A recent correspondence letter warns against premature use of novel therapies in COVID-19 patients, advocating for traditional critical care principles instead. The authors emphasize the importance of evidence-based practice and caution against abandoning reason during the pandemic.
A new study reveals significant immune changes occur early in multiple myeloma development, including increased natural killer cells and loss of memory T cells. These findings may lead to personalized treatment strategies based on the immune microenvironment of each patient's disease.
Researchers discovered that tube worm slime contains an iron storage protein called ferritin, which acts as a molecular battery storing energy. Artificially adding iron to the mucus increases light production, enabling a self-sustaining bioluminescence process.
Researchers warn of the risks of virtual and augmented reality becoming increasingly realistic, leading to difficulties in distinguishing between reality and virtual experiences. This can result in problems such as remembering virtual events as real and failing to distinguish between actual and simulated events. The study also highligh...
Researchers have identified a new potential agent for treating preeclampsia using small interfering RNA molecules that target the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. In animal models, the treatment reduced symptoms of preeclampsia and improved fetal nutrition, suggesting a safe therapeutic option.
Researchers modeled measles dynamics using 40 years of English and Welsh data, revealing local town spread contributes to virus persistence before vaccination. After introduction, unidentifiable sources became main reintroduction pathway.
Recent research studies published in The FASEB Journal cover topics such as the effects of vaping on lung tissue repair, potential treatments for arthritis and indigestion, and insights into why loud noise is bad for health. Other areas of focus include the discovery of new eco-friendly light sources, improved methods for growing plant...
A breakthrough in biobutanol separation has been achieved through the development of a novel metal organic framework (MOF) that can efficiently separate biobutanol from biomass fermentation broth. The new MOF has shown great efficiency compared to existing methods, making it a promising step towards economically viable biofuel production.
A new study suggests that a modified form of the opioid medication buprenorphine, known as BU10119, may help curb cocaine relapse with improved effectiveness and lower abuse potential. The research was conducted using mouse models and found modest improvements in preventing cocaine relapse while minimizing addiction risk.
Researchers found that lixisenatide significantly reduced neuroinflammation in the retina and optic nerve head of mice with early type 2 diabetes. The study suggests a novel therapeutic strategy for preventing visual deterioration in diabetic retinopathy before its clinical manifestation.
Researchers have identified 284 open reading frames in the herpes simplex virus 1 genome, allowing for more precise study of individual genes. This breakthrough has implications for immunological therapies, such as oncolytic viruses used to treat certain tumor diseases.
Researchers discovered a novel mode of protein degradation by the UPS under hyperosmotic stress. The proteasome forms nuclear foci that exhibit liquid-like behavior and contain ubiquitylated substrates, facilitating protein degradation. RAD23B is identified as a key molecule that induces phase separation of ubiquitylated proteins.
A nanomedicine expert proposes a cancer care model for managing COVID-19, focusing on early detection, regular monitoring, and targeted treatment. This approach could improve patient outcomes by providing systematic management of the pandemic.
A new study presents a promising treatment for indigestion using an earbud-like device that stimulates the vagus nerve. The research found that the device helped participants' stomachs expand to accommodate meals and empty more quickly, suggesting potential relief from symptoms of functional dyspepsia.
A study published in eNeuro found that gut microbes significantly impact the brain's response to opioids in rats, altering the pattern of neuron recruitment during addiction and withdrawal. This discovery may lead to new prevention and treatment strategies for drug abuse.
Researchers have demonstrated a new metasurface laser that produces 'super-chiral light' with ultra-high angular momentum, enabling control over optical communications and applications in industries like food, computer, and biomedical. The laser design allows for high power operation in a compact design.
Researchers found that high-fat diets caused impaired cognitive function in obese rats, affecting their mental exhaustion. The study, published in The FASEB Journal, suggests a link between excess weight and compromised cognitive abilities.
New research provides molecular-level insights into how Zika virus spreads through sexual contact by infecting vaginal epithelial cells. The study identified the virus's likely entry point as a protein called tyrosine-protein kinase receptor UFO, which promotes viral entry and replication.
Researchers at UC San Diego Health found that olfactory impairment suggests a milder clinical course in COVID-19. Patients who displayed no or mild symptoms were less likely to require hospitalization.
