Researchers found social media use to be a factor related to the spread of COVID-19, particularly in countries with high levels of youth populations and income inequality. The study also identified other factors, including urbanization and intermediate GINI inequality, that contributed to the rate of spreading.
A field trial demonstrates a stable and efficient quantum key distribution (QKD) system that can generate quantum-secure cryptographic keys at sustained rates over a standard telecommunications infrastructure. The system, developed by researchers in Italy, is designed to be easy-to-operate and integrate into existing optical networks.
Scientists have developed a Japanese rice fish model to study congenital disorders of glycosylation, including ALG2-CDG. The model replicates symptoms such as neuronal problems and retinitis pigmentosa, and demonstrates that supplying fully-functional Alg2 can prevent defects.
Researchers studied blue rice corals, which produce a natural sunscreen pigment that may help them recover from bleaching and thrive in warmer oceans. This discovery sheds light on how some coral species can better withstand climate change and ocean warming.
Scientists developed a method to predict and eliminate X-ray glitches in single-crystal optics, increasing the efficiency of refractive optics. The approach is based on accurate simulation and prediction of glitches, allowing researchers to tune their work at modern X-ray sources.
A study published in European Heart Journal found that patients with cardiovascular risk factors are more likely to experience severe outcomes from COVID-19. The research highlights the potential benefits of promoting heart health as a strategy to improve COVID-19 outcomes.
A new study by researchers at MIT's Picower Institute advances understanding of how a mammalian brain enables visual recognition memory. As novel patterns become familiar, the transition is marked by stark changes in the visual cortex, including a shift from gamma rhythms to lower frequency beta rhythms.
Researchers have developed a computational tool to better understand and manage the conversion process in fuel cells, which convert hydrogen and oxygen into water. The new models exceed the accuracy of current quantum methods by over 10 times and enable predictive simulations of complex reactions.
New research from Imperial College London found that warmer temperatures and higher population density contribute to SARS-CoV-2 transmission. However, policy interventions such as lockdowns and social distancing remain the most important drivers of disease spread, even in seasonal variations.
Researchers have found that summer rainfall on the Tibetan Plateau is highly predictable on multiyear timescales using large ensemble predictions. The study reveals a substantial underestimation of the predictable signal in state-of-the-art decadal prediction models.
Researchers at Staffordshire University have developed a novel, low-cost method to detect foot ulcer risk without electronic sensors. This new technique uses 3D-printed structures to identify areas with high pressure, enabling clinicians to prescribe custom footwear or insoles.
University of Queensland researchers have created a quantum microscope that can see biological structures impossible to detect with traditional light-based microscopes. The device uses quantum entanglement to provide 35% improved clarity without destroying cells, enabling minute biological structure observation.
Researchers discovered that a byproduct of cholesterol metabolism, 27-hydroxycholesterol, induces the production of extracellular vesicles that promote breast tumor growth and metastasis. The study found that these vesicles carry signaling molecules that spur estrogen-responsive cancer cells to proliferate and grow.
A new review by UC Davis researchers provides guidelines for growers to utilize machines in pruning, canopy management, and harvesting. Machines can save up to 80% of labor costs per acre and improve grape quality, particularly when used for mechanical canopy management.
University of Pennsylvania researchers discovered a correlation between childhood stress and earlier molar eruption, with lower-income children experiencing an earlier onset. The study used a novel rating system to measure tooth development, showing that adverse childhood experiences also predict earlier molar eruption.
A study of organic residues on ceramic pottery from rural and urban Sicily during the 9th to 12th century AD reveals a diverse range of vegetables, fruits, beeswax, and animal food products. The findings are consistent with Arabic literature's colorful dishes and highlight regional differences in cuisine preferences and ceramics use.
A study by RUDN University found that magnesium-vitamin B6 supplementation can alleviate painful symptoms and improve quality of life for pregnant women and those with hormone-related conditions. The treatment reduced the risk of miscarriage, high blood pressure, and other associated health issues.
Researchers create an integrated cathode with 3D porous honeycomb-like CoN-Ni3N/N-C nanosheets, enhancing conductivity and active sites. The resulting supercapacitor achieves remarkable energy density and cycle stability, enabling high-energy-density flexible wearable electronics.
Early amphibians that adapted to terrestrial life had shorter, more curved intercentra, while aquatic species maintained morphologies similar to their ancestors' land-dwelling counterparts. The study's findings contradict earlier notions of what spinal morphologies enabled successful movement on land.
