A new study published by UNC School of Medicine researchers found that fourth-generation vaping devices are associated with unique changes in markers of immune responses inside airways. The study compared the respiratory immune health effects of different types of devices, including third-generation and fourth-generation models.
Researchers developed an inhalable COVID-19 vaccine that targets the lungs specifically and effectively, allowing for self-administration via an inhaler. The vaccine prototype, RBD-Exo, elicited production of antibodies specific to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in rodent models, offering a promising solution to improve vaccine delivery.
Researchers successfully used Distributed Acoustic Sensing to passively listen to whales, detecting over 830 vocalizations and locating their positions with unprecedented spatial resolution. The technique allows for real-time monitoring of whale behavior, as well as detection of other ocean sounds like storms and earthquakes.
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have developed a hands-free system that uses shapeshifting microrobots to brush, floss and treat teeth. The microrobots use magnetic fields to conform to different shapes and release antimicrobials to kill oral bacteria.
A study using data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database found that married individuals had better survival prospects than divorced or widowed people. The researchers developed a nomogram to predict 3-5 year survivals, with marital status being one of several independent prognostic factors.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Investigative Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 5, 2022
A recent study published in PLOS Biology suggests that 'selfish chromosomes' may be the reason behind the high number of human embryo deaths. The research found that most fertilized eggs die early on due to chromosomal errors, and even those that survive may not reach term due to a process called centromeric drive. However, the study a...
A new method using ethyl glucuronide in hair and urine has improved the diagnosis of fatty liver disease, revealing a high rate of harmful alcohol consumption in patients with presumed non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The study found that about 30% of patients were at risk of alcohol-related liver damage.
A multicenter study found that traditional Chinese medicine Yupingfeng was as effective as allopathic drugs in treating recurrent respiratory tract infections in children. The study showed a substantially greater reduction in RRTI events and similar safety profiles across all three groups.
A new study provides a data-driven definition of a pond, distinguishing it from lakes and wetlands, based on surface area, depth, and emergent vegetation. The researchers found that ponds have distinct ecological structures and functions, requiring unique monitoring standards.
A new model developed by FSU researchers predicts the spread of vortices in superfluids, shedding light on a key aspect of turbulence in quantum fluids. The study also validates previous experimental results and provides evidence for the physical mechanism underlying vortex superdiffusion.
Researchers created a dataset quantifying trends of evaporative water loss from 1.4 million global lakes and artificial reservoirs, revealing a 15.4% increase in long-term lake evaporation volume. This finding highlights the importance of accurate information for water management decision-makers in addressing climate change impacts.
Researchers developed a simple and versatile nanoparticle ink made from tin oxide, which can be printed at relatively low temperatures using microwave technology. This ink enables the mass production of high-efficiency perovskite solar cells with power-conversion efficiencies of up to 18%.
A new nanoparticle-based vaccine has demonstrated broad immune responses in non-human primates against a spectrum of SARS-like betacoronaviruses. The vaccine targets the 'conserved' part of the viral spike, which does not change between variants or animal strains.
A UTSA professor will use a five-year $550,000 grant to study natural language processing and develop NLP models tailored to specific population groups. The goal is to improve the accuracy and relevance of these models in everyday applications.
A recent study reveals that the production of fish feed is the greatest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in China's aquaculture industry. The research found that provinces such as Guangdong, Hubei, Jiangsu, and Shandong have the highest GHG emissions, accounting for approximately 46% of all emissions.
A new study reveals that areas once 'redlined' in the 1930s continue to suffer from higher rates of cardiometabolic health risk factors, including obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Neighborhoods with lower grades on historical redlining maps had better access to healthcare and lower rates of disease.
A study by Ohio State University found that neighborhoods with high levels of trust and more dogs had lower rates of homicide, robbery, and aggravated assaults compared to areas with fewer dogs. The presence of dog walkers serves as a form of neighborhood surveillance, discouraging crime and deterring potential threats.
Researchers found that short-term smoking cessation programs in prison are ineffective, and that longer interventions with group counseling are needed. The study's results highlight the need for more attention to tobacco cessation in correctional settings.
