Cornell University chemists have developed a new polymer that degrades by ultraviolet radiation, reducing persistent plastic accumulation in the environment. The material, isotactic polypropylene oxide, has mechanical properties comparable to commercial fishing gear and can break down on a realistic time scale.
Scientists at the University of Tokyo have successfully demonstrated a method to switch a novel material between two different nonvolatile states at very high speeds and with great accuracy. This breakthrough finding has potential applications in creating high-speed memory devices that are also energy-efficient.
Astronomers discovered unusually high levels of carbon monoxide in the gas emitted by comet 2I/Borisov, which likely formed in an extremely cold environment. The comet's composition may indicate a different formation process than solar system comets, shedding light on the birthplace of another planetary system.
A Washington University engineer has received a grant to develop a rapid and highly sensitive COVID-19 test using the new biolabeling technology called plasmonic-fluor. The test is expected to be 100 times more sensitive than traditional methods, allowing for earlier diagnosis and reducing false negatives.
A team of Wake Forest researchers, led by Gloria Muday, is working on a $3 million grant from the National Science Foundation to find heat-tolerant tomatoes. The goal is to map out how reproductive genes work in these varieties, which can help breed or engineer dependable crops despite rising global temperatures.
Experiments simulate conditions of Neptune-like exoplanets, suggesting mutual solubility between silica and water. This finding challenges traditional views on the distinction between rock and ice, with potential impact on the study of water-rich planets.
A visitor's garden at an Iowa Correctional Institution for Women is strengthening connections between incarcerated women and their children, with 90% of visitors saying it made their visit better. The garden provides a child-friendly environment, improved affective experience, and home-like visiting space.
A study by King's College London found that cancer patients referred by GPs with suspected cancer had lower mortality rates and were more likely to be diagnosed at an earlier stage for breast, lung, and prostate cancer. Early GP referrals have made a significant impact in improving cancer outcomes in the NHS.
Chemists have developed a titanium catalyst that makes light usable for selective chemical reactions, producing highly selective products that can be used for antiviral drugs or luminescent dyes. The new catalyst uses green light to trigger reactions without destroying organic compounds.
Research suggests airborne transmission is a key factor in the spread of scarlet fever, with infected individuals shedding virus even without symptoms. The study found that classroom contacts were heavily infected and shed GAS despite being symptom-free, highlighting the importance of rapid diagnosis and treatment.
A new study led by CU Boulder suggests that continued CO2 emissions will significantly reduce our basic decision-making ability and complex strategic thinking. Indoor CO2 levels could reach up to 1400 parts per million, leading to a 25% reduction in basic decision-making ability and a 50% reduction in complex strategic thinking.
A team of researchers used genome-wide CRISPR technology to identify RNA-binding proteins, including Staufen2, that sustain and protect drug-resistant leukemia stem cells. Loss of Staufen2 led to a reduction in leukemia growth and improved survival in mouse models.
Farmers in parts of the western United States will be among the hardest hit by climate change, which will reduce seasonal water availability for irrigation. The study found that basins globally most at risk include the San Joaquin and Colorado river basins, where snowmelt runoff is projected to decrease significantly.
A long-term study found that infant behavioral inhibition is linked to a more reserved personality and higher levels of internalizing psychopathology in adulthood. The research also identified a neurophysiological marker, error-related negativity, as a potential predictor of risk for developing anxiety disorders.
An international team led by Princeton atmospheric scientist Meiyun Lin found that drought-stressed vegetation reduces ozone removal, worsening pollution episodes. This study highlights the need for stronger emission controls to address ozone air quality in Europe and has broader implications.
Chris Vanderwal has made significant contributions to the field of heterocyclic chemistry, particularly in the development of short chemical synthesis strategies for natural products. He is being recognized for his outstanding research on complex, bioactive natural compounds with various therapeutic properties.
Researchers analyzed data from nearly 12,000 black adolescents and found that attending sexual health programs was associated with increased condom use and reduced number of partners. The study suggests that these programs can have a positive impact on sexual behavior among Black adolescents.
New research uses virtual reality to increase identification with others by activating brain networks, aiding in treatment of violent offenders. The technology also helps improve understanding and relationships by simulating multi-sensory feedback.
A Northwestern University evaluation found that a procedural justice training program reduced complaints by 10% and use of force by 6%. The training, which typically takes one day, emphasizes transparency and responding to community concerns.
A large population study found a significant association between blood infections with anaerobic bacteria and an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. The study revealed that infections with specific bacteria, such as Clostridium septicum and Bacteroides ovatus, were linked to a substantial increased risk of CRC.
