A new targeted therapy inhibits specific immune cells associated with lupus nephritis, improving kidney inflammation in animal models. Elevated levels of ALCAM molecules suggest a potential new path toward personalized medicine.
The CHEOPS space telescope has detected the deformation of exoplanet WASP-103b, a rugby ball-shaped world with extreme tides. The planet's Love number indicates similarities with Jupiter's internal structure, suggesting it may be highly inflated due to heating from its star.
Researchers estimated severe SARS-CoV-2 outcomes in youths tested positive in emergency departments, highlighting key risk factors. The study found higher risks of severe illness among younger patients with underlying health conditions.
A new study found that Tasmanian devils have picky diets and only consume their favorite foods, unlike most other scavengers. The researchers tracked the eating habits of 71 devils using whisker samples and found that most devils choose to dine on specific foods.
Research suggests men are more likely to engage in deviant behavior such as lying or cheating when their gender status is threatened at work. In contrast, women's responses to gender threats do not affect their perceived ability to behave autonomously.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discovered a previously unknown protein called SCP4 that plays a crucial role in the survival of acute myeloid leukemia cells. The study found that SCP4 can pair with specific kinases to regulate cell activity, and targeting this pathway may lead to effective treatment options.
A new study uses stem cells to predict schizophrenia symptoms, opening the door to personalized medicine. The researchers found that neurons derived from patients' own stem cells predicted psychosis and cognitive deficits with high accuracy.
A new study by Emory University found that international trade bans on endangered species generally benefit mammals but harm reptiles. The researchers discovered large spikes in legal trade for reptilian species before bans were implemented, which may explain the differential impact of the bans.
Physicians in Colorado are more willing than expected to provide medical aid in dying, with 81% open to discussing the topic and 88% willing to make referrals. However, 46% were unwilling to serve as consultants, highlighting the need for better understanding of the challenges physicians face in this practice.
Researchers found that college graduates between 34 and 43 years old are more likely to return to their hometowns if they had a strong attachment to their public K-12 schools. The study also revealed that rural communities with lower population densities and fewer postsecondary degree holders were more attractive to returning graduates.
The upper ocean has reached record-breaking temperatures for the sixth consecutive year, with the latest data showing a significant increase in heat content. This warming trend is primarily driven by human-induced climate change, which affects ocean acidification and marine life.
Researchers from Korea Maritime & Ocean University found that using LPG as a marine fuel can reduce annual fuel consumption by 7.5-10.4%, fuel cost by 8.8-25.9%, and carbon dioxide emissions by 10-14%. The study also highlights the potential for promoting LPG as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional fuels.
The HKUMed research team successfully repurposed an approved drug, ifenprodil, in combination with the FDA-approved drug sorafenib to treat liver cancer. The study leveraged CRISPR-Cas9 screening platform to identify a common target known as NMDAR1 and its paired targets, which inhibits HCC cells' growth and self-renewal ability.
Researchers discovered RNA can bind two metabolites in a single pocket, regulating gene expression and potentially creating new antibacterial drugs. This finding provides more support for the 'RNA World' theory, which suggests RNA molecules enabled life to evolve 3.5 billion years ago.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed a portable brain imaging procedure using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to detect acute impairment from THC intoxication. The technique shows promise in distinguishing between impairment and mild intoxication, with accuracy confirmed by machine learning models.
A study reveals a powerful subset of vascular macrophages expressing CLEC4A2 fosters 'good' macrophage behavior, limiting plaque build-up. This discovery challenges the widely held belief that macrophages only play a harmful role in cardiovascular disease.
The International Cardiac Rehabilitation Registry (ICRR) is designed to assess the quality of cardiac rehab programs worldwide, improving patient outcomes. The registry enables programs in low- and middle-income countries to benchmark their services against international standards.
A potential vaccine stimulating skin antioxidant production may help prevent skin cancer. Researchers at Oregon State University have identified TR1, a protein critical to the skin's antioxidant network, as a key target for this approach.
Researchers developed a recursive composite adaptive control method to improve the accuracy and dynamic performance of robot manipulators in the Chinese Space Station. The new controller reduces computational loads and achieves faster parameter convergence, making it suitable for high-degree-of-freedom robots.
