Researchers found that homemade face masks made from cotton towel fabric are most effective in blocking aerosolized viruses. The study suggests that a three-layered mask is recommended for maximum efficacy, and washing has a negligible influence on mask effectiveness.
A small trial found that the low-dose Moderna vaccine generated long-lived T cell immunity comparable to natural infection. The presence of cross-reactive T cells enhanced immune response in younger and older patients alike.
Researchers developed a mathematical model to predict the angle of repose of sand hills, which is influenced by particle size and gravity. The model was validated using simulations and has potential applications in space exploration, additive manufacturing, and planetary science.
A new indigo dyeing technology reduces water usage by up to 90% and eliminates toxic chemicals, securing over 90% color retention with only one coat. The process also streamlines the industry, saving time and energy for workers.
Researchers have developed a new approach to generating terahertz radiation, which can be directly generated on an electronic chip. This breakthrough enables the use of terahertz radiation in various applications, including materials science and communications technology.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge have created a real-time approach to predict drone flight paths and intentions, enabling safer use of drones. The solution uses statistical techniques and radar data to identify potential threats before they enter restricted airspace.
Researchers created indenene, a topological quantum material with a triangular honeycomb structure, which exhibits robust properties and doesn't require ultra-low temperatures to manifest its characteristics. This design improvement enables the growth of perfect films suitable for device nanofabrication.
Researchers analyzed over 2000 SARS-CoV-2 protein structures to identify viral proteins that 'mimic' and 'hijack' human proteins. The study found three coronavirus proteins that 'mimicked' human proteins, allowing the virus to evade the immune system and contribute to variation in COVID-19 outcomes.
Researchers developed a treatment using cowpea mosaic virus nanoparticles that target lung tumors, slowing tumor growth and preventing cancer spread. The treatment showed efficacy against aggressive cancer cell lines and may offer protection to patients at high risk of metastatic disease.
A study by UCSF researchers found that emergency department visits and hospitalizations made by patients with addictions increased by 30% and 57%, respectively, between 2014-2018. The authors highlight the urgent need for hospitals to develop systems of hospital-based interventions to provide addiction treatment.
A new model developed by Ben-Gurion University scientists can help policymakers simulate their choices and find the optimal strategy for combining vaccines and social distancing. The model suggests that vaccinating the elderly and imposing social distancing on adults is generally more effective than other approaches.
Seabirds are dying from starvation after being exposed to cyclones, which disrupt their ability to feed. The study found that birds can't fly in high winds and dive into stormy seas, leaving them without food sources.
A team of Texas A&M University researchers propose capturing CO2 and water from passenger vehicle exhaust for use in urban greenhouses. Preliminary simulations indicate that the system could reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide a sustainable source of reclaimed resources for food production.
Dr. Cynthia Smith, an associate professor at George Mason University, will receive $23,119 in funding to manage an invasive plant removal project. The project aims to inform public lands and wetland managers on best practices for invasive species removal.
A study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that healthcare workers with high emotional support or resilience were protected against stress related to COVID-19. The study used wearable devices to measure heart rate variability and found a unique nervous system profile in these individuals.
Kai Zeng and collaborators propose novel techniques to enhance security of wireless-powered backscatter communication (WPBC) for IoT applications. They aim to achieve efficient key agreement, anti-jamming communication, and robust device authentication.
Researchers successfully detected local mammals and birds by collecting 18 litres of water from a two-kilometre stretch along the river Mulde. The team identified 50% of fish species, 22% of mammal species, and 7.4% of breeding bird species in the region.
Five innovative research projects tackle fundamental questions of environmental and earth science, including the origins of Earth and life on Mars. The studies aim to advance our understanding and lead to important scientific breakthroughs.
The energy balance model fails to explain the biological causes of weight gain, whereas the carbohydrate-insulin model identifies excessive consumption of rapidly digestible carbohydrates as a key contributor to obesity. This perspective argues for a shift in focus from calorie restriction to dietary pattern change.
David Lattanzi is developing a transferable curricular framework for data science education that can be integrated with existing engineering curricula. The project aims to provide evidence-based best practices for incorporating data science into STEM programs, resulting in a globally competitive STEM workforce.
A nationwide study suggests that a family's socio-economic status can shape the health of young children by influencing the diversity of their gut microbiome. The study found that parents with higher education levels had children with a higher abundance of certain beneficial microbes, which could have long-term implications for health.
