A modeling study suggests that digital contact tracing can significantly reduce COVID-19 outbreaks if a significant portion of the population adopts a contact tracing app. With 20% adoption, cases decrease by 35%, while higher adoption rates lead to further reductions.
A new review by the University of Surrey highlights the most effective techniques for collecting airborne pathogens, particularly viruses, using cyclone sampling methods. Harvard impactor samplers are also found to be suitable for capturing fine and ultrafine particles for toxicity assessments.
Researchers at Penn State developed FairGNN, a novel framework that estimates sensitive attributes to reduce bias in graph neural networks. The model maintains high performance on node classification using limited user-supplied information while reducing bias.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have determined the structure of protein fibrils linked to Lou Gehrig's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. The findings provide clues on how toxic proteins clump and spread between nerve cells in the brain, potentially leading to the development of new treatments.
A high-resolution protein architecture of the budding yeast genome was mapped using ChIP-exo, revealing two distinct gene regulatory architectures. The study identifies a surprisingly small number of unique protein assemblages used repeatedly across the yeast genome, expanding the traditional model of gene regulation.
A new paradigm of liquid gating technology is presented, confining magnetic colloids in a porous matrix to probe mechanical properties in real-time. The system shows controllable fluid transport behavior, enabling applications such as dynamic and preprogrammed fluid transport, remote drug release, and microfluidic logic.
A computational guide to lead cells down desired differentiation paths uses a novel computer-guided design tool to predict effective combinations of transcription factors. The approach significantly increases the efficiency of cell conversions, generating higher numbers of immune cells and skin cells than other methods.
Researchers investigate using a cell-signaling chemokine from cats to treat human kidney fibrosis and slow disease progression. The study suggests that intra-renal injection of CXCL12 may be a potential therapy for early kidney disease, offering new hope for millions with the condition.
The new supplement offers practical recommendations for managing hospitalized COVID-19 patients in low- and middle-income countries, addressing critical care challenges. The articles provide valuable insights into infection prevention, diagnostic testing, therapeutics, and rehabilitation measures.
George Mason University researchers Cing-Dao Kan and Dhafer Marzougui received funding to conduct modeling and simulation analyses, as well as vehicle crash impact tests for highway safety research. The project will support roadside safety research and outdoor laboratory operations until late February 2024.
A recent study found that rising temperatures negatively impact rice yields, even for varieties bred to withstand heat. The study used 50 years of weather and rice-yield data from farms in the Philippines, revealing a 'yield gap' between breeding trials and farm performance.
A study found that women are more likely to experience delayed diagnosis and misdiagnosis of chest pain, which is a key symptom of reduced blood flow to the heart. Women were also less likely to be suspected of having a heart attack than men, with lower rates of probable acute coronary syndrome in females.
Researchers at Imperial College London have developed a new fire suppressant that can kill zombie fires 40% faster than using water alone. The agent reduces surface tension and acts thermally to encapsulate the fire, bringing down temperature and removing heat from the fire triangle.
A global climate dynamic study suggests that shifts in the Southern Hemisphere westerly wind belt can trigger rapid, global changes in atmospheric temperature. This 'Zealia Switch' mechanism relates to ocean currents and heat engine releases, influencing glacier growth.
Researchers created a tool that uses light reflection analysis to identify deepfake photos, achieving 94% accuracy. The technique exploits differences in reflected light patterns between real and fake images, providing a promising solution to combat deepfakes.
A joint effort by Pitt bioengineer and orthopaedic surgeon aims to improve surgical outcomes for capsular injuries, potentially leading to a more effective treatment. The study uses quantitative techniques to measure injury magnitude and location, with the goal of reducing failure rates and improving patient recovery.
The ADAR1p110 isoform regulates genome stability at chromosome ends, preventing R-loop accumulation and preserving telomere stability. In cancer cells, depletion of ADAR1p110 leads to extensive telomeric DNA damage and arrested proliferation.
A new study proves the fundamental feasibility of using AI to assess surgical skills, achieving 87% accuracy in identifying good or moderate surgical skill. The innovative three-stage approach uses computer algorithms to analyze instrument movement and correlate with expert ratings.
A team of researchers has reconstructed the formation of a newly emerged protein in flies, essential for male fertility. The study reveals that species form new proteins de novo without related precursor proteins, with beneficial functions emerging after millions of years.
Researchers have developed Immuno-PET, a technique that visualizes changes in different cancer receptors within tumors during targeted therapies, enabling early evaluation of treatment effectiveness and prediction of response. This can help physicians select the most effective treatment for patients with cancer.
