A new study suggests that the brain uses a mechanism called 'repulsion' to differentiate between similar environments. Researchers found that when participants were asked about stores shared between two cities, their brains showed surprisingly different patterns of activity, indicating that they were treating these familiar locations a...
A team of researchers at Georgia State University has created a lightning-fast computer software that can process over 200,000 novel virus genomes in under two hours. The software provides valuable information for countries making early decisions about lockdowns, quarantines, and testing during infectious disease outbreaks.
The WOCN Society and medical organizations outline key principles for stoma site selection and marking. A properly placed stoma site can improve quality of life and reduce complications, while individualized consideration is necessary for optimal results.
A study of healthy individuals aged 50-74 found that coffee and tea consumption was associated with reduced rates of stroke and dementia. People who drank 2-3 cups of coffee and 2-3 cups of tea daily had a 32% lower risk of stroke and a 28% lower risk of dementia compared to those who consumed none.
A Québec research team studied the expression of three families of genes in the placenta and found associations with febrile seizure characteristics. The study, led by Professor Sarah Lippé, may help understand the underlying mechanisms of febrile seizures and their impact on children's cognitive development.
Researchers identified brain cells called angular head velocity (AHV) cells that track head motion speed, which improves estimation of own head angular speed when visual cues are available. This study sheds light on the neural mechanisms underlying navigation and self-motion guidance in the brain.
Researchers created a portable electronic nose that can detect the stink of wastewater treatment plants with near-human accuracy. The device is combined with a drone to measure air quality and predict odor intensity, producing real-time maps for management.
Scientists sequenced Plasmodium falciparum genomes to understand malaria parasite populations and track drug resistance biomarkers. The study identified population-specific SNPs that can be used to determine transmission routes and monitor drug resistance.
Researchers used a new X-ray technique to identify substances quietly eating away at the Mary Rose's timbers, contributing to its decay. The technique, developed by Kirsten Marie Ørnsbjerg Jensen, allows for better preservation of cultural artefacts and archaeological relics.
Researchers at the University of California, Irvine developed a new 'body area network' fabric that enables battery-free communication between clothing and nearby devices. This innovation allows wearers to digitally interact with electronic devices and make secure payments using a simple high-five or handshake.
The University of Sydney's project searches for Earth-like planets around Alpha Centauri to determine if life could survive there. The team is using advanced telescope technology to analyze the stars' atmospheres and detect signs of life.
Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University discovered a genetic variant associated with a poorer prognosis of chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis. The variant, rs5743899, was linked to increased immune activation and fibrosis, leading to reduced lung function in patients.
Scientists designed a precursor compound with a single conjugated polymer chain and then formed a second rail through a zipper reaction to create a molecular ladder. The ladder has two tracks of conjugated polymers, allowing energy to move along the molecule in space.
A recent study published in JNCCN found that only 31% of hospitals have immediate availability of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA), a crucial blood cancer medication. This medication is essential for treating acute promyelocytic leukemia, which has a better prognosis when treated appropriately. The lack of ATRA availability poses a signi...
A new AI application called DeepMReye uses MRI signals to read eye movements and infer thoughts, memories, and goals. It can also diagnose brain diseases by analyzing characteristic eye movement patterns.
Researchers suppressed cortical excitability to resolve self-interest vs. prosocial motivations in favor of cooperation, particularly in dictator games. In generosity games, no effect was observed. The study suggests the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex plays a key role in resolving conflicts between self-interest and prosociality.
A new study published in The BMJ has found that women with kidney failure experience significantly reduced life expectancy compared to men, with an average loss of 3.6 years of life. Women under 15 also experienced the most significant loss in life expectancy, with a 33-year loss for females.
International researchers used machine learning to forecast marsh establishment under various environmental conditions, revealing that controllable local factors are more important than global climate change. The study suggests smart management of tidal flats can counteract threats and strengthen wetlands.
A rapid same-day test has been developed to identify secondary infections in COVID-19 patients on intensive care, allowing for targeted antibiotic treatment and reduced risk of antimicrobial resistance. The test uses nanopore sequencing technology to analyze bacterial and fungal pathogens present in patient samples.
A randomized trial found that drinking caffeinated coffee is associated with a 54% increase in premature ventricular contractions and fewer episodes of supraventricular tachycardia. Coffee consumption also promotes more physical activity but reduces sleep duration, which can have numerous adverse health outcomes.
A study of 4,700 older adults found that those with social support had a lower likelihood of prolonged nursing home stays after a sudden health change. Having identifiable social support was associated with improved outcomes and reduced risk of extended care.