A new DNA-based test using whole genome sequencing can identify tumour-specific markers to measure cancer levels in children's bodies. This technology has the potential to detect minimal residual disease and change treatment outcomes.
A recent survey of people affected by hurricanes found that the public is willing to pay more than $500 million a year for improved hurricane forecasts. The study also found that wind speed forecast is the most valuable improvement, with an average willingness to pay of $28.89 per household per year.
Researchers at DTU have developed a new method for designing nanomaterials with unprecedented precision, allowing for the creation of compact and electrically tunable metalenses. This breakthrough enables the development of high-speed communication and biotechnology applications.
Scientists at the University of Birmingham have discovered a new pathway involving tetraspanin protein TSPAN6 that makes anti-EGFR drugs less effective in bowel cancer patients. The research findings could lead to better identification of patients who can benefit from these treatments.
A two-dose Ebola vaccine regimen has been found to be safe, well-tolerated, and produce a strong immune response in people over 1 year old. The study also supports the use of this regimen for Ebola virus disease prevention in children and adults.
Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago found a potential direct connection between neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), glaucoma, and herpesvirus. The study suggests OPTN protein restricts HSV-1 virus spread in cells.
A new study found that bluefin tuna accumulation rates are highest in the Mediterranean and decrease in the north Pacific Ocean, Indian Ocean, and north Atlantic Ocean. The researchers linked methylmercury accumulation to regional seawater and zooplankton concentrations, revealing global patterns of mercury pollution.
Researchers at OIST and Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology have developed a genetic resource for the kuruma shrimp, a species prone to white spot disease. The genome sequence has identified genes related to disease resistance, which could be used to establish a disease-resistant line of shrimp.
GIST scientists utilized latest advances in single molecule detection to observe the enzymatic activity of gene repair. The study revealed that ExoIII has an affinity for damaged DNA sites, creating a gap that Pol I fills. Understanding this mechanism may lead to technologies for targeted gene repair and drug development.
A new study has discovered the oldest known cavities ever found in a mammal, likely resulting from a diet rich in fruit. The cavities were identified in fossilized teeth of Microsyops latidens, a mammal that lived during the early Eocene, and suggest a shift in their diet over time.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have found a significant increase in chronic wasting disease among Kansas counties, with seven previously undetected cases identified. The project aims to track the spread of the disease and raise awareness among hunters, who are encouraged to test their harvested deer for the disease.
Researchers successfully mimic nano spatial compartments to create artificial mitochondria, capable of supplying ATP or other useful molecules to cells in damaged or diseased tissues. The artificial organelles are generated from Exosome fusion and can function as energy reserves in the damaged tissues.
The study found that policies promoting comprehensive nitrogen mitigation options could alleviate hunger by 590 million people by 2050. Increasing nitrogen use efficiency in agronomic practices is the most effective strategy to reduce undernourishment while respecting regional nitrogen boundaries.
A new study has identified RNF5 as a key player in acute myeloid leukemia, regulating gene expression through its interaction with protein RBBP4. Inhibiting RNF5 may improve treatment outcomes for AML patients by increasing sensitivity to existing targeted therapies.
Eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, play a crucial role in destroying malignant tumors by recruiting T-cells and releasing destructive proteins. The study, published in Cancer Research, reveals that eosinophils combat cancer effectively but require the help of T-cells to do so.
Scientists have identified a new genus of extinct elephant fish, Moskovirhynchus robustus, from Jurassic-era deposits in Moscow. The study reveals unique dental features that set it apart from modern elephant chimaeroids.
A North Carolina State University study finds that textbooks portraying climate change as uncertain can influence students' certainty, even among those already knowledgeable. The researchers suggest improving students' knowledge and teaching critical evaluation skills can help combat misinformation.
A new study using Argo system ocean temperature data refines climate modeling predictions by identifying models most consistent with observations. The analysis shows that land and air temperatures only tell part of the story, with oceans storing 90% of the planet's heat.
Researchers found that coloured and 3D images of SARS-CoV-2 increase perceived infectivity, while beauty detracts from educational value. The study highlights the role of media in distributing visually appealing yet potentially misleading information about the pandemic.
A new study found that cognitive control plays a significant role in determining whether individuals cheat or not. Participants who tended towards honesty were more likely to cheat, while those with a moral inclination towards dishonesty were more likely to remain honest. This suggests that cognitive control can override moral impulses...
