The Epstein Family Foundation has donated $50 million to USC and UC San Diego to accelerate Alzheimer's research and discover effective therapies for the disease. The collaboration aims to compress study design, patient recruitment, and clinical trials to expedite the discovery of better treatments and a cure.
Researchers have identified two blood proteins that influence ageing and health. High levels of apolipoprotein(a) and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 can increase the risk of age-related diseases such as heart disease and stroke.
A meta-analysis of 4280 samples found cell phone use associated with reduced sperm motility, viability, and concentration. The study suggests male users should limit daily cell phone use to protect their fertility.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that 20% of teens and young adults seeking treatment for addiction had elevated social impairment scores, indicating previously unrecognized autistic traits. These individuals were more likely to experience stimulant and opioid use disorders.
A new test has been developed to screen for three rare genetic disorders - Prader Willi, Angelman, and Dup15q syndromes - in newborns. The test uses Methylation Specific-Quantitative Melt Analysis (MS-QMA) and showed high accuracy in distinguishing between those with the disorders and those without.
Physicists have detected X particles in quark-gluon plasma produced in the Large Hadron Collider, a phenomenon that could reveal the particles' unknown structure. The discovery uses machine-learning techniques to sift through massive datasets and identify decay patterns characteristic of X particles.
Researchers at Boston University found no association between COVID-19 vaccination and conception likelihood in female or male partners. However, COVID-19 infection was linked to reduced fertility in men, particularly those testing positive within 60 days of a cycle.
Research found that patients with hepatitis B were unable to afford generic drug entecavir due to high out-of-pocket costs, despite generic manufacturer competition. The study concludes that patients appear shielded from benefits of generic competition, leading to a significant patient-cost burden.
Researchers at GIST demonstrate that ultrasound pulses can reduce β-amyloid plaque concentration and tau protein levels in AD-model mice, suggesting a promising non-invasive therapeutic strategy. The treatment also improves brain connectivity without causing harm to brain tissue.
A recent study published in Journal of Biosafety and Biosecurity suggests that the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 may have evolved from a strain that infected mice. The research found mutations at five key sites in the viral protein, indicating adaptation to infect mouse cells.
Researchers at Hiroshima University discovered that a broccoli compound, DIM, induces controlled cell death and recycling of cellular components in fission yeast. The study suggests that targeting the nuclear envelope could be an early target for future anti-cancer treatments.
A new method termed Optical Lock-in Detection Super-resolution Dipole Orientation Mapping (OLID-SDOM) is developed for weak fluorescence anisotropy mapping in live cells. This approach achieves high spatial resolution and speed, allowing for the study of subcellular structures with unprecedented precision.
Researchers from Osaka University created patient-derived heart cells that exhibit reduced contractility and impaired desmosome assembly when carrying a mutation associated with arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy. Replacing the mutated gene restored normal function, suggesting a potential treatment approach for this disease.
A study published in EPJ Data Science explores the effectiveness of counter speech in curbing online hate and disinformation. The research reveals that organized counter speech appears to contribute to a more balanced public discourse by increasing the frequency of counter speech and decreasing that of hate speech.
A study from North Carolina State University demonstrates the accuracy of a less invasive technique for monitoring wildlife health using dried blood spots. Researchers found that this method is comparable to traditional techniques, allowing for easier and less stressful data collection from wild populations.
New research reveals the brain's flexibility in multitasking while walking, improving stability and performance. The study uses a Mobile Brain/Body Imaging system to record brain activity while participants walk on a treadmill or perform cognitive tasks.
Britain's urban areas have sufficient green space to support a large-scale 'grow your own' movement, meeting dietary needs and reducing reliance on imports. The study estimates that converted urban spaces could produce up to eight times the current UK fruit and vegetable output.
UTSW researchers develop novel strategy to combat viral infections by inhibiting protein network. The approach has shown promise in preventing replication of RSV and coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, a leading cause of pediatric deaths worldwide.
A recent study has found that older adults who scored higher on a fatigue scale were more than twice as likely to die within 2.7 years compared to those with lower scores. Researchers say this can serve as an indicator for earlier mortality and encourage people to stick with exercise goals.
A new study found that staff assumptions about minoritized groups contribute to variability in nursing home care for residents with advanced dementia. Remedies include addressing staff biases, increasing funding, and standardizing advance-care planning.
