Researchers develop two-stage approach converting mixed plastic waste into polyhydroxyalkanoates, a family of bioplastics suitable for medical materials. The hybrid process combines metal ion-promoted oxidation and bioconversion via genetically modified soil bacterium, enabling efficient recycling of commonly used plastics.
Invasive breast cancer rates declined in childhood cancer survivors under age 40, largely due to reduced chest radiation therapy. Concurrent changes in other therapies may have tempered this trend, according to a study of 11,550 female survivors diagnosed between 1970 and 1999
Conscious perception of sound generates specific neuronal assemblies in the brain, differing from spontaneous brain activity. Under anesthesia, similar assemblies are present but lack sound-specificity, highlighting the importance of cortical creativity in sensory processing.
Researchers discovered that plasmids can linger in the nose of lab workers for weeks, interfering with clinical diagnostic tests. The study highlights the importance of considering occupational exposure in diagnosis and treatment.
Studies on prion diseases in mice reveal coordinated gene expression changes before symptoms appear, shedding light on selective vulnerability and potential treatment targets. Researchers predict disease progression using new methods, suggesting therapies may be more effective when applied early.
A randomized controlled study found that short training units improved children's self-regulation, reading ability, and focus, with positive long-term effects on their educational success. The training program, based on the MCII Strategy, can be easily integrated into primary school teaching schedules.
Researchers from HKU and Harvard University have developed a new triangular lattice model and sweeping cluster algorithm to simulate Rydberg arrays. Their simulations reveal highly entangled Z2 quantum spin liquids with large parameter regimes, providing valuable insights for future experiments.
A polypill combining blood pressure lowering agents, statins, and aspirin could avoid millions of premature deaths and cardiovascular disease cases annually. Its widespread availability would be affordable for most people globally, reducing CVD risk substantially.
Researchers created theoretical models to explain geographical clustering of vaccine hesitancy, attributing it to both social selection and social influence. The models found that these two processes independently generate clusters of high hesitancy, with social selection playing a key role when societies trust propaganda.
Research suggests people with HIV and CD4 counts lower than 350 cells per microliter are at increased risk of severe breakthrough COVID-19 infections. The study's findings support the CDC's recommendations for additional vaccine dosing and risk-reduction measures for these individuals.
A 14% decrease in live births was observed in Europe nine months after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and first lockdowns. The decline may be linked to lockdowns rather than COVID-19 infection, with countries experiencing longer lockdowns having lower birth rates.
A new study from the University of Leeds reveals that standard statistical approaches can produce inconsistent results in nutritional research. The researchers identified a problem with controlling for total energy intake and overall diet, which can lead to dramatic changes in interpretation of results.
Research suggests that social norms can be harnessed to bring about collective climate action and policy change, but requires deep contextual knowledge to be used effectively. Social norm interventions aim to increase adoption of sustainable behaviors, while social-tipping interventions disrupt unsustainable norms.
Recent advancements in pig-to-human transplants have demonstrated potential as a solution to the dire transplant organ shortage, with over 100,000 people awaiting transplants. Further research is needed to address challenges such as navigating ethical concerns and reducing organ rejection, but trials should continue in humans.
Researchers found that certain types of dietary fiber cause inflammation in IBD patients, worsening symptoms. A stool test is being developed to predict individual responses to dietary fibers, enabling tailored recommendations.
Researchers at UT Austin developed a semicrystalline polymer that combines strength and flexibility, overcoming challenges of mixed materials in robotics and electronics. The new material is 10 times as tough as natural rubber and can be controlled with light.
A new study shows that the Galépagos Islands' cool waters are due to a strengthening cold ocean current. The current, which has been getting stronger since the early 1990s, provides a buffer against warming Pacific Ocean waters.
A study by physicists Fariba Karimi and her team has confirmed that women are underrepresented in physics, but found that the gender gap is largely due to a first-mover advantage enjoyed by men. The research suggests that women face higher entry barriers and structural inequalities, leading to differences in citation recognition.
The WHO European Region sees high mortality rates due to antimicrobial resistance, with countries implementing national actions plans showing lower AMR burden. Developing new treatments and improving hygiene are crucial strategies to combat this growing health threat.
A study by Finnish researchers found that exposure to the herbicide glyphosate impairs bumblebees' fine color vision, affecting their ability to learn and remember connections between colors and tastes. This weakened color vision can severely impact bumblebees' foraging and nesting success.
