The UCSC-led research center aims to understand the basic biological mechanisms of botanical natural products and address challenges in studying their variability and clinical trial design. The center will use innovative screening platforms to measure the effects of complex botanical natural products on cells.
Army researchers have developed a new way to protect and safeguard quantum information, allowing for more efficient and secure communication. By understanding and removing certain types of noise in quantum channels, the team can convert bad noise into good noise with the addition of a cheap extra component.
Researchers have discovered an unusual pulsar in a binary system with two neutron stars of different masses, which could provide vital clues about unsolved mysteries in astrophysics. The discovery, published in Nature, sheds light on the expansion rate of the Universe and the nature of exotic matter that makes up neutron star interiors.
A new precision gene editor for mitochondrial DNA has been developed, allowing scientists to make targeted changes without the need for CRISPR technology. This breakthrough could enable researchers to study rare diseases and basic mitochondrial biology in animals.
Researchers used a new method to understand how corals' symbiotic algae respond to warmer temperatures. They found thermally tolerant algae adopt a 'shelter-in-place' strategy, storing fats and carbohydrates to persist through stress.
A Shinshu University research team has successfully cultivated microalgae using a novel mechanical milking system, overcoming three major cultivation challenges. This non-destructive method enables the efficient production of valuable compounds like polysaccharides and phycobiliproteins without solvent extraction.
A team of researchers from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia used a new method to pinpoint potential disease-causing changes in the genome and identified two new potential therapeutic targets for lupus. The study focused on follicular helper T cells and created three-dimensional maps that match variants with genes they likely regulate.
A recent study published in Obesity found that children who are relatively tall for their age have a significantly higher risk of developing obesity. The study examined the health records of over 2.8 million children and found that taller individuals were more likely to have a higher body mass index than shorter children.
Cyanobacteria construct organelles to convert CO2 into sugar through a complex process involving Rubisco enzymes and chaperone proteins. A recent study reveals the crucial role of Raf1 protein in assembling Rubisco complexes, improving carboxysome function.
A new study published in Pediatrics finds that a community development initiative in Columbus, Ohio's Southern Orchards neighborhood reduced emergency department visits by 20.8% and inpatient admissions by 12.7%. The improvement is attributed to housing improvements and other interventions.
Swansea University researchers have reported a record efficiency of 12.2% for four layers of roll-to-roll printed perovskite solar cells (PSCs), marking a significant step towards commercialization. This achievement utilizes the advantages of slot-die coating, which provides controlled wet film thickness and efficient material usage.
Scientists have discovered that a steroidal sex hormone, ecdysone, drastically alters intestinal stem cell behavior, affecting gut growth and function. The study found that ecdysone stimulates stem cell growth and causes the gut to grow in size, leading to changes in its structure and function.
Researchers developed a stable 'mirror-image' peptide that effectively blocks the interaction between TIGIT and its ligand PVR, inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis. This approach offers an alternative point of attack for cancer immunotherapy, potentially outperforming existing anti-PD-1 therapy.
Researchers have successfully produced porous, nitrogen-containing graphene ribbons exhibiting semiconducting properties, which is essential for their potential applications in electronics. These new materials could display extraordinary magnetic properties, making them suitable for quantum computing applications.
A large-scale study found that young women with few eggs collected during IVF treatment have a higher risk of age-related diseases, including cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. This increased risk is associated with early ovarian ageing and may be linked to an accelerated ageing process.
A recent study analyzing 10 years of HPV-vaccine related Facebook posts reveals that anti-vaxxers have gained a stronger voice against the use of the human papillomavirus vaccine. Negative posts displayed a 45% increase in public engagement, with some showing negative views on vaccine safety and effectiveness.
Starting at age 25 prevented marginally more deaths, but with more testing and emotional stress. All annual screening approaches save lives, with a combined approach of both breast MRI and mammography beginning at age 25 preventing the most deaths.
Tofersen, an experimental drug for a rare inherited form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), has shown early promise in a phase 1/phase 2 clinical trial. The study found that the drug is generally well-tolerated and lowers levels of a disease-causing protein in people with SOD1 ALS.
A new study evaluates the PortionSize app, which analyzes pictures of users' meals to provide accurate calorie consumption. The app aims to overcome challenges in self-reporting methods and 'portion distortion', offering an affordable solution for weight management.
A new clinical trial has tested a cocktail of chemotherapy drugs for patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer, showing a median survival time of 14.5 months and a 1-year survival rate of 60.9%. The treatment strategy involves injections of paclitaxel into the abdomen and gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel into the blood.
