Research suggests that people with Barrett's esophagus, a disorder causing the esophagus to resemble intestinal cells, have SARS-CoV-2 receptors that can bind and become infected by the virus. This increases the risk of infection through swallowing the virus.
A new trial published in The BMJ found that adding the arthritis drug tocilizumab to standard care for patients with severe Covid-19 did not improve clinical outcomes at 15 days. In fact, the study showed an increased number of deaths among patients receiving the drug.
A large international study evaluated the UK National Early Warning Risk Score 2 for predicting severe COVID-19 outcomes. The scoring system, widely used in UK NHS trusts, showed moderate success in short-term predictions but poor-to-moderate accuracy in medium-term outcomes.
The UAB team created hollow polymer capsules that can track cancer drug delivery using PET imaging, targeting solid tumors and releasing anticancer drugs upon rupture. The system overcomes limitations in current PET-guided theranostic agents with stable zirconium-89 binding.
Researchers have developed a new method to accurately characterize the thickness of hundreds-layer semiconductor devices using optical spectral measurements and machine learning. The technique can determine layer thickness with an average error of 1.6 Å, helping control etching and deposition processes.
Researchers have discovered a method to produce silicon at room temperature using electrical currents instead of extreme heat, which could slash energy use and cost in the industry. This technique replaces thermochemical processes with electrochemical processes, converting clean electricity into chemical energy.
A Mayo Clinic study found that age influences sex-related outcomes after a heart attack, with younger women being more likely to experience vascular complications and major bleeds. The study analyzed over 6.7 million hospitalization records and showed distinct differences in risk profiles for heart disease between men and women.
A new study finds that exercise protein MOTS-c improves physical performance, capacity and fitness in older mice. In human subjects, MOTS-c levels increase after exercise and may hold promise for addressing age-related decline and frailty.
The study reveals that the Flensburg meteorite contains carbonates dating back over three million years, making them the oldest in the solar system. The findings also suggest that liquid water existed on a minor planet early in the solar system's formation.
A recent study found a sharp increase in methamphetamine overdose deaths across all racial and ethnic groups, but non-Hispanic American Indians and Alaska Natives had the highest death rates overall. The study highlights the need for culturally tailored prevention and treatment strategies to address this growing crisis.
A new study expands the 64Cu-DOTATATE PET imaging time window to three hours post-injection, detecting similar numbers of lesions as a one-hour scan. The extended imaging time allows for more flexible routine imaging of patients with neuroendocrine neoplasms.
Researchers analyzed tree rings in Alaska to understand the climate's response to the 1783 Laki Volcano eruption. They found that tree growth stopped suddenly after the eruption, suggesting a sudden cooling at the end of the growing season.
Researchers developed a method to detect pancreatic cancer by analyzing changes in albumin's structure and function. The approach showed promise in distinguishing between benign and malignant tumours, but further testing is needed.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have discovered that removing a key gene called Cbl-b can revitalize exhausted CD8+ T cells to combat malignant tumors. This breakthrough could offer a new approach to harnessing the body's immune system to fight cancers.
Researchers found that catnip and silver vine contain intoxicating chemicals that repel mosquitoes when cats rub against them. The study identified nepetalactol as the most potent compound in silver vine leaves, which activates the opioid reward system in both domesticated felines and big jungle cats.
A new study examines the factors associated with US public motivation to self-test for COVID-19 and distribute self-test kits. The research found that individual characteristics, social norms, and community-level factors play a significant role in shaping this motivation.
A new study by the University of Nottingham and Durham University found that advanced InSAR techniques could have foreseen the catastrophic tailings dam collapse in Brazil, which killed over 200 people. The research reveals that different areas of the dam were moving at different rates, indicating that failure was foreseeable.
Researchers at Tohoku University developed a VR-based method to increase bodily awareness and improve motor control. The study found that artificial manipulation of agency enhances the effectiveness of rehabilitation and aid sports training techniques.
University of Kentucky researchers discovered that low blood amylin levels may protect against Alzheimer's disease progression, suggesting a potential therapeutic target. The study found that modulating blood amylin levels could improve cognitive decline and slow the disease.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge have discovered a fossil of the earliest starfish-like animal, Cantabrigiaster fezouataensis, which has features in common with both sea lilies and modern-day starfish. The exceptionally preserved fossil is a missing link for scientists trying to piece together its early evolutionary history.
