An international research team has discovered a new molecule, ananatosides, produced by non-pathogenic bacteria Pantoea ananatis, which could potentially replace harmful rhamnolipid molecules. The team's findings aim to address the health risks associated with growing pathogenic bacteria on a large scale.
A new analysis of over 7,300 Australian users of dating websites found that men and women prioritize similar traits in their sexual attraction, but to varying degrees. Physical build, attractiveness, and personality are highly important across both sexes, with women placing greater emphasis on age, education, and emotional connection.
The 'Looking for Cowslips' campaign has started successfully, collecting data on the spring flower Primula veris and its populations across Europe. Over 120,000 cowslip observations have been recorded so far.
Case Western Reserve researchers have identified a potential new approach to controlling epileptic seizures by stabilizing the sodium channel through neddylation. This finding, published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation, offers hope for future research and potential drug development to prevent epilepsy.
Despite its commitment to tackling carbon emissions, Wellcome's £28 billion endowment holds significant stakes in fossil fuels. The charity has refused divestment despite criticism and the success of other institutions that have made similar moves.
A new study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that chronic exposure to second-hand smoke results in lower body weight and cognitive impairments, particularly affecting males. Researchers used a specially designed 'smoking robot' to expose mice to cigarette smoke over 10 months.
A recent study suggests that COVID-19 may cause myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) in young people. Three case studies reviewed by Johns Hopkins Medicine found ME/CFS-like symptoms within two weeks of illness, with all patients meeting criteria for the condition six months later.
Artificial cilia powered by a rotating magnetic field move liquids around cells or propel soft robots with unprecedented efficiency. The researchers developed microscale cilia that mimic natural wave-like movements, producing faster pumping speeds and better control over flow rates.
A study published in PLOS Biology highlights the importance of diverse conservation strategies to maximize regional biodiversity and maintain ecosystem services. Researchers found distinct groups of species in 'Strictly Protected' areas compared to 'Restricted' and 'Non-Protected' sites.
Researchers have developed color-changing threads that turn bright pink in the presence of Candida albicans, a common cause of yeast infections. These threads can be embedded in tampons or sanitary napkins to allow women to quickly and discreetly self-diagnose vulvovaginal yeast infections.
Research found that treatments with 6-mercaptopurine and/or 5-azacitidine do not reverse epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, but instead sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapeutic drugs. This approach has potential for inhibiting highly resistant triple-negative breast cancer cells.
Researchers used base editing to introduce a single point mutation in the PCSK9 gene, reducing LDL cholesterol levels by up to two-thirds. This precision technology holds promise for treating inherited metabolic liver diseases.
Researchers used computational modeling to assess the biological significance of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein mutations. The study identified 'mutation hotspots' that enhance binding to human cells and evade antibodies, contributing to rapid spread of new variants.
A study conducted in Brazil found that a cognitive-behavioral approach to treatment can significantly yield weight loss and improve quality of life. The program was shown to be effective in increasing quality of life in all domains, physical, psychological, social, and environmental, while reducing symptoms of depression.
A 15-year study on wild bees in Michigan found a 61% decline in bee numbers due to extreme warm temperatures in spring 2012, with some species recovering while others declined. The research emphasizes the importance of long-term monitoring and protecting these essential insects for food systems.
A team of researchers used computational biology and leading-edge experiments to study alpha-synuclein, a protein linked to Parkinson's disease. They found stable conformations that can form complexes with other biomolecules, offering possibilities for developing drugs to regulate the protein's function.
A predictive model has been developed to identify pediatric patients at risk of developing blood clots or venous thromboembolisms. The model includes 11 risk factors and has been validated on over 44,000 separate admissions. In a trial called CLOT, the model is being used to inform personalized prevention plans for high-risk patients.
Researchers developed an AI tool called BRAILS to simulate risks to cities using crowdsourced data, neural networks, and supercomputers. The tool automatically identifies building characteristics and detects hazards like earthquakes, hurricanes, or tsunamis.
A new study found that blocking ABCB10 protein in liver cells protects against insulin resistance and fatty liver disease. Increased bilirubin content inside mitochondria driven by ABCB10 activity contributes to fatty liver disease. The findings could inspire the development of therapies targeting ABCB10 or mitochondrial bilirubin.
A new study by Texas A&M researchers found significant decreases in childhood vaccination rates in Texas during the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccination rates declined by 47% for 5-month-old children and 58% for 16-month-old children, with rural locations experiencing greater declines than urban areas.
