A study found that women with a rare genetic variant in the KCNG4 gene have a higher pain threshold, allowing them to experience less pain during childbirth. The researchers believe this variant acts like a natural epidural, requiring stronger contractions to switch on pain signals.
A new Boston University School of Public Health and School of Medicine study finds that genetic risk factors for dementia can be lowered by improving cardiovascular health. Participants with a high genetic risk score were 2.6 times more likely to develop dementia, but those with good cardiovascular health were half as likely.
A study published in Neuron reveals how normal brain network function of hippocampus cells, which works to discriminate a distinct spatial environment, is disrupted in Alzheimer's disease. The disruption is likely caused by the activity impairment of the entorhinal cortex.
Researchers found that adding green tea extract to a film-forming substance killed norovirus and two types of bacteria. The study suggests that edible films with antimicrobial agents, like green tea extract, could lower the risk of norovirus transmission through contaminated food.
Researchers from the University of Seville have developed a system that uses deep learning to identify COVID-19 patients using lung X-ray images. The system achieves around 100% accuracy in identifying COVID-19 and can help reduce health professionals' workload by filtering out negative cases.
A new study published by The Endocrine Society found that cinnamon supplementation lowered abnormal fasting glucose levels and improved response to eating carbohydrates. Cinnamon was well-tolerated without adverse effects.
Researchers created a photonic Floquet topological insulator in a periodically driven fractal lattice, exhibiting topological edge states with real-space Chern number 1. The simulations show wavepackets can propagate along the outer and inner edges without penetration or backscattering.
Using a weather-based decision support system can significantly improve Cercospora leaf spot control in table beet by reducing unnecessary fungicide applications. The approach also helps minimize the risk of resistance development due to single-site modes of action.
Researchers have developed a tiny, flexible scope that can provide high-quality 3D images inside blood vessels, enabling better understanding of heart attack causes and progression. The device's miniaturization could lead to improved treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease.
A new analysis of SARS-CoV-2 transmission data in China shows that faster identification and isolation of infected individuals contributed to the shortening of the average serial interval over time. This indicates that isolation effectively limits COVID-19 transmission by reducing opportunities for viral transmission.
A new study found that delays in cancer diagnosis due to the pandemic could result in more than 1,000 excess deaths in England. The researchers suggest prioritizing certain tumor types and ramping up diagnostic capacity to mitigate the impact of these delays.
Scientists found that ultra-small, parasitic bacteria from the TM7 phylum are present in humans, moose, dogs, cats, dolphins, and groundwater. Despite their diverse environments, these bacteria have minimally changed genomes, indicating recent acquisition by humans.
A new study has successfully demonstrated a method for site-directed mutagenesis in wheat using haploid induction by maize. The technique resulted in the identification of 15 independent target gene-specific mutants in six different wheat backgrounds, with mutations found in all three genomic target motifs.
Researchers created a hybrid virus that targets cells like SARS-CoV-2 but lacks severe disease genes. The hybrid virus can be handled under ordinary laboratory safety conditions, making it ideal for high-throughput analyses.
Wenliang Li, a postdoctoral researcher at William & Mary, is studying proton structure from a new angle using Jefferson Lab's 12 GeV electron beam. He's examining particles that fly backward in the interaction to learn more about proton structure.
Tropical Depression 7E is weakening due to wind shear and cool ocean waters. The storm has lost all deep convection, with only a small patch of clouds remaining.
The Community Water Model is a large-scale hydrological and water resources model that simulates global and regional water availability. It considers various sectors' demands and environmental needs, providing insights into the impact of climate change on water supply.
Researchers have shown that when one optic nerve is damaged, the opposite optic nerve shares its metabolic energy with the brain. This sharing process helps explain how neurodegeneration spreads between brain regions in diseases like glaucoma and Alzheimer's disease.
The new Q-SEnSE center will explore grand challenges in quantum sensing, measurement science, and advancing real-world technologies. Researchers will partner with engineers to turn advancements into practical applications, educating the next generation of quantum workforce.
The study finds that US and Chinese scientists are intensifying their collaborations, producing over 1,600 articles in the first four months of 2020. China has become the world leader in funding coronavirus research since COVID-19 was discovered.
A new study published in the Journal of Vascular Surgery found that the Ellipsys System created durable vascular access for ESRD patients who require hemodialysis, with a patency rate of 96% after one year. This minimally invasive procedure reduces reliance on riskier vascular access options and improves patient safety.
