A study of 80 children aged 6-10 found that young children struggle with torso control in virtual reality environments, whereas adults can easily navigate using simple body movements. The results contradict the current understanding of motor control development, suggesting that VR can disrupt traditional coordination strategies.
A Japanese collaborative team presents a novel method for tuning hydrodynamic interfacial instability through a thermodynamic parameter controlling liquid–liquid phase separation. They successfully predict pattern changes of a growing interface by applying the maximum entropy production principle.
The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry publishes a special issue to strengthen the rights and voices of older people worldwide. The issue aims to reduce the burden of ageism, mentalism and ableism, which currently permeates virtually every aspect of older persons' lives.
A study of over 19,000 bariatric surgery patients found men are five times as likely to die within 30 days after the procedure compared to women. Men's long-term mortality is also almost three times higher due to comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
The KIMM research team developed a flexible, stretchable battery that bends and stretches like a snake, offering potential applications in wearable devices, soft robots, and disaster relief. The battery's design mimics the structure of snake scales, providing stability and flexibility.
Researchers have identified two possible Mott-insulating pictures in magnetic superexchange couplings of Sr2IrO4, shedding light on the mechanism for superconductivity in doped La2CuO4. The study used different theories to analyze the magnetic interactions in the strong-to-intermediate coupling regime.
Researchers have developed a potential blood test to diagnose Alzheimer's disease using atomic force microscopy technology. The test analyzes protein fibers made up of beta-amyloid peptides and tau proteins, which accumulate in patients' blood cells, indicating the stage of the disease.
Researchers will conduct participatory research with transit workers to identify ways to reduce occupational health disparities and improve preparedness for public-facing workers. The project aims to improve safe working environments and build resilience among frontline workers.
Researchers found that patients with Type 2 diabetes who took GLP-1R agonists within six months prior to their COVID-19 diagnosis had a decreased risk of hospitalization, respiratory complications, and death. The study suggests these anti-inflammatory medications may offer protective effects against severe COVID-19 outcomes.
Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics researchers propose dual active site strategy to isolate dehydrogenation and oxidation in oxidative dehydrogenation of ethane, resulting in near 100% ethene selectivity. This approach could be extended to multiple oxidation reactions plagued by over-oxidation.
Researchers at the Institute for Basic Science have developed a foldable quantum dot LED that can be transformed into various complex 3D structures, such as butterflies and pyramids. The technology employs selective laser-etching to create precise curvature lines, allowing for stable light-emitting performance even after repeated folding.
Research confirms two separate tiger shark populations in the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific oceans, despite trans-oceanic migrations. This long-term separation has resulted in distinct genetic diversity among Hawaiian and Indian Ocean tiger sharks, emphasizing the need for tailored management plans and targeted conservation efforts.
A team of international researchers has unraveled the inner workings of C5aR2, a key receptor involved in inflammation and COVID-19. The study provides an additional opportunity for therapeutic targeting with new drug molecules to block its activation and inflammation response.
Researchers at DTU Health Tech have invented a one-pot assay, NISDA, for rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA without the need for enzyme-based methods. The assay detects low concentrations of RNA in 30 minutes and has shown high accuracy and sensitivity.
Researchers have developed a revolutionary wireless photoelectric implant that can control the activity of spinal neurons, enabling the study of neural function and the development of new treatments for neurological disorders. The breakthrough technology uses pulses of light to stimulate or inhibit specific spinal-cord neurons, potenti...
Researchers developed a new system that can detect silicon solar panel defects even in full sunlight, making it easier to keep solar panels working optimally. The system uses a unique combination of hardware and software to image and analyze defects quickly and accurately, regardless of lighting conditions.
A new study found that lockdown disrupted people's daily thoughts, reducing future thinking but increasing social thoughts when interacting with others. Researchers also discovered older adults experienced more detailed thoughts during virtual interactions compared to in-person ones.
A study by Wim Thiery and colleagues reveals that babies born in 2020 will experience 2-7 times more extreme climate events than those born in 1960. Limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius reduces the burden, but younger generations still face unprecedented impacts, particularly in low-income countries.
