A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals how cognitive control and sensory information relate to cortical machinery. Researchers found that signal propagation between cortical areas V1 and V4 is modulated by attention, challenging previous theories about parallel processing flows.
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara found that coral predators have a significant impact on young coral growth and survival, even when protected by fish. The study suggests that density has little effect on predation, as corals are vulnerable to predators regardless of group size or protection.
A study examining deceased US eagles found that 82 percent had detectable levels of rat poison in their systems. The presence of these toxins was linked to mortality rates, suggesting a potential public health concern for bird populations.
A new study by the University of Washington found that hospital pandemic policies harmed families and nurses, leading to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and mistrust. The policies also exacerbated existing racial biases in care, particularly for Black women and birthing people.
A recent study has quantified the association of race/ethnicity, sex, income, and state-specific lockdown measures with six well-being dimensions in the United States. The research highlights disparities in well-being among different groups, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to address these inequalities.
Researchers discovered fungi present in both healthy and diseased lungs, with no difference in composition between individuals with COPD using or not using inhaled steroids. The unique lung environment is dominated by the fungus Candida, which can cause disease when outcompeted.
Scientists quantify space-time nonseparability of electromagnetic pulses using quantum state tomography and calculate fidelity, concurrence, and entanglement. They propose novel concepts for measuring space-time entanglement in structured light, opening new avenues for ultrahigh-capacity communication and high-security encryption.
A new paper by Kyoto University researchers highlights the ethical implications of brain organoid research, which could lead to breakthroughs in treating diseases like dementia or schizophrenia. However, transplanting brain organoids raises concerns about consciousness, morality, and potential risks to patients.
The NIH is conducting a clinical trial to assess the risk of systemic allergic reactions to the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines in people with mast cell disorders or severe allergies. The study aims to identify potential genetic patterns that may predict who is at most risk for these reactions.
A recent study from the University of Bath found significant underrepresentation of women in editorial boards of marketing academic journals, with men holding 68% of roles. The research also revealed that awards and recognition favor men, perpetuating inequality for female academics.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University developed a novel transdermal mixture of terbinafine and clotrimazole to combat Candida auris, a highly resistant fungus. The study found that this formulation can effectively reduce the presence of C. auris on skin and prevent its spread.
Researchers compared images of COVID-19 vaccine-induced protein spikes to those of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and found a high degree of similarity, suggesting the vaccine's ability to trigger an immune response.
A study found that young adults were unaware of existing AI-powered symptom checkers, which could help reduce the number of in-person clinic visits during the pandemic. The tools aim to provide reassurance for non-COVID symptoms and improve user experience through personalization.
A West Virginia University biologist is developing student-led research projects to study genomics and bioinformatics using parasitic orchids. The project aims to close the STEM skills and interest gap in rural West Virginia high schools and make orchids more sustainable.
Researchers found that adaptive cognitive training program Cogmed Working Memory Training improved visual working memory, verbal short-term memory, and math fluency in children with SCD. Patients who completed at least 10 training sessions showed the most significant benefits.
Researchers from Nagoya Institute of Technology in Japan propose a new protocol to evaluate postural balance control for elderly patients with low back pain. They found that local vibratory stimulation can improve proprioceptive function and alleviate symptoms.
Engineers successfully folded NASA's James Webb Space Telescope sunshield, a five-layer diamond-shaped structure to fit within its launch vehicle. The compact form will remain through launch and the first few days in space to protect optics from heat interference.
A recent Johns Hopkins Medicine study compared inpatient and outpatient surgical volumes during the pandemic and found significant declines, especially in regions hardest hit. Outpatient volumes recovered quickly, while inpatient volumes improved to near-pre-pandemic levels by September 2020.
A new clinical trial has shown that the SlowMo therapy app is an effective means of treating paranoid thoughts in people experiencing psychosis. The app, which uses a personalized approach to help individuals feel safer in daily life, has been found to reduce paranoia and improve quality of life.
Texas A&M researchers have developed a reliability framework to improve the distribution system, reducing interruptions by 50% and customer average interruption duration by 45%. The framework can also test the impact of installing rooftop solar and energy storage on the system.
Researchers found two new species, Fossiomanus sinensis and Jueconodon cheni, with characteristics of scratch diggers in the Jehol Biota ecosystem. The animals independently evolved traits to support their digging lifestyle, including shorter limbs and strong forelimbs.