A Rice University study analyzing COVID-19 death data found that Black and Hispanic communities experienced a disproportionately high fraction of losses from COVID-19 mortality. The study also examined the relationship between air pollution and COVID-19 deaths, but found no statistically significant correlations at a countywide level.
A recent study found that U.S. college students who use appearance- and performance-enhancing drugs and substances are at a higher risk of developing eating disorders. The study analyzed over 7,000 students and discovered a significant association between the use of protein supplements, creatine supplements, and diuretics or water pill...
The Nutrition for Precision Health study will use data from 10,000 participants to develop algorithms predicting individual responses to food and dietary routines. The goal is to create more personalized nutrition recommendations and reduce health disparities.
A phase 3 clinical trial is underway to test the safety and efficacy of jacifusen, an experimental drug that lowered levels of toxic protein FUS in a patient with juvenile ALS. The trial aims to determine if the drug can slow disease progression in symptomatic patients.
Researchers at HKUST have found a way to control the quantum state through the loss of particles in an atomic system. This approach offers a new path towards realizing unprecedented quantum states.
A new software uses pose estimation to track human motion with high accuracy, providing an objective assessment of motor function. The technology has the potential to revolutionize neurological care by enabling patients to record video that can be analyzed by their physicians remotely.
Analytical and intelligence professionals in police forces reported feeling anxious and exhausted while working with traumatic material during the pandemic. Additional support is needed to manage working from home or commuting into work, according to new research.
A study found frequent rates of respiratory infections in children under 3 years of age in isolated First Nations communities, related to poor housing conditions. High levels of mould and endotoxin were also detected, with 85% of houses lacking controlled ventilation.
Astronomers have found an intermediate-mass black hole in the Andromeda galaxy, one of only a few confirmed objects of its kind. The discovery sheds light on the formation of galaxies and provides insights into the population of black holes at the centers of low-mass galaxies.
A new study in Ohio finds that neighborhoods with more opioid overdoses have higher rates of child welfare investigations and confirmed cases of child maltreatment. Concentrated disadvantage measures, such as poverty levels, are particularly associated with severe issues with child maltreatment.
Researchers developed a soft, stretchable, self-powered thermometer that can be integrated into stretchable electronics and soft robots, enabling new human-machine interfaces and applications. The sensor has high sensitivity and quick response time, and can measure temperatures up to 200 degrees Celsius or as cold as -100 degrees Celsius.
Four COVID-19 vaccines prompt the body to make effective, long-lasting T cells against SARS-CoV-2. These T cells can recognize variants of concern, including Delta and Omicron. Fully vaccinated people have fewer memory B cells and neutralizing antibodies against the Omicron variant.
A recent study has investigated the effect of donor selection on transplanted microbiota establishment and long-term stability in aged hosts. Autologous FMT demonstrated better resilience than heterologous FMT in restoring gut microbiota diversity after antibiotic-induced perturbation.
A study of 3,733 veterans found that most aspects of their health and broader well-being worsened over the first three years after leaving military service. Women veterans particularly faced declines in health and well-being, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and support services.
Researchers at Rice University have discovered a new insect species, Neuroterus valhalla, alongside its fully sequenced genome. The tiny wasp spends most of the year in a crypt and has unique life cycle habits.
Researchers found a markedly increased risk of carditis associated with BNT162b2 vaccination, particularly in adolescents after the second dose. The study's findings highlight the need for refined vaccination strategies to balance risk and benefits across different sub-populations.
A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that increased physical activity can prevent approximately 3.8 million deaths among US adults aged 40 to 85. By analyzing data from accelerometers worn by study participants, researchers estimated the potential number of deaths prevented through regular physical activity.
A 24-week study found that dogs fed a reduced calorie, high-protein, high-fiber diet achieved healthier weight without losing muscle mass. Their serum triglycerides, insulin, and inflammatory markers decreased with weight loss.
A new study found that people with dementia who see the same GP consistently have lower rates of health complications and fewer emergency hospital admissions. They are also less likely to develop delirium and incontinence, and receive safer prescribing.
A new study found that disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs do not protect people with rheumatoid arthritis from developing Parkinson's disease. However, using chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine was associated with a lower risk of PD. The study controlled for various factors, including comorbidities and age.
Adding women to a company's board of directors can help speed up necessary product recalls and increase customer safety, according to new research. Companies are also less likely to hide quality problems when more women are on the board.
