Carnegie Mellon University researchers have created a method to build accurate 3D reconstructions of faces from smartphone videos, outperforming other camera-based processes with sub-millimeter accuracy. The digital face might be used in gaming, virtual or augmented reality, animation, biometric identification, and medical procedures.
The PREDICT Project has received a 6-month extension from the US Agency for International Development to provide emergency support for COVID-19 outbreak response, including early detection of SARS CoV-2. The project will also investigate the animal source of SARS CoV-2 using data and samples collected over 10 years.
A recent study published in Cardiovascular Research found that exercise has a profound impact on metabolism, leading to dramatic changes in metabolites related to energy production and waste elimination. The research also identified a specific metabolite called DMGV that may predict who does not benefit from exercise.
A comprehensive analysis of 121 randomised trials found that most diets result in modest weight loss and improvements in cardiovascular risk factors over six months. However, the benefits often disappear at 12 months, except for the Mediterranean diet which saw a small reduction in LDL cholesterol.
A new study reveals that American robins are migrating earlier by about five days each decade, likely due to shifting snow conditions. The birds' flight schedules are being fine-tuned by environmental cues such as snow conditions and when food becomes available.
Researchers developed a new approach to detecting lung cancer using nanoparticles that can interact with enzymes linked to the disease. The sensors were tested in mice and found to accurately detect tumors at an early stage, reducing false positives.
A study published in Nature reveals that the low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) plays a key role in the spread of pathological tau proteins between neurons. By inhibiting LRP1 expression, researchers were able to reduce tau spread in mice, offering new hope for potential treatments.
Researchers have discovered that certain plant materials can help store more carbon in soils and reduce erosion. Using two-step experiments with biomass crops, they found that miscanthus and willow performed better than sorghum in storing long-term carbon, making sustainable farming on peatlands possible.
The global nuclear medicine community has shared approaches to containing the spread of COVID-19, including triage, reduced elective studies, improved hygiene practices, and rotation of medical personnel. These measures aim to minimize patient contact and optimize distance to reduce the risk of transmission.
An interdisciplinary team of researchers finds that it is possible to bring industrial greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2070 through the use of promising technologies such as electrification, hydrogen, and energy efficiency. Governments can accelerate research and development and incentivize new technology deployment through pol...
Research highlights increased cardiovascular disease risk among people with HIV worldwide, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. The study explores how geographic location and income level influence the distribution of cardiovascular risk factors, shedding light on potential differences between lower- and higher-income countries.
An international team of experts has released 54 recommendations for caring for ICU patients with COVID-19, including guidelines on infection control, ventilation support, and therapy. The guidelines were developed in just three weeks and provide critical guidance for frontline clinicians, allied health professionals, and policy makers.
A study published in Neurology found that phone-based cognitive-behavioral therapy significantly improves depression, anxiety, and quality of life in people with Parkinson's disease. After three months of weekly sessions, participants showed a significant reduction in depression symptoms and maintained improvements six months later.
A landmark study published in Nature outlines a roadmap for rebuilding marine life to full abundance by 2050. The research identifies nine key components and six complementary interventions that can accelerate recovery within two to three decades, provided climate change is tackled.
A recent study supports the idea that modern humans and Neanderthals had multiple encounters, resulting in Neanderthal DNA being woven into the modern human genome. The research found that people in Eurasia today have genetic material linked to Neanderthals from different regions, including Siberia and Croatia.
Researchers discovered evidence of a 90-million-year-old rainforest near the South Pole, suggesting average temperatures were around 12 degrees Celsius. The finding challenges climate models and suggests higher carbon dioxide levels during the mid-Cretaceous period.
Researchers at Houston Methodist have developed a fatty acid-based platform for biological drug delivery, demonstrating high absorption rates in mice models. The study published in Science Advances may pave the way for oral delivery of more biological drugs, including those used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune diseases.
Researchers identified a protein responsible for transporting iron into bacteria that causes tuberculosis. Inhibiting this transport process could lead to new drug targets and novel treatments.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology have successfully created 3D cultured tissue that mimics liver fibrosis, a key characteristic of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The cells were collected from liver tissues of NASH model mice and showed characteristics similar to those of NASH liver tissues.
A new study published in Science Advances used CT-scanning technology to view fossil skulls of Australopithecus afarensis and shed light on the evolution of brain organization and growth. The research reveals that while Lucy's species had an ape-like brain structure, the brain took longer to reach adult size.
New research reveals that ancient hominins had a mosaic of ape and human features. The study resolves a question about whether these species had prolonged childhood, which allowed for cognitive and social skill acquisition.
