Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a technique to visualize stiffness in soft tissues using x-rays, offering greater resolution than current methods like ultrasound and MRI. This allows for the identification of smaller and deeper tissue problems, such as lesions, which can be indicative of early-stage diseases.
Individuals taking glucocorticoid medications for conditions like asthma and arthritis are at high risk of severe COVID-19 due to suppressed immune systems. Injectable supplemental therapy can reverse adrenal failure and is crucial in managing patients with primary or secondary adrenal insufficiency.
A new study suggests that the brain uses multiple sources of sensory information, including vision and posture, to control movement. When visual cues are distorted or removed, the intensity of muscle stretch reflexes is reduced.
A randomized controlled trial found that liraglutide improves BMI SDS, body weight, waist circumference, and other weight-related outcomes in adolescents with obesity. The study also showed a similar safety profile to adults, with minimal gastrointestinal side effects.
A study found that physicians use varying strategies to address patients' worry about thyroid cancer, with some telling them it's a 'good cancer.' However, this approach may not be effective in alleviating worry. The research emphasizes the need for physician education and intervention to better support patients.
A new quantum technology developed by UCL researchers could revolutionize the diagnosis and treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF), a serious heart condition. The technology uses quantum sensors to map the electrical conductivity of the heart in 2D, identifying anomalies where the heart is misfiring.
A large study has found that thyroid hormone replacement therapy in older adults is associated with a higher risk of death compared to no treatment. The study, published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society, suggests that age-specific TSH reference intervals can help determine the threshold for thyroid hormone treatment.
Two PLOS ONE studies use the SIRD model to forecast COVID-19 spread and examine patient CT scans for clinical features with mortality. The models predict a significant number of infections (45,000+ in Hubei) and deaths (2,700+) by February 29. In contrast, patients with severe lung features were more likely to die from the virus.
A study published in eLife found that amyloid plaque formation directly causes brain tissue loss in animals, leading to progressive memory loss and loss of brain matter. However, lithium has been shown to reduce the life-shortening effects of this loss, suggesting a potential strategy to slow Alzheimer's disease progression.
Scientists at Leibniz-IZW developed a method to isolate and cryopreserve testicular cells of threatened or endangered felines. The method allows for the safekeeping of gametes, enabling conservation efforts through biobanking and future applications in species preservation.
An animal study found that coconut oil consumption reduces cholesterol and blood glucose levels, and fatty liver disease in obese female mini-pigs. The study suggests that coconut oil may be used to treat metabolic syndrome, particularly in women with obesity.
A team of researchers from the University of Tsukuba investigated the role of various neurotransmitters in regulating metamorphosis using the model sea squirt Ciona intestinalis. They found that GABA is a key regulator of metamorphosis, triggering physical changes associated with maturation.
Scientists have engineered T-cells to target multiple sites on leukemia cells, offering a more effective treatment for resistant acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The new CAR-T therapy, TriCAR T-cells, targeting CD-19/20/22, demonstrate improved efficacy compared to single-antigen therapies.
A new fennel fungal disease caused by Ochraceocephala foeniculi has been identified in Italy, affecting two cultivars and causing significant crop losses. The pathogen damages the fennel with necrotic lesions, posing a serious threat to Italian fennel production.
Researchers found that bariatric surgery significantly decreased liver enzymes, Fatty Liver Index, and BARD score in patients with NAFLD. Gastric bypass was associated with the greatest reduction in liver damage.
A recent study in Genome Biology and Evolution explores the genetic underpinnings of spider sociality, revealing rapidly evolving genes involved in behavior, immunity, and brain-specific expression. The analysis found differences in metabolic processes between solitary and social spiders, hinting at distinct hunting and feeding behaviors.
Researchers used total-body PET imaging to track the distribution of 89Zr-labeled antibodies in preclinical trials, achieving excellent image quality up to 30 days after injection. The study demonstrates the potential of this technique for extended imaging windows and low-dose radioactivity.
Researchers found that AI systems can absorb moral responsibility in difficult conversations, allowing humans to trust them more than their human partners. The study explores how AI alters human interactions and suggests potential applications for improving communication with subtle guidance from AI.
Researchers found that allied male bottlenose dolphins synchronize their vocal behavior when cooperating together, promoting cooperative behavior and regulating stress. This behavior helps reduce tension between males in a context that requires them to work together successfully.
