African countries face a growing cancer burden, with an estimated 2.1 million new cases and 1.4 million related deaths expected by 2040. Insufficient healthcare resources and infrastructure will likely overwhelm capacity levels, delaying screenings and limiting treatment options if action is not taken.
A collaborative initiative aims to establish common protocols for assessing and comparing diffuse optics systems used in medical diagnosis. The study presents the results of a multi-laboratory comparison of 12 institutions and 28 systems, proposing simple numeric values for easy comparison across instruments.
A pilot study found that drinking either alcoholic or non-alcoholic lager daily increased the diversity of gut microbes in healthy men, potentially reducing chronic disease risk. The researchers suggest that non-alcoholic beer may be a healthier choice due to its lower alcohol content.
Researchers compared the accuracy of rapid antigen tests with RT-PCR in detecting SARS-CoV-2 infection among college athletes during the Omicron variant. Rapid antigen tests showed high sensitivity but lower specificity, while RT-PCR demonstrated higher specificity and sensitivity.
Two fossil skulls of a 12- to 15-million-year-old hyena from China suggest the animal was on its way to becoming an insectivore, like the modern aardwolf. The fossils show characteristics intermediate between those of bone-cracking hyenas and termite-eating aardwolves.
Scientists at the University of Oxford have created a new type of computing processor that uses light to process information, achieving speeds faster than traditional electronics. By leveraging multiple polarisation channels, the researchers increased computing density by several orders of magnitude, paving the way for more efficient p...
Adult flu vaccination rates declined in states with low COVID-19 vaccination rates, indicating a potential link between the two. The study found that factors causing low COVID-19 vaccination behaviors also led to declines in flu vaccination rates.
A new study suggests that losing a grandmother may have a significant impact on adolescent boys, leading to a 50% increase in depressive symptoms. The researchers also found that the loss of a grandparent can be a risk factor for teen depression and other negative outcomes.
A new University of California, Davis study found that implementing an educational philosophy called a mindset intervention raised grades among underachieving students. The study, which included nearly 2,000 ethnically diverse sixth and seventh grade students, showed that early intervention with teachers and training on malleable intel...
A study found that COVID-19 leads to progressive cholestasis, cholestatic liver failure, and secondary sclerosing cholangitis in 15% of patients with pre-existing liver disease. These patients often require intensive care and may experience irreversible bile duct damage.
A new study published in Blood Advances reveals significant disparities in end-of-life care for individuals with hematologic malignancies living in rural areas versus metropolitan regions. Rural residents are less likely to receive hospice care, instead often dying in nursing facilities or at home without palliative care.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted patient accruals in oncology clinical trials, with a 46% decline early on. However, the recovery has been progressive, with newly activated clinical trials increasing by 467 from 2019 to June 2021.
Asteroid Psyche's varied surface suggests a dynamic history, with metallic eruptions, asteroid-shaking impacts, and a lost rocky mantle. The new maps hint at the asteroid's ancient core, which could be composed of silicate-rich material that has since disappeared.
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba found that Synapsology, a game-like dual-task exercise, helps maintain or improve cognitive and physical abilities in older adults aged 85-97. The study, published in Alzheimer's & Dementia, suggests that this cost-effective intervention can have a societal impact.
A new review paper has proposed a framework for advancing the application of xenotransplantation, a potential solution to the organ shortage. The study discusses innovations and advances in transplanting animal hearts into human subjects, with a focus on overcoming challenges and barriers.
A new irrigation decision support system enables growers to practice more efficient irrigation by analyzing climate predictions, humidity sensors, and irrigation meters. This system allows for optimal watering schedules and reduces water consumption by up to 20% through controlled deficit irrigation strategies.
Scientists have identified 21 common DNA faults that occur in cancer, which can guide doctors to targeted treatments. The AI algorithm, inspired by Netflix's content recommendation system, categorizes genomic data to predict cancer behavior and outcomes.
A new study from Keck School of Medicine of USC suggests that willingness to give away money may be linked to the earliest stages of Alzheimer's disease. Participants who gave more money scored significantly lower on cognitive tests known to be sensitive to Alzheimer's disease.
A study found that older men, especially dog owners, coped better during the COVID-19 pandemic than those who experienced the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Pet companionship reduced feelings of loneliness and provided a sense of purpose.
A team of researchers from the University of Cologne identified a possible key enzyme that enables algae-eating protists to dissolve algal cell walls. The study, published in Current Biology, reveals new insights into the molecular toolkit used by these organisms to interact with their prey.
