A phase 3 clinical trial found that oral octreotide capsules effectively control symptoms of acromegaly in adults without pain or lost workdays. The treatment has the potential to expand options for patients beyond injectables.
A recent study analyzing nearly 230,000 men found significant racial disparities in prostate cancer survival rates across the United States. The research identified geographic areas with lower survival rates for certain racial groups compared to white patients.
According to an analysis of patient forums, desiccated thyroid extract (DTE) is more effective than other thyroid hormone medications for improving symptoms and overall well-being. The treatment, also known as nature thyroid or Armour thyroid, has been used by 10%-25% of people with hypothyroidism.
The European Research Council has awarded 2.5 million euros to the e-DOTS project, led by Ikerbasque Professor Maurizio Prato, to explore the structure and properties of carbon nanodots for biomedical imaging and therapeutic applications. The project aims to develop an automated system to discover new nanodots with tailored properties.
A new study finds that a wearable device called V-Go can safely deliver regular human insulin (RHI) to patients with type 2 diabetes, achieving good blood sugar control. The study, which compared RHI to rapid acting insulin (RAI) analogs, showed improvements in hemoglobin A1c levels and met its primary endpoint of noninferiority.
A COVID-19 palliative care plan has been developed as an essential tool to provide care during the pandemic. The plan focuses on 8 critical elements: stockpiling medications and supplies, training staff, optimizing space, refining systems, alleviating separation effects, promoting critical conversations, focusing on marginalized popula...
A study by Fraunhofer IVV, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, and University of Alicante found that separating packaging waste from household waste reduces off-odors in plastic recyclates. The researchers identified over 60 odor-causing substances and found that washing post-consumer LDPE shopping bags at 60 degrees reduced overall odors.
A team at NIST has developed an AI system that can auto-tune quantum dots for creating functional qubits, overcoming a major engineering hurdle. The system uses machine learning to recognize images of quantum dot measurements and make precise adjustments.
A new study from the University of Eastern Finland reveals that cross-border regions often struggle to achieve concrete outcomes in cooperation. Despite local decision-makers' support for integration, innovation cooperation remains sparse in many regions, including Cascadia and European border areas.
A virtual computational cell was built to predict cancer metastasis by analyzing the interaction of numerous molecules and signals within the tumor environment. The research found that hybrid cancer cells can be targeted using specific molecular signals and extracellular matrix proteins, offering new therapeutic strategies against cancer.
Researchers have discovered a molecular accelerator of leptin action in the brain called Sh2b1, which promotes the stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system and activates brown fat. This activation increases energy expenditure and protects against obesity and metabolic disease.
Researchers have identified a new gene, SMAD3, associated with melorheostosis, a rare condition causing excessive bone tissue growth. The study provides a breakthrough in understanding the disease's causes and may lead to the development of treatments.
A longitudinal study found little support for the Ferguson Effect, a decrease in police morale and proactive policing. However, low job satisfaction and cynicism among officers were associated with reduced police activity. The study suggests addressing officers' attitudes is crucial for promoting community engagement and proactive poli...
A four-year study led by Virginia Tech Transportation Institute is developing practical guidelines for integrating automated driving systems into current fleets. The research will provide critical data to guide rulemaking and fleet operations, addressing challenges of deploying automated commercial trucks.
A recent study found that technology use by adults with type 1 diabetes is lower among African-American and Hispanic patients. The use of continuous glucose monitors (CGM) and continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) devices was significantly lower in these groups, highlighting racial disparities in access to healthcare.
Astronomers have discovered a black hole weighing 50,000 times the mass of our Sun, offering the strongest evidence yet for intermediate-mass black holes in the universe. Hubble's observations confirmed that the object was tearing apart a star that passed too close, providing key evidence for its existence.
Scientists discovered that more carbon than expected stayed in the mantle, suggesting it was sequestered into lighter elements like silicon and oxygen in the core. Despite this, the majority of Earth's total carbon inventory still likely exists in the core.
A study published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society found that exercising women with menstrual disorders can start menstruating again by consuming an additional 300-400 calories a day. This strategy is easy to implement with the help of a nutritionist and avoids complications from drug therapy.
Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have identified the ABCC4 transporter as critical to the SHH signaling pathway in medulloblastoma. Targeting this transporter shows promise for treating this disease, with increased expression correlating to poor overall survival.
