A new international study published in JAMA found that treating critically ill COVID-19 patients with the steroid hydrocortisone improves their chances of recovery. The study showed a 93% chance of better outcomes for patients treated with a fixed dose of hydrocortisone.
A study of over 2,000 species reveals that common animal populations are rising and falling at a rate similar to rare species due to global change. Amphibians, however, experienced declines, while birds, mammals, and reptiles showed increases.
The detection of GW190521 reveals the existence of intermediate-mass black holes, weighing in at 100 to 100,000 solar masses. This finding offers insights into the origin of supermassive black holes and raises new questions about their formation.
The NIH is awarding contracts to nine companies for technologies that include portable point-of-care tests and high-throughput laboratories. These tests aim to provide rapid results and expand national testing in regions of need.
A recent clinical trial has shown that an experimental medication, AMX0035, can slow the progression of Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by improving functional outcomes. The study involved 137 participants with ALS and demonstrated a significant slowing of disease progression.
Research monitored 30 Chinese lakes between 2008 and 2018, showing increases in total phosphorus and chlorophyll a across 47% and 70% of lakes, respectively. Climate change and internal loading from sediments also pose significant challenges to lake restoration efforts.
Research reveals that circadian rhythms play a crucial role in guiding waste removal from the brain through the glymphatic system. The study found that individuals who rely on daytime sleep are at higher risk for developing neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's and dementia.
A study suggests that childhood obesity should be considered a child protection concern, but disagreements persist among professionals. The research highlights the need for professional guidelines to address the issue, as inconsistent threshold judgments and personal values influence decision-making.
Scientists have identified a promising new system to attack tumors directly by combining a small biomolecule with a toxic metal complex. The molecule's luminescent properties allow for detection within cells and demonstrate its toxic effect, paving the way for further research into this innovative theranostic system.
A study from Duke University and Barnard College found that the pandemic accelerated mental decline in parents and children, with multiple hardships exacerbating negative effects. The research highlights the need for pediatricians to screen for mental health problems and provide support to families struggling during the crisis.
A two-year study by the University of Leeds has linked treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with improvements in vascular stiffness, an indicator of cardiovascular disease. The findings could inform management strategy for patients with RA and highlight the need to consider increased CVD risk factors.
A new model integrates two phases of matter accumulation in active galaxies, revealing a universal mechanism for ejection of matter by black holes. The research suggests that the molecular phase is part of the outflow, blowing away more matter than previously thought.
A large international study of progressive MS found minimal changes in depression, anxiety, and quality of life during pandemic lockdowns. Participants adapted to lockdown conditions by engaging in mental and physical activities, which may have provided a sense of control and countered negative emotional reactions.
Scientists at UC San Diego have developed a new anode material that enables safer, faster lithium-ion battery charging. The Li3V2O5 disordered rocksalt offers improved safety and energy density, with the potential to replace graphite and lithium titanate anodes.
A team of scientists is developing genetically engineered switchgrass types that can grow anywhere and maximize crop yield, stress tolerance, and carbon sequestration. The research aims to create a sustainable biofuel solution to meet domestic energy demands.
Researchers discuss theoretical frameworks for electromagnetic chirality in chiral materials and fields, enabling understanding of complex chiroptical phenomena. Chirality is a qualitative property but measurable quantities can be described using chiroptical parameters.
The conference highlights research on emotion AI, expressive writing, and dialogue systems to mitigate the impacts of COVID-19. Virtual attendees can engage with keynote speakers and other participants in interactive spaces, facilitating social interaction and discussion.
Vanderbilt University Medical Center is launching a clinical trial of promising treatments for COVID-19 in the outpatient setting as part of the ACTIV-2 protocol. The study aims to find a safe and effective treatment for non-hospitalized patients with COVID-19.
Researchers at McGill University have discovered that bacteria and carpenter ants collaborated to alter the development of the ant embryo, creating a single complex life form. The study reveals that this integration occurred in a series of steps, with the bacteria exploiting existing genetic loci within the ant embryos.
