Researchers found raised levels of protective B cells and helper T-cells in asymptomatic people, while those with serious symptoms lost these cells but gained inflammatory ones. The study could help explain lung inflammation and blood clotting symptoms and identify potential therapeutic targets.
SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 20, 2021
A new mathematical model developed by Chalmers University of Technology can predict how different bacteria interact and affect the intestinal microbiome. The model was tested on two clinical studies, one involving Swedish infants and another adults in Finland, showing high accuracy in predicting multiple variables.
SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2021
A study combining global maps of population and land use with biodiversity data reveals effective environmental stewardship by Indigenous and traditional peoples. Human transformation of terrestrial nature has been long-standing, contradicting the assumption that development is inherently destructive.
SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers developed a new x-ray optics-on-a-chip device that can modulate X-rays at speeds up to 100 times faster than conventional devices. The tiny device, weighing just 3 micrograms, has the potential to capture fast chemical, material and biological processes.
A new study by Rebecca Salvage and David Eaton found that hundreds of small earthquakes occurred in the Kiskatinaw area after oil and gas recovery shut down. The researchers suggest aseismic slip driven by trapped fluid from previous hydraulic fracture injections may be causing these latent earthquakes.
The Experimental Biology 2021 meeting will feature groundbreaking research on COVID-19, including potential treatments and long-haul symptoms. Researchers will also present findings on cancer, heart disease, and other life sciences topics.
The COVID-19 crisis has emphasized the need to adapt to global environmental changes, with researchers highlighting the importance of shifting societal priorities from economic growth to human well-being and environmental health. A sustainable transition requires a cohesive and inclusive society where people adhere to collective action...
SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalSustainability Science·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers at Mainz University discovered how fetuin-B binds to meprin beta, a protein released from cell membranes controlling physiological functions. The binding prevents excessive protein release, potentially treating Alzheimer's and cancer by inhibiting the enzyme.
SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2021
A large randomized Phase 3 clinical trial will test existing prescription and over-the-counter medications for treating mild-to-moderate COVID-19 symptoms. The ACTIV-6 trial aims to provide evidence-based treatment options for adult patients with mild-to-moderate symptoms, reducing the need for hospitalization.
SourceNIH/National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)·DateApr 20, 2021
Biologists have discovered a new type of placental structure in animals, specifically in the group Cyclostomata from the phylum Bryozoa. This unique structure, called coenocytes, is formed through nuclear multiplication and cytoplasmic growth, unlike traditional cell fusion in animals.
SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalBMC Ecology and Evolution·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers simulated the COVID-19 epidemic's trajectory and found that even modest increases in evictions could lead to thousands of excess cases in Philadelphia, highlighting the need for renter protection policies to control the spread of SARS-CoV-2.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2021
A Dartmouth startup has received funding to create a remote-sensing resistance band exercise system that can monitor patient progress and guide healthcare providers in at-home rehabilitation programs. The device aims to bridge the gap between clinicians and patients, increasing compliance rates and reducing unnecessary interventions.
SourceThayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth·DateApr 20, 2021
A team of scientists has identified key odorants responsible for musty and moldy-smoky cocoa flavors using a molecular sensory science concept. The research provides an objective method to assess fermented cocoa's sensory quality based on odorant concentrations, benefiting the food industry with reliable identification of off-flavors.
SourceLeibniz-Institut für Lebensmittel-Systembiologie an der TU München·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateApr 20, 2021
A recent study suggests that preserving physical and mental health helps older adults experiencing cognitive impairment stave off declines in cognitive engagement. The researchers found that declines in physical and mental health were associated with more pronounced cognitive disengagement, particularly among participants with advanced...
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEntropy·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers from University of Illinois at Chicago and Iowa State University cracked a forensic puzzle by exploring the fluid physics involved in a 2009 murder case. They found that backward blood spatter droplets can be entrained within a turbulent vortex ring of muzzle gases, potentially leaving shooter clothing bloodstain-free.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers from TU Wien and international partners discovered MXene's exceptional properties as an ultra-durable dry lubricant, reducing friction to one sixth and withstanding 100,000 movement cycles without issues. Its heat resistance and independence from atmosphere and temperature make it suitable for various industrial applications.
SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers at the University of Helsinki found a link between a gene defect and severe epilepsy in Parson Russell Terrier puppies. The PITRM1 gene mutation causes mitochondrial dysfunction, leading to neurodegeneration and seizures.
SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalHuman Genetics·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers found that eye contact causes a distortion in temporal perception, making time seem shorter than it really is. In contrast, deviated gazes do not impact time perception.
SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCognition·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers at Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience used machine learning to develop Gold Digger software that can accurately identify gold particles bound to specific proteins of interest. The software uses a deep learning approach to distinguish gold particles from shadow artifacts with near-human level accuracy.
SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers found that probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus strain LA1 generates a rapid and sustained enhancement of the intestinal barrier, effectively treating intestinal inflammation. The study also showed that LA1 can prevent colonic inflammation formation and promote healing in mice with induced colitis.
SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers discovered that aerosolized droplets generated by flushing a toilet and urinal in public restrooms pose a significant risk of transmitting COVID-19. The study found that these small droplets can remain suspended for hours, contaminating the air and increasing the risk of infection.
SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers developed a method to enhance fiber optic receivers using quantum physics properties, increasing network performance while reducing error bit rate and energy consumption. The new system decodes up to four bits per pulse, improving detection accuracy and efficiency.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAVS Quantum Science·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers suggest that the 1700 Cascadia earthquake could be part of a longer-lived sequence of earthquakes, potentially spanning many decades. This hypothesis has significant implications for how earthquake hazard maps are created for the region, and may help explain why there is little geologic evidence of the event in some areas.
A new study published in Frontiers in Immunology suggests that the gut's immune response to COVID-19 infection may not provide long-lasting systemic immunity from the virus. The researchers found relatively few immune cells with a specific marker in the blood of patients with COVID-19, indicating limited protection for other organs.
SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·DateApr 20, 2021
A new study suggests that lessons learned from past emergencies, such as 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina, can inform improvements to the government's response to pandemics. By adopting a more centralized approach to procurement and communication, governments can achieve goals faster and more effectively.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Emergency Management·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers have developed a specialized technique to capture unique protein structures associated with neuropathy disorders, such as Charcot Marie Tooth and Dejerine-Sottas syndrome. The technique, ion mobility-mass spectrometry (IM-MS), reveals that an unstable mutant version of the PMP22 protein forms a stable complex called a dimer.
SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers developed a system to deliver nucleotide-based drugs more effectively into primary tumor tissue and bone metastases, improving their clinical efficacy. The study found that iRGD-liposomes significantly enhanced the ability of antisense oligonucleotides to inhibit prostate cancer growth and prolong tumor suppression.
SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateApr 20, 2021
Scientists have discovered a novel approach to separate and capture nitrous oxide, a harmful greenhouse gas, using hydroquinone clathrate. The study reveals that the organic crystal can trap N2O at high concentrations, making it a promising option for reducing emissions and saving energy.
SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers investigated the association of clinician burnout with clinician type, sex, work culture and use of electronic health records. The study found that burnout is more prevalent among certain types of clinicians and in work cultures with heavy reliance on technology.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers found that certain gut microbes, specifically Asaia bogorensis, increase the risk of malaria parasite infection in mosquitoes by raising gut pH levels. Feeding mosquitoes a sugar diet promotes the proliferation of this bacterial species, which enhances parasite infection.
A new study at Tel Aviv University found that the British variant (B.1.1.7) of Covid-19 is 45% more contagious than the original virus, with rapid spread and significant impact on vulnerable populations. Constant monitoring of at-risk populations and vaccination can prevent illness and mortality.
SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateApr 20, 2021
A recent study has found that South-Eastern Bantu-speaking groups are genetically diverse, with distinct languages and histories, and cannot be treated as a single entity in disease research. This discovery may lead to more accurate genetic analysis and better understanding of complex diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 20, 2021
A Texas A&M study found that racial and ethnic diversity in schools can decrease mental health risk for some Latinx students, while increasing symptoms among non-Latinx Black and Latinx students. The research used data from 389 sixth-graders across 14 urban Texas public schools.
SourceTexas A&M University·JournalEthnicity & Disease·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers at Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown discover distinct compartments within the VMH that control female receptivity and rejection. Progesterone receptors exhibit significant changes across reproductive cycle, suggesting a complex neural basis for female socio-sexual behavior.
SourceChampalimaud Centre for the Unknown·JournaleNeuro·DateApr 20, 2021
A study of renal transplant biopsies found that blood pressure thresholds above 180/95/116 mmHg don't increase complication risk, but combined high pressures do
A recent study by URI researchers shows that the Gulf Stream's position relative to the Grand Banks of Newfoundland can predict rapid warming of the Northwest Atlantic Shelf. The team used satellite data to observe the mechanism behind these changes, which block the southwestward transport of cold water and lead to marine heat waves.
SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine used information theory to identify a likely key genetic culprit in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most common form of childhood leukemia. By analyzing DNA methylation patterns, they discovered a gene called UHRF1 that drives the development of cancer.
SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateApr 20, 2021
A new mouse model study by USF Health researchers reveals that chaperone protein imbalance can initiate toxic tau accumulation in the aging brain, a key step in Alzheimer's disease development. The study aims to identify therapeutic targets by restoring chaperone protein balance.
SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·DateApr 20, 2021
A new study from Boston Medical Center reveals a significant association between back pain and elevated mortality risk in women. Mild back pain is unlikely to impact life expectancy, but more severe cases are linked to an increased risk of mortality.
SourceBoston Medical Center·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateApr 20, 2021
A new CAMH survey found that nearly half of regular drug users reported increased substance use during the COVID-19 pandemic, with many citing difficulty accessing safe supply programs. The study highlights the need for improved supports and services to mitigate risks associated with substance use.
