A virtual reality forest created by geographers can let people walk through a simulated forest of today and see potential future scenarios. The researchers used data on a typical Wisconsin forest to create a more organic, natural feel, allowing visitors to experience the changes brought on by climate change.
Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital found an association between finasteride and suicidality in younger men taking the drug for hair loss. The study suggests that risk of suicidality should be considered when prescribing finasteride to these patients.
A new study published in PLOS ONE explores how political ideology and moral values are connected to motivated social cognition. The research found that liberals are driven by empathic motivation, while conservatives are linked to authoritarianism and a desire for order, indicating a deeper psychological divide between the two ideologies.
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have discovered that blocking OX40L and CD30L, two key immune molecules, is crucial to preventing asthma attacks. The study shows how these molecules contribute to inflammation in the lungs during an allergic reaction.
Researchers found a new metric, PPT, that quantifies impaired sensory acuity after TBI, which is associated with higher balance dysfunction. This study has implications for rehabilitating individuals with TBI.
A team of scientists developed a soft, 3D silicone surface that replicates the topography and wettability of a real human tongue. The biomimetic surface demonstrated similar frictional properties to an actual human tongue, making it suitable for studying mechanical interactions with food, liquids, and medicines.
A recent study published in Demography found that Black homeowners are twice as likely to lose their homes compared to white homeowners, with kin network wealth and poverty accounting for a significant portion of the gap. The researchers examined the impact of trigger events and found that having impoverished relatives can be a burden,...
Researchers Mirko Kovac and Aslan Miriyev propose merging artificial intelligence with physical bodies to create lifelike robots. By combining materials science, biology, and computer science, they aim to achieve symbiosis between humans and machines.
Researchers at the University of Groningen have developed an efficient organic thermoelectric material made from buckyballs with organic side chains. This breakthrough enhances the material's ability to convert temperature differences into electricity, making it suitable for powering wearable electronics and sensors.
A large international consortium has sequenced the genome of 130 mammals and analyzed existing data to identify important DNA positions. This information can help researchers understand disease mutations in humans and preserve endangered species.
Researchers have discovered a new electrocatalyst, Hf2B2Ir5, that exhibits high activity in the oxygen evolution reaction during water electrolysis. The material's cage-like crystal structure and cooperative phases enable stable and efficient performance over long periods.
Researchers found human editing enzymes behind a COVID-19 virus mutation that stimulates pro-inflammatory molecule release. The mutation altered innate immune responses, and further study is needed to determine its impact on virus elimination or symptom aggravation.
Research found that pathogens with intermediate virulence are most evolutionarily successful, as they balance harm and transmission. This challenges conventional wisdom that new diseases evolve to become harmless.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital found that expanded access to health insurance significantly reduced ambulance dispatches for asthma emergencies in New York City. Improved access to outpatient management of the chronic condition is believed to be the likely reason for this decline.
Researchers found evidence suggesting that relatively close supernovas could have triggered four disruptions to Earth's climate over the last 40,000 years. The study used tree ring records to search for fingerprints of distant cosmic explosions, with promising candidates including a 13,000-year-old Vela supernova.
The study reveals rare behavior of the Bigfin Squid in the Great Australian Bight, providing new insights into its distribution patterns. Multiple observations suggest a deeper understanding of this deep-sea species can be gained through further research.
Researchers at MIT developed a two-layered material that provides extended cooling using evaporation, inspired by camel fur. The system can keep perishable goods fresh for up to eight days and has potential applications in food packaging and pharmaceutical storage.
The study found a 16% lower mortality rate among patients who triggered an alert from the Advance Alert Monitor system. Patients with AAM alerts had lower ICU admission rates, shorter hospital length of stay, and lower mortality within 30 days of an alert.
A new study from USC reveals that older people's behavior changed over time during the pandemic, with a notable increase in preventive behaviors by May. The researchers found that certain groups, including Blacks, Hispanics, and Asians, exhibited consistently higher preventive behavioral responses.
Zi Chen's research project aims to identify biomechanical mechanisms driving early embryonic brain and heart development. The study may lead to a better understanding of birth defects such as situs inversus, which affects organ placement and replacement.