Children who undergo adenotonsillectomy surgery to treat sleep disorders experience improved sleep quality and quality of life. However, their behavior remains unchanged. The study suggests that parents may be reassured by post-operative improvements in behavior due to factors such as increased family sleep and reduced parental worry.
The Children's Tumor Foundation has announced revised diagnostic criteria for neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), which aim to improve the accuracy and earlier diagnosis of the condition. The updated criteria also cover Legius syndrome and mosaic NF, with further updates expected for NF2 and schwannomatosis.
A study published in British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that potentially inappropriate prescribing is associated with functional decline, falls and hospital admissions. Decision support tools can help reduce medication-related harm, but comprehensive assessment of medication use during care transitions is crucial.
A new study published in Nature Medicine proposes that microbes exist as networks, driving frequent flare-ups in patients with bronchiectasis. The research team analyzed over 400 respiratory samples and found negative interactions between microbes contributing to infection severity.
Scientists monitor two Ethiopian bird species, White-tailed Swallow and Ethiopian Bush-crow, to understand their response to climate change. The study found that both species are at severe risk of extinction in the next 50 years as their ranges become unsuitable for survival.
Researchers at NIST found that island scanning, a common method to mitigate residual stress in 3D-printing, is far from a silver bullet. The study used high-energy X-rays and detailed mapping to analyze the effects of different printing patterns on titanium alloy parts.
A team of scientists from Loyola University Chicago's Stritch School of Medicine have discovered a critical component for renewing the heart's molecular motor, which breaks down in heart failure. Restoring BAG3 levels could strengthen the heart as a potential treatment for heart failure.
Researchers at the Centre Spatial de Liège developed a method to identify and characterize stray light on space telescopes using femto-second pulsed lasers. This will improve the quality of images and develop more efficient space instruments.
A new study by UToledo researchers highlights the gap between digitally native but technologically illiterate students and the corporate world's need for technological literacy. The researchers recommend building proficiency in business software, having educators act as convener-not-conveyer of learning, and applying design thinking to...
Researchers analyzed four decades of data on American crocodiles in the Everglades, finding that high-salinity water has a negative impact on their health and survival. The study provides insight into the species' response to environmental changes.
The NAVIGATOR study showed that tezepelumab significantly reduced annualized asthma exacerbation rates across all eosinophil level subgroups, including a 70% reduction in EOS ?300. The therapy also prolonged the time to first exacerbation requiring hospitalization or ED visit.
A UBCO study reveals that kids who grow up in homes where parents consume cannabis are more likely to use it themselves. The research suggests that understanding parental influence can help develop effective prevention programs by addressing how youth think about substance use based on their familial and personal experiences.
A breakthrough study by Anglia Ruskin University experts suggests that cataract treatment could shift from surgery to drug therapy, offering exciting implications for public health. The research found the role of aquaporin proteins in lens development and highlights the potential for nanotechnologies to support drug-based therapies.
Researchers found that tree diversity does not shield trees from bark beetle infestation, and the risk is instead redistributed among species. Non-native tree species are initially less attacked due to unfamiliarity with beetles.
Researchers used seismic waves to monitor groundwater dynamics in high mountains, tracking changes in soil saturation and predicting runoff. The study provides valuable insights into the function of the vadose zone as a link between precipitation and groundwater reservoirs.
A new study reveals that small uveal melanomas have molecular genetic alterations, making them highly metastatic tumours. Prompt treatment can significantly increase the chances of cure for these patients.
A recent study published in JAMA Cardiology found that socioeconomic disadvantage is linked to a 57% higher rate of cardiovascular mortality among young individuals after experiencing a heart attack. The researchers analyzed the health records of over 2,000 patients who experienced an MI at or before age 50.
Deep pools below waterfalls are refuges for fish and aquatic animals during summer months when river temperatures become lethal. Waterfall jets can liquefy sediment, triggering debris flows that damage property and threaten lives. Researchers provided a new framework to predict plunge pool fill and evacuation patterns.
A University of Otago study found that the 1855 Wairarapa earthquake created an ecological opportunity for a previously South Island restricted seaweed species to colonize and establish itself in the North Island. This discovery highlights the potential of tectonic disturbance to shape biodiversity, including marine environments.
Understanding how tau protein is regulated in brain cells could lead to better treatments for Parkinson's and other neurological conditions. Researchers discovered that similar lncRNAs control the production of tau and other key proteins involved in brain function.