Scientists have discovered two new cerium superhydrides, CeH9 and CeH10, which exhibit superconductivity at lower pressures than previously known compounds. This breakthrough brings researchers closer to creating room-temperature superconductors with more manageable pressure conditions.
A new study proposes a practical way of measuring how different nations should reduce carbon emissions to maximize worldwide wellbeing. The utilitarian approach assigns different emission reduction goals to countries based on their wealth and ability to grow and maintain citizens' health.
Researchers investigated the effects of atmosphere, sea ice, and ocean on August 2018 polynya formation. Thinnest sea ice cover and southerly wind played a crucial role in its development.
A new study published in the journal Eating Behaviors found a strong association between vaping or e-cigarette use and an increased risk of developing an eating disorder among US college students. The study analyzed over 51,000 participants and highlighted the need for more research and clinical assessment to address this growing concern.
The study found that a specific type of glycosaminoglycan in the scaffold led to greater blood vessel development and immune cell activation. Researchers aim to further understand these interactions to develop biomaterials for bone repair.
Researchers at UNSW Sydney have found the specific protein responsible for keeping cells attached to collagen, a key finding for cancer research. The discovery could lead to new directions for cancer treatment by targeting the protein tropomyosin, which is involved in forming the anchor's chain.
A recent expert review published in The Lancet concludes that COVID-19 vaccine efficacy against severe disease is high, but booster doses for the general population are not necessary. Vaccination remains highly effective against severe disease, including variants like delta and alpha.
The Center for Research on Programmable Plant Systems (CROPPS) aims to integrate plant sciences, engineering, and computer science to improve crop efficiency and sustainability. Researchers will engineer plants that can detect environmental changes and respond to digital signals, leading to more efficient water and nutrient delivery.
Researchers used isotope mapping to track monarch butterfly migration routes and identify their natal origins. The study, led by a University of Ottawa student, revealed that monarchs from the eastern US likely originated in Texas, providing valuable insights into population decline.
Researchers found that using the 'no-touch' technique to remove leg veins during coronary artery bypass surgery resulted in fewer blocked grafts and a lower incidence of recurrent chest pain. However, the technique was associated with more wound complications, particularly in female patients with type 2 diabetes or hypertension.
Researchers at Kyoto University designed a synthetic molecular code, EnPGC-1, that activates mitochondrial biogenesis in T cells, increasing their numbers and longevity. The approach enhances anti-tumor immunity in mice and improves survival.
Researchers from North Carolina State University developed a software toolkit to test Apple device security, identifying a previously unknown vulnerability called iTimed. The team used this toolkit to reverse-engineer key components of Apple hardware and demonstrated the vulnerability's potential impact.
Researchers discovered that amyloid beta peptides, which form gummy plaques in Alzheimer's disease, go through several intermediate stages of frustration as they dock and lock to growing fibrils. This suggests that drugs might be developed to stabilize the fibril tips and block further aggregation by targeting the 'Achilles' heel' of f...
A nearly $2 million NSF grant will accelerate the hunt for low-frequency gravitational waves using high-precision timing observations of exotic stars called millisecond pulsars. WVU's Maura McLaughlin is principal investigator on the project, which aims to discover new types of gravitational waves and expand the IPTA's reach globally.
Researchers found that the majority of retailers selling tobacco also displayed e-cigarettes and smoking paraphernalia prominently, which could undermine the effectiveness of tobacco point-of-sale display bans. These displays were highly visible across all stores, with an average visibility score of 14.7 out of 17 for e-cigarettes.
A study found that microgravity significantly impacts P-glycoprotein expression and function in rats, with higher levels of P-gp expression in long-term microgravity exposure. The researchers identified 26 proteins interacting with P-gp, which regulated ATP hydrolysis-coupled transmembrane transport and other functions.
A new study suggests that lowering the age when older adults can enroll in Medicare might save them a significant amount of money. The study found that average out-of-pocket healthcare costs dropped by 27% for those turning 66, while nearly 9% of 64-year-olds were considered 'catastrophic' due to high health expenses.
A recent study investigated a COVID-19 outbreak among fully vaccinated residents and healthcare professionals in a French nursing home. The study highlights the importance of vaccination in preventing severe illness but also underscores the limitations of current vaccines.
A new study provides a comprehensive framework to evaluate the emissions of three major greenhouse gases from food production and consumption. The research found that animal-based foods emit 57% of global greenhouse gas emissions, while plant-based foods account for 29%, with CO2 being the most important emission factor.