Research from UBC's PCIGR analyzed honey samples from Parisian hives collected after the April 2019 Notre Dame Cathedral fire. Lead concentrations were up to four times higher than pre-fire levels, suggesting exposure to lead contamination. The study provides a unique method for tracing environmental pollution using honey.
Researchers at IIT and Harvard University identified the tricks used by the brain to discriminate and generalize odorous molecules. The study sheds light on how our brain processes information from the sense of smell, revealing a new mechanism for recognizing specific smells.
A nationwide survey of academic neurologists reveals that bad outcomes from stem cell tourism are much more common than realized, with complications including infections, strokes, spinal tumors, seizures, and even deaths. Many neurologists feel ill-equipped to warn patients about the dangers of unproven treatments.
Researchers analyzed 884 fungal samples from 16 hospitals worldwide to identify clusters of genetically identical strains, suggesting the presence of more virulent and drug-resistant varieties. The study highlights the importance of monitoring hospital infection control protocols and finding effective therapies to combat Candidemia.
Chemical imaging modalities have helped reveal the Eyckian Lamb of God's hidden facial features, including v-shaped nostrils and forward-gazing eyes. A smaller, more naturalistically shaped body with a sagging back and rounded hindquarters has also been discovered, suggesting revisions to the original design.
Researchers have developed a new method to calculate the exact entanglement cost of a given quantum state, allowing for more precise measurement and application in various quantum research areas. This breakthrough resolves a longstanding investigation in entanglement theory, enabling efficient computation and broad applicability.
A new study analyzed national data on women's representation in surgical specialties, finding little progress made in equal representation for women over the last 11 years. The research projects that many specialties will take decades to reach equal female representation if current progress continues.
The American Chemical Society names BASF the number one chemical company for 2019, followed by Sinopec and Dow/DuPont, in its annual Global Top 50 list. The report shows a decline in earnings due to trade tensions and poor automotive performance.
The study revealed the Mediterranean sperm whale's widespread presence in the north-western Mediterranean Sea and identified a possible hotspot for habitat in the Gulf of Lion. Continuous day and night monitoring during winter months suggests different foraging strategies between areas.
A study of 8,275 participants found that those with severe gum disease had twice the risk for mild cognitive impairment or dementia. People with minimal tooth loss and mild gum disease were no more likely to develop thinking problems than those with no dental issues.
A study of 289 Japanese children found that pre and postnatal lead exposure impacts boys' IQ and language skills, while girls show no significant association. The researchers suggest that genetics and environment also play a role in child development.
A new study using loop quantum cosmology accounts for two major mysteries of the universe's largest scales. The research resolves two anomalies that have puzzled scientists for years, providing a closer look at the early universe and its primordial features.
A genome-wide comparison of eastern and western monarch butterflies found they share identical genetic diversity, contradicting long-held assumptions about their distinctiveness. The study suggests environmental factors shape behavioral differences in the butterflies' migratory patterns.
Scientists have identified Dome A in Antarctica as the best place on Earth to view distant stars, thanks to its extremely stable atmosphere. The location offers a unique opportunity to observe the universe with greatly reduced interference from atmospheric turbulence.
A study published in Nature Communications reveals the intricate choreography of phage assembly and its impact on bacterial infections. The research provides new insights into the mechanism of action of phages, which could lead to more precise and effective treatments for drug-resistant bacterial infections.
Researchers found that flower buzzing produced forces of over 50G, five times that experienced by fighter jet pilots, and suggests bees use specific types of buzzing vibrations for certain tasks. This discovery provides important insight into the pollination process and how flowers coevolved with bees.
A new method has been developed to extract antibiotic residue in food from animal sources, allowing for simultaneous extraction and sample cleaning. The procedure uses supramolecular, nontoxic solvents and has been validated by European regulations, making it suitable for routine controls.
A consensus statement evaluates the use of prognostic genetic expression profile testing in melanoma, cautioning against routine use due to limitations. The statement aims to assist clinicians in determining when and how gene expression profiling should be adopted in clinical practice.
Patients who had previously suffered a vertebral fracture experienced an increased risk of major osteoporotic fractures after longer bisphosphonate drug holidays. The study suggests that these breaks may lead to a partial loss of protective effects against fractures, highlighting the need for individualized management decisions.
