A $1.3 million DOE grant is funding a five-year collaboration to examine the genetic and environmental factors affecting mycorrhizal symbioses in field conditions. Researchers will use shotgun sequencing, artificial intelligence, and microscopy to understand how plants control their associations with beneficial fungi.
A recent study by the Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences found that one quarter of prescription drugs in Canada were reported in shortage during a study period. The average length of a shortage was five months, with markets with single generic manufacturers being the most vulnerable to shortage.
The University of South Carolina's research team will use a four-year NASA grant to develop an atom-to-airframe approach, increasing the production rate of aircraft and making urban air mobility possible. The project aims to produce 100 aircraft per day, a significant increase from current rates.
Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a new tool to analyze molecules that is 100 times faster than previous methods. This new method, called time-stretch infrared spectroscopy, can achieve 80 million spectra per second.
A randomized trial found that continuing common heart medications in COVID-19 patients did not negatively impact their health. The trial enrolled 659 patients and showed no significant difference in the number of days alive and out of hospital between those who continued and suspended their medications.
Research at the Panama Canal has recorded 11 new marine fish species, replacing freshwater fishes in Lake Gatun. The Suez Canal expansion also led to increased salt levels, allowing more non-native species to enter the Mediterranean.
A new study published in Journal of Lipid Research reveals that the gut microbiomes of breastfed infants differ from those of formula-fed infants due to dietary sphinganine, a nutrient found in human milk. Researchers developed a technique to track specific nutrients as they interact with gut microbes, identifying two types of bacteria...
Purdue engineers have developed a simple printing process that renders any paper or cardboard packaging into easy-to-use human-machine interfaces. The technology allows for the fabrication of vertical pressure sensors without external batteries, harvesting energy from user contact.
New York and California may have achieved herd immunity due to declining reported mortality rates and low basic reproduction numbers. According to Prof. Last's model, these states have a high percentage of infected individuals, indicating a potential end to the COVID-19 peak.
A study of over 27,000 COVID-19 samples reveals low genetic variation in SARS-CoV-2, suggesting a single vaccine could combat global infections. This finding supports the development of a broadly protective vaccine against COVID-19, building on previous successes with other viruses.
Researchers at RMIT University have developed electronic artificial skin that senses pain instantly, mimicking the body's near-instant feedback response. The prototype device combines three technologies to deliver key features of the skin's sensing capability in electronic form.
A new statewide initiative aims to provide emergency expansion of mental health care across Colorado, focusing on suicide prevention and addressing the unique challenges faced by communities at high risk. The program, supported by a $800,000 grant, will train providers in evidence-based practices and promote protective factors.
The BCG vaccine has been shown to protect elderly people against various respiratory infections, including those of viral origin. This protective effect was observed in a double-blind randomized clinical study, which found that BCG-vaccinated participants had 75% fewer respiratory infections than placebo recipients.
A Boston University School of Public Health study found that mobile e-shredding trucks expose workers to toxic metals and particles, posing health risks. The study calls for improved safety guidelines to protect vulnerable populations who are disproportionately affected by the growing industry.
A German-Israeli research team found that nature conservation initiatives rarely lead to behavioral changes, citing the need for a broader range of interventions. The study analyzed eight national strategy papers on pollinator conservation and identified a lack of focus on behavioral change interventions, with most measures relying on ...
The study found that the neurons in the inner prefrontal cortex respond more to loss than gain, while the hippocampus is affected by post-loss activity and anxiety. This suggests a close relationship between memory processes and decision-making in stressful situations.
Researchers aim to curb idling, a main source of pollution, by using displays similar to speed limit signs. The system will collect and integrate air-quality measurements, local weather conditions, and thermal images to provide feedback to drivers.
A new project aims to explore insect-based feeds for poultry and aquaculture industries, which could help the UK meet its net-zero emissions target. The team will work on efficient insect production methods to lower costs and environmental impact.
A multinational study has overturned a 130-year old assumption about seawater chemistry, finding that the ratios of key elements like calcium, magnesium and strontium vary considerably across the ocean. This discovery challenges past hypotheses and models, requiring scientists to re-examine their understanding of ocean chemistry.
A new study found that an educational mailing did not increase the uptake of stroke prevention drugs among patients with atrial fibrillation. The IMPACT-AFib trial involved over 47,000 patients and showed no significant difference in oral anticoagulant initiation between the intervention group and control group.
A new study has shown that Zika virus can create a robust inflammatory environment in the placenta, leading to pathological changes and impact on fetal development. The findings provide valuable insights into mother-to-baby transmission of Zika virus and may lead to the development of detection methods and treatments.