Researchers developed a new method for designing spontaneous behaviors in robots, inspired by complex temporal patterns in animal brains. The approach uses high-dimensional chaos and reservoir computing to implement humanlike cognitive functions.
Effective early interventions can speed recovery, reduce severe outcomes, and alleviate healthcare demands for patients with mild COVID-19 symptoms. Research is ongoing to repurpose existing antivirals and develop new therapies targeting SARS-CoV-2.
The US EPA has listed 1,4-dioxane as a likely carcinogen due to its persistence in water. Advanced oxidation processes can remove it, but are expensive and energy-intensive. Communities using wells for public drinking water are especially prone to contamination.
A study published by investigators at Massachusetts General Hospital reveals that patients with type 2 myocardial infarction often receive inconsistent care. The research indicates that patients evaluated by cardiologists are more likely to undergo stress tests and heart imaging exams, and have higher rates of follow-up cardiology visits.
A national study of general practices in England found that diagnostic error (60%), medication incidents (25%), and delayed referrals (11%) are the main causes of avoidable harm. Researchers identified patient factors such as old age and multiple health problems, highlighting challenges in protecting patients from harm.
Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a new and efficient way to create nanographene, a material that is expected to revolutionize technology. The method uses an atomic force microscope (AFM) to precisely control the fabrication process, allowing for the creation of tailored nanographene formations.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have created a new tool called DISCO that enables the analysis of individual cells in their natural environment. The method combines cell microscopy with single-cell omics platforms, allowing scientists to study stem cells and other rare cell types in greater detail.
Researchers from MD Anderson Cancer Center present promising clinical data on combination therapies for patients with metastatic melanoma and advanced refractory solid tumors. The treatments showed activity in activating immune pathways, leading to antitumor responses.
The study, published in Genes and Development, reveals the role of signaling pathways in regulating cell behavior, including proliferation, death, and migration. The research team identified new signaling outputs that function independently of established FGF signal transduction pathways, particularly in cell adhesion.
The new European consensus statement provides practical recommendations for diagnosing and treating osteoporosis in advanced stage CKD. The guidelines aim to reduce the care gap and promote proactive fragility fracture prevention in high-risk patients.
A survey of over 5,000 people in China found that longer quarantines were associated with poorer well-being. However, experiencing the mental state of flow reduced or eliminated this link. Flow was linked to better well-being, including less loneliness and more positive emotion.
Researchers found that neurofilament light protein levels in the blood can predict stroke severity and prognosis, as well as anticipate future recovery. Higher NFL levels forecast worse functional outcomes and shorter survival time after a stroke. This discovery establishes NFL as a promising prognostic biomarker for stroke.
Physicist David Wolpert developed a hybrid formalism to analyze far-from-equilibrium systems with explicitly distinguished subsystems. The formalism combines advances in nonequilibrium statistical physics and graphical models, allowing for the study of nanoscale systems like biological cells.
Researchers have developed a new technology that precisely and rapidly degrades targeted proteins in various organisms. The AID2 system overcomes previous drawbacks of slow degradation rates and requires lower doses of auxin.
The DO-HEALTH study suggests that vitamin D and omega-3 supplementation may have significant positive effects on lowering infection rates and systolic blood pressure in healthy older adults who lead an active lifestyle. However, the study found no benefits for bone health, muscle function, or memory.
Scientists have developed a bilayer passive cooling technology inspired by camel fur, which can keep objects cool for an extended period of time without electricity. The technology demonstrates that the design keeps products cool five times longer than conventional single-layer approaches.
Michigan Technological University and University of Massachusetts researchers develop a way to mimic the body's environment in vaccines, keeping viruses stable through crowding. This method has potential to improve access to vaccinations against various viruses, bypassing the cold chain.
A new study uses CLARITY technique to visualize opioid receptor distribution across the entire brain in 3D images, revealing previously unknown areas susceptible to opioids. The researchers identified extensive tracts related to pain and reward, as well as many neural tracts not previously known to express opioid receptors.
