A recent study published in Nature Genetics has shed light on the genetic diversity of European flint maize, revealing distinct differences between lines. The research highlights the importance of sequencing the entire pangenome of a species to fully understand its genetics.
The MU Sinclair School of Nursing is providing assistance to over 500 Missouri nursing homes, distributing personal protective equipment (PPE) and offering recommendations for infection control practices. This helps nursing home residents stay safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on isolating sick patients and supporting staff.
A new paper by Michael Price and James Holland Jones suggests that economic choices can be guided by evolutionary principles, such as diversifying to reduce risk. By keeping a mix of goats and camels, a Kenyan herder increases the odds of household survival, which is essential for long-term persistence.
A national cost-sharing cap on insulin can help reduce the financial burden on families of children and young adults with type 1 diabetes. The study found that approximately 60% of patients would benefit from a $25 cap, with average savings of almost $480 per year.
Hurricane Douglas passed close to Hawaii, bringing strong surf, heavy rains, and gusty winds. NASA's Terra satellite imagery showed the storm's track and center stayed just off shore from the islands.
Researchers analyzed intrinsic water-use efficiencies in two populations of the drought-deciduous shrub Encelia farinosa. The study found that individual shrubs exhibit significant plasticity in response to climate change, rather than population-level adaptation.
Scientists have experimentally realized amorphous photonic topological insulators, which exhibit robust topological edge states despite lack of periodic atomic lattices. The discovery opens up new avenues for realizing non-periodic photonic topological materials for novel photonic devices.
The ESMO Virtual Congress 2020 will deliver a scientific programme featuring the presentation of latest cancer research results. More than 2100 abstracts will be included, including around 100 expected late-breaking abstracts.
A new study by University of Exeter researchers suggests that higher-end normal blood platelet counts may be indicative of an increased risk of cancer, particularly in older males. The research found a significant correlation between high platelet levels and the development of lung and colorectal cancers.
SmartNoter Inc.'s patented Convergent Learning solution provides an interactive, personalized learning experience by leveraging the power of the Internet and multimedia.
Researchers at NIST have doubled the size of a reference library containing oligosaccharides found in milk, helping scientists identify unknown compounds. The expanded library includes examples from human and nonhuman mammalian milk samples, supporting infant formula development and human health research.
A significant number of people living with hepatitis B and C infections across Europe remain undiagnosed, hindering progress towards the Sustainable Development Goal for health. Effective testing strategies and linkage to care can help prevent transmission and improve health outcomes.
A new study analyzing 40 years of Framingham Heart Study data found an association between lowered rates of hip fractures and decreases in smoking and heavy drinking. The study suggests that modifiable lifestyle factors may be beneficial to bone health, along with treatments.
Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in three-dimensional photonic topological phases, enabling the realization of lossless waveguides and robust control of electromagnetic waves. The advancements in topological photonics are set to diversify into nonlinearity, non-Hermiticity, and higher-dimensions.
A study has identified a genetic synergy that can cause cancer cell death, which can be replicated by a drug-like molecule and exploited for therapy. The findings suggest that FEN1, a gene involved in DNA replication and repair, has synthetic lethal interactions with BRCA-mutant cells.
Researchers created a self-healing polymer that mimics squid ring teeth, enabling fast and efficient repair of soft robotic actuators. The material can heal within one second, regaining its original strength and being fully biodegradable and recyclable.
A newly discovered CoO-TiO2 compound effectively stops listeria monocytogenes reproduction in both light and dark conditions, offering a potential solution for controlling bacterial contamination in food products.
The SoundWear device uses sound augmentation to expand children's play experience, triggering imagination and distinct play behaviors. It also helps children gain a sense of achievement and ownership towards sound.
A team of researchers at West Virginia University has uncovered the manipulative qualities of a fungal parasite that infects cicadas, allowing it to transmit disease effectively. The fungus, Massospora, tricks male cicadas into mimicking female behavior, luring in unsuspecting males and eventually infecting them.
A two-year observational pilot study found that remote monitoring of post-operative lung transplant patients significantly reduced hospital stays and readmissions by 44% and 66%, respectively. The study also showed a significant reduction in hospital costs, with an average savings of $132,000 per patient per year.
New research suggests that governments need to understand public priorities before rolling out track and trace apps, with privacy being a top consideration for only one group of people. The study found that promoting societal benefits over individual health benefits is more effective in achieving mass acceptance.