A new study published in Circulation Research found that smoking can increase the risk of a heart attack by activating a gene that affects blood clotting. The researchers discovered that smoking causes changes to DNA methylation at specific sites, leading to increased platelet activity and an increased risk of clotting events.
A comprehensive assessment of scientific integrity in US government agencies reveals sound policies but also issues that undermine public trust and scientist morale. The report identifies best practices to reinforce a culture of integrity and proposes additional principles to strengthen scientific integrity across government.
Dr. Mark S. Parker, MD, FACR, has been recognized as the 2022 ARRS Distinguished Educator for his outstanding contributions to radiological education. He will be formally recognized at the ARRS Annual Meeting in New Orleans, LA on May 1, 2022.
A new catalytic approach directly converts solid biomass into natural gas with a low carbon footprint, achieving nearly complete conversion of various agricultural and forestry materials. This process reduces fossil energy depletion and greenhouse gas emissions by up to 26% and 34%, respectively.
Research led by Penn State found that minority individuals are more accepting of a combination influenza-COVID-19 vaccine than COVID-19 alone. The study suggests bundling vaccines may increase future uptake among minorities due to convenience.
Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center have identified the molecular and cellular mechanisms that control the formation of tertiary lymphoid structures within tumors. These structures contain immune cells and can promote anti-tumor activity when Tfh cells are introduced, leading to improved outcomes in patients with certain types of cancer.
Researchers at Oregon State University identified two cannabinoid acids, CBGA and CBDA, that can block the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, preventing virus entry into human cells. These compounds have a good safety profile in humans and may be effective against variant strains.
Researchers at HKUMed developed a new vaccine regimen that induces robust mucosal immunity, preventing SARS-CoV-2 nasal infection in animal models. The heterologous combination of PD1-RBD-DNA and LAIV-HK68-RBD vaccines demonstrated superior protection against pandemic variants, including Alpha, Beta, and Delta.
A team of researchers at MIT has identified and modeled a major reason for poor performance in electrochemical carbon dioxide conversion systems, which is caused by a local depletion of CO2 gas near the electrodes. By pulsing the current off and on, they can replenish the gas levels, allowing the process to continue efficiently.
A UCLA-led team has improved a method to kill HIV-infected cells, using natural killer cells to target and eliminate them. The approach could lead to reducing or eliminating the virus from infected individuals who rely on medication.
Mathematical modeling can assess toxicants' impact on river populations without endangering the environment. A new model developed by Peng Zhou and Qihua Huang describes the interactions between a population and a toxicant in an advective environment.
Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center researchers have identified signaling mechanisms in pancreatic cancer cells that could be targeted for treatment. By inhibiting a specific protein, cancer cells' DNA can become damaged and induce programmed cell death, providing a potential new strategy for treating this aggressive form of cancer.
A computer model developed by Tufts University researchers mirrors the spread of misinformation in real life. The model takes into account pre-existing beliefs, which can influence how individuals accept new information, and provides insight into strategies to counter misinformation.
Researchers at Penn Medicine have discovered a new method to prevent the body's proteins from attacking treatment-carrying nanoparticles, allowing for more effective delivery of therapies. By coating nanoparticles with natural suppressors of complement activation, such as Factor I, the team has shown improved protection against immune ...
A UCI-led team identified a molecular feature in prostate cancer associated with ancestry, which may help predict patient risk and tailor treatment. ERV expression signatures also showed promise for identifying patients at greatest risk of progression across different ancestries.
A novel, simple, and extremely compact terahertz radiation source has been developed at TU Wien, enabling high intensities and small size. The technology uses resonant-tunnelling diodes and can be used in various applications such as material testing, airport security control, radio astronomy, and chemical sensors.
A study reveals how CSDE1 coordinates skin cell senescence, slowing down cellular function without causing death. This leads to the formation of a firewall against cancer, suppressing tumor growth.
A new PET/CT artificial intelligence model has been developed to predict the risk of future heart attacks with improved accuracy. By combining information from PET and CT angiography, the model provides a more robust prediction of heart attack risk than clinical data alone.