A Yale clinical trial is using an automated bilingual computerized approach to screen for and intervene with high-risk drinking behaviors among Latino patients in emergency departments. The study aims to explore unique differences within Latino subgroups and advance understanding of addressing health disparities in alcohol use disorders.
A study published in The BMJ found that pregnant women with COVID-19 are more likely to need intensive care and give birth prematurely compared to non-pregnant women. Maternal risk factors include increasing age, high body mass index, and pre-existing medical conditions.
Researchers discovered that individual muscle cell contractions provide essential information, enabling muscles to flex with precise control. This finding challenges the notion of 'noise' or error, revealing biological systems may have evolved to incorporate variation as a means of communication.
New research by the British Trust for Ornithology finds that drones can scare wintering waterbirds into flight, causing them to waste energy and reduce their feeding time. The study reveals that larger flocks are more likely to respond to drone disturbance, with habitats like arable farmland being particularly sensitive.
The article discusses the importance of peak performance in surgical training, citing the need for perseverance, stoicism, and grit. HSS physicians offer practical advice on achieving peak performance, including growing self-awareness through mindfulness activities and refining physical skills through deliberate practice.
Tropical Depression 15 formed over the Atlantic Ocean, east of North Carolina, and has been battling wind shear. The depression is currently 140 miles east-southeast of Cape Hatteras, moving toward the east-northeast at 14 mph.
Researchers discovered that the KATANIN enzyme plays a crucial role in moderating mechanical properties of papilla cell walls, allowing correct pollen tube orientation and successful fertilization. This finding suggests KATANIN's potential role in the success of flowering plants on Earth.
Researchers found that face shields and masks with exhalation valves are less effective in preventing the spread of COVID-19 than cloth or surgical masks. The study used visualizations to show how droplets can pass through the valve unfiltered, making these masks ineffective.
Researchers found two neighboring bonobo groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo to have distinct hunting preferences for different types of prey. The study suggests that these differences are likely a result of learned social behavior, challenging the idea that cultural traits only exist in human societies.
A graduate student has identified a new marine wood-boring trace fossil, Apectoichnus lignummasticans, found in the University of Alberta's Drill Core Collection. The discovery provides evidence that the shallow sea covering Western Canada extended into Saskatchewan roughly 100 million years ago.
A new study found that a fully automated digital version of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia was effective in improving sleep quality and reducing the need for sleeping pills. The treatment helped approximately 58% of participants experience substantial improvement, compared to 20% in the control group.
Cyber-physical systems face challenges due to large volumes of data flowing through communication networks, causing routing and queuing delays that degrade system quality. The new algorithms developed by researchers strike a balance between communication sparsity, delay, and performance, ensuring safe and stable operation.
A new framework helps protect over 300 invasive alien species threatening UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including rats, cats, and Argentine ants. The framework provides a systematic method for reporting on invasive species management, threat levels, and knowledge gaps.
Researchers studied AS interdependence, peering relationships, and cybersecurity threats. They found that organisations can't control their partners' choices, increasing the attack surface. However, some connections can reduce security threats by facilitating information sharing. Education and awareness are key to improving cybersecuri...
A study of over 180 girls found that those entering puberty early have a longer window of susceptibility to breast cancer, with higher growth hormone levels and slower pubertal progression. This can be mitigated through healthy lifestyle habits, such as exercise, balanced diet, and reduced exposure to endocrine disruptors.
An interdisciplinary team at TUM advocates integrating ethics into AI development from the beginning. Key findings show that embedded ethics approach can promote ethical awareness and social issues analysis in engineering teams. The project aims to develop concrete solutions for engineers and designers.
A new study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal found that UT Southwestern's expanded telehealth services increased patient care in specialties like plastic surgery. The study reported significant benefits for patients, including reduced stress, missed work, and hospital visits, as well as improved access to care.
A large Swedish-Norwegian study involving over two million pregnancies found no association between modafinil use and an increased risk of fetal malformations. The study, published in JAMA, compared exposure to modafinil during early pregnancy with non-exposure, finding a relative risk of 1.06, which was not statistically significant.
Researchers found comparable immune reactions in clinical follow-up of recovered and seriously ill Covid-19 patients. A strong T-cell and antibody response was detected in both mild and critically ill patients, but did not guarantee recovery.
Researchers report the first effective therapy for fainting, which is caused by a fall in blood pressure and/or number of heart beats. The new treatment involves pacemaker therapy, showing a 77% relative risk reduction of fainting over two years.