A study from the University of California, Davis found that whole orchard recycling can sequester 5 tons of carbon per hectare, increase water-use efficiency by 20 percent and boost crop yields by 19 percent. This practice also builds soil nutrients and water retention, mitigating climate change.
A mindfulness app training program reduced physician anxiety by 57% and emotional exhaustion by 20%, suggesting its potential to treat burnout as well. The study's findings support the use of digital therapeutics like apps-based treatments for low-cost, widely disseminated interventions.
A new graphene-based actuator swarm can enable programmable 3D deformation, expanding capabilities of smart devices. The swarm integrates SU-8 pattern arrays with GO to achieve active and programmable deformation under moisture actuation.
A genetic defect in 15% of children with medulloblastoma leads to disrupted protein production and metabolism, increasing the risk of cancer. The study identifies a new hereditary cause of medulloblastoma, which could lead to more effective treatment options for affected families.
The Columbia University-led team will design, build and test key electronic components for the ATLAS system to enhance its capabilities. The high-luminosity LHC upgrade is expected to increase collisions by a factor of 10, enabling scientists to collect data more efficiently and analyze new particles.
A new study found that Vermont has conserved 33% of its highest priority targeted lands, with 87% of those acres also considered critical for wildlife habitats and corridors. However, lower elevation targets and riparian areas remain underprotected, highlighting the need for continued conservation efforts to achieve a sustainable future.
A recent study published in Science Advances found that physical forces alone can activate genes in human cells, leading to increased gene expression. The researchers discovered that histone proteins play a key role in determining which genes are responsive to stretching forces.
A newly discovered sandgrouse fossil from six to nine million-year-old rocks in western China sheds light on the arid habitats near the edge of the Tibetan Plateau. The fossil, named Linxiavis inaquosus, provides key insights into the evolution of sandgrouse and their adaptation to dry environments.
Dopamine released deep within the brain influences both nearby and distant brain regions, with significant effects found in the motor cortex and insular cortex. High dopamine concentrations promote longer periods of neuronal activity, suggesting a key function in learning and reward processing.
Researchers at Kyoto University have successfully reconstructed the human segmentation clock using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), a key focus of embryonic development research. The study reveals novel genetic components and oscillation patterns of the clock, which controls the formation of organs and tissues.
A recent study found that physical activity is beneficial for mental well-being in middle-aged women, regardless of menopausal status. Menopausal women experience more depressive symptoms than peri- or premenopausal women, but being physically active may help to mitigate this negative impact.
A Phase II study found that 93% of patients with relapsed or refractory mantle cell lymphoma responded to CD19-targeting CAR T-cell therapy KTE-X19, with 67% achieving a complete response. The estimated progression-free survival and overall survival were 61% and 83%, respectively.
Researchers have developed a new method to reconstruct formation paleo-pressure in sedimentary basins by integrating various paleo-pressure calculation methods. The study focuses on three case studies: Sinian strata in the Sichuan Basin, Ordovician strata in the Tarim Basin, and Permian strata in the Sulige Gas Field in the Ordos Basin.
The new method uses a combination of undulators and TRIBs to switch the helicity of X-ray pulses, enabling faster XMCD experiments with intervals as short as 1 microsecond. This breakthrough could lead to improved imaging techniques for magnetic data storage devices.
The American Gastroenterological Association has issued new COVID-19 guidelines recommending enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE) for gastrointestinal procedures, including the use of N95 masks and double gloves. The guidelines aim to minimize the risk of infection transmission among healthcare workers and patients.
Scientists have created a stable perovskite LED with an efficiency of 17.3%, significantly surpassing previous results. The breakthrough composite thin film, made by embedding a perovskite into an organic molecule matrix, has enabled the development of long-lasting LEDs.
New CT scoring criteria evaluate the progression of COVID-19 pneumonia by assessing both lobe involvement and changes in CT findings. The criteria suggest earlier diagnosis and treatment lead to shorter disease resolution times.
At high altitudes, the researchers observed increased foam production from soda eruptions caused by Mentos candies. However, this effect cannot be explained solely by gas laws. The team suggests that a unique balance between bubble size and number of bubble sites on the candy may contribute to excellent fountains.
A new clinical test uses sustainable harvesting of horseshoe crab amebocytes to save human lives and spare at-risk population. The method enables fast, affordable, and precise tests on specially treated human blood.
