Legionella pneumophila secretes small regulatory RNA molecules that mimic eukaryotic microRNAs, downregulating RIG-I protein to diminish host immune response and promote replication. This mechanism enables the bacterium's survival and development during infection.
A new study from the University of Copenhagen has made significant breakthroughs in treating Parkinson's disease by targeting specific neurons in the brainstem. By stimulating excitatory neurons in the caudal area of the pedunculopontine nucleus, researchers were able to restore normal walking function in mice with Parkinson's symptoms.
Developed by University of Seville researchers, the new methodology has a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 87.5%. It can detect SARS-CoV-2 in saliva and synthetic viruses with minimal equipment and training.
A RAND Corporation study found that 64% of unemployed men in their 30s have been arrested and 46% convicted of a crime. Employment services should focus on aiding those with criminal history records to overcome stigma and secure employment.
Severe COVID-19 compromises gut health by disrupting Peyer's Patches, a key component of the immune system that maintains healthy intestinal microbial populations. This disruption can lead to reduced microbial diversity, or dysbiosis.
A new analysis of focus groups reveals that historical trauma shapes many Black and Indigenous Americans' views about using public lands for leisure. Participants noted historical injustices and feeling unwelcome in nature-based spaces, yet continued to engage with nature despite these feelings.
A new Pb-based B-site-ordered double perovskite, PNMO, exhibits a polar crystal structure with large distortion due to lone pair electrons modulation. The material displays unprecedented low antiferromagnetic temperature and unusual two-step transitions.
The Venus flytrap has a sensitive system for stimulus transmission, with electrical impulses triggered by touch and transmitted quickly to catch prey. Anaesthetizing the plant with ether reveals that it does not react to touch during this time, mirroring human anaesthesia.
A new study reveals that construction workers are at high risk of tracking multiple toxic metals into their homes, including arsenic, chromium, and lead. The study found a range of factors, such as lack of work lockers and poor hygiene practices, can impact metal concentrations in home dust.
A new discovery by VUB professor Ann Massie's research group reveals a strategy that prolongs life expectancy and preserves hippocampal function in the aging brain. The absence of system xc- has positive effects on mouse longevity and cognitive function, challenging current understanding of the aging process.
A recent study discovered that hummingbird-pollinated plant species exhibit significantly higher seed set and germination rates than their bee-pollinated counterparts. This finding suggests that hummingbirds can pollinate plants more effectively due to their larger activity range and frequent movement between different plant individuals.
NAFLD and diabetes are linked through subclinical inflammation, insulin resistance, and dysregulated liver-derived proteins. Integrating knowledge from childhood to older age can help personalize prevention and treatment.
New study reveals that T-cell responses against the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein can predict protection against infection. In healthy individuals, T cells with a specific cytokine profile offered immunity against COVID-19. In contrast, cancer patients showed lower T-cell responses and increased susceptibility to infection.
A phase 3 trial demonstrates that adding darolutamide to standard therapy prolongs the survival of men with metastatic, hormone-sensitive prostate cancer. The treatment also delays disease progression and reduces need for additional therapies.
Researchers identified two new species of ancient bird fossils found in northwestern China. One species, Brevidentavis zhangi, had small peg-like teeth and a movable bony appendage at the tip of its lower jaw that may have helped it root for food.
Cambridge University researchers are tackling major environmental challenges in the UK's 'vegetable garden', the Fens, through a £10 million project. The team is working with farmers, landowners, and conservation groups to develop whole system solutions for climate change, extinction, and pollution threats.
Researchers sequenced genes expressed in individual single cells from human GI tracts, revealing new cell-type characteristics and gaining insights into important cell functions. The study opens the door to exploring gut health in a more precise manner at greater resolution than ever before.
Research by Shan Jiang found that introducing nature views into hospital corridors can significantly ease confusion and anger in navigating large medical complexes. The study revealed that participants used shorter time and walked less distance to complete wayfinding tasks when exposed to green spaces.
Researchers from the Max Planck Institute have obtained the first high-resolution 3D image of the muscle protein nebulin using electron cryo-tomography. The structure reveals that each nebulin repeat binds with an actin subunit, acting as a ruler to dictate filament length and interacting with neighboring actin subunits to stabilize it.
Researchers at UMass Amherst identified a protective RNA mechanism that resists viral degradation, informing the development of anti-viral drugs. The study uses genome-wide sequencing and molecular biology to understand how viruses evade human immune systems.