Researchers developed a holistic model combining property damage estimates with community-wide economic impacts and social costs. The study found that poorer individuals experience greater losses in well-being, with a 60% loss of average annual income for those at the bottom.
Researchers will investigate the role of interleukin-1 (IL-1) receptor 1 (nIL-1R1) in neuroinflammation-induced dysfunction and behavioral changes. The study aims to identify vulnerable neurons and elucidate cellular pathways underlying psychopathology.
Researchers at Michigan Medicine and Case Comprehensive Cancer Center identified the binding site where drug compounds can activate a key braking mechanism against cancer. This discovery paves the way for developing new anti-cancer drugs that enhance tumor suppressor proteins.
Researchers have made significant strides in understanding the mechanisms of cholera biofilm formation and hyperinfectivity. Biofilms are found to be highly infectious due to primed virulence factors, with bacteria already producing toxins before infection occurs.
A new study found that almost 4 out of 5 patients with moderate pain intensity considered it tolerable, and 30-40% of those with severe pain also described it as tolerable. This suggests an alternative to traditional 0-10 rating scales could help doctors better understand patient needs.
New research found that elevated CO2 concentrations cause profound changes in marine habitats, dominating them with opportunistic algae. This shift leads to a loss of coral-associated species and rearranges feeding behavior, resulting in a 45% decrease in fish diversity.
A team of US researchers, led by Dr. Jie Zhang, collaborated with a scientist quarantined in Wuhan, China to develop a machine learning technique for distinguishing the rare tRCC kidney cancer subtype from other subtypes. The study used a large dataset of 74 tRCC samples and achieved significant results.
New research reveals that raw-type dog foods contain high levels of multidrug-resistant bacteria, including those resistant to last-line antibiotics. The potential transfer of such bacteria between dogs and humans is an international public health risk.
Researchers visualize nearly complete transport cycle of mammalian glutamate transporter homologue, revealing efficient mechanism for sodium and substrate molecules. The discovery sheds light on potential treatments for schizophrenia and other mental illnesses.
Prostate cancer death rates in the EU are expected to fall, but Poland's rates are rising. Women's lung and pancreatic cancer death rates continue to climb. The European Society for Medical Oncology predicts these trends will impact cancer mortality.
A study found the dangerous mcr-1 gene in two healthy humans and a pet dog in Portugal, providing resistance to colistin, an antibiotic of last resort. The presence of this gene in humans and animals raises concerns about potential transmission and the emergence of untreatable infections.
Researchers from CSIRO unveiled a new approach to analyzing the genetic codes of SARS-CoV-2, helping understand how strains evolve and identify new clusters. The findings will aid in tracking the virus's progression and informing vaccine development.
A new study has investigated the role of pet care in the spread of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) among hospital patients. The research found no significant difference in pet care or closeness of contact to pets between MDRO-positive and MDRO-negative patients, with only a small percentage of pet owners and their pets infected.
A recent special issue of Advances in Atmospheric Sciences presents the latest findings from expanded and ongoing research efforts in Antarctic meteorology and climate. The studies reveal signs of climate change, including strong warming over the Antarctic Peninsula, rapid ice loss, and changes in precipitation patterns.
Nanobodies have been isolated and made available for researchers to study the 'spike' protein of SARS-CoV-2 virus. These proteins can stabilise the 'spike', enabling better imaging at an atomic scale, which could lead to new diagnostics and treatments.
Researchers discovered that PHIP protein resides at the leading edge of GBM cells, enabling other adhesion proteins to deepen the grip of cancerous cells on healthy brain tissue. Suppressing PHIP helped inactivate proteins that form the machinery for tumor cell movement, driving aggressive behavior.
Researchers from the National Institute for Infectious Diseases in Italy have reported an early detection of infectious SARS-CoV-2 in ocular fluids from a patient with COVID-19. The study found prolonged viral RNA detection, highlighting the need for continued vigilance in monitoring the pandemic.
Nathan Burtch is creating an open laboratory manual for quantitative methods courses in geography, addressing a long-standing need for resources. The manual will utilize statistics to solve real-world geographical problems and be available to instructors across Virginia and beyond.
A new study estimates that for every child requiring intensive care for COVID-19, there are 2,381 children infected with the virus. The US CDC and state health departments should begin reporting confirmed cases by age group to understand the true extent of the outbreak.
Researchers propose a new methodology to alter survey datasets to protect consumer privacy, preserving reasonable accuracy. Survey data is vulnerable to breaches and unauthorized use, with some employees stealing sensitive data from their former companies.
