A Scottish study of 435,000 mother-infant pairs found that epidural analgesia during labor is not associated with adverse neonatal or childhood developmental outcomes. The results challenge previous concerns about the impact of epidurals on infant health.
A chatbot tested with 338 individuals showed a 37% increase in positive views of vaccination and a 20% decrease in vaccine refusal after just a few minutes of interaction. The study suggests that the chatbot could be an effective tool to reduce vaccine hesitancy.
Researchers at Salk Institute discovered that long-lived mitochondrial proteins remain stable for an extended period, protecting them from damage. This stability allows these proteins to maintain mitochondrial function even when new ones are synthesized, providing protection against errors and energy-conservation benefits.
A recent study found that whale sharks in Panama may originate from the Arabian Gulf and Western Indian Ocean, highlighting their ability to travel long distances. This discovery underscores the need for transboundary conservation measures like marine corridors to protect this endangered species.
A new breath test developed by Ohio State researchers can identify COVID-19 infections in critically ill patients with high accuracy. The non-invasive technology uses nanosensors to detect specific biomarkers in exhaled breath, allowing for rapid screening and exclusion of non-infected patients.
Researchers found that in dry years, birds funnel into riparian environments due to increased greenness, leading to overcrowding and decreased bird populations. The study highlights the importance of understanding how birds respond to climate change for conservation purposes.
A multi-center study demonstrated improved overall survival and quality of life for inoperable pancreatic cancer patients treated with MRIdian SMART, with a median survival of 26 months. The treatment showed low rates of major adverse events and was more effective than standard radiation therapy.
A multidisciplinary team of researchers used a new X-ray technique to discover zinc-containing nanoparticles lodged within the wooden hull of the Mary Rose, leading to its deterioration. The nanoparticles, likely from anaerobic bacteria, have been found in conjunction with polymer deposits that were added to preserve the ship's remains.
A team of scientists at KAUST has developed a novel approach for cleaning biofouled membranes in anaerobic bioreactors, combining UV irradiation with bacteriophages to eliminate bacteria. The method improved upon individual treatments and was proven effective over four cleaning cycles.
Researchers at Osaka Prefecture University create a high-capacity Li2S-based positive electrode using an oxidation-tolerant solid electrolyte, bringing all-solid-state batteries closer to reality. The study found that the electrochemical window of solid electrolytes must exceed 0.2V for high energy capacity.
A new diagnostic model developed by Rutgers researchers can predict whether patients with generalized epilepsy will respond to treatment with 80% accuracy. The study combines electroencephalogram (EEG) data with clinical observations to determine prognosis, providing valuable information for clinicians.
Researchers develop a more accurate mathematical model to predict solar cell output power, considering degradation and external factors. The new model will aid policymakers in making informed decisions on solar power installations.
Scientists at Cornell University have developed a method to optimize turbine spacing in offshore wind farms, reducing wake effects and increasing power production. The research aims to support the rapid expansion of offshore wind energy in the US and Europe, with potential to generate over 7,000 terawatt hours per year.
A study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases found that COVID-19 vaccines reduce the risk of infection with the delta variant, but vaccinated people can still spread the virus in household settings. Vaccination remains effective at preventing severe disease and deaths from COVID-19.
A recent study by Amber Alhadeff has uncovered a hypothalamic-to-hindbrain circuit that suppresses pain sensation in hungry mice, enabling them to seek food. The research also highlights the rapid communication between gut nutrients and brain via an understudied pathway.
Researchers at the University of Queensland have developed a method to produce unbreakable screens using liquid-phase sintering of lead halide perovskites and metal-organic framework glasses. This breakthrough could revolutionize the display industry with virtually indestructible displays.
Itepekimab, a novel monoclonal antibody, has been found to be safe and effective in treating moderate-to-severe asthma. In a phase 2 trial, it significantly improved lung function and reduced asthma control events compared to placebo.
Researchers developed a new NMR spectroscopic method to map IDP function more easily, fast, and accurately. The method sheds light on mechanisms of diseases like Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and type 2 diabetes.
Researchers have identified key genes involved in osteoarthritis, a leading cause of pain and disability worldwide. The study, conducted on over 800,000 individuals, sheds light on the genetic factors contributing to the disease and may pave the way for new treatments.
Scientists fabricate 1D and 2D boron sulfide (BS) nanosheets with unique electronic properties that can be controlled by changing the number of layers. The bandgap energy decreases as more layers are added, making BS a potential n-type semiconductor material.