Researchers found that tumour samples from over 2,600 patients with different types of cancer contain a high prevalence of genetic diversity within individual tumours. This variation is a challenge for doctors as treatment may not be effective against another subclone, and certain subclones can initiate tumour spread or drug resistance.
Researchers sequenced the genomes of the oldest Europeans, finding they contributed genes to present-day East Asians and had extensive Neandertal DNA. This suggests frequent mixing with Neandertals when first modern humans arrived in Europe.
A team of Penn State Berks-led researchers created a multidimensional model to measure the effectiveness of entrepreneurship education. The model addresses students' intentions to start a business and their perceptions of barriers they might encounter, helping to increase skills and reduce barriers.
A recent study by Vanderbilt researchers reveals that non-cancer cells in a tumor, primarily immune cells called macrophages, have the highest glucose uptake, upending traditional models of cancer metabolism. This finding could lead to new therapies and imaging strategies.
Researchers found that T cells in the small intestine have evolved a molecular sensing mechanism to protect themselves from toxic bile acids. This mechanism can be manipulated with small drug-like molecules, reducing inflammation and improving symptoms.
A new report confirms polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a cause of anaphylaxis following COVID-19 vaccination. The authors note that PEG allergy is rare and that COVID-19 vaccines remain safe despite the risk.
A new study links cerebral small vessel disease (SVD) to intracerebral hemorrhages under anticoagulation, suggesting SVD as a precondition. The study suggests blood thinning alone can no longer be considered a cause of intracerebral hemorrhages.
A study of nine uterine transplants from living donors has provided an initial estimate of costs, with total average cost per transplant reported as EUR 74,564. Sick leave accounted for the largest portion of these costs.
Researchers used weather radar to create a forecasting system for nocturnal bird migration in the US, finding that just 10 nights of action can reduce risk by 50% for avian migrants passing over an area. This data enables more 'mindful' approaches to protect migrating birds from threats like light pollution and collisions with structures.
A new study from Aarhus University shows that eight weeks of training in compassion can significantly improve the well-being of relatives. The training helps them deal with difficult emotions and life events, reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.
A comprehensive analysis of 24 studies found limited evidence on risk factors for steroid-induced psychological reactions in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Younger patients were at risk for behavioral problems, while older patients were more susceptible to sleep issues.
A new study reveals that sleep disorders are a common symptom of multiple system atrophy, with greater severity correlating to more neuronal damage. The research found specific associations between sleep-related symptoms and MSA severity, including the parkinsonism subtype.
Researchers found that manual workers are twice as likely to develop ALS, with close to two-thirds of patients reporting a blue-collar job. The study also discovered that jobs involving sustained physical exertion, such as construction and carpentry, were associated with a higher risk of bulbar-onset ALS.
A new test has been developed to evaluate expressive language skills in individuals with Down syndrome, offering a more effective approach than current methods. The test was found to be reliable and consistent across different versions, making it suitable for most individuals between the ages of 6 and 23.
Astronomers have identified six chemicals in the atmosphere of HD 209458b, a planet that formed far from its star before migrating to its current location. The discovery provides insights into planetary formation and could be used to detect signs of potentially habitable planets.
Researchers found that a combination of ruxolitinib and remdesivir can normalize the production of complement proteins in lung epithelial cells infected with SARS-CoV-2. This highlights a promising strategy to treat damaging inflammation during severe COVID-19.
Researchers designed a nanodendrite Pt-Cu alloy electrocatalyst with high-index surfaces and graded composition, achieving excellent mass and area activities for oxygen reduction reaction. The catalyst's unique morphology and composition provide a high specific surface area to improve Pt utilization and enhance ORR activity.
Two new species of 120-million-year-old, burrowing mammals are discovered in northeastern China with distinct characteristics. They share specialized digging features and an elongated vertebral column, shedding light on the evolution of fossorial life.
Researchers have found that Urolithin A can delay the progression of Duchenne Muscle Dystrophy in mice by restoring mitochondrial activity and increasing mitophagy. This natural compound has shown promise in improving muscle health and performance, with significant increases in grip strength and running performance.
Researchers used mirror SELFI to detect nanoparticles' size and location with nanometre resolution, enabling tracking of disease-causing viruses. This breakthrough could lead to new sensing methods for biomedical applications.
