Researchers have discovered that malaria parasites secrete the protein EXP2 to create pores in host cell membranes, facilitating entry. Blocking or decreasing liver infection can prevent malaria. The findings open a new pathway for prophylactic interventions and may lead to the development of treatments.
A brief five-week pilot intervention improved preschoolers' behavioral regulation and liking of fruits and vegetables. The study found significant gains in these skills among children who received the intervention, compared to those who did not.
Scientists have demonstrated a novel material that exhibits superconductivity in the form of a Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC), bridging a gap between two previously thought incompatible methods. This breakthrough could lead to new understanding and applications of superconduction, including potentially room-temperature devices.
A genetically edited form of a herpes simplex virus has outperformed a leading vaccine candidate in a new study, significantly increasing antibody production and reducing viral replication. The modified live virus demonstrated cross-protection against both HSV-1 and HSV-2, suggesting an HSV-2-specific edition could be even more effective.
A recent study suggests that formal 'green prescriptions' to spend time in nature for people with mental health conditions may actually undermine some of the benefits. Research found that visits were associated with emotional and wellbeing benefits when done by choice, but not when pressured by others.
Researchers from the University of Edinburgh have identified a previously unknown species of teleosauroid and seven close relatives, offering insights into their adaptability and behavior. The study creates an updated family tree of the group, revealing two new large groups with distinct anatomical features.
Researchers discovered that overexpressing protein kinase A (PKA) improves muscle resistance to fatigue in mice by suppressing FoxO proteins and increasing oxidative potential. This study offers a potential solution for treating atrophy and promoting muscle growth without severe side effects.
Feather color changes in birds are influenced by molt, which is necessary for flight and attracts mates. Birds that migrate farther distances replace more feathers during their journeys.
Researchers from KIST and PNU developed an encryption device that detects circularly polarized light to strengthen IoT security. The device uses a phototransistor with cholesteric liquid crystal and π-conjugated polymer, exhibiting high sensitivity in detecting circular polarization.
A study presented at ACR Convergence found that adults with systemic lupus erythematosus who receive TMP-SMX are at high risk for adverse reactions. Lupus patients with anti-Smith antibodies were significantly associated with a higher risk of an adverse drug reaction.
Researchers demonstrate that trained neutrophil granulocytes can inhibit tumour growth and increase the chances for treatment in certain patients. The training process involves administering beta-glucan, which alters gene activity in precursor cells, leading to long-term effects.
Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) is widely used for predicting protein secondary structure and quantifying proteins. The technique can detect structural modifications due to interactions with other materials, making it useful for various sample types.
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have developed a stretchy and fully-recyclable circuit board that can heal itself like real skin. The device can perform various sensory tasks, including measuring body temperature and tracking daily step counts.
A team led by Eric Gaidos discovered the mechanism behind glacial lake floods, which are some of the largest on Earth. The researchers found that hydraulic connections between glaciers and lakes can lead to sudden and unpredictable floods.
Researchers discovered a nearly complete skeleton of a juvenile Plateosaurus, nicknamed 'Fabian', which showed a largely fully developed morphology at an early age. The young dinosaur was estimated to be around 7.5 feet long and weigh 40-60 kilograms.
Researchers explore how standardized visualization influences our understanding of the world, linking material culture to brain development and social power dynamics. The study spans prehistoric societies to contemporary digital technologies, examining the role of reification in shaping our vision.
A new study by the University of Miami finds that warmer Atlantic Ocean temperatures are linked to increased rainfall in Florida during late summer. The research highlights human influences on climate change as a key factor in this link, and suggests an increase in late summer rainfall is expected in the future.
A new study suggests that eliminating out-of-pocket costs for contraception is linked to more consistent contraceptive use and lower birth rates across all income groups. The most significant decline was observed among people from the lowest income group, experiencing a 22% drop in births.