Researchers developed a combined approach to amplify the large-scale biosynthetic gene cluster, resulting in a 9.59-fold increase in bleomycin production. The method uses a ZouA-dependent DNA amplification system and double-reporters-guided recombinant selection.
Researchers have developed a fast and energy-efficient laser-writing method for producing high-density nanostructures in silica glass, enabling 5D optical data storage that is more than 10,000 times denser than Blue-Ray disc storage technology. The new approach can write tens of gigabytes of data in a reasonable time, with the ability ...
A new study reveals that increasing human wellbeing and improving environmental resilience are not always compatible, especially when understood too simplistically. The research team argues that a more nuanced approach can help find win-win scenarios, prioritizing both people's livelihoods and the planet's health.
Researchers found that PTSD symptoms peak in women during the first few days of their menstrual cycle, when estradiol levels are low, and decrease near ovulation. This discovery could lead to more accurate diagnoses and treatments for women with PTSD, who have been underrepresented in previous research.
Researchers used machine learning and genomics to identify molecular markers of resistance to sugarcane yellow leaf disease in over 97 sugarcane genotypes. The study found that energy cane varieties with higher fiber content are more resistant to the disease, paving the way for commercial launches.
A new species of human ancestor, Homo bodoensis, has been named by an international team of researchers, providing clarity to the poorly understood Middle Pleistocene period in human evolution. The new classification resolves long-standing terminology issues and recognizes a direct human ancestor.
A new study led by University of Delaware Associate Professor Kathryn Coyne found that warming temperatures contribute to an increasing number of harmful algal blooms. The study showed that changes in light conditions significantly influence the growth and impact of these algae, particularly for species like Karlodinium veneficum.
Researchers use Juno spacecraft data to characterize Jupiter's atmospheric vortices, including the GRS. The studies find that the storm extends deeper into the planet's atmosphere than expected, with possible connections to Jupiter's interior.
A study found that COVID-19 decreases dendritic cells in the blood, impairing their ability to stimulate T cells. This could make patients more susceptible to secondary infections during recovery. Despite this, patients still generate antibodies and activate a robust immune response against the virus.
Researchers review strategies to enhance Cu-based catalysts' performance in CO2 reduction, including surface structure tuning and local environment regulation. The study aims to overcome current challenges and outline future opportunities for efficient CO2 conversion.
Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed an environmentally friendly process to chemically recycle bio-based plastics into fertilizers. The process, which uses ammonia to break down the plastics, produces nitrogen-rich molecules that can be used as fertilizer, showing promising results in plant growth experiments.
Scientists at Harvard's Wyss Institute create eToeholds to target specific diseases, enabling more precise RNA therapy and diagnostic approaches. The technology, developed by James Collins and his team, uses internal ribosome entry sites to produce proteins only when a cell-specific or viral RNA is present.
A team of researchers, including Elizabeth Tomasino, will investigate the effects of smoke exposure on grapes and wine production. The project aims to provide critical knowledge to grape growers and winery owners affected by widespread wildfire smoke.
A first-of-its-kind data synthesis examines indigenous displacement and land dispossession in the US, shedding light on historical context and future solutions. The analysis, published in Science magazine, highlights the need for more inclusive perspectives to address ongoing critical issues affecting Native American communities.
A new study questions the existence of 'optimism bias,' suggesting that people's positive outlooks are not necessarily irrational. Researchers used a neutral approach to test the theory, finding an optimistic pattern despite neutral examples, casting doubt on previous research methods.
Researchers at the University of Groningen have successfully trapped molecules of strontium fluoride, setting a new record for molecular trapping. This achievement is significant because it allows scientists to investigate the fundamental laws of the universe, including the asymmetry between matter and anti-matter.
A Curtin University study has found a simple and affordable way to test which chemicals are best used to store and supply energy, solving the puzzle of energy storage and supply. The breakthrough method can be performed in a basic lab with minimal equipment, producing full charges that last for at least four days.
A recent study published by the University of Ottawa found that over 1 in 20 Canadian children do not eat lunch on school days, with older kids and those from food-insecure households being the most affected. The study also reveals that children living in food-insecure households are twice as likely to miss lunch compared to their peers.
Researchers recreated superionic ice using advanced tools and found a new phase of matter. The ice has unique properties that make it less dense but darker, and its behavior affects planetary magnetic fields.
A new study by Georgia Institute of Technology researchers found that automation and AI may have a uniformly positive impact on worker well-being, but only partially. The results show that workers facing automation risk experience less stress but worse health and minimal job satisfaction. Notably, high-risk occupations like receptionis...
