The Penn Artificial Intelligence and Technology Collaboratory for Healthy Aging (PennAITech) aims to explore the use of artificial intelligence to improve in-home care for older adults and individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. The collaboratory will leverage expertise in AI, consumer informatics, and aging from various departments acro...
A study published in CMAJ found that people using cannabis during pregnancy and lactation do so to manage symptoms such as nausea and mental health problems. The motivations for use change when they become pregnant, with some stopping due to fear or stigma, while others continue to use it for symptom management.
A study of 685 Italian children found that certain factors, such as age and comorbidities, are associated with severe gastrointestinal symptoms. The research identified key risk factors for severe GI symptoms in this population, shedding light on the complex interactions between SARS-CoV-2 infection and the immune system.
Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum propose a new platform theory of consciousness, which links conscious states to complex cognitive operations. The model suggests that consciousness arises from the interaction of different neuronal networks and is essential for adaptive behavior in humans, animals, and artificial intelligence.
Researchers have identified a gene that helps the kidney resist damage, which has major implications for Indigenous people with high rates of kidney disease. The discovery reveals that a mutation in the VANGL1 gene can cause the development of kidney disease and allows the immune system to attack the kidney.
A study of 2,000 Canadian children found a strong association between childhood food insecurity and poorer mental health and social functioning at age 15. Researchers suggest that addressing food insecurity in childhood may have long-term benefits for adolescents' mental well-being.
A study published in Nature Neuroscience reveals that a deadly anthrax toxin can block multiple types of pain in mice by altering signaling in pain-sensing neurons. This approach offers a novel precision-targeted pain treatment strategy without the widespread systemic effects of current pain-relief drugs.
A new study from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia found that family members of children with life-threatening conditions are 50-70% more likely to experience mental and physical health issues. The study examined four types of life-threatening conditions and found mothers, fathers, sisters, and brothers to be at higher risk.
A new study found that multi-level interventions promoting staff training and early HPV vaccination starting at age 11 can sustain on-time vaccinations over several years. These findings suggest that targeted public health investments can improve vaccination rates, saving lives from HPV-related cancers.
The University of Texas at El Paso has received a $4 million grant from the National Science Foundation and Department of Homeland Security to support highly qualified computer science students. The program aims to enhance the regional and national cybersecurity workforce with an emphasis on Hispanic and female students.
Researchers found that Americans were less likely to respond to an email survey from a person believed to be Black than from a person believed to be white. The study, which analyzed responses from over 250,000 people, suggests that racial bias can influence everyday communication behaviors.
SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2021
Calculations at TU Wien show that Ramjet propulsion, which involves capturing protons and using them for a nuclear fusion reactor, cannot work as proposed. The analysis revealed huge dimensions required to achieve even minimal thrust, making it impossible for current technology to achieve.
A team of researchers developed a new graphene-based strain sensor that can detect and assess subtle and fast neuromuscular functions, enabling the monitoring of movement disorders such as Parkinson's and tremors. The sensors showed high sensitivity and consistency with traditional electromyography (EMG) techniques.
A recent study by Cornell University researchers found that asking in person for help yields the highest response rate of a yes, surpassing video calls and emails. To achieve this optimal outcome, it's recommended to ditch email, text, and opt for video or phone calls instead.
Water exhibits counterintuitive properties when confined to nanometer-size pores, opening avenues for decontamination and crystallization control. The study reveals water's uniqueness compared to other liquids under similar subnanometric confinement.
A new study proposes that life could neutralize acidic environment, creating habitable pockets in Venus' clouds. The researchers identified a chemical pathway by which life could produce ammonia, explaining observed anomalies and anomalies.
Researchers have created a rechargeable lithium-ion battery in an ultra-long fiber that can be woven into fabrics, enabling self-contained wearable electronic devices. The 140-meter long fiber battery demonstrates the potential for practical applications in various fields, including communications, sensing, and computational devices.
Researchers developed a model of drug resistance in melanoma, revealing mechanisms involving extrachromosomal DNA amplifications and intrachromosomal chromosomal rearrangements. The study found that different forms of DNA offer 'fitness' advantages to tumor cells under varying therapeutic conditions.
Researchers evaluated the quality of supporting evidence for FDA emergency use authorizations of COVID-19-related diagnostic tests, medical devices, and treatments. The study found that some authorizations lacked adequate evidence to support their approval.
A new aptasensor has been designed to detect the SARS-CoV-2 virus in saliva samples, offering higher sensitivity than antigen-based sensors. The sensor can detect concentrations as low as 0.5 nanomolars and works quickly and cheaply.
