Researchers found a key gene, OsTCP19, that helps rice adapt to low soil nitrogen levels. By introducing this gene into modern cultivars, farmers can improve crop yields while reducing fertilizer use, leading to more sustainable agricultural practices.
Researchers developed GeoMEDD, a near-real-time spatial assessment of COVID-19 cases to help hospitals and health departments respond to clusters of outbreaks. The methodology enhances traditional mapping by analyzing data streams from various sources to identify emergent patterns.
A recent study by the University of Tsukuba found that drinking two cups of oolong tea a day can increase fat breakdown by about 20% in healthy volunteers. This effect was observed even when participants were asleep, suggesting a potential role for oolong tea in weight management.
Researchers at Purdue University developed a stabilized form of human calcitonin, a peptide hormone that inhibits bone resorption and increases bone mass. The new drug form, which is less prone to fibrillation, may provide a more effective option for osteoporosis patients.
A large-scale study by Bentley University found that 78% of biotech companies completing Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) from 1997-2016 achieved product approvals. The majority of these approved products were small molecule drugs, accounting for 75% of phase 3 products and 78% of approvals.
A Swedish registry study found that only 0.77 intensive care patients per 100,000 children aged 1-16 were treated for COVID-19 or multi-inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C). Despite schools being open during the pandemic, none of the children died within two months after their intensive care period.
A UK survey conducted before and during the pandemic reveals that women and ethnic minorities experienced a significant increase in average mental distress, with BAME men experiencing a greater average increase than White British men. The study suggests that the pandemic may have particularly affected the mental wellbeing of these groups.
A comprehensive study of the Antarctic's status quo and future reveals alarming changes due to climate change, including ocean acidification and increased biodiversity. The team forecasts a more intense 'greening' of coastal areas but warns that prolonged warming could lead to species extinction.
A new study suggests that fact-checking labels from health institutions and research universities can positively impact attitudes toward vaccines. The study found that these labels generate more positive attitudes than misinformation alone, with perceived source expertise making a difference.
A new study by Tel Aviv University reveals that a devastating earthquake measuring 6.5 on the Richter scale is expected to hit Israel in the coming years. The research analyzed 220,000 years of geological record from the Dead Sea and found that earthquakes with this magnitude occur every 130-150 years on average.
Georgia State University and Emory University collaborate to train nursing home staff in innovative telementoring model to prevent SARS-CoV-2 spread. The ECHO model provides virtual community of learners, sharing best practices and knowledge on infection control, care for asymptomatic residents, and reducing social isolation.
A recent study found that Hawai'i drought is only associated with Eastern Pacific El Niño, while Central Pacific El Niño events result in deficient rainfall in Hawaii only 60% of the time. This new information has significant implications for water resource management and planning in Hawai'i.
Researchers developed a new approach using light-based processors to accelerate matrix-vector multiplications in neural networks. The photonic chips achieve parallel calculations using multiple wavelengths of light, enabling complex mathematical tasks to be processed at high speeds and throughputs.
A new advanced computing technique enables doctors to take fewer, more accurate tumour biopsies by combining computed tomography (CT) scans with ultrasound images. This method captures the patchwork of different cancer cell types within a tumour, critical for selecting the best treatment.
A new study from Bentley University finds that emerging public biotech companies generated over $100 billion in shareholder value despite a high failure rate. The research compares the financial performance of biotech and non-biotech companies with similar IPO timelines, revealing comparable success rates and economic value creation.
Gills can't keep up with fish bodies as they grow, leading to oxygen limitation. This constraint affects fish reproduction and fisheries, particularly in warm waters with low oxygen levels.
A third of US households with children are 'net worth poor,' lacking enough financial resources to sustain their families for three months at a poverty level. The study found that Black and Latino families were twice as likely to experience net worth poverty than have poverty-level incomes.
Researchers at the University of Bonn used ultracold atoms to study magnetic orders in coupled thin films, finding that correlations competed with original order. The study provides new insights into novel quantum phenomena and their potential applications in quantum computing and superconductors.
A recent study by Morgan Grabau found that cattle grazing on corn residue in the spring can increase soybean yields and minimize soil compaction. Contrary to initial concerns, the team discovered that even high-intensity grazing did not significantly affect subsequent crop growth.