A recent study examines young athletes' knee health after returning to sport following ACL reconstruction. Young athletes who feel confident about their knee health are at a higher risk of experiencing a second ACL injury within 2 years.
Researchers at NTNU found that hospital robots were given social qualities by humans relating to them, transforming them into friendly, animal-like creatures. The robots' ability to interact with humans and follow pre-defined routes helped establish their personalities, making them relatable and endearing to staff and patients.
Research presented at ATS 2021 International Conference found that seniors eligible for Medicaid have 60% more disabilities compared to those without Medicaid. Dual Medicare-Medicaid status is associated with a 30% increase in post-ICU disabilities after adjusting for variables such as age and education.
A new study found that nearly a quarter of international students make their decision to stay or go before arriving in Canada, while the majority wait until after experiencing life here. Students cited family ties, employment opportunities, and feelings of isolation as key factors shaping their decisions.
A study published in the Journals of Gerontology: Series A found that a combination of low body mass index and high genetic risk for Alzheimer's disease predicts greater disease progression in men. The research suggests that lower BMI may be a consequence of neurodegeneration, rather than a preventive factor.
Carbon farming is gaining traction as a method to sequester carbon emissions and replenish soil nutrients, benefiting farmers and the environment. Companies are providing incentives for sustainable practices like low-till farming and planting cover crops.
A new study using tree ring samples found that Yellowstone's summers have been the hottest in the past 1,250 years, with the past 20 years being particularly extreme. The research provides crucial data for understanding the relationships between increasing temperatures and environmental factors.
Immature female and male orangutans direct their social attention to different types of individuals, acquiring sex-specific ecological knowledge. Females focus on local knowledge and skills, while males prefer immigrants with relevant ecological skills.
This study describes clinical characteristics and outcomes of adults with SARS-CoV-2 infection who developed multisystem inflammatory syndrome. Key findings include the prevalence of comorbidities and predictors of severe disease.
A nationwide cross-sectional study found that Parkinson's patients are more susceptible to severe COVID-19, with increased hospital mortality rates, especially in advanced age groups. The study highlights the need for optimal treatment of Parkinson's patients during the pandemic.
A global team has discovered that the nutritional quality of cereal grains varies substantially with location, posing a 'postcode lottery' to micronutrient deficiencies. The study found that some areas have much lower levels of essential nutrients like calcium and iron.
Research from QUT found that while both men and women prioritize attractiveness and physical build, women rate age, education, intelligence, income, trust, and emotion connection higher. As men and women age, their preferences come closer together, with both sexes placing greater importance on openness and trust.
Researchers found that palm oil plantations significantly increase aggressive interactions and reduce bonding behaviors in southern pig-tailed macaques. The study showed that the plantation edge provides a safe haven for social interactions, while the interior poses greater safety risks.
A retrospective study found increased axillary lymph node uptake on PET scans after COVID-19 vaccination, affecting 7.4% of FDG and 23.1% of 11C-choline PET examinations. Ipsilateral deltoid uptake was also observed in 14.5% of examinations.
The study found that invasive alien species cause substantial crop losses and economic costs, with the moth Phthorimaea absoluta affecting tomato plants and costing $4.1 billion per year in crop losses. Weeding cereal crops accounts for 72% of total weeding costs, totaling $26.2 billion annually.
Researchers use geological records to recreate the history of Larsen C Ice Shelf, finding that it has remained stable for the past 10,000 years. Despite this, the team warns that warmer ocean currents and atmospheric temperatures could lead to future collapse.
A study found six key factors that hinder people with bipolar disorder from taking their medication as prescribed. Patient beliefs and knowledge about the condition, as well as fear of addiction and lack of support from healthcare professionals, were among the factors identified.
A new study using high-resolution CT scanning reveals key relationships between cichlid morphology and behavior, enabling scientists to infer life history and characteristics of rare or extinct fishes. This technology will aid conservation efforts by characterizing the remaining fish species in Lake Malawi.
A new study suggests that invasive insect and animal species share similar challenges with human diseases, including pandemics. The research team proposes integrated approaches to prevent future pandemics and the spread of invasive species, combining ecology and medicine to improve prediction, prevention, treatment, and mitigation.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created a perfect storm for family violence, characterized by increased stress, trauma, and economic hardship. Experts warn that public health officials and mental health professionals must identify those at risk and provide support to mitigate this issue.