A new study examines the planning challenges in rural gateway communities across the American West, where booming tourism and steady population growth pose unprecedented pressures. Housing affordability is a top concern, with nearly all survey respondents and interviewees citing it as an urgent issue.
A new study found that even in people with normal blood pressure, lowering blood pressure can prevent heart attacks and strokes. The study, which included over 348,000 participants, showed a significant reduction in cardiovascular events with every 5mmHg drop in systolic blood pressure.
New research from Uppsala University reveals that Swedish construction workers' wages rose by 176% between 1831 and 1900, surpassing other European cities like Amsterdam and Paris. This unexpected trend can be attributed to high labor market mobility and mass emigration to America, which reduced the supply of unskilled labor.
A new study models the estimated time to clear surgeries postponed in Ontario due to COVID-19, predicting an 84-week backlog. The target is 717 surgeries per week, with a focus on prioritizing critical procedures.
The new guidelines update recommendations for feline vaccinations, encouraging veterinarians to consider individualized risk factors and lifestyle-based vaccine calculators. The guidelines aim to improve feline wellbeing by providing tailored vaccination protocols and educating pet owners about the importance of vaccination.
A study found that red foxes are outcompeting Arctic foxes for food in the high mountains, thanks to human littering. In contrast, Arctic foxes avoid areas with more litter and prefer cleaner habitats. This shift is altering alpine ecosystems.
Researchers have developed novel Selenium-based compounds that can stabilize the SOD1 protein, which causes ALS. These compounds show improved in vitro therapeutic effects and demonstrate disease onset delay in an ALS mouse model. The findings hold promise for a new class of drug candidates for ALS treatment.
An observational study investigated SARS-CoV-2 transmission among bus riders in Eastern China, revealing potential for airborne spread. The study found that close contact and airborne transmission were common factors in the outbreak.
Researchers at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute found that natural killer cells are essential for slowing small cell lung cancer's aggressive spread, while T cells do not play a significant role. Supercharging NK cells further enhances their cancer-fighting abilities, offering hope for better treatments.
A membrane-based invention can concentrate virus content from urine or saliva samples, allowing for early detection of COVID-19. The technique is promising for pregnancy testing as well, with a sample analysis time of just five minutes.
The European Federation for Science Journalism has announced the three Climate Grant winners, with grants totaling 10,500 euros. Klaartje Jaspers and Bellah Zulu's project Biased biomass won 4000 euros, while Natalia Paramonova, Evgenia Zhulanova, and Daria Checalskaia's
A $2.3 million NIH grant will train community health workers in research best practices to engage underserved communities in clinical research. The project aims to address four main issues: standardized education, culturally relevant training, accessibility, and empowering community health workers as peer mentors.
Researchers found that overexpression of gene BIRC2 makes cancer cells resistant to immunotherapy drugs. The study suggests that BIRC2 could be a key marker for identifying patients who may not respond to immunotherapy, paving the way for personalized treatment approaches.
A recent EU study found that VAT cuts are less likely to be passed on to consumer prices than hikes, with firms instead using the reduction to improve finances. The study analyzed over 2800 commodities and found that prices tend to rise 3-4 times more after a VAT hike.
Researchers found that UVB exposure expands regulatory T cells expressing proenkephalin and amphiregulin, promoting wound healing and keratinocyte growth. These PENK+UVB-skin Treg cells have a novel therapeutic potential for treating psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.
A genetics study in wild turquoise killifish reveals that small population sizes contribute to the accumulation of harmful mutations, leading to shorter lifespans. The findings provide insights into how population dynamics influence aging and could inform new approaches to understanding human aging.
Researchers found a strong linear relationship between societal generosity and life expectancy. Societies with higher transfer payments have lower mortality rates, particularly in Western European countries and Japan.
The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) recommends bidirectional endoscopy for asymptomatic patients with iron deficiency anemia to detect underlying causes such as gastrointestinal malignancy, peptic ulcer disease, and inflammatory bowel disease. Non-invasive testing, including Helicobacter pylori and celiac disease testing...
Researchers at Newcastle University propose a new theory that links hearing loss to dementia, suggesting that the auditory system's impact on brain function may trigger Alzheimer's disease. The study identifies key aspects of this connection, including memory centers and cognitive impairment.
A study of over 200,000 UK men found a link between central adiposity and the risk of death from prostate cancer. Those with larger waist circumferences were more likely to die from prostate cancer than those with smaller waist sizes.