A new study by NC State University found that earlier high school start times are associated with higher rates of tardiness and absenteeism. Researchers analyzed data from five schools that moved their start times from 8:05 a.m. to 7:25 a.m., finding a significant increase in absences and tardiness.
Scientists have long struggled to explain the 'Great Unconformity,' a phenomenon where ancient rocks sit atop much younger sediment. New research suggests that multiple smaller events may have triggered these unconformities worldwide. The findings could help better understand the origins of complex life during the Cambrian Explosion.
A recent survey by Bright Line Watch found that experts rate US democratic performance as the worst since 2017, with significant declines in accountability, checks and balances, and individual rights. The public's perception of democracy also declined, with those who disapprove of Trump showing a sharp decline in ratings.
A new study reveals an alarming treatment gap for fragility fractures in six European countries, resulting in estimated annual costs of €37.5 billion in 2017, which is expected to increase by 23% to €47.4 billion by 2030.
A recent study found that artificial intelligence can provide results comparable to lung function tests in diagnosing emphysema and classifying its severity. The AI system can automatically analyze chest scans and create a 3D model of the patient's lungs, helping doctors better communicate with patients and track treatment progress.
Researchers found a connection between HHV-6 exposure and ME/CFS symptoms, showing how efforts to boost immune system come at physiological cost. The study provides an explanation for the common observation that ME/CFS patients report fewer viral infections after developing the disease.
A RIKEN research team developed a new 3D staining technique that can visualize whole organs and bodies. The technique allows for detailed anatomical analysis and whole-organ comparisons between species at the cellular level.
Researchers found that salamanders' ballistic tongue projection is less temperature-dependent than muscle-powered systems, relying on elastic-spring mechanics to achieve extreme performance. The study identified key morphological features, including rearranged collagen structures, as central to the function of this system.
Lis1 activation mechanism found to prevent dynein's self-inhibition, enabling motor protein function. This discovery may provide insights into neurological diseases like lissencephaly and guide therapeutic interventions.
Ann McKee will lead a collaboration to characterize brain donors with and without a history of RHI and/or TBI, determining their neuropathological and clinical phenotypes. The goal is to identify the neuropathological features of TBI-related neurodegeneration and its association with dementia and parkinsonism.
Scientists found that PTSD patients exhibit changes in small blood vessels, leading to abnormal responses in the sympathetic nervous system. Antioxidant supplements can reduce oxidative stress and improve blood vessel function.
A study of 10 tree species found significant year-to-year variation in the effect of warming on tree leafing. Warming in early spring advanced leafing more than in late spring, and climate change may lead to increased risk of mistimed leafing and altered interactions between species.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology developed smart contact lenses that can detect diabetes and treat diabetic retinopathy by controlling insulin secretion with electrical signals. The lenses verified accurate glucose level detection in tears of diabetic rabbits.
Researchers used mass spectrometry to analyze sperm stored in honey bee queens and found five proteins activated by extreme temperatures. The proteins can indicate heat stress in queen bees and serve as a bellwether for wider insect fertility losses.
Research from the University of Missouri found that pets lead to reduced stress and increased social interaction for both children with autism and their parents. The study suggests that pets can provide comfort and support for families, making them a valuable addition.
Hunter-gatherer societies had profoundly deep relationships with hunted animals, experiencing emotional and psychological connections after their disappearance. The study explores the impact of animal extinction or migration on human culture, revealing adaptations in material and social culture.
A recent study evaluated Medicaid benefits coverage and reimbursement amounts for recommended adult vaccines across all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The findings suggest that state policies vary widely, with some states providing more comprehensive vaccination services than others.
Researchers found rare variation in the TET2 gene nearly doubles the risk of developing Alzheimer disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and frontotemporal dementia. The study used whole genome sequencing of over 1,100 people to confirm the association.
A new digital archive co-created by University of Warwick researcher Dr Nicola Pratt gathers art, music, and film created during the 2011 Egyptian revolution. The archive includes over 200 items, many translated into English, to help users discover the significance of the uprising and its aftermath.
Research highlights continued support for immunotherapy approaches to pediatric ALL and lung cancer, as well as progress in Cancer Interception. The studies aim to identify genes that may be responsible for immune suppression or activation in Bronchial premalignant lesions.
