A study examined the seropositive prevalence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in Wuhan, China, finding a significant seropositive rate among residents. The results showed differences in antibody prevalence by sex and age group, highlighting the importance of vaccination efforts.
New research reveals that coastal permafrost is largely absent in shallow seafloor areas, contrary to previous beliefs. This finding suggests that carbon can be released from coastline sources more easily, potentially exacerbating climate change.
Researchers developed a new imaging method that maps HIV's sugary shield in unprecedented detail, shedding light on its structure and dynamic nature. The technique has the potential to improve vaccine design by targeting vulnerable sites on HIV and other glycan-shielded viruses.
Balachandran's data-driven approach predicts which alloys will perform well in extreme environments, narrowing the search for high-performance materials. His work combines artificial intelligence with quantum mechanics to make the search more productive and cost-effective.
A research team led by Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München found that marine sponges can accumulate microparticles, including plastics and textile fibers, in their tissues. The study suggests that sponges could serve as useful bioindicators for monitoring microscopic pollutants in the seas.
A recent study published in Environment International found that bioplastics contain high levels of toxic chemicals, similar to conventional plastics. The researchers tested 43 different plastic products and found that 80% contained more than 1000 different chemicals.
A new study found that Blacks and Hispanics experience higher rates of kidney failure compared to whites, driven by faster declines in kidney function after chronic kidney disease onset. This disparity can be addressed by slowing the progression of kidney disease in these populations.
Ihlefeld's research focuses on developing universal, pure, and smooth thin films for transistors in high-temperature environments. His innovation aims to enable the design of new microelectronics with ultra-thin insulating materials.
Researchers found that serotonin can stimulate the production of basal progenitor cells in the fetal human brain, potentially contributing to the evolutionary expansion of the neocortex. This new function of serotonin may help explain the development of neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders.
A new method called SPOTlight allows for the isolation of single live cells with unique profiles from heterogenous populations. The platform uses a digital micromirror device to give individual cells a long-lasting tag, enabling researchers to observe cellular dynamics and subcellular structures over time.
The CRISPR Journal announces its October 2020 issue, featuring expert reactions to the National Academies' Heritable Human Genome Editing report. The journal also presents a comprehensive survey of global laws and regulations on hereditary human genome editing, highlighting both countries that prohibit and permit such research.
Researchers at George Mason University are reviewing the Positive Train Control Safety Plan to ensure its alignment with federal regulations. The study aims to confirm the plan's effectiveness in preventing train accidents such as collisions and derailments.
Researchers discovered RING1B is critical for Ewing sarcoma development and hijacks transcriptional program to create cancerous cells. Epigenetic inhibitors may offer new treatment strategies.
A new study found that a faecal immunochemical test (FIT) is almost 100% accurate at ruling out bowel cancer in patients with suspicious symptoms. FIT has been shown to be as sensitive as colonoscopy, the current gold standard for detection of colorectal cancer.
A new AI-based tool can help clinicians predict which hospitalized patients are at high risk of developing acute kidney injury, allowing for earlier treatment and potentially better outcomes. The Dascena algorithm outperformed the standard method in predicting AKI 72 hours prior to onset.
A nanocatalyst made from zinc oxide and niobium can produce N-heterocycles with almost 100% efficiency, replacing expensive noble metal-based catalysts. The catalyst is derived from orange peel without additional chemical agents.
A 14,000-year paleoecological reconstruction found that seabird establishment led to changes in Falkland Islands ecosystems through guano deposition. This terrestrial-marine link is critical for grasslands conservation efforts, as nutrients from marine ecosystems enrich the islands' nutrient-poor soil.
Researchers propose new method to verify star and planet formation theory by simulating the Princeton Magnetorotational Instability (MRI) Experiment. The study finds that instabilities can be seen before the upper limit of experimental rotation rate is reached, shedding light on the growth of celestial bodies.
Recent clinical trials have shown promising results for finerenone, which slows diabetic kidney disease progression and reduces cardiovascular events when added to standard care. Empagliflozin also demonstrated benefits in patients with heart failure and chronic kidney disease. These findings suggest new treatment options for patients ...
A team of researchers has proposed a method to use time crystals to simulate massive networks with very little computing power. They used graph theory and statistical mechanics to fill the gap in understanding time crystals and their applications.
A new study by a USC-led research team reveals that emissions from Chinese coal-fired power plants are fertilizing the North Pacific Ocean with iron and other metals, which could impact marine life. The researchers found peak iron concentrations in surface seawater corresponding to big wind events over east Asia.
A new study found that similar molecular processes are activated in diabetic kidney disease and COVID-19 patients, making them more susceptible to infection. The research suggests that diabetes primes kidney cells, which can lead to a severe immune response and kidney damage when combined with COVID-19.