Researchers reveal a novel paradigm in EBV-associated gastric cancer where the viral genome alters the host epigenetic landscape, promoting proto-oncogene activation and tumorigenesis. The 'enhancer infestation' model identifies a new mechanism of cancer development that does not require genetic alterations.
A study published in Global Change Biology found that mountain stoneflies can tolerate warmer water temperatures at least temporarily. The insects may even be stressed in their current extremely cold environments, contradicting the prevailing theory that rising water temperatures will be devastating for them.
A team of researchers at North Carolina State University has identified a microRNA, miR-218-5p, that enhances the molecular pathway responsible for promoting hair follicle growth. The study found that increasing miR-218-5p promoted hair regrowth in mice treated with 3D cultured dermal papilla cells.
A recent study on ginkgoes found that they can 'escape senescence at the whole-plant level,' raising questions about the apparent lack of aging in centuries-old trees. However, plant biologist Sergi Munné-Bosch argues that these organisms still undergo physiological stress associated with senescence.
Researchers evaluated SARS-CoV-2 presence in myocardial tissue from COVID-19 autopsy cases, finding a significant association between the two conditions. The study suggests that COVID-19 may be linked to an increased risk of cardiac complications.
Researchers have decoded the European maize genome, revealing significant differences in genetic content and genome structure compared to North American lines. These findings suggest that heterosis, a phenomenon increasing crop yields, may be influenced by variations in knob regions and gene regulation.
Researchers have discovered a new pathway that could potentially treat heart failure, with the ability to alter SERCA, a key enzyme in the heart's contraction process. A new model has also been developed to predict the impact of heart muscle cells on heart function after injury.
Scientists have created a technique for precise nanoparticle trapping using metamaterials, overcoming size restrictions and enabling long-term stability. This breakthrough has far-reaching potential for biomedical science applications, including cancer research and imaging.
Researchers developed a novel two-step targeting strategy to selectively deliver therapies to the brain by exploiting the high impermeability of the BBB. This approach allows for specific brain targeting with minimal accumulation in peripheral organs, paving the way for increased clinical translation of nanoparticle-based therapies.
Researchers investigated the potential therapeutic effects of dipyridamole on severely ill patients with COVID-19. The study found that dipyridamole supplementation significantly decreased D-dimer concentrations and improved clinical outcomes in comparison to control patients, suggesting its anticoagulation and antiviral effects.
Researchers at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore have developed a new, rapid COVID-19 diagnostic test that can produce results in just 36 minutes. The portable test works for other viruses like dengue and can be used in low-resource settings.
Men with higher incomes are at increased risk of developing high blood pressure due to lifestyle factors such as obesity and excessive alcohol consumption. In contrast, women with higher household income tend to have a lower risk of developing high blood pressure.
Researchers found no evidence that face coverings lead to a false sense of security and may even encourage better hand hygiene practices. The study suggests that policymakers should prioritize face covering mandates to reduce transmission of SARS-CoV-2, as the risks are minimal while the potential impact is important.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Guam found that cycad plants share nitrogen and carbon through the soil, creating habitable environments for other organisms.
A study of 782 COVID-19 positive and 7,025 negative patients found low plasma 25(OH)D levels to be an independent risk factor for COVID-19 infection and hospitalization. The association was strongest among older adults, with two peak age groups showing increased risk: 25 and 50 years old.
Scientists studying CO-covered Pt(111) electrodes found that carbon monoxide can induce structural degradation under benign conditions. The presence of vacancies in the topmost Pt layer contributes to this effect.
A comprehensive blueprint for Saudi Arabia's national wind energy strategy has been developed, aiming to reach 16 gigawatts of installed capacity by 2030. The plan leverages high-resolution modeling, unique wind and weather observations, and cost analysis to guide the optimal buildout of wind turbines.
A high-resolution climate simulation reveals significantly increased precipitation over the monsoon trough due to global warming, driven by tropical disturbances and enhanced water vapor. The study also found distinct trends in water vapor and a stronger effect of global sea surface temperature increases on precipitation.
Researchers validate sEH enzyme inhibition to reduce neuroinflammation, improve endogen response and neuronal damage in Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests sEH as a new therapeutic target with potential implications for other inflammatory pathologies.