A new study published in the Journal of Transport & Health found that a jughandle design can virtually eliminate single bicycle crashes at railway crossings. The design realigns the approach angle to about 60 degrees, reducing the risk of tire being caught in the gap between the rail and pavement.
A new telescope, Outrigger, will be built at the Green Bank Observatory to pinpoint the locations of Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs) in far-off galaxies. The telescope will work with the existing CHIME telescope to triangulate FRB locations and provide insights into their nature.
Researchers found that a commonly prescribed anti-depressant can halt the growth of childhood sarcoma by targeting a specific receptor, offering hope for novel treatment strategies. The study provides a new paradigm for controlling tumour-driving receptors and could lead to the development of specific therapeutics.
Research found that species-rich plant communities reduce herbivore impacts, supporting natural predators and providing less nutritious food for herbivores. This leads to increased plant biomass per square meter and lower damage from arthropod herbivores.
A new study found that California's CalEnviroScreen program may miss eligible communities for climate adaptation funding. The researchers identified 348 additional communities that would be eligible under two alternative indices.
Researchers use advanced simulation to model large mass ratio black hole merger, predicting characteristics of ultimate merged black hole and its speed. The simulation's success could help plan future gravitational wave detectors and answer mysteries about black holes.
Researchers identified key enzyme PPM1F that regulates integrins' detachment from ECM, allowing cells to move in protein meshwork. The discovery sheds light on how cells balance attachment to versus detachment from extracellular matrix.
A new BU study finds that bisexual youth are twice as likely to start smoking compared to their straight peers. Coming out as lesbian or gay did not increase the risk of smoking. The research highlights the need for targeted public health interventions to address the unique challenges faced by bisexual young people.
Researchers from Kyushu University developed a technique that improves the resolution of fluorescence images of living cells using plasmonic metasurfaces. The metasurface, composed of self-assembled gold nanoparticles, enhances the focus of light-emitting molecules, resulting in high-resolution imaging capabilities.
A new study found that patients with rheumatoid arthritis taking biologic DMARDs have a 17% lower risk of developing dementia compared to those on conventional synthetic DMARDs. The treatment reduces inflammation, which may explain the decreased risk.
The employment-to-population ratio for working-age people with disabilities increased to 29.2% in October, while labor force participation rates improved slightly compared to last year. The ongoing pandemic and federal aid uncertainty remain major concerns.
Scientists have successfully produced and studied a quantum spin liquid (QSL) in a new material called EDT-BCO. The QSL emerges due to the unique structure of the material, which includes triangularly organized dimers and sublattice of carboxylate anions.
The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) honored 37 distinguished members with the 2020 Master of the ACR designation for their contributions to rheumatology research and patient care. The ACR also recognized leading researchers and clinicians with its Awards of Distinction, including the Presidential Gold Medal and the Paulding Phel...
Researchers from NTU and SUTD review recent efforts on 3D printing of spacers and membranes, highlighting its potential to reduce dead zones and mitigate membrane fouling. They also introduce 'hybrid additive manufacturing' as a process combining 3D printing with other methods for fabricating membranes.
Researchers developed a new method to optimize materials exhibiting metal-insulator transitions (MIT) using Bayesian optimization and latent-variable Gaussian processes. The approach identified 12 previously unidentified MIT materials with optimal functionality and synthesizability.
Research by Universidad Complutense de Madrid found that ayahuasca's DMT promotes neurogenesis, forming new neurons and other cells like astrocytes and oligodendrocytes. This capacity suggests great therapeutic potential for various neurological diseases.
Dr. Sonia Y. Angell receives the American Heart Association's 2020 Chairman's Award for her dynamic leadership in public health and promotion of cardiovascular health. Her notable achievements include enacting regulations to ban trans fatty acids, launching coalitions to reduce sodium and sugar in food supply.
Air pollution and noise exposure are linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Researchers recommend reducing air pollution limits to prevent thousands of excess deaths. They also suggest strategies for mitigating road traffic and aircraft noise, such as quieter tires and better flight routing.