Researchers found that women over 70 and men under 50 with hypertension are at a higher risk of uncontrolled blood pressure. This study highlights the need for increased awareness about uncontrolled hypertension among these groups, and further research is needed to understand the underlying causes.
Tropical rainforests have uneven biodiversity due to geological history and climate. Researchers used a new model to simulate species diversification, finding that historical dynamics of mountain building and climate change drove biodiversity distribution rather than current climate factors.
A recent cohort study found that couples from Japan and the Netherlands share similar lifestyle habits, body shape, blood pressure, and disease incidences. This suggests that healthy choices and mutual encouragement can help prevent cardiometabolic risks.
Researchers at Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) have designed an ultralow power artificial synapse for next-generation AI systems. The team's innovation uses a nanoscale deposit-only-metal-electrode fabrication process, achieving an all-time-low energy consumption of 1.8 pJ per pair-pulse-based synaptic event.
A new study found that four distinct episodes of volcanic activity coincided with significant environmental changes, including the Late Triassic Carnian Pluvial Episode, which drove animal and plant diversification. The research suggests that large volcanic eruptions had a profound impact on global temperature and humidity.
Neuroscientists at Lieber Institute for Brain Development discover similar cell types across human and mouse brains associated with reward and addiction. The study provides molecular profiles of cell types in key regions, including the nucleus accumbens and amygdala.
Researchers found that dancing and psychedelic drugs are associated with feelings of awe and social bonding in rave attendees. This study suggests that these experiences can be beneficial for therapeutic settings, potentially reducing stigma around psychedelic use.
A recent survey-based study reveals racial and ethnic differences in cannabis use following the legalization of recreational cannabis. The study found that cannabis use increased disproportionately among Black and Hispanic populations compared to White individuals.
A new form of expanded dialysis has been found to improve the quality of life for patients with chronic kidney disease, including increased energy and better sleep. The treatment, which removes a broader range of toxins from the body, was tested in a clinical trial and shown to reduce inflammation and improve overall well-being.
A study by Columbia University found that recreational cannabis laws led to increased past-year and past-month cannabis use among Hispanic, Other and non-Hispanic white individuals, but not among non-Hispanic Black people or those aged 12-20. The researchers also highlighted persistent racial disparities in cannabis arrests and incarce...
Researchers at the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science have developed a novel targeting chaperon protein HSP70 inhibitor QL47 to treat FLT3-ITD-positive acute myeloid leukemia. The study found that QL47 induces FLT3-ITD protein degradation and cell apoptosis, extending animal survival in mice bone marrow engraftment models.
Researchers found that tobacco hawkmoths learn to prefer certain plants for egg-laying after experiencing successful oviposition, leading to improved efficiency. The moths also remember flower odors guiding them to nectar sources, but not through their proboscis' olfactory neurons.
A new study found that people of normal weight with type 2 diabetes can achieve remission by losing weight. Eight out of 12 participants achieved remission after losing 10-15% of their body weight, with levels of fat in the liver and pancreas falling substantially and insulin-producing cells restored. The study supports the idea that e...
Scientists have elucidated and visualized the 3D molecular structure of the melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R), a crucial component of appetite regulation. The study's findings provide insights into the protein's interaction with hormones and potential targets for drug interventions to treat severe obesity.
Researchers analyzed data from nearly 3 million adults and found that those with 'metabolically healthy obesity' had a higher risk of developing heart failure and atrial fibrillation. However, they were not at increased risk for heart attacks, strokes, or cardiovascular deaths.
A recent study from Aarhus University found that the brain experiences musical phrases as complete when they end in uncertainty, allowing it to save completed phrases for future recall. This challenges traditional theories of auditory perception, suggesting the brain is a prediction machine.
The number of autism diagnoses in England has skyrocketed by 787% over the past two decades, driven primarily by increased recognition and improved diagnosis for females. Researchers analyzed GP records and found that the greatest rises were among adults, with females making up most of the increase.
A new study from Aston University and New York University found that industrial firms in Beijing did not receive disproportionate economic benefits from hosting the 2008 Summer Olympics. The research suggests that SMEs have limited to no positive impact on the local economy.
Researchers at the University of Göttingen have discovered a novel type of ordering effect generated and sustained by steady shear deformation. They found that under sufficient driving force, an interesting ordering effect emerges, revealing a hidden order in the force directions.