Researchers developed an antisense oligonucleotide that targets IRF4, silencing cancer stem cells and proliferating tumor cells. The treatment significantly reduced myeloma cell burden and increased survival of mice with human myeloma.
A new study suggests that those who recover from COVID-19 retain immunity for at least six months due to a lasting defense mounted by the immune system. The researchers found that memory B cells continued to evolve and improve the quality of antibodies even after infection had waned.
A research group found that cats use silver vine to repel mosquitoes due to its chemical defense properties. Nepetalactol activates a nervous system response in cats, which helps them transfer the substance to their fur for protection.
Researchers from GEOMAR and Kiel University discovered a deep-sea red yeast with anticancer and antibacterial effects, producing glycolipids with potential applications in medicine and biotechnology. The study found synergistic effects of certain compounds, opening doors to new pharmaceutical development and biotechnological applications.
Scientists have discovered a link between nicotine and the spread of breast cancer cells into the lungs, which can lower survival rates by 33%. Nicotine exposure creates an environment ripe for metastatic growth, attracting immune cells that promote tumor growth.
A study by Dr Edmund Lodwick found that junior doctors in the UK are struggling with end-of-life discussions during the COVID-19 pandemic, due to lack of formal training and experience. The survey of 75 foundation doctors revealed that most felt out of their depth in such discussions.
Researchers have used lasers to create bubble microrobots that can form inseparable shapes and control their movement. The robots can manipulate small pieces into interconnected structures with unbreakable connections.
Researchers have developed a prototype of an anode-free zinc-based battery that uses low-cost, naturally abundant materials. The battery shows high efficiency, energy density and stability, opening new directions for using aqueous zinc-based batteries in energy storage systems.
A study by University of Zurich's Faculty of Business, Economics and Informatics found that fellow students' personalities, particularly persistence, influence academic performance. Persistent peer groups improve academic achievement, which carries over to subsequent courses.
Researchers found that antidepressants were either ineffective or provided a small effect on chronic back pain, with effects being even smaller for osteoarthritis. The study suggests antidepressants may not be the best treatment option for these conditions and could even cause adverse events.
Researchers at Lund University discovered that butterfly wings exhibit aerodynamic efficiency through a unique wingbeat mechanism. The 'wing clap' creates a backward jet that propels the butterflies forward, while also allowing them to stay aloft.
A recent study published in Maturitas found that UV-radiation can affect the levels of oestrogens and gonadotropins in postmenopausal women, increasing the risk of osteoporosis, cardiac diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. Researchers recommend carefully monitoring sun exposure to prevent harm.
A study from Uppsala University reveals that all European eels share the same gene pool, regardless of their location. The team used whole-genome analysis to compare DNA sequences from eels across Europe and North Africa, finding no significant differences in gene variants.
A study published in PLOS ONE finds that the tech elite hold a unique set of views, prioritizing meritocracy and progress over traditional notions of democracy. Their philanthropic statements often emphasize education, work, and social impact.
A study found that intense immunosuppression followed by hematopoietic stem cell transplants can prevent disability associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) from getting worse in up to 71% of people with relapsing-remitting MS for up to 10 years. In some cases, disability improved over time.
Boulat Bash demonstrates how quantum methods can substantially increase reliable information sending over covert channels. By applying quantum resources to sensing, he identifies the 'sweet spot' where high noise and low power levels are beneficial for covert operations.
Researchers have successfully treated two patients with beta thalassemia and sickle cell disease using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, a promising treatment for these severe red blood congenital diseases. The new approach uses the patient's own cells and eliminates the risk of rejection or graft-versus-host disease.
Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center discovered that cancer cells can fuse and recombine their genetic material, leading to increased diversity and adaptability. This mechanism, similar to parasexual recombination in pathogenic microbes, enables cancer cells to rapidly evolve and acquire resistance to treatments.
A global analysis of antibiotic combination use reveals that 80% of commonly prescribed combinations are not recommended by the WHO. The study found that these inappropriate combinations can lead to inefficacy, toxicity, and selection for antimicrobial resistance.
