A new study warns that California's Central Valley groundwater may be unable to recover from past and future droughts, with less than a third recovered after the 2012-2016 drought. The researchers found that groundwater recovery times can be halved with modest caps on pumping in drought and post-drought years.
A study published in PLOS Computational Biology found that rodents have a greater diversity and accelerated rate of evolution in the ACE2 receptors used by SARS viruses. This suggests that some rodent species may be asymptomatic carriers of SARS-like coronaviruses, potentially leading to new pathogen transmission to humans.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 18, 2021
A study by Technical University of Munich found that major tech companies significantly underreported CO2 emissions from their value chain, with 50% of emissions omitted in 2019. The researchers developed a method to identify reporting gaps and estimated the omitted emissions at 751 megatons carbon dioxide equivalents.
Researchers at Stowers Institute for Medical Research discovered that Hox genes, known to orchestrate early development, continue to be expressed in adult tissues and are required for asexual reproduction in flatworms. The study suggests new roles of these genes in adulthood.
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and sedentary behavior significantly increase the risk of developing metabolic syndrome in non-obese individuals. Similar risk factors were identified for both obese and lean individuals, highlighting the importance of healthy ...
A recent study has found that while US suicide rates fell during the COVID-19 pandemic, a significant socio-economic gap persists, with vulnerable populations disproportionately affected. The researchers highlight the need for further research and social cohesion measures to mitigate pandemic-induced suicide risk in these communities.
A new study argues that the Justinianic Plague had a devastating impact on the Mediterranean world, and its effects were felt in England. Genetic discoveries suggest that bubonic plague may have reached England before its first recorded case in the Mediterranean, via a currently unknown route.
Researchers developed a simpler, greener method for producing Grignard reagents using environment-friendly paste-based technology. This new process drastically cuts down on the use of hazardous organic solvents and could lead to reduced production costs and environmental benefits.
Researchers warn of a potential long-term economic slowdown in developed democracies, driven by factors such as aging populations, shifts to services, and debt. The team proposes a 'guided civic revival' approach to address this challenge, combining grassroots forces with government participation to promote social solidarity and unity.
Researchers from UC Davis MIND Institute develop a home-based language testing method using telehealth, allowing Spanish-speaking parents to assess their children's language abilities. The study found the parent-led test to be feasible, reliable, and effective in both English and Spanish-speaking groups.
A recent study found that using consumer-grade wearable devices to track a child's heart rate and physical activity after surgery can help clinicians decide if at-home recovery is going as expected. The data from the wearables, coupled with parent reports, aids clinicians' decision-making and potentially prevents unnecessary ED visits.
Mass treatment with Ivermectin has halted the spread of river blindness in two Nigerian states, Plateau and Nasarawa, marking a major milestone in disease elimination efforts. Separate studies also show the potential for Ivermectin to reduce West Nile Virus transmission by mixing it into bird feed.
Gastric cancer is the sixth most common cancer worldwide, with 1.09 million new cases in 2020. Recent research offers hope for improved treatment options, making it a critical area of focus for medical oncologists like Dr. Mohamad Sonbol.
Researchers from SMART and TLL have developed a rapid Raman spectroscopy-based method to detect and quantify early bacterial infection in crops. This method enables non-invasive early diagnosis, which is crucial for plant disease management and agricultural productivity.
Scientists from Japan and Denmark discovered disordered one-dimensional chains in indium telluride, which exhibit ultralow thermal conductivity. This finding confirms the chemical and physical basis of low thermal conduction in thallium selenide-type materials, advancing thermoelectric power technologies.
Extreme heat events are associated with a greater risk of death from ischemic heart disease, stroke, and heart failure. Preventive strategies aim to reduce hyperthermia and dehydration to minimize cardiovascular risk during extreme heat events.
Research team discovered mRNA vaccines induce antibodies recognizing Spike and N protein fragments, potentially leading to misclassified breakthrough infections. The study suggests using multiple viral antigens for accurate detection of vaccine effectiveness.
Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers have developed a 3D map of blood vessels and stem cells in a mouse skull, revealing previously unknown niches for stem cell residence. The map provides precise locations of blood vessels and stem cells, which could be used to repair wounds and generate new bone tissue.
A recent study found that earthquakes and extreme rainfall lead to a significant increase in landslide rates in Nepal during the monsoon season. The research, published in Nature Communications, reveals that landscape damage caused by the April 2015 Gorkha earthquake increased landslide risk by six times.
A team of researchers from Hefei Institutes of Physical Science and University of Science and Technology developed a highly efficient magneto-tunable monochromatic THz generator. The new source utilizes a 2D ferromagnetic Cr2Ge2Te6 crystal, exhibiting advantages such as zero threshold, high quality factor, and radiation efficiency.
A new study published in Ecology Letters reveals a global decline in the resilience of vertebrate populations, with accelerating loss of ecological functions and services. The research found that cumulative effects of anthropogenic threats such as climate change, invasive species, habitat loss, and pollution are driving this loss.
Researchers have developed an assay that uses specific immune-biomarkers to monitor patient survival chances and effectiveness of ovarian cancer treatments. The 'sFIS' assay will enable targeted therapy for each patient, improving treatment outcomes.
SourceKU Leuven·JournalJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 18, 2021
A study found that many IVF embryos with chromosomal abnormalities have the potential to lead to successful pregnancies. Embryos with low-grade mosaicism had similar live birth rates and miscarriage rates as euploid embryos.
SourceCell Press·JournalThe American Journal of Human Genetics·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 18, 2021
A new imaging method measures individual photons, greatly reducing interference and improving spatial resolution by three times. The technology could also reduce radiation exposure during x-ray imaging, making it ideal for medical applications.
Researchers developed a model showing that microbes with complementary preferences can coexist in communities. The study found that assembled communities consist almost exclusively of microbes that grow the fastest on their top choice nutrient.
Scientists at the University of Groningen have developed a nanopore-based method for protein identification and sequencing. They constructed a proteosome-nanopore system that can recognize proteins from peptide spectra and sequence entire proteins directly.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that CRISPR gene-editing causes DNA damage, activating the p53 protein, which can lead to an accumulation of mutated cancer cells. The study identified a network of linked genes with similar mutations and suggests transient inhibition of p53 as a potential strategy to prevent their enrichment.
Researchers discovered that chemotherapy drugs can affect protein synthesis in muscle cells, even at low doses. This finding has significant implications for cancer treatment and exercise rehabilitation programs, suggesting that even non-oxidative stress effects of chemotherapy should be considered.
A recent study found that low-, middle-, and high-income countries hosting COVID-19 vaccine trials received proportionately more doses of vaccines. High-income countries were able to fully vaccinate their populations due to the higher dose allocation, raising concerns about unequal access to life-saving vaccines.
Researchers found that humour emerges as early as 1 month, with different types of humour developing at various ages. By 11 months, half the children were producing humour, often within a few hours. The study identified 21 types of humour in young children, shedding light on their cognitive, social, and mental health development.
A study found that 'surgery selfies' taken by patients and assessed by clinicians can diagnose wound infections early, reducing GP visits and improving access to care. The practice could manage surgical patient care while reducing pressure on the NHS.
A group of deaf and hard-of-hearing scientists argue that providing basic standards of support can increase diversity in fields of science and medicine. The authors propose five pillars to promote inclusion, including peer mentorship, captioning at conferences, and opportunities for leadership roles.
A plant-based diet rich in dark green leafy vegetables may help alleviate chronic migraine symptoms, according to doctors. The LIFE diet, which includes dark green veggies and limits animal protein, reduced the patient's migraines from 18 days a month to just one day a month.
A research team led by Barbara Mazzolai has created a soft, biodegradable, and soluble velcro that mimics the micro-hook structure of leaves on the 'catchweed' plant, enabling devices for environmental monitoring and precision farming. The technology reduces pesticide use and promotes sustainable agriculture practices.
Researchers developed a method to directly grow high-quality graphene on wafer-scale insulators without transfer, achieving improved electrical performance and carrier mobility. The approach utilizes copper acetate to supply copper clusters, enhancing precursor decomposition and resulting in robust graphene films.