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that a psoriasis medicine worsened symptoms in patients with severe asthma. The trial tested risankizumab, an injectable treatment for psoriasis, and showed it did not improve asthma symptoms, but rather made them worse.
Jupiter's banded pattern extends deep beneath the clouds, and the appearance of its belts and zones inverts near the base of the water clouds. The planet's microwave emissions reveal a transition zone between five and 10 bars, where the zones become bright and the belts dark.
A new smartphone-based platform detects biomarkers for lung cancer and ketosis/diabetes using fluorescent nanoprobes. The platform provides early warning and visual detection of biomarkers in exhaled breath or blood, offering a convenient and potential method for preliminary monitoring and clinical diagnosis.
A study of over 500,000 COVID-19 patients found those with cancer who received anticancer treatment before diagnosis were at higher risk of intensive care unit admission and hospitalization. Patients without recent cancer treatment had similar or better outcomes than those without cancer.
A review and meta-analysis of 32 studies involving 4,900 participants found that SARS-CoV-2 vaccination response was lower in patients with end-stage kidney disease receiving dialysis. Diabetes may be a risk factor for nonresponse to vaccination.
Researchers studied ozone depletion's impact on iodine concentrations in Antarctic ice cores, revealing a sharp reduction from 1975 to 2012. The decrease can be attributed to stratospheric ozone concentration loss, leading to increased UV radiation and altered geochemical cycles.
Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham have developed a method to identify non-responding tumors using hypoxia imaging, which shows promise for improving response rates. Investigational new drug evofosfamide was found beneficial in treating hypoxic tumors with immunotherapy.
A team of researchers at the University of Konstanz has developed a new method for producing polyethylene with added polar groups, which enhances its degradability while maintaining its durability. The new plastic exhibits slow chain degradation in simulated sunlight, unlike conventional polyethylenes.
A Washington State University study found that low- and middle-income parents increased their spending on education, clothing, recreation, and electronics for their children after receiving lump sum payments. In contrast, high-income parents showed no significant increase in child-related expenditures.
A study published in Nature Communications identifies a specific form of autism caused by an excessive number of synapses in the cerebral cortex, potentially guiding the development of future treatments. The research found that inhibiting mTOR protein activity can restore synaptic function and connectivity.
Academics developed an agent-based model to simulate COVID-19 spread in Cox's Bazar refugee settlement, finding mask-wearing highly effective in slowing the spread. The study suggests that handling positive cases in isolation has little impact compared to home isolation for individuals with mild symptoms.
Researchers from Tokyo Medical and Dental University have developed a non-invasive imaging technique using blue light to identify areas affected by diabetic retinopathy. The study found that blue images obtained through multicolor widefield scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (SLO) can reveal hyporeflective areas indicative of damage associa...
A new visual analytics tool, Sibyl, was developed to help child welfare specialists understand machine learning predictions. The tool uses bar graphs to show how specific factors of a case contribute to the predicted risk that a child will be removed from their home within two years.
Recent studies have shed light on the activation of pattern recognition receptors during infection with obligate intracellular bacteria. The authors summarize the clinical features of these infections and discuss recent advances in host recognition, highlighting knowledge gaps in understanding innate immunity.
Researchers tracked black-tailed deer before, during, and after the Mendocino Complex Fire, finding that all 18 deer survived. Despite burned areas with no vegetation, most deer returned home within hours, potentially due to their loyalty to habitat. However, some deer's body condition declined as they expanded their range.
A new study published in Applied Ergonomics found that the cognitive demands of wearing a low-back exoskeleton can hinder its mechanical advantages, offsetting benefits in reducing spine loading. The researchers used ambulatory brain imaging and connectivity analysis to demonstrate how increased cognitive response to tasks can cancel o...
A new Simon Fraser University study found that reducing vessel activity is crucial for the survival of endangered West Coast southern resident killer whales. The research suggests that these whales spend most of their time foraging in the absence of ships and boats to meet their daily energy needs.
A genetic signature has been discovered that can identify drivers of poor outcomes in advanced estrogen-receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer. The signature detects the presence of mutations and translocations in the ER gene that confer tumor independence from estrogen, making it resistant to current therapies.
The study finds that universal access to clean cooking services might not be achieved by 2050, despite progress on other SDGs. Low-income households in sub-Saharan Africa and developing Asia are most at risk of not being able to afford clean cooking.
Leaders of high-containment labs argue for a nuanced approach to regulation, drawing from existing practices and considering human and financial costs. They advocate for organizational leaders to take responsibility for lab safety and security, reducing the need for government-level oversight.