A team of Harvard researchers created an integrated pipeline, STAMPScreen, to help genetic engineers identify target genes and perform screening studies. The protocol combines computational tools with lab experiments to quickly and efficiently test gene function in living cells.
Astronomers observe a tidal disruption event caused by an intermediate-mass black hole consuming a star, providing the first measurements of its mass and spin. The findings shed light on the elusive category of intermediate black holes, which may account for most black holes in galaxy centers.
Researchers from King's College London warn that previously published solar exposure guidelines for optimal vitamin D synthesis may not be accurate. A new study suggests a simple correction is needed to the wavelength dependency for vitamin D production, which could impact risk/benefit calculations for sunlight exposure.
A study finds that N95 respirators can significantly reduce hospital visits due to wildfire smoke exposure. The researchers estimated a 22-39% reduction in hospitalizations if N95s were widely used.
A national plan aims to restore habitat on marginal farming land, fighting climate change and preventing species loss while putting money in farmers' pockets. The proposal is estimated to cost $2 billion annually over 30 years but would generate $41 billion in net present value.
Researchers developed a unified framework for high-quality NLOS reconstructions using Signal-object collaborative regularization (SOCR) method. The technique recovers location, shape, albedo, and normal of targets with clear local structures, sharp boundaries, and little noise, even in heavy noise conditions.
An international team of scientists has resolved a half-century-old mystery by discovering that ancient burrow traces in Australian quartzite were made by crustaceans around 40 million years ago. The discovery was made possible by analyzing unusual radioactive minerals in the sand, which revealed that the burrows were more than a billi...
Princess Margaret Cancer Centre researchers have developed a highly sensitive test to detect human papillomavirus (HPV) in the bloodstream. The new sequencing method detected HPV circulating tumour DNA at much lower levels than previous tests, making it possible to monitor disease progression and tailor treatment.
A long-term analysis of NRG-RTOG 9804 shows breast radiation following lumpectomy significantly reduces the incidence of ipsilateral breast recurrence (IBR) for 'low risk' ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). The study found a significant reduction in IBR with radiation, with lower rates observed at 10 and 15 years compared to observation.
Research suggests that adults with elevated blood pressure prefer monitoring their blood pressure at home, rather than in a clinical setting. This is because home blood pressure monitoring is convenient and easy to do, without disrupting daily activities.
A large UK Biobank study has found that smoking is highly likely to worsen the severity of COVID-19 and increase the risk of dying from the infection. The study combined observational and genetic data to strengthen the evidence base, revealing a causal effect between smoking and COVID-19 severity.
Researchers found that rusty crayfish exhibit increased diet specialization and boldness in mid-abundance lakes, where individual behaviors become more diverse. This specialization can lead to impacts on spawning fish populations and ecosystem dynamics.
A new study published in the Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics suggests that boys who participate in sports in early childhood are less likely to experience depressive and anxiety symptoms later. The study also found that boys who exhibit higher levels of depressive and anxious symptoms during middle childhood are subseq...
Researchers found that adopting the DASH diet, losing weight and improving aerobic fitness can lower blood pressure significantly. The study suggests lifestyle modifications can help people with resistant hypertension successfully lose weight and increase their physical activity.
Researchers at UCI and NASA JPL found that a thinning of the ice melange, a slushy concoction of windblown snow, iceberg debris, and frozen seawater, is a major driver of ice shelf collapse. The study revealed that melange thinning can lead to rapid retreat of Antarctica's ice shelves.
The study proposes a new fluorescence imaging window, extending the near-infrared range to improve image quality. Simulation results show that using PbS/CdS core-shell quantum dots with specific peak emission wavelengths can reduce background attenuation and enhance image clarity.
A study of ancient civilizations and climate change found that investing in resilient landscapes can help both urban and rural communities survive climatic stress. Long-term investment in soil fertility, water storage, and biodiversity can enable tolerance to periods of climate variability.
A new study published in PNAS suggests that China's declining birth rate and aging population may not negatively impact future prosperity. The researchers found that higher education levels among women can lead to increased labor force participation, potentially offsetting the negative effects of population aging.
