The NRG Oncology phase II clinical trial determined that the combination of total neoadjuvant therapy with pembrolizumab and chemoradiotherapy is safe for patients with locally-advanced rectal cancer (LARC). However, it may not offer any statistically significant improvement in downstaging of the cancer at the time of surgery.
The COVID-19 pandemic severely strained Brazil's healthcare system, particularly in vulnerable regions. Nearly half of hospitalised patients under 60 years old died, with mortality rates as high as 80% for those on ventilators.
Researchers detected high-energy X-ray emissions around a group of neutron stars, known as the Magnificent 7, which could be attributed to theorized axions or dark matter. The study uses supercomputing and data analysis to predict axion production in neutron star cores.
Researchers at Tomsk Polytechnic University and the University of Lille developed a new material based on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) that can store 1.7 times more electrical energy, expanding its surface area through organic molecule modification under mild conditions.
The Gulf of Mexico holds vast untapped offshore oil deposits, thanks to a remarkable geologic past that began 200 million years ago. A unique combination of fine- and coarse-grained sediments, salt layers, and seals has made the basin a formidable petroleum resource.
Researchers found that choosing suppliers based on project characteristics can minimize significant cost overruns. The study's findings suggest that prioritizing supplier selection over pricing can lead to substantial cost savings.
AAAS introduces trial basis for cOAlition S-funded authors to publish accepted manuscripts with CC BY or CC BY-ND licenses on Science family journals. This move aims to alleviate financial burden on authors and promote diversity in scientific publishing.
Scientists develop yeast cell-based sensor to detect diclofenac in environmentally relevant concentrations, aiming to improve sensitivity and detect lower concentrations in wastewater and soil. The system uses reporter yeasts to amplify fluorescence signals, enabling rapid on-site detection.
A study by São Paulo State University reveals that large fruit-eating mammals like peccaries and tapirs increase soil nitrogen levels, making areas more fertile for plants. This boosts plant growth, supporting the ecosystem, particularly in tropical forests.
Researchers developed a GaN-based MEMS resonator that maintains stability even above 600K by regulating strain caused by heat. This device is highly sensitive, small, and can be integrated with CMOS technology, making it promising for various applications including 5G communication.
Researchers have developed a DNA test to identify secondary infections in COVID-19 patients with severe cases, who are at double the risk of developing pneumonia on ventilation. The test allows for faster diagnosis and targeted antibiotic treatment within hours, reducing unnecessary use of antibiotics.
Researchers at the University of Tartu have discovered a way to create ultrafast optical quantum computers using rare earth ions. The new method uses microcrystals synthesised on the basis of mixed optical fluoride crystal matrices, enabling faster computation and fewer errors compared to earlier solutions.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a tool to help prioritize vaccine distribution among people who share similar risks due to their jobs. The algorithm considers both age and socioeconomic status to identify those at greater risk of severe COVID-19 complications.
Researchers detected Mexican marigold in ancient Maya ceramic vessels, which they believe were mixed with tobacco to enhance its effects. The discovery sheds light on ancient Maya drug use practices and paves the way for further studies on psychoactive plants.
The study investigates the biodistribution of AAV gene transfer vectors in nonhuman primates using quantitative positron emission tomography (PET). The results show that both AAVrsh.10 and AAV9 vectors distribute primarily to the liver, with lesser detection in the brain after intravenous administration.
A team of researchers from Ruhr-University Bochum has developed a novel approach to treat spinal cord injuries by stimulating nerve cell regeneration with a designer cytokine. In a groundbreaking study, they successfully restored walking ability in paralyzed mice, paving the way for future human trials.
Researchers at OHSU have discovered that a type of herpes virus may be causing a central nervous system disease in monkeys similar to multiple sclerosis in humans. The study found T cells linked to myelin loss, a critical component of MS, paving the way for potential antiviral therapies.
A new study found that partially protected marine areas, which allow some fishing, had no more fish, invertebrates, or algae and did not attract users more highly than open areas. In contrast, fully protected areas had higher biodiversity and were valued more by coastal users.
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that ocean acidification limits algal community diversity and complexity. The study reveals that elevated CO2 levels in oceans harm marine ecosystems, threatening habitats like kelp forests.
A study conducted at the University of Turku found that patients with schizophrenia have an increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease. The research suggests that alterations in the brain's dopamine system may be a key factor contributing to this increased risk.