A clinical trial found that giving immunotherapy before targeted therapy improves survival in advanced melanoma patients, with a two-year overall survival rate of 72% compared to 52%. The study suggests that immunotherapy should be the initial approach for treating metastatic melanoma patients, regardless of BRAF mutation status.
A new UCSF study shows that solo seniors with social support are less likely to need nursing home care. Older adults who said they could count on a friend or relative for assistance in the event of a health crisis reduced their risk of institutional care from 14.2% to 10.9%. The study found that many older adults can take care of thems...
A team of Chinese researchers has developed an electrocatalyst that efficiently converts CO2 into liquid fuels with multiple carbon atoms. The primary products are ethanol, acetone, and n-butanol, which have high energy density and are safe to store and transport.
A Rice University undergraduate student and her mentor have synthesized the first molecule found in poppies, setigerumine I, using a three-step process at room temperature. The environmentally friendly method produced 20 milligrams of the rare extract, which could be a potential precursor for non-addictive painkillers.
The Sierra Nevada mountain range in California has a complex history, with two distinct periods of formation. The ancient range was formed around 100 million years ago as a volcanic chain, but was later dwarfed by a vast plateau. Volcanic activity around 40 million to 20 million years ago lifted the Earth's surface, forming new mountai...
Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital presented a fast-acting antibody-based agent to reverse the antiplatelet effects of ticagrelor, showing immediate and sustained reversal. A remote monitoring program also improved blood pressure and cholesterol control in 10,000 patients with diverse cardiovascular risk profiles.
Researchers at Rice University have discovered a new mechanism by which prions can regulate protein synthesis in cells. The model proposes that prion aggregates and their monomers play a role in channeling RNA messages into new proteins, forming organized protein synthesis factories. This discovery has implications for our understandin...
Researchers used seabird prey data to inform fisheries management and assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the marine ecosystem. The study revealed a surge in anchovy populations and changes in rockfish recruitment, informing ecologists and fisheries managers.
The discovery of a Roman arched aqueduct in Artaxata-Artashat in ancient Armenia provides evidence of the failure of Roman imperialism. The aqueduct, built between 114 and 117 CE, was never completed due to the relinquishment of the province by Emperor Hadrian after Trajan's death.
A new brain-inspired computing device harnesses randomness to improve AI and machine learning performance. The device, called hetero-memristor, emulates the stochastic properties of neurons, allowing for more efficient optimization and reduced power consumption.
A new risk score developed by Mount Sinai researchers can help predict possible contrast-associated acute kidney injury among patients undergoing PCI. The 'Mehran-2 CA-AKI Risk Score' enhances management of high-risk patients before, during, and after the procedure.
Researchers have confirmed the existence of lunar carbon dioxide cold traps that could contain solid carbon dioxide, a key resource for sustaining robot or human presence on the moon. The discovery has major implications for future lunar exploration and international policy.
A proposal suggests that wealthier nations should pay a COVID-19 vaccine tax to support COVAX, an international initiative buying and distributing vaccines for the world's poorest. The tax would be proportional to how much they spend on jabs for their own populations.
Scientists at the University of Fukui developed a new triboelectric fabric that generates electricity from body movement, maintaining flexibility and breathability. The fabric, called AF-TENG, can power low-powered devices like LEDs and calculators, demonstrating its potential in wearable technology.
Researchers Eoin Ó Colgáin and Mohammad Mehdi Sheikh-Jabbari found that the approach may not be universally applicable across all models. Their study evaluates Gaussian Processes using the Hubble constant, highlighting a mismatch between smaller-scale and overall measurements.
A team of Penn State researchers used high-pressure jet technology to enhance the viscosity and stability of fat-free chocolate milk, eliminating the need for carrageenan. The study found that structural changes in casein micelles and new casein-cocoa interactions induced by the processing method increased cocoa stability.
Osaka University researchers have successfully synthesized a stable, crystalline nanographene with predicted magnetic properties, opening the door to revolutionary advances in electronics and magnets. The breakthrough uses a simplified model system called triangulene, which has long been elusive due to polymerization issues.
A randomized placebo-controlled trial found canagliflozin improved symptoms, function, and quality of life for patients with heart failure. The study used a virtual approach, demonstrating the success of decentralized clinical trials.
Researchers investigated the association between COVID-19 and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), analyzing electronic health records of over 83,000 patients. The study found a significant lower risk of death among patients with COVID-19 prescribed SSRIs.
