A new study published in The Lancet Planetary Health found that long-term exposure to fine particulate outdoor air pollution is a major contributor to cardiovascular disease and death worldwide. The study analyzed data from 157,436 adults across 21 countries and found a significant link between PM2.5 exposure and cardiovascular events.
A new study suggests that accounting for age and social activity can lower the predicted herd immunity threshold for COVID-19 from 60% to 43%. Lifting non-pharmaceutical interventions without achieving herd immunity could lead to a resurgence of infections.
Tropical Storm Dolly formed over the Northern Atlantic Ocean after transitioning from a subtropical depression. NASA's Terra satellite captured an image of the storm on June 23, revealing strong winds and a thick band of thunderstorms. The National Hurricane Center predicts Dolly will weaken and become post-tropical by Wednesday.
The COVID-19 pandemic is causing deaths with forced separations that deny final goodbyes and traditional mourning rituals. Bereavement care is essential to offset the risks of psychological distress. Authors suggest words clinicians can say to bereaved family members and guidance on referrals.
A $2.5 million Simons Foundation grant is supporting an international collaboration of neuroscientists to develop new tools for studying brain control over behavior across species, from songbirds to rats. The project aims to create a framework for understanding motor agility in any species or behavior.
An ultra-sensitive sensor has been developed to detect the nuclear decay of heavy neutrinos, which could explain the cosmic asymmetry between matter and antimatter. The researchers used a new fluorescent molecule to capture the barium ion produced in the process, providing a clear signal.
Scientists at the University of Würzburg have identified thousands of cryptic HLA peptides in tumor immunopeptidomes using a novel bioinformatics method. These peptides may serve as effective targets for cancer immunotherapies and vaccines against virus-infected cells.
A team at the University of Bath has developed Touche, a data-driven computer model that generates responsive animations against attacks and eliminates non-reactive behavior from characters. This framework simplifies the necessary technical work to achieve a convincing simulation, resulting in more realistic results for game developers.
The pandemic has highlighted the need for greater collaboration between biodiversity collections and other fields of study. Biodiversity data can be used to prevent or mitigate future infectious outbreaks. New investments are needed to support research and education in biodiversity science.
Research finds that tumor suppressor p53 influences insulin receptor gene expression in breast cancer cells, with mutant p53 strongly stimulating INSR promoter activity. This study highlights the complex interplay between p53 and the INSR pathway, with implications for breast cancer treatment.
A new study by Ben-Gurion University researchers found that interacting with a plush, seal-like social robot reduced pain and increased happiness. Lower oxytocin levels were observed in those who interacted with the robot compared to the control group.
A study of 2218 UK teens found that cyberbullying was linked to PTSD symptoms in both victims and perpetrators. Researchers suggest that asking about cyberbullying should become a part of children's mental health assessments.
A new study in rodents suggests that star-shaped brain cells called astrocytes may be responsible for killing nerve cells in glaucoma. The study found that increased pressure drove astrocytes to release toxins that killed neurons, highlighting a potential target for treating the disease.
Irish adults are willing to download a contact tracing app due to a desire to help others and combat COVID-19. Respondents expressed concerns over privacy, highlighting the need for clear communication on app development timelines and data sharing.
Research found that vitrification technology is safe for embryos, but storing them for longer periods reduces chances of pregnancy and live birth. The study analyzed outcomes from 24,698 patients and found lower implantation, clinical pregnancy, and live birth rates with longer storage times.
A recent study found that walking with a shelter dog can decrease psychological and physiological stress indicators in military veterans, particularly those with higher PTSD symptom severity. The researchers measured heart rate variability, salivary cortisol, and alpha-amylase before, during, and after walks with dogs or humans.
A new report from the Rudd Center found that beverage companies continued to target Black and Hispanic youth with TV ads for soda, sports drinks, and other sugary drinks in 2018. The report documents a 26% increase in ad spending compared to 2013, with $586 million spent on regular soda and soda brands alone.
Researchers developed two dermascopes using smartphone-based cameras to image skin lesions, mapping differences between melanoma and erythema. The approach improves efficiency and efficacy of skin-lesion diagnostics with high precision and simplicity.
A new research project aims to investigate the intersecting impacts of extreme heat and COVID-19 on vulnerable populations. The study will conduct three national surveys to understand perceptions and vulnerabilities in different states and counties.
