Researchers have identified a new virus, BV01, that infects a significant portion of the human gut microbiome, leading to changes in bacterial gene expression. The study reveals how the virus disrupts normal gut function and affects human health and disease.
The OU College of Medicine is launching a mobile classroom to promote diversity in health professions, aiming to recruit and retain students from rural and underserved areas. The grant-funded initiative will provide hands-on experience for young people across Oklahoma, particularly in smaller communities with limited resources.
Researchers examine textiles from Danish King Canute's and his brother Benedikt's shrines, concluding they are of the same age and match historical accounts. The textiles, originally meant for Benedikt, were likely moved to Canute's shrine after its enshrinement.
A new study estimates that the energy needed to provide decent living standards in 2050 could be met with less than 40% of today's global energy, roughly equivalent to levels in the 1960s. The research suggests that sweeping changes in consumption and widespread deployment of advanced technologies are necessary for achieving this goal.
Researchers repurpose anti-malarial compounds to target the intestinal parasite Cryptosporidium, killing it in cell cultures and immunocompromised mice. The compounds work by inhibiting an enzyme responsible for protein production within the parasite.
The joint project aims to develop digital courses and promote intercultural exchange between faculty and students. The collaboration will cover various aspects of music education, including musicianship, analysis, and composition.
Kyu Young Han, an assistant professor at the University of Central Florida, has been awarded a $1.7 million NIH grant to develop a novel bioengineering tool and imaging system for super-resolution microscopy. This technology could enable researchers to image multiple proteins in a single cell in just 24 hours, revolutionizing the under...
The study creates controlled X-ray radiation with a narrow spectrum, tunable at high resolution, from advanced van der Waals materials. This innovation has the potential to replace expensive facilities and enable new applications in medical imaging, chemical analysis, and security screening.
Researchers found a growing trend of anti-vaccination discourse on Facebook coalescing around the 'civil liberties' argument, which could impact vaccine-related legislation. The study examined over 250,000 posts on 204 Facebook pages and identified three distinct events that contributed to this shift in online discourse.
Researchers at MUSC Hollings Cancer Center identified multiple obstacles that prevent head and neck cancer patients from receiving timely radiation treatment, leading to worse survival outcomes. The study presents a novel framework for understanding these barriers and aims to improve patient care through an intervention strategy.
Researchers analyzed Steak-umm's Twitter account and found four key themes: praise, leadership, surprise, and intent to purchase. The study suggests that brands can connect with audiences online by communicating on a human-to-human level and contributing to social change.
A global analysis found that men predominate in over 85% of expert groups and task forces, with women making up just 11.5%. This 'disturbingly accepted pattern' of health governance underpins ineffective responses and costs lives. To combat this, experts advocate for truly representative membership, open communication, and inclusive da...
Small-scale farmers in Ghana are reluctant to adopt modern technologies that reduce traditional risks, such as poor weather conditions and aquatic predators. The study found that aversion to these risks accelerates the adoption of innovative technologies like floating cages and disease-resistant fish breeds.
A new treatment method for Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) has been patented by East Carolina University associate professor Stefan Clemens. The method targets the increased D1 receptor levels in RLS patients suffering from augmentation, leading to reduced activation and improved long-term efficacy.
A marketing study by University of Texas at Dallas researchers found that Viagra TV ads contributed to higher birth rates in areas with more ED drug ads. The study used a quasi field experiment design and considered factors such as weather, socioeconomic status, and advertising quality. The results suggest a 0.04-0.08% increase in tota...
A US survey of 430 Americans found 82% supportive of at least some parts of human-animal chimeric embryo research. Support varied by organ type, with highest for heart and liver, while concerns about animal welfare and human dignity were cited.
A Japanese team has developed a simple way to glean more detailed information from standard medical imaging scans by detecting the oxygen concentration of tissues throughout patients' bodies. The upgraded PET scanners may lead to more effective cancer treatment by quickly identifying parts of tumors with aggressive cell growth.
A joint research team has developed an ultrasensitive sensor that can detect microwaves with high sensitivity, enabling the commercialization of next-generation technologies like quantum computers. The device uses graphene and a Josephson junction to measure microwave photons absorbed per unit time.
RIT professors have received a National Science Foundation award to develop a hands-on data science course for non-computing majors. The course will teach students data science applications without requiring coding skills, addressing the growing demand for data science expertise in various disciplines.
A study by West Virginia University economists found that Pearl Jam's 'Home Shows' drove significant economic growth in Seattle, including a $58 million increase in hotel revenue and a 90% occupancy rate. The concerts were deemed ideal for attracting tourists due to their unique timing and fanbase.