Researchers are racing to collect and conserve wild banana species critical to helping bananas adapt to climate change, pests, and diseases. In a recent expedition, scientists gathered over 31 bunches of eight different species, highlighting the importance of conserving genetic diversity.
Astronomers have developed a new method to detect dark matter haloes surrounding galaxies, allowing for more precise measurements of the invisible mass. By analyzing the gravitational lensing effect on galaxy rotation, researchers can infer the amount of dark matter required to explain observed distortions.
Researchers studied Germanium telluride crystals at the nanoscale to understand its ferroelectric properties and their potential applications in non-volatile spintronic devices. The study found two distinct types of boundaries surrounding ferroelectric nanodomains with sizes between 10 to 100 nanometres.
Researchers identified diverse groups of cortical stem and progenitor cells with distinct gene expression profiles, contributing to neural complexity in the adult cerebral cortex. The study's findings support the protomap theory, which suggests that early cell diversity paves the way for later neuronal diversity.
Researchers designed nanocrystal structures using platinum compounds to effectively encapsulate and transport hydrophobic drugs. The study achieved high encapsulation efficiency of up to 79% and shows potential for biomedicine applications.
A new study analyzing cognitive decline in diverse Latinx populations found that the APOE-ε4 gene variant is associated with increased risk of cognitive decline. Interestingly, a higher proportion of genetic Amerindian ancestry was found to protect against this risk.
A new study found that plastic bottles colonize with diverse bacterial communities, while elevated CO2 levels negatively impact certain species. Researchers warn of the increasing threat posed by plastics and ocean acidification to marine biodiversity.
Dr. Ann Marie Schmidt has made critical contributions to understanding the connections between heart disease and diabetes through her discovery of the RAGE receptor. Her work aims to develop targeted treatments for obesity and its complications, with the potential to impact hundreds of millions of lives worldwide.
Researchers have identified two compounds that can inhibit both the main protease (Mpro) of SARS-CoV-2 and cathepsin L, a human protein involved in viral entry. The study found that these compounds may improve treatment by simultaneously targeting multiple steps of the virus's life cycle.
Scientists at Linköping University develop a lead-free magnetic double perovskite with interesting optoelectronic properties, opening the possibility of coupling spintronics with optoelectronics. The new material exhibits a magnetic response at temperatures below 30 K.
A team of researchers has discovered how an enzyme called UCH37 helps cells get rid of damaged proteins. By removing branchpoints from ubiquitin chains, UCH37 allows proteins to be degraded more efficiently, which could lead to new cancer treatments.
Research highlights the need for tuberculosis (TB) screening and ongoing clinical care for people on methotrexate living in areas with high TB prevalence. Methotrexate users taking corticosteroids or immunosuppressants are at increased risk of TB infection.
Dr. Michelle A. Albert is recognized for her groundbreaking research on cardiovascular population research, addressing social determinants of health and health disparities in vulnerable populations. Her work aims to improve cardiovascular health and reduce health inequities globally.
A new study reveals that patients with Parkinson's disease may have an undetected rare neurodegenerative disorder called NIID. Symptoms of NIID include dementia and poor balance. Researchers found NIID-causing mutations in those diagnosed with PD, suggesting a link between the two conditions.
A recent study found that mammals, birds, and amphibians have lost an average of 18% of their natural habitat range due to land use changes and climate change. The loss could increase to 23% by 2100 in a worst-case scenario.
Scientists at Scripps Research have developed a new strategy to treat RNA-repeat expansion disorders, which affect millions of people worldwide. The compound has shown promise in early tests against myotonic dystrophy 1 and Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy by neutralizing toxic RNAs and preventing their capture of essential proteins.
The new guideline recommends increased use of biologic drugs, reduced steroid treatment, and regular immunizations for infectious diseases. Disease-modifying treatments are now more rapidly escalated in JIA patients, reducing the need for oral or intravenous steroids.