This study defines the mutation profile of SUM in Caucasians using next-generation sequencing-based genomic analysis, identifying frequently mutated genes. The most abundant mutations were found in KIT and NRAS, while BRAF was only present in 3% of cases, providing insights into the genetics of subungual melanoma.
A Stanford research team developed a framework for routing delivery drones over ground transit networks, quadrupling their effective flight range. The 'makespan' of any batch of deliveries was under an hour in San Francisco and under two hours in Washington, D.C.
Researchers have developed a method to label and image cell surface receptors on live cells with two different colors, allowing for the study of receptor dynamics and pharmacology in their native setting. This innovation expands the possibilities for studying G-protein coupled receptors and other important drug targets.
A new study estimates Covid-19 herd immunity level can be reduced to 43% by incorporating age and social activity into a mathematical model, potentially informing pandemic policy decisions
A large study found that increased physical activity, including just walking alone, is associated with a lower risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea. The study analyzed data from over 155,000 adults and found that adding 20 minutes to daily walks can reduce the risk by 10%.
The report identifies gaps in understanding how teens support each other through digital media during times of stress and isolation. It highlights the need to move beyond simplistic questions about social media's impact on mental health and instead consider specific forms of engagement that amplify or mitigate risks.
University of Washington researchers have successfully cooled a solid-state semiconductor material using an infrared laser, achieving a temperature drop of up to 20 degrees C. The method has wide potential applications in fields such as quantum communication and scientific instruments.
A new epidemiological study found significant welfare concerns for hoarded cats not just from home environments but also from institutional settings. The study, which analyzed 371 hoarded cats relinquished to a shelter, showed that conditions such as overcrowding, uncontrolled breeding, and neglect were prevalent.
A study from Arizona State University found that frequent media use before bed in children who struggle with self-regulation is associated with shorter sleep duration. Children with low effortful control, a personality characteristic, slept the least amount of time when consistently using media before bed.
The current serotype of dengue virus in Singapore has the ability to transform its structure, evading the host's immune response and making vaccines and therapeutics less effective. This poses a significant challenge for developing effective treatments and preventing dengue infections.
A new study reveals that the immune system works differently between a woman's first and second pregnancy, with potential implications for preventing miscarriages and preterm births. The research found that the immune pathways promoting a healthy first pregnancy are distinct from those in later pregnancies.
Researchers have developed a new high-energy hollow fiber compressor beamline to generate intense attosecond harmonic radiation for nonlinear XUV spectroscopy studies. The system achieves 1.5-optical-cycle-long laser pulses with 1.2 terawatt peak power at kilohertz repetition rate, breaking a 10-year-old record.
Researchers at Ames Laboratory developed a new approach to generating layered, difficult-to-combine heterostructured solids. By smashing pristine materials together through ball milling, they created unique three-dimensional misfit hetero assemblies with distinct electronic and magnetic properties.
Indoximod increases T cell proliferation by modulating CD4+ T cells via the aryl hydrocarbon receptor and reactivating mTOR. It also downregulates IDO protein expression in dendritic cells, opposing the immunosuppressive effects of IDO and TDO.
The largest fish produce more offspring, while smaller competitors gain an advantage when it comes to finding mates. Females tend to be rarer than males at spawning grounds, and early life-history affects female reproduction.
Healthcare workers experienced high levels of acute stress, anxiety, and depression due to prolonged patient contact. Nurses were particularly affected by the environment's psychological toll, with many exhibiting symptoms of insomnia and loneliness.
Researchers found that genetic influences account for 45% of the variation in women's affectionate behavior, whereas environmental factors explain 55%. Men's affectionate behavior is entirely determined by their surroundings. The study aimed to determine whether social behaviors are learned or genetically driven.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge and King's College London discovered that problems in how the brain recognizes and processes novel information lie at the root of psychosis. The study found that defective brain signals in patients with psychosis could be altered with medication, leading to new treatment development pathways.
A study by NUI Galway found that wet wipes and sanitary towels are a significant source of white microplastic fibres in the marine environment, with 91% of microplastics at one location derived from these products. The lack of regulation for hygiene products has led to misleading labelling, causing environmental harm.
Researchers at the University of Seville developed a monitoring system using sessile bioindicators to detect changes in coastal environments. The SBPQ methodology confirmed its usefulness in detecting long-term trends and changes in coral reef communities, highlighting the importance of early detection and intervention.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare epidemiologists used resourceful strategies to keep personnel and patients safe, including extending PPE use and reprocessing respirators. The survey of 69 facilities found that many were experiencing shortages and had to get creative with supply management.