Ridesourcing companies Uber and Lyft's arrival in cities leads to a significant increase in vehicle ownership, with car registrations per capita rising by 0.7% on average. This effect is more pronounced in car-dependent cities and areas with higher income and fewer children, where transit use also decreases.
A new review by Swansea University reveals that the 'learning styles' theory, which advises matching teaching to students' supposed learning styles, persists despite being ineffective and potentially harmful. The study found that nearly 90% of educators worldwide believe in the efficacy of learning styles.
Increased diagnostic scrutiny is linked to rapid rise in melanoma diagnoses, according to a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine. Melanoma incidence has doubled among adults 65 and older over the past two decades, despite stable mortality rates.
A breakthrough in optical neural networks accelerates computing speed and processing power to over 1000 times that of previous processors. The system can process record-sized images and achieve full facial image recognition.
Researchers at UHN's Peter Munk Cardiac Centre found statins to be effective in reducing the risk of heart failure in women treated for early breast cancer. The study showed that taking statins was associated with a 55% lower risk of hospitalization or emergency department visits for heart failure.
Scientists at NAIST create arrays of isosceles silicon pyramids with flat facet planes, achieving ultrafine 3D shape control. Coating the pyramids with a thin layer of iron imparts unique magnetic properties.
A new study by palliative care specialists found that participants in an online course could use more pleasant words to express their feelings about death. The course aimed to change perspectives on death and dying, enabling better planning for end-of-life care.
A long-term study has discovered dozens of new genetic markers associated with bone mineral accrual, which could help identify causes of osteoporosis earlier in life through genetic testing. The findings suggest that risk of fractures occurring later in life may be identifiable in childhood and could lead to tailored interventions.
Researchers at UMD developed a morphing nozzle to control fiber orientation during composite additive manufacturing, enabling the creation of materials with on-demand properties. This innovation could lead to new biomedical and defense applications for 3D printed fiber-filled composites.
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder discovered a link between ancient cyanobacteria and the Great Oxygenation Event. The study suggests that these single-celled organisms played a crucial role in transforming the planet's chemistry, producing oxygen gas that paved the way for life on Earth.
Researchers developed a blood test that detects misfolded proteins in blood, predicting Alzheimer's disease risk in people with subjective cognitive decline. The test identified those at high and low risk, providing hope for early-stage treatment.
Industry incumbents face difficult choices during technological disruption, such as cannibalizing successful offerings or investing in both. The study's generalized model can capture variations in adopter segments, including leapfroggers, switchers, opportunists, and dual users, to estimate cannibalization and coexistence.
The team has established a quantum key distribution system over a total distance of 4,600 kilometers for users across China. The system uses trusted relays, ground-based fiber networks, and satellite-to-ground links to achieve unhackable encryption for secure information transfer.
Researchers at Aarhus University are developing physics-informed data-driven models to improve wind farm flow simulations, optimization, and control. The new framework aims to capture complex interactions between atmospheric turbulent flows and the environment using big data in real environments.
Researchers have developed a method to detect Cas9 protein, a key component of CRISPR/Cas gene editing technology, in human plasma and mouse models. This breakthrough aims to identify athletes who may be using gene doping to gain an unfair advantage.
Researchers use dust in deep sea sediments to track ancient wind patterns, finding evidence that atmospheric circulation will change with climate warming. The study suggests the westerlies may continue to migrate poleward as temperatures rise.
A new study suggests that sea star wasting disease is caused by a lack of oxygen, as elevated microbial activity depletes the water's oxygen levels. This creates a hypoxic environment that surrounds the starfish, leading to respiratory distress and ultimately, their death.
A NIH-supported workshop reveals gaps in knowledge about the effects of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in women, including sex-based differences in outcomes and responses to treatment. Research opportunities include imaging studies, examination of brain tissue, and longitudinal studies on military-related TBI in female servicemembers.
Global campaigns to eliminate tropical parasitic worm infections require better diagnostic tools. Researchers at WashU Medicine are developing improved diagnostics with a $2.95 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
The event aims to explore connections, camaraderie, and visibility within digital communities, considering their development, growth, and real-world interactions. The conference features keynote speakers, special guests, and a wide range of submissions from various media forms.
An observational study compared changes in out-of-hospital cardiac arrests and fatalities in the Detroit area during COVID-19 to year-earlier events, revealing a significant increase in these incidents. The study found that cardiac arrest rates rose by 24% during the pandemic period.
