Researchers at University of Maryland School of Medicine discovered that air pollution causes inflammation in the brain, leading to reduced sperm counts in mice. The findings suggest it may be possible to develop treatments for various medical conditions caused by air pollution.
A recent study by the University of Eastern Finland suggests that consuming one serving of whole grains daily can reduce type 2 diabetes incidence and associated costs in Finland. The potential cost savings could be up to €1 billion over ten years, leading to healthier years for individuals.
Scientists at St Petersburg University have developed a new organic compound that can 'switch' its biological activity on demand under exposure to light, increasing precision and safety in affecting human body cells. The phosphonate can be used in various medical spheres, including ophthalmology and neurodegenerative diseases.
Scientists discover 28 new species of Trigonopterus beetles, including T. corona, named after the coronavirus and Star Wars characters. The discovery fills a gap in understanding Sulawesi's geological history and biodiversity.
A new study found black spruce trees' ability to regenerate after fire dropped by 38% and failed completely at 18% of sites. This trend threatens the iconic species' place as dominant tree species in boreal North America, with implications for biodiversity and carbon storage.
A recent study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology found that individuals with clinically significant cataracts have a higher risk of dying from strokes and heart attacks. The study analyzed data from over 14,000 participants and found that the risk of death was 36% higher for those who had undergone cataract surgery.
A new study published in EClinical Medicine found that a person's existing medical conditions can significantly impact which antidepressant works best for them. The data-driven website allows patients to share their medical history and receive personalized recommendations for antidepressants.
A new analysis of US national data finds that external-beam radiation therapy is a proven treatment option for patients with unresectable liver cancer but is rarely prescribed, with only 3.6% of patients receiving it. The study suggests that institutional and regional practice patterns play a key role in driving treatment decisions.
A new study found that COVID-19 can trigger severe psychiatric symptoms in adolescents, with anti-neural antibodies playing a potential role. Two patients with mild/asymptomatic COVID developed suicidal thoughts and paranoid fears, while another patient without prior psychiatric history recovered fully after treatment.
Researchers have identified eight genes in the Candida glabrata fungus that confer resistance to various drugs. The study allows for genetic testing to diagnose potential drug resistance, guiding treatment choices. The findings also highlight cross-resistance phenomena, where exposure to one drug can lead to resistance to another.
Researchers found that certain urinary biomarkers, including neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin and kidney injury molecule-1, were associated with increased risk of severe acute kidney injury or death in patients hospitalized with COVID-19. These biomarkers may help identify patients at high risk for adverse kidney outcomes.
Researchers at MIT develop a method to decode images of cells in a tissue to determine its phase, which can indicate its developmental stage or cancer progression. The technique uses triangular order parameters to characterize tissue states, allowing for quicker and less invasive diagnoses.
A new 'smart bandage' has been developed to track wound moisture levels wirelessly, enabling doctors to monitor wounds without removing the bandage. The technology could help improve wound healing rates by detecting optimal moisture levels, reducing the risk of disruption to the healing process.
A new study found that Long COVID can cause symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, and cognitive impairment lasting over a year. The study also showed that more than 60% of patients experienced some level of cognitive impairment, with significant impacts on employment and quality of life.
For the second consecutive month, unemployment declined for people with and without disabilities, according to nTIDE September 2021 COVID Update. However, levels remain higher than pre-pandemic levels for both groups, with people with disabilities looking for work at rates higher than before the pandemic.
A recent clinical trial found that a shortened course of radiation therapy after prostate removal surgery does not increase long-term side effects or lower quality of life compared to conventional treatment. Patients who underwent hypofractionated, post-operative radiation therapy experienced comparable genitourinary and gastrointestin...
A recent international workshop aimed to turn plans for a crewed lunar observatory into reality. The workshop, led by Vanderbilt astrophysicist Karan Jani, brought together experts from GW science, planetary science, and lunar exploration to discuss the geophysical properties of the moon and opportunities for observation.
A 500-year-old English illuminated manuscript provides fresh insights into Catholic beliefs in England before the Reformation. The metre-long prayer roll contains religious verse and illustrations, including symbols of Christ's crucifixion, which were connected to a famous pilgrimage site.
Researchers are developing an AI-informed training teammate to promote active, cooperative learning and demonstrate feasibility of human-AI teaming technology for ADHD workers in the construction industry. The system will assess, adapt, and respond to worker behavior, predicting potential incidents and preventing injuries.
