A new clinical trial found that COVID-19 booster vaccinations in adults elicit high levels of neutralizing antibodies against the Omicron variant, but these antibody levels decrease substantially within 3 months. The immune response to Omicron sub-lineages shows reduced susceptibility to rapidly emerging variants.
A third of COVID-19 patients experience neurological symptoms due to SARS-CoV-2's effect on the central nervous system. Researchers now investigate mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 signaling in the CNS microvasculature with a new NIDA grant.
A comprehensive global dataset of lakes and reservoirs has been published, offering new information on land and fresh water use. The research provides a better understanding of the impact of changing climate and human actions on global freshwater resources.
New research by UC Santa Barbara anthropologist Douglas Kennett links climate change to civil unrest among the ancient Maya. The study found that drought may have stoked violence, leading to the collapse of the city's institutions and abandonment.
Researchers have dated the emergence of genetic variants characteristic of modern humans to two distinct periods: one around 40,000 years ago, linked to population growth and divergence from Africa, and an older one over 100,000 years ago, reflecting the species' greatest diversity in Africa. These findings complement the mosaic nature...
Scientists at Kyoto University propose a novel approach using holograms to approximate the universe's expansion in de Sitter space. The model uses conformal field theory and a positive integer for the cosmological constant, enabling the identification of the first example of two-dimensional CFT.
Researchers at UCLA have developed a roadmap detailing how stem cells become sensory interneurons, which enable sensations like touch and pain. The study identifies protocols for producing all types of sensory interneurons in the laboratory, paving the way for cell therapies to restore sensation in people with spinal cord injuries.
A large nationwide analysis found that Black adults treated for peripheral artery disease (PAD) are more likely to experience adverse outcomes, including amputation and death. The study suggests that structural racism and comorbidities contribute to these disparities in treatment and outcomes.
A study by Australian National University found that at least 25,245 people in remote communities had access to non-compliant drinking water services. The researchers also identified 408 locations with poor water quality, including 40% of Indigenous communities. A national drinking water database is urgently needed to address these gaps.
Shorter winters have reduced ice coverage by 31 days over the past 165 years, leading to altered lake biota, increased evaporation and salinity. Climate change is expected to worsen these effects, threatening ecosystem services including water quality and human consumption.
A new database has been created to support conservation efforts by filling the large gaps in our understanding of where and how human activities threaten wild species around the world. The database presents a valuable tool for planning conservation actions at any spatial scale and preventing species extinctions globally.
A new study suggests that current vaccine boosters intensify protections against serious infection caused by Omicron subvariants. The research found that booster doses bring neutralizing antibodies to appreciable levels against all Omicron subvariants, consistent with other evidence of expanded memory B cells and antibody production.
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have identified a critical protein, GSPT1, that facilitates Lassa virus infection. Targeting this protein with an existing drug candidate, CC-90009, shows promise in reducing Lassa virus growth without cell toxicity.
Researchers have gained new understanding of solvation, a process that changes water's physical and chemical properties. Strong interactions between ions and water molecules are disrupted by electrostatic interactions, leading to changes in intermolecular energy transfer.
Researchers develop a new method to assess inconsistencies in mercury trade data for ASGM, highlighting potential illegal and informal mercury use flows. The study identifies inconsistencies in Hg trade statistics in African, Central and South American, and some Asian countries.
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center discovered that most IVF embryo failures are due to spontaneous errors in DNA replication during cell division. These errors can cause chromosomal abnormalities, leading to the failure of embryos to develop, a common obstacle in fertility treatments.
Researchers at Tohoku University successfully created a half-metal material with zero magnetization by combining iron, chromium, and sulfur. This breakthrough antiferromagnetic-like half metal enhances performance and improves the efficiency of electronic devices.
Exotic snakebites in the UK are increasing, with 321 reported cases over 11 years, mostly affecting children under 5. Most bites result in mild symptoms, but severe cases have occurred, prompting concerns about illegal snake ownership and access to expert advice.
Researchers found that COVID-19 vaccinations have an underperforming immune response in the airways compared to natural infection. Nasal sprays could provide a boost to protect against emerging variants and offer higher cellular and humoral immunity. The study suggests that mucosal antibodies play a crucial role in neutralizing the virus.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a way to manufacture highly efficient and semitransparent organic solar cells using a peel-off patterning technique. The technology has achieved record efficiencies of 10% and is suitable for use in commercial windows with a transparency nearing 50%.
Researchers discovered that rattlesnakes' venom evolves through balancing selection, favoring genetic diversity and a diverse set of tools to subdue prey. This finding has implications for developing anti-venom therapeutics to better treat snakebites globally.