Prof. George P. Chrousos has made significant advancements in endocrine research, especially in stress biology and the HPA axis. His work has opened new horizons in understanding complex human disorders such as anxiety, depression, and metabolic syndrome.
A new report finds that men and women in the UK have higher probabilities of dying than predicted, with a marked difference in gender. The slowdown since 2010 has raised questions about the viability of pensions schemes and inequalities within the UK.
A randomized clinical trial found that targeted health-focused advertisements reduced vaping initiation among US adolescents. The study also showed a decrease in cigarette smoking behaviors among participants.
Researchers at ETH Zurich develop a new method to track plastic biodegradation in soil, using stable carbon isotopes to demonstrate complete mass balances. The study finds that about two-thirds of the added polymer carbon is converted into CO2, while one-third remains in the soil, with some being incorporated into microbial biomass.
Researchers found that human kidneys with more blood filters (glomeruli) contained more podocytes per filter. This means that people with more glomeruli not only have more units of podocytes overall, but these cells are more concentrated in each filter. Early discoveries suggest expectant mothers can reduce their babies' future kidney ...
A multi-institutional team has developed an efficient method for measuring high-dimensional qudits, which are more resistant to noise and can carry more information than qubits. The technique uses phase modulators and pulse shapers to characterize qudit entanglement with unprecedented precision.
Researchers found that the COVID-19 vaccine can reduce the risk of SARS-CoV-2 placentitis, a condition that causes stillbirth and neonatal death. The vaccine not only protects pregnant women but may also be lifesaving for their unborn children.
Researchers capture electron movement in attoseconds, enabling more precise observation of electrons in solids and semiconductors. This breakthrough could lead to the development of novel quantum materials with tailored properties and help create scalable quantum information technology.
A breakthrough computer model from Chalmers University of Technology reveals the properties of an atomic nucleus, providing insights into the strong force that governs neutron star behavior. The model predicts a surprisingly thin neutron skin, which could lead to increased understanding of heavy element creation in neutron stars.
A research team at Kumamoto University has identified the separation of Japanese cockroaches in ancient pottery, dating back over 5,000 years. The study found that the smokybrown cockroach was native to western Japan and the Yamato cockroach was native to eastern Japan.
A new study from Washington University in St. Louis found that individuals who experienced personal harm during the COVID-19 pandemic were more likely to support and advocate for equality, particularly those who contracted COVID-19 or lost their jobs. This shift in attitudes was attributed to a greater understanding of structural facto...
Discontinuing or reducing telephone access may disrupt treatment for patients with access disparities, particularly Black patients and those experiencing homelessness. Telehealth was associated with increased retention rates for both new and continuing patients.
Researchers propose a new explanation for how dinosaur mummies might form, suggesting desiccation and deflation as a common pathway. This process is also observed in modern animal carcasses, revealing that rare fossils may not be as unusual as previously thought.
A study found that counties with more land enrolled in the USDA's Conservation Reserve Program have lower average concentrations of particulate air pollution. This is due to reduced nitrogen compounds and dust emissions from decreased agricultural activity and increased vegetative cover.
A new method of conventional IVF has been successfully developed by Katrin Hinrichs and colleagues, resulting in three healthy foals born to recipient mares. The technique offers a simplified alternative to existing methods like ICSI, which require expensive equipment and training.
Researchers at the University of Oxford discovered that goldfish can accurately estimate distances by processing visual cues. The study found that goldfish use 'optic flow' to estimate distance, unlike terrestrial animals which rely on changes in angle between their eye and surrounding objects.
Researchers have created III-nitride/MoSx core-shell nanostructures with negative and positive photoresponsivity under different wavelengths, demonstrating a new universal photodetector architecture. This breakthrough enables spectrally sensitive photoelectrochemical photodetectors for various applications.
A new study found that midlife and older women with same-sex attractions are more likely to be sexually active and report better sexual functioning and less pain during sex. Women in this group also experience fewer vaginal symptoms compared to their heterosexual peers.
Scientists overcome barriers in conventional LED technology by creating III-nitride submicron-scale green µLEDs with a bottom-up approach. The devices feature arrays of nanowires with a core-shell multiple-quantum-well structure, which alleviate color instability and maintain peak wavelength stability despite changes in current injection.