A Stanford study reveals that chronic inflammation driven by myeloid cells is the main driver of brain aging. The researchers found that blocking a specific hormone-receptor interaction in these cells can restore youthful metabolism and calm down inflammation, potentially reversing age-related cognitive decline.
A staggering number of over 34,000 street cattle roam the Indian city of Raipur, with one animal present for every 54 human residents. This high cattle population poses significant risks for road accidents and exacerbates human-cattle conflicts in urban areas.
Recent research by CNRS scientists suggests Saturn's current tilt is due to the migration of its largest moon Titan and other satellites, causing it to interact with Neptune's orbit, leading to gradual tilting. The planet's axis could more than double in inclination over the next few billion years.
Researchers developed a mathematical model to simulate SARS-CoV-2 infection, finding innate immunity controls viral load more effectively than adaptive immunity. The study suggests starting antiviral or interferon therapy as soon as symptoms appear.
A UK modelling study suggests that completing the WHO-recommended 14-day quarantine period after COVID-19 exposure can prevent 59% of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. Testing people on the seventh day of quarantine with a PCR or lateral flow antigen test may reduce quarantine time to 7 days without raising transmission risk.
New research from McMaster University found that treating mothers with postpartum depression with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) results in healthy changes in the brains of their babies. The study also showed that these changes lead to improved infant behavior and reduced risk of emotional problems later in life.
A large observational study published in Diabetologia found that obesity is associated with a higher risk of microvascular complications in people with type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that maintaining a healthy body mass index (BMI) before and after a diabetes diagnosis can help prevent these complications. Furthermore, the researc...
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev have discovered a protein BMP5/7 that shows promise in slowing or halting Parkinson's disease progression. Current therapies improve symptoms but do not address advanced stages.
Researchers analyzed over 5,000 bronze objects from Central European hoards and found that around 70% of rings had similar weights, suggesting a standardized currency system. This discovery indicates the earliest development of commodity money in prehistoric Europe.
Researchers have identified a potent antifungal agent, attinimicin, produced by nearly two-thirds of Pseudonocardia strains in Brazilian ants. This compound has broad geographic distribution and shows promise as a potential drug candidate for fighting fungal infections.
A Carnegie Mellon University study suggests that Duchenne smiles may not be a reliable indicator of true happiness. Researchers found that smiling eye smiles were more closely related to smile intensity than emotional state, highlighting the need for more nuanced understanding of human emotions and facial expressions.
Researchers have identified a promising therapeutic combination for renal cell carcinoma, utilizing ACE2 expression analysis. The study found that higher ACE2 expression correlates with better overall survival in patients with RCC.
A new study found that early breeding efforts in sorghum decreased harmful mutations compared to their wild relatives, unlike maize. This unexpected result may inform future breeding efforts in both crops.
A 15-year research campaign led by Rush pediatricians resulted in new national manufacturing standards making microwaves more difficult for young children to open. The change aims to protect kids from severe microwave-related burns that scar hundreds of children under 5 each year.
A delayed rainy season onset can signal a higher likelihood of seasonal drought and food insecurity in regions prone to these conditions. Analysis reveals that a 10-day delay is associated with a significantly higher risk of drought in the most vulnerable areas.
Researchers review graphene quantum dots (GQDs) synthesis methods and their application in biosensors. GQDs are valued for excellent photoelectric properties, good biocompatibility, and low cytotoxicity, making them suitable for novel luminescent nanomaterials.
Researchers at Skoltech have discovered a mixed oxide Na(Li1/3Mn2/3)O2 that shows promise as a cathode material for sodium-ion batteries. The compound exhibits high energy density, no voltage fade over multiple charge cycles, and moisture stability.
A new Commentary in Preventive Medicine suggests financial incentives could promote high levels of COVID-19 vaccine adherence, crucial for achieving herd immunity. Strong evidence from controlled trials supports the efficacy of incentivizing vaccine adherence, including a 7-fold increase in adherence with modest financial incentives.
Researchers have developed a new metamaterial that can be reprogrammed after creation, offering potential for dynamic materials with adaptive stiffness and strength. This breakthrough has far-reaching implications for industries ranging from healthcare to aerospace.
A new genetic disorder, LINKED, has been identified by NIH researchers, characterized by developmental delays and malformations of the brain, heart, and facial features. The disorder is caused by mutations in the OTUD5 gene, which interferes with key molecular steps in embryo development.