A study found that infants who started on solid foods at or before three months of age showed changes in gut bacteria and bacterial byproducts, which may predispose them to being overweight later in childhood. The researchers also found a delayed impact of early solid food introduction on short-chain fatty acid concentrations.
A recent study published in Neuro-Oncology has made significant progress in understanding low-grade gliomas (LGG) in NF patients, which affect nearly a third of those with NF1. The research collaboration between NF experts and LGG specialists aims to develop new therapeutic strategies for these patients.
A new study found that cancer treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors is associated with an increased risk of thyroid dysfunction, affecting up to 40% of patients. The type of cancer and specific combination of medications used can impact the likelihood of developing thyroid problems.
A study published by The Endocrine Society found that adults working long hours are more likely to develop hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid condition. Researchers discovered a significant association between long working hours and the development of hypothyroidism, regardless of socioeconomic status or sex.
A new study reveals how Big Dynorphin binds to the ASIC receptor, causing pain signals. The discovery could lead to a new type of painkiller medicine, potentially reducing the risk of opioid-related adverse effects.
A new study by Penn State researchers found that organic soybean producers using no-till and reduced-tillage production methods can achieve similar yields at competitive costs compared to traditional tillage-based production. This sustainable method reduces labor, fuel, and input costs while conserving soil health and water quality.
A recent study highlights various COVID-19 control measures being implemented at an ophthalmology center in Singapore to mitigate the pandemic's impact on patients and staff. The clinic has adopted several initiatives, including enhanced infection control protocols, telemedicine services, and patient triage procedures.
Professor Christina Salmivalli has received a €2.5 million ERC Advanced Grant to study persistent bullying cases. She aims to identify factors explaining why interventions fail in certain cases and develop new operational models.
Companies with female directors issued recalls of life-threatening defects 28 days earlier than firms with all-male boards, resulting in a 35% reduction in time. Female directors also initiated 120% more recalls of less severe product defects, including packaging and labeling issues.
Researchers have found that ZBP1 is activated by Z-form nucleic acids in the absence of viral infection, leading to cell death and inflammation. Endogenous retroelements may be a source of these nucleic acids, triggering this mechanism in humans.
Patients with superobesity are more prone to regain weight after bariatric surgery due to unconscious food cravings and attentional bias. Research found that pre-conscious and conscious attentional biases play a significant role in weight regain, suggesting that cognitive processes similar to addiction may be present in morbid obesity.
Researchers have developed an atomic magnetometer that can map the electrical conductivity of the human heart with high resolution. This technology has the potential to diagnose diseases such as atrial fibrillation without invasive procedures.
Researchers demonstrate the potential for using existing optical fibers as seismic sensors, providing high-resolution maps of shallow subsurface and validating a new technique. The approach has great potential for use in large earthquake-threatened cities with extensive networks of buried optical cables.
Researchers at the Butantan Institute and Boston Children's Hospital have developed a novel pneumonia vaccine capable of providing protection against all serotypes of Streptococcus pneumoniae. The vaccine is less expensive and more effective than current vaccines, with an estimated price of $2 per dose.
One-third of COVID-19 patients from Hubei, China, exhibited ocular findings, which occurred frequently in those with more severe physical conditions. The study highlights the importance of monitoring for ocular complications in high-risk patients.
Entangling disparate electromagnetic fields with a vibrating membrane creates novel ways to solve the long-standing challenge of sharing entanglement between distant quantum computers. The result enables microwave-optical entanglement, a key step towards solving this problem.
Researchers at the University of Trento identified a new molecular mechanism that determines the fate of cancer cells. The 'switch' protein DHX30 regulates p53's response to treatment, leading to either cell cycle arrest or programmed cell death, with potential applications for solid tumors in the colon, breast, and lung.
A new analysis found that Russian trolls used fake persona types to discuss vaccination on Twitter during the 2016 US election cycle. The researchers identified nine types of troll personas and found that they targeted specific political groups with pro- and anti-vaccination messages.
TGen has increased testing capacity to combat COVID-19, analyzing samples from public-health and healthcare entities. The institute's efforts aim to determine the spread of the virus, identify emerging hotspots, and assist in disease containment.
Researchers identified a key HIV mechanism for viral adaptation to immune milieus. Lower Rev-RRE activity has been linked to slower disease progression and immune evasion, highlighting the potential for therapeutic targets.
A new FDA-approved medication has been shown to effectively treat thyroid eye disease in patients of all ages and genders, regardless of their smoking status. According to a study, teprotumumab reduces inflammation and tissue buildup behind the eye, leading to improved symptoms and quality of life.