Researchers develop system to image millions of brain cell connections in real-time, revealing key locations for learning and memory encoding. The new tool allows scientists to study synapse activity on a massive scale, with potential applications in understanding diseases such as Alzheimer's and autism.
A review suggests that doctors should prescribe fewer antidepressants and for shorter periods due to the potential severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms. The use of antidepressants is also associated with a range of side effects, but clinical trial data often don't assess outcomes that matter most to patients.
Researchers at Nagoya University and Zeon Corporation have developed a new thermoplastic rubber material, i-SIS, with an extremely high tensile toughness of 480 MJ/m³. The material's impact resistance surpasses that of glass-fiber-reinforced plastic (GFRP), making it suitable for use in automotive and other industries.
Alternative data can improve market performance by encouraging firms to bring in more skilled people to extract unique insights. As funds acquire these skills, they can process more alternative data at a lower cost, leading to stronger performance for both the fund and the market.
Researchers found tumor risk varies among patients with Beckwith-Wiedmann spectrum, differing from classic symptoms. Traditional blood tests may not capture all cases, emphasizing the need for more accurate diagnosis and monitoring.
Researchers at Bigelow Laboratory found that some coccolithophore species can use organic compounds as carbon sources, allowing them to thrive in dark conditions. This discovery has significant implications for understanding global ocean processes and the role of algae in the carbon cycle.
Researchers have identified IRE1 and XBP1 proteins as crucial for skeletal muscle regeneration after injury and in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. The study's findings pave the way for drug development to treat genetic and acquired muscle disorders.
A massive fossil of the giant millipede Arthropleura has been discovered in Northumberland, England, revealing it was up to 2.7 meters long and weighed 50 kilograms. The find sheds new light on the animal's habitat and evolution, suggesting it preferred open woodland habitats near the coast.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that fetal MRI can detect at least one other abnormality in almost 57% of fetuses with heart defects. Additionally, approximately a quarter of all fetuses had structural brain abnormalities, regardless of the severity of the heart defect.
Scientists at Aalto University found that Cooper pairs break in bursts with long periods of silence, and the rate of these events decreases over time. This discovery provides important clues about the source of energy that breaks Cooper pairs and could lead to improvements in superconductor devices.
A new study by ISGlobal found no association between overall mobile device exposure and sleep disturbances in pre-adolescents, but suggested an effect on sleep when exposure occurs in the evening. The study of over 1,500 children aged 9-12 years old found that those making phone calls in the evening had reduced sleep time.
Researchers have identified a new molecular component of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) pathological aggregates, a circular RNA called circ-Hdgfrp3. This circular RNA plays a crucial role in the formation and progression of ALS, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target.
Weill Cornell Medicine researchers have developed a new approach to analyze genetic mutations associated with spina bifida, shedding light on this complex birth defect. The study uses machine learning to identify genes and molecular pathways relevant to neural tube closure.
Researchers found that SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin can improve insulin sensitivity in the brain, leading to better glucose control and reduced liver fat content. This breakthrough discovery positions SGLT2 inhibitors as a potential treatment for insulin resistance in the brain.
A new study published in PNAS found that large mammals died out at the end of the last ice age due to a warming climate and vegetation expansion. Rewilding efforts with animals like bison and horses are unlikely to reverse this trend, as climate change remains the primary driver of ecosystem changes.
Scientists at Sandia National Labs invent a new yardstick for benchmarking performance of quantum computers. The mirror-circuit method is faster and more accurate than conventional tests, revealing the true potential and limitations of quantum processors.
Researchers developed a new photoacoustic imaging technique to visualize deep tissues using a contrast agent based on surfactant-stripped semiconducting polymer micelles. The method achieved the deepest penetration depth among PA preclinical studies, exceeding 5.8cm in tissue thickness.
Families of children with serious illnesses have higher rates of healthcare use and physical/mental health issues compared to those without such conditions. The study included 6,900 children and found significant associations between family health outcomes and the child's condition.
Researchers from SUTD developed a highly-customisable, 3D-printed peristaltic pump kit for microfluidics, which can be downloaded and assembled by users. The pump kit is powered by Arduino and offers precise control of flow rates, with an estimated cost of $50 per unit.
A new muscle layer has been discovered on the jaw, contradicting traditional anatomy descriptions. The masseter muscle was found to have an additional third layer, which is involved in stabilizing the lower jaw and pulling it backwards.
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis described for the first time the structure of CcsBA, a protein that transports heme and attaches it to cytochromes. The study revealed two conformational states of CcsBA, allowing scientists to characterize the enzyme mechanism.