A new study in mice reveals that the insular cortex plays a crucial role in balancing fear responses, integrating sensory and bodily signals to maintain an adaptive range. The InsCtx function depends on bodily feedback signals, dampening excessive fear-evoked activity and promoting healthy fear regulation.
A study by Katariina Koivusaari found that high cow's milk consumption is associated with a higher risk of developing preclinical type 1 diabetes in genetically predisposed children. The study also linked high-temperature treated infant formula to an increased risk of asthma in children.
Flowering plants dramatically increased Earth's biodiversity and rebuilt entire ecosystems after the dinosaur extinction. Angiosperms' unique features, such as colorful flowers and adaptations for insect pollination, drove their success.
A new paper cautions that slow economic growth may bring challenges, particularly in multicultural democracies like the US, affecting social solidarity, opportunity, inequality, and trust in government. The authors propose a 'guided civic revival' to address these challenges by strengthening democratic institutions, increasing social i...
Researchers from ASHBi at Kyoto University have made a breakthrough discovery on X-chromosome dosage compensation in monkeys. In contrast to mice, both X chromosomes are inactivated in female and male monkey embryos prior to implantation, but not after. This finding provides new insights into human embryonic development and may help ex...
Researchers at Texas A&M University developed a simulation tool to accurately assess the levels of specific marker compounds in organic aerosols. This helps government agencies monitor human-made sources of carbon-based pollutants and develop emission control measures for cleaner air.
The global red and processed meat trade has risen exponentially, leading to a sharp increase in diet-related illnesses, particularly bowel cancer, diabetes, and coronary artery heart disease. Health policies should be integrated with agricultural and trade policies to address this issue.
Researchers at Cornell University have launched scMuscle, a large single-cell database that provides a comprehensive picture of the dynamics of muscle repair. The database houses transcriptomic data from approximately 365,000 cells involved in muscle injury across various ages and experimental conditions.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill and UC Davis have discovered how the soil bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa uses copper to produce fluopsin C, a broad-spectrum antibiotic. This finding could lead to new treatments for infections caused by this pathogenic bacterium.
A review of anti-aging dietary interventions reveals complex physiological consequences and intriguing similarities across diets. The study suggests a common mechanism involving the inhibition of protein kinase mTOR as a molecular target for increasing health longevity in humans.
Researchers discovered a mechanism of sleep in zebrafish and mice, linking PARP1 protein to signaling the brain for sleep. Six hours of sleep per night is sufficient to reduce DNA damage, highlighting the importance of adequate sleep for efficient DNA repair.
Scientists have determined the near-atomic-scale structure of GPR158, a brain-cell receptor linked to depression and anxiety. The study offers insights into how to block this receptor as a strategy for treating major depressive disorder.
A recent study reveals that child maltreatment is associated with altered oxytocin gene methylation, leading to atypical brain structures and function. This finding suggests a potential biological mechanism for targeting during adolescence to improve the lives of victims of childhood abuse.
A groundbreaking technique allows researchers to study the unique venom production of a wide range of venomous animals, including scorpions, fish, and the platypus. This non-lethal approach provides new insights into how animals produce venom and opens up possibilities for discovering new drugs.
Researchers have developed highly sensitive quantum sensors for the brain that can detect magnetic fields generated when neurons fire. This technology introduces a new method to spot bio-markers of early health problems, such as Alzheimer's disease. The sensors are believed to be more accurate than existing EEG and fMRI scanners.
A comprehensive survey conducted by the Wildlife Conservation Society and partners estimates that 95,000 forest elephants live in Gabon, confirming it as the principal stronghold for this species. The study provides hope for the future of the critically endangered African forest elephant population.
Researchers found that warmer soil releases less carbon, but coarse-textured soils are more vulnerable to climate change. The study's findings highlight the importance of understanding soil types and their impact on carbon storage.
The new quantum microscope uses entangled photons to create interference patterns on the sample, reducing noise levels and increasing sensitivity by over 25%. This allows for high-resolution imaging of transparent cells without damaging them.