A new study by UNLV political science professor Tiffiany Howard finds that Black business ownership is crucial for achieving economic parity and closing the racial wealth gap. Despite incremental growth, Black-owned businesses continue to lag behind others in terms of market share.
Researchers developed a scalable quantum state verification (QSV) method for entangled states using nonadaptive local measurements. The results demonstrate the efficiency and precision of QSV in characterizing quantum states, particularly for multipartite entangled states.
Researchers have discovered a new broad-spectrum method to treat human herpes viruses by targeting their physical properties rather than proteins. This approach prevents genes from leaving the virus and infecting cells, making it effective against resistant strains.
A team of Boston College researchers has developed a new approach to create synthetic layered magnets by manipulating non-magnetic atoms in chromium halides. This method enables tuning of magnetic properties, opening up new avenues for creating exotic magnets and innovative technologies.
A Phase III vaccine trial will be conducted at UC San Diego, recruiting up to 500 participants to assess the efficacy and immunogenicity of a Moderna-developed vaccine. The trial aims to demonstrate the vaccine's ability to prevent COVID-19 and severe symptoms, with results expected by end of year.
Researchers investigate how excessive exercise affects emotional states in people with eating disorders, aiming to develop personalized interventions. The study also seeks to understand individual differences in triggering excessive exercise and its impact on recovery duration.
Researchers have developed a tandem catalytic system that converts carbon dioxide to methanol with high activity and selectivity at low temperatures. By encapsulating multiple molecular catalysts in nanoporous metal-organic frameworks, the team achieved efficient transformation and recyclability of the catalysts.
A team of scientists at MIT and elsewhere has determined that a family of oddball meteorites likely came from an early planetesimal with a magnetic core. The discovery suggests that the diversity of the earliest objects in the solar system may have been more complex than previously thought.
Allison Redlich and Jodi Quas are studying the best ways to question victims of human trafficking through an anonymous survey of law enforcement's experiences. They aim to identify gaps in knowledge that can be addressed via additional resources.
Researchers identified TLR7 as an essential player in the immune response against SARS-CoV-2. Mutations in this gene can lead to severe illness, highlighting a potential link between genetic factors and COVID-19 severity.
A recent study by the FDNY World Trade Center Health Program found that emergency medical service responders and firefighters in New York experienced a significant increase in medical leave during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study compared this period to earlier times, highlighting the impact of the pandemic on these workers' health.
A new study found elevated levels of transforming growth factor beta-induced protein (TGFBIp) in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, correlating with disease severity. The research suggests TGFBIp could serve as a viable therapeutic target to treat severe inflammation and cytokine storms in patients with severe COVID-19.
Researchers found 43% of Staphylococcus bacteria on exercise equipment were ampicillin-resistant, with 73% resistant to multiple drugs. Regular disinfection is crucial to maintain public health and prevent infections in communal areas.
A survey study in Italy explored individuals' knowledge, concerns, and behaviors regarding COVID-19. Key findings revealed significant variations in awareness, risk perception, and adherence to protective measures across different exposure zones.
A researcher at Northern Arizona University is developing small, inexpensive drones that can observe, understand and adapt to changing environments on their own. The goal is to enable these drones to perform complex missions, such as surveying in disaster areas and coordinating with other autonomous vehicles.
Researchers at Skoltech have designed a photosensitive bismuth complex that can be used as an advanced optically triggered material for memory devices. The device can switch between two quasi-stable electrical states in response to light and electric bias, enabling high-density data recording.
A meta-analysis of over 3,000 specimens found that sputum testing detected the COVID-19 virus at significantly higher rates than other methods. Early testing also increased rates of diagnosis. The study suggests that sputum testing could be a valuable method for diagnosing and monitoring COVID-19 patients.
Researchers discovered a rare single gene mutation in a patient that eliminated an immune cell population, namely MAIT cells. The study demonstrates the impact of a single gene mutation on the human immune system and advances personalized medicine.
Tropical Storm Hanna is consolidating and intensifying as it heads toward the Texas coast. The storm's minimum central pressure has increased to near 1000 millibars, with sustained winds of up to 45 mph.
Researchers found seaweed extracts to be more effective than remdesivir in blocking SARS-CoV-2 infection in mammalian cells. The decoy strategy involves locking onto a similar molecule on the surface of human cells, trapping and degrading the virus.