Researchers have developed a test that measures blood levels of ceramides, a waxy substance similar to cholesterol, to predict diabetes remission in gastric bypass surgery patients. The study found that individuals with low ceramide levels prior to surgery had a higher likelihood of achieving diabetes remission two years later.
A new study found a close link between ageism and poor physical and mental health in older adults. Those with more health concerns experienced higher rates of everyday ageism, including internalized and interpersonal forms.
A study analyzing fecal samples from COVID-19 patients found that those with healthy gut microbiota had higher diversity and SCFAs, reducing chronic symptoms. Probiotics and supplements may alleviate symptoms and promote prognosis in these patients.
Researchers have developed a framework to analyze chromosomal instability in human cancers, characterizing 17 different types of signatures. These signatures can predict how tumors respond to drugs and help identify future drug targets. The discovery aims to improve survival rates for millions of cancer patients worldwide.
A new study published in Science Translational Medicine reveals that consecutive molecular modifications of the androgen receptor can contribute to drug resistance in prostate cancer. Researchers identified a potential treatment approach using an ACK1 inhibitor to block this resistance.
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture's REM Lab uses eye-tracking technology to study consumer preferences, product evaluations, and behavior. The lab aims to develop new solutions in multiple agricultural industries, with potential applications in marketing design and product displays.
Seagrass meadows are a crucial fishing ground for millions of households in the Indo-Pacific region, providing reliable access to fish and other animals. Research reveals that households with lower income rely more heavily on seagrass due to its proximity and accessibility.
The US Preventive Task Force's revised guidelines have increased the proportion of African Americans screened for lung cancer, a move expected to lead to more lives saved. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, analyzed data from over 800 patients and found that those eligible under the new criteria had a significantly higher rate ...
Researchers found higher AR signaling and better response rates for female patients treated with BRAF/MEK inhibitors. Blocking the AR improved response to BRAF/MEK targeted therapy in both males and females.
A state health department's swift action halted a nursing-home outbreak of drug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii. Improved hand hygiene, enhanced environmental cleaning protocols, and colonization screening helped contain the spread of the organism, with no additional cases detected after implementation of infection control recommenda...
A study from Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center found that early antibiotic use disrupts the developing immune system of newborns, increasing risks of severe pneumonia and life-long health issues. Fecal transplants may offer a solution to mitigate these effects.
Researchers develop new method to synthesize two-dimensional monolayer polymeric fullerene, a unique member of the carbon material family. The material exhibits interesting properties, including anisotropic behavior and moderate bandgap, making it a potential candidate for electronic devices.
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder and NIST have successfully demonstrated reading out signals from superconducting qubits using laser light, preserving the qubit's information. This breakthrough could enable the creation of a quantum internet, allowing for secure communication over long distances.
Homa Alemzadeh's research aims to develop safety monitoring tools for robotic surgery, enabling better training for surgeons and increasing the availability of less-invasive procedures. Her work has the potential to improve patient outcomes in underserved rural communities.
A new technique has identified previously hidden protoclusters that could reveal new details about galaxy evolution. The ancestors of large galaxy clusters were found to be hiding in plain sight, with some protoclusters harboring unseen galaxies that evolved differently.
Menopause is often perceived as a hormone deficiency, but experts argue this can lead to negative expectations. Instead, a more nuanced approach emphasizes the positive aspects of menopause, such as freedom from menstruation and reduced symptoms. Normalizing ageing and celebrating women's strengths can also improve experiences.
Heidelberg University researchers have identified a key protein HYPK that regulates N-terminal acetylation, prolonging plant protein life and enhancing drought resistance. This mechanism appears to be ancient, retained across various organisms.
Researchers found that states implementing Medicaid expansion saw a slower increase in suicide rates compared to those that didn't expand access. The study estimated that 1,818 suicides were averted between 2014 and 2018, with improved mental health care playing a crucial role.
Indiana University researchers have discovered the world's brightest-known fluorescent solid materials, called SMILES, which can transform liquid materials into stable crystalline solids with unprecedented brightness. The grant will help advance research on SMILES to improve existing technologies and create new ones.
Researchers have identified two broadly neutralizing antibodies that can effectively neutralize all SARS-CoV-2 variants, including Omicron BA.1 and BA.2 subtypes. The antibodies, Cv2.1169 and Cv2.3194, were found to be fully active against Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Delta variants.