A new study by USC researchers uses GANs to generate synthetic neurological data that can be fed into machine-learning algorithms to improve BCI usability. This approach improved BCI training speed by up to 20 times and enabled rapid adaptation to new subjects.
A University of Illinois study examines the transport of aerosolized organic materials from bursting bubbles into the air. The research found that the viscosity and thickness of oil layers control the shape, size, and velocity of resulting bursting jets, with implications for contaminant dispersal and climate modeling.
A study of 16,000 patients with new cancer diagnoses found that those from higher socioeconomic backgrounds were more likely to use telemedicine in the months following their diagnosis. Higher socioeconomic groups also showed increased utilization of telemedicine services within 30 days of diagnosis during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A recent CDC analysis found that vaccination rates among US hospital personnel stalled after initial uptake, with 30% remaining unvaccinated as of September 2021. The analysis, which included data from over 3.3 million healthcare workers, revealed that vaccine mandates and educational efforts could help improve coverage.
Conservatives believe bodily markets violate human body sanctity, while liberals see them as exploitative. This study found liberals support laws punishing buyers over sellers, whereas conservatives back laws punishing both parties.
Researchers from Peking University developed a new technique using 4D-EELS to measure phonon modes at heterointerfaces, directly observing localized phonon modes for the first time. This breakthrough enables better understanding and control of solid interfaces' properties.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab are developing next-generation materials and systems for thermal energy storage, which could be a viable alternative to batteries. The technology has the potential to reduce demand on the electricity grid from thermal loads and free up resources for other applications.
Researchers discovered that a specialized form of vitamin D can reduce inflammation caused by T cells in lung cells, which may be relevant to severe COVID-19. The study suggests that adding this concentrated intravenous metabolite to existing treatments could help patients recover from COVID infections.
A group of former PCAST members recommend a commission to examine public health agencies, earlier outbreaks, pandemic preparedness, and the U.S. response to COVID-19, aiming to improve future preparedness
Researchers have identified metabolic signatures in blood plasma that can predict a patient's response to chemotherapy and prognosis. This discovery enables physicians to personalize treatment and enhance its efficiency, leading to improved outcomes for patients with gynecologic tumors.
The study tracked nations' progress in meeting basic needs and respecting environmental limits, finding that no country meets both criteria without overconsuming resources. Wealthy countries like the US and UK drive ecological breakdown while poor countries like Bangladesh struggle to meet basic human needs.
CanDIG, a collaboration of computer scientists, AI specialists, clinicians, and geneticists, enables studies needed to address health challenges in Canada. The platform is helping scientists access large-scale genomics data and connect Canada's genomic datasets to those from around the world.
A nationwide observational study published in Circulation found that lower levels of income and education are associated with reduced chances of survival after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. The study analyzed data from 31,373 cases of OHCA between 2010 and 2017, showing a correlation that was observed in both men and women.
A new article from McGill University researchers advocates for bolstering planetary biosecurity to address potential biological contamination risks from space missions. Early detection and rapid response protocols, informed by knowledge gained from invasion science, are crucial for preventing the spread of alien biological contaminants.
Researchers have developed highly efficient flexible perovskite solar cells by annealing a SnO2 ETL in a rough vacuum at a low temperature, achieving 20.14% efficiency and improved interface connection.
A recent study published in the Journal of Marketing found that brand-to-brand praise can lead to increased consumer engagement and sales for the praiser. The research suggests that this approach is particularly effective for brands that are not traditionally seen as warm or caring, such as for-profit brands.
Researchers have uncovered how a viral RNA changes shape to hijack host proteins, revealing the role of cryogenic electron microscopy in making this discovery possible. The study highlights the emerging power of cryo-EM to visualize multifunctional dynamic RNA structures.
Researchers at Children's National Hospital have successfully developed a personalized T cell immunotherapy that targets and kills unique proteins in individual tumor cells. This approach, combining genetic sequencing and protein identification, offers a promising treatment option for children with hard-to-treat brain tumors.