The ARC Centre of Excellence for All Sky Astrophysics in 3D has discovered that the youngest generation of stars will eventually stop contributing metals back to the universe. This change affects the composition of the galaxy over time, with around half of the carbon and all elements heavier than iron synthesized by stars like our Sun.
A team of researchers found that animals with strong site fidelity, which is returning to the same places to eat, travel, and raise their young, may not survive or reproduce as well in changing landscapes. This can lead to population declines, especially in species like mule deer affected by human development.
A recent study found that biomass burning aerosols enhance cloud formation in southeastern Asia through aerosol-radiation interactions, leading to significant climate effects. The researchers used a comprehensive approach combining model simulations with multiple data sources to investigate the role of wildfires in low-cloud formation.
A Rutgers study found that phthalates, commonly found in consumer products, can alter the production of essential placental hormones during pregnancy. Higher levels of phthalates have been linked to increased risk of preterm birth, gestational diabetes, and high blood pressure.
A team of researchers from Osaka University has developed a simple system based on electrochemical reactions that can perform complex calculations. The system uses polyoxometalate molecules and deionized water to process information and solve nonlinear problems.
Researchers advocate for an evidence-based approach to resource allocation, reallocating funds from wasteful healthcare activities to support education systems. This shift would address the significant negative impacts of COVID-19 disruptions on health, particularly among disadvantaged groups.
The NRG Oncology GOG 0261 trial demonstrated that paclitaxel and carboplatin is a non-inferior alternative to paclitaxel and ifosfamide for treating women with uterine carcinosarcoma. This regimen offers improved progression-free survival and overall survival compared to the current standard of care.
Researchers at Waseda University discovered a new protein isoform called Senp5S, which helps regulate Drp1 and mitochondrial dynamics during brain development. The study suggests a novel and vital role for post-translational SUMOylation in neuronal differentiation.
KTU researchers have developed new materials that significantly improve the stability and efficiency of perovskite solar cells. The new materials use a passivation method to prevent degradation, achieving an efficiency of 21.4% in record-breaking solar modules.
The CLASSY gene family controls tissue-specific DNA methylation patterns in Arabidopsis, which has broad implications for agriculture and medicine. The study reveals that CLSY genes modulate DNA methylation patterns in different plant tissues.
Researchers analyzed hospital visits, admissions, and deaths for 50,393 children with asthma to track trends. The study used health information exchange data, revealing a significant increase in pediatric asthma death rates despite a decline in hospital admissions.
Researchers found that adding boron to plasma improves heat confinement and reduces turbulence, a promising concept for fusion power. The study reveals a novel regime for confining heat in stellarators, which could advance the design as a blueprint for future fusion power plants.
Rapid coastal erosion in the Arctic is driven by permafrost thawing, ground ice melting, and sea surface temperature rises. This leads to increased erosion, water pollution, and loss of habitats for local communities.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have discovered a single relationship explaining the massive efficiency differences in extracellular electron shuttles. The study found that the transfer of the first electron from the shuttle to iron oxide determines the iron reduction rate, shedding light on a critical step in microbial respiration.
Researchers created a digital chromosome in yeast that stored image information and exhibited genetic and epigenetic features. The artificial chromosome formed chromatin structures with histones and displayed active transcription, overcoming data storage limitations.
A study by USF Genomics program found that prenatal exposure to the Rwandan genocide was associated with epigenetic modifications in genes linked to mental disorders. These 'chemical' changes can have a rapid response to trauma across generations, suggesting a possible link between historical trauma and modern-day mental health issues.
A meta-analysis found that breastfeeding significantly lowers a mother's risk of developing cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes. The review analyzed health data from nearly 1.2 million women across eight studies conducted in different countries.
A new study found that older Europeans who underestimate their health are more likely to adapt their behavior in response to COVID-19 concerns. This group may face increased social isolation and feelings of loneliness as a result.
A study on Ankylosaurus austriacus, a nodosaurid dinosaur from Austria, found that its brain was similar to those of its relatives, but with a small flocculus indicating poor balance. The dinosaur's auditory capacities were also limited due to a short lagena, suggesting an exceptionally sluggish lifestyle.
