The COVID-19 pandemic led to a 17% decrease in global carbon emissions during peak lockdowns, with surface transport and industry being the main contributors. However, social responses alone may not drive deep and sustained reductions needed to reach net-zero emissions without structural changes.
Researchers at the Beckman Institute developed a new technique to quantify lipids in rat brain tissue, providing more information than previous methods. The technique allows for the localization and amount of ceramides to be determined, which are important in learning and memory.
A new study highlights the emergence of mosquito-borne viral outbreaks in West Africa, including dengue, chikungunya, and Zika viruses. The research emphasizes the need for early warning systems and control measures to prevent infectious outbreaks.
Children with COVID-19 often require hospitalization and intensive care due to inflammation and respiratory issues. Researchers found that obesity and asthma were not associated with increased risk of enhanced care, but over half of the children had no known contact with a positive person.
Global carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel sources reached a maximum daily decline of 17 per cent in April due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The decrease was primarily driven by a 36 per cent drop in surface transport emissions, equivalent to 7.5 megatonnes CO2.
Data science researchers at UC Davis received over $1 million in grants to study innovative concepts with high impact. The grants will fund multidisciplinary research partnerships and projects addressing challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Researchers use innovative technique to study fossilized skeleton in London museum, discovering it belongs to previously thought rare genus. Analysis reveals widespread distribution across UK, Russia, and Arctic regions.
Researchers developed a novel biosensor to diagnose and monitor autoimmune disorders, measuring autoantibody concentration and activity with high sensitivity. The tool enables the creation of new diagnostic criteria and approaches to treatment, offering improved accuracy and reliability.
A study by the University of York and Empa shows that retrofitting VW diesel engines with software or hardware updates reduced harmful nitrogen oxides emissions by up to a third. The retrofitting was successful from an environmental point of view, with passenger cars showing significant improvements.
A study led by University of Cambridge researchers found that children from poorest families consistently perform worse in basic literacy and numeracy tests than those from more affluent backgrounds. The study suggests that poorer students are disproportionately clustered in low-quality schools, often lacking basic resources.
A recent study analyzed a large-scale aquaponic system in Germany, finding potential for environmental and cost benefits when produced sustainably. The research highlights the need for expertise in both aquaculture and horticulture, as well as sufficient facility size to ensure profitability.
A new animal study demonstrates that transplanted human glial cells can repair damage and restore function in models of multiple sclerosis. The findings have significant therapeutic implications and represent a proof-of-concept for clinical trials.
A team of researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital has identified key molecular step stones in ALD that may provide targets for drug therapy development. The study found that cGAS and Cx32 are promising potential molecular targets for ALD treatment development.
Researchers discovered molybdenum telluride (MoTe2) nanoflakes exhibit high activity and selectivity for H2O2 production in acidic media. The nanosheets show improved performance over state-of-the-art Pt-Hg and Pd-Hg alloys, with potential applications in decentralized H2O2 production.
The Hastings Center recommends a triage protocol that prioritizes patients most likely to survive with treatment. However, critics argue that this approach may be biased against people with disabilities, who often face barriers in accessing care. The authors aim to balance life-saving interventions with respect for human dignity.
LSU's wildlife management program offers students a unique educational experience through hunting, connecting them to the wildlife resource and promoting stewardship. The program aims to create the next generation of conservation professionals by teaching holistic knowledge of wildlife.
Researchers at Uppsala University used synchrotron X-rays to study the organ of balance and surrounding blood vessels. The discovery of a drainage system may improve understanding of how Ménière's disease arises from fluid accumulation in the inner ear.
New Cornell research found a link between exposure to TV alcohol ads and drinking behavior, with higher ad exposure correlating to more drinks consumed. The study estimated that nearly 55,000 adults were exposed to over 576 alcohol ads per year.
Research reveals that deep-diving southern elephant seals exploit the bioluminescent flashes of squid and fish to locate prey. The flashes serve as a warning signal for the prey, allowing them to distract potential predators and escape.
A new imaging method detects metabolic and structural changes in cervical epithelial cells using intrinsic fluorescence, enabling early-stage bedside diagnosis. This non-invasive approach opens up a routine monitoring strategy for patients at high risk of cervical cancer.
Serological tests provide snapshot of infection history and immunity in populations. However, they are insufficient for issuing 'immune passports' due to limited specificity, and may lead to biases in testing practices.