A team of scientists introduces a 'meta-grid' of nanoparticles that significantly enhances the light output of LEDs while reducing energy consumption. By reducing Fresnel reflection loss, the 'meta-grid' increases the lifetime of LED chips by eliminating unwanted heat.
A new report from Colorado State University outlines a list of 20 climate indicators that provide insight into the impacts of climate change on US agriculture. The indicators, organized in five categories, offer a broad look at what's happening across the country.
Researchers investigated mood homeostasis before and during COVID-19 lockdown among Dutch students, finding that lockdowns hindered their ability to stabilize their moods with mood-modifying activities. The study aimed to understand how individuals adapted to the lockdowns and what factors influenced their mental well-being.
A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that drivers who have had a concussion take longer to regain complex reaction times, crucial for driving situations. The research suggests that traditional reaction time tests may not be the best measure of driving responsiveness and readiness.
A team of researchers from Washington University in St. Louis has determined for the first time how the process of wound healing begins, shedding light on fibrosis and cancer metastasis. They discovered a recursive process between fibroblasts and their environment, which can be controlled by manipulating cellular responses to drugs.
As electric vehicles accelerate, cities and utilities face the challenge of smoothing out the duck curve and avoiding costly new infrastructure. Smart charging strategies can help reduce demand peaks and fill in the gap.
Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have identified a promising anti-viral strategy against COVID-19 by targeting the papain-like protease (PLpro) of SARS-CoV-2. Inhibiting PLpro can suppress viral production and strengthen innate immune response, offering a potential therapeutic approach to combat the virus.
A review by McMaster University found that children under 10 are less likely to transmit COVID-19, while adults are more likely to be the transmitter of infection. Family stress, particularly among female caregivers and children, is also a significant concern.
Researchers have identified many genome locations that code for RNA molecules influencing gene expression, using techniques like eCLIP and RNA Bind-N-Seq. The study reveals the functions of these RNA sequences and their interactions with RNA-binding proteins.
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of agricultural technologies to ensure food supply security. Roboticized farms, vertical farming, and gene-edited foods are being used to reduce the risk of transmission of pathogens among workers and minimize reliance on human labor.
A team led by Pitt professor Katherine Hornbostel is developing a hybrid plant that captures more carbon than it produces, making it carbon negative. The system integrates natural gas with two carbon capture technologies to achieve high CO2 removal rates during both normal operations and off-peak hours.
A study found that some healthy individuals have immune cells capable of recognizing SARS-CoV-2 due to prior infections with 'common cold' coronaviruses. Cross-reactive T-helper cells may provide a protective effect, but could also lead to misdirected immune responses.
Researchers found that certain microRNAs can decrease the expression of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 enzymes, which are crucial for SARS-CoV-2 entry into human cells. This discovery could lead to new approaches for fighting the virus.
A team of scientists used positron beams to study radiation damage in iron films, revealing new insights into defect formation. The research provides critical data on the nature of defects and improves understanding of radiation effects in materials used in nuclear reactors and other extreme environments.
The Journalists in Aging Fellows Program aims to educate journalists about aging issues and disseminate information on scientific findings, policy debates, and innovations. The new cohort will participate in online educational sessions and deliver two projects based on current aging research.
A RAND Corporation study found that telemedicine services can extend care for underserved populations, particularly in rural areas. The study examined the experiences of nine community health centers in California and found a significant increase in telemedicine volume over time.
A new 'lab-on-a-chip' technology has been developed to monitor swimming pools more affordably and reliably, improving water safety for Australians. The sensor can accurately measure chlorine and pH levels, reducing the risk of infection from incorrect pool chemistry.
Research reveals complexity of tree and urban zone responses to extreme heating events. Tree transpiration plays a significant role in exacerbating the urban heat island effect.
Scientists have found that quantum particles can carry unlimited information about interacted objects, enabling precise measurements. Researchers developed a new technique using quasi-probabilities to improve metrology, leading to potential breakthroughs in super-precise microscopes and quantum computers.
A position paper from the European Society of Cardiology highlights the cardiovascular risks of e-cigarette use, particularly among adolescents. The authors call for stricter regulations on marketing and sales, as well as education campaigns to raise awareness about the negative effects of vaping.
Researchers investigated the dynamics of the Earth's transition zone, a boundary layer between ~410 and ~660 km depth. They found that deformation mechanisms shift from dislocation creep to pure climb creep at geological stresses, influencing the Earth's geochemical evolution.