A University of California San Diego study finds that importers highly dependent on Japan increased total imports of those products after the 2011 earthquake, intensifying offshoring rather than reshoring. Global supply chains are difficult to untangle following a crisis, and firms opt for offshore production to keep costs down.
A study found a link between depression, an inflammatory diet, and the development of frailty. Consuming a pro-inflammatory diet may exacerbate the development of frailty in individuals with depressive symptoms.
A new broadband near-field chiral source enables comparison of different edge states to advance applications in integrated photonics and wireless devices. The research advances the field of chiral photonics science, promoting applications of chiral-sorting technology for microwave metadevices.
A study published in American Journal of Medicine Open found that gun death rates among US children increased by 30% from 2010 to 2019. States with stronger gun control laws, such as New York and California, saw a decrease in youth firearm mortality rates, suggesting that policies can impact the epidemic of youth suicides.
A new study published in Zootaxa confirms the discovery of Australia's first fossil vulture, Cryptogyps lacertosus, which lived during the late Pleistocene period. The bird was a scavenger, not a hunter, and its presence highlights the diversity of Australian megafauna and ecosystem implications.
A new study reviewed progress made towards an eco-friendly insect pest management approach in subtropical agro-ecosystems in South Africa. The research highlights the need for integrated pest management strategies to reduce Maximum Residue Levels caused by pesticide use.
A new Omicron-specific mRNA vaccine, Omnivax, has been developed by Yale scientists to offer superior immune protection against two viral subvariants. The vaccine increased neutralizing antibody response against BA.1 and BA.2.12.1 Omicron subvariants in pre-immunized mice 19-fold and eight-fold, respectively.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine have identified genes linked to cigarette smoking and drinking, revealing their association with other substances like cocaine. The study's computational tool, H-MAGMA, helps parse the complex genetics involved in substance abuse, providing a foundation for developing new treatments.
Research from the University of Georgia found that feminist mothers and daughters have more positive body images, with less shame about their bodies. The study also shows how mothers' negative body talk affects daughters' body image.
Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have revealed that zinc (Zn) content is essential for the methionine-mediated regulation of pluripotent stem cells (PSCs). The team developed a protocol to convert PSCs into insulin-producing β cells, overcoming diabetes treatment challenges.
A rise in severe acute hepatitis of unknown causes (SAHUC) in children has been reported worldwide, with symptoms including jaundice, vomiting, and diarrhea. Diagnostic tests such as liver enzymes and biopsy reports can help identify the disease, but its etiology remains unclear.
A new study found outliers in influenza-negative ILI cases in global surveillance networks 13.3 weeks before the first reported COVID-19 peaks in 16 countries. This suggests undetected spread of COVID-19 and highlights the importance of strengthening disease surveillance networks.
A new study by Oregon State University researchers found that Christopher McCandless's ill-fated river crossing in 1992 was thwarted by an intense, short-lived runoff event. This would have allowed him to cross the river if he had tried a day earlier or later.
Researchers analyzed electronic health records and found rosuvastatin associated with higher risks of hematuria, proteinuria, and kidney failure. High-dose rosuvastatin poses additional risk, especially for patients with advanced kidney disease.
Researchers at Tohoku University have successfully fabricated highly transparent solar cells using a 2D atomic sheet. The solar cells achieved an average transparency of 79%, making them suitable for placement in various locations, including windows and human skin.
The discovery of Rabana-Merquly provides important insights into the settlement structures and history of the Parthians, a major power with surprisingly little known information. The fortress may be the lost city of Natounia, with wall reliefs potentially depicting its founder.
Researchers have discovered that lymphatics, which remove waste from the body, also help seed early brain cells in zebrafish. The study found that precursor cells expressing a specific gene migrate to the brain via lymphatic vessels, highlighting the importance of these vessels in microglia development and brain function.
Researchers at the Institut Pasteur and CNRS studied SARS-CoV-2 replication in bat cells, finding that viral infection triggers a powerful immune response that prevents the virus from replicating. The study uses real-time imaging techniques to visualize the speed of cell infection and the formation of syncytia.
Researchers found reduced levels of Histone Deacetylase I (HDAC I) in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease, linked to deleterious effects of misfolded beta-amyloid and tau proteins. HDAC inhibitors, currently being tested against mild Alzheimer's disease, may be harming patients rather than helping them.
Researchers discovered that individual cells use multimodal perception to integrate external and internal cues when making decisions. This finding has significant implications for understanding cellular decision-making in various contexts, including cancer treatment resistance.