Researchers found that humans can complement machine learning in correcting for biases. Vintage-specific skills and domain expertise are key attributes that help humans guide machines in mitigating bias. Human collaboration improves ML productivity but its impact on long-term productivity is unclear.
Researchers used high-resolution data to identify environmental factors shaping redwood distribution, finding habitat suitability varies with moisture availability and fog across different landscape elevations. Redwood habitats are consistently more suitable near streams, with suitability ranging from 22-75% within a single landscape.
Researchers have discovered a new type of molecular wire with good conductivity qualities, paving the way for the development of smaller and more powerful computers. The study's findings suggest that molecules could be used to create electronic devices in the future, overcoming current limitations.
Researchers found that BI-D1870 inhibits AML cell proliferation and increases G2/M population without affecting CDC2 and CDC25C. The combination of BI-D1870 and vincristine synergistically increases mitotic arrest and apoptosis in AML cells, providing a promising novel approach to overcoming resistance.
A recent study analyzing nearly 38,000 test results revealed a positivity rate among Latinx populations approximately three times higher than other racial and ethnic groups. Researchers attribute the disparities to socially and economically marginalized factors such as crowded living conditions and essential worker status.
Researchers at the German Cancer Research Center found that CAR T cell production can be significantly reduced in an academic setting, from EUR 320,000 to around EUR 60,000. This could lead to substantial cost savings and faster treatment times for patients, as well as increased accessibility of this life-saving therapy.
A new study finds that investments in tree plantations and palm oil production consistently lead to higher rates of tropical deforestation. Governments must provide transparent information on land deals to protect forests effectively.
A recent genetic study involving 378 Arabian horses from 12 countries found a larger degree of genetic diversity than previously thought, contradicting popular notions about the breed's history. The research also revealed that the modern-day Thoroughbred does not contribute genetically to the Arabian horse, contrary to common belief.
Researchers developed the first fully-glycosylated full-length SARS-CoV-2 spike protein models available to other scientists. The models can be used for innovative simulation research to prevent and treat COVID-19.
A new urine test measures diet quality and identifies an individual's unique 'fingerprint', providing insights into their nutritional needs. The test reveals associations between metabolites in urine and dietary intake of specific foods, nutrients, and health conditions.
Researchers found a 8% increase in sunlight reaching solar panels in Delhi due to reduced air pollution. The cleaner air allowed for more efficient energy production from solar panels.
COVID-19 respiratory droplets spread through air, posing risks to health care professionals. Guidelines offer recommendations to reduce transmission, including PPE use and distancing measures.
A new Yale-led study finds that a decline in green energy spending during the global crisis could outweigh the short-term environmental benefits of reduced carbon emissions and local air pollution. The economic downturn may lead to a significant setback in clean energy innovation, with potential impacts on human health.
Researchers found that fish eggs can survive gut passage in ducks, with 0.2% of eggs intact after 24 hours. This process may play a key role in the dispersal of invasive fish species, such as Prussian carp, across wide geographic areas.
Researchers found that a digital media literacy intervention increased discernment between mainstream and false news in the US and India. However, the benefits were short-lived, highlighting the need for consistent reinforcement of lessons from the intervention.
Scientists have discovered man-made mercury pollution in the Marianas Trench, the deepest part of the ocean. This finding has significant implications for the marine environment and food chain, highlighting the impact of human activities on the planet.
Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new lithium-based electrolyte that can improve the performance of lithium metal batteries. The novel electrolyte design boosts energy density and coulombic efficiency, leading to longer battery life and reduced weight.
Studies suggest ultraviolet light is an efficient method to prevent SARS-CoV-2 transmission in indoor spaces. By irradiating UV-C sources inside ventilation systems, airborne and surface-deposited viruses can be quickly deactivated, protecting millions of workers worldwide.
Researchers developed a model to help airlines respond to flight delays and cancellations while considering potential future disruptions. The approach could result in millions of dollars in savings annually by reducing unnecessary costs such as speeding up aircraft or canceling flights.
Researchers analyzed data from over 15,000 people to find that the number of HDL particles is a more reliable predictor of heart attack and stroke risk than standard HDL cholesterol metric. In black people, neither HDL measurement was significantly associated with heart attack risk.