Researchers developed AI tools to precisely measure the synergistic effects of existing medical conditions on the heart and blood vessels. The study found that comorbidities significantly influenced transplant risks, with some adults facing 405 times higher risks than those without cardiomyopathy.
Men and women with advanced kidney disease show differing health-related quality of life trajectories, with women experiencing lower scores initially but a more gradual decline over time. Factors such as kidney function decline, phosphate levels, and hemoglobin also influence physical and mental health scores in both men and women.
Researchers found that wild chimpanzees do not independently invent complex tool use behaviors like nut cracking. Instead, they learn from observing and imitating others, similar to humans. This challenges the long-held assumption that chimpanzee culture is non-cumulative.
A UOC study found that non-code tasks are highly significant in open-source systems, complementing programming work. Researchers analyzed 100 npm projects to gain a deeper understanding of collaboration dynamics.
A recent study published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence found that people with underweight who drink excessively may be at an even higher risk of dying from heart disease, cancer, and other causes. The researchers analyzed data on mortality risk among drinkers and non-drinkers using the CDC categories to define
A survey study assessed psychological distress among U.S. adults during four different phases of the COVID-19 pandemic, finding significant increases in symptoms during lockdowns and reopening phases. The study suggests that ongoing mental health support is essential to mitigate these effects.
Researchers developed an experimental drug that silences a faulty FUS gene, potentially treating rare and aggressive forms of ALS. The treatment delayed motor neuron degeneration in mice and showed promise in a patient with FUS-ALS.
A new study by the Mental Health and Climate Change Alliance found that climate change weather events, such as last summer's Western North American heat dome, significantly increased anxiety levels among British Columbians. The researchers used a validated measurement tool to explore the impacts of extreme heat on mental health in Canada.
A 2018 clinical trial found that patients with early-stage cervical cancer who underwent open surgery had higher progression-free survival rates than those who underwent minimally invasive surgery. Researchers now propose a series of steps to reevaluate the use of MIS in cervical cancer treatment.
The new test, developed at the Paul Scherrer Institute, uses a novel functional principle to provide reliable results on Covid-19 disease progression and its course. It can also detect other diseases and Covid variants, offering more predictive power than existing rapid antigen tests.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have partnered with BHP to identify new areas for nickel and copper deposits critical to the electric vehicle (EV) revolution. The project aims to challenge current understanding of the nickel mineral system, potentially opening up new exploration search space globally.
A study by Brazilian researchers found that these large mammals help regulate plant diversity, productivity, and biomass in understory areas. The spatial structure of plant communities is also influenced, with the Jussara palm playing a key role in attracting animals and dispersing seeds.
A comprehensive review of watermelon consumption has found evidence that eating watermelon regularly may promote cardiovascular and metabolic health. The fruit contains essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids that support blood pressure regulation, lipid reduction, and glucose control.
Researchers found that prenatal exposure to nicotine and its by-products produces long-term effects on sleep and stress-response in mice. This early-life exposure can lead to alterations in the hippocampus, a sensitive structure that develops after birth.
Researchers trap Majorana quasi-particles in iron-based superconductor Fe (Te, Se) using crystal domain walls. The study finds that these defects can bind Majorana quasi-particles with linear dispersion, proposing a new way to manipulate and fuse them.
Breathing coordinates neuronal activity throughout the brain during sleep and quiet, enabling memory consolidation and synchronization of brain regions. This novel mechanism, termed 'respiratory corollary discharge', provides a fundamental link between respiratory and limbic circuits.
Researchers from Tokyo Tech created hybrid ferritin nanocages with histidine residues, achieving 1.5 times higher metal ion uptake and improved catalytic efficiency for alcohol production. The new cages show promising potential as viable catalysts in the chemical industry.
A UCLA-led study found that Americans' use of common outpatient health services dipped during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for those with Medicaid or Medicare-Medicaid dual eligibility insurance. The study suggests that patients may be missing treatments for acute illnesses and delaying preventive care.
The Bureau of Reclamation has invested $1.6 million in nine innovative desalination technologies aiming to make water treatment more affordable and sustainable. The projects focus on reducing energy requirements and environmental impacts, providing communities with a new source of usable water.
Researchers found that CBN preserves mitochondrial function and prevents oxidative damage to nerve cells, suggesting potential for treating age-related neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The compound works independently of cannabinoid receptors, making it a promising therapeutic option.