Research presented at the American Heart Association’s Hypertension Scientific Sessions 2021 found that exposure to military sexual trauma significantly influences veterans' physical health. The study screened over 1.2 million veterans and reported nearly 33,900 cases of military sexual trauma, with 65% being women.
A new handheld screening device has been shown to accurately detect amblyopia (lazy eye) in children, with a sensitivity rate of 100% and specificity rate of 85%. Early detection is key to treating the condition, which can affect school performance and lifelong visual acuity.
A team of scientists from the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research found that three free-ranging cheetahs in the Namib Desert died after feeding on a mountain zebra infected with anthrax. The study highlights previously unknown risks to cheetah populations in the desert.
Scientists from St. Petersburg Electrotechnical University LETI have developed a new method to calibrate strapdown inertial navigation systems, reducing the standard deviation by 15-fold. This breakthrough enables more accurate measurements required for reliable results in defense and space industries.
A research group identified a series of suppressor of siRNA factors that inhibit endogenous siRNA production in C. elegans. The study found that the accumulation of misprocessed ribosomal RNA fragments induces the production of ribosomal siRNAs, which regulate rRNA levels by activating the nuclear RNA interference pathway.
A study of former journalists found that those who left their jobs voluntarily reported positive well-being and relief, while those who were laid off experienced depression, shock, and financial difficulties. The study also found that the skills honed as a journalist are highly transferable to new careers.
A systematic review found spatial neglect to be prevalent among 29% of unilateral stroke survivors, with higher rates in right brain strokes and ecological assessments. This condition impairs cognitive and motor functions, slowing rehabilitation progress and increasing risk for injury.
Researchers developed novel functional biochar composites using red mud and corn straw to treat acidic dye wastewater. The FBCs showed excellent adsorption capacity on acidic dyes due to their high surface area.
Research published in BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health found that higher combined fruit and veg intake is significantly associated with better mental health in secondary schoolchildren. A nutritious breakfast and lunch are also linked to emotional wellbeing across the age spectrum.
Researchers have identified a way to restore the effectiveness of drugs in clinical trials for treating AML by using human alpha(1)-acid glycoprotein (AGP) as a 'decoy' to bind and inhibit FLT3-mutated leukemia cells. The approach has potential for improving patient outcomes, particularly for patients with FLT3-mutated AML.
Researchers have successfully replicated the 'Zen stone' phenomenon, where stones are naturally placed atop pedestals of ice, shedding light on sublimation's influence. This process, which changes solid to gaseous form without a liquid intermediary, is revealed to shape natural structures in unique ways.
SourceCNRS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 27, 2021
A new metrology instrument and techniques have been developed to characterize strongly curved high-quality X-ray mirrors, enabling unprecedented accuracy. The technique, known as speckle angular measurement (SAM), can push the precision of slope error measurements down to 20nrad rms.
Researchers analyzed data from 556 health systems nationwide to find common forms of low-value care, such as unnecessary tests and treatments. Systems with smaller primary care physician shares, no teaching hospitals, and more minority patients were more likely to use these services.
Researchers found that methamphetamine, cocaine, and nicotine withdrawal share similar features in mouse brains, including reduced modularity and increased functional connectivity. This reorganization may contribute to the addictive nature of psychostimulants.
A new computational method allows for highly accurate simulation of hydrogen storage in silicon-carbide nanotubes, which is crucial for achieving the UN's net zero emissions target. The method corrects limitations of conventional predictions by incorporating van der Waals forces.
A Kaiser Permanente analysis of over 100,000 pregnancies in Northern California found a significant increase in cannabis use early in pregnancy after the pandemic began. The rate of cannabis use rose from 6.75% to 8.14% during the pandemic.
Camille Goblet is conducting genomic analysis to strengthen zoo management and save the critically endangered black rhinoceros from extinction. The project will aid in establishing pedigree and understanding species' adaptability to different environments, informing strategies to conserve the species.
Spotted hyenas remove 207 tons of animal carcass waste annually, preventing five infections of anthrax and bovine tuberculosis. This service saves the city $52,000 annually in treatment costs and livestock losses avoided.