New research finds that SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists are similarly effective in reducing major cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke. Hospitalization for heart failure is also reduced with SGLT2 inhibitors, especially in those with severe cardiovascular risk.
Biomedical engineer Jessica Kramer is researching how different compositions of mucus play a part in transferring coronaviruses from person to person. Her study may help identify those who are 'super-spreaders' and those more vulnerable to infection, leading to faster and more accurate data on virus spread.
The University of Montana has received a five-year, $10.75 million grant to establish the Center for Population Health Research (CPHR). CPHR will support epidemiological and mathematical modeling approaches to understand risk and resilience factors for children's health outcomes.
Researchers have created a device capable of converting low-level magnetic fields into usable electricity, with 400% higher power output than existing technology. This technology has significant implications for designing self-powered wireless sensor networks in smart buildings, potentially leading to substantial energy savings.
Research from UC Davis found that preschoolers' self-regulation skills are lower when they use screen media devices, which can impact academic success, social functioning, and mental health. The study recommends delaying screen introduction and limiting mobile device use to promote optimal development.
Spanish invaders depended on Mesoamerican copper smelting technology to produce bronze artillery pieces. Indigenous experts shared their knowledge with European colonizers, allowing them to smelt copper and create essential armaments.
Dr. Soon Moon Jeong's team creates a new light-emitting technology using in-plane electro-luminescent technology that inserts electrodes into a luminous layer, overcoming existing limitations. The device emits light more flexibly and stably than traditional devices, with applications in wearable devices and textiles.
A survey of resident physicians found that most felt uncomfortable managing obesity despite its increasing prevalence. The study highlights the need for improved education in obesity management to improve patient care.
Research suggests a hydraulic fracturing chemical can block the effects of testosterone and other male sex hormones. The study found that exposure to this chemical could lead to abnormal reproductive function, male infertility, and disrupted testicular and prostate development.
Researchers found that autophagy is dispensable for neuron survival but regulates axonal transport of molecules crucial for learning and memory. The study suggests that modulating autophagy activity may improve cognitive abilities by altering intracellular transportation systems.
Researchers have developed a biohybrid system that uses bacteria on nanowires to convert carbon dioxide and water into organic building blocks. The system has achieved a record efficiency of 3.6% in converting solar energy into carbon bonds, making it comparable to sugar cane's 4-5% efficiency.
The Russian Journal of Economics special issue highlights the country's agricultural growth and its impact on global markets. Despite achieving national food security, experts warn that neglecting nutrition in policies may expose Russia to public health risks like malnourishment and obesity.
Research by Chris Meyer at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute suggests that businesses with substantial human interaction or changing service offerings may not benefit from AI automation. In contrast, companies that limit customer choice and interaction are more likely to see success with AI technologies.
New study reveals ocean deoxygenation as a critical factor in coral reef degradation, highlighting the need for improved data collection and management practices. Researchers warn that reduced oxygen availability exacerbates the impact of climate change and pollution on reefs.
A recent study has found that men with erectile dysfunction are at a higher risk of death, even if their testosterone levels are normal. The research, which analyzed data from over 1,900 participants, suggests that sexual symptoms can be an early sign of increased cardiovascular risk and mortality.
The European Research Council has awarded €450 million in funding to 185 researchers, who will explore innovative ideas in various fields of research. The new projects aim to create 1,800 jobs and address pressing global challenges such as climate change and cancer research.
Researchers found that variations in subducting sediments can influence the magnitude and location of megathrust earthquakes. Sediment thinning caused by volcanic activity may play a key role in determining the size and distribution of these catastrophic events.
Researchers analyzed China's control measures during the first 50 days of the COVID-19 epidemic and found that they may have prevented over 700,000 infections outside of Wuhan. The study suggests that these measures successfully broke the chain of transmission by preventing contact between infectious and susceptible people.
A new UCL study found that heavy drinking over a lifetime significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and liver damage in older adults. Heavy drinking is also associated with a larger waist circumference and body mass index (BMI) in later life, even if it's stopped before age 50.
A new NYU Marron Institute report examines the fiscal issues and risks related to the NYC Teachers' Retirement System. The report highlights the importance of understanding the risks created by city pension funds and the need for policymakers to make informed decisions about those risks.