A new study identifies key steps toward establishing nurse- and midwife-led HIV services in eastern and southern Africa, including improved training, supportive supervision, and formal mentorship programs. The region has shown remarkable progress toward eliminating HIV, but challenges remain in providing effective antiretroviral therapy.
A recent study found that breast feeding during infancy reduces lower limb fracture risk, while maternal smoking increases upper limb fracture risk in young adulthood. Exposures during fetal development and early life have lasting effects on bone health.
A team of computer scientists developed a novel method for simulating yarn-cloth patterns, accurately capturing the physics of fabrics including stretching and bending response. The technique enables faster and more accurate simulations of knitted and woven materials while preserving material properties.
A new Hastings Center special report critiques the role of genomics in perpetuating racism and inequality. The report argues that genomic knowledge can thwart medicine's advancement of justice and create new forms of social classification and surveillance.
Researchers at the University of South Carolina are developing a de-identified linked database system and mobile app to track COVID-19 transmission, progression, and clinical outcomes. The system will leverage machine learning algorithms and integrate data from multiple sources, including social media and geospatial data.
The National Institutes of Health has established a new clinical trials network to enroll thousands of volunteers in large-scale clinical trials testing various COVID-19 vaccines and monoclonal antibodies. The COVPN will leverage existing infrastructure and engage communities to secure participants for late-stage clinical trials.
A bioartificial system can act as 'dialysis' for the liver in pigs with acute liver failure. The system, developed by Wei-Jian Li and colleagues, effectively detoxifies blood and prevents further liver damage.
Researchers analyzed medieval and modern case studies to identify restrictive soil and geologic conditions for tunneling. They found arid areas with low permanent water tables are most susceptible to successful tunneling, recommending monitoring for sound and vibrations to disrupt smugglers.
A recent article by the Society for Disaster Medicine and Public Health emphasizes the importance of understanding herd immunity in the context of COVID-19. The authors argue that traditional definitions of a 'case' are inadequate and propose using daily COVID hospital admissions as a more valid measure of the pandemic's medical impact.
A new study from the University of British Columbia found that people are 30% more likely to donate assets when faced with their own mortality, driven by a desire for symbolic immortality and transcendence. The study suggests that charitable organizations can use this insight to connect donors with lasting legacies.
A new study found that a simple blood test can accurately predict concussion severity and duration, similar to expensive and invasive spinal taps. The test measures neurofilament light chain levels in the blood, which correlate strongly with the severity of concussions.
A team of bioengineers and clinical experts from Brigham and Women's Hospital and MIT have developed a new, sustainable solution for health care workers to provide protection during the pandemic. The iMASC system is made from sterilizable materials and can fit faces of different sizes and shapes.
A team of international scientists discovered an asymmetrical double neutron star system, which could provide vital clues about the expansion rate of the universe. The finding uses the National Science Foundation's Arecibo Observatory's powerful radio telescope and builds upon a 2017 LIGO/Virgo discovery.
Small interfering RNA (siRNA) shows potential for treating human diseases by selectively silencing pathological pathways. The review examines siRNA therapeutics in preclinical and clinical trials, challenges faced in siRNA therapy, and the feasibility of combining siRNA with anticancer drugs.
Researchers at Northwestern University have synthesized a new form of melanin enriched with selenium, called selenomelanin, which shows promise as a shield for human tissue against harmful radiation. The new biomaterial offers better protection than traditional forms of melanin and has potential applications in space travel
A recent study has identified the precise spot in the brain where distracting stimuli are blocked, allowing concentration on a task. The researchers found that responses to distractor stimuli were abruptly suppressed beyond the sensory cortex, preventing further signal transmission within the cortex and triggering a motor response.
A new methodological guide developed by the University of the Basque Country aims to optimize radioactive waste management during nuclear facility dismantling. The project focuses on in situ measurements and characterizing strategies for constrained environments, aiming to improve dismantling processes and public perception.
A nationwide COVID-19 public health campaign in the Netherlands was associated with improved personal hygiene and physical distancing behaviors. The survey study found a significant increase in adherence to these behaviors, suggesting the campaign's effectiveness in promoting healthy habits during the pandemic.
A preliminary study suggests that the Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, commonly administered to children in high-tuberculosis countries, may reduce mortality rates from COVID-19. The study found a correlation between higher BCG vaccination rates and lower peak mortality rates from COVID-19 in various countries.
The article emphasizes the importance of climate resilience in urban energy systems to address climate change and extreme events. Nik and colleagues provide an overview of current progress in adapting urban energy systems to climate change, highlighting limitations in existing approaches.