Researchers found little-to-no differences in emotional fluctuations between men and women, contradicting long-held assumptions about hormonal influences on emotion. The study's findings have implications for research participation and understanding of emotional variability.
A new project aims to empower people who are blind to independently review and protect their personal visual content from accidental privacy leaks. Researchers have developed novel computer vision algorithms that can detect sensitive information in images and videos, allowing users to blur or remove private content before sharing.
A new Penn State study explores how climate change affects rain in the U.S. Corn Belt, finding that air humidity plays a crucial role. The research suggests that high near-surface humidity is most important for convective precipitation or rain, contrary to previous expectations that soil moisture would be the key factor.
A Phase III clinical trial found no significant increase in genitourinary or gastrointestinal toxicity with hypofractionated post-operative prostate bed radiotherapy compared to conventional radiotherapy. However, dose-escalated radiation therapy was not shown to be superior to conventional RT.
Researchers using satellite geodesy and InSAR imagery found the Arabian side of the Dead Sea Transform fault has been moving steadily northwards at around five millimeters per year. The studies suggest that large earthquakes may be less frequent near the southern end of the Gulf, but more investigations are needed for a resilient city.
Researchers discovered a novel topological edge soliton that inherits topological protection from its linear counterpart, enabling robust and localized light beams. This breakthrough is achieved through nonlinear photorefractive lattices harnessing the valley Hall effect, without requiring an external magnetic field.
Researchers used ancient climate reconstructions to improve understanding of climate system thresholds and predict abrupt changes. By applying paleoclimate information to Earth System models, they demonstrated improved accuracy in simulating past abrupt climate events.
A new study reveals that methane emissions from US cities are 2-10 times higher than recent estimates, with Boston's emissions being six times higher due to pipeline and end-use emitters. The research found that seasonal consumption-based emissions account for 56% of total natural gas emissions in Boston.
A new study reveals that high-performing AI next-word prediction models resemble the function of language-processing centers in the human brain. The models' activity patterns closely match those seen in the brain during language tasks, suggesting a potential connection between AI and human language processing.
A new study reveals that rural Americans face significant challenges in accessing COVID-19 treatment trials, with many living more than an hour away from the nearest trial site. Native Americans and Alaska Natives are particularly affected, with over 50% living more than 60 minutes from a trial site.
Research from the University of Cincinnati reveals that female fat tissue contains more mitochondria, providing protection against obesity and metabolic diseases. The study suggests a link between mitochondrial gene Ndufv2 and lower incidence of complications such as diabetes and high cholesterol.
A pilot program in North Carolina found that offering incentive cash cards to adults who receive or drive someone to receive their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine significantly increases vaccination rates. The study suggests that guaranteed financial incentives can be an effective strategy to promote COVID-19 vaccination.
Researchers discovered that an insect digestive enzyme removes sugar from a plant defense compound, promoting larva growth on dandelion plants containing the compound. This process also leads to the larva avoiding plants with high concentrations of the compound.
A randomized controlled trial found that adding genotypic resistance testing to routine care didn't improve virologic suppression among HIV patients with first-line antiretroviral therapy failure in public-sector clinics in Uganda and South Africa. The findings highlight the need for effective interventions for persons with virologic f...
A research group has identified conformers of ethyl peroxy radicals using vacuum ultraviolet photochemistry, providing important data for online detection of peroxy radicals and their isomers. The results show that the gauche conformer has a favorable Franck-Condon factor in ionization transitions.
A new study revealed that global guidance for preventing Surgical Site Infections (SSI) is not effective and needs revision. The FALCON trial found no superiority of interventions like alcoholic chlorhexidine skin preparation and triclosan coated sutures over lower-cost alternatives.
University of Rochester researchers have developed a novel three-component cross-coupling reaction using iron catalysts, which could potentially bring iron to the front of the class. The reaction enables faster and less expensive synthesis of previously difficult-to-make drug-like compounds in a single step.
Mangroves have evolved a remarkable resistance to stress in harsh ocean environments. Researchers decoded the genome of Bruguiera gymnorhiza and found that it regulates genes to cope with stress, using adaptive epigenetic changes to survive.