A landmark study published in the Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology describes a fossil family that illuminates the origin of perissodactyls, including horses, rhinos, and tapirs. The research provides insights into the evolutionary history of these mammals, suggesting they evolved in isolation in or near present-day India.
A Boston University study reveals that physical distancing policies had little effect on lower-income individuals, who were more aware and motivated to protect themselves but lacked the means to stay home. The research used anonymized mobility data from smartphones in over 210,000 neighborhoods across the US.
Researchers at Kumamoto University have clarified the mechanism behind homologous chromosome pairing, a process necessary for sperm and egg formation. The study shows that cohesin acts as a marker to call HORMAD1 to the chromosome prior to homologous chromosome pairing, highlighting its importance in reproductive medicine.
Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute discovered that some children have pre-existing antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, which may offer protection. The study found that these antibodies are more common in children than adults and target a specific part of the virus, suggesting potential for vaccine development.
A global survey of 427 children with rheumatic diseases found only 5% developed COVID-19, with none requiring hospitalization or severe complications. The study suggests that children with rheumatic disease should continue their immunosuppressive medications during the pandemic.
Researchers developed phyloFlash to analyze SSU rRNA from raw metagenome data, overcoming limitations of traditional methods. The user-friendly software identifies organisms in simple communities with high reliability.
The new RA guideline recommends starting patients on methotrexate and continuing with treatment, rather than rapidly switching to other drugs. The guideline also aims to minimize the use of glucocorticoids due to their serious side effects.
A new study suggests that implementing social distancing measures in the US two weeks sooner could have prevented over a million cases and saved over 59,000 lives. The study's results highlight the importance of quick and aggressive non-pharmaceutical interventions to counter COVID-19 transmission.
Researchers used ancient DNA samples to reconstruct the population history of prehistoric dogs, finding they diverged into at least five distinct lineages by 11,000 years ago. The study also suggests human-dog migration patterns didn't always align, with some populations showing little genetic influence from wolves.
A study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that ultrasound-guided percutaneous needle biopsy is highly accurate for diagnosing small pleural lesions with nodular morphology or thickness over 4.5 mm. The procedure yielded a diagnostic accuracy rate of 85.4% and a 96.4% yield rate for nodular CT lesions.
Dr. Nanette K. Wenger is being recognized for her long-term record of successful teaching and mentoring of the next generation of faculty researchers, educators, and healthcare professionals. Her work has significantly improved patient outcomes, particularly in women's heart health.
Research found preexisting antibody-driven immunity against SARS-CoV-2 in a small proportion of uninfected adults and children, suggesting cross-reactive protection. These antibodies targeted the viral spike protein complex and showed neutralizing activity in cell culture experiments.
A new study shows that methotrexate significantly improves physical function and reduces inflammation in adults with primary knee osteoarthritis. Patients who received methotrexate treatment had improvements in WOMAC scores and reduced inflammatory markers, while those taking glucosamine showed no significant benefits.
A Boston University School of Medicine study reveals a widening gap between high deductible health plan (HDHP) enrollment and the availability of health savings accounts (HSAs), exacerbating health inequities among Black, Hispanic, and lower-income populations.
Researchers at UCL have used laser beams to 'switch on' neurons in mice, showing how memories drive the brain's inner GPS system. The study uses an 'all-optical' approach to read and write activity in specific neurons, reactivating memories of a location where rewards were obtained.
Researchers derived an analytical model of optical activity in black phosphorous under an external magnetic field, discovering tunable phenomena. The findings show optical activity conforming to that previously observed in chiral metamaterials and have applications in polarization optics, stereochemistry, and molecular biology.
The University of Montana researchers contributed to a global data archive for studies of animal migration in the Arctic and sub-Arctic. The archive contains over 200 projects and movement data of more than 8,000 marine and terrestrial animals from 1991 to the present.