OHIO researchers have identified a potential target for anti-viral drugs to battle COVID-19 by disrupting the viral RNA's ability to reproduce. The team found that a specific section of the RNA, called stem-loop II motif, is highly conserved and essential for the virus's replication.
A new study highlights the importance of adopting a network of marine protected areas around Antarctica to conserve breeding colonies of Antarctic penguins. The proposed MPAs would increase permanent conservation by 49-100%, depending on the species, and provide critical foraging grounds for penguin populations.
New research on a Great Lakes fish species, kiyis, found that they have regained a genetic trait allowing them to see in dim blue-shifted waters, similar to their ancient ocean-dwelling ancestors. This adaptation is likely helping the fish thrive in the deeper regions of Lake Superior.
Russian women's lifestyles transformed during the pandemic due to reduced social interactions. Despite initial negative expectations, some found benefits in remote work and increased leisure time.
Scientists at Michigan Tech Research Institute studied 11 large freshwater lakes, revealing significant changes in primary productivity and carbon fixation rates over the past 16 years. Climate change, increasing nutrients, and invasive species contribute to these changes.
A Northwestern University study finds that deep sleep has an ancient power to clear waste from the brain, including toxic proteins that may lead to neurodegenerative disease. This waste clearance process is substantially enhanced during deep sleep.
A comprehensive analysis of land mammal composition across mapped Indigenous lands reveals that 2,175 mammal species have at least 10% of their ranges within these lands. The study highlights the importance of Indigenous peoples' lands for biodiversity and ecosystem services, with 413 threatened species occurring in these areas.
The research team developed a fast and affordable quantum random number generator, beating all previous records with a speed of 8.05 gigabits per second. This device has promising potential for commercial applications in cryptography and complex systems modeling.
A new biomaterial, CartiScaff, has been developed using the natural cartilage matrix to support cell growth and regeneration. This innovative material shows promise in improving cartilage repair and potentially expanding treatment options for joint injuries.
A new study has made a significant discovery about the origins of TAU protein in Alzheimer's disease, revealing its primary emergence in the rhinal cortex. The automated method, which tracks TAU buildup using PET imaging, suggests targeting this area could slow disease progression.
Researchers have developed five new bean varieties that combine the best of both worlds for farmers and consumers. These heirloom-type beans are now more resistant to disease, yield 50% more than traditional types, and offer high culinary quality.
A recent study analyzed associations between income inequality, racial composition, and political attributes with COVID-19 cases and mortality rates across US counties. The research found significant correlations between these factors and the severity of the pandemic.
A team of Penn State researchers used machine learning algorithms to improve the efficiency of design evaluations for porous materials. By leveraging image colorization techniques, they reduced computational load while maintaining accuracy. The findings provide a framework for designers to create more structurally responsible parts wit...
A new drug targeting enzymes involved in myristoylation has shown promise in treating both breast and blood cancers. Researchers found that patients with specific enzyme NMT2 were more likely to die, and the drug slowed tumour growth by 90% in mice with human breast cancer.
Researchers found that using medical terminology can reduce certain types of stigma but increase others. Non-medical terms, on the other hand, may boost confidence in recovery and perceptions of danger. The study suggests tailoring language to specific purposes is key to reducing stigma.
Researchers found that scorpion venom triggers a systemic neuroimmune reaction leading to pulmonary edema and cardiac alterations. Administration of corticosteroids, such as dexamethasone, can quickly inhibit the inflammatory process and prevent death in mice.
A new study led by Universität Bayreuth researchers found that future climate-related species extinction could be less severe than predictions based only on current global warming trends. The research team used palaeobiological and climate science models to investigate how long-term temperature trends and short-term changes affect spec...
Female Bengalese finches exhibit a lifelong preference for their father's song compared to other birds. In contrast, male finches lose this preference as they mature, suggesting sex-specific differences in vocal learning and preference.
A new study from Kyoto University found that oxytocin influences eye contact in bonobos and chimpanzees differently, promoting species-specific behaviors. The hormone shifted attention more to eyes in images for bonobos, while chimps focused on mouths.
Researchers at the University of Exeter have identified a population of dormant Vibrio parahaemolyticus bacteria that are better equipped to revive when conditions improve. The study also discovered an enzyme involved in this process, which breaks down lactic acid into pyruvate, allowing the bacteria to survive for extended periods.
