major transitions in Earth's atmosphere and oceans.
Scientists at IRB Barcelona have discovered a new type of hypermutation called mutation fog, which generates hundreds of mutations in every cell and accumulates in critical genome regions. This process is linked to normal DNA repair and APOBEC enzyme activity, suggesting it may be a major source of cancer mutations.
CloudSat captured areas of heavy rain and high-powered clouds during Tropical Storm Isaias' intensification into a hurricane. The satellite's advanced cloud-profiling radar provided new insights into the storm's vertical structure and contributed to improved global model representations.
Researchers used ultrafast pulsed laser techniques to investigate chemical separations, tracking dynamics of molecules designed to grab cobalt from solutions. The study reveals the essential role of hydrogen bonding in developing new extraction methodologies.
Researchers found 28 pesticides linked to mammary gland tumors, but EPA acknowledged only nine, highlighting the need for updated guidelines. The study also identified endocrine disruptors that can trigger breast cancer development.
Researchers at McMaster University isolated genes that cause some people to gain muscle while others don't through a novel experiment. A set of 141 genes regulates skeletal muscle growth, and isolating these genes may help target lifestyle and drug therapies to prevent muscle loss in older individuals.
A bottlenose dolphin calf found entangled in monofilament fishing line in the Indian River Lagoon suffered long-term damage to its maxillary bones, dentition, and soft tissues. The dolphin's body condition declined significantly after release, leading to death two years later.
A new grant will fund the research, which aims to develop an effective and efficient cleaning method for peanut butter processing facilities. The technology has the potential to reduce cleaning time by nearly a week and minimize the risk of Salmonella contamination in peanut butter production.
A team of researchers at Stanford University has made a breakthrough in developing a wireless brain-computer interface that can accurately control electronic prostheses using thoughts. The new technology uses a tenth of the power required by current wire-enabled systems, making it safer and more natural for patients with paralysis or n...
Researchers used computational models to examine how sleep encodes new memories while preventing damage to old ones. The study suggests that memories, even old ones, are dynamic and constantly updated during sleep, which helps prevent forgetting and increases recall performance.
Patients with severe COVID-19 symptoms showed improved outcomes when administered Interleukin-6 (IL6ri) inhibitors, such as sarilumab or tocilizumab, earlier in the disease course. This reduced mortality rates and the need for intubation, with a higher discharge rate among those treated early.
A large randomized clinical trial involving over 18,000 participants found no significant benefit from vitamin D supplementation in preventing depression or improving mood. The study's results confirm longstanding questions about the effectiveness of vitamin D in reducing depression risk.
A new species of red truffle was recently identified in Oregon, named Tuber luomae after researcher Dan Luoma who discovered it in 1981. The discovery was confirmed using DNA analysis and microscopic structures, revealing a unique species with limited geographic distribution.
A recent study published in Nature Communications reveals that an enzyme called HDAC3 plays a crucial role in regulating lung macrophage development and homeostasis. The research found that inhibiting this enzyme may provide a new therapeutic approach for treating lung cancer and inflammatory diseases in the airway.
A study developed by Colorado State University experts demonstrates the potential risks and various scenarios COVID-19 could pose for fire management. The model highlights the effectiveness of risk-mitigation strategies such as screening and social distancing measures in reducing infections.
Researchers found that carbonate-rich molten rock can alter the physical properties of rocks, affecting seismic waves. The study provides new insights into the elasticity, density, and compressibility of these rocks, potentially revealing a substantial carbon reservoir in the Earth's deep upper mantle.
A new study reveals nearly 20% more emperor penguin colonies in Antarctica, totaling 61 colonies worldwide. The discovery uses satellite images to locate the birds, which are vulnerable to climate change and loss of sea ice breeding habitat.
The ASBMB has received a five-year grant from NIGMS to support scientists from diverse backgrounds in preparing for independent careers. The MOSAIC program will provide professional development, mentoring, and networking opportunities to help diversify the professoriate.
A new model of screening combines better risk assessment, noninvasive testing options, and targeted referrals for colonoscopy to save more lives. The American Gastroenterological Association proposes a universal approach to screening that reaches more people and offers alternatives to colonoscopy.
A new study by CHOP sleep experts found that sleep disturbances at any age are associated with diminished well-being in children by 10 or 11 years old. Children with persistent sleep problems have the greatest impairments, while those with mild sleep problems over time also experience psychosocial impairments.
