The COVID-19 pandemic is disrupting the chemistry industry, with academic jobs facing hiring freezes and reduced pay. Despite this, certain sectors like pharmaceuticals and biotechnology are experiencing increased demand and hiring opportunities.
Scientists have measured the velocity of seismic waves in iron-sulfur alloys thought to comprise Mars' core, providing crucial information about the planet's internal structure. This study simulates the Martian core's composition and origin, helping researchers compare observations with Martian space probes.
A new study explains the mechanisms of COVID-19, revealing how the virus triggers an immune system overreaction, resulting in a cytokine storm. This can lead to respiratory failure, as well as damage to organs such as the heart and kidneys. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and supporting organ function.
A global survey of 533 workers from 49 countries found that most would continue to work when sick with flu-like symptoms, including fever. The study highlights the need for cultural change and sufficient sick leave to prevent transmission of respiratory diseases in workplaces.
Astronomers have detected elusive pulsation patterns in dozens of young Delta Scuti stars using NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS). The discovery will revolutionize scientists' ability to study the ages, sizes and compositions of these stars.
Researchers discovered microscopic feather features in cassowaries, revealing the mechanism behind their glossy black shine. They also analyzed a 52-million-year-old fossil bird's feathers, finding structural colors that challenge previous assumptions about extinct species.
Researchers identified novel region-specific molecular markers for targeting specific subpopulations of dopamine D2 receptor neurons in the striatum, revealing functional specificity among these neuron populations. The study found that D2 neurons in different areas of the brain express distinct proteins and exhibit altered functions.
A team of UC Santa Barbara researchers proposes a technique called SPARC to manipulate certain parameters in a mathematical gut microbiome model toward a target composition. This approach offers a systematic understanding of how environmental factors and species interactions can be controlled to achieve a stable gut microbiome.
A research team at Pohang University of Science & Technology has developed an integrative cancer therapy using adoptive natural killer cell therapy and chemotherapy. The new method enhances the effectiveness of cell therapy in treating solid cancers by selectively releasing anticancer drugs, reducing side effects.
A team of researchers from the University of Pittsburgh has developed a novel textile coating that can repel viruses and bacteria, making it potential candidate for creating safely reusable personal protective equipment (PPE). The coating was tested against adenovirus types 4 and 7 and shown to be effective in repelling these viruses.
Researchers identified gene sets linked to protective responses in malaria vaccine trials, highlighting the role of TLR4 and NF-κB in immunity. Pre-immunization signatures also showed promise in identifying non-responders who may benefit from immune priming or interventions.
Researchers used the 'gene' theory to predict new families of HTSCs in cubic zinc-blende transition metal compounds. Theoretical analysis showed a d-wave superconducting state with nodes in diagonal directions, breaking time reversal symmetry.
A new study led by the University of Stirling will use satellite technology to monitor invasive aquatic weeds in neglected water bodies in India. The project aims to detect regrowth early and prevent damage to fisheries, drinking water sources, and agricultural irrigation.
The EULAR 2020 study investigates the connection between breast cancer, anti-hormonal therapy, and rheumatoid arthritis. The results show that the risk of breast cancer in women with RA is lower than in women with healthy joints, and no association was found between anti-hormonal breast cancer prophylaxis and later RA.
A study published in BMJ Global Health found that 1 in 4 most viewed COVID-19 videos on YouTube in English contain misleading or inaccurate information. This misinformation has the potential to harm, especially with its high viewership.
Researchers found that partly random selected leaders are less prone to misusing their power, making decisions beneficial to the group. Competitive selection methods trigger leadership hubris, leading to detrimental outcomes.
The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America has released a white paper addressing the legal implications of antibiotic stewardship programs, highlighting strategies to reduce liability and improve program structure. The guidance emphasizes the importance of protocols, documentation practices, and credentialing for ASP team members.
A new study from the University of Bath reveals that blockchain technology can improve food quality and ensure consumer safety by providing transparency throughout the supply chain. The system creates a record of actions that is difficult to change, allowing companies to offer data and reassurance about product provenance.
A team of researchers identified a previously unknown genetic variant in the FBN1 gene that is strongly associated with lower height in Peruvians and Native Americans. The variant, E1297G, was found exclusively in individuals of Native American ancestry and showed an average effect of 2.2 centimeters reduction in height.
Researchers at University at Buffalo have developed a method to produce millions of mature human cells in mouse embryos, which could lead to game-changing stem cell treatments for critical diseases. The technique involves converting human pluripotent stem cells into a form compatible with the inner cell mass inside a mouse blastocyst, ...