Researchers have identified a rare juvenile Homo naledi fossil, providing insights into the evolution of human development. The partial skeleton is estimated to be around 8-11 years old at death, displaying a unique mix of maturity patterns seen in modern humans and earlier hominins.
Scientists have mapped the genome of the German shepherd, providing a reference for future studies of diseases that afflict this breed. The completed genome will enable early detection and development of breeding programs to reduce genetic diseases like hip dysplasia.
A new study found that coercive measures like seclusion and mechanical restraint are commonly used in Finnish psychiatric care, with an average duration of nearly three days for seclusion. The use of coercive measures is more common than previously thought, highlighting the need for accurate data collection.
Researchers at Chiba University created a new type of helicoidal supramolecular polymer that changes its chemical structure in response to temperature. The polymer was formed by mixing two different monomers and exhibits a unique thermal response, collapsing rapidly at 45-50°C.
Researchers successfully produced high-purity Eucommia elastomer with a molecular weight distribution controllable through a threshing technology, achieving cost reduction by up to 87.5% compared to petroleum-based TPI production.
Researchers at Shinshu University School of Medicine have developed a non-invasive method to predict intracranial pressure (ICP) by measuring the brain's natural resonance frequency (NRF). The NRF is strongly correlated with ICP, allowing for accurate predictions without inserting a catheter or sensor inside the skull.
A phase 3 clinical trial found that oral octreotide capsules effectively control symptoms of acromegaly in adults without pain or lost workdays. The treatment has the potential to expand options for patients beyond injectables.
A recent study analyzing nearly 230,000 men found significant racial disparities in prostate cancer survival rates across the United States. The research identified geographic areas with lower survival rates for certain racial groups compared to white patients.
According to an analysis of patient forums, desiccated thyroid extract (DTE) is more effective than other thyroid hormone medications for improving symptoms and overall well-being. The treatment, also known as nature thyroid or Armour thyroid, has been used by 10%-25% of people with hypothyroidism.
The European Research Council has awarded 2.5 million euros to the e-DOTS project, led by Ikerbasque Professor Maurizio Prato, to explore the structure and properties of carbon nanodots for biomedical imaging and therapeutic applications. The project aims to develop an automated system to discover new nanodots with tailored properties.
A new study finds that a wearable device called V-Go can safely deliver regular human insulin (RHI) to patients with type 2 diabetes, achieving good blood sugar control. The study, which compared RHI to rapid acting insulin (RAI) analogs, showed improvements in hemoglobin A1c levels and met its primary endpoint of noninferiority.
A COVID-19 palliative care plan has been developed as an essential tool to provide care during the pandemic. The plan focuses on 8 critical elements: stockpiling medications and supplies, training staff, optimizing space, refining systems, alleviating separation effects, promoting critical conversations, focusing on marginalized popula...
A study by Fraunhofer IVV, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, and University of Alicante found that separating packaging waste from household waste reduces off-odors in plastic recyclates. The researchers identified over 60 odor-causing substances and found that washing post-consumer LDPE shopping bags at 60 degrees reduced overall odors.
A team at NIST has developed an AI system that can auto-tune quantum dots for creating functional qubits, overcoming a major engineering hurdle. The system uses machine learning to recognize images of quantum dot measurements and make precise adjustments.
A new study from the University of Eastern Finland reveals that cross-border regions often struggle to achieve concrete outcomes in cooperation. Despite local decision-makers' support for integration, innovation cooperation remains sparse in many regions, including Cascadia and European border areas.
A virtual computational cell was built to predict cancer metastasis by analyzing the interaction of numerous molecules and signals within the tumor environment. The research found that hybrid cancer cells can be targeted using specific molecular signals and extracellular matrix proteins, offering new therapeutic strategies against cancer.
Researchers have discovered a molecular accelerator of leptin action in the brain called Sh2b1, which promotes the stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system and activates brown fat. This activation increases energy expenditure and protects against obesity and metabolic disease.
Researchers have identified a new gene, SMAD3, associated with melorheostosis, a rare condition causing excessive bone tissue growth. The study provides a breakthrough in understanding the disease's causes and may lead to the development of treatments.
A longitudinal study found little support for the Ferguson Effect, a decrease in police morale and proactive policing. However, low job satisfaction and cynicism among officers were associated with reduced police activity. The study suggests addressing officers' attitudes is crucial for promoting community engagement and proactive poli...
A four-year study led by Virginia Tech Transportation Institute is developing practical guidelines for integrating automated driving systems into current fleets. The research will provide critical data to guide rulemaking and fleet operations, addressing challenges of deploying automated commercial trucks.