A study in Shenzhen, China found that contact tracing and isolation reduced the length of time people were infectious by 2 days, confirming new cases in an average of 3.2 days compared to 5.5 days without contact tracing.
Researchers have discovered three new moth species in the Alps, named after legendary climbers Reinhold Messner, Peter Habeler, and David Lama. The moths are closely related and belong to the genus Caryocolum, living exclusively on carnation plants and inhabiting dry habitats.
A new drug delivery method using light-activated vitamin B12 molecules could reduce whole-body side effects from rheumatoid arthritis treatments. The approach decreases arthritis symptoms while carrying and delivering much lower quantities of the medication.
A new theory proposes that human fatherhood emerged as a response to changing ecological conditions, with males partnering up for mutual benefits. Paternal care became widespread in modern human societies, despite being rare among mammals.
New research reveals that exposure to loud noise can lead to high blood pressure and potentially cancer-related DNA damage in mice. Healthy mice exposed to aircraft noise were more likely to develop high blood pressure.
Research found that nicotine-fueled e-cigarettes increase heart rate and blood pressure in healthy, young nonsmokers. The study used JUUL e-cigarette nicotine or placebo and measured heart rate, blood pressure, and sympathetic nerve activity. Nicotine caused a prolonged increase in blood pressure.
A clinical trial has identified a gene program active in metastatic prostate cancers that failed to respond to enzalutamide treatment. The study found that these tumors had lower androgen receptor activity and higher stemness, making them more adaptable and resistant to treatment.
Researchers propose a new 15-rank classification scheme to categorize coronaviruses like SARS-CoV-2 within the vast virosphere. The system groups RNA viruses and DNA viruses into distinct realms, enabling clear communication among virologists.
Research reveals women's smaller airways require more work to breathe, unlike men, who have larger airways that reduce resistance. This finding may contribute to differences in asthma and COPD experiences between sexes.
Researchers at UB and UNC Chapel Hill have developed a new evidence-based roadmap for mobile produce markets, providing step-by-step instructions for starting and running a market. The Veggie Van model has been tested through research and shown to increase access to fresh, healthy food for low-income families.
Researchers found that IAPV-infected honey bees are more likely to be accepted by foreign colonies, engaging in increased trophallaxis with guards. The infected bees also exhibit distinct chemical profiles, suggesting a changed behavior meant to appease the guards.
A study estimates the cloud water path of mature tropical cyclones by analyzing the correlation between cloud microphysical properties and precipitation intensity. The results show that a notable sigmoid function can be used to fit the cloud water path and near-surface rain rate, providing a new way to estimate cloud water path in models.
High school students who attended later school start times slept longer and experienced improved mental health outcomes, including lower rates of depression and anxiety. The observational study suggests that adjusting school start times can be a viable strategy to address sleep deprivation among adolescents.
A study by the UPV/EHU-University of the Basque Country analyzed the influence of ozone formation precursors in the Valderejo Nature Reserve. The research found that biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) contribute up to 68% of the total VOCs measured, with isoprene and monoterpines being key contributors.
The North Carolina Diabetes Research Center will provide educational programs, pilot grants, and research infrastructure support to investigators in diabetes research. As one of only 12 NIH Diabetes Research Centers, the grant aims to connect investigators with collaborators to expand project scope.
The COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns about the allocation of healthcare resources in the UK. Dr Sabrina Germain argues that the liberal egalitarian conception of distributive justice is being replaced by a utilitarian approach prioritizing patients' needs. The NHS will need to address delays in treatment and reassess public health...
Researchers at the University of Sheffield have discovered a link between defective immune cells and rare childhood brain disorders, such as leukodystrophies. These diseases cause severe physical and mental disabilities in children, with limited treatment options available.
A new study suggests that CBD could be a useful therapy for glioblastoma, an often-deadly form of brain cancer. The researchers found that CBD slows cancer cell growth and is toxic to both canine and human glioblastoma cell lines.
A study published in Nature Climate Change used tracking data from crabeater seals to build a habitat model of krill distribution along the western Antarctic Peninsula. The researchers project that areas of krill habitat will shrink and move farther offshore, affecting species such as penguins and fur seals.