SourceCentre for Addiction and Mental Health·JournalInternational Journal of Drug Policy·DateApr 20, 2021
The Tomographer algorithm transforms gene-sequencing data into spatially resolved images, mapping gene expression patterns across tissues. By analyzing tissue strips and mRNA measurements, the algorithm reconstructs spatial gene-expression patterns in tissues like the brain of the Australian Bearded Dragon.
SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 20, 2021
Scientists at IRB Barcelona have found that Lafora bodies accumulating in glial cells, not just neurons, are responsible for the disease's progressive degeneration. This discovery could lead to new treatments and insights into other neurodegenerative diseases.
SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalBrain·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers studying the symbiotic bacteria of beewolves found signs of genome erosion and metabolic streamlining for antibiotic production. The bacteria's genome is being reduced as it focuses on its defensive symbiosis with the host insects, suggesting an adaptation to their mutual benefit.
SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021
New research reveals Andean forests have high potential to store carbon under climate change. The study, which analyzed data from 119 forest-monitoring plots across the Andes Mountains, found that Andean forests are acting as aboveground carbon sinks.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 19, 2021
A new study reveals that most areas depicted as 'untouched' were actually inhabited and used by human societies for thousands of years, sustaining native biodiversity. The research supports empowering Indigenous peoples and local communities to promote long-term environmental stewardship and conservation.
SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021
The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation has approved a $1.2 million grant to extend the AUH interdisciplinary seminar series at Cornell University for three years, focusing on social justice and equity in the built environment. The new funding will support two projects: Design Justice Workshop and Urban Justice series.
Research suggests that tolerance, cooperation, and reduced aggression in domesticated birds are linked to increased language complexity in humans. The study analyzed genomic, neurobiological differences between domesticated Bengalese finch and its wild relative, finding altered stress hormone balance and brain connectivity patterns.
SourceUniversity of Barcelona·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021
A new study by the University of California San Diego found that Airbnb hosts in college towns increase their listing prices during home football games against rival teams, resulting in a 78% reduction in rental income. This phenomenon is attributed to strong emotions involved in college football rivalries and financial constraints.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalReal Estate Economics·DateApr 19, 2021
Researchers developed a miniature light-sheet generator that can be implanted into a living animal's brain, enabling high-speed and high-contrast imaging of brain activity. The technology uses nanophotonic technology to create ultrathin silicon-based photonic neural probes that emit multiple addressable thin sheets of light.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalNeurophotonics·DateApr 19, 2021
A systematic review found that traumatic brain injuries (TBI) significantly increase the risk of stroke, with a 86% increased risk compared to non-TBI patients. Stroke risk remains high for up to five years after injury.
SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalInternational Journal of Stroke·DateApr 19, 2021
Researchers have developed a novel method to detect and manipulate the terahertz optoacoustic signal of water, enabling sensitive detection of solutes like ions with an order of magnitude greater sensitivity than traditional spectroscopy. This breakthrough allows for nondestructive analysis of aqueous solutions and tissues, opening up ...
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateApr 19, 2021
Researchers found that the evolutionary distance between a snake's prey species determines venom complexity, not just diet variety. The study uses next-generation sequencing to generate the largest dataset of viperid snakes' proteomes and venom-gland transcriptomes.
SourceClemson University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021
A recent study found that online farmers' markets can play a crucial role in maintaining community connections and supporting sustainable food systems. The Yellowknife Farmers Market's transition to an online market during the pandemic showcased its ability to adapt while prioritizing local businesses and social connections.
SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalNutrition Journal·DateApr 19, 2021
A new guideline from the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care recommends routine screening for chlamydia and gonorrhea in people under 30. The infections are treatable with antibiotics but can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, pain, and infertility if left untreated.
SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 19, 2021
A new study found that gender-affirming hormone therapy was associated with changes in blood pressure among transgender men and women. Researchers monitored 470 patients who began hormone therapy between 2007 and 2015, and found that some experienced different blood pressure effects compared to their peers.
SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalHYPERTENSION·DateApr 19, 2021
Researchers have developed a new separation method using chemically modified cotton wool to separate single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) into metallic and semiconducting specimens. The method achieves high efficiency and scalability, making it suitable for industrial applications.
SourceKazan Federal University·JournalCarbon·DateApr 19, 2021
A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics examined the association between paternal drinking before pregnancy and the risk of birth defects in Chinese children. The research found a significant correlation, suggesting that fathers' consumption of alcohol prior to conception may pose a potential threat to fetal development.
A new algorithm developed by Joshua Welch and his team enables researchers to analyze large datasets using standard computer memory, greatly speeding up single-cell sequencing research. The technique allows for real-time analysis of millions of cells without reprocessing older data.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 19, 2021
A new study classifies different types of wildlife traffickers and sellers in Brazzaville and Pointe Noire, Republic of Congo. The findings help conservation and law enforcement authorities prioritize efforts on professional criminals and identify patterns among repeat offenders.
SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalGlobal Ecology and Conservation·DateApr 19, 2021
Scientists have developed a new COVID-19 vaccine that targets the spike protein of the virus, offering broad protection against existing and future strains. The vaccine's innovative approach uses a platform that can produce vaccines at very low cost, making it ideal for global vaccination efforts.
SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021