Research found that five scientific fields (particle physics, atomic physics, cell biology, neuroscience, and molecular chemistry) account for more than half of Nobel Prizes awarded between 1995 and 2017. Additionally, many papers in these fields received less citation compared to other publications.
A six-week course of a PCSK9 inhibitor improved coronary artery function in people living with HIV or high cholesterol, increasing area and blood flow. The study suggests a potential way to limit cardiovascular disease risk in these populations by improving blood vessel function.
A new study reveals that almost two-thirds of first confirmed COVID-19 cases outside China had travel links to Italy, China, or Iran. The research suggests that travel from these countries may have seeded additional outbreaks globally before the pandemic was characterized.
Researchers analyzed mask-wearing and face-touching behavior in public areas before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing changes in global populations. The study found that people were more likely to touch their faces when wearing masks or in crowded spaces.
A new paper reveals the mechanism behind sorbent materials' ability to capture and release carbon dioxide from the air. The study's findings could lead to smarter design of sorbent materials at the heart of all carbon removal systems.
Researchers created a personal cooling fabric that efficiently transfers heat away from the body while allowing sweat to evaporate. The new material, made from nanofibrous membranes coated with boron nitride nanosheets, has high thermal conductivity and potential uses in solar energy collection and electronic device management.
Researchers found that combining pan-Bcl-2 inhibitors with cancer treatments can cause healthy cells to die, leading to reproductive and developmental defects. The study highlights the need for awareness about adverse effects of certain drugs like navitoclax.
A Stanford-led paper explores the unprecedented socioeconomic disruption caused by COVID-19, hypothesizing outcomes for Earth systems and outlining research priorities. The study aims to better understand the impacts of human activity on the environment, including greenhouse gas emissions, air quality, and the global economy.
A Potential Tropical Cyclone (PTC) 9 has developed in the Eastern Caribbean Sea, bringing heavy rainfall and gusty winds to several islands. The National Hurricane Center has issued multiple warnings and watches, with a high formation chance of 90%.
Using a quantum computer, researchers simulated time travel into the past, damaging one qubit. However, when all qubits returned to the present, they appeared largely unaltered, suggesting self-healing in reality. The study challenges traditional views of chaos and disorder in complex systems.
A recent study found that less than 20% of ecological research is computationally reproducible, highlighting the need for improved sharing of code and data. The study's lead author calls for a drastic increase in code availability to address this issue.
A new study by Columbia University researchers found that RGGI successfully reduced PM2.5 emissions and improved children's health between 2009-2014, avoiding 537 asthma cases, 112 preterm births, 98 ASD cases, and 56 low birthweight cases. The initiative also generated economic savings of $191-$350 million.
Australian researchers have developed a phage cocktail therapy to combat antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in diabetic foot ulcers. The treatment has shown promising results, effectively decreasing bacterial load and improving wound healing.
Scientists used dynamic in-situ x-ray diffraction to observe how a crystalline sponge changed shape as it lost water molecules. The study found that one water molecule leaves quickly, causing the crystal lattice to compress and twist, while the other two molecules leave together.
Researchers found that adjusting planter depth and downforce according to environmental conditions can improve crop emergence and yield. Studies showed that larger seeds produce a slight increase in emergence, while hill-drop planting overcomes inadequate field conditions.
Lehigh University's Energy Research Center receives $750,000 from the DOE to improve power plant efficiency and develop a technology to measure toxic heavy metals in power plant wastewater. The project aims to optimize operating efficiency, system reliability, and emission reductions.
Tropical Storm Douglas has weakened significantly due to strong wind shear, which has pushed the storm's clouds away from its center. The lack of deep convection in the storm is a clear indication of weakening.
A new material combines recycled concrete aggregate and rubber in a mix precisely optimised to meet road engineering safety standards. The blend is more flexible than standard materials, making roads less prone to cracking and delivering both environmental and engineering benefits.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham and international partners have developed a technique to miniaturize sensing devices using cold atoms and optical metasurfaces. The resulting devices are significantly smaller, with potential applications in various industries.
African carder bees have been spotted in Western Australia for the first time, according to Curtin University research. The invasive species was previously recorded in Queensland and has since spread throughout eastern Australia, raising concerns about its potential impact on native ecosystems.
A new study using data from 123 studies worldwide found that smaller habitats lead to more species extinctions when compared to larger habitats. The researchers developed a way to develop more realistic biodiversity forecasting models by accounting for ecosystem decay.