Two studies published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health journal highlight the importance of test-trace-isolate strategies for schools to safely reopen. Modelling the impact of UK schools reopening in September suggests that a second wave of COVID-19 can be avoided with high coverage of testing and contact tracing, while data from...
A study suggests that achieving Japan's plastic recycling targets will depend on collecting packaging waste from the food industry and households. The analysis reveals that it is possible to meet recycling targets if all feasible measures are implemented, but legislative action is hindered.
A team of scientists led by NTU Singapore has discovered parameters that determine the efficiency of spinel oxides as low-cost catalysts for water electrolysis. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient production of hydrogen fuel, a key component in a low-carbon economy.
A new study reveals that dog brains, like human brains, process speech in a hierarchical manner, with intonation processed at lower stages and word meanings at higher stages. The research used functional MRI to measure brain activity in awake dogs while they listened to praise words and unknown neutral words in different tones.
This study assesses telemedicine unreadiness among older adults in the US, using data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study. The results show that a significant proportion of older adults are unprepared to access video or telephone telemedicine due to disability or technology inexperience.
The study's three-dimensional reconstructions of Namapoikia fossils suggest that they were constructed by microbes, not animals. The results indicate a microbial construction, contradicting the long-held idea of calcifying sponge evolution.
A new study published in Disability & Society journal recommends a personal care system that focuses on high-quality personalised care building self-esteem and confidence in young people with disability. The research found that supporting workers to value the contributions of people with disability is a protective mechanism for both.
Research finds that corporate activism can have both positive and negative effects on a company's financial performance. Aligned values between the corporation and its stakeholders result in an increase of 8% in next-quarter sales growth and 12% in next-year sales growth. Misaligned values lead to a 2% stock decline.
Researchers identified thousands of potentially functional SNPs associated with changes in gene expression, highlighting the unique value of using iPSC-derived neurons as a model. The study advances understanding of genetic causes of neuropsychiatric disorders and offers a path to novel disease treatments.
A South Australian program to help victims of bullying and aggression has been adapted by several state education systems in Europe, showing positive results in Italy. The Preparation, Education, Action, Coping, Evaluation (PEACE) antibullying program produced a significant reduction in bullying and improvements in student wellbeing.
A new study found that half of low-income communities have no ICU beds, exacerbating COVID-19 mortality rates. The lack of access to critical care units compounds the impact of the virus on these communities, with higher infection rates and comorbidities increasing the risk of death.
A large international study analyzed genetic and clinical data from 4,444 MDS patients to assess the impact of TP53 gene mutations on cancer outcomes. The study found that having two mutated copies of TP53 led to worse outcomes, while one copy had similar effects as a non-mutated copy.
A German-French research team is developing a new sensor network to monitor ship emissions and improve the monitoring of pollutants in the marine environment. The project aims to provide a tool for observing the extent of pollution arising from ship collisions, affecting coastal populations' health.
A new study shows that physically fit patients are more likely to benefit from atrial fibrillation ablation, with a lower risk of recurrent arrhythmia and improved outcomes. The study found that high cardiorespiratory fitness can act as an antiarrhythmic medication, keeping patients in rhythm after the procedure.
Researchers at Yale University discovered how sarecycline's chemical structure makes it an effective antibiotic for treating acne. The study found that sarecycline binds to messenger RNA in bacterial ribosomes, blocking protein synthesis and boosting its effectiveness.
A new UCL study using brain imaging found that paying attention increases energy use in the brain, while diverting energy from unattended tasks. The brain has a hard limit on energy supply, which can lead to feelings of overwhelm and neglect of important information.
Emergency department visits plummeted by 41.5% in Colorado and 63.5% in New York as the public responded to social distancing messages during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite hospital admissions increasing, serious injuries and illnesses suffered undiagnosed or untreated
Studies of alpha-synuclein protein aggregates found variations in elongation rates and fibril structures, depending on cross-seeding and pH levels. High-speed atomic force microscopy enabled visualization of growth over time, shedding light on amyloid-related diseases.
Researchers call for integrated management strategy to combat Mimosa diplotricha's impact on crop yields, biodiversity, and local livelihoods. The invasive weed is threatening the region's agricultural productivity and socio-ecological balance.