Researchers draw inspiration from insect intelligence to create more efficient and robust AI for small autonomous robots. Advances in biology and technology enable fine-grained investigations of insect brains, leading to faster energy efficiency and speed in sensing and neural processing.
A pan-Canadian study found that prescribing buprenorphine-naloxone at home is as effective as traditional methadone treatment in reducing opioid use. The flexible model of care offers improved access and autonomy for individuals with opioid use disorder. With over 270 participants, the OPTIMA study suggests a new approach to treating t...
A Cornell University research team used AI to detect eelgrass wasting disease at nearly three dozen sites along the West Coast. The study found that warmer-than-normal water temperatures are associated with eelgrass wasting, regardless of region. Eelgrass is a vital coastal species for fish habitat and biodiversity.
Researchers identified a molecule called Lac-Phe that suppresses food intake by 50% in diet-induced obese mice. Lac-Phe also improves glucose tolerance and reduces body weight, paving the way for potential exercise pills to treat obesity and related conditions.
A study by Queen Mary University of London found that 26% of patients with asthma are overusing rescue inhalers, which can lead to poor asthma control and increased risk of severe attacks. By reducing SABA overprescribing, hospitals can see a 70% decrease in asthma-related hospital admissions.
Researchers studied miniature frogs from the genus Brachycephalus and found that their small vestibular system prevents them from maintaining balance. The tiny frogs can jump but struggle to control their trajectory mid-leap.
A study found that a methionine-deficient diet alters gene expression and DNA methylation in liver cells, increasing the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. A methionine-supplemented diet had the opposite effect, reducing the risk of liver damage.
A study of 105,000 participants from 21 countries found high amounts of sitting time were associated with increased risk of all-cause death and cardiovascular disease. This association was particularly strong in low-income and lower-middle-income countries.
A large clinical trial found that treating high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) reduces the risk of anal cancer in people with HIV. The study showed a 57% reduction in anal cancer cases after treatment, highlighting the importance of screening and treatment for HSIL in this population.
A new study led by UCSF found that routine screening for and removal of precancerous anal lesions can significantly reduce the risk of anal cancer. The study, known as ANCHOR Study, showed a 57% reduction in anal cancer among people with HIV who underwent treatment for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL).
Researchers have developed a unique 3D printed system to harvest mesenchymal stem cells from bioreactors, which can be used for various treatments. The system combines microfluidics and 3D printing to process adult stem cells, potentially making stem cell therapies more widely available.
A new standardized method for measuring calcium carbonate on ocean floors can help researchers compare coral reef health globally. The 'how-to' guide enables the collection of comparable data from coral and oyster reefs worldwide, providing insights into the impacts of climate change and human activities.
Patients with diabetes who participate in a free Annual Wellness Visit are 36% less likely to need an amputation, according to a new study from the University of Virginia School of Medicine. This preventive care service helps detect foot complications earlier, reducing the risk of amputations.
Ancient DNA analysis reveals that an epidemic devastated a local community in Kyrgyzstan in 1338 and 1339, linked to the Black Death. The study suggests that the Black Death's ancestor originated in Central Asia, close to Lake Issyk Kul.
A team of researchers from SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory developed a mathematical technique using machine learning concepts to model a magnet's previous states. This approach eliminates the need to reset magnets and results in immediate improvements in accelerator performance.
A new analysis suggests that BP's reputation declined after the 2010 Deepwater Horizon accident, but its long-term stock market returns were not significantly affected. The study found no decline in the reputations or stock prices of other oil firms.
An analysis from Rutgers researchers highlights that different vaccine allocation strategies may be more effective in minimizing COVID-19 deaths in low-income countries. The experts suggest considering factors such as socioeconomic realities, cultural values, and life expectancy when making decisions.
Researchers found that nanocontacts remain solid despite vibrations, due to reversible rheological steady state. This phenomenon, previously thought to be a liquid, is actually caused by the movement of internal micro-surfaces.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve and University of Washington develop AI-3D collaboration to gain insights into highly aggressive prostate cancer. The collaboration aims to provide a new view and understanding of prostate cancer cells using light sheet microscopy.
A new technique, SA-MDP, has been developed to solve the sensitive association rule problem in data mining. It uses a customized particle swarm optimization algorithm to balance data utility and privacy, and introduces particle splitting and preprocessing mechanisms to improve exploration and speed.