Researchers studied 4022 dogs fed different diets as puppies to see if it affected allergy and atopy related skin symptoms in adulthood. They found that puppies fed raw tripe, organ meats, and human meal leftovers had fewer allergies and skin issues.
A new virtual histology technology may reduce the need for invasive skin biopsies, providing a biopsy-free solution for rapid diagnosis of malignant skin tumors. The technology uses deep-learning frameworks to transform images of intact skin into detailed, virtually stained images.
Aluminum implantation doping creates defects many layers deeper than the implantation site, affecting conductivity modulation and specific on-resistance. Researchers found that ion implantation defects penetrate up to 20 µm from the active region, requiring processing at least this distance away.
A team of researchers from UC Riverside has discovered how a small molecule called auxin triggers the growth process in plants. By analyzing cell walls, they found that auxin lowers pH levels, causing cells to become acidic and soften, allowing them to expand and grow.
The WVU-led Dolly Sods GPU cluster enables researchers to accelerate computational research in fields like drug development, interstellar phenomena, and biometrics. The cluster will facilitate the analysis of massive datasets and enable real-time processing of signals from satellites in space.
Early symptomatic cases linked to Hunan Market, where live animals were sold, suggesting zoonotic spillover as likely source of COVID-19. The closure of the market and lack of virus screening from animals may hinder understanding of the origin.
Researchers have developed a new electrochemical technique for printing metal objects at the nanoscale, achieving resolutions of up to 25 nanometres in diameter. This technology has vast potential applications in fields like microelectronics, sensor technology, and battery production.
A new AI model has been developed to classify colorectal polyps, demonstrating accuracy and sensitivity at a level comparable to practicing pathologists. The model was tested in a clinical trial involving 15 pathologists, showing significant improvements in accuracy compared to traditional methods.
USP8 activity regulation has been decoded, revealing an autoinhibitory region that interacts with its catalytic region and enhances deubiquitinating activity in Cushing's disease. This discovery could lead to targeted therapy for the condition.
Researchers found a mechanism that regulates cell behavior depending on environment's curvature change, using soft hydrogels to replicate folding patterns in living tissues. The study reveals how curvature governs cell distribution, shape, and density in complex environments.
A new study examines the genetic basis of longevity in Galápagos giant tortoises and finds that these animals have extra copies of genes that may protect against aging and cancer. The creatures' cells respond to stress in ways that could help prevent disease.
Researchers have developed a new strategy to combat the tick-borne Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) virus by reconstructing its structure and identifying neutralizing antibodies. The study, published in Science, offers insights for developing therapeutics and vaccines against the virus.
Researchers will investigate brain circuitry, neurochemicals and immune system interactions to understand why people living with HIV are more vulnerable to depression. They aim to identify specific biomarkers of depression and develop better treatments.
A recent study found that B cells can support tissue repair and regeneration after injury by adopting MyD88-dependent regulatory functions and phenotype. This complex mechanism involves the release of pro- and anti-inflammatory molecules, which facilitate healing and reduce inflammation-associated proteins.
A new study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that adults with ADHD are four times more likely to experience generalized anxiety disorder. Factors associated with GAD among those with ADHD include being female, having a lower income, and a history of major depressive disorder.
A non-partisan COVID-19 commission could provide a clear-eyed assessment of the US response to the pandemic and recommend steps for improvement. The commission should evaluate public health infrastructure, warnings and origins of the virus, and adequacy of pandemic preparedness.
MIT physicists have observed the Pauli exclusion principle suppressing how a cloud of ultracold, superdense atoms scatter light. The effect, known as Pauli blocking, makes the atoms effectively transparent and invisible to photons.
A new study describes a proof of principle for engineering Gluconobacter oxydans bacteria to extract rare earth elements from ore in a way that meets U.S. environmental standards. The method is more efficient than current thermochemical extraction and refinement methods, with potential to control the resource and meet domestic demand.
A University at Buffalo study explores how social and economic characteristics influence hospital readmissions and health inequity in the US. The research found that patients with lower household income, male gender, or treated in urban hospitals have a higher risk of being readmitted within a month of discharge.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital discovered that cancer cells can disarmed the immune system by forming nanotubes that pull out mitochondria from immune cells. This new mechanism gives a target to go after, leading to potential new combinations of therapies for improving cancer immunotherapy outcomes.