Researchers at Penn State have discovered a way to enhance superconductivity in materials by layering molybdenum sulfide with molybdenum carbide, increasing conductivity by 50% to 6 Kelvin. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient energy transmission and storage.
Researchers identified mechanism of competition between distinct mitochondrial genomes in the same cell, which depends on impact on cell metabolism. The study found that factors like gene function, drugs, and dietary changes influence preference for specific mtDNA variants.
Researchers at UC San Diego developed a new method to fabricate perovskites as single-crystal thin films, resulting in flexible single-crystal films with controlled area, thickness, and composition. These single-crystal films showed greater efficiency and enhanced stability than polycrystalline counterparts.
A new study suggests that COVID-19 may cause deadly blood clots in pregnant women and those taking estrogen, highlighting the need for anticoagulation therapy or discontinuation of estrogen medicines. Research is underway to understand how the coronavirus causes blood clots, which could inform prevention strategies.
Researchers have matched seismic signals with aurora displays in Alaska, offering a new way to study magnetic fluctuations. By combining data from all-sky cameras and seismometers, scientists can better understand the link between solar winds and the Earth's magnetic field.
Researchers developed a coaxial cable-inspired needle-electrode for multichannel and local-differential recordings of neuronal activity. This innovation achieved high-quality neuronal signal acquisition with a high signal-to-noise ratio, while reducing tissue damage compared to conventional electrodes.
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen have mapped and analyzed the atomic structure of the Cmr-β complex, a type III-B CRISPR-Cas system. The study provides new insights into the mechanisms behind this complex's immune response against phages and its potential therapeutic applications in fighting antibiotic resistance.
Grassroots knowledge from Indigenous people can help map and monitor ecological changes, improving scientific studies and managing ecosystems. The study reveals negative trends, such as increased invasive species and changes in wild animal health, highlighting the importance of Indigenous and local knowledge for global-scale monitoring.
A study by University of California, Davis found that wealthier US communities became the least mobile, while poorer areas increased mobility, exacerbating the pandemic's impact. The research highlights the need for targeted emergency relief packages to address lower-income regions' unique challenges.
A team of scientists identified a gene mutation that causes distal arthrogryposis (DA), a condition characterized by joint deformities and muscle loss. The MYLPF gene plays a crucial role in normal muscle development and function, and its mutations can lead to reduced muscle strength and degeneration.
Hongwei Xin, UT AgResearch Dean, is recognized for his global leadership skills in animal production environment, welfare, and sustainability. He has published over 600 refereed journal articles and has worked on various initiatives to facilitate linkages between academics, research, and economic development.
A new study suggests electric fans and self-dousing with water could effectively cool people at home during extreme heat. Researchers found that up to 65% of the US population could stay cool on all summer days using this strategy.
A novel cell therapy using patient T cells has shown preliminary effectiveness in treating relapsed or treatment-resistant multiple myeloma. The treatment, which is safer than existing CAR T cells, improved survival rates and objective clinical responses in patients with active disease.
A new study found that while overall US cardiac death rates declined between 1999 and 2017, the pace of decline slowed significantly since 2011. County-level disparities in premature cardiac deaths have grown, with out-of-hospital deaths increasing and socioeconomic factors playing a key role.
A novel function of spermine synthase (SMS) has been identified as facilitating colorectal cancer growth, with excessive accumulation of spermidine having harmful effects on cell viability. Combined inhibition of SMS and MYC signaling induces cancer cell death and tumor regression.
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a hybrid inverter platform that connects local energy resources to the utility power grid, enabling autonomous, distributed energy systems. The platform can interact with various control systems and support real-time monitoring for better system stability.
Researchers have developed biphilic surfaces that significantly improve defrosting efficiency on heat exchangers. The unique surface design enables the removal of frost and slush from superhydrophobic regions before complete melting, reducing cleaning time and energy consumption.
The study reanalyzed fossils of Pisanosaurus and dated rocks from the Ischigualasto Formation, finding that Ornithiscians and Saurischians first appeared and diverged around the same time. The researchers also found that the period over which the formation was deposited overlaps with the Chinle Formation in North America.
A previously unrecognized ocean current was discovered transporting water to the Faroe Bank Channel Overflow in the North Atlantic Ocean. The research team identified a new path for cold and dense water flowing at depth, which led to this exciting finding.
