A recent study found that mammals, birds, and amphibians have lost an average of 18% of their natural habitat range due to land use changes and climate change. The loss could increase to 23% by 2100 in a worst-case scenario.
Scientists at Scripps Research have developed a new strategy to treat RNA-repeat expansion disorders, which affect millions of people worldwide. The compound has shown promise in early tests against myotonic dystrophy 1 and Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy by neutralizing toxic RNAs and preventing their capture of essential proteins.
The new guideline recommends increased use of biologic drugs, reduced steroid treatment, and regular immunizations for infectious diseases. Disease-modifying treatments are now more rapidly escalated in JIA patients, reducing the need for oral or intravenous steroids.
A landmark study published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology describes a fossil family that illuminates the origin of perissodactyls, including horses, rhinos, and tapirs. The research provides insights into the evolutionary history of these mammals, suggesting they evolved in isolation in or near present-day India.
A Boston University study reveals that physical distancing policies had little effect on lower-income individuals, who were more aware and motivated to protect themselves but lacked the means to stay home. The research used anonymized mobility data from smartphones in over 210,000 neighborhoods across the US.
Researchers at Kumamoto University have clarified the mechanism behind homologous chromosome pairing, a process necessary for sperm and egg formation. The study shows that cohesin acts as a marker to call HORMAD1 to the chromosome prior to homologous chromosome pairing, highlighting its importance in reproductive medicine.
Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute discovered that some children have pre-existing antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, which may offer protection. The study found that these antibodies are more common in children than adults and target a specific part of the virus, suggesting potential for vaccine development.
A global survey of 427 children with rheumatic diseases found only 5% developed COVID-19, with none requiring hospitalization or severe complications. The study suggests that children with rheumatic disease should continue their immunosuppressive medications during the pandemic.
Researchers developed phyloFlash to analyze SSU rRNA from raw metagenome data, overcoming limitations of traditional methods. The user-friendly software identifies organisms in simple communities with high reliability.
The new RA guideline recommends starting patients on methotrexate and continuing with treatment, rather than rapidly switching to other drugs. The guideline also aims to minimize the use of glucocorticoids due to their serious side effects.
A new study suggests that implementing social distancing measures in the US two weeks sooner could have prevented over a million cases and saved over 59,000 lives. The study's results highlight the importance of quick and aggressive non-pharmaceutical interventions to counter COVID-19 transmission.
Researchers used ancient DNA samples to reconstruct the population history of prehistoric dogs, finding they diverged into at least five distinct lineages by 11,000 years ago. The study also suggests human-dog migration patterns didn't always align, with some populations showing little genetic influence from wolves.
A study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that ultrasound-guided percutaneous needle biopsy is highly accurate for diagnosing small pleural lesions with nodular morphology or thickness over 4.5 mm. The procedure yielded a diagnostic accuracy rate of 85.4% and a 96.4% yield rate for nodular CT lesions.
Dr. Nanette K. Wenger is being recognized for her long-term record of successful teaching and mentoring of the next generation of faculty researchers, educators, and healthcare professionals. Her work has significantly improved patient outcomes, particularly in women's heart health.
Research found preexisting antibody-driven immunity against SARS-CoV-2 in a small proportion of uninfected adults and children, suggesting cross-reactive protection. These antibodies targeted the viral spike protein complex and showed neutralizing activity in cell culture experiments.
A new study shows that methotrexate significantly improves physical function and reduces inflammation in adults with primary knee osteoarthritis. Patients who received methotrexate treatment had improvements in WOMAC scores and reduced inflammatory markers, while those taking glucosamine showed no significant benefits.
A Boston University School of Medicine study reveals a widening gap between high deductible health plan (HDHP) enrollment and the availability of health savings accounts (HSAs), exacerbating health inequities among Black, Hispanic, and lower-income populations.
Researchers at UCL have used laser beams to 'switch on' neurons in mice, showing how memories drive the brain's inner GPS system. The study uses an 'all-optical' approach to read and write activity in specific neurons, reactivating memories of a location where rewards were obtained.
Researchers derived an analytical model of optical activity in black phosphorous under an external magnetic field, discovering tunable phenomena. The findings show optical activity conforming to that previously observed in chiral metamaterials and have applications in polarization optics, stereochemistry, and molecular biology.
The University of Montana researchers contributed to a global data archive for studies of animal migration in the Arctic and sub-Arctic. The archive contains over 200 projects and movement data of more than 8,000 marine and terrestrial animals from 1991 to the present.