Researchers find that right-wing parties in Brazil successfully employ descriptive representation to connect with poor voters, nominating less educated candidates. However, they also face challenges due to the unavailability of less educated candidates and potential voter backlash against less capable politicians.
Researchers found that re-identifying individuals from genomic data using public face images is harder than previously thought, with success rates well below idealized settings. They developed a method to alter social media photos and reduce the risk of privacy breaches.
A team of scientists from Tokyo University of Science has developed a machine learning-based tool to predict thermoacoustic oscillations in engines. The tool uses dynamical systems theory and can classify combustion into three states, identifying pressure fluctuations that indicate future combustion oscillations.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a new microscopy method that can track 100 single molecules simultaneously in three dimensions. The technique uses surface plasmon resonance (SPR) technology to precisely image molecular binding events and study their dynamic activities in real time.
A fossil previously believed to be a four-legged snake is actually a long-bodied marine lizard, according to a new study. The discovery challenges the long-held assumption that a 'snake with four legs' exists in the evolutionary chain.
Researchers found that bigger connections between the two grids can increase transmission capacity and provide significant value through sharing generation resources and flexibility across regions. The study suggests that a macrogrid could pay for itself in three primary ways: by helping different parts of the country meet their peak d...
Researchers at the University of Notre Dame have identified a new type of cell in the heart that may play a crucial role in regulating heart rate. The cells, termed nexus glia, resemble astrocytes found in the brain and are located in the outflow tract of the heart, where many congenital heart defects occur.
Atmospheric rivers are predicted to drastically alter Australia's alpine wilderness due to climate change. The phenomenon, characterized by long, narrow regions of high moisture content, is expected to increase extreme and frequent events, leading to severe flash flooding and rapid snowmelt.
Researchers found that individual urban trees, such as street trees, can capture and store rainfall at a rate of three times that of clusters or patches. The study used sap flux sensors to monitor transpiration rates in 18 mature red maple trees, revealing significantly higher transpiration rates in single trees compared to cluster trees.
Researchers at Linköping University have developed a concept for large-scale energy storage that is safe, cheap and sustainable. The technology uses wood-based electrodes and a new type of water-based electrolyte, achieving a world record for energy storage with organic electrodes in water-based electrolytes.
Fred Martin, a UMass Lowell computer scientist, is being recognized for developing an educational framework that introduces robotics and AI to K-12 students. His work has guided the development of primary and secondary AI education initiatives worldwide.
A McMaster University-led study found that stress hormones suppress the innate immune system, which normally protects the gut from harmful bacteria like E. coli linked to Crohn's disease. Removing stress hormones restored proper function to immune cells and epithelial cells, blocking invasion of microbes.
A new study found that white people trained in mindfulness were three times more likely to help black people in staged scenarios than those who were not trained. However, preferential helping of other white people remained, and participants preferred to help racial ingroup members.
The European Union and European Economic Area saw a significant decline in antibiotic consumption in 2020, with a 18% decrease compared to 2019. This decline was largely attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to reduced primary care consultations for mild infections.
A new study led by scientists at Mount Sinai highlights the role of rare genomic differences in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) risk. The research found that about 10% of the risk for OCD is attributed to rare genomic variations, which were not seen in previous studies.
A new study found that employee engagement with health and wellbeing programmes is associated with better co-worker relationships, reduced bullying, and improved job satisfaction. The research suggests that even senior managers' commitment to these initiatives has a positive impact on employees' social relationships.
Researchers from Louisiana State University uncover salt workers' residences and outdoor areas where fish were salted and dried. The discovery sheds light on the organization of the salt industry and its importance to inland cities during the Classic Maya civilization.
Researchers at Michigan State University are developing wearable devices to track air pollution exposure, providing unprecedented data on air quality over space and time. The devices will help inform policies and interventions to protect vulnerable populations from the health impacts of air pollution.