Researchers analyzed 1.53 billion geotagged tweets to assess regional well-being, revealing inconsistent results with surveys. By removing misleading words like 'LOL' or 'good', well-being predictions improved significantly.
Prolgolimab, a Russian original PD-1 inhibitor, has been approved for the treatment of advanced melanoma. The drug demonstrated significant antitumor activity and manageable safety in a phase II study, with 42 out of 126 patients experiencing an objective response.
Researchers discover e-cigarette liquid can cause lung tissue repair process to go haywire, leading to scarring. Inhibiting a certain nicotinic receptor may help promote cell death and slow scar formation in affected individuals.
Researchers found that immunotherapy 'checkpoint' inhibitor treatment before surgery eliminated cancer evidence in nearly half of patients with Merkel cell carcinoma. The treatment approach may reduce surgery extent and slow tumor relapses.
Research identifies lower concentrations of neuropeptide arginine vasopressin in infant cerebrospinal fluid of those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. This finding suggests a potential biomarker for early detection and prediction of the disorder.
A recent study used a 10-year galaxy survey to test one of cosmology's pillars and provided a new approach to understanding the universe's growth. The research team demonstrated that denser clumps grew faster, while less-dense clumps grew more slowly.
A nationally representative survey of 16,000 US households found that those with disaster preparedness tend to have higher socioeconomic status and insurance coverage. Households with stockpiles of food and water, electric generators, and communication plans are more likely to be prepared for disasters.
A recent study discovered that lizards in areas frequently affected by hurricanes have larger, stronger toepads than those not exposed to such storms. This suggests that hurricanes play a significant role in shaping the evolution of lizard populations across different geographic and phylogenetic scales.
Researchers found that pupil features correlate with cognitive processes involved in mental arithmetic and decision-making. The study used pupil-tracking technology to measure changes in pupil size over time, revealing two distinct influences: a rapid, transient effect and a longer-lasting, sustained influence.
Infection with Israeli acute paralysis virus (IAPV) alters honey bee social behavior, reducing aggression and changing chemical signals. This manipulation facilitates viral transmission between colonies, raising concerns about the impact of high colony densities on pathogen evolution.
Researchers at Stanford University have developed synthetic bryostatin analogs that boost the effectiveness of cell therapies and show promise as a functional cure for HIV/AIDS. The new compounds were tested on lab-grown human cancer cells and found to be more effective than bryostatin in some cases.
Experts from Weill Cornell Medicine emphasize the importance of planning early for beds, equipment, and personnel, as well as utilizing remote communication platforms. The authors also highlight the need for daily communication among healthcare professionals to alleviate anxiety and ensure essential care.
Researchers at Rice University developed a plan to recycle wastewater, reducing the need for surface water by 28%. The 'direct potable reuse' method could also improve water quality and travel times, providing a more efficient and sustainable water supply system.
Researchers at the University of Washington and Idaho discovered that prolonged antibiotic exposure can 'prime' single-resistant bacteria to become multidrug-resistant. This effect makes it more likely for bacteria to acquire resistance to multiple antibiotics, even in an antibiotic-free environment.
Researchers at Duke University have successfully treated motor dysfunction in an animal model of Parkinson's disease using light-based deep brain stimulation. The technique, which targets specific neurons, shows promise for tailoring therapies to individual patients and improving treatment outcomes.
A phase II randomized trial found that continuous dosing of BRAF and MEK inhibitors improved progression-free survival by nine months compared to intermittent treatment, which failed to show significant benefits. The study, led by the SWOG Cancer Research Network, enrolled 249 patients with common melanoma mutations and showed that con...
Researchers studied Comet 67P, finding features that shed light on the mechanical properties of materials forming the comet. The study suggests a revised model of cometesimal rheology requiring water ice and organic material binding action.
The report highlights eight urgent recommendations for reducing COVID-19 impact on urban poor, prioritizing community leadership and access to healthcare. Governments should provide basic needs like water, sanitation, and moratoriums on evictions to help vulnerable populations.
Researchers in Namibia demonstrated the effectiveness of targeting high-risk individuals with anti-malarial drugs and insecticide spraying to reduce malaria transmission. The trial, conducted in a low-endemic setting, showed a significant reduction in cases by up to 75%.