Researchers found that eliminating cost sharing for contraception resulted in higher birth rates among low-income and middle-income women, but not among high-income women. The study suggests that increased access to affordable contraception may contribute to a decline in unintended pregnancies.
Researchers from NIES and JAMSTEC detected a 20% decrease in FFCO2 emissions in China during January-February 2020 due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The study used atmospheric observations at Hateruma Island, Japan, to quantify the changes in regional FFCO2 emissions.
A new study by Cornell University researchers found that government policies played a crucial role in Denmark's widespread adoption of wind energy. The study analyzed the impact of policies on small producers' decisions to shut down or upgrade aging equipment and found that well-designed policies were essential for the industry's growth.
A team of scientists and students from the University of Sheffield has published blueprints for a cheaper single-molecule microscope, making the technique more accessible to labs worldwide. The smfBox microscope is capable of single-molecule measurements and works as well as commercially available instruments.
Researchers have detected hot gas in cosmic web for the first time, revealing 40% of ordinary matter remains undetected. The discovery confirms earlier analyses and paves the way for more detailed studies on galaxy evolution.
A new study found that pregnant women with obesity can alter their children's DNA through diet and lifestyle modifications, reducing the risk of metabolic disease. The research suggests that a healthy diet and increased physical activity during pregnancy can have a positive impact on infant health.
The adoption of Front-of-Package (FOP) nutrition labeling in a product category results in significant improvements in nutritional quality. Manufacturers increase nutrient reduction by lowering calorie content and limiting key nutrients like sugar, sodium, and saturated fat.
Dr. Anne B. Newman will receive the American Heart Association's 2020 Clinical Research Prize for her work on aging and cardiovascular disease. She is being recognized for her extensive research career, including long-term cohort studies and clinical trials on aging and physical functioning.
Scientists have discovered a new way to design magnets with high operating temperatures, large coercivity, and low density. The novel lightweight magnets could complement or compete with traditional inorganic magnets in various applications.
Dr. JoAnn E. Manson is recognized for her pioneering efforts in understanding the role of menopausal estrogen therapy in cardiovascular disease. Her extensive research career has led to significant advancements in population health promotion and prevention of cardiovascular disease in women.
The study examined clinicians' experiences planning and providing care in settings with limited resources during the pandemic. Clinicians reported significant challenges and stress in managing patients, highlighting the need for support and resources to mitigate these effects.
A new study published in Obstetrics and Gynecology analyzed data from over 310,000 Japanese women to investigate age-related and seasonal variations in menstrual cycles and body temperatures. The researchers found that the average menstrual cycle length increased until age 23, decreased until age 45, and then increased again.
A Cornell University-led team is developing more sustainable organic farming practices that balance productivity, environmental impact, and growers' quality of life. The project uses cover crops like rye to suppress weeds and reduce soil degradation.
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München researchers have developed light-gated compounds that allow precise control of cytoskeleton dynamics in neurons. These compounds can optically pattern cell division and may elucidate how Taxol acts, providing a new approach to understanding cellular cargo trafficking and regulation of mitosis.
A new study reveals that Arctic rivers contribute significantly more heat to the Arctic Ocean than in 1980, leading to up to 120,000 square miles of sea ice melt. This warming effect is accelerated by global air temperature rise and positive feedback loops.
Researchers at Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research developed a protocol to overcome difficulties in engineering and expanding mouse T cells for CAR-T cell therapies. The new method showed improved tumor control, proliferation, and persistence of CAR-T cells, as well as enhanced reprogramming of the tumor microenvironment.
A new study found that people of color with rheumatic disease are more likely to experience poor health outcomes from COVID-19 infection, including hospitalization and necessary ventilation support. Black and Latinx patients had significantly higher odds of needing hospitalization and ventilation support compared to white patients.
Scientists have developed a way to produce nylon fibers that are piezoelectric, generating electricity from simple body movement. This breakthrough technology could lead to smart clothes that monitor health and charge devices without external power.
Researchers identified nanobodies that bind tightly to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, providing a unique prophylactic and therapeutic strategy. These therapeutics have the potential to be produced in bulk from microbes and delivered via aerosol, offering an affordable alternative to monoclonal antibodies.
The discovery of Ajnabia odysseus in Morocco suggests that dinosaurs crossed hundreds of kilometers of open water to colonize Africa. The tiny duckbill was likely a powerful swimmer, with large tails and powerful legs, and may have simply swum the distance.
Researchers found that Medicaid expansion is associated with earlier stage of diagnosis, leading to decreased mortality rates for patients with newly diagnosed breast, lung, or colorectal cancer. In states with expanded Medicaid programs, mortality rates were significantly lower than in non-expansion states.
