The COVID-19 crisis has already changed the research community, enabling international collaboration and accelerated data sharing. Biomedical researchers now advocate for smart, lasting investments in global health to address chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer.
Nearly a quarter of Africa's population will catch coronavirus and up to 190,000 may die unless urgent action is taken. The World Health Organization warns that strained health resources will worsen the impact of the virus.
A compact sensor system using modified carbon nanotubes detects high concentrations of nitrogen dioxide in exhaled air, indicating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or other respiratory issues. The device's sensitivity is shown to detect biomarkers for specific diseases, including lung cancer and asthma.
Researchers confirm three historic earthquakes on the San Andreas Fault in the Monterey Bay Area, occurring in 1838, 1890, and 1906, using a new model that accounts for charcoal inbuilt ages. The study uses a technique called wiggle matching to determine precise dates and recurrence intervals.
Researchers at Duke University have developed a new imaging device that can measure the thickness and texture of the retina, potentially providing an early warning system for Alzheimer's disease. The device combines two technologies to spot structural changes in the retina, which could be indicative of the disease.
The American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics has released an updated technical standard for CFTR variant testing, incorporating revised information about cystic fibrosis and the CFTR gene. The new guidelines aim to improve the accuracy and efficiency of genetic screening and diagnosis.
Researchers at EPFL have developed an algorithm to design artificial proteins that precisely guide the body's immune system to produce specific antibodies. The proteins were tested in animal models, triggering a strong immune response against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a leading cause of serious lung infections.
Icosapent ethyl significantly reduces first and subsequent revascularizations, including coronary stenting and cardiac bypass surgery, in statin-treated patients with elevated triglycerides. The study found a 34% reduction in first revascularization events and higher reductions in subsequent events among statin-stabilized patients.
Daniel Preston, a Rice engineer, has received a National Science Foundation grant to investigate the effect of varying temperatures on SARS-CoV-2. His project aims to provide evidence-based guidelines for PPE sterilization and predict virus lifetime in different climates.
The COVID-19 pandemic is already influencing terrorism globally, with mixed results on attack levels and increased online extremist activity. Long-term concerns include weakened states' vulnerability to terrorist groups' resurgence.
Researchers found that the malaria parasite, P. falciparum, has a 48-hour developmental cycle with synchronous release of parasites from red blood cells, triggering fever cycles in humans. The study suggests that parasites have evolved mechanisms to precisely maintain periodicity.
Researchers discovered distinct microbiotypes in giant clams, with one linked to clam mortality. The study highlights the impact of benthic species assemblages on giant clam health, suggesting a negative correlation with increasing water temperatures.
Researchers used chest X-rays to identify patients at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19. A unique scoring system evaluated lung patterns, predicting outcomes and guiding treatment for high-risk patients.
Three carnivorous plant species, including Venus flytrap, sundew, and waterwheel, have a shared genetic basis for their insect-trapping mechanisms. Despite their unique adaptations, these plants are among the most gene-poor known, with fewer genes than most other plants.
Researchers have successfully modified brain activity using non-invasive techniques and characterized its dynamics. The study provides foundational knowledge for future technologies that may expedite cognitive processes and enable adaptive teaming neurotechnologies.
Researchers surveyed US citizens before and after the 2014 Ebola outbreak, finding relative complacency regarding pandemic threats. Their study suggests policymakers should not rely on public perception when it comes to disease threats.
A novel telemedicine-based network has been established to provide remote guidance to over 100 million STEMI patients in Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, and Argentina. The program has shown significant benefits, including reduced mortality by 55% and cost savings of $291 million.
Early studies indicate COVID-19 genetic material can be detected in stool samples, but it's unclear if infectious virus is present. Further research is needed to determine the risk of transmission through feces.
An international team has discovered that the high local concentration of vapors in city streets accelerates nanoparticle growth, contributing to winter smog's particulate matter. Climate researchers attribute this process to the condensation of ammonia and nitric acid onto nanoparticles, causing rapid growth within minutes.
The NIH is sponsoring a Phase 2b trial to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin in preventing hospitalization and death from COVID-19. The trial will enroll approximately 2,000 adults across the US with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection.
A multidisciplinary team found that incorporating home ranging behavior into encounter rates could drastically change results, but only under narrow conditions. The more realistic models mimicked mass-action encounter only in specific scenarios, making it challenging to predict the direction of predictions.