Research by the Animal Welfare Department of IZSAM found that horses living in the wild had higher cortisol levels than those stabled and employed in work activities. The study suggests that proper management by humans is more respectful of horse well-being than a pure nature condition.
A new recombinant VSV-vectored vaccine developed at UTMB provides rapid protection against lethal Lassa fever, a pathogen causing severe symptoms and high mortality rates. The vaccine was found to be effective against different strains of the virus, critical for outbreak scenarios.
Researchers analyzed data from wearable activity monitors on nearly 600 participants to identify changes in movement patterns that may predict cognitive decline. The study found significant differences in activity during waking hours and afternoons, with fragmented activity being a key indicator of mild cognitive impairment or Alzheime...
Researchers found that short bouts of reduced circulation with a blood pressure cuff can boost vascular and cardiac functions, lower blood pressure, and reduce the heart's workload. This technique, known as remote ischemic preconditioning, may be beneficial for people at high risk of heart attacks and strokes.
A long-term study on plastic degradation in oceans reveals significant differences between beach and shipwreck samples. Researchers found that beach-dried plastic pellets had undergone extensive degradation, while those trapped in the wreck showed minimal signs of aging.
A study suggests three roadway treatments - better lighting, shorter crossings, and converted left-turns - can improve the safety of older pedestrians. Research by Oregon State University found that these measures could reduce exposure time for pedestrians in the roadway, increasing their safety.
A new general theory describes how temperature affects living things at all scales, predicting patterns in metabolism, growth rate, and mortality rate. The model combines elements lacking in earlier attempts, providing a universal framework for understanding temperature's impact on biology.
A study by Toyohashi University of Technology found that the human visual system flexibly modulates observers' perception according to their posture. The research used the Necker cube as a visual stimulus and found a significant difference in probability of perception depending on the viewing posture, with a bias towards looking up.
Researchers have discovered neural plastic changes that can improve functional recovery after a cervical spinal cord injury. Using an optogenetic neuromodulation strategy, they found that the intact corticospinal system in the opposite side of the brain and spinal cord can be modulated to take over control of the damaged forelimb, resu...
Researchers at King's College London discovered nine genes associated with metabolic disease risk in fat tissue. The study found that diet can affect belly fat accumulation through epigenetic changes.
A study by Imperial College London found that 64% of calories in school lunches come from ultra-processed foods, contributing to childhood obesity. The analysis revealed higher levels of processed foods in packed lunches and secondary school meals, with lower-income children more likely to consume them.
A meta-analysis of 54 studies confirms that caregiver engagement across healthcare transitions is crucial in preventing rehospitalizations and enhancing patient outcomes. Caregivers play a critical role in facilitating care transitions when the healthcare team actively partners with them.
A study by scientists at the University of Texas at Austin found that the scaly-breasted wren's song consistently kept time for its duration, even as pauses increased in length. The results suggest that birds can track time more accurately than expected, challenging conventional wisdom on animal cognition.
The study reveals that female Prussian carps use hijacked sperm to reproduce, producing only female clones. This unique reproductive method has allowed the species to colonize new habitats and outcompete native species.
A study found that cannabis use and daily use are more common in US states with recreational cannabis laws compared to those without. Cigarette smokers in these states have even higher rates of cannabis use.
A postdoctoral researcher uses computational tools to characterize light mesons, shedding light on the strong interaction and its role in binding quarks. The study aims to improve understanding of how matter stays together and bridge the gap between experimentalists and theorists.
A Rutgers study found that women are more likely to die or require repeat surgery five years after abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. The researchers highlighted the need for increased inclusion of women in aortic device creation and trial enrollment, given differences in aortic anatomy between men and women.
Researchers have made significant advancements in understanding the electronic structure of graphite, a crucial component in battery production. The study's findings highlight the importance of surface effects in bulk intrinsic electronic state measurements, revealing new insights into the material's electrical properties.
A recent study published in Frontiers found that older patients respond equally well to rTMS but with slower onset of effects compared to younger patients. The researchers suggest revising treatment protocols to consider longer courses for older adults, making this treatment more accessible.
A study found that non-coding 'junk' DNA can get in the way of genome replication, potentially allowing mutations to accumulate. The researchers believe repetitive patterns of DNA sequences could trigger a damage response signal indicating errors in DNA replication have occurred and require repair.
Astronomers have discovered a unique triple star system consisting of two binary stars and one massive tertiary star. The system is incredibly luminous due to its compact nature and was initially detected by amateur astronomers using NASA's TESS observatory data.
