A recent study found that up to a third of patients taking methotrexate had inadequate antibody levels after receiving the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. This is compared to healthy participants and those on other immunomodulatory drugs, who showed an adequate immune response.
Researchers at the University of North Carolina developed a data assimilation method to improve multi-day forecast accuracy of coastal water levels. The method yielded substantially smaller errors in water level estimates and is now used by NOAA's Extratropical Surge and Tide Operational Forecast System.
A new gene cluster in Staphylococcus epidermidis enables the bacteria to produce structures that allow them to attach to human cells and form a persistent infection. This discovery could lead to better treatments or vaccinations against methicillin-resistant S. aureus.
Researchers from the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience have discovered a small molecule that can be used to rejuvenate the brain and counteract memory loss in Alzheimer's disease. The molecule, microRNA-132, regulates adult hippocampal neurogenesis and is required for the neurogenic process in the adult hippocampus.
A new study found that couple cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is more effective than lidocaine in reducing women's fear of pain and improving their sexual experience. The therapy helps break the vicious cycle of fear and avoidance, allowing couples to refocus on pleasurable experiences.
A recent study found that conservation efforts have led to an increase in mountain gorilla population densities, which may raise their risk of infectious diseases. The research also discovered striking geographic differences in parasite infections across the entire range of the mountain gorilla.
A study at Massachusetts General Hospital has identified an enzyme that protects the brain from oxygen deprivation, leading to new potential therapies for strokes and brain injuries caused by cardiac arrest. The discovery was made serendipitously while researchers investigated techniques for inducing suspended animation.
A study found that Vitamin B6 deficiency is associated with social deficits, cognitive impairment, and hyperactivated noradrenergic systems in mice. Supplementing the brain with Vitamin B6 improved these abnormalities, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy for schizophrenia patients with Vitamin B6 deficiency.
The USPSTF recommends behavioral counseling interventions for promoting healthy weight gain and preventing excess gestational weight gain in pregnancy. Excess weight at the beginning of pregnancy is associated with adverse maternal and infant health outcomes, including cesarean delivery or preterm birth.
A team of UBC Okanagan researchers investigated the impact of pandemics on homeless populations, revealing a mortality rate five to 10 times higher compared to the general population. The study identified six key themes that affect the homeless, including education and outreach, screening and contact tracing, and treatment adherence.
A study found that viral particles remaining in the gut after COVID-19 can travel into the bloodstream, triggering a hyperinflammatory response and Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C). Researchers identified larazotide acetate as a potential treatment.
The NIH awarded $4.7 million to Dr. Amy Bastian's research on movement learning mechanisms and their impact on neurological damage. The study aims to develop tailored therapeutic training strategies for children with neurological conditions.
Researchers discovered that metabolites from fungi and bacteria biofilms can modulate gene expression associated with tumor growth and survival. The study found that these microorganisms can endanger homeostasis in normal and neoplastic oral epithelial cells, impairing cell viability and survival.
The National Foundation for Cancer Research has announced the winners of its 2021 Salisbury Award Competition, recognizing promising cancer research innovations. The first prize winner is TanoMed's technology training host immunity against a specific member of the carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule family, CEACAM5.
Researchers have developed a new technique using chemically-sensitive soft X-rays to analyze the internal structure, chemistry and environmental behavior of organic nanocarriers. This non-disruptive method allows for detailed analysis of nanocarrier properties, including their size, water-content and response to changing environments.
A new study suggests that engaging in recovery can help entrepreneurs reduce the negative impact of stress and improve well-being outcomes. The study proposes three recovery-intervention categories: Respite, Reappraisal, and Regimen, which recommend taking breaks, reframing thoughts on stress, and adding structure to recovery.
Chronic pancreatitis is a debilitating disease with poorly understood causative factors. Researchers at Osaka University identified disturbed molecular pathways and revealed underlying mechanisms that may inform effective therapy against the disease.
Researchers at Duke University have developed a machine learning platform that can identify activated neurons in videos faster and more accurately than current techniques. The technology enables researchers to watch an animal's brain activity in real-time as they behave, allowing for new insights into how the brain works.
Researchers designed a Cu-Pd bimetallic electrocatalyst that lowers the energy barrier of C2 product generation, resulting in a 50.3% C2 Faradaic efficiency. The catalyst exploits the benefits of both Cu (low energy barrier) and Pd (ultrafast kinetics), addressing CO2 conversion limitations.