Scientists successfully created airway basal stem cells in vitro from induced pluripotent stem cells, which may lead to new treatments for airways and lungs damaged by various diseases. The study's findings could also enable the development of disease models and targeted drug approaches.
Feitian Zhang and Pei Dong received a $15,000 grant to purchase a remotely operated vehicle with GPS for monitoring microelectronic sensors in aquatic environments. The funding will support their research in aquatic environmental monitoring until August 2021.
Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. will publish Journal of Correctional Health Care, a national, peer-reviewed journal focusing on correctional health care. The journal provides education for healthcare providers serving the incarcerated population, covering topics such as clinical care, mental health, and substance abuse treatment.
The ESMO Asia Virtual Congress 2020 examined the efficacy of new therapies for prevalent cancer types in the Asia-Pacific region. The scientific program featured key research areas, including neo-adjuvant immuno-oncology and molecular stratification.
A University of Cincinnati biologist found that even small concentrations of estrogen in water can lead to a gender ratio imbalance and smaller fish populations. The study used least killifish, which have live young, and found that exposure to estrogen resulted in more females than males.
A new project aims to create household sprays and coatings that capture COVID-19 aerosol droplets, inactivating the virus. Researchers will use additives to provide long-lasting protection against the virus, with a focus on surface characteristics.
A survey of French university students who experienced COVID-19 quarantine found a significant increase in mental health disorders. The study identified factors associated with these disorders, highlighting the need for targeted support measures.
A research team discovered molecular processes in kidney cells that attract and feed COVID-19, making them a target for potential therapies. The study identified networks of molecules that result in higher levels of ACE2, a protein on the surface of kidney cells that aids in virus entry and activation.
A new analysis found that the critically endangered vaquita remains genetically healthy despite its low population numbers. The study suggests that the species' ability to survive at low numbers is not doomed to extinction and gives hope for conservation efforts.
Researchers have discovered that the iconic Clovis spear-point and other distinctive tools were created by North America's earliest inhabitants for only a brief 300-year period. This finding provides new insights into the origin and demise of the Clovis culture, which once occupied the continent at the end of the last Ice Age.
Astronomers have found compelling evidence that planets start to form while infant stars are still growing. The ALMA radio observatory has captured a high-resolution image of the proto-star IRS 63 with multiple gaps and rings of dust, indicating that seeds of planets are forming in these cosmic cradles.
Researchers at CNIC found that neutrophils acquire new characteristics when they arrive in a tissue and aid in maintaining organ health. This discovery suggests possible new treatments for diseases, including cancer, by leveraging the immune system's plasticity.
Researchers found that COVID-19 disproportionately affects people with non-communicable diseases (NCDs), increasing their vulnerability to the virus and exposure to NCD risk factors. The study also revealed that COVID-19 disrupted essential public health services, further exacerbating NCD management.
A study found that online peer mentoring for individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) improves patient activation, which is positively correlated with various aspects of quality of life. Improved patient activation correlates with improvements in physical symptoms and burdens of kidney disease but not mental aspects.
Researchers developed an optical neuron system using quantum cascade lasers, operating 10,000× faster than biological neurons. The system demonstrates behaviors like thresholding and spiking, with fine-tuning of modulation and frequency allowing control of time intervals between spikes.
Researchers Nathalie Picque and Theodor Hänsch developed dual-comb spectroscopy to detect spectral patterns even in extremely low light conditions. This technique enabled the recording of broad spectra with over 100,000 colors in near complete darkness.
A new study from Penn Medicine found that proton therapy reduces the risk of radiation-induced heart diseases in lung cancer patients. Mini-strokes and heart attacks were significantly less common among patients who underwent proton therapy compared to those treated with conventional photon-based radiation therapy.
ERA-EDTA has launched a series of e-seminars to apply recent trial findings to patient care. The e-seminars focus on topics like SGLT2 inhibitors and COVID-19, aiming to provide nephrology experts with insights into the benefits and risks of new treatments.
A recent study published in Risk Analysis suggests that Effective Fiber Mask Programs (EFMPs) can help communities balance economy and curb community spread. By using non-woven materials like cotton batting, the effectiveness of cloth masks can be improved by up to 90% against aerosol particles.
A recent paper proposes three screening questions to help policymakers choose the best model for their problem, reducing confusion and increasing trust. This approach aims to bring clarity to the decision-making process, especially during times of crisis like Covid-19.
The Gerontological Society of America has recognized 20 exceptional individuals through its prestigious awards program, honoring outstanding contributions to gerontology and aging research, education, and practice. The award recipients include researchers, educators, and practitioners who have made significant impacts in the field.
A study found that forensic anthropology is a relatively homogenous discipline, lacking diversity in terms of people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those with disabilities. The field struggles to keep up with issues relevant to society due to its lack of diversity.