Researchers used AI and 3D Geometric Morphometrics to analyze tooth marks found at the Venta Micena site, revealing that a hyena species was the primary predator. The study's success rate exceeded 90%, providing new insights into ancient ecosystems.
Research reveals cytokine involvement in IgA nephropathy by increasing aberrantly O-glycosylated IgA1 production. The study provides insights into clinical trials using cytokines as therapeutic targets and future directions for treatment.
A new study uses machine learning models to predict cancer patients' responses to immunotherapy based on their gut microbiome features. The research identifies common gut bacterial taxa associated with responders versus non-responders, providing a potential tool for distinguishing and predicting immunotherapy responders.
Researchers at UC Santa Cruz discovered that a key genetic mutation in the KRAS gene alters RNA 'dark matter', leading to the release of previously unknown RNA biomarkers. These biomarkers could be detected in the blood through a liquid biopsy, offering a promising step in cancer early detection.
Researchers have discovered that resistivity can cause instabilities in plasma edge, making it more stable when included in models. The study aims to design systems for future fusion facilities with improved plasma stability.
A study by Columbia University found that diverse nurse workforces are associated with reduced risk of life-threatening complications during pregnancy, childbirth, and the post-partum period. Racial and ethnic minorities face higher risks, with Native American mothers having the highest incidence of severe adverse maternal outcomes.
Researchers found an autism-associated mutation in the Hevin protein results in its retention in the endoplasmic reticulum, activating the unfolded protein response in cells. This disrupts normal brain function, contributing to autism pathogenesis.
Researchers found that domesticated maize recruits different microbes from soil than its wild ancestors, including those involved in nitrogen cycling. This shift may be driving the need for synthetic fertilizers, but understanding the ancestral microbiome could help breed crops more sustainably.
A study published in EMBO Molecular Medicine found that higher levels of memory B cells are associated with a reduced risk of COVID-19 vaccine breakthrough infection. Memory B cells selectively act against specific targets, providing long-lasting immunity and potentially protecting against diverse variants of the virus.
Researchers at the University of Surrey used non-invasive skin swabs to collect sebum from hospitalised patients and found it to be surprisingly accurate in detecting Covid-19. The study compared results with blood and saliva samples, revealing that skin swab tests scored around 0.88, close to the accuracy of blood samples.
Researchers found that current reported rates of carbon capture are overestimated by 19-30%, with actual storage rates being significantly lower. This discrepancy affects the accuracy of climate change mitigation impact assessments and hinders efforts to tackle the crisis.
Studies in rats have found that T-cells produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) that contribute to preeclampsia complications. Researchers are exploring ways to dampen this response to reduce the risk of premature birth or worse outcomes for mother and child.
A new study investigates how birds experience neophobia, which could play a vital role in helping to save Critically Endangered species. The research gathered data on the behavior of captive Bali myna birds, revealing that juvenile birds may be more suitable for reintroduction than adults.
Research found a 5.8% increase in traffic crash injuries and a 4.1% increase in fatal crash rates after legalization. States with retail sales saw an initial jump in injury crash rate before it decreased.
A new clinical model predicts hospital mortality and major adverse kidney events in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury. The proposed model exhibits good performance for outcome prediction, enabling timely interventions to promote kidney recovery.
Researchers investigated COVID-19 booster completion among US veterans, identifying associations with demographic, clinical, and social determinants of health. The study aimed to pinpoint vulnerable subpopulations that may require targeted interventions to increase booster dose completion rates.
Researchers have discovered a 50-year-old tortoise on Fernandina Island, doubling the number of known members of Chelonoidis phantasticus. The genome comparison reveals similarities between the two animals, but also raises questions about their evolutionary relationship and conservation status.
A study published in eLife suggests that combining broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) based on viral genetics can help prevent viral escape and rebound in HIV treatment. The researchers identified a combination of three bNAbs, PG9, PGT151, and VRC01, which reduces the chance of viral rebound to less than 1%.
A recent Kaiser Permanente study suggests that fully vaccinated patients who have had COVID-19 may not be at an elevated risk of complications after surgery. The research analyzed records from over 228,000 surgeries and found no significant difference in postoperative complication rates between vaccinated and unvaccinated patients.
Researchers at Boyce Thompson Institute have created the first comprehensive annotation of long intergenic non-coding RNAs (lincRNAs) in four mustard species. The study identifies locations across all four genomes that encoded lincRNAs, proposed functions for them, and confirmed the function of some lincRNAs involved in germination. Th...