Researchers found that hearing one's own voice is critical for sense of agency over speech, helping to understand auditory hallucinations and improve VR experiences. The study's findings suggest a close connection between recognizing one's own voice and feeling in control.
A recent study published in Brain Stimulation reveals that non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation increases reaction times to negative images and decreases reactions to positive images. The findings have implications for the development of treatments for PTSD and other mental health conditions.
A new study by Flinders University and Charles Darwin University found that efforts to meet employer demands for Australian qualifications result in marginal returns for skilled migrants. Many experienced skills mismatches, especially among IT professionals and those in business and marketing fields, leading to underemployment.
A study of tooth isotopes from Adelaide graves found one person likely born in Adelaide, eight from Britain and Ireland, with three potentially from either location. The results support the overwhelming British origin of colonists in South Australia before 1880.
Research from Washington University in St. Louis reveals that camelina, an ancient oilseed crop, may have been more important and widespread than previously thought, with origins in the Caucasus region near present-day Armenia. The study's findings support breeding programs to improve this crop for biofuels applications, highlighting i...
A NIH study found that antibodies produced in response to COVID-19 may mistakenly target cells crucial to the blood-brain barrier, leading to inflammation and damage. The study suggests an antibody-mediated attack that activates endothelial cells, causing clots to form and leakage to occur.
Researchers have discovered exceptionally rich assemblages of plant spine fossils in central Tibet, confirming an early diversification of spiny plants around 39 million years ago. The findings suggest that a drying and cooling climate may have driven the evolution of physical defense mechanisms against large herbivores.
A new study found that the O139 cholera variant lost antimicrobial resistance and changed toxin production, leading to its unexpected decline. The findings suggest continuous monitoring of genetic changes is key to preventing future outbreaks.
Researchers found altered cell-mediated immune function in ALS patients and a novel treatment approach using bone marrow transplants. The study suggests that abnormal CD8 T-cell response contributes to motor neuron degeneration.
A Japanese research team has developed a chopstick-shaped device that uses weak electrical charges to stimulate the tongue's saltiness. The study found that individuals following a low-sodium diet can reduce their salt intake by 30% through electric taste stimulation, enhancing the full flavor of salty foods.
A new study from Oregon Health & Science University finds almost six out of ten in-network providers listed under Oregon Medicaid provider directories are not actually available to see patients. This 'phantom' networks undermine access to care, leading to delays and interruptions in treatment.
A national clinical trial found that convalescent plasma therapy does not improve the ability to survive or recover for severely ill patients hospitalized with COVID-19. Despite receiving high-titer neutralizing antibodies, hospitalized patients did not benefit from the therapy.
A new study reveals that Arctic temperatures have jumped by two steps in the last 50 years, with the second step occurring in 1999 and missed by most climate models. The findings are significant for projecting future climate change, as they highlight the need for more accurate short-term climate projections.
A study of 627 participants in the Southwest US found that the summer 2020 COVID-19 case surge was associated with a short-term decrease in pregnancy desires. The trend reversal was more pronounced among individuals earlier in their reproductive lives.
Researchers found a higher prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in boys than girls, with 410 out of 12,554 children and adolescents reporting an ASD diagnosis. The overall prevalence was estimated at 3.14% for the US population between 2019 and 2020.
A new study suggests that developing culturally-sensitive interventions for Latino college students can help prevent problem drinking. The research found that ethnic pride was associated with significantly less drinking and alcohol-related consequences, while ethnic shame was linked to a higher likelihood of problem drinking. Familismo...
Researchers identified peak emergence times for 15 problematic weed species in the Northeast, revealing that waiting till after June 1 can avoid common ragweed. Flexible crop rotations and weather-based predictions can help farmers plan ahead and control weeds more effectively.
A new molecule, inosine, has been identified as a key booster of fat burning through activation of brown fat cells. Studies have shown that inosine can increase energy consumption and protect against diabetes in mice fed high-energy diets.
Researchers argue that neurons proactively trigger influx of needed substances to survive, creating a systemwide group of metabolically cooperating cells. This principle is central to learning, driving human behavior. The study aims to explore tumour cell responses to individual behaviors and develop new cancer treatments.