Researchers from Skoltech and international collaborators investigated the BREX defense mechanism, which bacteria use to protect themselves from viral infection. They found that a multipurpose viral protein called Ocr can mimic DNA and disable this defense system.
Dr Philippa Tomczak has been awarded a £1.2m grant to reconceptualise prison regulation, including representatives from multiple sectors and stakeholder groups. This will enable a step change in prison regulation and boost potential improvements in prison safety.
Researchers created 3D brain-region specific spheroids to study complex developmental processes and neuropsychiatric diseases. The spheroids can be connected to form fused structures called brain assembloids, allowing for the investigation of inaccessible developmental processes.
MIT engineers have devised a way to speed up drug development by rapidly testing how well drugs are absorbed in the small intestine. The new system uses pig intestinal tissue grown in the lab to test thousands of different versions of a drug in just hours.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have discovered a potential link between heart disease and worse COVID-19 outcomes. The study found that patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy had elevated levels of the ACE2 protein, which the SARS-CoV-2 virus uses to gain entry into cells.
Scientists have identified biomarkers that signal potential heart damage from cancer treatment, allowing for early diagnosis and intervention. The findings could lead to better patient care and outcomes by enabling doctors to adjust chemotherapy types or dosages before cardiac damage occurs.
The MIT-led consortium analyzed 18 incidents of viral contamination in biopharmaceutical drugs and found that most were caused by Chinese hamster ovary cells. The study recommends companies use rapid virus detection systems and new technologies to inactivate or remove viruses from cell culture media.
A study led by Stanford researchers found that low levels of the hormone vasopressin in infants' cerebrospinal fluid may predict an autism diagnosis. The findings suggest that early intervention could be beneficial for affected children.
New research from the University of Washington finds that designated ethnic spaces make underrepresented minority students feel more engaged and valued. The study reveals that these spaces are crucial in signaling to students of color that they belong at the university.
Researchers are testing the effectiveness of hydroxychloroquine as a preventative therapy for COVID-19 in healthy individuals who have been exposed to infected patients. The study aims to prevent infection and symptoms, with the goal of protecting vulnerable populations and reducing transmission within households.
A recent survey found that only 8% of NYC respondents had been tested for COVID-19, with a significant disparity in test rates among different racial and ethnic groups. Meanwhile, economic assistance programs have shown a positive impact on those affected by the pandemic.
A new animal study suggests that maternal nicotine exposure during breastfeeding can affect offspring's skull and face development. The research team found that exposure to nicotine during lactation was associated with abnormalities in craniofacial development.
A new wearable smart patch is being developed to help people personalize their diets and reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The device will measure key dietary biomarkers and send the information to an app, enabling users to precisely track how their bodies respond to different foods.
Researchers from ITMO University developed a new composite material with perovskite nanocrystals, increasing operating time by almost three times and improving stability in air and water. The material retained its optical properties when dispersed in water, making it suitable for biological applications.
Researchers discovered that the loss of NEDD4-2 protein leads to impaired mucociliary clearance and dysregulation of the TGF? signaling pathway, contributing to pulmonary fibrosis progression. The study provides a novel animal model for IPF research, enabling further investigation of disease mechanisms and development of new treatments.
Researchers found that organic substances produced by decomposed vegetation cover on top of caves create the red coloration, which is linked to climate conditions. The study used various analysis techniques to identify these compounds and established a link between the red color and mid-Holocene climate changes.
A new study reveals that hurricanes trigger evolutionary changes in island lizards, resulting in larger toepads in populations frequently affected by the storms. The research, spanning 12 island populations and 188 Anolis species, shows a significant correlation between hurricane frequency and toepad size.
A recent study found that North Atlantic right whales are in poorer body condition than Southern right whales, likely due to vessel strikes, entanglement in fishing gear, and changes in food supply. This decline affects the species' reproduction, growth, and survival.
A study has tracked the shift from hunter-gatherer lifestyles to early farming in prehistoric Europe. Dairy products were found in 80% of pottery fragments from the Atlantic coast of Britain and Ireland.
Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center and Ipsen Biopharmaceuticals have developed a novel drug, IPN60090, a glutaminase inhibitor for lung and ovarian cancers. The Phase I clinical trial shows promising results, particularly for patients with KEAP1/NRF2 mutations or low ASNS levels.