Researchers investigated associations between 26 common medical conditions and alcohol use among 2.7 million patients. The study found significant links between certain health issues, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, and excessive drinking.
Researchers at the University of Reading studied historic records from a Scottish research station to investigate how Cold War nuclear bomb tests affected rainfall. They found that cloudy days with high radioactivity generated charge were associated with thicker clouds and 24% more rain.
Researchers at UNSW Sydney have developed a new imaging technique that uses the color of cells as a 'thermometer' for molecular imbalance. This technology has the potential to revolutionize medical diagnostics by allowing scientists to detect and decode cell colors without needing to extract samples from the body.
Researchers have developed a novel freeze-thaw method to create noble metal aerogels with high surface areas and self-healing properties. These aerogels exhibit impressive light-driven photoelectrocatalytic performance, outperforming commercial palladium-on-carbon catalysts.
Researchers have discovered that polymers formed from the union of circular and linear components display slower molecular dynamics due to the 'harpooning' effect between heads and tails. This leads to a more viscous compound with potential applications in materials engineering and pharmaceuticals.
Researchers are developing a vaccine targeting the spike protein, aiming to establish an immune response that protects against SARS-CoV-2 infection. The partnership with Tonix Pharmaceuticals accelerates the process, leveraging their expertise in product development.
Researchers at Florida State University have found that even minor changes in atmospheric conditions can lead to the development of hurricanes. The study used numerical models to simulate cloud formation and found that most simulations produced major hurricanes in a range of latitudes, including areas near the equator.
A new study developed a non-invasive molecular imaging approach using dynamic MRI to measure glucose level changes in the brain lymphatic system. This method helps identify Alzheimer's disease at early stages, allowing treatments to start promptly. The technique uses glucose as a 'tracer' and is compatible with existing MRI machines, m...
A recent six-year study on video game addiction found that about 90% of gamers do not play in a way that is harmful or causes negative long-term consequences. However, a significant minority can become truly addicted to video games, suffering mentally and socially. The study identified predictors such as being male and having low level...
Comet SWAN was first spotted in April 2020 using data from SOHO's Solar Wind Anisotropies instrument, releasing huge amounts of water into space. It is the 3,932nd comet discovered using SOHO data and will make its closest approach to Earth on May 13 at a distance of about 53 million miles
Researchers tested three passive samples and found lower effective sampling rates due to incorrect mass transfer correction factors. They also discovered a diffusion isotope effect affecting ammonia isotope compositions, with a significant bias of 15.4‰ in urban Beijing.
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University documented adult blacktip sharks fleeing to shallow waters when confronted by large great hammerhead sharks. The study provides the first evidence of adults using these waters as a refuge, leveraging UAVs to observe natural behaviors without disrupting them.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that endosalpingiosis (ES) and other gynecological lesions occur at a higher rate than previously thought, even among women without cancer. The researchers suggest that ES is not directly linked to cancer development, contrary to initial suspicions.
A recent study analyzing Medicaid claims data found a lower prevalence of food allergy among enrolled children (0.6%) compared to previous estimates (7.6%). The research suggests potential under-diagnosis and highlights disparities in adequate management, particularly for racial and ethnic groups.
Microbeam radiation therapy (MRT) uses high-energy X-ray beams to target tumors while sparing healthy tissue. The research team has identified the optimal energy range and developed a precise measurement detector technique to ensure safety and effectiveness for human treatment.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have identified a previously unknown mechanism that enables the rapid growth of atmospheric particles. This discovery could help model climate change and reduce air pollution in cities by explaining how tiny particles form and grow.
Researchers at Université catholique de Louvain discovered that cancer cells can deactivate the CD166 'Velcro' protein on their surface, allowing them to migrate more easily and form metastases. This fundamental mechanism may lead to the development of new solutions to block metastasis and slow down cancer progression.
A new study reveals that children with cancer in New York are disproportionately affected by COVID-19, with a higher risk of severe illness. The research highlights the importance of prioritizing vaccine administration and infection control measures to protect these vulnerable patients.
The LCSB researchers are coordinating an international collaboration to build a COVID-19 Disease Map, a comprehensive repository of virus-host interaction mechanisms. The map will support research and improve our understanding of the disease by providing a graphical, interactive representation of the disease mechanisms.
Researchers at Kyoto University have created a coordination polymer glass membrane that functions similarly to liquid-based counterparts but offers improved mechanical and thermal stability. The new membrane enables efficient proton movement under dry conditions, leading to higher voltage production in hydrogen fuel cells.