A new study finds that vapor pressure deficit has a significant impact on the global terrestrial carbon cycle. Researchers led by Dr. Bin He and Dr. Wenping Yuan confirmed this finding using satellite remote sensing and modeling approaches.
The Obesity Society's 39th Annual Meeting presents research on COVID-19 and its effects on obesity, including increased childhood obesity among severe cases. Researchers also examine changes in healthcare access for bariatric surgery patients and the effectiveness of telemedicine for weight management.
A survey study found that nearly 1 in 18 US nurses (5.5%) considered suicide within the past year, with burnout and depression symptoms being independent risk factors for suicidal ideation.
A new study reveals that young adults experienced significant losses during the pandemic, including missed social events and inability to say goodbye in person. Researchers collected stories from college students who reflected on their earliest and most significant losses regarding COVID-19.
Researchers uncover nitric oxide's dual effects on pathogens: direct destruction and prevention of excessive immune response. This discovery could lead to new treatments for infections and inflammatory diseases.
Researchers at Aarhus University identify how type 2 diabetes alters skeletal muscle stem cells, forming fat and scar tissue that can lead to organ failure. Treatment with metformin may reduce this process, offering new hope for managing the disease's complications.
A recent study reveals that social gatherings among unvaccinated students during the 2021 NCAA March Madness basketball tournament led to increased COVID-19 infections in a university community. The research, published in JAMA Network Open, suggests that these gatherings occurred eight days after the final game.
Research finds that white Americans perceive a threat to their culture when presented with changing demographics in hypothetical neighborhoods and schools. This perception fuels fears of foreign cultural threat from racial and ethnic minorities, contributing to the persistence of segregation.
Researchers from Osaka University found that SARS-CoV-2 binds to a cell-surface protein whose expression is promoted by high blood insulin levels in older, obese, and diabetic individuals. Regulating blood insulin levels may help lower COVID-19 risk by reducing GRP78 expression.
Researchers have recorded the sharpest images of living bacteria, revealing a complex architecture that makes them harder to kill by antibiotics. The study found that bacteria with protective outer layers may have stronger and weaker spots on their surface.
A new study found that the brainstem plays a key role in modulating pain signals in the spinal cord based on expectations, with increased activity linked to the placebo effect and decreased activity to the nocebo effect.
A preclinical study found that blocking the Bach1 protein slowed brain cell deterioration in Parkinson's disease. The researchers identified a potent inhibitor of Bach1 called HPPE, which protected cells from inflammation and oxidative stress, and showed promise as a potential therapeutic target.
A new study published in Ecological Applications demonstrates rapid expansion of restored eelgrass plots and recovery of ecosystem functions, providing improved habitat for fish and invertebrates. The study shows that restored plots can recover near or at the level seen in natural eelgrass meadows within a few years.
Researchers revealed that β-lactam antibiotics like penicillin kill MRSA by forming small holes in the cell wall, which gradually enlarge and lead to bacterial death. This discovery provides new avenues for treatment developments against antibiotic-resistant superbugs.
A study in the Atlantic Rainforest detected high mortality rates among tiny frogs known as pumpkin toadlets infected with the chytrid fungus. The infection causes a physiological imbalance leading to death from a heart attack. Climate change and drought may exacerbate the threat to terrestrial amphibians.
A team of scientists led by Associate Professor Nicola Allen found that astrocyte signaling is directly related to each stage of neuronal development. The researchers determined that astrocytes respond to neurotransmitters produced by neurons to control the timing of signal production, instructing neuronal growth and development.
A review and meta-analysis of 17 studies found a significant increase in cannabis vaping among adolescents in the US and Canada. The study reported nearly 200,000 participants, with a doubling of reported vaping prevalence over the eight-year period.
Researchers at University of Michigan developed a method to predict EV battery life by measuring internal resistance, providing a quick and inexpensive step in development. This approach uses low-level charge measurements to estimate battery lifespan, potentially reducing testing time from weeks to seconds.
A study of young Swedish adults found that over one in four had SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies, but fewer had measurable levels of memory B and T cells compared to other age groups. The researchers will continue to study long COVID and vaccination effects on immunity.
A Quebec research team conducted the first-ever study to examine the long-term protective effect of the BCG vaccine against COVID-19. Despite previous studies suggesting a correlation between childhood vaccination status and lower mortality rates, the researchers found no long-term protective effect of BCG against COVID-19.