Researchers propose a novel key distribution scheme based on mode-shift keying chaos synchronization to overcome limitations of laser transition time, achieving 0.7503 Gbit/s rate with high security. The method uses Fabry-Perot lasers and random drive source to generate chaotic waveforms, which are then quantized to produce random bits.
Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin have achieved a new world record in materials research by using X-ray microscopy to create 1000 three-dimensional images per second. This allows for the non-destructive study of fast processes in materials, enabling researchers to gain insights into material properties and behavior.
The NSF-backed project, I-ACED, integrates internships and research experiences to prepare students for careers in engineering. The grant will support 220 students from low-income backgrounds seeking master's degrees in STEM disciplines.
Researchers used extensive 2D and 3D broadband seismic reflection data to visualize and understand the subsurface structures of the Orphan Basin. The study provides context for future assessments of source rock, reservoir, and seal strata in oil and gas exploration.
Researchers developed VarSAn, a computational tool that analyzes SNPs to predict disease pathways, including breast and prostate cancer. The tool uses network analysis to identify perturbed pathways, offering a new approach to understanding genetic variation.
A team of researchers from FAU has investigated the timing of treatment in autoimmune diseases and found that early intervention can have a major impact on disease progression. By targeting B cells, which produce autoantibodies and influence other immune cells, researchers were able to prevent or delay severe organ damage.
A new study reveals that male giraffes have higher social connectedness than females, with males forming more acquaintances and older males having shorter social paths. This complexity could impact conservation efforts for endangered giraffes.
Researchers used computer modeling to study prethermal discrete time crystals (DTCs) using classical physics, not quantum physics. They found that a simpler approach can be used to understand the properties of DTCs, which are highly complex physical systems.
An international team of scientists suggests that early humans in New Guinea collected cassowary eggs near maturity and then raised the birds to adulthood, with evidence supporting this behavior dating back 18,000 years. The researchers used eggshells to determine the developmental stage of ancient embryos/chicks when the eggs cracked.
A 21-year study found that adults with diabetes who experienced nighttime blood pressure increases had double the risk of dying compared to those whose blood pressure 'dipped' during sleep. Non-dipping and reverse dipping are associated with increased cardiovascular complications and death.
The research team demonstrated III-V photodetectors grown on SOI, featuring large 3 dB bandwidths exceeding 40 GHz and low dark currents of 0.55 nA. The PDs have high responsivity and adjustable photocurrents.
Researchers at KAUST developed bright red indium gallium nitride microlight-emitting diodes that emit light across the entire visible-light spectrum. The devices have a high output power of 1.76 milliwatts per square millimeter, outperforming previous devices.
A new study published in the journal BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health found that eating well is associated with better mental wellbeing in children. Children who consumed five or more portions of fruit and veg a day had the highest scores for mental wellbeing.
A randomized controlled trial found the live shingles vaccine to be safe and effective in preventing shingles in immunosuppressed patients taking TNFis. The vaccine showed robust immunogenicity responses, but variable cell-mediated responses that may require booster vaccinations.
Research from the University of East Anglia found that communities living within Amazonian Sustainable-Use Protected Areas enjoy better access to essential services, including healthcare, education, and electricity. These areas also lead to improved livelihoods, with household wealth and life satisfaction increasing significantly.
Researchers develop a new method to perform logic operations more efficiently and reliably using magnonics. Nanostructured antiferromagnetic wires are well-suited for this purpose, enabling quick and low-energy computation.
A Boston University study of 2,000 participants found that moderate to vigorous exercise significantly improves fitness levels compared to walking. Higher intensity activity is also more efficient in improving lower-level exertion and sustaining peak performance.
The NSF has renewed the Physics of Living Systems graduate research network at Rice for five years, connecting students and educators across institutions to share resources and data. The award will fund local expenses and training programs, as well as efforts to grow faculty and student numbers in the field.
Researchers at Texas Biomedical Research Institute developed 'reporter viruses' that allow for real-time tracking of SARS-CoV-2 spread in cells and animal models. This enables faster screening of potential anti-viral drugs, vaccines, and neutralizing antibodies.
Researchers at Incheon National University have developed a compact and robust optical sensor that can convert light to digital signals, suitable for flexible electronics. The new design architecture enables superior chip area efficiency and large-area scalability.