A recent study by the University of Göttingen suggests that new plant breeding technologies, such as genetic engineering and gene editing, can help increase food production whilst being more environmentally friendly. This approach has been evaluated over 50 years of research from around the world.
Researchers at University of British Columbia discovered that soil silicates can help control bleeding after injury by triggering clotting. The presence of soil in wounds activates a blood protein called coagulation Factor XII, leading to the formation of a plug and limiting blood loss.
Researchers have mapped out cell types behind various brain disorders, including Parkinson's disease, indicating that the disease may start in the gut. Oligodendrocytes were found to be affected early on, suggesting they play a key role in the early stages of the disease.
Researchers develop novel approach to deliver CAR T cell therapy directly into cerebrospinal fluid, effectively treating medulloblastoma and ependymoma in mouse models. Combining immunotherapy with azacytidine significantly enhances treatment efficacy.
A UCLA-led research team has developed a new method for delivering DNA into stem cells and immune cells safely, rapidly and economically. The technique uses high-frequency acoustic waves to manipulate cells and insert cargo without damaging them, enabling the creation of gene therapies for various diseases.
Researchers have developed a textile approach to tissue engineering using woven human tissue threads, which can create any shape and display excellent mechanical properties without synthetic materials. This innovative approach has the potential to aid in repairing damaged blood vessels, skin, nerve injuries, and other tissues and organs.
A new review study found that three tests - amyloid PET, FDG-PET, and MRI - are highly accurate in distinguishing between Alzheimer's disease and other causes of dementia. These tests show promise in improving diagnosis, but more study is needed for standardization.
Researchers warn of COVID-19's impact on pregnant women and newborns, highlighting the need for infection control measures and vaccine evaluation in clinical trials. The study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of viral transmission and its effects on maternal health.
The KIST research team developed a high-performance ceramic fuel cell that can operate at mid-to-low temperatures below 600°C using butane fuels. This technology enables the use of affordable fuels like butane in smaller, integrated systems for portable and mobile power sources.
A comprehensive comparative study suggests that early mutation rates were much higher and gene jumping occurred earlier than thought, making a simple interpretation of the 'family tree' of life misleading. However, it does show that early evolution was wildly different from present-day organisms.
Tropical Depression 1E formed in the Eastern Pacific Ocean on April 25 and reached its peak with maximum sustained winds near 35 mph. The system weakened as it encountered dry air and cooler sea-surface temperatures, eventually becoming a post-tropical remnant low.
Scientists at the University of Sussex suggest that free open source hardware (FOSH) could provide a viable solution to provide healthcare services with needed tools and equipment. FOSH designs are already being used to support the NHS, but verification and certification processes can be lengthy.
A study found that repeated annual rainfall shortages contribute to increased cropland expansion and deforestation in the developing world. The authors also noted that regions with adequate water infrastructure experience reduced cropland expansion and forest cover loss.
Researchers found that nicotine exposure during lactation can alter development of the head and face in mice, leading to premature closure of joints that connect sections of the skull. This could result in craniosynostosis, a disorder that requires neurosurgery to correct.
A team of researchers has used neutron crystallography to determine the structure of a large oxidase protein with high-resolution structural details. They found unusual proton behavior between a cofactor and an amino acid residue, and established a complete picture of topa quinone 30 years after its discovery.
A team of researchers at NYU Tandon and Drexel University developed a machine learning tool to detect posts with high engagement likely gained through pod manipulation. The study found that posting in pods boosted organic post interaction, with users seeing a five-fold increase in comments.
A new study suggests that using mice with pre-existing illnesses could improve the accuracy of flu vaccine development and efficacy. The researchers found that dirty mice showed more extensive lung damage from influenza A virus than clean mice, indicating a potentially less effective vaccine in these animals.
Researchers discovered that bacterial cells stimulated with light remembered exposure hours later, laying groundwork for memory-capable biological systems. The study reveals surprising similarities between low-level bacteria and complex neuronal processing.
Researchers created a novel microneedle technology that can target plant tissues for delivering life-saving treatments to crops ravaged by diseases. The method uses silk-based biomaterials and drug-delivery devices to precisely access plant vasculature.