A study analyzing opioid overdose deaths among adults aged 55 and older found disparities by sex, race, and ethnicity. The research revealed that Black and Native American women had higher rates of opioid overdose deaths compared to their white female counterparts.
Researchers from the University of Liege have discovered a new methodology to identify phototrophic eukaryotes in fossils, revealing one of the first unambiguous algae. The discovery provides insights into the evolution of eukaryotic phototrophy during the Precambrian and the diversification of primary producers in early ecosystems.
Research suggests early-life infection, inflammation, and metabolic changes contribute to psychiatric disorders through critical brain development periods. This may lead to new treatment approaches for depression and psychosis.
A new study found a 1,886% increase in opioid-related overdose deaths among U.S. adults aged 55 and older between 1999 and 2019. Contributing factors include ageism, social isolation, depression, and declining cognitive function.
Researchers have created a human stem cell model of albinism using patient-derived stem cells, allowing for the study of how lack of pigmentation affects retinal development and function. This model will enable high-throughput screening of potential therapies to treat eye conditions associated with albinism.
Researchers at USC Viterbi School of Engineering have created a molecular device capable of recording and manipulating its surrounding bioelectric field. The device has the potential to provide ultra-fast, 3D high-resolution imaging of neural networks without damaging healthy cells or tissue.
A new 3D-printed wearable sweat sensor developed at SFU can analyze chemicals and health information in sweat to assess hydration, stress, and nutrition levels. The non-invasive technology has the potential to become a widely accessible sample type for monitoring human health status.
Researchers at UTA have discovered commonalities among caspases 3, 6, and 7 that could allow for the isolated activation of proteins in tumor cells without disrupting healthy cells. By understanding how effector caspases work in healthy conditions, they hope to develop methods to destroy abnormal cells while preserving healthy ones.
Researchers have successfully developed CRISPR-Cas9 inheritance control in male mice by shifting the gene editing window to match the timing of meiosis. This achievement expands the potential for human disease research and environmental applications, offering benefits such as laboratory efficiency improvements and cost savings.
A large-scale international study found that simple health assessments can identify people with chronic lung conditions like COPD. The screening tools were effective in diverse low- and middle-income settings, highlighting a pressing need for global awareness and early diagnosis.
Researchers at Rutgers University have discovered broomcorn millet in ancient Iraq, pushing the timeline of agriculture in the region. This finding highlights the interconnected nature of Eurasia and challenges previous assumptions about the capacity and resilience of ancient agricultural systems.
A new UCLA study shows that students can learn and retain information quite well when watching lectures at speeds of up to double the normal speed. However, once they exceed this limit, comprehension begins to suffer. The researchers found that spending time saved by speeding up videos on additional studying activities enhances learning.
Researchers developed a passive air sampler clip to estimate airborne virus concentrations, detecting SARS-CoV-2 in five out of 62 volunteers. The device could serve as a semiquantitative screening tool for assessing personal exposure and identifying high-risk areas.
A unique Irish study found that previous COVID-19 infection and age are associated with lower antibody levels six months after vaccination. The research highlights the importance of boosting vaccinations for vulnerable populations like nursing home residents.
A recent study published in Communications Biology found that the presence of the Bmal1 gene in the striatum affects alcohol consumption in both male and female mice, but in a sex-dependent manner. Males without the protein consumed more alcohol, while female mice with it consumed less.
Researchers at Duke University have discovered paddlewheel-like molecular dynamics that help push sodium ions through a quickly evolving class of solid-state batteries. The insights will guide researchers in their pursuit of a new generation of sodium-ion batteries to replace lithium-ion technology.
An AI-driven solution identifies sites on RNA and DNA molecules where interaction with potential drug candidates can occur. This allows pharmaceutical companies to discover new medications in a more focused and efficient manner.
Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital identified a 'modular' super-enhancer that controls gene expression during retina formation, revealing four distinct regions with different functions. This discovery provides a way to study gene expression during development and offers a blueprint for studying brain development.
A study by Kennedy Krieger Institute explores how GI problems in children with autism affect their families. Researchers identified four main themes: anxiety, diet, microbiome imbalance, and medication impact. The findings highlight the need for interventions to address poor gut health and its consequences.