A new research discovery at Monash University has found a way to make antibiotics more effective against 'superbugs' by attaching chemoattractants to antibiotics, enabling the recruitment of immune cells and improving killing ability. The findings have shown a 2-fold increase in effectiveness with lower doses.
A study by University of Toronto researchers found that using prescription stimulant medications increased the risk of cardiovascular events by 40% in older adults within the first 30 days. The risk was highest during initial use, but decreased over time as patients stopped taking the medication.
Researchers at Osaka University analyzed data from over 200 health-related traits and diseases in an Asian population to identify specific genomic loci related to medical indications. The study found 14,000 genomic loci of phenotypic significance, including 5,000 novel discoveries.
Researchers discovered that a lower dose of the first shot, followed by a full-dose booster, significantly improved SARS-CoV-2 vaccine potency in mice. This approach, which involves an extended prime-boost interval, may lead to more robust and durable immune responses.
A study on a critically endangered primate species has discovered categorical rhythms in its songs, similar to those found in human music. The researchers recorded indri songs over a period of twelve years and found both 1:1 and 1:2 rhythmic categories, as well as ritardando effects.
A study by the University of Pennsylvania and Indiana University found that a nanozyme therapy, combining ferumoxytol and hydrogen peroxide, significantly reduced the buildup of harmful dental plaque and targeted bacteria responsible for tooth decay. The treatment effectively killed Streptococcus mutans bacteria while leaving other ora...
The BICEP3 experiment has ruled out several popular inflation models, including some motivated by string theory. The findings suggest that the correct model will be slightly more complicated than those ruled out, but still offer a wide range of viable alternatives.
Researchers at Duke University used mini ecosystems to test the effects of warming on bacteria-eating protists. They found that simple measurements of species traits could predict their response to temperature, shedding light on how climate change will alter microbial communities and influence the pace of global warming.
Researchers developed an interactive system using floor projections that respond to the player's movements to encourage children's imagination and engagement. The system was evaluated in a study, revealing that unrealistic interactions stimulate children's imaginations more than realistic interactions.
A new method uses carbon dioxide, water, and food-grade citric acid to extract rare-earth metals from coal ash without damaging the environment. This technique increases a national resource while making coal ash cleaner and less toxic.
Researchers developed a graphene-based electrode, the sutrode, to modulate spleen function and immune response in diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and sepsis. The device can control different terminal nerves, increasing precision in organ function regulation.
A new approach evaluates vaporization enthalpies of alkylaromatic compounds and their derivatives, showing high accuracy compared to experimental methods. The method uses additivity principles and accounts for non-additive effects due to π-conjugation and intermolecular hydrogen bonding.
Researchers at TU Wien have successfully explained the electronic structure of nickelates, a new class of superconductors. By comparing theory and experiment, they determined important parameters of these materials, paving the way for improving their superconductivity at higher temperatures.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new synthesis process that increases the number of holes in p-type III-nitride semiconductor materials, leading to more efficient LEDs and lasers. This breakthrough could also help address the long-lasting problem called the 'green gap' in LED technology.
The USPSTF report describes methods used to identify recommendations with sex or gender components and propose an approach to making recommendations respectful of gender diversity. The task force aims to clarify the populations for which these recommendations should apply.
A study published in Molecular Systems Biology reveals that tumour cells resistant to treatment exhibit 'metabolic and epigenetic memory' of the tumour state. This finding highlights the importance of glycolysis in sustaining cellular metabolism and provides a potential therapeutic target for preventing breast cancer recurrence.
SourceEMBO·JournalMolecular Systems Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 25, 2021
Researchers at MIT and UNH find that binary neutron star mergers produce two to 100 times more heavy metals than neutron star-black hole mergers. The study suggests that binary neutron stars are a likely cosmic source for gold, platinum, and other heavy metals.
Researchers have developed a ferritin-based nanomedicine that targets diverse leukemia types, improving therapeutic efficacy and reducing toxicity. The nanomedicine delivers arsenic to leukemia cells, enhancing killing effects while minimizing harm to normal tissues.
A new analysis by a researcher at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found a link between large gatherings of unvaccinated county residents and an increase in COVID-19 infections in university communities. The study suggests that vaccinations, surveillance testing, or mitigation measures are essential to reduce the spread of COVID-19...