Researchers at National Institutes of Natural Sciences have developed an Advanced Multi-Step Brazing (AMSB) technique to jointly fabricate components made of oxide dispersion strengthened copper alloy. The new technique enables the creation of a heat removal component with excellent heat removal performance, surpassing existing records.
A deep neural network model accurately predicts brain age with a mean absolute error of 4.6 years based on EEG data, and its results show correlations with diseases such as epilepsy, stroke, and sleep-disordered breathing. The study suggests that these conditions are associated with deviations in predicted age from chronological age.
Duke University engineers developed a prototype X-ray scanner that can reveal molecular composition of objects, revolutionizing cancer surgery, pathology, drug inspection, and geology. The technology can accurately diagnose cancerous tissues and analyze pharmaceuticals in real-time.
The newly discovered exoplanet, TOI-1231 b, has a substantial atmosphere making it an attractive target for atmospheric studies. Its similarity in size and density to Neptune suggests it may have a large, gaseous atmosphere.
Research suggests that Nintendo Wii therapy can significantly improve balance in children with cerebral palsy, even when combined with conventional physical therapy. The analysis found medium to large effects of the therapy on functional balance and dynamic balance, respectively.
Research shows that Native Americans and Alaska Natives have the highest prevalence of migraine and headache disorders, while Black men receive the least care. The article proposes solutions to address these disparities through clinical strategies, professional training, and research initiatives.
Researchers found a novel biomarker indicating resilience to chronic stress in the brain, which is largely absent in people suffering from major depressive disorder. This absence is associated with pessimism in daily life and reduced adaptive responses to stress.
A new study examines COVID-19 among patients receiving home dialysis, finding that these patients are equally vulnerable to infection as in-center dialysis patients. The study also highlights the devastating mortality rate among home dialysis patients, emphasizing the importance of vaccination and public health precautions.
Research found nearly 20% of patients with unexplained sudden cardiac death carried rare genetic variants that raised their risk. Genetic screening may have prevented deaths if doctors knew about the genetic predisposition to heart disease.
A new study found that alcoholic men and women respond differently to their disease, with distinct levels of brain activity and abnormalities. The researchers suggest that clinicians should approach different prevention and treatment strategies for men and women.
A nearly 2,500-adult study found that difficulty falling asleep as compared to other insomnia symptoms predicts cognitive decline 14 years later. Regular screening for insomnia may help identify individuals at risk for cognitive impairments.
A recent experiment by Prof. YAN Xingbin's group reveals that an external magnetic field can induce capacitance change in aqueous acidic and alkaline electrolytes but not in neutral electrolytes, providing insight into ion transport behavior.
Scientists from University of Melbourne and University of Queensland have explained echidna's reproductive enigma, detailing testes that never descend or scrotum. The short-beaked echidna has a remarkable penis with four heads, which are functional in alternating erections.
Cells introduce hundreds of DNA DSBs to facilitate genetic recombination, but researchers found that approximately 20% of breaks correspond to closely positioned pairs of DSBs, which can initiate recombination at chromosome gaps
7.58% of children in Spain suffer from SLI, a disorder affecting language acquisition and social development. The new Spanish-speaking Association will lay foundations for research consensus and collaboration.
A new study led by WCS has updated the global population estimate for Critically Endangered Grauer's gorillas to 6,800 individuals from a previous estimate of 3,800. The findings provide hope for the conservation of this subspecies in eastern DRC.
A new analysis found that post-heart transplant survival among older patients is on par with younger recipients. The study included 37,135 patients and showed a significant improvement in mortality rates after adjusting for other factors, suggesting that advanced age should not be a contraindication for heart transplantation.
Purdue University engineers have developed battery-free wearable technology using silk-based coils and hydrophobic molecules for easy cleaning. These smart clothes can be used underwater, washed in conventional machines and are flexible and breathable like conventional cotton T-shirts.
Researchers discover moths have evolved acoustic metamaterials on their wings to absorb ultrasound, outsmarting bats. This adaptation decreases echo return and enhances insect survival, with scales tuned to different frequencies forming a broadband absorption array.
Groundbreaking algorithms developed for MicroBooNE detector filter out cosmic ray tracks, pinning down elusive neutrino interactions. This work demonstrates crucial ability to eliminate cosmic ray backgrounds, critical for future U.S. neutrino research program.
A new study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology found that only a minority of patients with knee osteoarthritis used non-surgical care such as physical therapy and knee injections. The study suggests that surgery may be more commonly substituted for conservative care in regions with high rates of knee replacements.