Researchers at Binghamton University developed a new methodology called E-beacon that can detect SARS-CoV-2 with reliable results in under 2 hours. The E-beacon uses enzymatic beacons to recognize specific sequences in the virus' spike gene, producing a brighter light signal with increasing virus nucleic acid presence.
A recent study has uncovered an extraordinary abundance of marine life beneath the Antarctic ice shelf, defying expectations. The discovery of 77 species, including bryozoans and serpulid worms, reveals a thriving ecosystem that has existed for nearly 6,000 years.
Exercise modifies the adaptation of the liver to increased energy intake, regulating enzymes for glucose and fructose degradation. Regular physical activity also improves glucose control and reduces fat storage in the liver, offering a comprehensive insight into molecular adaptations to high-energy diets.
Researchers at Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology have developed a promising anode material for lithium-ion batteries that can enable extremely fast charging. The material, made from a bio-based polymer, showed enhanced lithium-ion kinetics and durability, retaining up to 90% of its capacity after 3,000 charge-discharge...
Researchers identify previously unknown population of white-handed gibbons in Peninsular Malaysia, showing unusual mutations and potential local speciation. The discovery informs conservation efforts for translocation and reintroduction programs.
A new research framework is needed to fully understand plant biology, integrating multiple approaches and levels of organization. By incorporating spatiotemporal context, scientists can better comprehend the complexities of plant life and develop more effective solutions for conservation and sustainability.
Researchers created 3D DNA-like structures using advanced 3D printing and microscopy, discovering nanoscale topological textures in the magnetic field. This breakthrough enables control over magnetic forces on the nanoscale, promising new possibilities for particle trapping, imaging techniques, and smart materials.
Research in Sweden, Bhutan, and Turkey finds that low maternal mental health affects children's attentiveness, social understanding, and decision-making skills. Small community support and social networks can mitigate this impact.
Researchers from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia identified several new clinical considerations in WAGR syndrome, including kidney issues, cardiometabolic health problems, and variations in eye issues. The study provides guidance for proper diagnosis, management, and potential treatment options, highlighting the need for individual...
Researchers discovered a new simple mechanism of tooth class transformation in vertebrate lizards, affecting teeth size and attachment type. The EDA gene mutation led to significant changes in dental features, shedding light on tooth development in non-mammalian lineages.
Individuals with high-risk prediabetes significantly improved their blood glucose levels through more exercise and healthy eating behavior, while those at low risk showed limited benefits from conventional lifestyle intervention. The study's findings support personalized interventions tailored to each patient's risk profile for effecti...
A new study found that changes in specific genes contribute to the roughly 400 sudden unexplained deaths in children aged one year and older. Nearly 9% of the analyzed DNA codes had genetic changes in genes regulating calcium function, which can cause arrhythmias and seizures, increasing the risk of sudden death.
A new study has generated a massive dataset of artificial voice recordings, revealing subtle differences in high frequencies between real and fake files. The researchers developed algorithms that can distinguish between deepfakes and real speech, providing a starting point for other researchers to improve detection methods.
A new study by Carnegie Mellon University estimates that current regulatory analyses of air pollution significantly understate mortality costs among racial minorities. The study found that using race- and ethnicity-specific data increases premature mortality estimates related to PM2.5 from pollution exposure, with a $100 billion annual...
A recent study analyzing air bubbles preserved in Antarctic ice for up to 1.5 million years suggests that glacial erosion is likely responsible for the decline of atmospheric oxygen levels over the past 800,000 years.
The NYU Tandon team is developing an AI 'virtual assistant' to provide just-in-time visual and audio feedback for complex tasks. The project aims to create a dynamic intelligent agent that engages with users, responding to their emotional state, location, and surrounding conditions.
A new study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology found that frail patients with atrial fibrillation are under-prescribed for direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), a safer alternative to traditional warfarin treatment. Despite needing DOACs most, these patients are less likely to receive them than non-frail patients.
A research team at Toyohashi University of Technology demonstrates a new substrate structure that enables the excitation and detection of high-intensity broadband spin waves, even when miniaturized. The YIG-on-metal (YOM) structure achieves broader frequency bandwidth and higher intensity than conventional electrode structures.
A new report highlights the need for a comprehensive system of risk management to deal with complex environmental risks. Experts from academia and government have identified key sources of data and interventions to reduce multiple types of risk, including air pollution, food insecurity, and zoonotic diseases.
Researchers have uncovered a 50,000-year-old social network spanning eastern and southern Africa, driven by changing rainfall patterns and climate change. The study, using ostrich eggshell beads, found nearly identical bead characteristics between 50,000 and 33,000 years ago, indicating a long-distance connection.