A recent study has shed light on the protein structure that helps bacteria pump toxic molecules out of their cells, contributing to drug resistance. The researchers found that as a pH change occurs, the protein's channel opens and closes in a specific way, allowing the transport of toxic compounds.
A supervised exercise program can reduce anxiety and fear of cancer progression in men undergoing active surveillance for prostate cancer. The study found significant improvements in mental and physical health benefits, including a reduction in prostate cancer-related anxiety and fear of progression.
Scientists have devised a method to pinpoint active ingredients from traditional Chinese medicine formulations, revealing 4 analytes with significant anti-inflammatory activity. This breakthrough could improve quality control standards and lead to better herbal remedies.
Researchers found that myelination, even patchy on interneurons, is required for full inhibitory potential. Myelin loss can cause abnormal brain activity and lead to cognitive impairments.
A study of Massachusetts' data found discrepancies in the FBI's National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) due to design flaws, delays in arrests, and human factors. In 84% of cases, NIBRS data matched that of law enforcement agencies, but errors occurred in 16% of cases.
A review of carbon capture and utilization (CCU) technologies found that many methods are incompatible with the Paris Agreement's emission reduction targets. The study suggests focusing on non-fossil carbon dioxide storage technologies to achieve long-term emissions goals.
Researchers developed a new model to predict storm damage, allowing for effective resource allocation and reduction in societal consequences. The framework can be applied to various infrastructure systems and weather events, promoting better preparedness and response.
Researchers found a significant increase in the quantity of contraceptive supply dispensed after a 2016 Oregon policy change requiring insurers to cover a 12-month supply. This study suggests that such policies can positively impact access to contraception, potentially reducing unintended pregnancies and healthcare costs.
A significant minority of Americans who morally oppose abortion would provide emotional support and logistical assistance to a friend or family member seeking an abortion, but may not financially contribute. The study's findings have implications for the Texas law that allows individuals to sue those who aided or abetted the procedure.
Researchers found that antibiotics prescribed to newborns decrease healthy Bifidobacterium species and promote antimicrobial resistance. The study suggests that clinicians should use antibiotics with minimal harm to the baby's microbiome.
Codiak BioSciences' exoASO-STAT6 demonstrates potent anti-tumor efficacy by reprogramming tumor-associated macrophages to an M1 phenotype, showing promise as a monotherapy candidate for hepatocellular carcinomas and other cancers. The company plans to initiate Phase 1 clinical trials in the first half of 2022.
A 30-year study reveals that part-time work has contributed to the persistence of the gender wage gap in Western Germany. Women's increasing selection into lower-paid part-time jobs has offset the closing of the gap, widening hourly wage disparities between men and women.
A new study found significant variation in preterm birth rates among Black parents by region, country of origin, and nativity. Despite adjusting for socioeconomic, health, and behavior factors, the researchers suggest that racism and discrimination may be key drivers of these inequities.
Restored tropical forests can survive climate change and continue accumulating carbon until the end of the century. Prioritizing forest restoration based on factors like land cost and carbon potential is crucial for maximizing impact.
Scientists have discovered Atlantic cod, armhook squid, and lanternfish in the deep waters of the Central Arctic Ocean, rewriting the understanding of this ecosystem. The findings suggest that these species can survive in Arctic temperatures and contribute to the food web.
Researchers at UCSC developed a simple method to make aluminum nanoparticles that split water and generate hydrogen gas rapidly. The gallium-aluminum composite creates aluminum nanoparticles that react with water at room temperature, yielding large amounts of hydrogen.
A study by KIT and international partners found that protecting 30-50% of the terrestrial land surface could lead to increased agricultural production, higher food prices, and reduced food consumption, resulting in a higher risk of diet-related diseases. Poorer countries would be disproportionately affected.
Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a new AI processor called Hiddenite, which achieves state-of-the-art accuracy in sparse neural networks with lower computational burdens. The chip drastically reduces external memory access for enhanced computational efficiency.
A recent study led by NYU Abu Dhabi researchers found that 23.8% of indigenous Nepali individuals were hypertensive, with nearly 14% having no association with identified lifestyle factors. The findings highlight the need for tailored medical research to address the unique health challenges of indigenous populations in Nepal.