Researchers created nanophotonic cavities in a nanopatterned InGaAsP membrane, exhibiting photonic analogue of valley-Hall effect. The structure supports quantized spectrum of modes confined to the domain wall, enabling topologically controlled ultrathin light sources.
A novel genetic measure called gSOS has been developed to assess fracture risk in osteoporosis, which could reduce the need for bone mineral density tests by 37-41%. This cost-effective approach may improve healthcare efficiency and identify individuals at higher risk of diseases like cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Scientists developed a new 2D material to produce hydrogen from fresh, salt, and polluted water by exposing it to sunlight. The material efficiently generates 0.5 liters of hydrogen in an hour from 100 square centimeters, making it one of the highest rates recorded for 2D materials.
Astronomers have discovered a lost planet, NGTS-11b, which orbits a star 620 light years away and is located five times closer to its sun than Earth. The discovery brings astronomers closer to finding cooler planets in the habitable 'Goldilocks zone' that can support liquid water.
A clinical trial by Newcastle University found that levothyroxine does not improve cardiac function in patients who have had a heart attack and are suffering from mild or subclinical hypothyroidism. The treatment, which is commonly recommended for these patients, may actually be of no benefit.
A Vanderbilt University Medical Center study found that post-surgical bleeding is associated with a higher mortality rate compared to blood clots. The researchers analyzed nearly 15 years of data on millions of patients and found that bleeding had a consistent signal for mortality, while blood clots did not.
A study published in Academic Emergency Medicine found that only a few key signs and symptoms significantly change the likelihood of community-acquired pneumonia. The study suggests prioritizing high-value elements of the physical examination to improve diagnostic accuracy and antibiotic use.
A team of researchers has identified a cellular mechanism that inhibits the signal to proliferate and starves malignant cells, leading to their death. The study uses a sea sponge-derived molecule XeB to block calcium ion transport, impacting cancer cell metabolism and leading to high cell death rates.
Scientists have identified unique de novo DNA methylation targets for DNMT3 enzymes during mammalian development. Dnmt3a exclusively regulates differentiation-related genes, while dnmT3b regulates X-chromosome genes. The study's findings may lead to a novel therapeutic approach for patients with DNMT3 mutations.
Researchers at Kyoto University discovered a novel method of communication among cells using 'mechano-chemical' signals. The findings show that the movement of one cell can trigger a cascading reaction resulting in collective cell migration.
A recent study published in PLOS Medicine found a significant increase in heat-related cardiovascular hospitalizations in Queensland, Australia between 1995 and 2016. The daily mean temperature in the region rose from 20.9°C to 21.7°C, leading to an increase in annual cardiovascular hospitalizations from 46,730 to 123,477.
ESC Congress 2020 presented over 400 topics covering the entire spectrum of cardiology, including late-breaking science studies, clinical trials, and ESC Guidelines. The event featured four new Clinical Practice Guidelines launched live during the congress.
Research finds microplastics in deep-sea shrimp do not affect their health, despite high concentrations. The study suggests that shrimp can eliminate ingested fibers through exoskeleton shedding.
A study published in The Lancet Public Health found that nearly 60% of US parents of unvaccinated adolescents have no intention to initiate the HPV vaccine series. Healthcare providers play a crucial role in addressing parental misconceptions and ensuring series completion.
Researchers studied leech reproduction and found that EE2 had little impact on abundance but some effects on gonad size. Leeches may be less sensitive to endocrine disrupting compounds than previously thought.
The Predictive Safety Testing Consortium and Duchenne Regulatory Science Consortium have developed a glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH) biomarker to detect drug-induced liver injury in patients with inherited muscle disorders. The FDA has agreed to accept the Qualification Plan for GLDH as an important and accurate measurement of DILI.
Researchers have identified key biological insights that may help solve the mystery of what drives PAH and why a new therapy in clinical trials may work. The fusion protein is more effective than vasodilators at treating PAH and preventing blood vessel remodeling, restoring a normal balance between cell proliferation and death.
Researchers at the University of Bath developed a non-invasive markerless system using computer vision and deep learning to measure velocity and estimate poses. The new technology provides accurate tracking of skeleton athletes' performance, improving training sessions and potentially leading to Olympic gold medal wins.
Experiences of racism among African Americans are associated with lower subjective cognitive function and increased risks of depression, poor sleep, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension. Research from the Black Women's Health Study found that women reporting higher levels of daily and institutional racism had a greater risk of poor SCF.