Researchers from SUTD and international partners developed a theoretical descriptor to quantitatively design PET-based fluorescence probes, accelerating biological research. The descriptor enables the accurate prediction and development of new fluorescent stains for live cell bioimaging.
The TWILIGHT trial found that bioabsorbable polymer DES (BP-EES) performed similarly to durable polymer DES (DP-DES) in high-risk patients undergoing PCI. The study also showed a lower frequency of prior MI in BP-EES patients compared to DP-DES patients.
Scientists have developed a new treatment to reduce swelling after brain and spinal cord injuries, offering hope to 75 million victims worldwide. The breakthrough uses the already-licensed anti-psychotic medicine trifluoperazine to alter aquaporin behaviour in cells, preventing cell swelling and pressure build-up.
A study found that large striped bass from Chesapeake Bay migrate to ocean waters when they reach 32 inches in length, while smaller fish remain resident. This new understanding can aid fisheries management by providing tailored catch and size limits.
A new study reveals that CFC replacements are accumulating in the Canadian Arctic, with levels of degradation products tenfold increasing between 1986 and 2014. The findings suggest that these substances are as concerning as their predecessors and do not break down, posing a threat to the ecosystem.
Scientists at Northern Arizona University are developing a new test technology using Single Molecule Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy to detect SARS-CoV-2 virus. The method aims to overcome challenges of existing tests, including false negatives and high costs.
A new study suggests that corn was not grown in Cahokia until between A.D. 900 and 1000, a relatively late date corresponding to the start of the city's rapid expansion. The researchers analyzed charred corn kernels and carbon isotopes in human teeth and bones, revealing a sudden increase in corn consumption around this time.
Patients favor expert guidance in healthcare decisions, rather than full autonomy, according to new research from University of Chicago Booth School of Business Professors Emma Levine and Celia Gaertig. In experiments, participants preferred paternalistic advice over autonomy, even when the outcome was unfavorable.
A new study by UMD researchers highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaborations in reducing global food waste due to date labeling. The study aims to clarify the science or lack thereof behind food date labels, with a focus on developing interventions to reduce behaviors that increase food waste.
Researchers report that vitamin B3 niacin boosts energy metabolism and slows disease progression in mitochondrial myopathy patients by increasing NAD+ levels in blood and muscle tissue. The study reveals niacin's therapeutic effect in delaying disease progression, offering a promising treatment option for this progressive muscle disease.
Scientists have developed a new method called CIDER-Seq to sequence circular DNA, providing insight into its function in bacterial and viral genomes. The tool also sheds light on extrachromosomal circular DNA in human and plant cells, which has been difficult to study due to the lack of effective methods.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology developed a new robot rover, the Mini Rover, that can climb sand-covered hills and avoid getting stuck. The rover uses a unique gait that combines paddling, walking, and wheel spinning motions to create a robust and adaptable locomotion system.
Researchers at MPIE and RUB have found that anharmonicity and segregation affect interstitial ordering in Fe-C steels. The study's findings suggest a critical concentration range for the order-disorder transition, which can be precisely calculated using specific binding energy and defect information.
Scientists have discovered that malaria's characteristic cycle of fever and chills is controlled by an intrinsic biological oscillator within the parasite. The study found that 87-92% of tracked genes were cyclical, providing strong evidence for an innate control mechanism.
Researchers found that excessive antioxidants can lead to pathological changes in hearts, causing enlarged hearts and diastolic dysfunction. Chronic antioxidant consumption without knowing one's redox state might result in reductive stress, which can induce pathology and slowly damage the heart.
Plant breathing reduces Arctic land surface temperature, but rising CO2 accelerates warming by closing stomata and reducing transpiration. This study confirms the physiological forcing effect on Arctic climate system, estimating that 10% of greenhouse effect is caused by plant stomatal closure.
Research finds that people with Type 2 diabetes experience worse cognitive performance after a stroke compared to those without the condition. However, prediabetes is not associated with similar cognitive decline, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.
The SCAI has released an expert consensus statement outlining recommendations for the management of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests. The guidelines emphasize a continuum of care from pre-hospital to hospital and post-hospital phases to enhance survival and quality of life.
