A team of researchers, backed by a £30m grant from the British Heart Foundation, aims to develop the first cures for inherited heart muscle diseases using ultra-precise gene therapy technologies. They plan to deploy CRISPR technology to correct or silence faulty genes, potentially delivering an injectable cure within years.
Researchers from Aarhus and Berlin have developed an algorithm that can predict how complex molecules will bind to the surface of catalysts. This is achieved through a machine-learning approach inspired by 3D Tetris, allowing computers to quickly identify promising catalysts.
Scientists at the University of California San Diego have taken the first-ever cryo-EM images of nitrogenase during catalytic action, providing new insights into the enzyme's mechanism and its potential for cost-effective and environmentally friendly ammonia production. The atomic-level-resolution images may pave the way for understand...
A new Yale School of Public Health study emphasizes the importance of individual and population-level vaccination and boosting in controlling COVID-19 infections. The research shows that recent vaccinations significantly decrease an individual's risk of contracting COVID-19, but may not affect transmission length.
A small marine isopod helps fertilize red seaweed by carrying pollen on its body, increasing plant growth and reproductive success. The discovery suggests animal-mediated fertilization may have evolved earlier than thought, potentially in both terrestrial and marine environments.
Researchers discover gene AVIL responsible for deadly brain tumor also causes two forms of childhood cancer, rhabdomyosarcoma. Blocking AVIL activity prevents formation of the disease in lab samples and mouse models.
A new study challenges the notion that restoring coastal vegetation like mangroves and seagrass can significantly remove CO2 from the atmosphere. The review highlights seven reasons why blue carbon accounting is uncertain, including high variability in carbon burial rates and vulnerability to climate change.
Researchers at University of Cincinnati and Case Western Reserve University found a novel drug enables nervous system repair and functional recovery in animal models of severe ischemic stroke. The study demonstrated significant improvement in motor function, sensory function, spatial learning, and memory. NVG-291-R repairs damage throu...
New evidence from Antarctica shows toxic fluorinated forever chemicals have increased markedly in recent decades, with scientists believing CFC-replacements are a likely source. The most abundant chemical discovered was perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA), which has been linked to human exposure and immune system impairment.
Researchers found bacteria use quorum sensing to suppress freeloaders, harming themselves in the process. The extreme step helps enforce fairness within their communities.
Researchers found that a species of red seaweed uses an isopod crustacean to transfer its male gametes for fertilization, presenting a new class of animal-mediated male gamete movement. This discovery expands the concept of 'pollination' beyond seed plants.
A multi-national study found that over half of clinical trials leading to FDA-approved anticancer medicines are not available for independent scrutiny. The lack of transparency hinders the use of data for further research into the safety and efficacy of medicines.
A newly developed polarizer-embedded metalens microscope system achieves high-quality, wide-field imaging with a large depth-of-field, significantly expanding human eyesight to the microworld. The chip-scale device offers a thousand-fold reduction in volume and weight compared to traditional microscopes.
Researchers found that only about 40% of vaccinated participants who had a PCR confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection had a positive anti-N Ab subsequently. The study suggests that serological testing may be undercounting prior infections, emphasizing the importance of considering vaccination status in public health studies.
Researchers at VCU Massey Cancer Center have discovered a new target for treating high-risk neuroblastoma, a deadly pediatric cancer. A novel compound called SHP099 has shown promising results in shrinking tumors and killing cancer cells.
A US study found that health facilities in metropolitan areas with a high proportion of Black citizens were less likely to administer COVID-19 vaccines, indicating potential vaccine access barriers. The study suggests disparities in vaccine distribution across the country.
Research finds that people enjoy thinking more than expected, with benefits including problem-solving and creativity. Underestimating the enjoyment of solo thinking may lead to missed opportunities for personal growth.
Researchers at TUM have developed a cell-free production method for bacteriophages, which can be used to target and combat specific types of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The new technology has the potential to produce personalized therapeutic phages for clinical trials, addressing multi-resistant germ infections.
Researchers have developed an algorithm to identify the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi in photographs of blood samples taken with a mobile phone camera. The low-cost method can be reproduced and adapted for other purposes that depend on images, such as analyzing feces, skin, or colposcopies.
A new study found that female and financially stretched students are most likely to be affected by Covid-19 stress. The research identified chronic illness, monetary concerns, and higher psychological distress as risk factors for poorer mental health outcomes.