Researchers found wearable activity trackers encourage users to walk up to 40 minutes more each day, resulting in a significant weight loss of 1kg over five months. The study, which reviewed almost 400 studies involving 164,000 people, also found benefits for blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Gladstone researchers discovered that BET proteins play two distinct roles in interacting with SARS-CoV-2 infected human cells: giving the virus a window into cells while helping our cells defend themselves. Blocking certain BET proteins worsens disease symptoms, highlighting the need for targeted therapeutics.
Researchers used C. elegans to investigate inter-individual variation in metabolism and found genetic variants that affect metabolic differences between individuals. They discovered unique metabolites in different strains of the worm, which could help tailor biomedical recommendations to individual metabolism.
A comprehensive review of research on serotonin and depression found no link between the two, contradicting long-held theories. The study suggests that antidepressants' effectiveness may be due to managing stressful life events rather than correcting chemical imbalances.
A new study finds that large-scale HIV screening and peer support successfully reduced uncontrolled HIV in people who inject drugs by 40% in Haiphong, Vietnam. The intervention improved HIV identification and care among this at-risk population.
Research at the University of Reading found that high-dose Vitamin B6 supplementation reduced feelings of anxiety and depression in young adults. The study links Vitamin B6 to its calming effect on the brain, which may help alleviate mood disorders.
Researchers at University of California - San Diego launch nationwide clinical trial to investigate benfotiamine as a metabolic treatment approach for Alzheimer's disease. The trial aims to determine the effectiveness of high doses of benfotiamine in benefiting people with mild AD or mild cognitive impairment.
A study found that healthcare workers in non-COVID-19 wards during outbreaks transmitted new infections, highlighting gaps in infection control practices between different acute care wards. In contrast, those working in COVID-19 isolation wards had lower transmission rates.
A study by Yale ornithologist Richard Prum and colleagues found that hummingbirds exhibit the highest level of color diversity among all bird species, with an increase of 56% in known bird-visible plumage colors.
Researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology have developed a novel low-cost method for refining boron using ultrasonication, resulting in 95% pure MgB2 superconductors with improved magnetic properties. This breakthrough could make cheap superconductors a reality soon.
A FAU Harbor Branch study demonstrates hydrology impacts through high-resolution simulation model. Increased freshwater discharge contributes to intensified shelf water mixing that favors surface intrusion of Loop Current waters.
A study of 1,415 law enforcement officers and firefighters found that unvaccinated first responders are at a higher risk of developing COVID-19 and holding misconceptions about vaccine effectiveness. The findings highlight the need for increased vaccination efforts among this vulnerable group.
Tree ring growth in Alaska's La Perouse glacier reveals a slowdown of growth as the glacier advanced and an increase in growth rates as it retreated. The findings provide insights into how ecosystems may respond to rapid climate change.
Researchers from Sichuan University developed a new polymer aerogel with superelasticity that functions in a temperature range of -196-500°C, maintaining multifunctional protective performance. The scalable method uses bidirectionally oriented carbon/carbon aerogel composite multi-walled carbon nanotubes.
A new study published in Psychiatric Services finds that large-scale training in suicide prevention is possible, with healthcare professionals reporting improved understanding of suicide and how to respond. The training aims to educate and empower providers to identify at-risk behaviors and discuss limitations of lethal means.
Researchers found that arctic shrub growth is limited by seed dispersal and fire, not just environmental suitability. The study used high-resolution satellite imagery to estimate shrub expansion in the Arctic region, revealing a discrepancy with previous models.
Locations with high marine biodiversity are most vulnerable to oceanic warming, making them particularly susceptible to climate change. This is because species in these regions are ill-equipped to respond to large changes in temperature, requiring them to move at rates rarely seen for marine life.
A new study found that COVID-19 patients are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and diabetes in the months following infection. The risk of diabetes returns to baseline levels within 23 weeks, while cardiovascular disease risk decreases after 7 weeks.
A new study found that active interventions can lift conservation units of wild Pacific salmon to green status, which means they are healthy and able to sustain fisheries under Canada's Wild Salmon Policy. Implementing an integrated habitat strategy and improving policies for watershed management can shift up to 17 CUs to green status.
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have developed a new method to test malaria vaccines that mimics natural exposure, increasing efficiency and accuracy. The study found the vaccine to be effective in both controlled clinical settings and in the field, with promising results for future mass vaccination programs.
Researchers at OHSU developed an efficient and accurate assessment of placental health using standard MRI, detecting complications early in pregnancy. The method identifies T2* values that provide key information about oxygen availability and placental blood flow.