Research reveals Lect2 protein enhances type I IFN and IFN-stimulated genes expression, suppressing viral replication. Lect2 binds to MET receptor, inhibiting SHP2 activity and promoting RIG-I degradation.
Researchers have linked a specific domain of proteins to a cancer trigger in humans, opening up new avenues for selective drug therapies. The discovery was made by identifying four core amino acids called cysteine residues critical to the PAN domain's function.
The study found that COVID-19 accounted for 1 in 8 deaths, with heart disease, cancer, accidents, and stroke being the other common causes. The data also revealed a significant increase in mortality rates due to the pandemic.
Indiana University researchers are using a mouse model to study the effects of cannabis use during adolescence, which could impair working memory and increase the risk of psychosis later in life. The $2M NIH grant aims to develop therapies to treat adverse effects.
Researchers developed a laser-based diamond sensor that can measure magnetic fields up to 10 times more precisely than standard techniques. This innovation could help improve on existing magnetic-field sensing techniques for mapping brain activity to identify disorders.
A study published in Cell Reports found that a rhythmic small intestinal microbiome prevents obesity and type 2 diabetes in mice. The researchers used mouse models to explore how diet and feeding patterns affect the gut microbiome and its impact on host health, particularly with obesity and type 2 diabetes.
A study in Health Affairs estimated the independent effects of seven nonpharmaceutical interventions on COVID-19 cases and deaths in Brazilian states. The results found that full restrictions on public events and full masking mandates significantly reduced disease spread, with combined effects being particularly effective.
A case report highlights the dangers of excessive vitamin D intake, with symptoms including abdominal pain, leg cramps, and kidney abnormalities. Doctors warn that hypervitaminosis D is on the rise and can lead to serious health problems if not taken safely.
A randomized evaluation of Nurse-Family Partnership found that low-income mothers in South Carolina experienced adverse birth events at a rate of 26.9 percent, similar to the control group. The study evaluated various outcomes, but more evidence is needed on effective interventions to address racial and structural inequities.
A new nanoparticle vaccine has shown promising results in protecting against a spectrum of COVID-19-causing variants and related viruses. The vaccine induces the production of cross-reactive antibodies that recognize virtually every SARS-like betacoronavirus strain, providing broad-spectrum protection against future pandemics.
A new study reveals that 41% of Vietnam's amphibian species are threatened with extinction, with many having limited distribution ranges and no conservation data available. The researchers highlight the importance of implementing targeted conservation efforts, including ex-situ programs and protected areas, to address these gaps.
Researchers discover that neurons directly contribute to Krabbe disease destruction through enzyme galactosylceramidase. This finding presents a new approach to developing therapies for the rare neurodegenerative disorder.
Researchers created an atomic-level computational model of the COVID-19 spike protein, finding that human cell modifications increase its flexibility and mobility. The study suggests that these modifications can enhance virus infectivity and immune avoidance.
A recent study published in International Journal of Molecular Sciences reports the successful testing of Pep19, a synthetic peptide with anti-obesity action. The molecule was found to mitigate weight gain while reducing insulin resistance and liver fattiness in mice fed a high-fat diet.
A study by Columbia University researchers found that new omicron subvariants BA.4 and BA.5 are better at evading vaccines and antibody treatments than previous variants, causing more breakthrough infections in vaccinated individuals. Only one available monoclonal antibody treatment remained highly effective against these subvariants.
Research reveals that brain responses to stories change dramatically between childhood and adulthood, with different brain regions activated in each age group. Children as young as seven show similar patterns of brain activity to adults when watching a story, but their brains are less synchronized and more focused on sensory details.
A new study found that men at heightened genetic risk of prostate cancer who adopt healthy lifestyles may see a significant reduction in lethal disease risk. Maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical exercise, and not smoking were key factors associated with a reduced risk.
A new study published in Applied Economics challenges the long-held 80-20 rule in F1, finding that car and team input accounts for 20% of success, while driver skill accounts for 15%. The interaction between driver and team is found to be the biggest factor, accounting for 30-40% of success.
Researchers have identified 42 genes related to 15 different cellular mechanisms that affect the risk of different types of somatic mutations. This comprehensive study may help explain cancer predisposition and potentially personalize prevention programs and cancer treatments.