Research found that older people with proximal fractures face a higher risk of hospitalization for major medical conditions and dying prematurely. In contrast, distal fractures showed similar or lower risks. The study suggests that treating bone health is crucial to improve outcomes after a fracture.
A new study identified over 1,000 genetic variations in 450 genes linked to moderate to severe myopia. The research suggests that genetics can play a significant role in myopia, with specific genes involved in circadian rhythm and eye pigmentation.
Researchers used machine learning to analyze nationwide health checkup records and identified a reliable method for predicting diabetes patients. The model accurately predicted future incidence of diabetes with an overall accuracy of 94.9%.
Researchers discovered a biomarker for early detection of Alzheimer's disease in the form of high levels of RNA produced by the PHGDH gene. The study, published in Current Biology, suggests that overproduction of extracellular RNA by the PHGDH gene in elderly individuals may serve as an early warning sign of Alzheimer's disease.
A new study published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society found that people with very poor fitness at the beginning of a behavioral weight loss program lose less weight in the long term. Adults with poor or better fitness lost nearly twice as much weight over 18 months compared to those with very poor fitness.
Purdue University scientists are rapidly developing technologies to diagnose and treat COVID-19, including paper-based rapid-detection systems and environmental decontamination methods. Industry partners are being sought to license these innovations and bring them to market.
A study found that believers in conspiracies are more likely to engage in politics, but also resort to violent means when believing the government is controlled by secret societies. The researchers suggest this could lead to an acceptance of extreme options.
A study found housing insecurity is associated with a 3.2-fold higher odds of albuminuria, a sign of kidney disease, but not rapid kidney function decline. Housing insecurity was linked to delayed healthcare visits and compromised health in urban-dwelling adults.
A new system of cameras and vision software is being developed to monitor commercial broilers' activity levels, providing a common assessment tool for farmers, retailers, and consumers seeking to support better animal welfare.
Researchers analyzed medical data from 61 adults who visited an emergency department with scooter-related injuries. The study highlights the growing concern of motorized scooter injuries, particularly among young adults and pedestrians.
Severe flooding in the Midwest delayed crop growth by around two weeks and reduced maximum seasonal photosynthesis by 15 percent. This led to a 100 million metric ton reduction in net carbon uptake from June to July 2019.
Researchers discovered that activating the androgen receptor decreases tumor growth in estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer. The study used enobosarm, an androgen receptor-stimulating drug, which stopped tumor growth in all models tested.
Researchers suggest a more detailed approach to assessing forest health, focusing on protected areas with finer scale data. This method can help identify non-intact forests and track changes in forest cover over time.
A recent study by Ohio State University researchers found that a large number of mobile phone apps contain 'backdoor secrets', allowing hackers to access private data or block content. The team evaluated 150,000 apps and discovered that 12,706 contained hidden behaviors, posing a significant risk to users.
Phony Russian Twitter accounts contributed to the politicization of vaccine discussions among Americans, leading to increased polarization. Researchers found that pro-Trump personas expressed anti-vaccine sentiments, while anti-Trump personas supported vaccines.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab are developing fiber optic sensors to monitor offshore wind operations and underground natural gas storage. These sensors aim to detect issues such as gearbox failure and marine mammal activity, improving the reliability and safety of these systems.
Researchers developed CALM model to simulate pedestrian movement and predict disease spread on airplanes. The model produces results almost 60 times faster than SPED, enabling real-time decisions in emergency situations.
A collaborative study built predictive models to forecast six life outcomes based on 15-year social science data. The findings suggest that even the most accurate models were not reliable, casting doubt on the assumption of predictable life trajectories.
A new study found that mobile health devices and photoplethysmography technology can reduce stroke risk, rehospitalisation rates, and mortality in patients with atrial fibrillation. The integrated care approach showed significant benefits in managing AF-related adverse events.
A clinical trial found that smokers who received nicotine-containing e-cigarettes had a significantly higher quit rate compared to those who received only counseling. Participants using e-cigarettes reduced their daily cigarette consumption by 13 cigarettes per day, with overall quit rates of 21.9% at 12 weeks.
A new report by global experts predicts that over 11 million children will die from cancer worldwide between 2020 and 2050 if no additional investment is made. However, the authors argue that sustainable care for children with cancer is affordable and achievable in all countries.