A new framework evaluates medicines' impact on global health, calculating the impact of drugs used to treat diseases like TB, HIV/AIDS, malaria, and NTDs. The Global Health Impact Index model saves about 62 million disability-adjusted life-years, equivalent to saving almost a year of life for 1% of the world's population.
A new framework, iDIRECT, can effectively infer direct relationships in association networks, improving our understanding of complex systems. This approach has been successfully applied to gene regulatory networks in E. coli and microbial communities in response to climate warming.
This special issue celebrates the career of Professor Terence Partridge, who has enriched our understanding of skeletal muscle cell biology and muscular dystrophy. His research led to the development of therapeutic approaches for neuromuscular diseases like Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Researchers have discovered a treasure trove of previously unknown globular clusters in the outer regions of Centaurus A, an elliptical galaxy. The study provides new insights into galaxy formation and the distribution of dark matter in the universe.
A pioneering program at UC San Diego Health Sciences has trained 23% of faculty between 2017-2020, improving mentoring quality and faculty satisfaction, especially among underrepresented groups. The program's success suggests a universally applicable model for medical schools to improve diversity and success.
The DNAqua-Net team developed a practical guide for implementing DNA-based biomonitoring tools, considering four sample types and two primary analysis types. The guide sets out scientific consensus and trade-offs, addressing logistics, time, and budget constraints.
Researchers found that fungal communities play a key role in tree growth, with some species increasing tree growth rates up to a tree-fold. The study suggests that using specific fungal communities can help improve forestry and potentially absorb more carbon from the atmosphere.
A bioengineer at Northern Arizona University received a $507,642 NSF CAREER grant to improve cardiovascular flow computer models using machine learning. The project aims to develop software that synergistically integrates deep learning and traditional physics-based modeling to address fundamental issues in high-fidelity blood flow and ...
Researchers develop a nanobomb that selectively targets cancer cells with heat and releases anticancer drugs, offering a promising multimodal treatment approach. The nanobomb's biodegradability and safety make it an attractive option for cancer therapy.
Researchers found parasite densities to be far higher around water sources than elsewhere in the landscape, with cattle and elephants being particularly affected. The study provides ecological insights into how watering holes impact ecosystem health and interactions between species.
Researchers found that adding tomato concentrate to a mouse's diet reduced intestinal and systemic inflammation in individuals with chronic HIV. The study suggests targeting the inflamed intestine may be a novel way to prevent persistent inflammation.
Researchers evaluate the impact of severe water restrictions on almond plantations, finding that complete irrigation suspension leads to high mortality rates. Sustained deficit irrigation may be a more beneficial strategy for new plantations, mitigating economic losses and preserving production.
Researchers at the University of Bergen have discovered a new understanding of dopamine's regulatory mechanisms, which could lead to breakthroughs in treating neurodegenerative diseases. The study found that dopamine can bind to an enzyme called tyrosine hydroxylase, inactivating it and controlling its own production.
A simulation model estimated a nearly half reduction in total hospitalizations and deaths following the US COVID-19 vaccination program. The study suggests a significant association between vaccination and improved health outcomes during the first six months of 2021.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have identified MAPK4 as a key player in triple-negative breast cancer growth and resistance to therapies. Eliminating or inhibiting MAPK4 reduces TNBC cell growth and sensitizes cells to PI3K inhibitors.
The study's findings provide a foundation for developing efficient protein isolation techniques from insect powders, which could help address global hunger and malnutrition issues. Insect-based protein sources are rich in essential amino acids and offer a sustainable alternative to traditional farming methods.
Researchers found that increasing energy intake by feeding more milk replacer supports greater growth during summer. However, feeding frequency had no effect on growth during summer but improved growth during winter. The study suggests optimizing feeding strategies to maximize calf growth and welfare in hot environments.
Researchers at Tufts University have found that manipulating voltage patterns in tumor cells can significantly reduce tumor cell invasion and metastasis in animal models. Using FDA-approved ion channel blockers, they were able to normalize cell voltages, decrease tumor growth, and limit the spread of cancer cells.