Astronomers have studied the rare RV Tauri variable U Monocerotis, a binary system with two stars orbiting within a sprawling disk of dust. The 130-year dataset reveals predictable brightness changes and X-ray emissions.
Researchers found that adolescents with autism exhibit greater brain activity during proactive executive control tasks, suggesting a unique approach rather than impairment. The study also revealed enhanced connectivity between regions associated with reactive control processes in individuals with autism.
Researchers found that neutralizing antibodies from COVID-19 vaccines are less effective against new variants, including those from South Africa and Brazil. The study suggests that mutations in the spike protein may contribute to the variants' resistance.
A multiyear workplace health promotion program was shown to prevent health risks among working-age individuals. The study found that participants remained at the same level or improved their rating, while only a small percentage deteriorated.
The study found that SARS-CoV-2 underwent little significant genetic change in the first year of the pandemic, suggesting a 'generalist' nature and rapid transmission. This is attributed to human population immunity and lack of containment, allowing the virus to spread quickly.
A study published in Science Advances has found rare evidence of the Earth's early magma ocean preserved in ancient rocks from southwestern Greenland. The discovery provides a window into the planet's solidification and internal chemistry, suggesting that other rocks may also preserve signs of ancient magma oceans.
Lee and collaborators investigate how local governments support diverse 311 uses during the pandemic. They analyze datasets using AI and statistical methods to understand changes in user patterns across six DMV jurisdictions.
Researchers found that poor sleep leads to increased signs of brain waste and post-concussive symptoms among veterans with traumatic brain injuries. A new technique developed at OHSU measures the brain's waste-clearance system through MRIs.
A study on rehabilitating an old mine waste rock pile found that a new technique can successfully restore vegetation and reduce toxicity risks. The technique involves classifying and managing excavation waste based on its geochemical properties to prevent acid drainage and contamination.
Scientists have discovered a natural signal molecule that stops the uncontrolled growth of malignant tumors and promotes the healing of injured nerve fibers. The molecule, EGFL8, is produced by Schwann cells in benign neuroblastomas and stimulates tumor cell maturation, leading to better survival rates for patients.
A new study by scientists at Temple University identifies a promising novel therapeutic strategy targeting G protein-coupled receptor kinase 5 (GRK5) in the heart. Reducing GRK5 levels improves survival following heart attack in mice, suggesting that GRK5 inhibition may be a viable treatment option for human patients.
Researchers investigated acute COVID-19 symptoms and depressive symptoms in adults, finding a significant association between the two. The study suggests that individuals experiencing acute COVID-19 symptoms may be at increased risk of developing depressive symptoms.
A new study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that CT colonography with a 10 mm threshold is the most effective and efficient non-invasive screening test for colorectal cancer prevention and detection. This method targets advanced neoplasia while reducing unnecessary colonoscopies compared to other tests.
A new class of nanomaterials made from perovskite have improved the efficiency of quantum dots, allowing for brighter displays and more efficient electronics. By analyzing the interactions between bright and dark states, researchers were able to verify energy alignment and make discoveries regarding electron behavior.
A recent study analyzed national claims data to examine changes in well-child care visits with out-of-pocket costs before and after the Affordable Care Act. The research found that passage of the ACA led to a significant increase in well-child visits, likely due to increased health insurance coverage.
A study of nearly 35,000 participants found that financial strain is a significant predictor of future homelessness, with severe mental illness also being a major risk factor. The research suggests that addressing financial well-being could be a key component in preventing homelessness.
The Antikythera Mechanism, a 2,000-year-old device used to predict astronomical events, has a newly recreated gearing system that conforms to physical evidence and matches descriptions on the Mechanism. The team recovered cycles for all planets using an ancient Greek mathematical method.
Researchers at Tufts University created light-activated composite devices that execute precise movements and form complex shapes without wires or energy. The technology enables self-aligning solar cells, soft robots and other smart systems responsive to illumination.
Researchers compared rates of psychotropic drug prescriptions during adolescence and young adulthood between individuals born preterm and at term. Individuals born preterm were found to have higher rates of psychotropic drug prescriptions, suggesting a potential long-term impact on mental health.
A new study led by University of Maryland researchers found that DNA from tissue samples can be used to accurately predict the age of bats in the wild. The study showed age-related changes to DNA are different between long-lived and short-lived bat species, especially near genes associated with cancer and immunity.
The European Lung Cancer Virtual Congress 2021 will showcase new perspectives in treating small cell lung cancer and mesothelioma, as well as management options for non-small cell lung cancer. More than 200 studies will be presented, with a focus on immunotherapy and lung cancer prevention.