After allogeneic stem cell transplantation, a critical window of vulnerability exists for re-infection with HIV. New T-cell responses to HIV proteins from donor cells develop after this time, indicating a weak point that may explain incomplete removal of the virus.
Researchers create a mouse model that can identify different cell types as they emerge and what genes each is turning on, providing a greater understanding of development, aging and disease. This system uses CRISPR gene editing technology and 'barcoding' to track thousands of cells simultaneously.
Researchers detail accurate privacy-enhanced genome-wide association studies of over 25,000 individuals using homomorphic encryption to yield results 30 times faster than prior secure computation methods. The technology enables collaboration on large-scale genomic and clinical studies while protecting individual participant privacy.
Researchers at Surrey's Advanced Technology Institute develop a new three-layer composite using carbon nanotubes, PANI, and hydrothermal carbon that demonstrates remarkable rate-capability at high energy densities.
A study of nearly 500,000 patients found that significant weight loss before bariatric surgery was associated with a higher risk of death within 30 days after surgery. Researchers examined the correlation between pre-surgery weight and post-operative mortality in patients undergoing bariatric surgery.
Scientists have discovered that malaria parasites have an intrinsic clock controlling their invasion of human cells. This finding opens up new avenues for treating the disease by disrupting its biological rhythms.
Researchers conducted a two-center trial of autologous CD34+ cell therapy in 20 NOCAD patients with persistent angina, showing significant improvement in coronary flow reserve, angina frequency, and quality of life. The results demonstrate the potential of CD34+ cell therapy as a promising therapy for CMD patients with angina and NOCAD.
Researchers found activated T cells in brain tissue of MS patients, indicating local inflammation is driving the disease. This discovery supports the idea that white blood cells on the outside of the brain no longer influence the disease in advanced stages.
Researchers created a new computational protein design approach called Topobuilder to engineer de novo immunogens with complex epitopes. The approach successfully generated a robust immune response against RSV in mouse and non-human primate models.
Researchers at Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg have developed a method to significantly improve the properties of inexpensive nickel hydroxide electrodes during electrolysis. The treatment process increases the material's stability and activity, allowing it to outperform more expensive catalysts.
A team of researchers has developed an approach to stimulate the visual cortex, allowing blind and sighted people to perceive shapes. By tracing outlines with electrical stimulation, participants were able to correctly identify letters and forms, demonstrating a potential method for regaining vision in blind individuals.
A study by University of Washington professor Dafeng Xu found that bike-share systems can drive a population to commute by bike, increasing rates by 20% in US cities. Larger bike-share systems experience sharper increases in bicycle commuting, making cycling a more accessible and appealing option for commuters.
A new study projects that over 28 million elective surgeries will be cancelled globally, with orthopaedic procedures and cancer surgeries being the most affected. The backlog of cancelled surgeries may take 11 months to clear if hospitals increase their weekly capacity by 20%.
A University of Missouri Health Care neurologist has published new recommendations for evaluating and treating stroke patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection. The guidelines take into account increased clotting in COVID-19 patients, which raises their risk for stroke, and suggest modifications to manage these patients.
A new study has shown that patients with intermediate left main coronary artery disease are at a higher risk of cardiovascular events compared to those without the condition. The ISCHEMIA trial sub study found no significant difference in outcomes between invasive and conservative strategies for these patients.
The James Webb Space Telescope has achieved a significant milestone by being fully folded and stowed into its launch configuration. The observatory will unfold and stretch itself out in space before making groundbreaking observations of the cosmos.
Researchers propose a blockchain-based system called ORBI to streamline pathogen information exchange between public and private institutions. This decentralized system would preserve individual researcher stakes while ensuring tamper-proof data documentation.
A study of 7,000 adults aged 65 found that those with dementia and poor vision experience significant limitations in self-care, mobility, and household activities. The research highlights the need for better support systems to address these challenges.
The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions has released comprehensive guidelines for selecting devices used in aorto-iliac arterial interventions. The recommendations aim to provide clinicians with practical guidance based on comparative effectiveness data.
A new study analyzed ancient genomes from across China to fill gaps in East Asia's genetic history. Analysis revealed a complex history of human movements and one major episode of admixture during the Neolithic period.
Researchers at Rice University have created a 2D Janus compound that enhances the detection of biomolecules via surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy. The nonmetallic material boosts signal strength, reducing background noise and improving detection limits.