A national group of pediatric addiction medicine experts developed six principles of care for young adults with substance use disorder, emphasizing compassion, therapeutic optimism, and social justice. The supplement aims to elevate national discussions on addressing these challenges and improve outcomes for this unique population.
A University of Wyoming research team has resolved the controversy over the energy gap of chromium tribromide, a van der Waals material, revealing an energy gap value of around 0.3 electron volts. The study uses scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy to measure atomic resolution images and electronic properties.
Scientists have developed a rapid blood test that can predict which COVID-19 patients are at highest risk of severe complications or death. The test measures mitochondrial DNA levels in the bloodstream, which is linked to cell death and inflammation.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have successfully used a new, biodegradable magnesium-alloy stent to treat pediatric laryngotracheal stenosis. The stent showed promising results in both lab testing and rabbit models, with low degradation rates and no adverse problems.
Researchers confirm a new nuclear property that predicts the formation of helium nuclei in dilute nuclear matter. The study finds that high-energy protons scatter off preformed helium nuclei in the surface of tin nuclei, revealing a decrease in formation probability with increasing neutron excess.
Researchers analyzed MRI data from 1203 HIV-positive individuals across 5 continents, finding smaller brain volumes associated with lower white blood cell counts. The study highlights the importance of understanding how HIV infection affects the brain, particularly in the context of aging and treatment.
A new poll finds that 45% of adults aged 65-80 and 42% of all adults aged 50-80 lack online medical accounts, which could hinder COVID-19 vaccine scheduling. Patient portals can help bridge this gap, especially for those with lower incomes, education levels, or who require assistance setting up accounts.
The study explores how different factors contribute to heat-related mortality in urban areas, including the built environment and socio-economic conditions. It highlights the need for efficient infrastructure measures and spatial planning considerations to mitigate heatwave impacts on public health.
Researchers at University of Exeter found that male Drosophila simulans flies with certain genital shapes produced more offspring. Surprisingly, despite rapid evolution of genital form, selection on this trait was relatively weak.
Specialized ETFs focus on popular industries like cannabis and cybersecurity, but tend to lose value quickly. Investors who buy into these funds are often less sophisticated, leading to significant losses over time.
A team of scientists has discovered the most distant quasar ever observed, J0313-1806, which is also the earliest known quasar in the universe. The quasar is powered by a supermassive black hole weighing over 1.6 billion times the mass of the Sun.
Researchers used computer simulations to study evolution and phenotypic switching in organisms, finding that a 'hidden' switch mechanism is used for stability, and can be activated in response to environmental changes. The study suggests that this mechanism helps organisms maintain gene expression levels under stable conditions.
A team of researchers has identified a functional 'rich club' of brain regions that orchestrate the global workspace, a concept proposed by psychologist Bernard Baars in 1988. The study, published in Nature Human Behavior, used fMRI data from over 1,000 participants to reveal unique brain regions coordinating information from various s...
Researchers used Hubble's imagery to wind back the clock on a supernova remnant, pinpointing its age and centre. The study found that light from the blast arrived at Earth 1700 years ago, during the decline of the Roman Empire.
A new study published in Scientific Reports found that religious beliefs and spiritual struggles modulate protein expression associated with cardiovascular disease in US South Asians. The research suggests that spiritually focused psychotherapy may help reduce risk of CVD for individuals experiencing spiritual distress.
Researchers are investigating whether changing mealtimes to earlier or later in the day can reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The study, led by Dr Denise Robertson and Professor Jonathan Johnston, aims to explore the impact on participants' blood pressure, waist and hip circumferences, and food preferences.
Scientists discovered that taurine helps the gut recall prior infections and kill invading bacteria, such as Klebsiella pneumoniae. Taurine, found naturally in bile acids, triggers Deltaproteobacteria activity to fight off infections. The study suggests taurine may offer an alternative treatment for bacterial infections.
A study of 1,347 pediatric tumors found NTRK fusions in 29 cases, detected in 13% of papillary thyroid carcinomas and 1.9% of CNS tumors, offering new insights into prioritizing screening for targeted treatment with TRK inhibitors.
The journal features an original article on microfluidic technology and blood flow research, as well as review articles assessing antimicrobial peptides' potential in cancer therapy. It also discusses the interaction between COVID-19 and metabolic syndrome, and the entry mechanism of nanoparticles into tumors.
A new survey from the University of Missouri-Columbia found that leveraging children's special interests can help reduce anxiety and improve mental health in youth with autism. The study suggests using these interests as a positive reinforcer or educational opportunity, such as using a favorite TV show as a reward for completing tasks.