A recent study estimates that between 700,000 and 1.6 million US individuals have experienced a lasting loss or change in their sense of smell due to SARS-CoV-2. The analysis suggests that these individuals may be experiencing chronic COVID-19-related olfactory dysfunction.
New research from a University of South Carolina scientist reveals that rising rivers pose a danger to coastal communities and those farther upstream due to climate change. The study shows how river processes affect entire watersheds down to the coast, contributing to more intense flooding.
A study using anonymized health data found that people with poorly managed long-term glycemic control are nearly 50% more likely to require ICU treatment if they contract COVID-19. Metformin, insulin, and corticosteroids may also reduce the risk of severe COVID-19.
A new study found that host immunity drives the evolution of the dengue virus, causing it to adapt and change over time. The research, published in Science, analyzed genetic variation and immune signatures of dengue viruses isolated in Bangkok over a 20-year period.
A multicenter clinical trial is underway to evaluate the efficacy of a novel immunosuppressant in reducing organ rejection after lung transplantation. The study involves 330 patients and aims to improve health outcomes for thousands of lung transplant patients.
A novel detection system developed by Chinese researchers can non-invasively detect skin cholesterol levels, a close proxy for LDL-C and apoB serum measurements. This innovation may help long-term lipid management of CVDs, providing an alternative to invasive blood lipid detection methods.
The Surrey researchers have identified key design rules for curved X-ray detectors, enabling clearer and safer X-rays. By tuning the molecular weight of organic semiconductors, they have created a new class of flexible digital detectors with high sensitivity and low cost, promising significant commercial advantages.
Researchers found that both deep and shallow conversations felt less awkward and led to greater feelings of connectedness and enjoyment than expected. People underestimated how interested strangers were in their deeper thoughts and feelings, but accurate expectations increased interest in having a deeper conversation.
A new study provides preliminary data for a human clinical trial of a treatment that targets the root cause of Alexander disease. The treatment has shown promising results in halting the progression of the disease and even reversing some symptoms in rat models, which better represent the human condition.
A new mRNA vaccine, CV2CoV, has demonstrated a ten-fold higher antibody response and significantly improved protective efficacy against COVID-19 compared to the original CVnCoV. The second-generation vaccine induced antigen-specific memory B cell responses and T cell responses in non-human primates.
Researchers developed novel photon upconversion systems with heterojunctions of bilayer films of organic semiconductors, achieving two orders of magnitude higher external quantum efficiency than conventional systems. This breakthrough enables bright yellow emission in flexible thin films for optogenetics and biosensing applications.
A new data-model study suggests that the Antarctic Ice Sheet's tipping point was reached within a decade, leading to centuries of ice mass loss and potential irreversible ice retreat. The research team analyzed sediment cores and computer models to identify evidence of post-glacial tipping points in the past.
Researchers developed an integrated 'all-in-one' strategy to stabilize zinc anodes, improving the performance of aqueous zinc-ion batteries. The new approach combines structural design, interface modification, and electrolyte optimization to enhance stability, rate performance, and reduce side reactions.
The new method enables faster prototyping of customized optical components for various applications, including eyewear and telescopes. It achieves extremely smooth surfaces using basic equipment found in most labs.
A study published in the Journal of Sport and Social Issues found that NFL players who committed general violence received shorter suspensions than those who committed violence against women. The league punished players for drug offenses twice as much as those for general violent behavior, according to researchers.
Researchers at Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology create method to estimate five-room acoustic parameters and speech transmission index using a short conversation, with potential applications in monitoring auditoriums during concerts and saving lives through smart speakers
Physicists at PPPL have discovered a new way to measure and understand high-energy-density plasmas, which are essential for fine-tuning inertial confinement fusion experiments. The study revealed that ion temperatures and electron temperatures were not equivalent, providing new insights into the behavior of these extreme states of matter.
Researchers from Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA) propose a radical approach to accelerate the energy transition. By using fossil power plants at full capacity and building solar infrastructure, they aim to minimize cumulative CO2 emissions and complete the energy transition within five years.