A study by Physicians for a National Health Program found that nearly 25% of US dwellings are unsuitable for isolation or quarantine due to lack of space and plumbing facilities. This is particularly concerning among minority and low-income households, which have faced high rates of COVID-19 illness and death.
Computer simulations revealed that Venus' coronae topography depends on crust thickness and magma activity, classifying over 100 large coronae into active and inactive groups. The 'Ring of Fire' in Venus' southern hemisphere is a zone expelling high levels of rising plume material.
Research reveals a complex interaction between bacteria and their viruses in the gut, where some bacteria can resist infection while others remain susceptible. The study suggests that beneficially altering the gut microbiome through bacterial viruses could offer a new treatment for disease.
Research at The University of Tokyo found that influenza virus-infected macrophages release oxidized DNA, which activates the NLRP3 inflammasome and increases IL-1β secretion. Inhibition of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species decreased this secretion, providing a link between viral proteins and inflammasome activation.
A Purdue University team, led by Gaurav Chopra and Riyi Shi, received a $1.3 million grant to develop biomarkers and treatments for traumatic brain injury-related Alzheimer's disease and dementia. The researchers aim to improve understanding of microglial cell states in the context of TBI-related neurodegenerative dementia.
Researchers found that baby blacktip reef sharks can tolerate the extreme conditions of their nurseries, but these environments face an uncertain future due to climate change. The habitats' dramatic temperature and oxygen fluctuations can be a strain on the young sharks.
The study captures the spike protein's shape change, showing how it can fuse with host membranes without ACE2 receptor binding. The researchers propose two conformational changes: one dependent on ACE2 and another independent.
Scientists from CNRS and University of Nantes have developed a mathematical model to predict the risk of epidemic emergence based on seasonal factors. The 'winter is coming' effect suggests that pathogens introduced before unfavorable winter periods are less likely to cause large epidemics.
A new study from the University of Pittsburgh's Rehab Neural Engineering Labs has repurposed spinal cord stimulators to provide sensory feedback to amputees, generating sensations such as touch and pressure. The devices were found to be stable and effective in restoring feelings of touch in users.
Scientists propose a concept of temporal metamaterials that change permittivity tensor in time, demonstrating forward and backward waves with preserved wave vector and frequency changes. This enables real-time beam steering of electromagnetic energy, opening new possibilities for integrated photonic systems.
Researchers found a significant link between well depth and seismic probability, suggesting that deeper wells are more likely to trigger earthquakes. The study also revealed that the type of fluid used in hydraulic fracturing, including gel vs. slickwater operations, may affect seismic activity.
A new approach uses photons to perform computations required by neural networks, improving speed and efficiency. Photonic tensor cores can process data in parallel, reducing power consumption and increasing throughput.
Physicians using a holographic display developed by WashU were more accurate in performing cardiac ablation procedures, resulting in fewer lesions outside the target area. The technology allows physicians to control the procedure with hand-free and sterile gestures.
The study found that spider monkeys use a collective computation approach to determine team sizes for foraging, taking into account the opinions of their group mates. The collective effects produce a range of team sizes that work well given the availability of fruiting trees in their forest.
A recent study published in PLOS Medicine found that stepping down asthma medication doses did not increase exacerbations and can significantly reduce costs. The research suggests that clinicians may be prescribing higher levels of treatment than is clinically indicated, highlighting the potential for cost savings.
A survey of UK households found a substantial decline in mental health from before the pandemic into the first month of lockdown. The average level of mental distress increased, with over one quarter of participants reporting clinically significant levels of distress.
A study published by Norwegian University of Science and Technology found that mindfulness training can effectively help men manage their anger and reduce violent behavior towards their partners. The treatment group showed a significant decline in physical violence, from 85% to 10%, after completing the program.
Researchers found rural communities experiencing high rates of firearm suicides are often diverse and have collective environmental risk factors. The study's findings support a broader public health approach that targets interventions in high-risk areas to reduce gun suicides and opioid deaths.
Researchers aim to reduce bleeding time for soldiers on the battlefield by developing synthetic platelet substitutes that can be easily transported and stored. The technology, which involves freeze-drying artificial platelets into a powder, could potentially address blood shortages and improve treatment outcomes in emergency situations.
A recent study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that pregnancy and birth outcomes for women with SARS-CoV-2 infection were similar across different racial and ethnic groups, defying previous expectations of disparate treatment. Researchers attribute this finding to close follow-up care implemented by the medical center.