A clinical trial called REPAIR-MDS will test repurposed drugs to improve hematological responses in MDS, reducing or reversing life-limiting deficiencies in red blood cells. The trial aims to improve the outlook for people with this rare condition, which has limited treatment options.
Researchers investigated state-imposed stay-at-home orders and African American population proportion in relation to COVID-19 cases from March to May 2020. The study found a significant association between these factors and state-level COVID-19 cases.
A clinical trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows that finerenone significantly slows the progression of diabetic kidney disease by 18% compared to a placebo. The study also found a reduction in cardiovascular event rates, offering new treatment options for patients with chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes.
A Winship Cancer Institute study shows that advanced molecular imaging with fluciclovine improves disease-free survival rates for patients with recurring prostate cancer after prostatectomy. The trial found a 12% better cancer control rate at three years, persisting at four years.
Burt's Bees presents research on bakuchiol, a natural alternative to retinol, with anti-inflammatory properties and improved skin health. The company also highlights the effectiveness of a natural lip balm containing turmeric in providing therapeutic benefits for dry or compromised lips.
Researchers have found a new way to make leukemic stem cells vulnerable by specifically dislodging them from their niches, allowing for potential treatment against chronic myeloid leukemia. The approach uses an RNA molecule complex to prevent the cancer stem cell's retention in its tumor-supporting niche.
A team of chemists from Scripps Research developed a theoretical approach that can ease the process of making highly complex, compact molecules. They used information theory and computer modeling to analyze the synthesis of bilobalide, a molecule with strong promise as a potential neurological or psychiatric drug.
The study reveals new details on how the retina works and photoreceptors convert light into nerve signals. Spontaneous calcium flares were discovered in the tips of the outer segment, indicating a functional gradient and a need for turnover.
Researchers found that elkhorn coral has a consistent immune response to diseases, indicating it actively fights off disease. The study suggests corals may have tougher epithelia and symbiotic dinoflagellates that develop differences in gene expression over time.
Researchers at NUST MISIS have developed a unique method to process bulk metallic glasses, improving their quality and properties. The new method increases tensile plasticity up to 1.5% and hardness by 25%, expanding the scope of application for these materials.
Researchers found that apigenin improved cognitive and memory deficits in mice with Down syndrome-like characteristics, reducing inflammation and increasing brain growth. This study raises the possibility of a prenatal treatment to lessen cognitive deficits in fetuses diagnosed with Down syndrome through prenatal testing.
A new study by Ashish Goyal and colleagues proposes that treating with potent antiviral therapy before peak viral load can effectively suppress viral AUC, reducing the duration of viral shedding. The model also suggests that timing is crucial in determining the effectiveness of different therapies against COVID-19.
A 14,000-year peat record reveals an ecosystem shift after seabird establishment 5,000 years ago, driven by guano-derived nutrients. This study highlights the critical role of seabirds in terrestrial ecosystems and warns of potential consequences for their survival in a warming climate.
A new database by the University of Nottingham's Rights Lab found that 90% of modern wars involve slavery and human trafficking. The most common form of enslavement was child soldiers, used in 87% of conflicts, while sexual exploitation and forced marriage were present in 32%.
A new study from University at Buffalo found that over 34% of older adults in the US are prescribed potentially inappropriate medications, leading to twice as many prescriptions and nearly twice as likely hospitalizations. These medications also cost patients an additional $458 per year.
Researchers at Swiss Federal Institute of Technology and Philochem AG describe four novel formats for L19-IL2 fusion proteins, featuring different arrangements of antibody and IL2, which exhibit superior tumor-targeting properties in vivo. The new format also reduces activation of regulatory T cells.
Researchers found that measures such as grip strength and lean mass are associated with bone density in premenopausal women, particularly those who engage in substantial physical activity. The study also highlights the importance of considering lifestyle factors beyond just body size and age.
A team of scientists discovered that membrane-attached protein IM30 forms a protective carpet on the surface of cell membranes under stress conditions. The protein's complex ring structure disassembles and unfolds into a protective shield, stabilizing membranes and preventing cell death.
Researchers found that extruding grains like corn, wheat, and sorghum improves amino acid digestibility and increases energy digestibility in pigs. This technology could lead to economic benefits by justifying the cost of adding extrusion equipment to feed mills.
The U.S. Army's Redstone Arsenal is using VizSeek technology to instantly locate critical data in legacy engineering drawings, reducing search time from hours to seconds. The partnership with Imaginestics and Purdue University aims to improve data management and protect the United States' digital assets.
A new time dilation phenomenon, known as quantum time dilation, has been predicted by researchers combining quantum mechanics and Einstein's theory of relativity. This effect can impact high-precision atomic clocks, leading to corrections in their accuracy.