The study demonstrates how to harness quantum entanglement to reduce energy fluctuations and enhance the readout of information from digital memories. This breakthrough has potential applications in large databases, next-generation computers, spectroscopy, and bio-imaging.
The study found that cathodal tDCS enhances the acquisition of abstract semantics, while anodal tDCS shows more success in learning concrete concepts. The results suggest that different neural mechanisms are involved in processing abstract and concrete word meanings.
Researchers investigated COVID-19-related government-mandated closures and restrictions on mobility in Nigeria, finding associations with a surge in SARS-CoV-2 infections. The study suggests that increased mobility during these periods contributed to the spread of the virus.
A recent study published by researchers at the UConn School of Nursing found that older adults tend to report less depression and anxiety despite experiencing greater general concern about COVID-19. The study suggests that older age may offer a buffer against negative feelings brought on by the pandemic.
A flexible underwater robot developed by University of Southampton and University of Edinburgh can swim as quickly and efficiently as squid and jellyfish, thanks to resonance technology. The robot's soft exterior and lightweight design make it ideal for operating near sensitive environments.
A new study reveals that California's coastal gillnet fisheries took a greater toll on harbor porpoises than previously thought, with the population recovering dramatically since their ban. The Morro Bay stock has rebounded by seven-fold, from an estimated 570 animals in 1991 to approximately 4,200 porpoises today.
A systematic review of antidepressant effectiveness for back and osteoarthritis pain found small, insignificant benefits for some patients. The evidence suggests that antidepressants may not be a worthwhile treatment option for chronic pain, highlighting the need for large-scale, industry-free trials.
A team of scientists has developed a novel hydrogel formula based on PEGda and HMPP for 3D direct laser writing (DLW) with low threshold power using a green laser. The new formula enables the fabrication of precise microstructures with high resolution and mechanical stability, suitable for biomedical engineering applications such as wo...
Researchers found that membrane vesicles, which carry biological information between bacteria and cells, produce more info-rich bubbles in response to antibiotics. This may lead to the transmission of warning signals to neighboring cells and potentially foster antibiotic resistance.
Researchers at Duke University developed a predictive theory for tumor growth that approaches the subject from a new point of view, using thermodynamics and physical space. The results demonstrate how a tumor's growth is directly tied to its need to create greater access to flowing nutrients and conduits for removing refuse.
Researchers used data from Curiosity rover and Earth comparisons to determine temperature impact on Martian rocks, finding it was the biggest factor in weathering sediments.
Brain cells produce brief electrical impulses triggered from highly specialized regions that adapt to sensory experiences. The study found that these trigger sites shrink with increased experiences and grow larger with reduced input.
A new biomarker of insulin resistance tied to a 600 percent increase in risk of premature coronary heart disease has been discovered. Women under 55 with type-2 diabetes have a tenfold greater risk of having CHD over the next two decades, according to the study published in JAMA Cardiology.
A new approach to describing shapes uses a network representation called visibility graph, allowing for comparison and reassembly of complex shapes. The tool, GraVis, accurately quantifies shape parameters such as lobe length and cell area.
Cornell University researchers estimated the depth of Kraken Mare on Saturn's moon Titan to be at least 1,000 feet, using data from the Cassini mission. The sea is also massive, covering an area nearly as large as all five Great Lakes combined.
Researchers studied 18 men's livers after a day of eating and drinking, finding some responded by increasing fat storage while others reduced it. The study suggests that high carbohydrate consumption may protect the liver, contradicting typical associations with alcohol.
Researchers at the University of Bonn have created miniaturized optical fiber filters that are color-tunable and extremely compact. These filters have promising applications in quantum technology and sensor development, enabling efficient storage and manipulation of light energy.
A new study found a six-fold increase in idiopathic intracranial hypertension cases over 15 years, corresponding with rising obesity rates and low socioeconomic status in women. Treatment is often weight loss, while surgery may be required in rare cases.
Researchers used 'Neuropixels' probes to capture electrical signals from hundreds of neurons, revealing how visual information flows across the brain. The study found a hierarchy of neural activity, with lower areas representing simpler concepts and higher levels capturing complex ideas.