A new study published by the European Society of Cardiology found that COVID-19 infection nearly doubles the risk of death in patients with acute heart failure. The research highlights the need for extra precautions to be taken by these patients, including vaccination and social distancing.
A study published in Nature reveals that a specific region of the brainstem is responsible for various fine motor activities of the forelimbs. The researchers used optogenetic and viral methods to mark neurons and observe their activity, identifying four neuronal subpopulations correlated with specific functions.
Research found that ginger's 6-gingerol lowers autoantibody production and helps halt disease progression in mice with antiphospholipid syndrome and lupus. The compound prevents neutrophil extracellular trap release, triggering autoantibodies and inflammation.
Bath scientists and industry partners are developing a way to chemically break down mixtures of plastics into their constituent molecules, enabling more efficient recycling. The team is also exploring automation of the process to enhance efficiency.
Scientists have developed inexpensive conductive inks for clog-free ballpoint pens that can draw flexible electronic circuits on a variety of textures and even rough or irregular surfaces. The new ink composition provides stable and smooth writing performance, releasing no harmful gases during use.
Researchers developed molecular ON-OFF switches to regulate CAR T cell activity, potentially reducing toxic side effects. The switches use an FDA-approved drug to turn off or on the cells' anti-tumor function.
A recent study found that 85.9% of COVID-19 patients with mild cases experienced olfactory dysfunction, lasting an average of 21.6 days. Nearly one-quarter of patients did not recover their sense of smell 60 days after losing it.
A recent study found that MBCT reduces feelings of self-inadequacy and improves self-reassurance in patients with depression. Individuals who showed improvements in self-reassurance were less likely to experience depressive relapse within 2 years after the intervention.
Researchers at Osaka University discovered that liver cancer cells induce autophagy in nearby stromal cells, leading to the secretion of GDF15, which enhances tumor growth. High levels of GDF15 are associated with a poorer prognosis in HCC patients.
The novel coronavirus was a major focus of chemistry research in 2020, with thousands of papers published on mask efficacy, disinfectants and virus transmission. Other notable topics included new insights into planetary atmospheres and the impact of climate change on wildfires.
Researchers have created non-toxic versions of botulinum neurotoxins that can deliver therapeutic antibodies to neurons, reversing paralysis within hours. The toxin derivatives offer a promising approach to treat established cases of botulism and target hard-to-reach molecules.
A UCI study links pharmacy deserts in Los Angeles County to social determinants of health, such as poverty and crime rates. The study found that communities with limited pharmacy access often have higher rates of Latino and Black residents, lower vehicle ownership, and greater poverty.
Researchers found measurable immune memory to SARS-CoV-2 in recovered patients for up to 8 months. Long-lasting protective immunity against COVID-19 is a possibility, with resting immune memory compartments potentially contributing to protection.
Researchers have discovered a strengthening mechanism in biological ceramics by studying the shells of bivalve mollusks. The shell's microscopic structure features nanoscopic defects that improve its structural strength and damage tolerance.
Scientists have created an automated process to analyze thiols at very low concentrations in beer, shedding light on the compounds responsible for hoppy flavors. The new method uses tandem mass spectrometry and meets requirements for detecting thiols while processing samples in a safer and quicker manner.
A recent study by Boston University School of Public Health found that vaping does not reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease when used in conjunction with cigarette smoking. In fact, dual use of e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes may be as harmful to cardiovascular health as exclusive cigarette smoking.
Researchers designed proteins to form honeycomb structures that block uptake of receptors from cell surfaces. This discovery could enable new materials for modulating cell behavior and treating diseases such as sepsis, COVID-19, heart disease, and diabetes.
Researchers develop peptide that disrupts protective outer coating of TB pathogen, making it susceptible to antibiotics and die. The peptide specifically targets the fatty acid on the pathogen's surface, allowing it to effectively kill the bacteria without harming good bacteria.
The study provides a detailed understanding of the crustal deformation mechanism in the western Qilian Mountains, northeastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau. The researchers discovered a decoupled crustal deformation with intra-crustal decollement layers, which reveals the Asian lithospheric mantle being underthrust beneath the region.
Shiga toxin, produced by enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC), is thought to be a killer of host cells, but new research suggests it may actually be designed to dampen the immune system instead. This unexpected role could lead to breakthroughs in treating deadly kidney disease and bloody diarrhea caused by EHEC infections.