The article provides recommendations from a National Academies of Sciences report on reopening elementary and secondary schools, emphasizing partnerships with public health officials and transparent communication. The report aims to minimize risks and maximize benefits for students, staff, and communities.
Researchers develop microrecycling strategy to convert e-waste into a strong, protective coating for metal. The new material combines copper and silica compounds to form a durable hybrid layer that increases steel hardness by 125%.
Most of Stonehenge's sarsen megaliths originate from West Woods, Wiltshire, according to a new analysis. The study used advanced techniques to determine the stones' chemical composition, revealing a common origin for the massive boulders.
Researchers studied the decline of Arctic sea ice in 2018, finding it was three times higher than the initial loss during the satellite era. The study links this decline to global atmospheric processes and warns of catastrophic impacts on air temperatures and ocean circulation if the trend continues.
Astronomers have found a strange dismembered star cluster at the galaxy's edge, with lower quantities of heavier elements than other globular clusters. The discovery poses significant problems for current ideas on globular cluster origins.
MIT researchers develop an on-off system that allows for low-error quantum computations and rapid sharing of quantum information between processors. The system uses 'giant atoms' made from superconducting qubits, enabling high-fidelity operations and interconnection between processors.
Researchers at CNIC and IIS Princesa discover that sodium ions regulate mitochondrial function, increasing reactive oxygen species production in early stages of hypoxia. This finding could lead to new treatments for diseases related to hypoxia, such as stroke and heart attack.
A pilot study of a combination of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection and home-based exercise program showed encouraging results in reducing shoulder pain in wheelchair users with spinal cord injury. Participants reported decreased pain levels, with three describing their pain as 'much improved', after the treatment.
The Journal of ABSA International has been awarded to Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., effective 2021. The publication aims to promote global biosafety awareness and best practices in preventing occupational exposures and adverse environmental impacts related to biohazardous releases.
A study finds that immune suppression in older adults is reversible and can be relieved by targeting a specific cell type. This breakthrough could lead to more effective flu vaccines and potentially COVID-19 vaccines, increasing protection for seniors.
Scientists at the University of Warwick have developed a new technique that can spot potential preterm births in asymptomatic high-risk women with up to 73% accuracy. The technology uses volatile organic compound analysis to characterise airborne chemicals and is designed to be cost-effective and non-invasive.
A new study published in Epidemiology found that night-time exposure to outdoor artificial light, especially blue light, may increase the risk of colorectal cancer. The research analyzed data from over 2,000 adults and found a 60% higher risk of developing colorectal cancer among those with the highest exposures to blue light.
Researchers find that a combination of subsidies, weather experience, and financial literacy leads to long-term insurance uptake. Subsidies alone have limited effect without financial education and actual payout experience.
The ENCODE project has completed Phase 3, providing insights into the human and mouse genomes' functional elements. The study identifies over 900,000 candidate regulatory elements from the human genome, shedding light on cancer biology and other topics.
Gut microbiome plays a crucial role in cancer growth, particularly in the colon where high levels of metabolites from antioxidant-rich foods accelerate bowel cancer. In contrast, small intestines have fewer bacteria and may convert cancer-driving proteins into super-suppressors.
Researchers Rebecca Lybrand and her team studied the interaction between ground-nesting bees and soils in agricultural settings. They found that active nesting sites were present in locations with little to no rock cover and low vegetation, which may provide a suitable habitat for these pollinators.
Researchers found that psychological recovery can take place while still experiencing stressful conditions, contrary to previous research. Employees reported feeling less powerless and more authentic within two weeks of the crisis beginning.
Researchers used a genome database to identify the cell type from which cancers derive, revealing new insights into cancer development. By comparing cancer cells to normal human cells, they found that different cancers mostly closely matched specific cell types, shedding light on their origins and tumor behavior.
A phase 3 trial found pimavanserin to be effective in reducing psychotic symptoms in people with dementia, regardless of underlying dementia subtype or severity. The treatment works differently than other antipsychotics, showing promise for improving the lives of those affected by psychosis.
Researchers at Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg developed a method to incorporate paraffin wax into the shell of thermal storage tanks, reducing heat loss and promoting self-healing. The study's findings suggest a potential solution for storing renewable energy in the medium term.
Researchers find drastic bone and organic matter deterioration since the site's initial excavations in the 1940s, suggesting similar decline may be happening across equivalent sites. The study highlights the urgent need to preserve findings from Ageröd and similar sites due to environmental changes like drainage and pollution.