Researchers used El Niño and Pacific Decadal Oscillation to predict coral bleaching and crown-of-thorns starfish events up to 5 months in advance, providing more time for proactive reef management. This tool may help islands become better equipped to handle these forces.
The discovery of the DRIK1 protein has opened up new avenues for developing more drought-resistant plants. By identifying a synthetic molecule that binds to the protein, researchers aim to breed plants with naturally reduced or inhibited activity, reducing losses related to climate change.
Two studies by European and US researchers found that higher consumption of these foods is associated with a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Increasing fruit and vegetable intake by 66 grams per day was linked to a 25% lower risk, while whole grain consumption was also significantly related to reduced disease risk.
Routine Hepatitis C testing at federally qualified health centers (FQHC) has been shown to improve diagnosis rates and health outcomes for people with HCV infections in the US. This approach is cost-effective compared to targeted testing, resulting in better health outcomes and reduced financial burden.
The STRIDE study found that a personalized approach to falls risk reduction resulted in an 8-10% reduction in serious fall injuries among older adults. However, potential barriers such as transportation availability and copayments may have contributed to the lesser effect size seen in the trial.
Photosynthetic bacteria have been engineered to produce spider silk, which is ultra-lightweight and as tough as steel. The discovery could lead to the mass production of sustainable materials such as tear-resistant clothing and biomedical applications.
Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys discovered that PRMT5 inhibitors can sensitize unresponsive melanoma to immune checkpoint therapy, enhancing antigen presentation and innate immunity. The study suggests that these inhibitors may also be effective in tumors of other types, providing a potential breakthrough for cancer treatment.
A global review of COVID-19 cases found neurological complications such as strokes, delirium, and inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. The study analyzed data from over 900 patients and highlights the need for doctors to recognize COVID-19's potential to cause devastating brain problems.
Researchers created a super white paint that reflects up to 98% of incoming solar radiation, potentially reducing indoor temperatures and air conditioner use by radiative cooling. The innovative paint formula replaces titanium oxide with barite and Teflon, offering improved reflectivity and reduced heat absorption.
A Texas A&M University report warns that the state will experience drier summers and decreasing water supplies for decades to come. The researchers predict that parts of West Texas will be hit hardest by drought conditions.
The Argonne team has created a machine learning algorithm that approximates how the present detector would respond to the greatly increased data expected with the LHC upgrade. This algorithm simulates detector responses and reconstructs objects from physical processes, enabling faster and more accurate analysis of particle collisions.
Duke University researchers have made time-lapse movies of the sheet-like latticework surrounding animal tissues, revealing dynamic movement within the matrix scaffolding. The study provides a new toolkit for studying basement membrane defects underlying tissue degeneration and diseases such as kidney disease and aging.
Researchers observed how indium oxide grows on graphene, revealing the importance of background pressure and temperature in the process. The study's findings have significant implications for predicting and controlling the integration of graphene with other materials.
A new study reveals that value-based incentive programs aimed at reducing health care-associated infections did not improve infection rates in either safety-net or non-safety-net hospitals. Safety-net hospitals continued to experience higher rates of health care-associated infections, highlighting persistent disparities in the healthca...
A study in rats demonstrates the bystander effect exists in non-human species. Rats were less likely to rescue a rodent in need when surrounded by incompetent helpers, but more likely to take action when fellow bystanders were willing helpers.
A new analysis of 71 studies with over 950,000 participants found significantly higher odds of knee osteoarthritis in physically demanding job titles such as farmers and builders.
Researchers at MIT have developed a computational model that analyzes factors such as particle size and shape to determine optimal design for injectability. The model achieved a sixfold increase in successful injection rates, paving the way for microparticle delivery of cancer immunotherapy drugs.
A team of researchers from Harvard SEAS developed materials that can control and mold a balloon into pre-programmed shapes using kirigami sheets. The system enables expansion in some places and constricting it in others, allowing for the creation of complex shapes.
Researchers at MIT have developed a hybrid process to manufacture and integrate 'artificial atoms' with photonic circuitry, producing the largest quantum chip of its type. The process enables scalable production of millions of quantum processors needed for quantum computers.
Researchers found that blocking the tumor-promoting protein MDM2 could boost immunotherapy's effectiveness by allowing immune cells to kill tumor cells more efficiently. The study also suggests that combining MDM2 inhibitors with immunotherapy may lead to improved treatment outcomes for patients whose tumors are predicted to undergo hy...