Researchers from Hokkaido University have proposed a framework to clarify the distinction between genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and genome-edited organisms (GEOs). The framework considers scientific, ethical, and social factors to determine whether an organism is a GMO or GEO. The proposal aims to enhance regulatory reliability...
A new study reveals that the Omicron variant is sensitive to inhibition by the interferon response, an unspecific immune reaction present in all body cells. This provides the first explanation for why COVID-19 patients infected with Omicron are less likely to experience severe disease.
A study published in Urology Practice found that urologists in group practices or alternative payment models scored higher in most MIPS categories and potentially earned higher reimbursements. In contrast, individual urologists scored lower across all domains except for cost.
A new species of angel shark, Squatina mapama, has been identified in the Central American Caribbean, shedding light on the region's biodiversity. Genetic analyses reveal distinct characteristics from other related species, emphasizing the importance of forensic science in understanding cryptic species within the genus.
A large data analysis reveals that primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is more common than initially estimated, with a prevalence of 1 in 7,500 people globally. The study also found ethnic heterogeneity in PCD-causing gene variants, with African descent and non-Finnish European groups showing higher rates.
Researchers found that alcohol-related problems increased by 49% for women and 69% for men during the pandemic. Men's alcohol use declined by 20%, while women's remained steady, with feelings of loneliness playing a role in drinking patterns.
A recent study published in the journal Risk Analysis found that increased voting by mail during the COVID-19 pandemic did not jeopardize election safety. The research analyzed potential risks identified in a mail voting attack tree and concluded that expanding mail voting increases voter access and reduces adversarial interference.
The HTRC will create a framework for researchers to build and implement their own tools to access the HathiTrust data more directly. The project aims to enable users to interact with the rich data extracted from the HathiTrust Digital Library's collection of over 17.5 million digitized volumes.
The latest nTIDE COVID Update reports lower unemployment rates for people with disabilities, following a positive trend for four consecutive months. The early impact of the omicron variant is seen in small rises in furloughs, but experts predict continued improvement as businesses adapt to the pandemic.
Middle-aged men with high levels of anxiety and worry are at greater biological risk for developing heart disease and type 2 diabetes as they age. The study found that cardiometabolic disease risk increased with age, regardless of anxiety levels, but anxious individuals were more likely to develop the condition over time.
Researchers at University of Washington developed a fast, cheap test for COVID-19 that combines speed of antigen tests with accuracy of PCR tests. The Harmony COVID-19 test detects genetic material from SARS-CoV-2 virus with 97% accuracy and provides results in under 20 minutes.
Physicists have demonstrated experimentally tunable skyrmions in optical systems, offering a new mechanism for transforming between various topological textures. The results show great agreement with theoretical predictions and enable diverse applications in advanced photonics.
A team of researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute and ETH Zurich have developed a computational approach to identify genomic safe harbors (GSHs) with high potential for safe insertion of therapeutic genes. The study validated two GSH sites in adoptive T cell therapies and in vivo gene therapies for skin diseases.
A deforestation emissions reduction scheme in Indonesia prevented over 70 million tons of carbon emissions, but this is a tiny contribution to the country's overall commitment under the Paris Agreement. The study found that dryland forests inside the moratorium area had higher forest cover compared to similar areas outside.
The Earth BioGenome Project aims to generate reference genomes for all eukaryotic life, providing tools for preventing biodiversity loss and pathogen spread. With over 5,000 scientists involved, the project is entering a new phase with ambitious goals, including producing genomes for 9,400 taxonomic families.
A study published in JAMA found that 75% of COVID-19 ICU survivors experience symptoms one year post-admission, including fatigue, anxiety, and cognitive issues. These health problems significantly impact their daily lives, with over half reporting work-related issues.
A UCLA-led study found that aducanumab's ancillary care services, such as MRIs and neurologist visits, account for nearly 20% of total Medicare costs. The estimated annual spending on the drug could increase Medicare premiums.
Researchers found that moderate aerobic cycling improved auditory verbal learning and processing speed, as well as increased volumes of the hippocampus and cerebellar cortex. The study suggests exercise interventions may be an attractive option for improving cognitive function in individuals with traumatic brain injury.
A new study found that living in a disadvantaged neighbourhood increases a child's risk of developing overweight by school age. Children born in less affluent areas were more likely to gain weight and develop obesity, even when controlling for other factors.
