A new study found that fungal infections result in significant healthcare spending, with direct costs of $6.7 billion and secondary infections contributing to a total of $37.7 billion in U.S. national health care expenses. Fungal infections doubled hospital costs, patient stays, and mortality risk.
Researchers tested the magnetic field output of various portable electronic devices and found that strong magnets can disrupt the operation of implanted pacemakers or ICDs. The recommended safety distance varies between 0.8 cm for some devices, highlighting the need for awareness among cardiac patients.
Research simulations show cloth masks filter out only 10% of airborne particles, making them ineffective against airborne viral transmission. The study recommends using N95s or FFP2s for mask protection instead.
Researchers at New York University found that paper airplanes can achieve stable gliding when the center of mass is in a specific location, unlike conventional airplanes. The study's findings enhance our understanding of flight stability and provide insights into designing small-scale flying machines.
Researchers have developed wearable sensors that collect data for clinicians while limiting patient discomfort. The sensors use flexible electronics to monitor patients' physical motions and chemical signals in their sweat, skin, and more to help diagnose or inform treatment plans.
Women who enter menopause before age 40 are more likely to develop dementia later in life compared to those who begin menopause at 50-51 years. Lowered estrogen levels may contribute to this increased risk, with strategies such as exercise and healthy lifestyle habits potentially reducing the risk of dementia.
Scientists in Saudi Arabia developed a solar-driven system that uses hydrogel to condense water from air while generating electricity. The system successfully grew spinach in a hot climate, producing over 2 liters of water and 1,519 watt-hours of electricity.
Researchers developed a mathematical model to predict how antibodies generated by COVID-19 vaccines confer protection against symptomatic infections. The study found that vaccine efficacy is linked to the level of neutralization titre and could enable testing of future vaccines before clinical trials.
A recent study of wild Japanese macaques has found atypical tooth wear patterns that challenge our understanding of human evolution. The research suggests that the 'toothpick' grooves and large uniform scratches observed in fossil humans may have been caused by eating shellfish and accidentally chewing grit and sand, rather than tool use.
A study by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that a domestic cat was infected with the SARS-CoV-2 delta variant, but without significant genetic changes. This discovery highlights the virus's ability to infect a wide range of hosts and raises questions about its evolution in different species.
A new study found that e-cigarette vapers and hookah smokers are more likely to exhale particles through their nose compared to cigarette smokers. This unique breathing pattern may expose the nose and sinuses to higher levels of emissions, increasing the risk of upper respiratory diseases.
Researchers propose various approaches using AI, deep learning, and machine learning to improve the accuracy and predictive power of biomarkers for cancer and other diseases. The tools have shown promising applications in identifying early-stage cancers, inferring the site of specific cancers, and predicting response to immunotherapy.
A study led by the University of Texas at Austin found that groundwater levels in Sub-Saharan Africa frequently increased over time, with most aquifers replenishing their water supply during rainy periods. The research tracked long-term water storage gains and losses across Africa's major aquifers using NASA's GRACE satellites.
A study by Barcelona Institute for Global Health found that exposure to vegetation is associated with lower levels of oxidative stress in children. The association was observed regardless of the children's physical activity levels, suggesting that green spaces may have a direct impact on biological processes.
A new study published in Neurology: Neuroimmunology & Neuroinflammation suggests that some patients with long-COVID experience long-lasting nerve damage due to infection-triggered immune dysfunction. The study found peripheral neuropathy in 59% of patients, with symptoms including weakness, sensory changes, and pain.
Researchers at Tohoku University discovered that visual processing is facilitated by spaces near the hand, revealing a process independent of top-down attention. The study found differences in hand proximity attention between left-handers and right-handers, suggesting a possible link to handedness variation.
A group of doctors and academics call for NHS institutions to train staff on intervening in poor behavior and supporting victims. The authors highlight the need for active bystander programs and the five Ds approach to empower healthcare workers.
A team of researchers has made a breakthrough in understanding how the brain processes visual information by studying populations of neurons across multiple brain areas. The study reveals that feedforward and feedback signaling involve different neural activity patterns, shedding new light on how the brain communicates with itself.
Researchers have discovered a new mechanism that causes relapse in multiple myeloma by upregulating the protein CDK6, which controls cell division. Using proteomics and mass spectrometry technology, they found that adding a CDK6 inhibitor to treatment can reverse drug resistance and improve survival odds.
Researchers are conducting a five-year clinical trial to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of inebilizumab, an intravenous drug that neutralizes B-cells, in treating NMDA receptor encephalitis. The study aims to identify biomarkers that can predict patient recovery and improve quality of life.