A team of researchers at the Francis Crick Institute identified early-commitment genes that trigger irreversible cell specialization in human embryos. These genes, which include GATA3, activate a positive feedback loop, ensuring cells remain differentiated and do not reverse back to a stem cell state.
Researchers at University of Illinois develop six approaches to treat hydrothermal liquefaction aqueous phase, including separation of chemicals and bioelectrochemical systems. These methods aim to valorize the wastewater byproduct, highlighting potential for sustainable oil production.
A new computer model, ApoSim, simulates the evolution of various prey behaviors, including permanent and switchable warning signals. The model explores how predators' learning speeds impact evolutionary outcomes, providing insights into the diversity of prey defenses.
A recent study by UConn researchers found that mismanagement and inadequate infrastructure are the root causes of supply problems for Ugandan farmers. The study revealed discrepancies in the quality of agricultural supplies like seeds and fertilizers due to improper handling, not adulteration.
A IIASA study reveals sub-Saharan Africa needs to triple its electrification pace to achieve universal access to affordable, reliable energy services by 2030. The region faces a daunting challenge with nearly 570 million people without electricity and limited grid infrastructure in rural areas.
Researchers are developing a universal virus enrichment tool that can enhance COVID-19 detection for various diagnostic assays, reducing false negatives and pandemic risks. The project aims to concentrate SARS-CoV-2 from low-viral-titer samples, improving asymptomatic patient detection.
A study published in Science Advances found that exercise during pregnancy stimulates the production of brown adipose tissue in fetuses, leading to improved metabolic health and reduced obesity. The findings suggest that physically fit women exercising during pregnancy may be setting their children up for better fitness too.
A new modeling study projects that COVID-19 will persist in the human population after its initial pandemic stage, depending on human immunity. The study finds that social distancing measures may need to be maintained intermittently into 2022 to control the spread of the virus.
Researchers in Papua New Guinea have found evidence of early agriculture and trade routes dating back to 5050-4200 years ago. This discovery challenges previous assumptions of the Neolithic period and sheds light on the development of cultural diversity in the region.
The extinction of threatened marine megafauna species could result in a loss of 11% of the extent of ecological functions if current trajectories are maintained. Sharks are predicted to be the most affected, with losses of functional richness far beyond those expected under random extinctions.
A study by Medical University of South Carolina researchers identified a specific brain region and system that can be manipulated to decrease binge drinking. The kappa opioid-receptor system plays a crucial role in driving binge and compulsive alcohol use, as well as contributing to stress and unease during withdrawal.
Researchers have identified two novel viruses in Brazilian patients with suspected dengue, one from the Ambidensovirus genus and the other from Chapparvovirus. The study used metagenomics to analyze blood samples and found an unexpected presence of these viruses in human hosts.
Cynomolgus macaques infected with SARS-CoV-2 exhibit mild symptoms and high viral RNA levels, shedding the virus from respiratory tract early during infection. The results suggest these animals are suitable for testing COVID-19 control measures and therapeutics.
The study assesses Iowa's data-driven patrol strategy, which aims to significantly reduce serious injury and fatal vehicle crashes. The researchers will follow the implementation of the program and evaluate its effects using quasi-experimental designs.
A recent study found that elderly patients with pneumonia are twice as likely to die as those with hip fractures. The researchers hope that raising awareness about the severity of pneumonia will improve prevention efforts and increase vaccine uptake among aging populations.
Global experts call for international assistance as African nations battle COVID-19 and HIV. The authors argue that success in one country is limited if epidemics continue elsewhere.
A recent study found that only 27% of the world's population can get temperate cereal grains within a 100 km radius, highlighting the difficulty of relying solely on local resources. The study modeled global distances between crop production and consumption, revealing complex dependencies in current diets.
A study by IRB Barcelona's Cell Signaling laboratory found that histone modifications regulate response to cellular stress, including heat and salt stress. The researchers identified over 200 amino acid regions in histones that undergo modifications under stress, allowing for personalized adaptation.
Researchers identified the origin source of lactic acid bacteria responsible for kimchi fermentation, revealing that ingredients such as ginger and red pepper do not contribute to fermentation. The study found three unique fermentative microbes specific to each ingredient, resulting in distinct flavor profiles.
A Korean research team has developed a high-performance cathode material for lithium-ion batteries by stabilizing the surface of over-lithiated layered oxides (OLO) using salmon DNA. The study improved catalyst performance and lifespan through integrated advanced analytical techniques.