Researchers found that eliminating cost sharing for contraception resulted in higher birth rates among low-income and middle-income women, but not among high-income women. The study suggests that increased access to affordable contraception may contribute to a decline in unintended pregnancies.
Researchers from NIES and JAMSTEC detected a 20% decrease in FFCO2 emissions in China during January-February 2020 due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The study used atmospheric observations at Hateruma Island, Japan, to quantify the changes in regional FFCO2 emissions.
A new study by Cornell University researchers found that government policies played a crucial role in Denmark's widespread adoption of wind energy. The study analyzed the impact of policies on small producers' decisions to shut down or upgrade aging equipment and found that well-designed policies were essential for the industry's growth.
A team of scientists and students from the University of Sheffield has published blueprints for a cheaper single-molecule microscope, making the technique more accessible to labs worldwide. The smfBox microscope is capable of single-molecule measurements and works as well as commercially available instruments.
Researchers have detected hot gas in cosmic web for the first time, revealing 40% of ordinary matter remains undetected. The discovery confirms earlier analyses and paves the way for more detailed studies on galaxy evolution.
A new study found that pregnant women with obesity can alter their children's DNA through diet and lifestyle modifications, reducing the risk of metabolic disease. The research suggests that a healthy diet and increased physical activity during pregnancy can have a positive impact on infant health.
The adoption of Front-of-Package (FOP) nutrition labeling in a product category results in significant improvements in nutritional quality. Manufacturers increase nutrient reduction by lowering calorie content and limiting key nutrients like sugar, sodium, and saturated fat.
Dr. Anne B. Newman will receive the American Heart Association's 2020 Clinical Research Prize for her work on aging and cardiovascular disease. She is being recognized for her extensive research career, including long-term cohort studies and clinical trials on aging and physical functioning.
Scientists have discovered a new way to design magnets with high operating temperatures, large coercivity, and low density. The novel lightweight magnets could complement or compete with traditional inorganic magnets in various applications.
Dr. JoAnn E. Manson is recognized for her pioneering efforts in understanding the role of menopausal estrogen therapy in cardiovascular disease. Her extensive research career has led to significant advancements in population health promotion and prevention of cardiovascular disease in women.
The study examined clinicians' experiences planning and providing care in settings with limited resources during the pandemic. Clinicians reported significant challenges and stress in managing patients, highlighting the need for support and resources to mitigate these effects.
A new study published in Obstetrics and Gynecology analyzed data from over 310,000 Japanese women to investigate age-related and seasonal variations in menstrual cycles and body temperatures. The researchers found that the average menstrual cycle length increased until age 23, decreased until age 45, and then increased again.
A Cornell University-led team is developing more sustainable organic farming practices that balance productivity, environmental impact, and growers' quality of life. The project uses cover crops like rye to suppress weeds and reduce soil degradation.
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München researchers have developed light-gated compounds that allow precise control of cytoskeleton dynamics in neurons. These compounds can optically pattern cell division and may elucidate how Taxol acts, providing a new approach to understanding cellular cargo trafficking and regulation of mitosis.
A new study reveals that Arctic rivers contribute significantly more heat to the Arctic Ocean than in 1980, leading to up to 120,000 square miles of sea ice melt. This warming effect is accelerated by global air temperature rise and positive feedback loops.
Researchers at Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research developed a protocol to overcome difficulties in engineering and expanding mouse T cells for CAR-T cell therapies. The new method showed improved tumor control, proliferation, and persistence of CAR-T cells, as well as enhanced reprogramming of the tumor microenvironment.
A new study found that people of color with rheumatic disease are more likely to experience poor health outcomes from COVID-19 infection, including hospitalization and necessary ventilation support. Black and Latinx patients had significantly higher odds of needing hospitalization and ventilation support compared to white patients.
Scientists have developed a way to produce nylon fibers that are piezoelectric, generating electricity from simple body movement. This breakthrough technology could lead to smart clothes that monitor health and charge devices without external power.