The LTX-β upgrade successfully demonstrates the ability of liquid lithium to hold onto stray particles, improving plasma temperature profiles and expanding plasma volume for fusion. The device aims to test whether coating all plasma-facing walls with lithium can enhance plasma confinement and increase temperature.
Salk researchers mapped DNA methylation changes over time in mice to better understand developmental disorders. The data help identify regions of the human genome that play roles in diseases such as schizophrenia and Rett Syndrome.
A study by scientists from Université de Genève found that active mediation in couples enhances conflict resolution and satisfaction. Couples who received mediation showed increased activation in the nucleus accumbens, a key region associated with feelings of pleasure and motivation.
Research reveals that men and women are equally willing to forgive their partner for infidelity, with the degree of forgiveness not related to the type of infidelity. The mechanisms underlying forgiveness appear to be identical between genders, with individual differences playing a role in reaction to infidelity.
The review paper reveals the intricacies of bacterial organelles, which support functions essential for survival and growth. Organelles enable bacteria to perform extraordinary tasks, such as photosynthesis and orientation relative to magnetic fields.
A decade-long study finds that certain surgical specialties have significantly lower percentages of female resident physicians. The researchers identified these specialties and tracked changes in the number of women in each over time.
Researchers found significantly less microbial diversity and richness in humpback whales' respiratory microbiota during the return leg of their migration, suggesting they were likely in poorer health. This study provides new insights into using airway microbiota as a non-invasive method for monitoring whale health.
A new framework helps local entities determine when to tighten social distancing measures and relax restrictions based on hospital data, aiming to minimize economic impact. The model provides clear guidance for tracking hospital admissions data and acting on strict thresholds to prevent hospitals from becoming overwhelmed.
The Aspen Family Prosperity Innovation Community, supported by a $7 million grant, aims to develop strategies and solutions that remove barriers and accelerate prosperity for low-income families. Boston Medical Center's StreetCred program will incorporate financial coaching as part of its care model.
Researchers identified nearly 1 million potential functional genomic elements in the human genome, which control gene expression and promote health or disease. The UMMS team's registry of these elements can be used to study links between regulatory switches and genetic diseases.
A scientific team has successfully simulated the formation of pallasites, a type of stony-iron meteorite, on an experimental basis. The experiments confirmed that both partial separation of core and mantle, and subsequent impact of another celestial body, are required for their formation.
A team of international researchers developed propagation-invariant light fields using caustics that do not change during propagation. This breakthrough enables new applications in high-resolution microscopy, material processing, and multidimensional signal transmission.
A new study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that pregnant Black and Hispanic women are five times more likely to be exposed to the coronavirus than white and Asian women. The study analyzed serological data from over 1,200 women and found significant variation in virus exposure rates across racial and ethnic groups.
Dr. Britta Will, an assistant professor at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, has won the prestigious Pershing Square Sohn Prize for her innovative cancer research. Her studies focus on understanding mechanisms that create and sustain cancer stem cells in acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome.
Researchers have detected a newer PFAS compound, HFPO-DA, in Arctic seawater for the first time, posing similar health and persistence concerns as PFOA. Higher levels of PFAS were found in outgoing water compared to entering water from the North Atlantic.
Researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute have engineered a new mouse model to study glioblastoma, the most aggressive type of brain cancer. The study identified over 200 genes that contribute to the development and growth of glioblastoma, providing potential new drug targets.
A PLOS Special Collection explores current norms and practice in childbirth, focusing on positive transformation and balancing interventions. Key findings include the importance of oxytocin and one-on-one support during labor and birth.
Researchers found that severe COVID-19 is associated with endotheliitis and microangiopathy, leading to a multisystem inflammatory syndrome similar to Kawasaki disease. Additionally, obesity in adults under 65 years old increases the risk of intubation or death from COVID-19, but not for those over 65.
Researchers from UC San Diego School of Medicine contributed to the ENCODE project, describing millions of candidate DNA switches that regulate gene expression. The study reveals novel functions for RNA-binding proteins and identifies genetic elements linked to human disease risk variants.
Scientists at the University of Minnesota have successfully electrically transformed iron sulfide, or 'fool's gold', into a magnetic material. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of valuable new magnetic materials for more efficient computer memory devices.