A team at Tohoku University has discovered a new principle for room-temperature superionic conduction, enabling the creation of safer and more energy-dense batteries. By using pseudorotation of transition metal hydride complexes, they achieved lithium ion conductivities of up to 79 mS cm^-1 at room temperature.
Two neutralizing antibodies, B38 and H4, have been identified against SARS-CoV-2. Preliminary tests in a mouse model show reduced virus titers, suggesting therapeutic benefits and potential for vaccine development.
A new study found that humpback whales are at risk of collision with vessels in the Magellan Strait, with some individuals encountering ships up to 18 times per season. The researchers propose speed limits and mandatory observers on commercial vessels to reduce the risk of injury or death.
The study created flexible single crystal electronic systems by using organic semiconductors that can be stretched over 10%, exceeding the elastic limit of most single crystals. This breakthrough could enable new applications in sensors and robotics.
A new study by University of Maryland researchers suggests that long legs evolved among the biggest dinosaurs to help them conserve energy and go the distance while searching for prey. The study found that larger dinosaur species with longer legs needed less energy to move, giving them an advantage in terms of efficiency.
A new treatment combination of atezolizumab and bevacizumab has significantly improved survival for people with hepatocellular carcinoma, reducing mortality risk by 42% and increasing cancer response rates. The therapy is being reviewed for FDA approval under a Real-Time Oncology Review pilot program.
Researchers have discovered a class of pulsating stars with remarkably regular high-frequency pulsation modes, opening up new ways to determine the masses and internal structures of these intermediate-sized stars. This breakthrough uses precise data from NASA's TESS mission to cut through noise and reveal clear patterns.
Researchers identify four areas of stress: occupational hazards, process inefficiencies, financial instability, and national vs. local responses. Mitigation strategies include improved PPE, training, and disaster management plans to reduce burnout among healthcare workers.
Biomedical engineers at Duke University developed a massive fluid dynamics simulator to model blood flow through the full human arterial system, providing guidance for treatment plans. A new graphical user interface called Harvis allows clinicians to easily explore options without expertise in computer science.
A recent study found a significant decrease in PM2.5 concentrations in eastern China and corresponding reductions in heavily polluted days. However, surface ozone levels have been increasing in most cities during the same period, indicating stronger photochemical pollution.
A study of nearly 1,300 individuals with ASD found that many receive recommended genetic tests, but factors such as insurance coverage and provider recommendations influence the rates. The findings highlight the importance of personalized approach to genetic testing for individuals with ASD.
Analysis of data from 147 countries found a strong association between rising incomes and increasing obesity rates, with an average increase in obesity rates for every 1% rise in GDP per capita. The study suggests that policy initiatives may be necessary to combat obesity in low- and middle-income countries undergoing income growth.
Researchers developed a new robot called the Mini Rover that can climb hills covered with loose material and avoid getting stuck. Using a complex motion called rear rotator pedaling, the rover combines paddling, walking, and wheel spinning motions to maintain forward progress.
A CNIO-led European study has confirmed that diabetes type 3c is an early manifestation of pancreatic cancer, allowing for earlier diagnosis and treatment. The study found that pancreatic cancer is the cause of the development of diabetes type 3c in 26% of cases.
Researchers from IOCB Prague synthesized regular 2D assemblies of isotopically labelled molecular switches, measuring their isomerization properties. The team found that formation of the assembly does not compromise the photochemical switching properties of the embedded molecules.
Researchers found that US wind plants experience relatively low performance decline over time, with a 13% drop in 17 years. Performance drops significantly after the production tax credit window closes, but at a lower rate than European wind fleets.
Researchers found that communities doubting establishment health guidance are more effective than government agencies at engaging undecided individuals on Facebook. Anti-vaccination communities offer diverse narratives that can appeal to a broader audience, while pro-vaccination communities focus on established public health benefits.
Researchers found that six months of aerobic exercise improved executive function and verbal fluency by 5.7% and 2.4%, respectively. Blood flow to the brain increased significantly with exercise, associated with modest but significant improvements in thinking abilities.
The prevention of polio epidemics is a signature success of science in the 20th century. A new vaccine developed by Jonas Salk and later improved upon by Albert Sabin helped eradicate polio in the West, with the disease no longer a serious threat.
The American College of Physicians has issued new Practice Points stating that hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin do not support COVID-19 prophylaxis or treatment. However, they may be used in clinical trials with informed decision-making. Additionally, research suggests that RT-PCR tests for SARS-CoV-2 have low sensitivity, particula...