A study categorizes innovations with potential to transform the food system, including artificial meat and fine-tuned photosynthesis. To succeed, these innovations require policy conditions and social acceptance.
A recent study by the Media Psychology Lab found that radio consumption increased significantly during lockdown, with listeners tuning in for news, podcasts, and audiobooks. Radio was also rated as the most credible medium, helping to alleviate feelings of sadness, fear, and anxiety.
The University of Tennessee is one of 26 institutions to receive a REEU grant, focusing on integrated pest management. Nineteen students have been selected for the internship program, which will provide training in modern agricultural technology, communication and leadership skills.
Researchers have discovered a rare disease called TRAF7 syndrome, characterized by distinctive facial features, cardiac defects, and intellectual disability. The study analyzed 45 new patients, expanding on previous research with seven individuals, to define the clinical picture of this condition.
Researchers developed an intent-defined optical network (IDON) with artificial intelligence-based automated operation and maintenance to address the challenges of manual configuration. IDON achieves intent-oriented configuration conversion, adaptive generation and optimization strategies, and closed-loop intent-guaranteed operations, d...
A new study found that depression symptoms are associated with reduced cognitive control in individuals with autism. The researchers used a picture-word Stroop test to assess proactive control, which is the ability to plan and prepare how to direct attention. Participants with autism who had more symptoms of depression showed less abil...
California cities can rely on six key strategies to provide for growing populations: conserving water through behavioral changes, reusing non-potable water for irrigation, recycling water for drinking, capturing stormwater runoff, and desalinating seawater. These measures can help reduce costs while increasing the state's water supply.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a high-throughput screening tool to rapidly profile medium-chain fatty acids produced in yeast. They identified seven new genetically engineered mutants that produce higher levels of those fatty acids, which are crucial components of biodiesel and other industrial chemicals.
The Chemical Checker tool uses a similarity principle to analyze over 1M compounds and identify potential treatments for diseases. It has been used to reposition approved drugs for Alzheimer's disease and identify substitutes for expensive biologics.
Tropical Cyclone Amphan has weakened and its eye is covered by high clouds, according to NASA-NOAA's Suomi NPP satellite imagery. The storm is forecast to make landfall near Kolkata on May 20, bringing powerful storms with heavy rainfall potential.
Antibody tests are good enough to monitor COVID-19 spread and guide policy decisions, but understanding test characteristics is crucial for accurate results. By fine-tuning existing tests, policymakers can make informed decisions about interventions and population protection.
The COVID-19 pandemic requires scalable testing technologies, but current methods vary widely, taking hours to complete and requiring extensive resources. Researchers assess various nucleic acid-based tests, highlighting the need for faster and more affordable alternatives.
Researchers at Stanford University School of Engineering used computer simulations to discover how to minimize side effects in a broad class of drugs targeting G protein-coupled receptors. By designing new molecules, they can alter the receptor's shape to deliver beneficial effects while avoiding side effects.
Researchers created a fast, precise and scalable method for individual nano- and submicron scale manipulation in acoustic fields using megahertz frequencies. The technology isolates submicron particles, enabling sorting, patterning and size-selective capture of nanoscale objects.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have found that menopause can reduce cognitive function and potentially play a role in Alzheimer's development in women. Animal studies using surgically induced menopause in rats showed poor memory and learning, indicating a decline in cognitive function.
Researchers developed TransPRECISE to combine molecular data, drug profiling, and cancer cell lines to understand tumor behavior. The tool accurately predicted potential therapeutic efficiency of drugs and identified key targets.
Researchers propose an alternating cycle of strict lockdown (50 days) followed by eased social distancing (30 days) to reduce COVID-19-related deaths and ICU admissions. This strategy may allow populations and economies to 'breathe' at intervals, making it more sustainable in resource-poor regions.
A study of 300,000 commuters in England and Wales found that walking or cycling to work significantly reduced the risk of early death and illness. Cycling was associated with a 20% lower mortality rate compared to driving, while walking was linked to a 7% reduced cancer diagnosis rate.
A newly identified biomarker could help scientists pinpoint which cancers are vulnerable to treatment with biguanides, a common class of medications used to control blood sugar in Type 2 diabetes. The biomarker is linked to the gene MYC and has been found to be regulated by microRNAs that target certain cancer cells.
Scientists developed hollow structured photocatalysts with controllable spatial location of active metals, chemical compositions, and tunable shell thickness. AuPt@HMZS nanoreactors exhibited excellent catalytic activity in cinnamyl alcohol oxidation under visible light.