A team of scientists, led by Dr. Tor Savidge, has proposed a novel mechanism for enzymatic catalytic power, integrating transition state stabilization and ground state destabilization. This new understanding has significant implications for drug design applications and microbial enzymatic catalysis.
A team of scientists has discovered that idoteas, tiny marine creatures, play a crucial role in the reproductive cycle of red algae by pollinating them. This unique interaction not only aids the alga's reproduction but also provides the idotea with food and shelter.
A research team from the Complexity Science Hub Vienna has developed a stress test to identify weaknesses and strengths in healthcare systems. They used data from Austria to show how many resident physicians can drop out before patients don't find a new doctor within reasonable distance, highlighting regional differences in resilience.
A new study from Northwestern University finds that exposure to food stamp work requirements significantly increases mental health care use for depression and anxiety. The policy's negative effects are more pronounced among women, who experience a 26% increase in depression visits and a 12% increase in anxiety visits.
Researchers have created a nanobody that can penetrate tough brain cell coatings and disrupt alpha-synuclein clumps, which contribute to neurodegenerative diseases. The nanobody, PFFNB2, shows promise in preventing disease progression in live mouse brains.
A new study found that consuming lightly salted peanuts twice a day before meals led to significant weight loss and improved blood pressure and fasting glucose levels. The peanut-enriched group experienced an extra 15 grams of protein, which may contribute to the findings.
The article discusses new guidelines for big data research, including the potential for group harm. It also explores biobank research from an African American community's perspective and the implementation of electronic consent procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A study found that pandemic restrictions negatively affected mental wellbeing, with workplace closures being the only positive effect. Women and young people were disproportionately impacted, highlighting disparities in mental health outcomes between social groups.
The ISM Annual Meeting highlights new topics in oral, vaginal, skin, and gut microbiota, as well as their metabolites and potential implications in diseases like cancer, depression, and stroke. The meeting aims to explore the mechanism behind microbiota efficacy and its potential application in precision medicine.
Researchers found that the brain's cortex uses principles of calculus to implement a 'stop' signal, allowing for quick and precise decision-making in goal-directed behaviors. The study reveals how the brain integrates learned rules with sensory information to guide actions.
A new advanced MRI technique has enabled clinicians to measure the effectiveness of chemotherapy in patients with stiff heart syndrome, improving their prognosis. By accurately measuring amyloid protein deposits in the heart, doctors can better guide treatment strategies and improve patient outcomes.
A study found China needs to rapidly scale up electrification, low-carbon electricity, and non-fossil energy sources to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050-2080. The research suggests phasing out conventional coal power plants by 2060 under 2°C goals or 2050 under 1.5°C goals.
Researchers from Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics fabricate high-performance perovskite submodules with stability and outstanding photovoltaic performance. They achieve this using a surface redox engineering strategy, eliminating the local de-wetting problem and enhancing electronic properties.
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center developed a novel algorithm that identified nearly 20,000 adverse drug events (ADEs) signals across seven pediatric development stages. The study utilizes predictive modeling on real-world data to overcome limited data within individual stages.
A novel permeable reactive barrier configuration, PC-PRB, is proposed to enhance hydraulic performance. The PC-PRB system converges plumes towards the PRB due to passive hydraulic decompression-convergent flow effect, increasing capture width and residence time.
Individualized, comprehensive treatment approaches and risk stratification of patients are crucial for effective treatment of MAFLD. Lifestyle modifications and pharmaceutical therapeutics combining to treat the condition.
A team of researchers at Case Western Reserve University has discovered a cell signaling pathway responsible for the development of esophageal adenocarcinomas. The Ephrin B2 (EphB2) Tyrosine kinase pathway is activated during cancer growth and regulates the behavior of normal esophageal cells, making it an attractive therapeutic target.
Researchers found that H3K27me3 modifies regions have lower DNA methylation due to inhibited UHRF1-mediated ubiquitination of H3. This mechanism regulates dynamic transcriptional regulation by DNA methylation in these regions.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Center for Healthy Minds found that mindfulness training alters specific pathways in the brain related to pain regulation. Participants who completed an eight-week Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction course showed a reduction in pain-related brain activity, suggesting a potential new ...