The insular cortex processes both positive and negative emotions and receives information from the body, including heart rate and breathing. In mice, the brain uses bodily signals to regulate fear, keeping it within a healthy range.
A Rutgers University study found that local budgets in New Jersey can have severe consequences for maternal outcomes. The research suggests that increased spending on public health, education, and transportation is associated with better maternal outcomes, while higher spending on police does not have a positive association.
Researchers at JILA have developed a technique to extend the excited-state lifetime of atoms in a Fermi sea, allowing for improved quantum communication networks and atomic clocks. By manipulating the Pauli exclusion principle, they achieved a significant delay in spontaneous decay.
A new deep learning-powered approach transforms RCM images into virtually-stained H&E images, enabling the analysis of microscopic skin features without invasive biopsies. This technique, called virtual histology, can diagnose various skin conditions, including basal cell carcinoma and melanocytic nevi.
Researchers will assess potential effects on individuals with pre-existing conditions and measure toxin levels in blood, urine, and nasal mucosa. The study aims to understand the long-term health impacts of exposure to harmful algal blooms and develop tools for measuring concentrations of toxins in the environment.
A study published in JAMA Ophthalmology found that COVID-19 public health measures, such as social distancing and travel restrictions, were associated with a decrease in pink eye emergency department visits. The findings suggest these measures may have helped reduce the spread of infectious conjunctivitis.
A new study demonstrates the importance of supply-side enhancements to increase clean fuel consumption in sub-Saharan Africa. Supply-side interventions such as shortening distances to retail points and improving access to multi-burner stoves are found to be crucial for accelerating growth of the clean cooking market.
The Human Proteoform Project aims to characterize known proteoforms and discover new ones, ultimately establishing a comprehensive Human Proteome Atlas. This atlas will enable researchers to accelerate biomedical research and discovery, leading to improved diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas have developed a vaccine method against recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) using metal-organic frameworks. The new approach produces substantially enhanced antibody production and significantly higher survival rates in mice compared to standard vaccine preparation methods.
A team of researchers has created a detailed map of the proteins in human lungs, shedding light on how the organs develop and function. The study found that the immune system in the lungs continues to mature after birth, providing new avenues for understanding diseases such as asthma and COVID-19.
Scientists from City University of Hong Kong successfully developed battery-like electrochemical Nb2CTx MXene electrodes with stable voltage output and high energy density. The findings break the performance bottleneck of MXene devices, exhibiting superior rate capability, durable cyclic performance, and high energy density.
The Lef1 gene is found to suppress the development and growth of colorectal cancer by restricting cancer stem cell niches. Blocking this gene leads to increased tumor stem cell niches and accelerated tumor growth.
Researchers used stalagmites from Jiangjun cave in China to study the response of the Indian summer monsoon to meltwater pulses in the North Atlantic. The analysis revealed that a stronger meltwater pulse caused a drastic reduction in monsoon intensity, while minor events had less impact.
A comprehensive assessment of polyurethane in the US reveals complexities that affect its recovery and recycling. The study highlights opportunities to enhance circularity and increase bio-based content of polyurethanes.
A new study reveals that glial cells in the heart play a critical role in regulating heart rate and rhythm, as well as driving its development in the embryo. The discovery suggests that glia may also be important in other organs.
A new clinical trial by Massachusetts General Hospital shows that combining low-dose radiation with nivolumab and ipilimumab improved responses in patients with resistant colorectal and pancreatic cancers. Researchers found that tumors with higher expression of viral sequences like HERV-K were more likely to respond.
UArizona researchers created osseosurface electronics, a wireless device that grows to the surface of bone to monitor health and healing. The thin structure allows for accurate measurements over long periods, enabling personalized orthopedic care.
A study using Google Trends and Wikipedia search volume found that public interest in earthquakes is dependent on the income level of the affected country. Earthquakes in developing countries receive less international attention than those in developed countries, with interest often dwindling within a week. However, interest persists f...
A recent study by Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute has discovered a conserved syndecan protein that coordinates communication between the germline and the rest of the body. This mechanism is required for germ cells to divide correctly, generating offspring.