Researchers at Osaka University have created a label-free method for identifying respiratory viruses based on changes in electrical current through silicon nanopores. This new system uses machine learning to achieve highly accurate virus classification, with potential applications for COVID-19 and influenza diagnosis.
Researchers at Osaka University found that Polβ prevents DNA breaks in brain cells of the hippocampus during early postnatal development, supporting cognitive development. The study also reveals a link between DNA demethylation and increased double-stranded breaks, which can lead to altered gene expression and impaired memory formation.
A new study finds that telemedicine can significantly reduce dermatology consult times, from 84 days to under five hours. The study suggests that this approach does not increase utilization or costs, making it a viable option for expanding telemedicine use.
A new study found that noise and light pollution alter bird nesting habits and success in North America. Birds responding to increased light may track climate change better than those in darker habitats. Noise pollution affects birds differently, with forested environments being more sensitive to noise.
Researchers found unusually warm water and an active ecosystem in the Bering and Chukchi seas, defying late-season expectations. The discovery highlights delays in sea ice formation supporting late-season biological production, and shifts in benthic animals' biomass.
A longitudinal study of almost 85,000 people found that a combination of lifestyle interventions including optimal sleep and reduced screen time can help prevent depression. Additionally, healthy dietary patterns and physical activity were also associated with lower rates of depressed mood.
Researchers found that calls about code violations, public health issues, and street lighting were the best indicators of opioid use in Columbus communities. The study suggests that data from 311 calls can be an effective opioid overdose surveillance indicator to direct outreach and resources to where they are needed.
Researchers observed wrinkle-faced bats displaying unique mating behavior, using a mask-like face fold during copulation. This rare lek courtship behavior was previously unknown in bat species, with only 12 instances found across mammals.
Researchers at Polytechnique Montréal have created a new fluorescent organic light-emitting diode (OLED) that is 300% more efficient than existing OLEDs in its category, reaching a quantum efficiency of 3.8%. The breakthrough could enable the use of infrared OLEDs in smartphones and other devices.
Scientists calculate that rare signals from dark matter can be detected by GPS atomic clocks and magnetometers, adding to multi-messenger astronomy
A team of UTSA researchers discovered long-range parvalbumin-expression neurons from the cortex to the striatum in mouse brains, challenging the exclusive local organization of cortical circuit neurons. This finding could lead to new treatments for epilepsy, PTSD, schizophrenia, and other mental conditions involving GABAergic neurons.
Scientists have identified a group of chemicals present in ash leaves that could be used to look for susceptibility or resistance to ash dieback. The same compounds are also used by trees to deter herbivorous insects, raising concerns about unintended consequences.
Researchers at Michigan State University have identified a potential genetic target for treating an especially painful and invasive form of endometriosis. They discovered that targeting super-enhancers, altered by a mutation in the ARID1A gene, could lead to effective treatment using epigenetic therapy.
The new WEHI-TV animation explains how the 'tumour suppressor' protein p53 prevents cancer-causing changes in cells. More than half of human cancers involve faulty p53, and researchers are still working to develop better therapies for these cancers.
A new study found that doctors and nurses with proactive personalities were better able to redesign their jobs, capitalize on their strengths, and perform at higher levels during the COVID-19 pandemic. Proactive individuals also experienced greater well-being and resilience.
Researchers found no ice and a surprisingly active ecosystem in the Bering and Chukchi seas, adding data to a key climate change record. The delayed cruise due to COVID-19 revealed unseasonably warm ocean temperatures delaying sea ice formation by several weeks.
Researchers are harnessing the genetic potential of old crop varieties, known as landraces, to develop improved climate-adapted hybrid varieties. By analyzing gene variations, they have identified traits such as early plant development, wind resistance, and growth form that can be beneficial in breeding climate-resilient crops.
Researchers at Nottingham University Business School investigate how COVID-19 affects small and medium-sized businesses, exploring their risk exposure and developing new methods to support them. The study aims to provide tools for policymakers and the banking sector to improve SME resilience and credit risk management.