A randomized controlled trial found no difference in infection rates and sinus symptoms between patients who received antibiotics and those who didn't after endoscopic sinus surgery. However, patients in the antibiotic group were more likely to report gastrointestinal side effects.
Researchers at CytoDel developed a precision biotherapeutic that can enter neurons and protect SNARE proteins by inhibiting botulinum neurotoxin's catalytic activity. This non-viral delivery method has potential for treating multiple neurological diseases, including synaptopathies.
A new study published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research found that living alone after experiencing a hip fracture may further elevate this risk. Living alone was associated with a 37% higher risk of death in men and a 23% higher risk in women, compared to those living with a partner.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center found a potential link between opioid use and increased risk of pancreatic cancer. The study, which analyzed data from 1999-2016, suggests that opioid consumption may be an unidentified risk factor contributing to the rising incidence of pancreatic cancer in the US.
Researchers found that the HTT gene mutation affects brain and body growth, leading to increased susceptibility to brain cell death, even in children as young as six. Gene therapy trials are underway to slow disease progression and potentially prevent onset by delivering gene therapy to carriers.
A study of 145 scholarly journals found that peer review itself is unlikely to explain gender disparities in publication rates. Despite improvements in female representation in certain fields, a persistent gap remains between male and female authors.
Researchers mapped the platypus genome to understand its evolution, discovering that it carries genes from a common ancestor with birds and reptiles. The study found that platypuses lay eggs due to retained vitellogenin genes, produce milk through sweat, and have venomous spurs.
A new study by NTNU finds that sustainable innovation has a positive effect on companies' competitiveness, with 64 of 100 articles concluding that it has a positive impact. The study also highlights that innovation and sustainability often lead to increased value creation, reduced costs, and new business opportunities.
A new study found that COVID-19 survivors have immune cells necessary to fight re-infection, with virus-specific antibodies and memory B cells persisting in the bloodstream. This suggests that people may have protective immunity against serious disease for at least eight months after infection.
A recent study by UCSF-led researchers highlights the devastating impact of the pandemic on 4.3 million older adults with cognitive impairment living alone. These individuals experience extreme isolation, misinformation, and barriers to accessing medical care, leading to increased distress and negative health outcomes.
Researchers update current research focus from 'immune-centric-only' view to better understand autoimmune diseases like type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis. The study identifies common gene expression changes at target tissues, highlighting the importance of studying both immune system and target tissues.
A bio-pesticide made from safflower and cottonseed oils has been found to work against two-spotted spider mites by preventing their embryo from rotating within its eggshell for hatching. This allows the pesticide to spare the mites' natural predators, making it a promising eco-friendly solution for farmers and gardeners.
A modelling study suggests that pregnant women in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, exposed to poor air quality, are at higher risk of stillbirths and miscarriages. The study estimated 349,681 pregnancy losses per year associated with exposure to PM2.5 concentrations exceeding India's air quality standard.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified a link between gut disease and brain injury in premature infants. The study found that an immune system cell called CD4+ T cells travels from the gut to the brain and attacks healthy cells, leading to severe brain injury.
Researchers from Waseda University create a way to transform logical Ising models into physically implementable ones with lower bit widths. This approach uses auxiliary spins to achieve the desired transformation without changing the solution.
A Texas A&M University-led survey found that 31.1% of the US public does not intend to get vaccinated against COVID-19, with Black Americans, women, and conservatives being most hesitant. Concerns about safety and effectiveness were top reasons for vaccine reluctance across sub-populations.
The study analyzed 841 large cities' urban built-up areas expansion, population growth, and greening changes, revealing a huge pace of urbanization disparity. China demonstrated the biggest urban expansion, while cities in low-income countries lagged behind in infrastructure development and greening.
Researchers developed a breakthrough sensor system and manufacturing process for smart contact lenses, featuring a photodetector, temperature sensor, and glucose sensor. The ultra-thin sensor layer offers high detection sensitivity, good biocompatibility, and mechanical robustness.
Researchers studied why people use their smartphones at cafés, identifying three main reasons: delaying conversation, shielding interaction, and sharing content. Deliberate phone use can be seen as polite if explained or used to signal busy-ness, while excessive use can be perceived as rude.
A uOttawa study finds that mindfulness can significantly impact the brain of women suffering from neuropathic pain related to breast cancer treatment. The research shows major reductions in brain activity and a significant improvement in brain health as well as pain perception.