Researchers at VUB have detected vitamin D deficiency in cremated human remains through the analysis of interglobular dentine. This innovation allows for the identification of past populations' exposure to sunlight and daily activities, shedding new light on environmental and sociocultural factors influencing health.
Researchers at Penn State used traffic cameras and mobile device data to monitor COVID-19 cases in Centre County, PA. Movement data preceded increases in cases, suggesting that behavioral interventions like stay-at-home orders can be effective in controlling transmission.
A Hebrew SeniorLife study provides a novel framework for understanding the social determinants of health that influence the development of delirium in older adults. The framework identifies environmental, historical, and social variables that may protect against or precipitate delirium.
A new study by Baycrest and York University found that studying Spanish improves working memory and executive function in older adults, similar to brain training. The participants reported greater enjoyment of the language learning experience.
Researchers at George Mason University are developing methods to identify and mitigate supply chain disruptions caused by criminal organizations. The team aims to create alert systems and mitigation strategies using machine learning and simulation techniques.
Researchers published safety and efficacy data for a novel nusinersen drug delivery method via subcutaneous intrathecal catheter system (SIC) for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) patients. The study found improvements in arm and hand function, but no significant changes in motor scales or muscle force.
Using data from over 353 million unique observations, researchers found that companies with structured management practices attracted top-flight managers and were able to keep talented workers. This suggests that better-managed firms are growing in terms of employment, and that these firms can influence the entire labor market.
Researchers discovered that SARS-CoV-2 causes an early release of the immune-dampening TGFβ messenger, disrupting the innate immune response. This disruption impairs natural killer cells' ability to eliminate virus-infected cells, leading to severe disease.
A study has identified 20 consistent indicators to support sustainability on U.S. ranches, focusing on ecological, social, and economic aspects. The indicators aim to help ranchers track progress toward sustainability goals and communicate improvements to their operations.
A new study reveals that Black women with low vitamin D levels are at a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer. The research found that those with predicted vitamin D scores in the bottom 25% had a 40% increased risk compared to those in the top 25%.
A computer model developed by the University of Surrey researchers supports Bernard Williams' 40-year-old hypothesis that pressure changes cause fluid in the cavity to 'slosh', generating stress in the spinal cord tissue. The study shows that this process can lead to small cavities gradually expanding down the spinal cord.
A UArizona-led team has discovered nearly 500 ancient ceremonial complexes in southern Mexico, similar to the largest Maya monument Aguada Fénix. The findings suggest that the Olmec civilization played a significant role in shaping the development of the Maya civilization.
Researchers explored superoscillations for nanoimaging and nanometrology, achieving subwavelength focusing and imaging beyond the traditional diffraction limit. This technology combines with deep learning algorithms to increase resolution and accuracy in micro-nano displacement detection.
The University of Surrey has published a paper outlining its plan to reduce absolute carbon emissions by 46% over the next decade and achieve Net-Zero. The paper provides guidance on how other universities can apply the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) and offers ideas for financing emission reduction pathways.
A new study finds that high-dose radiation therapy can lengthen progression-free survival for people with advanced lung cancer when systemic therapy has not fully halted tumor growth or spread. Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) shows promise in treating oligoprogressive, metastatic lung and breast cancer.
A recent study has discovered genetic markers associated with high levels of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in the blood, a toxin linked to sepsis and cardiovascular diseases. The research also found a connection between LPS levels and blood coagulation disorders, such as thromboembolism and stroke.
The Comparing Outcomes of antibiotic Drugs and Appendectomy (CODA) trial found that nearly 7 in 10 patients with antibiotics avoided an appendectomy within three months. By four years, just under 50% had the surgery, suggesting both treatments are safe and valuable to patients differently based on unique symptoms and circumstances.
The proposed reauthorization of the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) has the potential to positively impact parents with substance use disorder and infants with substance exposure. The legislation needs improved implementation to achieve a public health approach, providing tailored guidance and support for states.
A study of 750 UK women veterans found that a high proportion had experienced military adversity, including sexual harassment (22.5%), emotional bullying (22.7%), and physical assault (3.3%). These experiences were linked to various mental health issues, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression.
A study by Ludwig Lausanne reveals how cancer cells convert immune cells into supporters of their growth and survival. The researchers identified β-glucosylceramide as the key lipid triggering this transformation, which can be targeted to slow or reverse tumor progression.