Researchers engineered β-Ni(OH)2 catalysts with different alkoxyl ligands, achieving high-efficiency oxygen evolution reactions. The ethoxyl-substituted β-Ni(OH)2 shows great potential as an efficient OER catalyst.
Researchers have developed a safer, more targeted way to deliver CRISPR gene therapy using light-activated liposomes. The new method uses spherical nanostructures of fat molecules to carry CRISPR molecules to specific sites in the body.
A University of Missouri researcher has developed procedures to define the preclinical stages of Alzheimer's disease, which can help drug developers identify potential beneficiaries of a future treatment. The study found that 42% of individuals with Alzheimer's-related brain pathology showed no signs of cognitive decline.
Researchers developed an implantable smart wrap that detects when the bladder needs to be emptied and sends a signal to expand or contract. The device addresses the under-active bladder condition, where patients have difficulty urinating regularly.
Researchers suggest that vitamin C therapy for COVID-19 may be effective in certain populations, but its success could be hindered by low levels of the natural transporter needed to get the vitamin inside cells. Factors such as age, race, and genetic variations of the transporter also impact effectiveness.
Researchers from Heidelberg University have identified the mechanism by which molecular chaperones dissolve amyloid fibrils formed in the brain, a key factor in Parkinson's disease. The study reveals that the chaperone complexes on the surface of the fibrils create strong enough pulling forces to disrupt the aggregates.
Researchers developed mathematical models to study microswimmers in clean and surfactant-covered viscous drops, revealing significant alterations in behavior due to the presence of surfactant. These models may aid in designing artificial microswimmers for targeted drug delivery, micro-surgery, and other applications.
The study provides a comprehensive genomic resource for the world's birds, enabling researchers to explore evolutionary relationships and traits. More than 92% of the world's avian families are represented in the dataset, which will aid in the conservation of threatened species.
A University of Gothenburg study shows that a molecule from gut bacteria, imidazole propionate, reduces the efficacy of metformin in lowering blood glucose. The study found high levels of imidazole propionate associated with impaired metformin action in type 2 diabetes patients.
Research suggests that cascaded organic Rankine cycle systems can outperform single-stage systems in certain applications, but the trade-off between performance and cost is significant. The study's findings provide valuable insights into delivering environmentally-friendly power from waste heat.
A study of nearly 2,000 Marine recruits found asymptomatic transmission of SARS-CoV-2 despite implementing best-practice public health measures. Regular testing identified carriers who could transmit the virus to others, even in settings with high compliance rates.
A study suggests that rapid finger-prick antibody tests for SARS-CoV-2 may deliver inaccurate results, with around 1 in 5 positive tests indicating a false positive. The test's accuracy varies depending on the individual's previous infection status, and laboratory confirmation is recommended for reliable results.
A new study reveals significant health and life impacts on patients treated in Michigan hospitals for COVID-19. Nearly 7% of patients died within two months, while 15% were rehospitalized, with many struggling with basic activities, jobs, mental health, and finances.
A new study from Incheon National University develops an eco-friendly buffer for solar panels, increasing efficiency and sustainability. The ZTO buffer uses naturally abundant materials, reducing toxicity and costs.
A KAUST modeling study shows RISs can dramatically enhance wireless communication in areas with blind spots. Six RISs per kilometer can significantly improve coverage at a density of 300 blockages per square kilometer.
Researchers discovered that different types of injury activate distinct spinal circuits, explaining why pain medications don't alleviate mechanical allodynia in all patients. The study may lead to new treatment strategies for pain management by targeting specific neural pathways in the spinal cord.
Researchers propose that declining hip fracture rates may be linked to generational differences in lifetime lead exposure, with bone mineral density and risk of fractures decreasing as lead levels decrease. The authors suggest that assessing lead levels in bones removed during hip replacements could help validate this hypothesis.
Research finds no direct link between early language environment and literacy skills at age 11, but suggests identifying 'learning pathways' during primary school can help teachers devise personalized strategies to support children who fell behind. The study used data from over 7,000 children to map out the interdependencies between ea...
Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham have identified a novel population of neurons, called saccade-vergence burst neurons (SVBNs), that control disjunctive saccades in 3D space. These findings could lead to new treatments for strabismus, a condition where eyes don't properly align.
Tabloids' focus on misinformation drives broadsheet attention to similar issues, highlighting media market herd behavior. This cross-national study examines the spread of misinformation in political and business journalism across different countries.
A study by Kevin Hoff and colleagues found that interest in an occupation does not strongly predict job satisfaction, but rather other factors like organization, supervisor, colleagues, and pay
A recent study published in Nature Food found that countries have a significant impact on nitrogen pollution, often multiple times greater than their effect on crop yields. Countries can curb fertiliser use without compromising yield by adjusting institutions, economic development, population size, and farm production processes.
Researchers at Nemours Children's Health System have identified a new source of abnormal lymphatic flow between the liver and lungs in patients with plastic bronchitis. This discovery opens up treatment options for certain cases, allowing for more effective management of symptoms.
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that COVID-19 led to a significant decrease in life expectancy in Spain, with an annual decline of 0.9 years. The pandemic resulted in increased mortality rates across the country, particularly in regions such as Madrid.
A recent study found that cassava can maintain its nutritional quality and photosynthetic efficiency even under elevated carbon dioxide levels. The crop showed significant yield increases of 22-39% in various varieties, making it a promising option for smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa.
A new study shows that warmer oceans cause hurricanes to weaken more slowly after making landfall, leading to more destruction inland. Researchers found that stored moisture is the key factor behind this phenomenon, allowing hurricanes to sustain themselves for longer.
Research finds that working in prestigious posts triggers resource-related and identity-related tensions for professionals managing their brand. Key practices to mitigate these tensions include transporting teams, out-conforming to commercial logics, selectively neglecting local normative expectations, and materializing the professiona...
Researchers found that self-reports of smell and taste changes were better correlated with COVID-19 hospital admissions than current governmental indicators. Smell/taste changes peaked four days after lockdown measures, while hospital indicator peaked 11 days later.
A Texas A&M University researcher found that age gates on alcohol websites are mostly ineffective in preventing underage users from accessing the site. The study found that most sites had no process for verifying the accuracy of user-provided birth dates, allowing users to bypass the age gate through repeated attempts.
Premium chocolate consumers prioritize gold foil, ornate labels, and intriguing backstories. Craft chocolate is perceived as exclusive and special, with a focus on packaging, sustainability labels, and storytelling. Consumers value high-quality ingredients and unique experiences.
Researchers develop a strain sensor that can detect small changes in muscle movement through clothing, demonstrating its high sensitivity. The sensor's resilience allows it to withstand repeated exposure to harsh conditions like being stabbed with a scalpel or run over by a car.
A study published in Cancer Discovery found that patients with advanced-stage lung cancer had greater enrichment of oral commensals in the lung than those with early-stage disease, leading to decreased survival. The presence of specific bacteria was associated with tumor progression and activation of inflammatory pathways.
Researchers developed a low-cost, flexible optoelectronic cell that can detect light intensity and perceive color. The device uses bandgap-gradient perovskites to sense spectral content with high resolution.
Researchers discover compounds that activate GABA receptors can reduce nicotine intake in stressed rats, potentially alleviating relapse. The findings suggest novel PAMs could help prevent stress-induced smoking relapse with fewer side effects.
Researchers at Michigan State University are developing softer materials for robots to navigate safely and build trust with humans. The team plans to test their 'Soft Mult-Arm Robot' prototype in apple orchards and operating rooms.
A new study shows that getting only half a night's sleep hijacks the brain's activity during learning and memory consolidation, leading to increased vulnerability to conditions like anxiety and posttraumatic stress disorder. The research found that even partial sleep deprivation can be worse than no sleep at all.
A recent study published in Gastroenterology identified rare and common genetic variants that significantly increase the risk of developing life-threatening blood clots in IBD patients. The research suggests that genomic medicine could help lower this threat, enabling physicians to provide more precise care.
A 60-year-old cohort study found that prioritizing interests and curiosity during adolescence enhances wellbeing in later life. The research, conducted over 60 years, suggests creating an environment fostering intrinsic motivations can promote old-age wellbeing.