A team of researchers from the University of Minnesota has made a groundbreaking discovery in materials science by observing metallic lines in a perovskite crystal. The study, published in Science Advances, reveals new possibilities for creating transparent conductive materials that could be used in touchscreens and smart windows.
Researchers created nanodiamond sensors that can act as both heat sources and thermometers, allowing for the measurement of thermal conductivity inside living cells. This breakthrough may lead to new diagnostics tools and cancer therapies, as well as a better understanding of metabolic disorders such as obesity.
The University of Texas at San Antonio has been awarded a three-year, $5 million grant from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to develop a transformative community-based project advancing racial justice. Through the Democratizing Racial Justice initiative, selected fellows and faculty will collaborate on public-facing projects, facilitat...
Researchers from UOC-led research group present new software model verification technique to solve common problems in software development. The method enables easier verification of models during construction, facilitating early detection of errors and reducing costs.
Scientists have developed a method to control the activity of chemical catalysts using sculpted light, which can lead to faster or more efficient reactions. By manipulating the location of reactive sites on the catalyst, researchers can optimize the performance of single catalysts and avoid unwanted reactions.
Research from Purdue University and Oklahoma State University found that households purchasing food for children tend to buy more dairy products, including fluid milk and yogurt. This study provides insights into consumer behavior and can inform product marketing efforts and stakeholder decisions in the dairy industry.
A team of plant pathologists compiled annual corn reduction data from 26 US states and Ontario, Canada, revealing significant regional variations in disease impact. The analysis provides a broader view of diseases affecting corn production in the region.
Physicists propose a new theory to explain the formation of one-dimensional quantum liquids, which are self-bound in free space and can appear at extremely low temperatures. The team's microscopic theory explains their formation through effective interactions between dimers, a type of bound state of two particles.
A 42-million-year-old partial skull discovered in West Texas sheds new light on the evolutionary history of caimans and their relationship with alligators. The fossil's braincase features suggest that it belonged to a caiman, contradicting earlier assumptions.
Research!America and the Rita Allen Foundation have awarded grants to 19 graduate student-led science policy groups across the US. These virtual activities aim to involve local communities and policymakers in issues of shared importance, including data visualization projects, podcasts, and policy-oriented science fairs.
Scientists at Thomas Jefferson University discovered that CRY-1, a regulator of circadian rhythms, promotes tumor progression by altering DNA repair mechanisms. The study found that CRY-1 is strongly associated with poor outcomes in late-stage prostate cancers.
A group of scientists recommends four major improvements to enhance environmental observations in the Indian Ocean, a region warming faster than others. The enhancements aim to improve weather and climate forecasting for countries bordering its rim, vulnerable to climate change.
A new national research project will study the impact of emerging mutations in SARS-CoV-2 on its transmissibility, disease severity, and vaccine effectiveness. The 'G2P-UK' National Virology Consortium will work with leading virologists and Public Health England to better understand which mutations affect the virus.
Researchers at Northwestern University have created data-driven movies of how RNA folds in the cell, revealing unexpected mechanisms and dynamics. These findings could lead to breakthroughs in understanding and treating RNA-related diseases.
Researchers discovered that glass frogs wave their hands and feet to increase visibility in loud environments. This behavior is a unique form of visual communication among tropical frog species.
The Illinois RapidVent emergency ventilator was designed and tested by the University of Illinois team in under three weeks. The device is easy to produce, has few components, and can be powered from pressured air or oxygen.
A new nasal spray delivery method promises relief from antipsychotic medication's adverse side effects by delivering medication directly to the brain. This approach could reduce required doses by as much as three quarters, sparing patients from debilitating side effects and improving treatment efficacy.
Researchers at University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered a method to halt osteoarthritis-type knee cartilage degeneration by targeting a specific protein pathway. By over-activating the EGFR signaling pathway, they were able to slow down cartilage degeneration and knee pain in mice.
Researchers identified the movement of the Intertropical Convergence Zone as a key factor limiting predictability of Atlantic Niño. The ITCZ's seasonal migration affects sea surface temperature interaction with atmosphere, hindering large climate changes.
Researchers found guppies showed higher inhibitory control when swimming towards food in a cylinder and resisted the urge to bump into it. The study revealed consistent differences between individual guppies and a population-level difference in self-control ability compared to another strain of guppies.