Scientists at Imperial College London have developed a method to estimate the likelihood of future earthquakes in high-risk areas, improving precision by up to 49%. By analyzing rare atoms in precarious balance rocks (PBRs), they created a new technique to validate earthquake hazard estimates.
Researchers at EPFL have developed a novel deposition method that enables the creation of highly efficient and stable black-phase FAPbI3 perovskite solar cells. The new method, which uses vapor-assisted deposition, overcomes the stability issues associated with traditional methods, resulting in power-conversion efficiencies of over 23%.
A new study by Nagoya University reveals that narrow-range ultraviolet LED irradiation increases serum vitamin D levels and prevents the loss of bone and muscle mass in aging mice. This safe and stable method could be a promising approach for preventing and treating osteosarcopenia, a condition affecting daily life.
Researchers at uOttawa developed a novel computational procedure for enzyme design that approximates the intrinsic flexibility of protein scaffolds, improving catalytic efficiency by 1000-fold. This breakthrough enables the creation of artificial enzymes with high-efficiency catalysis on par with natural enzymes.
Researchers found that gene activity increases when forces are applied perpendicularly to a cell, but decreases when forces are applied along the long axis. The findings could provide insights into diseases such as fibrosis and cardiovascular disease.
Researchers analyzed crowdsourced data from over 800 people during COVID-19 lockdown and found that 55% of bad dreams had pandemic-specific content. AI-assisted analytics identified recurring themes, including failures in social distancing, coronavirus contagion, and dystopia.
Researchers at the University of Colorado Cancer Center found that disparities in cancer outcomes for Black patients are largely caused by unequal access to healthcare. The study examined Medicare data for individuals with squamous cell cancer of the head and neck, controlling for factors such as stage of diagnosis and treatment receiv...
Researchers discovered venom glands in the mouth of caecilians, a type of limbless amphibian, which release a secretion into prey during biting. This is the first time such glands have been found in amphibians, and it suggests that caecilians can be venomous.
Climate security discussion is scarce in Japan, with overlooked risks including indirect economic losses and potential refugee influxes. The country's approach to addressing climate change should consider long-term irreversible planetary changes and short-term abrupt risks to individuals.
A new study has found that people with Parkinson's disease have a 30% higher risk of dying from COVID-19 compared to those without the condition. The analysis, conducted by researchers at the University of Iowa Health Care, also found that patients with PD were generally older and more likely to be male than those without PD.
Research reveals Procerodes littoralis flatworm can regenerate and repair itself under changing sea water conditions. The species has extended its salinity tolerance range over the past century, suggesting evolutionary rescue in response to climate change.
Researchers discovered a novel mutation in the VCP gene leading to a buildup of tau proteins and neuronal vacuoles, characteristic of Vacuolar Tauopathy (VT), a rare neurodegenerative disease. The study suggests a new therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease by boosting VCP activity to break up protein aggregates.
A study analyzing nearly a thousand individuals' nightmares during the COVID-19 pandemic found that more than half featured pandemic-related themes. The study used AI-based analysis to identify recurring word associations in dreams, revealing 'dream clusters' that echoed the apocalyptic atmosphere of the pandemic.
A study suggests that conserving aquatic environments in the Amazon can be more efficient than protecting terrestrial species, with benefits reaching 84% of protection for aquatic species. The approach focuses on rivers and lakes, rather than land-based conservation units.
Researchers used computer analysis of CT scans to identify women at high risk of cardiovascular disease, with those having the highest CAC score showing a 3.7 times greater risk. The study showed that treating breast cancer means finding a balance between tackling tumors and minimizing side effects, including cardiovascular disease.
Researchers found that blue whales sing mainly at night during the summer feeding season, but switch to daytime singing when preparing to migrate. This discovery may explain inconsistencies in whale song patterns.
A new RAND Corporation report examines foreign election interference in the US, focusing on creating distrust among Americans and reducing consensus. The study reveals that Russia's efforts are based on Cold War strategies aimed at undermining democratic governance processes.
A new study suggests that banning menthol cigarettes could avert over 630,000 deaths and benefit communities of color. The research highlights the disproportionate preference for menthol among young smokers, Black smokers, lesbian and gay smokers, bisexual smokers, and those with mental health problems.
A study by Penn State researchers found that suburban areas support the highest number of cricket and katydid species due to intermediate levels of urbanization. The use of aural point count surveys offers a simple and efficient method for monitoring and mapping insect populations, providing vital insights for conservation efforts.