Mutations in SARS-CoV-2's spike protein can resist neutralizing antibodies and therapeutics, highlighting the need for improved vaccines and treatments. The study mapped out these 'escape variants' to understand their molecular mechanisms.
A new study suggests that digital financial services, intended to reduce inequality, may actually amplify economic disparities among women in developing countries. The study found that physical infrastructure, mobile phone network quality, education, and wealth all play a significant role in determining access to digital finance.
Researchers found that hundreds of bacteria genes were integrated into ancient plants, granting them desirable traits for land colonization. The study suggests horizontal gene transfer played a significant role in land-plant evolution, allowing plants to adapt rapidly to new environments.
Researchers developed a machine learning model that provides good predictions for human speech recognition in noisy environments, benefiting hearing-impaired listeners. The model outperformed expectations and showed strong correlations with measured data.
Researchers from the Mitochondrial Medicine Frontier Program at CHOP found that primary developmental delays are a common symptom of Leigh syndrome, occurring even before metabolic stroke and regression. These delays are associated with poor long-term educational outcomes and worse disease progression.
A new form of drug delivery microparticle mimics the properties of a red blood cell, enabling controlled release of drugs and targeting specific destinations. The goal is to bypass the body's filtration systems, allowing for improved efficacy and reduced negative side effects.
A new clinical trial demonstrates that a mindfulness-based therapy, Mindfulness-Oriented Recovery Enhancement (MORE), decreases opioid use and misuse while reducing chronic pain symptoms. MORE significantly improves chronic pain symptoms, decreases opioid craving, and reduces symptoms of depression.
Researchers have discovered that bioprosthetic heart valve patients develop an immune response against foreign sugars in the valves, leading to calcification and deterioration. By genetically engineering these sugars out of the valves, durability can be increased, offering a potential solution for patients.
A new study by University of Bonn researchers found that cow's milk protein casein triggers an autoimmune response in mice, damaging neurons and myelin sheath. This cross-reactivity can occur when the immune system mistakes similar molecules for each other.
Researchers at University of Illinois develop new method to accurately estimate soil organic carbon using airborne and satellite hyperspectral sensing. The study leverages machine learning algorithms with a comprehensive soil spectral library, enabling large-scale monitoring of surface soil organic carbon.
For the first time, astronomers believe they've spotted an afterglow from a kilonova, a phenomenon resulting from the merger of two neutron stars. The discovery was made using NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory and has sparked debate over whether it's a kilonova or black hole-related X-rays.
The Precision ALS programme aims to provide new insights into Motor Neuron Disease through advanced data-driven prediction models and next-generation data analysis. The project will harness AI to analyse large amounts of data from a multimodal dataset, providing tools for clinical trials based on precision-medicine.
A fresh analysis suggests that the global cooling effect of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano eruption will be smaller than expected. However, the researchers warn that a one-time-only event may not be sufficient to overwhelm the longer-term global warming tendency.
A recent study analyzed samples from eight research stations across the Arctic, revealing that organic aerosols come mainly from human activity in winter but from natural sources in summer. The researchers also mapped black carbon concentrations and origins in each region, providing insights for targeted pollution reduction measures.
Researchers at UCLA have created highly flexible yet mechanically robust bioelectronic membranes using van der Waals thin film technology. The membranes can be stretched and flexed over irregular geometries, making them ideal for wearable health-monitoring devices and diagnostic sensors.
A CABI-led review found opportunities for increased policy coordination to achieve win-win results for both climate adaptation and Invasive Species Management (ISM) in the four countries. The study identifies sub-national planning and governance systems as an optimal area for integration of policy and practice.
Scientists have discovered a Noble False Widow spider capturing and entangling two protected Pipistrelle bats in the UK. The discovery demonstrates the species' invasive impact on native species, with the spiders' venom capable of causing neuromuscular paralysis.
A new study finds that nearly one in six older Americans undergo repeat hernia surgery, highlighting the need for more effective treatment options. The research suggests that minimally invasive procedures may be associated with a higher risk of subsequent operations.
A new study by the Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology has found that one third of children with a Wilms' tumor, the most common form of childhood kidney cancer, have a hereditary predisposition. This discovery has led to the implementation of extensive genetic testing for all children with this disease in the Netherlands.
Scientists have designed logic operations using liquid crystals, enabling potential applications in robotics and sensing. The technique uses topological defects to carry information, offering a new approach to computing.