The New Mexico site provides conclusive evidence for early human settlement in North America, dating back to 36,250-38,900 years ago. The site's fossil record includes blunt-force fractures, bone flake knives, and signs of controlled fire, which were not typical of earlier archaeological sites.
Researchers found a rapid decline in sense of smell predicts cognitive impairment, including dementia and smaller brain areas, in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. The study suggests using smell tests as an early screening tool to identify high-risk patients.
A water-activated disposable paper battery has been developed by Gustav Nyström and colleagues, which can power a wide range of low-power, single-use devices. The battery's performance is maintained by adding water, releasing charged ions that generate an electrical current.
Researchers have identified a new protein called IFT80 that regulates osteoclasts, the cells responsible for breaking down bone. The study found that mice lacking IFT80 developed severe osteopenia, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for treating bone loss diseases.
A nationwide analysis found that 88.9% of the population lives within 5 miles of a community pharmacy, but only 48.1% live within 1 mile. The study highlights the importance of pharmacies in providing access to healthcare services, particularly for rural residents.
Scientists have developed a DNA nano-robot that can apply forces with unprecedented accuracy, enabling closer study of mechanical forces at microscopic levels. The robot is designed to target specific mechanoreceptors, allowing researchers to activate them and study key signaling pathways involved in biological processes.
A new study found that HIV-1 Tat expression accelerates age-related diseases in male mice by disrupting neuroendocrine function. Researchers discovered that Tat alters steroid hormone levels, leading to anxiety-like behavior, cognitive errors, and reduced grip strength.
A new study published in JAMA Oncology has found a significant association between daily insulin dose and increased cancer risk in patients with type 1 diabetes. The research, led by Yuanjie Mao, investigated the relationships between various risk factors and cancer incidence in this population.
A study found that a majority of online pharmacies selling imatinib, a chronic myeloid leukemia therapy, are uncertified and operate unsafely. Patients may face risks of nonadherence, treatment failures, and adverse events if they use these pharmacies.
Researchers at Scripps Research have discovered a new set of chemical reactions that generate amino acids and orotic acids from common early earth molecules. This discovery sheds light on the origins of life on Earth and has potential applications in manufacturing processes.
The NIH announced five cash prize winners and four honorable mentions in its Maternal Health Diagnostics Challenge. The winning technologies aim to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality, with a focus on detecting and differentiating common pregnancy-related conditions.
A new study using elephant seal data has found that the North Pacific Blob's subsurface warming persisted for over two years, with temperatures extending 1,000 meters below the surface. The extensive subsurface warming raises questions about its mechanisms and potential connections to surface warming.
After the debris flow, researchers studied how far debris from Goleta Beach dispersed along the coast. They found that most of the material appeared to be largely removed from the beach and showed signs of degradation in deeper waters.
A new study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that cytisine, a plant-based alkaloid, is a safe and effective smoking cessation therapy. The study showed a 32.1% quit rate for participants taking cytisine compared to 7.3% for those receiving a placebo.
Scientists used a nanodiamond-based quantum sensor to measure temperature changes in neurons. The study, published in Advanced Science Journal, found that the sensor's readings correlated with increased neuron firing activity.
Scientists found parasite eggs in coprolites of giant short-faced hyena Pachycrocuta, dating back 1.5-1.8 million years. This discovery suggests that toxocariasis was a widespread disease among extinct hyenas.
A Rutgers study found that only 47% of autistic children in four New Jersey counties received early intervention programs before 36 months. Income and race-based disparities hindered access to these services. The study highlights the need for universal autism screening and enhanced support for early intervention systems.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found no significant differences in treatment success between nonoperative and operative management for acute uncomplicated appendicitis. However, the nonoperative group experienced significantly longer hospital stays and higher recurrence rates.
Researchers at NTU Singapore and Cuprina have developed a new clinical-grade collagen made from discarded bullfrog skin, which is leapfrogging from the lab bench to clinics soon. This sustainable innovation aims to reduce waste and provide an affordable yet effective wound-care solution.
A team of researchers connected the dots for one important gut bacterium, revealing its molecular structure and function in the immune system. The study found that Akkermansia muciniphila's lipid activates toll-like receptors, triggering the release of certain cytokines while leaving others alone.
Researchers investigate astrocyte production in the brain, discovering distinct dynamics in different parts of the cortex. The study suggests that early exposure to specific genes regulates stem cell behavior, leading to variations in astrocyte generation.