A machine learning algorithm has been shown to accurately predict adult patients at risk of attempting or experiencing suicidal thoughts. The Vanderbilt Suicide Attempt and Ideation Likelihood (VSAIL) model uses routine health records to identify those who should receive further screening, potentially directing limited resources where ...
A new study published in Frontiers in Marine Science demonstrates that oil in the ocean can undergo photooxidation, a process that breaks down crude oil into persistent compounds. This process occurs within hours to days and reduces the effectiveness of chemical dispersants used to clean up spills.
Researchers found evidence of malaria in ancient hunter-gatherer skeletons in Vietnam dated to approximately 7000 years ago. This discovery changes the entire understanding of the relationship between humans and malaria, suggesting that the disease was a threat to human groups long before farming.
Duke Lemur Center successfully replicates wild hibernation conditions, revealing insights into metabolic disorders and aging. The study's findings have significant implications for human health, particularly in the development of new treatments for heart attacks and strokes.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health found that children's preventive healthcare costs decreased dramatically under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The proportion of checkups with out-of-pocket costs dropped from 54.2% in 2010 to 14.5% in 2018.
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine found that cancer cells can dodge chemotherapy by entering a state of hibernation, or senescence, which enables them to survive aggressive treatments. This discovery has implications for developing new drug combinations that could block senescence and make chemotherapy more effective.
New research from Washington University in St. Louis reveals that school closures disproportionately affect mothers' labor force participation, with a 23 percentage point gap in some states. Mothers' work attachment fell more significantly than fathers', and the gender gap is expected to have long-lasting effects on lifetime earnings.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that reducing apolipoprotein CIII levels can protect against high-fat diet-induced obesity, insulin resistance and liver damage. The study showed that a treatment targeting apoCIII reversed metabolic derangements in mice.
Researchers using the New Vacuum Solar Telescope observed a significant acceleration of magnetic reconnection due to propagating disturbances caused by filament eruptions. The study, published in The Astrophysical Journal, found that these disturbances led to shorter and brighter current sheets with increased reconnection rates.
The research team used laser spectroscopy to define the physics of trapped carriers in organic metal halide perovskite films. By analyzing the photocurrent, they identified defects that reduce efficiency, ultimately leading to increased performance and lower costs for solar cells and other devices.
Scientists at the University of Innsbruck have created a method to individually address quantum emitters using chirped light pulses, enabling precise control over individual superconducting quantum bits and atoms in various electromagnetic structures. This approach has far-reaching implications for quantum computing and simulation.
Researchers found that exposure to brominated flame retardants can cause premature development of the mammary glands, increasing the risk of breast cancer. The study, led by Professor Isabelle Plante, suggests that young women exposed to BFRs in utero and through breastfeeding are now at higher risk for breast cancer.
A University of Delaware professor is developing new, resilient adhesives for concrete structures by mimicking mussel adhesion. The goal is to improve the durability of concrete in harsh environments and support sustainable growth, enabling prefabricated construction and additive manufacturing.
Scientists from KIT's Institute of Microstructure Technology and Light Technology Institute have developed a new model to calculate photoluminescence quantum efficiency of perovskite films. The results reveal that the actual efficiency is significantly lower than previously estimated, with an estimated 78% compared to predicted 90%. Th...
A research team studied glaciers and landforms in the Ethiopian Highlands, finding that tropical mountains cooled less than expected. The team mapped moraine boulders and dated them to determine past glaciations, revealing that glaciers reached their maximum extent between 40,000 and 30,000 years ago.
Scientists at Osaka University fabricated nanopores in silicon dioxide that can prevent particles from entering by applying a voltage. The technology may enable the development of single-particle sensors and next-generation DNA sequencing technology.
The ACS Spring 2021 meeting will feature nearly 9,000 presentations on various subjects including COVID-19 lessons learned, health and medicine, renewable energy and fuels, sustainability, and more. Keynote speakers will focus on cutting-edge developments in bio-based plastics, machine biology, and Macromolecular Chemistry.
A new study found that sea-level rise is causing wastewater to flood into coastal waters in urban Honolulu, leading to negative impacts on water quality and ecological health. The study used chemical tracers to detect groundwater discharge and wastewater, revealing that both are occurring today due to tidal influences.
The new technology minimizes hardware limitations, enabling continued increases in computing speed and scale. Toshiba expects the new scale-out approach to bring significant benefits to financial transactions and robotics industries.