New technologies, such as artificial meats, 3D printing, and vertical agriculture, hold promise for transforming the global food system. The study identifies an arsenal of highly promising options that can be tailored to different institutional and political contexts.
A long-term study found that residents' daily activities, such as cooking and heating, significantly impact indoor ultrafine particle concentrations. The study, conducted in German apartments, showed that indoor activities account for most ultrafine particles, with outdoor air pollution playing a lesser role.
Scientists measured a significant reduction in CO2 emissions in London during the pandemic, with daily reductions mirroring decreases in traffic flow. The lockdown's impact on air quality and potential changes in behaviors post-lockdown are also being studied.
Researchers found that African American women have a higher risk of breast cancer due to shared genes with white women, including BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB2. Current breast cancer testing panels can be used for African American women, increasing the chances of early detection and prevention.
Texas A&M University researchers aim to develop a smart ventilation control system to minimize the risk of COVID-19 infection in public buildings. The project seeks to investigate a smart ventilation control system that can operate in both normal and emergency modes, utilizing factors such as outdoor air dilution and humidity levels.
A new clinical trial protocol has been created to rapidly assess the efficacy of hydroxychlorquine and azithromycin in treating hospitalized patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19. The study aims to recruit up to 300 participants and monitor their progress for 14 days.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new interlayer that improves the stability and performance of solid-state batteries. The soft, 'butter-like' material fills several functions and can be easily applied to the lithium metal anode.
Researchers found that the transport of electronic charge in strontium ruthenate breaks rotational symmetry, exhibiting 'electronic nematicity' similar to liquid crystals. This phenomenon may explain the material's unconventional superconductivity and could lead to the design of efficient superconductors.
YIV-906, a first-in-class botanical drug candidate developed through NFCR funding, commences Phase IIB clinical trials for hepatitis B-associated liver cancer. The drug has demonstrated safety and promising efficacy in early-stage trials and may improve survival and quality of life for patients.
Researchers have discovered a potential coronavirus therapy using structural biology and X-ray crystallography. The study revealed that antibodies derived from SARS survivors can potently block entry of SARS-CoV-2 into host cells, with one candidate antibody showing promising results.
A new study suggests that aggressive carbon taxation in the US could help meet its Paris Agreement targets by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The research found that only limited opportunities for decarbonization exist outside of the electricity sector, but significant revenue can be generated from carbon taxes.
A new ground-based GCR Simulator developed by NASA enables the simultaneous study of mixed-field ions and their effects on human tissues. This breakthrough reduces animal testing costs and accelerates understanding of health risks faced by astronauts.
A new study by researchers at the University of Copenhagen found that king penguins in Antarctica emit massive amounts of nitrous oxide via their feces, which is 300 times more polluting than CO2. The high levels of nitrous oxide are due to the combination of guano with hydrogen sulfide and other gases.
Regular endurance training and good fitness levels protect against serious cardiovascular events and early mortality for people diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. The study found that participants with the lowest calculated fitness levels had the highest mortality risk, but those who met physical activity recommendations lived longer.
Researchers have developed an algorithm that combines gradient methods with fast Fourier transforms to quantify the organization of cardiac myofibrils in heart cells, providing a better understanding of heart cell defects. The technique has potential applications in advanced drug screens and cell-based therapies.
Researchers at Anhui University and Nanjing University successfully constructed 1D linear chains, 2D grid networks, and 3D superstructures from Ag29(SSR)12 nano-building blocks. The hierarchical self-assembly enables remarkable optical absorptions and gas storage properties in the assembled frameworks.
Scientists have developed a new prototype that amplifies signals up to 10,000-fold, enabling the monitoring of rapid chemical processes on the milliseconds timescale. This breakthrough allows for the analytical characterization of pre-nucleation species in biomineralization, challenging current theoretical frameworks.
A new study by UC Santa Cruz reveals that field courses help build self-confidence among students, particularly those from underrepresented groups. The research shows that students who participate in field courses are more likely to graduate, have higher GPAs, and stay in the ecology and evolutionary biology major.
Researchers at MUSC have found a connection between a defective copy of the MEF2C gene and autism behaviors. This rare form of autism is caused by one of two MEF2C genes in each cell being nonfunctioning, leading to issues such as language difficulties, epilepsy, and breathing problems.