The Wits Journal of Clinical Medicine published the first clinical data on COVID-19 in South Africa, covering various aspects of the pandemic. The special issue includes articles on diagnosis, ethics, social dimensions, and herd immunity as a strategy for fighting COVID-19.
A new study found that commercially available genetic tests for determining hemp plant sex may not be accurate, which could increase yields and reduce prices of CBD production. Researchers at Salisbury University tested three primer pairs and found two to be effective in identifying male seedlings.
Researchers at UC Davis studied the role of oxytocin in alleviating social withdrawal symptoms in mice, finding that blocking brain pathways affected by stress can reduce social avoidance behaviors. The study suggests potential for pharmacotherapies to effectively treat anxiety disorders.
A new study shows that salt-tolerant bacteria can be used to enhance salt tolerance in various plant types. Researchers found promising initial results with Kentucky Bluegrass, increasing yield 8.4 times in dry weight compared to control plants.
Researchers found that decreasing neuroinflammation in the brain before memory problems and cognitive impairment were apparent may be beneficial. The new findings point to the importance of developing therapies that target very early stages of Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found similar changes in the immune cells of both infected and exposed infants, suggesting a possible explanation for the low infection risk. The study aims to understand how the immune system can be protected against hepatitis C in the future.
Researchers developed an improved pluripotent stem cell differentiation protocol to generate beta cells in vitro, leading to more mature and functional beta cells. The use of CD177 as a quality control marker increases the efficiency and homogeneity of beta cell generation.
Researchers have discovered a novel way to couple the excitations of magnetic spins in two different thin films, leading to strong coupling and potential applications in spintronic and quantum systems. This dynamic coupling enables the exchange of energy between the two layers, allowing for longer-lasting magnetization dynamics.
Prolonged treatment with synthetic corticosteroids disrupts adrenal steroidogenic pathways, leading to pro-inflammatory effects and potential long-term damage. The study's findings have high clinical relevance for developing better treatments and preventing adrenal insufficiency.
A team of QUT researchers is developing advanced robotic systems to gather data on the Antarctic environment, informing scientific models of climate change responses. The Securing Antarctica's Environmental Future program will provide practical solutions to complex environmental challenges.
Researchers analyzed sediment yield data from 14 rivers in the Middle Volga Region to assess erosion trends over 50 years. The study found a decrease in erosion activity and volumes of its products, as well as reduced unevenness in river water flow, prompting practical applications for land use planning and resource management.
Researchers identified 33 new regions and confirmed 21 previously reported regions linked to melanoma risk, shedding light on the immune system's role in the disease. The study also uncovered associations between melanoma and common genetic variants in the TP53 gene.
Researchers found that isoflurane weakens the transmission of electrical signals between neurons, particularly at higher frequency impulses. The anesthetic preferentially blocks these high frequency signals, while having minimal effect on low frequency impulses that control life-supporting functions.
Analysis of Proterozoic basement granite in southern Colorado suggests that the Great Unconformity did not form solely due to glacial erosion during Snowball Earth glaciations. Instead, its formation may be linked to varying times and locations.
The $2.5 million project aims to create compact electronic power systems for military installations, utilizing gallium nitride devices for efficient energy storage and discharging. Machine learning will be used to predict the lifespan of GaN devices and circuits.
Researchers found that genomic changes occurred quickly, with river variants increasing in frequency by 2.5% over a single generation. This study demonstrates rapid evolution in non-microorganisms, potentially aiding organisms to cope with human-induced environmental changes.
The Phase III EMBRACA trial found talazoparib improved patient-reported quality-of-life measures and had a tolerable safety profile in patients with metastatic HER2-negative breast cancer and BRCA1/2 mutations. However, the study did not demonstrate a statistically significant overall survival benefit due to subsequent treatments.
Scientists from UNSW Sydney report new measurements of light emitted from a quasar 13 billion light years away, reaffirming past studies on tiny variations in the fine structure constant. The findings suggest that one of nature's laws may not be constant, challenging the Grand Unifying Theory.
Researchers have successfully created plants that produce their own visible luminescence through the insertion of DNA from mushrooms. The plants glow brightly and continuously throughout their lifecycle, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional lighting sources.
Scientists discovered a common molecular pathway in women who experience preterm labor and are developing new treatments using FDA-approved drugs. The research found that combined administration of nebivolol and N6022 can almost completely halt contractions, improving birth outcomes.