A new study published in Biological Psychiatry found that individuals with secure attachment styles have neutralized genetic risk factors for PTSD symptoms. The ability to form loving and trusting relationships with others was found to be a strong protective factor against severe PTSD symptoms.
A new study reveals that mouse ependymal cells have latent potential to differentiate into oligodendrocytes, which provide protective insulation for neural wiring. This finding suggests an alternative approach to spinal cord repair by leveraging resident stem cells.
Catherine Marinac receives Sharp Tank Award to study health disparities in multiple myeloma and tailor interventions for diverse patient populations. The award supports research on early intervention and treatment for precursor multiple myeloma, a rare blood cancer disproportionately affecting people of color.
A machine learning program using neural networks analyzes 1.4 million data points to predict which babies and children are most likely to suffer brain injury after Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) treatment, outperforming human clinicians.
The NeoALTTO BIG-06 trial found that women who achieved pathological complete response (pCR) after treatment had better long-term survival without cancer recurrence. Patients receiving both lapatinib and trastuzumab in combination also had a higher rate of pCR, resulting in improved overall survival rates.
A longitudinal study of COVID-19 convalescent plasma donors found that antibodies against the virus decline within three months of symptom onset. Donating plasma within this timeframe ensures higher antibody titers, which are essential for effective treatment.
A new Amazon study suggests that by redesigning conservation projects to consider both freshwater and land species, big positive gains can be made for critical freshwater ecosystems. Conservation efforts could deliver up to 600% more protection for these ecosystems without negatively affecting land species.
A new study predicts a 36% global increase in invasive insect species by 2050, with Europe and Asia experiencing the strongest invasions. This research provides a baseline for assessing future biological invasions, enabling proactive measures to contain their spread.
Researchers at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have discovered that noble metal clusters are more reactive than individual atoms, allowing for improved removal of exhaust gases. The clusters exhibit optimal structure for high activity, enabling the development of catalysts with enhanced stability and long-term performance.
Researchers from the Event Horizon Telescope collaboration used the first horizon-scale image of a black hole to test general relativity, deepening understanding of black holes and ruling out many alternatives. The study found that the size of the black hole shadow corroborates the predictions of general relativity.
The MAP Congress 2020 aimed to answer the critical question of how to integrate tumour sample analysis into daily practice. Key findings highlighted actionable mutations in patient DNA for personalized treatment, with expert guidance on molecular targeting and biomarkers.
A new study published in JAMA Cardiology found that 30,000 out of every 100,000 stress tests performed each year were unnecessary for patients undergoing knee and hip replacement surgeries. Despite a decrease in overall stress testing since 2006, the study highlights the need for educational initiatives to improve the utilization of me...
A new study reveals that nanoparticles can damage human cells when combined, even if individual types do not cause harm. Researchers call for more studies on the effects of lifelong exposure to nanoparticles, which are used in various products and manufacturing processes.
A new study published in Transplantation found that organ transplant recipients are at a higher risk of death from COVID-19 due to the use of hydroxychloroquine treatment. The study examined data from COVID-19 positive adult solid organ transplant recipients and non-transplant patients matched by age, race, and hospital admission status.
A recent study published in Aging and Mental Health suggests that wisdom is a strong protective factor against loneliness. The research, conducted in both San Diego and Cilento, Italy, found a significant inverse correlation between loneliness and wisdom across different age groups.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet discovered that stem cells in the mouse spinal cord can form new oligodendrocytes, essential for neuronal signal transmission, to help repair damaged tissue. This finding indicates a conceptually new strategy for stimulating repair after nervous system damage.
Project EARTH aims to separate and recycle hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants, reducing their global-warming potential. The US market for recycling refrigerants is valued at over $1 billion, with eliminating high-GWP refrigerants equivalent to eliminating 175 million metric tons of carbon dioxide.
The AGA Fecal Microbiota Transplantation National Registry reported that FMT led to a cure of C. difficile infection in 90% of patients across 20 North American FMT practice sites, with few serious side effects. The study included 259 patients enrolled between December 2017 and September 2019.
Hubble observed SN 2018gv in February 2018 to precisely measure the universe's expansion rate. The supernova serves as a 'milepost marker' to calculate galaxy distances and fundamental values needed for measuring space expansion.
A recent study published in CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians found that little effort has been made to increase older adult participation in cancer clinical trials, despite the disproportionate impact of cancer on this age group. The researchers called for a more inclusive approach, recommending that trials ask targeted questions an...
The University of Maine will host the 27th NSF EPSCoR National Conference in November 2021 with a focus on 'translating stakeholder needs into impactful research outcomes.' The conference aims to increase research capacity and advance STEM education in jurisdictions that have historically received limited funding from NSF.