Researchers project the most common and deadly cancers in the US by 2040, with breast cancer expected to remain top type. The study also highlights an increasing trend of cancers affecting younger populations, such as thyroid and testicular cancers.
Scientists have developed novel multi-stimuli-responsive drug delivery systems using hydrogels that can release drugs in response to temperature, pH, and reducing conditions. The hydrogels can control the amount of drug loaded onto them, ensuring effective delivery to target tumor sites.
The project aims to refine infrastructure, drive sustainability, and strengthen the inclusion of underrepresented voices in humanities scholarship. The expanded collaboration will enable new possibilities for historical research, genealogical discoveries, and a deeper understanding of the past.
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed people's interactions with nature in both positive and negative ways, providing valuable knowledge about these interactions. The article highlights the potential long-term consequences of this shift and recommends further research to establish actions that can positively impact humans and nature.
Researchers uncover how tailocins, produced by bacteria under stress, target specific strains with lethal precision. The nanomachines have potential applications in studying microbial interactions and developing new antibiotics.
Researchers used a mouse model to identify the role of autoreactive T cells against transcriptional intermediary factor 1γ (TIF1γ) in dermatomyositis. The study found that autoreactive CD8+ T cells contribute to the pathogenesis of the disease, while autoantibodies are non-pathogenic clinical markers.
A USC study found Hispanic immigrants aged 20-54 are 11 times more likely to die from COVID-19 compared to U.S.-born non-Hispanic individuals. Younger populations, particularly those of Asian/Pacific Islander and Black descent, also face higher mortality rates.
A new theoretical calculation of the muon magnetic moment has reduced the discrepancy with experimental measurements, but sparks debate on the standard model's fate. The calculation, involving CNRS physicists, used precise measurements made with electron-positron colliders and European supercomputers.
Researchers have identified the oldest reconstructed modern human genome, dating back around 2,000 years, from a fossil skull in Czechia. The study suggests that early modern humans did not successfully adapt to Europe, with a possible explanation being the Campanian Ignimbrite volcanic eruption.
A survey-based study of 105 BIPOC graduate-level counseling students found that discrimination negatively affects overall wellbeing and leads to burnout. The study emphasizes the need for proactive inclusion and diversity in counseling programs to address these barriers.
SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Multicultural Counseling and Development·DateApr 7, 2021
A new rapid 'leaf-disk assay' uses chlorophyll fluorescence emissions to determine herbicide resistance. The technique quickly identifies resistant populations, enabling growers to take proactive steps against spreading resistant weeds.
Research in 4 low- and middle-income countries reveals socio-economic background is a persistent barrier to educational attainment. Students from poor backgrounds who excel early on often fall behind later, despite similar prior achievements.
Researchers confirmed that doubling CO2 levels roughly doubles the risk of transmission. The model considers infection numbers in the local community but not air flow through rooms. Low CO2 levels can minimize COVID-19 risk, regardless of space activity.
A study published in Alzheimer's & Dementia found that progressive memory loss and issues with executive function are more useful for predicting CTE pathology than mood and behavior symptoms. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new therapies and improved patient care.
The Mfd protein's dual role in repairing bacterial DNA and promoting mutations has been discovered, offering new avenues for fighting antibiotic resistance. This phenomenon could also lead to a better understanding of cancer cell resistance to chemotherapy.
SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 7, 2021
A study by Toyohashi University of Technology found that Japanese speakers often confuse the pronunciations of /hi/ and /si/ due to palatalized tongue articulation. Real-time MRI and supercomputer simulations revealed that acoustic contrast between the sounds can be produced by differences in tongue shape in the transverse direction.
A new method called ACME has revolutionized single-cell transcriptomic technologies by enabling accurate cell fixation and dissociation without causing cell stress. This allows scientists to study thousands of individual cells from living organisms, one-by-one, and sequence each cell's genetic material.
The WHOI and NOAA have released a report on the socio-economic effects of harmful algal blooms in the US, highlighting gaps in current estimates and research. The report recommends improving methods for assessing impacts and fostering greater collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and communities affected by HABs.
A new diagnostic test, called the D4-assay, has been developed to detect Ebola virus infection earlier than the current industry standard PCR test. The test is highly sensitive and can detect the virus a full day earlier than PCR, making it a promising tool in addressing ongoing outbreaks.