A Danish study found that overweight mothers had a higher risk of infertility in their sons compared to those with normal weight. The researchers also highlighted the importance of addressing risk factors for infertility globally and acknowledged the need for further studies to corroborate these findings.
Researchers developed photonic processors to process information rapidly and in parallel, enabling complex mathematical tasks at fast speeds. These chips use wavelength multiplexing for highly parallel data processing.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society found that food insecurity increased significantly among older US adults from 5.5% to 12.4% between 2007 and 2016. Older adults with food insecurity tend to have lower quality diets.
A new study found that a quarter of young adults in the US rely on porn for information on how to have sex. Heterosexual men were more likely to use porn than female respondents, who preferred their partners as sources of guidance. The study emphasizes the importance of comprehensive sex education and communication skills.
A recent study published in Acta Paediatrica found that skin-to-skin contact with the father can help establish stable physiological parameters and increase wakefulness in newborns after Caesarean section delivery. This approach may provide benefits during mother-infant separation, suggesting its potential as a supportive strategy.
A recent study from King's College London has found that smoking is associated with an increased risk of COVID-19 symptoms and severity. Current smokers were more likely to develop the classic triad of symptoms suggesting diagnosis of COVID-19, including fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
University of Wyoming researchers have successfully converted raw coal powder into nano-graphite using a one-step metal-assisted microwave treatment method. This method has the potential to provide an alternative source of high-value materials, reducing environmental concerns and ecological impact.
Researchers successfully used DNA-editing to extend the lifespan of mice with progeria by correcting the accelerating aging disorder. The treatment restored normal DNA sequences in various organs and improved mouse lifespans from seven months to nearly 1.5 years.
Researchers found that statin users were 55% less likely to be treated at the hospital for heart failure after anthracycline treatment, and 54% less likely with trastuzumab treatment. Statins may be a potential intervention for preventing heart failure in patients receiving chemotherapy.
Researchers developed a novel probe to study how a 'matchmaker' molecule generates a 'wait' signal at kinetochores, ensuring accurate chromosome inheritance. This discovery provides insight into how accuracy of chromosome inheritance can be lowered in diseases like cancer.
A team of Binghamton University researchers will explore advanced grid-forming PV inverter control technologies to integrate renewable energy sources into the US electric grid, aiming for increased reliability and scalability. The three-year project will focus on developing a new grid-forming control algorithm at a hybrid PV plant.
A study finds that thermal power plants are already struggling to keep up with growing electricity demand on hot days, leading to reduced capacity and increased greenhouse gas emissions. The research warns that as global warming intensifies, power plant outages on hot days could nearly double, straining the electricity grid.
A recent survey study found that providing COVID-19 case information on maps did not improve public knowledge or behavior. The study suggests that more effective strategies are needed to educate the public about COVID-19 risks.
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have unveiled the core structure of cyanobacteria's light-harvesting antenna, revealing key features that collect energy and block excess light absorption. The study provides insights into future energy applications and helps explain how living organisms maximize photosynthetic efficiency.
A new study published in Sports Medicine finds that resistance training has similar benefits for older women and men, with women achieving greater relative increases in lower body strength. The research suggests that trainers should program differently for each sex to maximize training benefits.
Researchers have identified brain cells most susceptible to Alzheimer's disease, which could lead to targeted treatments to boost the brain's resilience. The study found that RORB-expressing neurons are among the first to die in the disease, accumulating tau tangles earlier than neighboring cells.
Researchers developed a new method to study molecular characteristics of T cells, enabling easier analysis of T cell receptors. Using this approach, they discovered that the variety of TCRs in T cells has a weaker influence on functional status in cancer patients.
Researchers at Swansea University have received £230,000 to develop a smart vaccine device that delivers the COVID-19 vaccine and measures its efficacy through monitoring biomarkers in the skin. The device uses microneedles for minimally invasive delivery and offers a personalized vaccination approach.
A study from Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals that exposure to B. fragilis toxin can increase the risk of breast cancer by leaving a lasting impression on cells. Researchers found that breast tissue cells exposed to the toxin retained a long-term memory, leading to tumor growth and metastasis in mice.
A new study found that lower hydroxychloroquine blood levels are associated with a higher risk of clots in lupus patients. By monitoring blood levels, clinicians may be able to reduce clotting rates by up to 12% with increased dosing.