A new study found that a simple surgical technique called posterior left pericardiotomy significantly reduces the risk of atrial fibrillation in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The procedure, which involves draining excess fluid and small clots from the heart sac, was associated with a 56% lower incidence of irregular heart rhythm...
A new study suggests that larger conservation areas are ineffective in protecting threatened species in central Africa, citing a lack of funding and resource management issues. The research found that broader conservation efforts often led to decreased populations due to the lands being too large to manage effectively.
A new prediction framework can forecast extreme climate events like floods and heatwaves up to two days in advance, allowing for crucial preparation time. This network-based approach analyzes large-scale connectivity patterns in observational data to improve forecasting accuracy.
George Mason University researchers Zhi Tian and Yue Wang are securing $125,000 in funding from the Virginia Innovation Partnership Authority to develop an artificial intelligence-based solution for multi-access edge computing. The project aims to enhance network security and improve efficiency of collaborative machine learning.
A survey study of US youth aged 14-24 found that they understand the short-term risks of sun damage, yet experience high numbers of self-reported burns. Despite using sunscreen, nearly all participants reported skin injuries.
A new RAND Corporation report suggests that extending temporary tax credits could help insurance markets in the future. Analysis found that current federal legislative proposals could be critical to avoiding coverage loss in future recessions.
A new study by NYU School of Global Public Health found that telephone visits accounted for a larger proportion of telemedicine care than video visits, highlighting their role in addressing the 'digital divide'. Despite challenges, providers reported positive experiences delivering care remotely using both phone and video, and emphasiz...
Research reveals that dyslexic children process visual information slower and less accurately than their peers, with brain activity differences detected. This study challenges previous assumptions about the effects of dyslexia on brain processes.
Researchers trained an artificial intelligence algorithm to predict the next designer drugs before they are even on the market, allowing law enforcement agencies to identify and regulate new versions of dangerous psychoactive drugs. The model was tested against 196 new designer drugs and found nearly all were present in its generated set.
The oral PCSK9 inhibitor MK-0616 has been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol levels by up to 65% in patients with high cholesterol, without causing serious side effects. The study's findings suggest that MK-0616 could be a promising new treatment option for lowering bad cholesterol.
A team of MIT researchers has created a biohybrid photocatalyst that can mimic photosynthesis, improving the yield of chemical reactions for generating pharmaceuticals. The new catalyst uses a light-harvesting protein to capture energy from red light and transfer it to a metal-containing catalyst.
Sam Lebovic will study the evolution of the Espionage Act from 1917 to its present day impact on democracy. The funding will explore how secrecy regimes affect public discourse and press freedom.
A new study found that over 70% of microplastics in ocean and river samples could come from scientists collecting them. The researchers used a catalogue to identify potential sources of contamination, finding that even small items like clothing and gear contributed significantly.
Research conducted by Mount Sinai Hospital reveals that cannabis exposure in utero can lead to higher levels of anxiety, aggression, and hyperactivity in children. Placental gene expression also shows lower immune-activating genes, predicting these outcomes.
Researchers at the Texas Heart Institute have made significant breakthroughs in treating persistent heart failure with a novel stem cell therapy. The phase 3 clinical trial results show that this treatment has the potential to alter the natural history of heart disease, reducing hospitalizations and improving patient outcomes.
Researchers from UNLV have discovered a new mineral, davemaoite, which originated between 410-560 miles deep within the Earth's lower mantle. The calcium silicate compound was trapped in a diamond and preserved due to its incredible strength, making it possible for scientists to study its structure.
Researchers compared milvexian with enoxaparin for prevention of blood clots in knee replacement surgery patients. Milvexian resulted in better clot protection without increased bleeding risk. The study suggests a safer oral anticoagulant alternative for preventing blood clots.
The American Federation for Aging Research (AFAR) has awarded the 2021 Sagol Network GerOmic Award to Junyue Cao, PhD, Assistant Professor at The Rockefeller University. Dr. Cao's project aims to profile single-cell molecular dynamics in aging tissues using high-throughput techniques.
Research suggests that using mirrors can decrease anxiety and body dissatisfaction in individuals with obesity. This mirror-based intervention aims to promote self-assessment and reflection, leading to behavioral changes.
Researchers have devised a new method, NeoScreen, to generate large numbers of immune cells specifically engineered to recognize neoantigens and destroy tumors. This approach significantly improves the identification of patient-specific neoantigens, holding promise for the development of personalized immunotherapies.