Roswell Biotechnologies has developed a molecular electronics sensor on a semiconductor chip, enabling real-time detection of single molecules for diverse applications including drug discovery, diagnostics, and DNA sequencing. The platform offers unlimited scalability in sensor pixel density and high resolution measurements.
A Northwestern University study finds that a two-year pause in state funding contributed to the 2016 surge in Chicago youth homicides. The research suggests that restoring funding could be key to reducing violence among young people.
A study in Current Biology found that hippos recognize individual voices, responding more aggressively to strangers than neighbors. The researchers hope to learn more about what hippos communicate through their calls, exploring how they recognize sounds and whether voices reveal characteristics like size or sex.
Researchers developed novel SnO2 QDs that passivate the buried interface, control crystallization, and provide a favorable electronic and physical interfacial contact. These devices achieved high PCEs and record efficiencies in upscaling blade-coated perovskite systems.
Researchers at MU developed a new framework to identify people previously overlooked for AUD, focusing on 13 risk factors such as impulsive behavior and reward sensitivity. The framework aims to provide more accurate diagnoses and connect individuals with tailored treatment options.
A new study reveals that drugs commonly used to treat cystic fibrosis work by aiding protein folding, binding CFTR to ensure proper configuration. This finding may lead to the development of novel medications for diseases caused by misfolded proteins.
Researchers found that some people's genes determine whether they store fat in a 'favourable' or 'unfavourable' way, affecting their risk of diseases. Even those with 'favourable adiposity' are still at risk for certain health issues.
Researchers at Rice University and Baylor College of Medicine have created an antibody with an engineered peptide that effectively targets and attacks bone tumors in breast cancer. The study shows the therapeutic efficacy is best when a moderate amount of the drug compound is delivered, offering new hope for treating bone metastases.
A recent study challenges the idea that meat consumption drove major evolutionary changes in humans, suggesting instead that increased research attention may have skewed evidence. The research team analyzed data from nine sites across eastern Africa and found no sustained increase in carnivory after Homo erectus appeared.
A new study published in the Journal of Dairy Science found that Norwegian Red calf personality is related to feeding behavior and growth, with calves displaying different traits affecting their milk and concentrate intake. Calves weaned based on individual concentrate intake had higher average daily gains postweaning.
A new study from Regenstrief Institute found that local mask policies have a strong impact on mask-wearing behavior in public places. The research team observed 76,000 people at various locations and found that most people wore masks even after the state lifted its mandate.
A longitudinal survey of over 3,000 adolescents aged 11-14 found that supportive relationships with family and friends, physical activity, and better sleep helped shield against the pandemic's negative impact on mental health. Girls were more likely than boys to experience psychological distress during the pandemic.
A major international study identified seven new genes associated with an increased risk of febrile convulsions, which are seizures in children under five with a fever above 38.5C. The study found that children with more 'febrile convulsion genes' are younger at their first seizure and more likely to be hospitalised.
A new 9-step blueprint has been developed to improve the use of genetics and breeding strategies in aquaculture species, aiming to strengthen food security and meet growing global demand for fish. The guidelines also aim to address concerns over fish stocks, mercury levels, and farmed fish nutritional value.
A recent study led by the University of Texas at Austin has found that liquid water detected under Mars' ice-covered south pole is likely a dusty mirage. However, the researchers suggest that ancient lakes and riverbeds may still be present on the planet, offering clues about its wetter past.
Green backyards in cities provide multiple benefits, including improved thermal comfort and increased carbon storage. Small differences in green structure can yield significant benefits, with greener courtyards showing up to 11°C cooling effects. Proper maintenance is key to enhancing these benefits.
Researchers found that advanced paternal age and obesity are associated with lower implantation rates in couples experiencing unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss. The study analyzed nearly 800 couples who underwent IVF treatment, revealing a 12.6% increased risk of implantation failure for every one-unit increase in BMI.
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on children's mental well-being, with increased symptoms of anxiety, depression, and self-harm. Academic performance has also suffered due to virtual learning and reduced access to healthcare, exacerbating existing achievement gaps. Physical health issues have been exacerbated by reduced ...
A new study from Northwestern University finds that the COVID-19 pandemic has widened gender disparities in family medicine, with women physicians submitting fewer studies during stay-at-home orders. The research highlights the impact of remote work on women's careers and suggests potential solutions to address these disparities.
A recent Indiana University study found that a spouse's education has a positive impact on their partner's overall health. The researchers used data from the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study and discovered an effect size comparable to that of individual education levels.