A new study by Jung Ki Kim found that young people resumed risky behaviors earlier than the elderly, despite older individuals initially taking more precautions. Women and racial minorities were more likely to limit risk, while left-leaning political views also contributed to this behavior.
A new study found that prenatal exposure to maternal thyroid hormones can result in longer telomeres in chicks, making them appear younger at birth. This could have significant implications for understanding the effects of telomere length on aging and mortality risk.
Scientists found that repeated strong atmospheric rivers played a crucial role in forming massive holes in sea ice. These holes can influence regional and global ocean circulation, affecting phytoplankton blooms and contributing to global sea-level rise.
Researchers have developed a new approach to prevent toxicity seen in sensory neurons of dorsal root ganglia after gene therapy to treat neurological disorders. The approach involves modifying a transgene with a microRNA target, which reduces transgene expression and eliminates toxicity.
A UT Southwestern study found that retired football players with a history of concussions and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) scored similarly to non-athletes on verbal memory and learning tests. However, they showed lower scores on naming tests, which may be related to age-related decline rather than concussion effects.
Scientists from UNIGE and HUG identified the essential role of circadian clocks in beta cell regeneration. The study found that regeneration is significantly greater at night, when mice are active, and that the BMAL1 gene plays a crucial role in this process.
A high-sugar diet in fruit flies reprograms sweet taste receptors, reducing sensitivity to sweetness and promoting unhealthy eating habits. The study suggests that this epigenetic change may contribute to obesity and chronic diseases.
A new protein marker, neurofilament light protein (NFL), has been found to predict stroke severity and long-term outcomes. The levels of NFL in blood correlate with more severe brain damage and poorer survival rates after stroke.
The Zoonomia Project has released a vast dataset of over 80% of all mammalian families, spanning 110 million years of evolution. This dataset captures mammalian diversity and includes genomes from endangered species.
A team of researchers has discovered a new way to produce hydrogen using microwaves, with great potential for the automotive sector, chemical industry, and process industry. The technology enables the transformation of renewable electricity into hydrogen or chemical products without cables or contact with electrodes.
Postmenopausal women who participate in regular floorball training experience significant improvements in blood pressure and vascular function, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. This study demonstrates that team sport exercise can counteract the negative effects of estrogen loss on health.
Researchers have developed a special type of cotton fabric that releases reactive oxygen species when exposed to daylight, killing microbes attached to its surface while being washable and reusable. The fabric showed promise in reducing the spread of diseases like COVID-19 by killing 99.9999% of bacteria and viruses within 60 minutes.
Researchers discovered that 'bad metals' transform into quasiparticles, allowing them to pair up and superconduct current without resistance. This explains their unusual behavior in low-temperature superconductors.
A new study will investigate the safety of proton therapy for children with brain cancer compared to conventional x-ray radiation. The researchers aim to assess the risk of developmental disorders in children as a result of using proton beams to treat paediatric brain tumours.
Researchers demonstrate graphene heterogeneous fiber micro resonator, generating dissipative soliton mode-locked laser combs with dynamic tunability. The graphene device provides opto-electric stabilization, reducing phase noise to instrument-limited floor, -130 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset.
Researchers have identified isolated lymphoid structures (ILSs) as novel prognostic markers for metastatic colorectal cancer. ILSs, which are integral to the immune system, orchestrate multifaceted immune responses and can predict improved clinical outcomes in patients.
Researchers observed wrinkle-faced bats displaying unique courtship behavior, including ultrasonic echolocation calls and trill song sequences. The species' face masks were found to be crucial in attracting females, with males using them to seduce potential mates.
Scientists propose genetically engineered organisms to remove CO2 from the atmosphere irreversibly. Bioengineered plants can be designed to increase crop productivity, fix nitrogen, and process energy more efficiently.
The LHCb collaboration observes two structures in proton-proton collisions, suggesting the existence of four-charm tetraquark states. The narrower structure is described as a hadron state of mass about 6900 MeV/c2, denoted as X(6900). Understanding the internal structure of hadrons remains a challenge, with QCD models unable to explain...