A new study found that traumatic experiences are associated with lower concentrations of estrogens estrone and estradiol in postmenopausal women. The relationship between trauma and hormones depends on sleep duration, with women experiencing low levels of estrogens who get less than 6 hours of sleep per night
A new approach combining online therapeutic games with non-invasive brain stimulation techniques has shown significant benefits in improving working memory capacity in older adults. The technology, COGNISANT, was found to be particularly effective in those with lower initial working memory capacity.
The initiative vaccinated a significantly higher rate of young people, non-white populations, and Hispanic people than the average for the state and target communities. The program used a 'double equity' model to engage with local transportation companies and administered over 20,000 COVID-19 vaccination doses.
Poliovirus researchers at Umeå University have gained a new understanding of how the virus behaves in infected cells, revealing key protein roles and cellular processes involved. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new antiviral treatments and vaccines targeting the autophagy system.
Major chemical companies are backing pyrolysis plants to expand plastics recycling, but environmentalists remain skeptical. The process converts plastic waste into hydrocarbon feedstocks that can be turned into plastics again, making up for the shortcomings of traditional recycling which captures only about 9% of plastics in the US.
A two-year research project aims to overcome technical difficulties in large-scale algae cultivation, a promising method for climate change mitigation. The ROBA project focuses on developing economically feasible algal cultivation processes using advanced measurement technologies and bioprocess engineering.
Researchers discovered that influencers with an intermediate follower count create the most engagement, as larger and smaller influencer tiers fail to deliver comparable results. The study also found that content customization and brand familiarity can impact this relationship.
Researchers highlight the importance of sustained blood pressure control in reducing fatal cardiovascular events. The study found that intensive blood pressure management was beneficial during the SPRINT trial but lost its effects after two years without continued treatment.
A new study published in Neurology found that following a Mediterranean diet did not decrease the risk of dementia. The study, which followed 28,000 participants over 20 years, found no link between adhering to conventional dietary recommendations or the Mediterranean diet and reduced risk of dementia.
Researchers found reduced lung function and scarring in mice exposed to e-cigarette vapor with or without nicotine. Female mice also showed increased body weight in adulthood. The study suggests vaping during pregnancy can have long-term health effects on offspring.
A new research method allows for a detailed examination of brain processes involved in neurological disorders by integrating human cortical organoids into developing rat brains. The study finds that transplanted organoids integrate into specific brain pathways, displaying functional connectivity.
A new study found that hormone therapy may protect against adhesive capsulitis, a painful orthopedic disorder affecting perimenopausal women. The research suggests estrogen plays a role in musculoskeletal function and reducing inflammation, supporting the hypothesis that hormone therapy is protective against the disorder.
A new study by University of Waterloo professors Seda Oz and Steve Fortin found that daily box office earnings can accurately predict stock market returns for up to five days, creating upward pressure on stock prices.
A comprehensive classification of world's ecosystems across land, rivers, and wetlands enables effective biodiversity conservation and informed policy decisions. The typology helps policymakers and industry plan initiatives in full context, informing decisions on ecosystem protection and restoration efforts.
Two promising neurokinin B antagonists, fezolinetant and elinzanetant, are being developed for the treatment of vasomotor symptoms, including hot flashes. Larger studies are necessary to confirm their benefits and risks. Hormone therapy remains the most effective treatment option for menopausal women.
A new potential antitumor drug, TRIP, causes rapid protein aggregation, hyperactivating the unfolded protein response and leading to programmed cell death in ovarian cancer cells. The Fe-S cluster biogenesis factor NUBP2 is identified as the probable starting point for the cellular processes triggered by TRIP.
A study of 1.6 million Medicare patients found significant disparities in surgical consultation rates based on race, with Black patients receiving fewer consultations for emergency general surgery conditions than their white counterparts.
A new mechanism has been discovered for the passive transport of biomolecules through the nuclear pore complex, with implications for human diseases. The research team used supercomputing simulations on Frontera and Stampede2 systems to study the kinetics of the nuclear pore transport.
A national study found that patients with cardiovascular disease had a higher mortality rate than those without, but this association was largely due to shared risk factors. Myocardial injury was common among critically ill COVID-19 patients and associated with poor outcomes.
Scientists at The Wistar Institute have discovered a correlation between mitochondrial dysfunction and aggressive pancreatic cancer. An 11-gene signature indicative of mitochondrial reprogramming in tumors has been identified, which correlates with poor patient outcomes and treatment resistance.
A nationwide Indian study linked high PM2.5 concentrations to increased stroke risk but no excess mortality for heart disease or respiratory illness. The findings suggest that earlier models may have overstated the impact of air pollution in India.