A new study found that news media amplified rather than rectified misleading health information from TV personality Dr. Oz, resulting in the further spread of misinformation. The researchers called for government oversight to lessen the risk of spreading inaccuracies.
The Lancet infographic reviews COVID-19 diagnostic tests, highlighting their strengths and limitations. The study suggests that improved test accuracy could aid in pandemic control measures.
In a new study, desert shrubs in the Southwest have increased their water use efficiency at unprecedented rates to survive a decades-long megadrought. The study found that despite this heroic increase, shrubs may not be adapting quickly enough to long-term drying trends in the West.
A clinical trial found that remote monitoring of medication's potential arrhythmic side effects is feasible and safe for patients with mild COVID-19. The study used handheld devices to transmit digital ECGs, suggesting a potential expansion of clinical research to broader populations and reducing participants' burdens.
A new study reveals that Xanthomonas euvesicatoria has evolved to evade the immune system of tomato plants by changing a single amino acid in its flagellin proteins. This finding poses significant challenges for breeding disease-resistant tomato varieties, forcing farmers to rely on fungicides and copper treatments.
A large study found that around four out of ten consultations in English family doctors' surgeries are with 'frequent attenders', who visit their GP 5 times as often as other patients. These patients account for a significant proportion of GP workload, contributing to the perception of increased workload.
Researchers from Ethiopia and Germany identified a traditional African medicinal plant that alleviates malaria symptoms in infected mice. The plant extract's active compound, anemonin, shows promise in treating the disease.
A new nomogram tool helps predict patient-level survival probabilities, accounting for sex differences in glioblastoma. The study analyzed over 1,300 patients and recommends further research on biological mechanisms underlying these differences.
A Simon Fraser University-led study highlights the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on women physicians, who bear the brunt of unpaid care work and emotional labor. The research emphasizes the need for improved support systems and recognition of women's contributions to address burnout and mental health challenges.
A new UC Riverside-led study reveals that tiny microbes belching toxic gas helped cause and prolong the biggest mass extinction in Earth's history. The heat accelerated microbes' metabolisms, creating a deadly cycle of hydrogen sulfide production.
Scientists have created a versatile carbon-loaded shellac ink suitable for disposable printed electronics. The ink achieves high electrical conductivity while maintaining stability and biodegradability. Its practical applications include conductive tracks and sensor elements in sustainable devices.
The MIT team developed a levitating rover design using ion thrusters, capable of producing enough repulsive force to hover on the moon and larger asteroids. The concept uses tiny ion beams to charge up the vehicle and boost its natural surface charge.
A new UNSW Sydney-led study has finally confirmed the mechanism behind comet tails never being green. The team recreated the galactic chemical process in a vacuum chamber and used lasers to break apart dicarbon molecules, proving physicist Gerhard Herzberg's theory correct after 90 years.
A study found that one in five cancer survivors mistakenly believed taking vitamins could reduce the risk of cancer return. Those who thought supplements reduced recurrence were three times more likely to take them. Healthcare professionals must advise patients on safe dietary supplement use.
New research combines antibiotics and phage therapy to cure infections more effectively and reduce antibiotic use. The study found that bacteriostatic antibiotics trigger CRISPR-Cas adaptive immunity in bacteria, increasing the chances of treatment efficacy.
Researchers found high levels of toxic metabolites produced by gut bacteria in MS patients' cerebrospinal fluid and plasma. The discovery suggests a potential therapeutic target for developing new MS therapies.
A Phase II trial will investigate a prime-boost regimen using two different COVID-19 vaccines, with the goal of expanding access to vaccines in Africa. The study aims to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of a mixed schedule of COVID-19 vaccines.
Scientists studied the Lanzhou Basin sedimentary succession to reconstruct Asian monsoon precipitation patterns during a warm, high-CO2 world. They found prominent short and long eccentricity cycles influencing monsoon variability, which may become increasingly susceptible to global warming.
A study by Iowa State University found that vaccine scarcity reduces perceived vaccination priority and increases vaccine hesitancy. Participants with higher levels of compassion were less likely to book an appointment when vaccines were described as scarce.
Researchers found that mRNA vaccines were highly effective (86%) in preventing SARS-CoV-2-related deaths among vaccinated individuals, especially in the elderly population. However, vaccine effectiveness against infection was lower (69%) and decreased with increasing age and comorbidity burden.
Researchers at Purdue University have identified a new pathway for producing the anti-cancer compound thymohydroquinone, found in plants like thyme and oregano. By understanding this process, plant scientists can engineer plants to produce higher levels of beneficial compounds or synthesize them in microorganisms.