Researchers have successfully observed the desorption of long polymer chains from a surface, classifying it as a first-order phase transition. This breakthrough study uses fast scanning calorimetry to measure heat exchange and characterizes the elusive adsorption/desorption transition.
Scientists at HKU and Stanford University develop a new data storage method that uses quantum geometry to store information. This technology reduces energy consumption by over 100 times compared to traditional methods, making it ideal for emerging in-memory computing and neural network computing.
The EuroCC project, coordinated by the Gauss Centre for Supercomputing, will build a sustainable European HPC ecosystem. The network will be supported by CASTIEL, which will promote interaction and expertise exchange across the entire EuroCC network.
Maria Pazi, a Russian science journalist with a background in biology, won the award for her outstanding work. She was chosen from among numerous nominees, including Micho Tatalovic and Stan van Pelt, who also received recognition for their contributions to European science journalism.
The opioid crisis presents complex ethical challenges, including the conflation of pain policy with drug policy. Researchers argue that tailoring policy to root causes can improve treatment outcomes. Disentangling these issues is crucial for developing humane and ethical solutions.
Researchers from Florida Atlantic University found that face shields block initial droplet motion but allow them to disperse widely. Masks with exhalation valves also have limited effectiveness due to unfiltered air passage.
Gallium nitride is a flawed water splitting photocatalyst due to photocorrosion damage. Combining it with iron oxide improves its working lifetime and hydrogen production rate by five times.
Research found that military training attenuates the sense of agency and outcome processing in individuals, especially those in lower ranks. In contrast, senior personnel showed no such effect. The study suggests that hierarchical environments can negatively impact an individual's feeling of responsibility for their actions.
When brain oxygen is low, neurons produce estrogen that activates astrocytes to increase cell signaling, release neuroprotective factors, and clear neurotoxins. Astrocyte activation is critical for brain protection, and researchers have found that neuron-derived estrogen is essential for this process.
A study by McGill University researchers has identified neural markers related to beat synchronization in musicians' brains, revealing that it takes more than just moving or listening well to keep the beat. The findings suggest that practice can improve one's ability to synchronize and that around 2-3% of the population are 'beat deaf',
Researchers found that deleting AMPK from astrocyte brain cells disrupts glucose and lactate metabolism in neurons, leading to spontaneous seizures. The study suggests that metformin, an antidiabetic drug, may mitigate epileptic seizures by targeting AMPK.
Research using a mouse model of DiGeorge syndrome found misfiring motor neurons responsible for tongue movement, leading to swallowing difficulties. The study aims to improve function in young children with difficulty eating or making sounds.
A UK survey of over 800 adults found that most struggled with weight management during the pandemic, citing increased snacking and reduced exercise. However, those who received weight-management support continued to lose weight and reported higher wellbeing.
A study at the University of Houston found that concrete language styles and storytelling techniques can boost restaurant crowdfunding success rates. Using specific words, such as articles and prepositions, and delivering stories with fewer first-person pronouns can make pitches more compelling to investors.
Researchers from the University of Hong Kong investigated SARS-CoV-2 transmission via fecal aerosols in a Guangzhou high-rise apartment building. They found evidence suggesting that toilet flushing by infected patients may have caused the outbreak. The study's findings emphasize the importance of adequate hygiene and ventilation to pre...
Researchers tracked changes in loggerhead sea turtle behavior before and after Hurricane Irene passed through the Mid-Atlantic Bight. The study found that turtles reacted to environmental changes, including cooler surface temperatures and disrupted thermocline layers, which influenced their movements and dive behavior.
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated changes in treatment and research for psychiatric disorders, particularly substance use disorders. The study highlights the need for continued innovation and investment in this area to address the growing public health crisis.
Mechanical engineering researchers studied fruit flies' eye movements to improve robotic flight control. The study found that flies use eye movements to quickly coordinate their wings in response to visual cues, with reactions up to four times faster than the body or wings.
Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi have identified 61 genetic targets that can manipulate the biofouling activities of phytoplankton, paving the way for new eco-friendly antifouling methods. The study presents key insight into molecular signaling pathways and protein receptors involved in biofouling.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center created a 3D blood vessel model to study how cancer cells spread. They found that cancer cells can take over existing blood vessels, causing them to leak or constrict, and release tumor cells into the bloodstream.
Researchers found that olfactory sensory neurons can activate antiviral genes to fight off the virus, but at a higher level than other cell types. This unique response may be a brain-protective mechanism, allowing these cells to avoid being destroyed by the infection.