A recent study by Penn State and Boston University found that ride-hailing services may decrease or increase traffic congestion depending on the day of the week and regional public transportation use. The researchers analyzed data from over 10,000 vehicle detector station units across California, finding a 0.5% decrease in traffic cong...
A Canadian study found that children and youth are at low risk of severe acute COVID-19 during the first half of the pandemic. The study analyzed hospitalizations of 264 children and youth with SARS-CoV-2 infection and found that only half had severe disease, with underlying health conditions being a significant factor.
Ancient human societies adapted to tropical ecosystem dynamics, revealing their adaptability and resourcefulness. By studying these past interactions with the environment, scientists can better understand how to conserve tropical environments.
A 63-bone fossil discovery of Archaehierax sylvestris, a 25-million-year-old eagle-like raptor, has been made in South Australia. The species is one of the oldest eagle fossils known from this period and provides insight into raptor evolution in Australia.
Researchers found that limiting global warming to 2 degrees Celsius can postpone severe tropical cyclone impacts to the late second half of the century when there are fewer people at risk. Delaying warming can reduce exposed populations in countries like Japan, China, and the Korean peninsula.
A new project at Lehigh University aims to improve waste-to-energy conversion processes using AI and spectroscopy. The team will develop a rapid detection and analysis system for municipal solid waste streams, enabling real-time characterization and process control.
Researchers found that liver fat is higher in people with type 2 diabetes, even at seemingly healthy levels, and that weight loss induced remission reduces intra-organ fat. A significant proportion of participants achieved remission of their T2D after a weight management programme.
The SPIRIT-Path extension provides evidence-based guidance to standardize pathology content in clinical trial protocols, ensuring methodological rigor and adequate skills and resources. Pathology is integral to trial planning and delivery, and the new guidelines formalize pathology input into clinical trials.
A Phase 2 clinical trial found that levetiracetam improved cognitive function in Alzheimer's patients with epileptic activity, particularly those under 65 when symptoms began. The study demonstrated a clear benefit from the medication for this subtype of Alzheimer's disease.
Mayo Clinic researchers propose a comprehensive approach to breast cancer prevention, including risk assessment, lifestyle modification, and preventive medications. The approach aims to reduce hormone-sensitive breast cancers with good prognosis and unfavorable triple-negative tumors.
A University of Illinois study found that parental income has a lasting impact on children's health, with lower socioeconomic status linked to increased risk of obesity and related conditions. Permanent income is associated with parents' general socioeconomic conditions, while transitory peaks during adolescence can promote better health.
A new study from Cornell University's ILR School found that people overestimate how quickly senders expect responses to non-urgent work emails, leading to increased stress. By clearly defining response expectations, senders can alleviate this 'email urgency bias' and create a more manageable inbox.
A study found substantial individual- and community-level disparities persisting in lead exposure among US children, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
A recent US study found that major weight loss can reverse most cardiovascular risks associated with obesity. The study analyzed data from over 20,000 adults and found that the risk of high blood pressure and dyslipidemia was similar in those who lost weight and those who never had obesity.
Researchers at POSTECH developed a lithium-sulfur battery with high energy density, fast charging, and mechanical flexibility. The team synthesized sulfur-rich hierarchically ordered copolymers in under 30 minutes without surfactants or steric stabilizers.
Researchers explore human-forest interactions across space and time to understand the origins of the Anthropocene in tropical forests. The study reveals that traditional Indigenous land management has long-term significance in tropical regions, highlighting the need for fairer and more sustainable futures.
Scientists have developed a coacervate droplet that can replicate and evolve, providing a potential link between chemistry and biology. The research, published in Nature Communications, may help explain the emergence of the first living organisms on Earth.
Research in mice reveals that drug withdrawal alters brain activity patterns, causing increased functional connectivity and decreased modularity. This universal effect may be a common trait among different types of addictive drugs.
Mechanical thinning alone can moderate forest fire behavior, even in the absence of prescribed fires, according to OSU research. The study found that fuels built up after thinning declined dramatically, reducing the risk of severe wildfires.
Researchers found significant variations in guideline-recommended chronic kidney disease care delivery based on race and ethnicity. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to address these disparities and improve health outcomes for diverse patient populations.