The study reveals Himalayan glaciers are shrinking far more rapidly than glaciers in other parts of the world, losing around 40% of their area and massive amounts of ice. The accelerating melting threatens the water supply of millions of people in Asia.
Researchers have successfully incorporated phosphorene nanoribbons into new types of solar cells, achieving an efficiency above 21%, comparable to traditional silicon-based solar cells. The unique properties of PNRs, including improved hole mobility, enable the creation of high-performance optoelectronic devices.
Research reveals that HIV-positive individuals with cocaine addiction struggle to withhold behavioral responses due to distinct brain activity patterns. This finding highlights the need for targeted interventions to address dual diagnosis in recovery programs.
A new study reveals that climate change causes a mismatch between above- and belowground plant phenology, with woody plants responding more strongly to warming in their roots. This finding highlights the importance of plant root phenology and its impact on ecosystem functioning.
A NTU study found that entrepreneurs quickly build trust in work-related situations and adapt to dishonesty. They also recover more easily from losing trust, making them valuable assets for organisations in negotiation and trust-building roles.
A study found that Covid-19 vaccine protection wanes after three months, increasing the risk of hospitalization and death from severe disease. Booster programs are recommended to maintain maximum protection.
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted work-life boundaries, particularly for mothers, who took on more childcare responsibilities. Research in Finland found that mothers' flexibility was key to managing multiple roles, while the absence of support services highlighted gendered practices.
Scientists suggest that possible lifeforms in Venus' clouds are producing ammonia, which neutralizes sulfuric acid and increases the pH of the clouds. This process makes the environment more tolerable to live in, despite being extremely acidic. The study proposes a biological origin for the ammonia, rather than non-biological sources.
A new study projects that increased alcohol consumption during the COVID-19 pandemic will result in 8,000 additional deaths from liver disease and 18,700 cases of liver failure by 2040. The researchers estimated a one-year increase in consumption to cause 100 additional deaths and 2,800 cases of liver failure by 2023.
Researchers at PPPL develop an algorithm to solve the complex equation describing free electron motion in tokamaks, enabling accurate simulations and better control of plasma. This breakthrough provides a rigorous mathematical proof and expands the capabilities of the Computational Sciences Department.
Marquette University has received a two-year, $3.8 million grant from the U.S. Department of Defense to develop novel technologies for protecting the environment and providing clean drinking water. The 'In Defense of Water' program will focus on four areas: water reuse, disinfection, PFAS removal, and water data fusion.
Research found the female genital field's location varies among women and is thicker with more frequent sex. The somatosensory cortex devotes space to detecting touch, and the region's structure alters in relation to use.
Study reveals that employees' performance is influenced by human attitudes, interactions, emotions, and environmental conditions. Smart tools like wearable sensors and smartphones were used to monitor workers' behavior, leading to a better understanding of individual, collaborative, and environmental factors affecting productivity.
A new national study found that school uniforms have no effect on young students' behavior or attendance. However, students who attended schools with uniform requirements reported lower levels of 'school belonging'. The study's findings suggest that fashion and self-expression may play a role in students' sense of belonging.
A recent University of Waterloo study shows that wearable biosensors can provide insight into patterns of health-related behaviour and disease symptoms, enabling remote monitoring of people with complex health conditions. The study found that participants were willing to wear multi-sensor devices for extended periods, highlighting the ...
Despite over 200 restored wetlands in Denmark, botanical diversity remains low, with only 9.5 species per four square meters found in the studied areas. High nutrient input from agriculture continues to affect plant species dispersal and immigration, making it a significant barrier to increased biodiversity.
The study found that two doses of Moderna and Pfizer vaccines produced higher antibody concentrations than a single dose of Johnson & Johnson vaccine, with levels more than 10 times higher for recovered COVID-19 patients. The analysis also showed that the Moderna vaccine had the lowest risk for breakthrough infections.
University of Minnesota researchers create a self-healing concrete alternative using bacteria-engineered silica, offering potential for biomedical applications. The study provides a framework for designing novel engineered living materials with improved strength and responsiveness.
Researchers at NIST developed new standards and calibrations for optical microscopes, enabling accurate measurement of microdroplet volumes smaller than 100 trillionths of a liter. They combined microscopy with gravimetry to verify results, linking their findings to fundamental constants of nature.
The study developed a new strategy to sequence thousands of bacterial isolates with collaborators from economically-challenged countries, aiming to make genomic data more accessible. The 10,000 Salmonella genomes research consortium sequenced and analysed 10,000 Salmonella genomes from Africa and Latin America, strengthening global res...