Researchers have developed a fast and low-cost diagnostic test using inkjet-printed antibodies, potentially reducing coronavirus testing wait times to 30 minutes. The D4 assay tool has shown promise in detecting SARS-Cov-2 antigens with high accuracy, making it a promising solution for point-of-care diagnosis.
A team of researchers from UTA is collaborating with DFW Airport to improve storm water management strategies and runway operations. They are developing an advanced flood warning system that can mitigate potential issues before they happen.
Researchers at TU Wien found that incorporated hydrogen atoms change the electrical behavior of nickelates, making them more difficult to produce. Calculations using supercomputers revealed the critical temperature range for superconductivity in these materials.
The special issue discusses the uneasy dilemma of saving lives now versus preserving them for the future, drawing parallels with previous pandemics. Research papers examine the role of globalisation, technological shifts, and income inequality, highlighting the need for micro- and meso-institutions to find ways out of the crisis.
Taking antibiotics with opioids may exacerbate addiction by altering brain responses to opioids, according to research on rats depleted of their gut microbiome. The study found that a weakened microbiome intensified opioid intoxication while reducing withdrawal effects.
Researchers monitor 171 Oregon gray whales using drones and find a compelling relationship between whales' body condition and changing ocean conditions. The study suggests that changes in ocean conditions may be causing skinny whales, with poor upwelling limiting prey availability.
A NUS-led team has developed an artificial intelligence platform called IDentif.AI to rapidly identify optimal drug combination therapies for infectious diseases. The platform uses machine learning to examine billions of possible combinations and doses, resulting in unprecedented speed and accuracy in discovering new treatments.
Researchers at UT Dallas have developed a promising method for remotely stimulating activity in deep brain regions using gold nanoparticles and lasers. The approach has the potential to improve tests for viruses, including influenza and COVID-19, by increasing sensitivity and reducing healthcare costs.
A new hereditary disease, FACAS, has been discovered that causes a cold-induced urticarial rash in patients exposed to temperatures below 15°C. The researchers found that the disorder is caused by a previously unknown mutation in the 'Factor 12' gene.
Systematic reviews evaluate cognitive tests for Alzheimer's disease, biomarkers for neuropathologic Alzheimer disease, and prescription drugs for cognitive dysfunction. The findings suggest that certain brief cognitive tests are highly sensitive for distinguishing clinical Alzheimer-type dementia from normal cognition.
Researchers at Walter and Eliza Hall Institute have discovered a new population of immune cells called ductal macrophages that play a crucial role in maintaining healthy breast tissue by clearing away dying milk-producing cells. This discovery could lead to new insights into treating breast cancer.
A study found that increasing tree canopy to 30% of land area could prevent over 400 premature adult deaths per year, representing 3% of the city's annual mortality. Increasing green spaces can also bring significant economic benefits, estimated at almost $4 billion annually.
Poor Amazonians struggle to catch enough fish during massive seasonal floods, leading to widespread malnutrition and lifelong health consequences. Researchers found that families often go without food for days or eat smaller portions.
Patients receiving 177Lu-DOTATATE radiation therapy may experience travel delays at U.S. ports of entry due to residual radiation activity; carrying a travel card with treatment information can help alleviate this issue.
A team of researchers from the University of Tokyo has developed an iron-based thermoelectric material that can convert waste heat into electricity. The material, which is mostly iron and relatively inexpensive, has shown promise in powering small devices such as remote sensors and wearable devices.
Researchers at the University of Manchester have developed a new understanding of asthma medicines through x-ray CT scanning, revealing the microstructure of individual particles. This innovation could lead to improved asthma medications and better quality control.
VoroCrust generates accurate digital representations of complex objects using Voronoi-cell meshes that conform to models without needing manual fixes. This software could save scientists hours of work and improve the efficiency of simulations for aerospace and other industries.
Nursing research plays a critical role in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic by providing reliable epidemiological data, effective treatments, and vaccines. The research helps advance supportive work environments that save patient lives and promote recovery.
The Stanford study develops a calculation of the risk that shaking triggered by a given project will be felt in surrounding communities. The authors propose setting yellow-light thresholds approximately two magnitude units below the red light to reduce nuisance-level shaking.