A new study identifies 20 ways AI can be used to facilitate crime over the next 15 years, with fake content ranking highest in concern. The report highlights the potential for AI-powered crimes like deepfakes to erode trust in audio and visual evidence.
New research published in Nature Geoscience reveals that early Mars was covered in ice sheets, not flowing rivers. The study analyzed over 10,000 Martian valleys and found striking similarities with subglacial channels in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago.
Researchers discovered three stages of preservation: water transporting antimicrobial metal cations, followed by fiber swelling and inorganic crust formation, and gradual silicification. The study provides insight into nanoscale mineralization and its role in preserving ancient textiles.
Researchers have discovered that iron is internalised by CD44, a membrane protein known for its association with metastases. This allows cancer cells to acquire metabolites necessary for the metastatic state.
Researchers found that friendship with high-achievers has a positive impact on students' academic performance, while befriending underachievers can lead to a drop in grades. The study analyzed the social networks of 117 first-year students and used stochastic actor-based modeling to address the dynamics of social group members' behavior.
Researchers at CeMM developed a scalable strategy to discover novel molecular glue degraders, which can eliminate disease-causing proteins by targeting the cellular protein quality control system. The study identifies a set of novel compounds that induce the degradation of cyclin K, essential in many cancer types.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge discovered that G-quadruplexes form in regions of DNA rich in guanine, playing a role in transcription and driving tumour growth. The structures are prevalent within genes and genetic regions active in breast cancer cells.
Researchers analyzed the daily deal market to identify trade-offs made by both parties during transactions. Larger platforms can exert bargaining power, while smaller platforms offer higher profit shares to merchants, providing an alternative outlet for price negotiation.
Researchers at the University of Illinois compared two composite manufacturing methods, frontal polymerization and bulk polymerization. Frontal polymerization, a new out-of-autoclave method, offers several advantages, including reduced capital investment, faster curing times, and lower environmental impact.
A new study by Flinders University researchers highlights the importance of sustainable food choices, which not only benefit individuals but also the environment. The study found that people who participate in community gardening or local food swaps experience improved mental health and social connections.
Researchers found that early adversity in wild female baboons elevated glucocorticoid levels by up to 14% in adulthood. The study suggests that early experiences of adversity and social relationships have independent effects on adult stress responses.
A recent study published in the Journal of Planning Education and Research found that demolishing dilapidated houses can lead to nearby property owners improving their own homes. The study examined changes to house conditions over time and found that properties near demolitions showed fewer signs of deterioration.
Research reveals that a marketing claim of reducing negative product properties can be interpreted in two ways, leading to improved or negative evaluations. Consumers with an incremental mindset view these claims positively, while those with an entity mindset perceive them negatively.
A new study at Carnegie Mellon University found that language biases against women can undermine their chances of advancing in science and tech. The research, published in Nature Human Behavior, suggests that linguistic associations may be causally related to people's implicit judgement of what women can accomplish.
Scientists have engineered antiviral compounds that can neutralize several types of coronaviruses, including COVID-19 and MERS. These compounds showed strong activity against SARS-CoV-2 and improved survival rates in mice infected with MERS.
Tropical Storm Isaias is expected to bring heavy rain and flash flooding to the US East Coast, with NASA tracking its movement and intensity using visible and water vapor imagery. The storm's center was located near latitude 30.2 degrees north and longitude 80.1 degrees west, with estimated minimum central pressure of 994 millibars.
A new study found that inflammation in the olfactory system, triggered by environmental toxins, may contribute to the development of Parkinson's disease. Deposits of alpha-synuclein protein were found in areas where olfactory neurons project, and mice with similar defects showed signs of PD-like behaviors.
Deborah Lang's research aims to discover innovative treatments for melanoma by targeting molecular pathways involved in normal cell development. The grant will support her study on the role of YAP and TAZ genes in melanoma progression.
Researchers propose empirical bioethics studies to address unique ethical challenges in COVID-19 management, including resource allocation and patient rights. The studies aim to provide a body of evidence describing these challenges and informing interventions.
Researchers have found that transferrin, a glycoprotein, may critically contribute to severe COVID-19 by increasing blood clotting risk. The study, published in Diagnostics, suggests that transferrin could serve as a biomarker for early identification of high-risk patients.