At 15 months, infants take into account the efficiency of others' actions to identify rational individuals and predict preferences. They exhibit a preference for interacting with efficient over inefficient individuals.
A study of 158 transgender teens found that two-thirds have depression, with higher rates among males. Hormone therapy led to significant improvements in gender dysphoria for both affirmed males and females.
Researchers have identified a gene, endothelin-converting enzyme 2 (ECE2), that significantly increases the risk of Alzheimer's disease. The study found two mutations in ECE2 impairing its ability to break down amyloid beta protein, leading to increased levels and plaque formation.
Using technology that allows high-frequency signals to travel on regular phone lines, researchers successfully transmitted data at rates of terabits per second through a pair of copper wires. The discovery could enable faster data transfer in applications such as chip-to-chip communication and data center networks.
A recent study by Drexel University's Creativity Research Lab found that creativity is primarily driven by the right hemisphere in jazz guitarists during improvisation. Inexperienced musicians rely on their right hemisphere, while highly experienced musicians use their left hemisphere for creative tasks.
Researchers at the University of Leeds have discovered a dynamic shape-shifting mechanism in noroviruses, which may help explain their potent pathogenicity and inform vaccine development. The study's findings could lead to the creation of more effective vaccine candidates using virus-like particles (VLPs).
A new longitudinal study examines the depressive effects of emotional abuse and neglect on adolescents, revealing distinct impacts depending on gender and ethnicity. Emotional abuse predicts depression in girls, while emotional neglect affects Hispanic adolescents' symptoms through decreased school engagement.
The study found that Medicaid expansions in states that adopted the Affordable Care Act were linked to a greater percentage of patients with localized head and neck cancer diagnosed at an early stage. Timely treatment led to improved survival rates for these patients. The researchers hope their findings will inform policy makers.
The journal CVIA has published a new issue featuring important research papers from leading cardiologists worldwide. The International Brugada Electrocardiographic Indices Registry invites new members to contribute to evaluating the disease life course, risk factors, and prognosis in Brugada patients.
Red-winged blackbirds respond aggressively to a specific 'seet' call from yellow warblers when they detect the presence of brown-headed cowbirds. The birds also respond to other calls that signal general danger to their nests, including blue jay and cowbird chatter.
Scientists have discovered intricate structural changes in phytochromes that allow plants and bacteria to perceive light. The findings provide new insights into the function of these protein molecules and could lead to tools controlling their growth patterns.
The James Webb Space Telescope has successfully deployed its primary mirror, a 21-foot 4-inch mirror that will collect light from observed objects. The deployment was performed in early March as part of the observatory's final tests before launch in 2021.
A mobile contact tracing app can reduce transmission at any stage of the epidemic, helping to bring the pandemic under control. The app uses low-energy Bluetooth to log close proximity contacts and alerts users if they become infected, supporting health services and reducing serious social impacts.
Researchers investigated three non-invasive methods to predict nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) based on risk factors. However, the methods agreed only about 20% of the time, indicating a need for better and more reliable non-invasive diagnostic tools.
Researchers from IDIBELL and ICO conducted a pilot study to analyze intestinal microbiota genome in colon cancer patients. They used two sequencing methods, 16s and Shotgun, and found both techniques consistent, with complete sequencing more sensitive but not contradictory to single-gene sequencing.
Researchers developed an AI algorithm that can classify cutaneous skin disorders, predict malignancy, and suggest primary treatment options. The algorithm improved the diagnostic accuracy of clinicians, including dermatologists and the general public, by up to 86.8%.
Researchers are investigating how individual factors influence engagement in preventative health behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic. The yearlong study assesses preventative behaviors, social attitudes, and individual differences to inform future pandemics or viral threats.
A team of researchers has found that agave-powered bioethanol is superior to corn and sugarcane in terms of water consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and ethanol output. The efficient process could also help produce ethanol for hand sanitizer, addressing the high demand during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A study revealed smaller-than-expected phytoplankton cells in the North Atlantic, suggesting a reduced ability to absorb carbon dioxide. This finding may impact carbon sequestration models and the planet's ecological health.
A study in Finland found that environmental features such as nature destinations and walking-friendly infrastructure are crucial for older adults' physical activity. The research highlights the importance of considering specific neighborhood conditions when planning initiatives to promote older adults' health.
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.