A new project will provide scientific evidence on the outcomes of gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) for transgender people. The AFFIRM Relationships project seeks to identify causal links between GAHT and psychosocial functioning, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their care.
A new study has identified 74 previously unknown genomic regions that influence how people's bodies break down food into energy. These findings could help develop more personalized ways to maintain a healthy weight by taking into account an individual's genetic profile.
A new analysis reveals that approximately 1.3 million Californians, or nearly 3.5% of the population, rely on domestic wells for their water supply, while 370,000 more may be served by contaminated community water systems. Communities of color are disproportionately affected by drinking water contamination.
A new species of rainfrog, Pristimantis gretathunbergae, has been discovered in Panama and named after global environmental activist Greta Thunberg. The frog's habitat is threatened by climate change and deforestation, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.
The collaboration seeks to co-develop an efficient CO2 electrolyzer that can produce ethylene, a widely used chemical building block. Yushan Yan at UD will focus on making polymer membrane materials chemical resistant and strong for long-term durability.
Researchers found that zika virus injections destroyed brain tumors in mice and reduced tumor size in cerebral organoids, with immune cells alerting the system to its existence. This approach opens up prospects for virotherapy treatment of central nervous system tumors.
A 25-30 percent increase in winter rainfall over the eastern Arabian Peninsula was found since 1981, with a decrease of about 10-20 percent in the south and northeast. This shift is linked to an El Niño pattern in the tropical Pacific Ocean.
A clinical trial found that people with severe alcohol disorder stayed off alcohol for longer when treated with low doses of ketamine combined with psychological therapy. The therapy showed promise in preventing relapse and improving liver function, with participants having lower depression rates after three months.
A recent study found that gender bias in linguistics textbooks has not changed since 1997, with male protagonists appearing twice as often as female ones and being associated with more prominent roles. The study suggests that implicit biases against women are perpetuated in language education.
Research reveals lipids from obesity make cancer cells more aggressive and prone to form tumors. Obesity increases the risk of developing cancer by altering the environment surrounding cancerous cells, allowing them to adapt and form tumors.
Research reveals organic aggregates can emit polychromic and white light with high efficiency, opening up new avenues for OLEDs and encryption. However, more work is needed to fully understand the underlying mechanisms and improve performance.
A state-wide Massachusetts infection control program, implemented in 360 nursing homes, reduced COVID-19 infections among vulnerable residents, including those with dementia. Cohorting residents and proper adherence to infection control guidelines were key factors in this reduction.
Researchers found that sleep deprivation can significantly increase serotonin 2A receptors in the brain within hours, which may influence schizophrenia symptoms. This discovery suggests environmental stressors could alter the balance of brain receptors controlled by antipsychotic drugs.
An international team of geomorphologists and physicists has discovered a consistent number in the frequencies of shifting grains, enabling reliable classification of newly discovered sand ripples. This finding could help explain the formation of mysterious new sand waves on Mars and evaluate past climatic conditions.
A study found an antibody, P36-5D2, to decrease infectious virus load in lungs and brain, reducing lung disease in laboratory models. The discovery offers hope for developing antibody therapies against COVID-19 and its emerging variants.
A recent study found that the Omicron COVID-19 variant can significantly reduce the virus-neutralizing ability of Pfizer BioNTech vaccines, with a 32-fold reduction observed. However, the study suggests that vaccines may still provide protection against severe disease and death.
A new study reveals that radiologist fatigue impacts performance differently depending on experience level. Less-experienced radiologists are more likely to recommend additional imaging for women undergoing breast cancer screening when interpreting digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) images later in the day.
A recent study reveals significant differences between the gut microbiomes of male and female American minks, suggesting a surprising sexual distinction in carnivores. The findings have implications for future wildlife research, as analyzing fecal samples may not provide accurate assessments of population sex.
The study found that adopting formal Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) frameworks is not enough to deal with complex and risky international business contexts. Instead, it takes a broader organisational engagement and decentralised responses to achieve positive performance outcomes.
A new international study analyzed over 10,300 children with COVID-19, finding that older age, pre-existing chronic conditions, and symptom duration were significant risk factors for severe outcomes. The study also revealed that healthy-looking children rarely deteriorated significantly after initial hospital visits.