Researchers at Chinese Academy of Sciences HQ found a pH-dependent switch in the interaction between protein molecules dockerin and cohesin, allowing for more complex biological switches. This discovery has potential applications in biofuel production, biotechnology and synthetic biology.
Researchers found that high concentrations of sunitinib in tumors, but not blood plasma, are associated with improved patient outcomes. The study's results suggest a safer and more effective treatment strategy for patients with advanced cancers.
A POSTECH research team has developed a faster charging and longer lasting battery material for electric cars. They proved that forming an intermediate phase during charging and discharging can generate high power without losing energy density or reducing particle size, enabling the development of long-lasting Li-ion batteries.
Researchers have characterized a new population of T cells called ThGM cells that produce GM-CSF, contributing to autoimmune response in MS. The study found that ThGM cells induce inflammation in the brain and spinal cord, suggesting their role in autoimmunity.
Residents of US counties with strong social ties to China or Italy were more likely to follow early pandemic restrictions. This finding highlights the importance of information environment in boosting the effectiveness of non-pharmaceutical interventions.
Researchers developed a new method to identify fossil pollen using super-resolution microscopy and machine learning, allowing for the classification of previously unknown legume groups. The trained models achieved 90.3% accuracy in identifying samples from ancient Africa and South America.
Younger patients with resected melanoma showed a benefit from adjuvant bevacizumab treatment, while older patients did not. The study suggests that sFRP2 may promote angiogenesis in older patients with melanoma, which is superseding the role of VEGF.
A team of scientists discovered that scansoriopterygids, a group of bat-winged theropod dinosaurs, were capable of clumsy gliding due to their unique wing shape. Despite their gliding abilities, they were unable to achieve powered flight and eventually became an evolutionary dead-end.
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that poor women in Dhaka slums are unwilling to give birth at maternal facilities due to fears of undocumented payments, lack of support and cultural perceptions. The study highlights the importance of providing pregnant women with information to break free from these fears.
Researchers develop reproducible protocol to assess immune effects of nucleic acid nanoparticles, a promising area of biomedical treatment. The protocol measures both quantitative and qualitative aspects of the immune response, enabling more accurate predictions and potential therapeutic uses.
A $14 million grant will support Pacific Islander cancer research through a 17-year partnership between University of Guam and University of Hawai'i Cancer Center. The collaboration aims to address significant cancer health disparities in the Pacific region.
A study led by Brazil's National Institute for Space Research found that regenerated forests in the Brazilian Amazon can offset 12% of carbon emissions due to deforestation. The study created 131 benchmark maps for Brazil and showed that secondary forests absorb a larger amount of carbon than they release.
Researchers discovered that passion and grit are strongly correlated in young people, especially boys, but this correlation fades with age. To maintain motivation, individuals must actively seek out meaningful activities and interests, and recognize the connections between passion, grit, and a positive mindset.
Scientists identified changes in the brain that drive alcohol abuse among people with PTSD, highlighting sex-specific differences that could lead to targeted treatments. Researchers found that males and females exhibit different symptoms and brain features of PTSD and alcohol use disorder.
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced US healthcare organizations to adapt rapidly, with hospitals facing shortages and evolving patient flow systems. Complexity science offers strategies for better response and anticipation, including engaging diverse perspectives in leadership teams, using new metrics that reflect complex healthcare syste...
A new study found that fipronil compounds were more toxic to stream communities than previously thought, with 16% of sampled US streams exceeding safe concentrations. The Southeast region showed the highest prevalence of fipronil, while Pacific Northwest streams detected only around 9%.
Researchers from the University of Kansas have characterized the atmospheric makeup of LTT 9779b, a highly unusual hot Neptune discovered by NASA's TESS mission. The study reveals the planet's temperature and composition, shedding light on the formation of exoplanet atmospheres.
A new Portuguese study shows that 90% of subjects have detectable antibodies 40 days to 7 months post contracting COVID-19. Age is not a confounding factor in levels of antibodies produced, but disease severity is observed.
CAM photosynthesis, used by arid plants, is introduced into C3 plants to reduce water loss. The study reveals alternative metabolic modes can provide environment-specific benefits under certain conditions, helping prepare for growing food crops in increasingly hot and dry temperate environments.
A global survey during the COVID-19 lockdown found that people with obesity improved their diets but experienced sharp declines in mental health and high incidence of weight gain. The study emphasizes the importance of monitoring mental health screenings and remote visits to prevent irreversible health effects.
A new ceramic artificial bone coating has been developed with improved adhesion strength, enabling robust coating on metal and polymer surfaces. This breakthrough reduces production cost and time for implant procedures, addressing issues such as inflammation and loose implants.
A new study examines the risk of acute kidney injury among Black individuals with sickle cell trait and disease, finding a higher risk for acute kidney injury and faster loss of kidney function. The study adds important information to sparse data on the risk of acute kidney injury in those carrying the sickle cell gene.