Researchers have developed two novel targeted therapies to slow down or stop fibrosis progression in people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). These treatments aim to deliver potent drugs specifically to diseased cells, minimizing harm to healthy ones. The therapies will soon enter human clinical trials.
Researchers describe the rapid deployment of a virtual hospital program during the COVID-19 pandemic, finding potential benefits in providing additional inpatient capacity. Meanwhile, a study on 60-day postdischarge outcomes among patients hospitalized with COVID-19 reveals ongoing morbidity and financial loss for most survivors.
Researchers found that C-section birth doubles asthma and allergy risk, but recovery of gut microbiota by age 1 may prevent this. The study suggests restoring the perturbed microbiome could prevent asthma development in high-risk children.
A researcher at Indiana University School of Medicine has received a $2.9 million grant to develop a drug that could make radiation therapy more effective in treating lung cancer and other solid tumors.
A new Hastings Center project aims to develop an ethics framework for scientists to anticipate and prevent biases in health data models. The framework will consider data use, bias toward white populations, and equitable interventions to address health disparities.
A new survey of 13,000 Welsh participants found that around half showed clinically significant psychological distress, with severe effects affecting 20%. The study highlights the need for public sector services to prepare for increased mental health problems in vulnerable groups.
A new genome alignment tool called Progressive Cactus has enabled major advances in understanding the evolution of birds and mammals. By aligning over 600 vertebrate genomes, researchers have gained a detailed view of how species are related to each other at the genetic level.
Researchers refine theories on protein interactions with solutions, discovering new factors influencing folding, including thermal expansion and temperature. Atom-scale models reveal complex interactions between solvents and peptides, potentially changing our understanding of hydrophobic and hydrophilic effects.
A team of healthcare providers and advocates led by Pediatric Surgeon Lorraine Kelley-Quon established the first-ever guidelines for safe opioid prescribing in children. The guidelines acknowledge the risks of opioid misuse and addiction in teens and adolescents, while promoting education and safe storage/disposal practices.
A new study from Penn Medicine researchers found that early and repeated exposures to diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays and CT scans, may increase the risk of testicular cancer. The study suggests that reduced medically unnecessary testicular exposure could be considered to reduce radiation dose and optimize shielding practices.
Six entries featuring notable explanatory and investigative reporting on the global COVID-19 pandemic won the 2020 AAAS Kavli Science Journalism Awards. Winners included Ed Yong, Kaiser Health News and The Associated Press for an investigation into state and local health programs.
A high-sugar diet reprograms taste cells in fruit flies, leaving a lasting molecular memory that affects future eating behavior. The researchers found that the molecular memory is persistent even after switching to healthy diets, leading to changes in gene expression that impact sweet taste perception.
Researchers demonstrate a solvent-assisted ligand exchange-hydrogen reduction strategy for selective encapsulation of ultrafine metal nanoparticles within the shallow layers of MOF. This approach reduces mass transfer resistance and enhances metal dispersion, promoting highly efficient hydrogenation reactions.
A new study reveals that routine pre-operative COVID-19 testing can significantly reduce the risk of respiratory complications and save lives. Researchers found that using nasal swab tests to confirm asymptomatic patients were not infected with SARS-CoV-2 led to a lower rate of post-operative complications.
A team of international chemists identified valuable fatty acids in seeds of two popular medicinal plants. The study found that these plant oils contain unsaturated conjugated fatty acids with anti-tumor properties and help combat obesity and inflammation.
Racially diverse congregations have more than tripled in the United States over the past 20 years, with approximately a quarter of evangelical and Catholic churches now multiracial. However, despite these increases, difficulties persist in achieving racial desegregation within American religion.
Experts argue that the US gray wolf population has not fully recovered and that delisting is premature. The authors propose a framework for conservation of adaptive potential to enhance the effectiveness of species recovery.
Researchers at Yale University have discovered a protein called Peptidoglycan Recognition Protein 1 (PGLYRP1) that helps protect hosts from infection with the Lyme spirochete. The study, published in PLOS Pathogens, found that mice lacking this protein had higher levels of the bacteria and showed signs of immune system dysfunction.