Dr. John B. Diamond will present the 2022 Brown Lecture in Education Research, focusing on the relationship between social inequality and educational opportunity. The lecture aims to address equity and equality in education by identifying and removing systematic barriers.
A new study published in Environmental Research Letters estimates that thousands of heat-related child deaths could be prevented if temperature increases are limited to the Paris Agreement's 1.5ºC target through to 2050. Under a high emission scenario, heat-related child mortality is projected to double by 2049 compared to 2005-2014.
Researchers have identified a series of complex organic molecules at comet Chury, including fragrant molecules like naphthalene and benzoic acid. The findings suggest that comets may have played a role in the emergence of carbon-based life on Earth.
A preliminary study published in eLife suggests that sperm screening can identify potentially harmful new genetic mutations and help prevent them from being passed on to offspring. The study found that 55 mutations were detected in the men's sperm, including 15 passed on to an embryo.
A recent study by Staffordshire University highlights the potential for telehealth consultations to widen disparities in healthcare access. Despite the benefits of reduced costs and increased flexibility, service managers and clinicians reported limited technological skills and patient technology as major barriers to telehealth adoptio...
A new analysis suggests that the COVID-19 vaccine generates antibodies targeting unique and conserved regions of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. The immune system's history with other coronaviruses shapes the patient's response, and the antibody response to common cold coronaviruses appears to follow different paths than to SARS-CoV-2.
Researchers at Boise State University developed a new water purification system that uses Ti3C2Tx MXene to remove ammonia from simulated wastewater. The system achieves a 100 times improvement in deionization capacity compared to activated carbon-based electrode systems, reducing energy consumption and pollutant ions.
Regularly active adults showed lower all-cause and cause-specific mortality rates compared to physically inactive peers. Weekend warriors who performed recommended levels of weekly physical activity one to two times also had similar mortality rates as regularly active participants.
Eating one avocado a day for six months improved overall diet quality by eight points and slightly decreased LDL cholesterol levels. However, avocados had no effect on belly fat or weight gain in participants with overweight or obesity.
Researchers found that Northern pike in the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea have genetically distinct populations, suggesting they remember their birthplace and return to reproduce. This study highlights the importance of protecting spawning grounds for sustainable fishing practices.
A new study challenges conservation paradigms, suggesting re-introduced wolves and predators do not significantly impact deer populations or livestock, nor restore degraded ecosystems. Instead, they coexist with humans and other species in a delicate balance.
Researchers from PSI, EPFL, and the University of Geneva developed a new method to distinguish between mirror-image molecules using helical dichroism. This approach provides stronger signals compared to circular dichroism (CD), which is widely used but has weak signals suitable only for gas-phase samples.
A new study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that taking Vitamin D supplements during pregnancy can substantially reduce the chances of babies developing atopic eczema. Babies who were breastfed for more than a month showed a lower risk of eczema, suggesting that supplementation may have long-lasting benefits.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have challenged the common belief that nerves are necessary for limb regeneration in mammals. Their studies, published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research and Developmental Biology, found that mechanical loading is a critical component for mammalian regeneration.
A new study published in Nature Food finds that ploughing and tilling soil on slopes is causing farm soils to thin, threatening future crop yields. The researchers predict significant declines in wheat and maize yields over the next 50 years if farmers continue to till hill slopes.
A large, all-season ozone hole has been detected over tropical regions, with an area seven times greater than the Antarctic ozone hole. The discovery highlights the need for further research on ozone depletion and its impact on human health and ecosystems.
A team of researchers has discovered 1.2-billion-year-old groundwater containing radiogenic helium, neon, and xenon, which could sustain subsurface microbial communities. The study reveals how energy stored in the Earth's subsurface can be released and distributed through its crust.
A survey of rural women in the US found that those using illicit drugs have low contraceptive use rates and high unintended pregnancy rates compared to non-drug users. The study highlights the need for expanded access to reproductive health care and substance use treatment in rural areas.