The University of Minnesota Medical School is launching a new clinical trial to study the effectiveness of ivermectin, metformin, and fluvoxamine as potential treatments for COVID-19. The multi-site trial aims to prevent hospitalization and 'long COVID' in patients with COVID-19.
Researchers analyzed stable isotope analysis of skin, muscle, and bone tissue to study Sowerby's beaked whale spatial ecology. The results show that the species exhibits both short- and long-term habitat fidelity, with at least two subpopulations in the eastern and western Atlantic.
Researchers found that a large earthquake could set off the eruption of Hawaii's Mauna Loa volcano by relieving stress from magma influx, generating additional pressure and buoyancy. The study also identified movements along near-horizontal faults under the flanks as essential features of long-term volcano growth.
Researchers have shown that CRISPR-Cas components are physically linked, enabling efficient updates of immune memory when infected by mutant viruses. This link allows bacteria to efficiently adapt and interfere with viral infections.
A NIH-funded study found that taking 1,000 mg of DHA daily in pregnancy was associated with a lower rate of early preterm birth. Women with low DHA levels at study entry showed the greatest reduction in early preterm birth rates.
A Stanford bioengineer has developed peptide-like molecules called peptoids that can retain therapeutic properties against viruses, offering a new approach to treating infectious diseases. The peptoids work by disrupting the virus's outer membrane, making them promising antiviral agents.
The IFSS portal offers over 100 innovative solutions to improve nutrition, restore the environment, and promote social equity. It provides a platform for collaboration and access to information about game-changing solutions.
Birds and bats avoid habitat swamped with loud whitewater river noise, with overlap between background noise and song frequency predicting bird declines. The study found that increased noise levels lead to decreased bird foraging efficiency and a shift in bat hunting behavior.
Researchers have developed a prognostic and therapeutic epigenetic biomarker for PDAC patients, predicting which are likely to benefit from traditional chemotherapy. The technology addresses a pressing clinical need by introducing the first ever epigenetic precision medicine approach to pancreatic cancer.
A Boston Children's Hospital study using neuroimaging data from nearly 6,000 early adolescents found that regular physical activity was associated with more efficiently organized, flexible, and robust brain networks. Physical activity also partially offset the effects of unhealthy body mass index (BMI) on brain circuitry.
A recent study provides valuable insights into how adults can navigate the often awkward experience of moving back in with their parents. Key findings include framing the decision as an investment in the future, clearly defined expectations, contributing to the household, laying out intended timelines, and embodying adult behavior.
A dental school researcher has received FDA approval to begin clinical trials for a new cancer therapy using a protein found in an oral bacterium. The treatment, Leukothera, rapidly kills cancer cells without compromising the immune system, offering a potential alternative to existing treatments.
A retrospective cohort study found that autonomous cortisol secretion is associated with a 2- to 3-fold increased risk of death and cardiovascular disease in patients with adrenal incidentalomas. Researchers recommend treating known cardiovascular risk factors and incorporating findings into treatment decisions, including surgery.
A study by UC San Diego scientists reveals that extreme heat and elevated ozone levels have a disproportionate impact on low-income ZIP codes in California. Areas with higher unemployment rates and car traffic are more affected, with increased hospitalizations for respiratory issues.
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have created sterile male mosquitoes using CRISPER/Cas9, a technique that could suppress Aedes aegypti populations. The study found that the mutant males produced no sperm but still suppressed female fertility, making them effective in controlling mosquito populations.
Scientists at Osaka University employ machine learning algorithms to assess the remaining useful life of mechanical rolling bearings, which may lead to industrial cost savings and fewer discarded parts. The new method improves prediction accuracy by about 32%.
A recent qualitative study identified facilitators for rehabilitation care of individuals with spatial neglect, including the importance of family support, interdisciplinary collaboration, and continuous treatment. Experts also highlighted the need for therapists to engage patients and their families in therapy to improve outcomes.
The USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center has formed partnerships with the Lazarex Cancer Foundation to create Cancer Wellness HUBs in Los Angeles, addressing health disparities through community engagement and education. The initiative aims to provide vital resources and support services for cancer patients and their families.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that a game-based program increased physical activity levels among diabetes patients by an average of 503 steps per day. The program used wearable devices and digital scales with personalized goals to encourage competition, collaboration, or support from family members.
Researchers at The Lundquist Institute have solved the long-standing debate on gamete and embryo transport within the Fallopian tube. Motile cilia are essential for oocyte pickup, while disruptions lead to female infertility and ectopic pregnancy.
The acylfulvene alkylating agent LP-184 demonstrates highly potent anticancer activity in NSCLC cell lines, correlating with PTGR1 transcript levels. It targets tumors regardless of co-occurring mutations but is especially effective in KEAP1 mutant settings.