A recent study found that nearly 60% of young adults experienced direct or household employment loss during the pandemic, with many reporting symptoms of anxiety and depression. The researchers argue that addressing economic hardships can help mitigate mental health issues among this demographic.
Researchers estimate 4.3% of Kenyans had antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 by June 2020, revealing more extensive exposure than reported case-based surveillance indicates. The findings support the idea that disease may be attenuated in Africa due to Kenya's demographic characteristics.
Cornell researchers have successfully trapped electrons in a two-dimensional semiconducting structure, forming the long-hypothesized Wigner crystal. The team achieved this by stacking two-dimensional semiconductors and using an optical sensing technique to observe the resulting electron crystals.
Researcher from Max Planck Institute applied large hydrostatic pressures to CeFeAsO, a non-superconducting compound. The study reveals a narrow superconducting phase emerging in the boundary region between spin-density-wave magnetism and Kondo-effect.
Researchers at University of Konstanz and Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München develop a prototypical attosecond electron microscope (A-TEM) that enables visualization of light-matter interactions at attosecond speeds. This breakthrough can facilitate the exploration of atomic origins of light-matter interactions in complex materials...
A comprehensive review of plant natural products reveals 459 compounds with antibacterial activity, providing promising candidates for new antibiotic discovery. The review, led by Cassandra Quave, aims to facilitate the search for effective drugs against antibiotic-resistant pathogens.
The study reveals that mammal defaunation has wiped out over 40% of ecosystem services provided by mammals, such as ecotourism and disease control. Large-bodied mammals are disappearing fastest, while small-bodied species often perform the same services, with overlapping species among rodents, bats, and apex predators.
Researchers found that exercising your brain with 'neurobics' before surgery can help prevent post-surgery delirium. Patients who played brain games for at least five hours a day saw a significant reduction in delirium rates, with those playing up to 10 hours experiencing a 61% decrease.
A recent study published in The BMJ found that women who stop using some forms of contraception, such as injectable methods, may experience a temporary delay in their return to fertility. After eight months, most women are able to conceive normally again.
Researchers at Graz University of Technology discovered a method to exploit Intel processors using power side-channel attacks, even without physical access. The technique uses the RAPL interface and misuses Intel's SGX functionality to extract sensitive data.
Researchers at IBS Center for Soft and Living Matter use laser to study cage formation in colloidal glasses, finding non-monotonic length scale peaking at onset temperature. The findings reveal complex dynamics underlying glass transition, with implications for understanding other glassy systems.
A UK-based company has secured funding to develop biodegradable alternatives to plastic microbeads used in various industries. The project will explore the use of cellulose microbeads as a carrier for enzymes in industrial chemical production, aiming to reduce ocean pollution.
The University of Illinois Chicago will launch a post-secondary certificate program to prepare individuals with intellectual disabilities for competitive employment. The two-year Co-Op program, set to begin in fall 2021, will provide full student status, career pathways, and integration with other UIC students.
The article reviews AI-assisted chest imaging analysis methods for COVID-19 diagnosis, demonstrating the potential of deep learning-based techniques. Establishing a database for public research and extracting lesions accurately are crucial to improve performance.
Heidelberg researchers discovered that RNA synthesis and protein translation play crucial roles in shaping organ functions. The study analyzed over 100 billion gene expression fragments, revealing the importance of regulatory mechanisms at both layers of gene expression.
A research team at Pohang University of Science & Technology developed a technique for predicting the phase and properties of high-entropy alloys using AI. The technique, which uses deep learning, improves the accuracy of phase prediction and provides guidance on key design parameters.
Researchers discovered that inserting potassium atoms into amorphous silica creates a negative charge by forming a SiO5 structure, which accumulates electrons. This design guidance improves the reliability and longevity of vibrational energy harvesters.
Researchers developed novel cascade optical field modulation strategy to boost UCL by more than four orders of magnitude. The new material exhibits extremely high responsivity and detectivity, achieving selective detection in three narrow spectral bands.