Researchers at USC Viterbi develop a method to upcycle carbon dioxide emissions into polymers and other materials using sunlight, breaking the need for energy-intensive processes. High school student researcher Samantha J. Gomez contributes to the study, which aims to reduce environmental impacts.
A new study found that young adults who used legal performance-enhancing substances were more likely to report problematic alcohol use and drinking-related risk behaviors seven years later. The study highlights the need for government oversight and regulation of these substances, which can lead to health problems and worsen mental health.
Researchers at Flinders University have discovered a blood serum microRNA biomarker signature for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma, which may help detect other head and neck cancers. The signature has potential for surveillance, earlier diagnosis, and treatment of head and neck cancer.
Fire experiments in a test tunnel revealed that burning electric cars pose less risk than gasoline/diesel cars due to state-of-the-art ventilation systems. However, extinguishing water poses a challenge, as it's poisonous and requires special handling.
A recent study by McMaster University found that only 28% of new Canadian drugs have clear pediatric data, and many critical diseases lack approved treatments. This absence perpetuates 'off-label' drug use, which can lead to inadequate treatment or increased side effects.
Researchers developed a novel design approach for a miniature, low-frequency antenna that improves upon limitations of conventional antennas. The new antenna enables robust networking among compact, mobile robots in complex environments with more than threefold bandwidth enhancement.
The Aboriginal Legal Service is developing a user-friendly digital platform to improve its Custody Notification Service. The project aims to optimize data collation and make information more accessible for wider insights and understanding. This enhancement will strengthen the organization's advocacy, policy, and law reform work.
American mastodons moved north from southern ranges in response to warming climate conditions and melting ice sheets. Genetic analysis suggests that these massive increases in territory made northern populations more vulnerable to extinction.
Researchers developed a smart wall that functions as both a support structure and a cooling system, potentially lowering energy bills. Scientists also discovered a way to control the size of magnetic quasi-particles called skyrmions, which could advance high-density data storage and quantum magnets. Additionally, a new method for gaugi...
Scientists have discovered that C3 grasses outcompete C4 grasses in hot, dry conditions due to precipitation patterns changing throughout the year. This shift has a self-fueling power, with C3 plants preemptively using soil water before C4 species become active.
Research published in Nature Precision Oncology reveals that honeybee venom and its compound melittin rapidly destroy triple-negative and HER2-enriched breast cancer cells. The venom's potency allows for selective cell death with minimal effects on normal cells.
A study analyzed CT scans from 54 frog families to show that burrowing frogs have a diverse and quirky skeleton. To train like a forward burrower, strengthen your upper back by doing exercises such as the Prone W and focus on building strength in the shoulder blade area with pullups and pushups.
A new study published in Biological Reviews reviewed dinosaur body mass estimation techniques, finding that most estimates agree despite different approaches. The researchers recommend better-integrating scaling and reconstruction methods to estimate the sizes of Mesozoic dinosaurs more accurately.
After a century of being ignored by scientists, the Black sea spider crab has been re-described by a research team led by Dr Vassily Spiridonov. The team analyzed molecular genetic barcode data to confirm that Macropodia czernjawskii is a distinct species with epibiosis, including a non-indigenous red alga species found in its epibiosis.
A double-blind study found that middle-aged mice treated with alpha-ketaglutarate had a significantly improved healthspan, experiencing fewer diseases and disabilities before death. The study suggests that AKG may suppress chronic inflammation, which is a major driver of aging.
A European study involving over 4,000 children found that excessive screen time and inadequate sleep duration are independently linked to excess weight. The study suggests that prevention strategies should prioritize adequate sleep and limit screen time to reduce the risk of overweight and obesity.
A survey of over 6,000 US and UK adults found that attitudes towards obesity are changing, with more Americans viewing it as a medical problem. In contrast, nearly one-third of UK respondents still blame people with obesity for their condition.
This study aims to provide suggestions on how to ensure compliance with health-promoting behaviors and manage negative feelings associated with the pandemic. The research project focuses on three sub-studies: message framing, coping with negative emotions, and social distancing messages.
Researchers developed a layered glass material allowing for acoustic propagation without air ventilation. The decorated window comprises ordinary glass, resulting in an inexpensive and optically transparent material.
A new study reveals that American mastodons took frequent trips north when the climate changed, with northern populations being less genetically diverse and more at risk of extinction. The research suggests that examining how different species responded to climate change can provide valuable insights for modern conservation efforts.
A study from Aarhus University found that relatives with severe long-term grief reactions have more frequent GP contact and higher medication use before bereavement. This suggests that early intervention may help prevent severe grief reactions.