A new statewide study in Michigan found that smokers needed their blocked arteries fixed nearly a decade earlier than non-smokers, with patients with obesity undergoing procedures four years earlier than non-obese patients. The study suggests that preventing smoking and obesity could delay the onset of heart disease.
UT Extension has received grants from the USDA to combat low vaccination rates in high-risk counties across Tennessee. The initiatives aim to correct misinformation and strengthen vaccine norms through local partnerships and social media outreach.
Researchers have created a system called PrivacyMic that uses ultrasonic sound frequencies to identify household and office activities, with greater than 95% accuracy. This technology enables smart home systems to recognize services needed without recording audible speech.
Researchers develop Composite Urban Quietness Index to measure sound diversity of quietness, aiming to provide a new understanding of comfortable quiet. The study reveals that high-intensity sound and silent acoustic environments can cause stress, highlighting the need for quantifiable characteristics of quietness.
A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that many adults with a history of cardiovascular disease continue to use tobacco products, despite being aware of the increased risk. The research revealed that only 2% of smokers with CVD quit using tobacco over a period of five years.
A phase 2 trial found that a single one-hour treatment with nitrous oxide can relieve symptoms of treatment-resistant depression for several weeks. The study showed significant improvements in depression symptoms, with a four-fold lower risk of adverse effects at lower concentrations.
A breakthrough study published in Frontiers in Psychiatry shows that individual brain networks develop within the first month of life, predicting unique infant temperament traits. Researchers found greater connectivity between frontal and parietal regions linked to improved behavioral regulation in infants.
A study published by UTHealth found that as rideshare usage increased, so did a decrease in motor vehicle-related trauma and impaired driving convictions. The age group under 30 showed the most significant reduction in motor vehicle-related traumas.
Scientists at the Paul Scherrer Institute have developed a new experimental method to investigate the ageing process of vanadium phosphorus oxides (VPO) catalysts. The method allows for precise measurement of chemical properties in three dimensions, revealing changes in the material's structure and chemistry over time.
Dr. Sarah Goff's study examines the effects of Medicaid ACOs on asthma outcomes for children, aiming to improve pediatric asthma care and address social determinants of health. The research may inform other states considering ACO models for their Medicaid programs.
Research found that COVID-19 vaccines are safe for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), who experience chronic digestive symptoms. Most side effects were mild and short-lived, with gastrointestinal issues being the most common. IBD patients on biologic therapies reported even fewer side effects due to the modulating effect o...
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati found that poorly fitting face masks can double the infection risk to wearers and others, while custom-fitted masks greatly reduce this risk. The study used CT scans to measure gaps between faces and masks, revealing substantial leaks around the nose that compromise mask effectiveness.
Two types of coating made from new coordination polymers with silver effectively kill bacteria, including those that form biofilms. The most promising coating destroys 99.99% of bacteria, offering a breakthrough in antibiofilm applications.
The CHIME/FRB catalogue reveals significant differences between repeater and non-repeater FRBs, with repeaters emitting more focused radio frequencies and bursting repeatedly. The discovery provides clues about the properties of FRBs and potentially offers an independent measurement of matter distribution in the Universe.
UTA is launching a nationwide quantum education initiative for secondary teachers, capitalizing on familiar content areas in existing curricula. The three-year program will provide stipends, resources, and equipment for classrooms and student STEM camps.
A single treatment involving breathing in a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide significantly improved symptoms in people with treatment-resistant depression. Symptoms of depression improved rapidly following treatment, with benefits lasting for several weeks.
A study of 1,129 college students reveals that stronger self-efficacy beliefs lead to leadership roles for LGBQIQ individuals and increased achievement efforts among feminist-leaning women. Career counselors can use these findings to support students in achieving their occupational goals.
Researchers found that a single-shot COVID-19 vaccine generated strong immune responses against all SARS-CoV-2 variants. The study suggests non-neutralizing antibodies and T cell responses may contribute to protection against COVID-19, particularly in regions with variant prevalence.
A study found tiny deposits of elemental copper and iron in the brains of two deceased patients with Alzheimer's disease. The presence of these metallic elements, previously observed only in microorganisms, suggests a new aspect of metal neurochemistry.
A new study reveals that COVID-19 vaccination leads to strong T cell responses against the virus in all patients on dialysis, and nearly 58% of kidney transplant recipients. However, low antibody responses were observed in kidney transplant recipients, raising concerns about their protection from COVID-19.