Mblue Labs releases a coral-safe, broad-spectrum sunscreen containing Methylene Blue, which repairs photo-aging and delays skin aging. The product replaces Oxybenzone, a chemical UV blocker linked to coral reef destruction, providing safer protection for consumers and the environment.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have identified a key factor in T-cell leukemia disease relapse - genome refolding. The study found that cancer cells adapt to targeted therapy by changing the folding of their genome, driven by transcription factor repositioning.
Researchers found that ant colonies use an algorithm similar to the internet's data optimization, which senses and stabilizes behavior. This principle is also used in cells and neurons. Nature's algorithms may inspire new cybersecurity strategies or alternative approaches to gene regulation.
Researchers found a human receptor protein detecting amino acids in the same way as bacteria, leading to potential enhancements of GABA-based drugs. This discovery adds to the sparse evidence of commonalities between bacteria and humans in sensing essential components.
Melanoma referral centers worldwide have adopted systemic therapies to treat high-risk melanoma, reducing the need for lymph node removal surgeries. The shift in treatment plans was driven by rapid adoption of effective treatments and a desire to avoid lifelong complications of surgery.
Researchers will compare proton, carbon and electron radiotherapy to protect normal tissues from harm while controlling solid tumors of the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, soft tissues throughout the body, and bones. The goal is to develop a more effective treatment with shorter duration and frequency.
A team of scientists used eDNA analysis to detect whales and dolphins in New York waters, providing valuable information for conservation efforts. The technique, which analyzes DNA left behind by wildlife, complements existing methods like visual observations and acoustic monitoring.
Researchers assess predictive skills of ocean heat content in two state-of-the-art seasonal forecasting systems, finding potential to predict sub-surface warming up to two seasons in advance. This could aid mitigation of extreme events and provide early warnings for industries such as aquaculture and fishing.
A new study reveals that face masks can play a crucial role in reducing the risk of Covid-19 transmission, with risks decreasing by up to 99% when worn correctly. The researchers developed a more advanced model to assess viral exposure risks and found that even short distances become negligible with proper mask-wearing.
New research found that people with multiple sclerosis used online telehealth services more frequently to stay in contact with healthcare providers and were highly satisfied with the outcome. Telehealth appointments nearly doubled the rates of in-person medical care appointments.
Researchers have discovered that sigma 1 receptor plays a crucial role in protecting retinal ganglion cells from damage in glaucoma. The protein enables astrocytes to secrete supportive factors for neurons, improving their survival and function.
The study found that White people are more than twice as likely to get some types of cancer, including melanoma skin cancer and oesophageal bladder cancers, compared to Black, Asian or Mixed ethnic backgrounds. Black people are also more likely to get certain types of cancer, such as myeloma and prostate cancer.
A team of biomedical engineers from Purdue University developed a new anticounterfeiting technology using cyberphysical watermarks that can be read by smartphones. The technology uses edible silk and FDA-approved food dye to create a hidden digital key on medications, allowing patients to confirm authenticity and dose information.
Climate change, elevated CO2 concentrations, and increasing nitrogen fixation are projected to reduce the Belt and Road region's net ecosystem production trend by ~40% from 2031-2100. Net primary production may increase in response to rising CO2, but soil respiration is expected to rise more, leading to a decrease in carbon sequestration.
Researchers analyzed 263 viper species to find significant correlations between horn types and habitats. Nasal horns are associated with terrestrial forest habitats, while ocular horns are linked to tree-dwelling or sparsely vegetated environments.
The end-Permian mass extinction was characterized by a 10-degree climate warming, with 75% of organisms going extinct on land and 90% in oceans. Machine learning analysis reveals that declining oxygen levels, rising water temperatures, and ocean acidification were the key factors in organism survival or extinction.
Researchers at Politecnico di Milano have discovered a new type of phase transition in a quasi-crystal made of laser light, allowing for the simultaneous control and modification of its properties. This breakthrough could lead to the development of novel materials with unprecedented flexibility and controllability.
Scientists at Japan's National Institute for Fusion Science discovered a self-sustained mechanism that controls the heat load on the divertor in a fusion reactor. By analyzing the magnetic island and plasma current mirror, they found a competition between two processes that can be described by a biological predator-prey model, which su...
Researchers analyzed skin cell data to identify gene expression patterns responsible for inflammation in atopic dermatitis. Crustacean-inspired cotton was found to control water flow through a special wicking mechanism. Autonomous water treatment systems were also developed to improve energy efficiency and waste reduction.