A new method using zircon crystals reveals that up to 350 km3 of magma are stored below Nevado de Toluca volcano, potentially leading to devastating eruptions. This technique provides a resolution two times higher than existing methods and is applicable to most types of volcanoes.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine have developed a new method to extract tiny but extremely powerful SARS-CoV-2 antibody fragments from llamas. These nanobodies are much smaller than human antibodies and many times more effective at neutralizing the virus, with the potential to prevent and treat COVID-19.
Researchers at HKUST have identified novel molecular targets for Alzheimer's drug development, focusing on endothelial cells and microglia. The study reveals a link between blood vessel dysregulation and AD pathogenesis, as well as potential therapeutic interventions through the cytokine IL-33.
Researchers from Oak Ridge National Laboratory have made groundbreaking discoveries in climate science, providing unprecedented data to improve global environmental models. Additionally, scientists have uncovered a mechanism that disease-causing bacteria use to anchor their protective outer membranes, which could inform strategies to c...
A USask study of 14 healthy individuals wearing face masks during strenuous workouts found no detrimental effects on performance and minimal impact on blood and muscle oxygenation. The researchers' findings support the safe use of face masks in indoor exercise facilities, making them safer for gym-goers and allowing sports to continue.
The illustrations, created by Nigerian artist Christian Okwananke, show social and mental health impacts of NTDs like stigmatisation, loneliness, and depression. They were shown to NTD health professionals and had an impact, sparking conversations in a sensitive way.
Researchers recommend using past climates to evaluate and fine-tune climate models, as they often perform better with historic climates but struggle with ancient climates. This could help narrow uncertainties surrounding future temperature, ice sheet, and water cycle changes.
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science reveal retrons, hybrid structures found in many bacterial species, are 'guards' that prevent viruses from spreading. These retrons activate a programmed cell death mechanism to protect the bacterial colony.
Scientists from the University of Leeds monitored air quality during Bonfire Night events and found elevated concentrations of soot, which is around 100 times its normal level. The research highlights the potential health impacts of pollution on individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
The study aims to assess the prevalence and attitudes towards workplace genomic testing in diverse workplaces, as well as employees' interest and objections to such testing. The research team will analyze employers' perspectives, employee responses, and potential issues related to genetic privacy and discrimination.
MUSC researchers discovered blocking an energy pathway for T-cells after hematopoietic stem cell transplant reduces graft-versus-host disease, while maintaining ability to kill leukemia cells. The study uses a lysosomal acid lipase-deficient mouse model, showing promising results with FDA-approved inhibitor orlistat.
Researchers studied Nocticola sp. cockroaches to better understand their evolutionary history, shedding light on a 'lost' family of insects that may be the missing link in the evolution of insects from prehistoric times to the present day.
Research from Finland found that teacher-perceived conflict in kindergarten is linked to lower interest and pre-academic skills in literacy and math. The study highlights the importance of developing supportive relationships between teachers and children.
Researchers at Yale University discovered how SARS-CoV-2 virus blocks cell production of immune molecules and contributes to severe illness. The viral protein Nsp1 forms a plug in the ribosome, preventing it from receiving genetic instructions for new proteins.
Rapid climate change can cause sudden disruptions in food supply for certain species, making it difficult for them to adapt and survive. Studies found that great tit populations would be guaranteed to become extinct by 2100 if larvae appeared 24 days earlier than normal.
The Chengjiang fauna provides critical evidence for the theory of evolution, with well-preserved soft-bodied animal fossils dating back to the Cambrian period. These discoveries shed light on the emergence of basic human organs, including the mouth, brain, heart, and vertebrae.
A recent study by Washington State University's Bidisha Mandal found that the Affordable Care Act's Medicaid expansion program has reduced the number of uninsured low-income residents, particularly in rural areas. However, the likelihood of repeated emergency room visits for non-urgent reasons has not decreased.
Researchers have made breakthrough discoveries about fast radio bursts (FRBs), a mysterious phenomenon. The studies reveal that magnetars, incredibly dense neutron stars, can produce FRBs through magnetic field dissipation. These findings narrow down the understanding of FRB mechanisms, offering new insights into this enigmatic field.
Large-area flexible organic photodiodes have surpassed conventional silicon photodiode technology in detecting low levels of light across large areas. The devices offer advantages over silicon, particularly in biomedical imaging and biometric monitoring, with performance comparable to rigid silicon photodiodes.