A new study models trade growth and port demand until 2050 under different climate policy scenarios, finding that port expansion will be necessary to meet increasing demand. The cost of building new port capacity is projected to exceed sea-level rise adaptation costs, with estimated costs ranging from $750 billion.
A team of researchers, led by the University of Texas at Austin, has cracked the code of a scientific anomaly that enables ultra-fast battery energy storage systems. They found metal compounds with up to three times the energy storage capability compared to common materials.
Astronomers detect the most massive black hole collision ever observed, involving two mammoth black holes weighing 85 and 66 times the mass of the Sun. The larger black hole is considered 'impossible' due to its mass exceeding predicted limits.
Researchers developed a machine learning approach to examine placentas, decreasing healthcare costs and allowing more women to be informed of their health risks. The algorithm can identify diseased blood vessels indicating preeclampsia risk with high accuracy.
A randomized clinical trial found that intravenous hydrocortisone improved 21-day organ support-free days in patients with severe COVID-19. The study, stopped early due to another trial's results, investigated the effectiveness of hydrocortisone on mortality and organ support.
A large population-based study suggests that people with COVID-19 should be retested 4 or more weeks after symptoms first appear to minimize the risk of onward infection. The study found a relatively high rate of false negative test results in early convalescence, highlighting the need for accurate assessment and follow-up testing.
Researchers identified EphA2 as a key driver of metastasis and BRAF-MEK inhibitor resistance in melanoma. The study found that the noncanonical pathway of EphA2 induces an amoeboid phenotype that enhances metastatic potential.
Researchers found that remote work facilitated by the pandemic will lead to issues such as reduced social connectedness, increased risk of substance abuse, and need for new performance management systems. Companies may also need to create or augment employee assistance programs to address these concerns.
Northern Arizona University assistant professor Cristina Thomas has received NASA grants to study small Koronis asteroids and Trojan-like asteroids in the Main Asteroid Belt. Her research will help scientists better understand the origins of asteroids and provide insights into space weathering and material delivery to the belt.
Scientists at Rice University have created a two-dimensional material with unique optical characteristics that can be controlled by ambient light. This innovation has the potential to aid the development of 3D displays, virtual reality, and lidar systems for self-driving vehicles.
Scientists discovered that mechanical properties of tissue elements surrounding pre-malignant cells influence the development of basal and squamous cell carcinomas, two common forms of skin cancer. The research may help predict how a tumor will evolve and lead to novel anti-cancer therapies.
A randomized clinical trial found that intravenous dexamethasone plus standard care increased the number of days patients were alive and free from mechanical ventilation. The study involved 299 patients with moderate or severe acute respiratory distress syndrome due to COVID-19, and the results suggest a potential treatment benefit.
Researchers at Boyce Thompson Institute have discovered a new gene, Pseudomonas tomato race 1 (Ptr1), that imparts resistance to bacterial speck disease. The team identified the gene through a serendipitous discovery of two plants with the gene that survived a devastating outbreak of the disease.
Researchers have developed a novel gene therapy approach that activates genes with similar functions to compensate for the primary defect in retinitis pigmentosa. This method has shown promise in slowing down retinal degeneration and improving retinal function without side effects.
Researchers at TUM have found that DNA binding is essential for the anti-inflammatory effect of steroids like cortisone. This discovery refutes the common theory that steroids' effects are based on protein-to-protein interaction, and opens up new avenues for developing cortisone alternatives with fewer side effects.
Older caregivers of newly diagnosed dementia patients experience a 30% increase in depressive symptoms, which persists over two years. This is significantly higher than those without a partner diagnosis, with an additional 27-33% increase depending on the length of caregiving time.
Researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital have successfully treated hepatitis C-infected kidneys in transplant patients using glecaprevir and pibrentasvir. The study shows that early antiviral intervention can cure the virus without serious side effects, paving the way for a significant increase in organ availability.
Research shows handgrip strength can predict type 2 diabetes risk by 50% per unit increase, with implications for prevention strategies. The finding is marked in women and could be used to identify individuals at high risk.
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.