Forensic archaeologists from Cranfield University are recovering the bodies of victims executed by the Franco regime during the Spanish Civil War. The team, working with partners and social anthropologists, aims to exhume and identify the remains of 26 people buried in a civil cemetery between 1939-1940.
Two invasive beachgrass species introduced to the Pacific Northwest are hybridizing, altering the region's dune-building ecosystem. The new hybrid combines traits from both parent species, with the potential to impact coastline stability and biodiversity.
Researchers found that excess pericardial fat increases the risk of heart failure, even after adjusting for established risk factors. High pericardial fat volume was associated with a double increase in risk for women and a 50% increase for men, according to the study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
Researchers found that people who had mild COVID-19 developed antibody-producing cells that can last a lifetime. These cells will continue to produce antibodies against the virus even after infection has resolved.
Scientists at JAIST explored the connection between game-playing search tree algorithms and human decision-making, proposing two indicators - PPN and SCN - to analyze potential future states. These findings have applications in AI, optimization problems, and entertainment analysis.
Dr Martin White's research proposes a two-phase expansion system that can generate up to 28% more power than conventional single-phase systems. The study aims to enhance the performance of Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) systems for waste heat recovery, reducing environmental footprint in industries such as iron and steel, food, and drink.
A new study co-authored by UMass researcher Andy Danylchuk warns that advances in recreational fishing technology can have significant impacts on fish ecosystems. The study emphasizes the need for resource management agencies to share their experiences and for scientists to intensively study the effects of technological innovations.
Researchers successfully implemented a headstarting method to protect juvenile bridled nailtail wallabies from feral cats, resulting in an 89% survival rate. The technique involves fencing off areas to raise young animals until they are large enough to be released back into the wild, demonstrating its effectiveness as a cost-effective ...
The SeaCURE method utilizes natural processes and renewable energy to remove CO2 from seawater, allowing the ocean to absorb more CO2. The process involves making seawater temporarily acidic to 'bubble out' CO2, then delivering a concentrated stream for utilisation and storage.
A new study found that the brain's neural representation of a familiar face strengthens faster when viewing someone in person. The type of exposure affected how much the signal changed, with in-person interactions strengthening it the most.
A new study on the 25 million-year-old fossil skull of Aetiocetus weltoni reveals that it had both teeth and baleen in adulthood. The discovery provides evidence of a major shift in feeding behavior from raptorial carnivory to filter-feeding, and sheds light on the evolution of modern baleen whales.
Researchers at UC Riverside developed an implantable drug delivery system using piezoelectric nanofibers that can release therapeutic molecules on demand. The system offers robust control over release rate and precision in administering drug molecules, making it suitable for treating chronic diseases.
Researchers found that urine protein biomarkers IL-1α, IL-1ra, and IL-8 can distinguish bladder cancer from controls with high accuracy. These markers also show promise in discriminating between different stages of the disease.
A recent study found that successful weight losers sit significantly less during the week and weekends compared to those who are weight stable. Weight loss maintainers expended more calories per week in physical activity, suggesting that moving more may be key to long-term weight maintenance.
A new study reveals that telomeres shorten rapidly during early childhood, setting the stage for lifelong health outcomes. Researchers found that a mother's telomere length is predictive of her child's telomere length through pre-adolescence.
A study by Brown University found that school boards can increase civic engagement and public trust by incorporating two-way conversations with citizens. This approach, particularly among people of color and low-income households, can lead to increased attendance at meetings and a more inclusive representation of constituents.
The researchers proposed five strategies to address colonial legacies in ecology: decolonizing the mind, understanding history, increasing access to information, recognizing diverse expertise, and establishing inclusive teams. These strategies aim to challenge biases and promote a more ethical approach to ecological research.
A study analyzing California data from 2004-2013 reveals that heat events and ozone have substantial spatial variation in their impact on respiratory hospitalizations, with stronger joint effects in lower-income areas. The results suggest establishing local temperature and ozone thresholds to protect population health.
Wildland management must adapt to unprecedented ecosystem changes due to climate change, invasive species, and land use conversion. Scientists from the Rocky Mountain Research Station suggest a more inclusive governance model to improve collaboration and learning.
A clinical study found that injecting a protein GAD into lymph nodes can be effective in preserving insulin production in individuals with the HLA-DR3-DQ2 variant. This subgroup accounts for around half of patients with type 1 diabetes, who may benefit from a potential new treatment to slow or stop the immune system's attack.