A potential treatment for yellow fever has shown promise in early-stage clinical trials in Singapore, using a novel approach to develop an engineered monoclonal antibody that targets the virus. The therapy was developed in seven months, significantly reducing the time required for drug development.
Researchers at Durham University have found a new toxin, called MenT, produced by the TB bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This toxin inhibits the use of amino acids needed for protein production, causing the bacteria to die. The discovery opens up new avenues for treating tuberculosis and other infections.
Syracuse University Professor Jianshun Zhang proposes a three-step plan to improve IAQ and reduce the risk of asymptomatic SARS CoV-2 infections. The plan includes source control, ventilation with increased outdoor air supply, and high-efficiency air cleaning with HEPA filters.
Electrochemical doping enhances optical and electrical properties of single-walled carbon nanotube films, increasing conductivity while suppressing optical transitions. The reversible method facilitates high doping levels, opening new avenues for future electronics and electrochromic devices.
A study found a decline in purchases of foods with caloric sugars, but an increase in those with both caloric and nonnutritive sweeteners. Purchases of beverages with nonnutritive sweeteners grew significantly, particularly among households with children.
Researchers exactly solve a representative model of the cuprate problem, explaining Cooper pairing and wave function for superconducting state in doped Mott insulators. The solution reveals that superconductivity exists and its properties differ drastically from standard BCS theory.
A new academic paper examines the history of anti-Asian hate crimes during health crises, revealing a long-standing pattern of xenophobia and discrimination. The study highlights how COVID-19 has furthered this historical trend, with Asian Americans facing verbal harassment, physical violence, and unwarranted suspicion.
Researchers used computational models to study the effects of thinner biological tissues on transcatheter aortic valve replacement. The findings indicate that thinner tissues can lead to high levels of 'flutter energy', causing blood damage and accelerating leaflet deterioration.
Sea turtles may experience a 87% decline in critical nesting habitat on Bioko Island by 2100 due to rising sea levels. The study, funded by HESS Equatorial Guinea and Purdue University Fort Wayne, predicts this impact for the beaches of Bioko Island.
The study examined nursing homes with reported COVID-19 cases in the US, highlighting key characteristics and risk factors. The analysis provides insights into infection control measures and strategies to mitigate outbreaks.
Sachin Velankar receives $292K from NSF to study micromechanics of surface tension, exploring its impact on material flow behavior. The research aims to understand particle cluster dynamics and inform industrial processes like oil drilling, 3D printing, and food industry mixing.
Researchers in Australia analyzed urine and wastewater samples to estimate changes in bisphenol exposure over six years. They found that urinary levels of BPA decreased, while BPS increased, with higher levels detected in younger age groups. In wastewater, BPA and BPS were consistently detected, with BPF also present in 29% of samples.
Researchers found that mussels form weaker attachments in iron-deficient seawater due to altered iron bioavailability. The study reveals a possible consequence of changing ocean chemistry on marine life.
A team of astronomers discovered a stellar stream composed of the remnants of an ancient globular cluster torn apart by the Milky Way's gravity 2 billion years ago. The Phoenix Stream is distinct from other globular clusters and suggests that there may be no minimum abundance of heavier elements required for their formation.
A new study published in JAMA estimates associations between statewide school closures and changes in daily COVID-19 incidence and mortality. The analysis suggests that timely school closures in March may have contributed to reduced cases and deaths in the following weeks, accounting for other public health interventions.
The Oak Ridge National Laboratory's production of ORNL-produced plutonium-238 enables the Perseverance rover to power its journey across Mars. The lab has been consistently increasing its Pu-238 production capabilities, aiming to produce 1.5 kilograms per year by 2026.
Researchers found that Dome A's unique combination of high altitude, low temperature, and stable atmosphere makes it an attractive location for optical and infrared astronomy. This location could lead to sharper images and the detection of fainter objects, overcoming a major challenge in Earth-based astronomy: atmospheric turbulence.
The ENCODE Project has added millions of candidate DNA switches that appear to regulate gene expression in humans and mice, providing a new registry for assigning biological categories. Researchers used biochemical approaches to explore the entire genome rapidly and comprehensively, identifying regions with potential functional roles.
A team of researchers at the University of Johannesburg has developed a natural fibre-reinforced polymer hybrid nanocomposite material using plantain fibers and carbon nanotubes. The resulting composite exhibits improved tensile and flexural strength compared to epoxy resin alone.