Researchers analyzed 60 billion tweets to understand vaccine hesitancy on social media. They found that anti-vaxxer profiles often share links to YouTube videos and commercial sites selling alternative health products, highlighting the spread of misinformation in echo chambers.
Researchers have found a new method to induce the piezoelectric effect in materials that are otherwise not piezoelectric. This breakthrough could lead to the development of biocompatible materials with properties similar to common lead-containing materials, and has the potential to expand the design of new electromechanical devices.
Researchers from Hefei Institutes of Physical Science identified the dominant mechanism for core heavy impurities accumulation and control. Large toroidal rotation and density peaking contribute to heavy impurity accumulation.
The nTIDE January 2022 COVID Update reports a rise in furloughs and job seekers among people with and without disabilities. This trend reflects the impact of the omicron variant on the labor market.
Researchers from NIST have developed a mathematical model that predicts the strength and timing of changes in velocity required for crane operators to apply when transporting heavy loads. This equation can be applied to various situations, including moving a load with initial rest and large distances.
A 5-day course of oral ivermectin failed to reduce the risk of severe disease in high-risk patients with COVID-19. The study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, suggests ivermectin may not be an effective treatment for COVID-19.
A study of 54,000 academic physicians reveals significant gender-based disparities in earning potential, with women starting at lower salaries in nearly every subspecialty. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address these disparities and promote equal opportunities for women in academia.
An international team of scientists found that modern rates of sea-level rise emerged globally in 1863, corresponding to the start of the Industrial Revolution. This study provides critical insights for local and regional planning, helping prepare for future sea-level rise.
A study examined the association between county-level prescription rates of hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin and voting patterns in the 2020 US presidential election. The analysis found a statistically significant correlation between higher prescription rates and Republican vote shares.
A technology ethicist argues that the field has become too vague and toothless, failing to address broader socio-economic systems that govern tech development. He advocates for a sociotechnical lens, focusing on technology's social impacts and context.
A new UCLA study has found that hippocampal neurons in rats accurately map the position of a moving object even when stationary, challenging prevailing hypotheses about brain function. The findings open up new research avenues into memory disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.
This study demonstrates that soil bacterial communities on Zijin Mountain are significantly distinct along a small elevation gradient, with soil pH as the most important driver. The researchers found distinct distribution patterns between soil microbes and plants, suggesting that body size affects elevational diversity patterns.
A large-scale online experiment involving over a million participants revealed that mental speed hardly changes over a lifespan. The study, led by Dr Mischa von Krause and Dr Stefan Radev, found that response times rose with increasing age due to caution and mistake avoidance, rather than a decline in mental speed.
A recent study published in Frontiers in Toxicology found that heated tobacco and vape next generation products display reduced cardiotoxicity potential relative to combustible cigarette smoke. Heated tobacco aerosol showed some cardiotoxic potential, while vape aerosol exhibited no cardiotoxic effects even at high concentrations.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have developed a novel method for identifying genetic variants that are likely to play important roles in congenital heart disease. The study leverages interactions between proteins to pinpoint candidate genes, including GLYR1, which is involved in turning other genes on and off.
New research reveals a record high number of election litigation cases in 2020, driven by the COVID-19 pandemic and unsuccessful post-election lawsuits. The trend is expected to continue as the 2022 midterms approach, with leading experts warning that minimizing meritorious litigation may deprive some litigants of justice.
Researchers have discovered that RNA polymerases move along highly expressed genes, forming stiff structures called transcription loops. These loops can be up to 10 micrometers in size and traverse most of the nucleus.
Researchers found that certain transfer RNAs are dysregulated in human cancer, leading to a worse clinical course. Re-silencing these molecules in preclinical studies halted tumor growth, suggesting they could be attractive targets for next-generation drugs.
Scientists at Michigan Medicine have developed a new way to grow tiny models of organs, called organoids, using a simple suspension culture. This breakthrough improves the understanding of human development and could lead to new insights into disease.
Scientists have identified a link between temperature and insect reproduction, finding that cold temperatures slow down reproduction in fruit flies and other insects. This discovery could lead to new control strategies for mosquitoes and agricultural pests, potentially reducing the spread of diseases like malaria.
A new bacterial strain, Noda2021, belonging to Candidatus phylum Dependentiae has been isolated and sequenced, revealing its genetic material and potential ecological significance. This discovery sheds light on the diversity of microorganisms in Japan's microbiological hotspots.