A pooled data analysis of available research found that ADHD drugs may successfully treat key aspects of Alzheimer's disease. Noradrenergic drugs, which target the neurotransmitter noradrenaline, showed a small but significant positive effect on overall cognition and a large positive effect on apathy in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Neurology Neurosurgery & Psychiatry·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 5, 2022
Researchers found that HIV prefers to infect memory CD4 T cells with large amounts of specific sugars, including fucose and sialic acid. The study also reveals that HIV boosts the production of these sugars in infected cells, highlighting a new target for potential treatments.
The study highlights the risks of natural gas infrastructure expansion, including underestimated methane emissions and economic climate risks. The researchers propose five measures to avoid these risks, including a timely and consistent natural gas exit.
Direct air carbon capture and sequestration technologies aim to remove CO2 from the atmosphere by 2050. A global research effort assesses the environmental trade-offs of two promising DAC technologies, considering their energy intensity and potential system feedbacks.
A team of researchers at Osaka University measured the photovoltaic properties of antimony sulfiodide:sulfide devices and discovered a novel effect. They found that changing the color of incident light from visible to ultraviolet induced a reversible change in output voltage, while leaving current unchanged.
CU Cancer Center member Ryan Layer developed a method to scan thousands of DNA samples using big data, identifying common benign mutations. This approach helps reduce false negatives in detecting complex DNA mutations associated with cancers.
A new study from the University of Georgia suggests that age and risk perception have a significant impact on COVID-19 vaccine acceptance, surpassing political ideology. Older adults (50+) are more likely to consider themselves at risk for severe illness and are universally vaccinated, particularly above 75 years old.
A review suggests that women timing their intercourse with urine-based hormone tests can increase their chances of conceiving. The study found that timed intercourse resulted in a 20-28% chance of pregnancy, compared to 18% for spontaneous intercourse.
A study found that South Asian communities in the GTA suffered disproportionately from COVID-19, with a higher seropositivity rate due to sociodemographic factors. The region's South Asian community was identified as a hotspot before local vaccine rollout, highlighting inequities in healthcare access.
Researchers at University of Cologne and Masaryk University discovered a star, S4716, orbiting Sagittarius A* in just four years and reaching speeds of 8000 kilometers per second. The study sheds new light on the origin and evolution of fast-moving stars near black holes.
A new study published in Blood Advances highlights significant inequities in diagnosis, treatment, and care between Black and white patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Young adult Black patients were five times more likely to die within 30 days of beginning treatment compared to comparable white patients. The study also found c...
Despite advances in biology and medicinal chemistry, research on schistosomiasis and other parasitic worm diseases remains at an early stage. Novel molecular targets and parasite signaling pathways may contribute to the development of new treatments.
A recent study of over 5,000 women found that having a baby after breast cancer diagnosis does not negatively impact survival rates. Women who had hormone-receptor positive breast cancer and became mothers showed similar or increased survival compared to those without children.
A physics professor at the University of Texas at Arlington will lead an instrument on NASA's GDC mission to measure electron density and temperature in the ionosphere. The goal is to understand space weather and its effects on human activity, including disruptions to satellite operations and communication signals.
Researchers recreated ancient ammonite movement using robotic models, exploring trade-offs between stability and maneuverability. The study found that different shell shapes offered varying advantages and consequences, with no single perfect design.
A study of teenage childbirth in Cote d'Ivoire found higher risks of complications for both mother and child. Adolescent girls were more likely to develop high blood pressure, contract infections, and undergo cesarean sections.
A water birth significantly reduces the use of epidurals, injected opioids, episiotomy, pain, and heavy bleeding after birth, while increasing mothers' satisfaction levels and the odds of an intact perineum. A water immersion also increases the likelihood of an intact perineum and reduces episodes of umbilical cord breakage.
A new £25m fund will bring together UK researchers, universities, and businesses to use design to address the climate crisis. The programme will focus on innovative design solutions to shift dependence on fossil fuels and support the British Government's commitment to decarbonise the economy.
The July issues of The American Journal of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Services feature new neuroscientific advances addressing major depression, anhedonia, and cognitive deficits. Research reports highlight the provision of care among underserved populations, including Hispanic communities with declining mental health services.
New research by Professor Susan Harkness reveals that motherhood earning penalties have a significant impact on the economic wellbeing of single mothers. The study found that labour market penalties, cost of partner absence and child-related increases in financial needs combine to negatively affect single mothers' income.