Researchers at UNC School of Medicine used optogenetic techniques to stimulate specific brain cells, increasing production of neural stem cells and neurons relevant to memory and emotion processing. This promoted neurogenesis, altering anxiety-like behaviors in mice.
A national study found that the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine prevented 8.7 million symptomatic cases, 690,000 hospitalizations, and 110,000 deaths in the US. The vaccine also saved more than $30 billion in healthcare costs and over $40 billion in lost productivity.
New research published in CMAJ found that 11% of patients discharged from COVID-19 hospitalization were readmitted or died within 30 days. Notably, the rates of readmission were consistent with admissions for other medical conditions.
A new study found that deaths from alcohol use disorder increased dramatically during the pandemic, with a 25% higher rate in 2020 and 22% higher in 2021 compared to projected rates. Young adults aged 25-44 experienced the steepest upward trend in alcohol use disorder mortality.
Plazi receives EUR 1.5 million grant from Arcadia Fund to develop Biodiversity Literature Repository (BLR), providing access to over 750,000 taxonomic treatments, figures, and material citations. The project aims to liberate data from scientific publications, making it FAIR and open for researchers.
A physicist at TU Graz has developed a three-in-one hybrid material that reacts to force, moisture and temperature with high spatial resolution. The smart skin has potential applications in robotics, smart prosthetics and healthcare, and its production can be easily scaled and implemented.
A team of Georgia State researchers used CRISPR-Cas9 technology to eliminate the Avpr1a receptor in hamsters, leading to unexpected changes in their social behavior. The study found that knocking out the receptor increased social communication behaviors and eliminated sex differences in aggression.
Researchers developed a real-time polarized infrared spectroscopy technique to study metal-organic frameworks and guest molecule interactions. This method provides insights into host-guest and guest-host interactions, enabling the development of high-performance porous materials.
Two new species of Amazonian fish have been discovered and described by Smithsonian researcher Murilo Pastana, one with vibrant red-orange fins and another that is technically a miniature fish. The species are at risk of extinction due to deforestation in the region where they inhabit.
Researchers at Stockholm University have identified a novel mechanism for regulating the supply of DNA building blocks, providing a potential new target for designing better antibiotics. By targeting the pathogen's ability to reproduce, scientists may be able to control the growth of bacteria such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
A new modeling framework suggests that some microbial ecosystems are more easily understood through coarse-graining, which involves omitting details. This approach could help biologists study microbes in their natural environments, rather than isolating them in a petri dish.
Researchers found that people living with SCD have more medical appointments and urgent care visits, leading to higher out-of-pocket costs of $1,300 annually. The study suggests that curative therapies could reduce these costs, but accessing them will depend on conversations among policymakers, insurers, and patients.
Researchers at HKU have discovered a novel cellular and molecular interaction between cancer cells and tumour-associated macrophages that promote peritoneal metastasis of ovarian cancer. The study reveals that Wnt/b-catenin signalling upregulates the expression of metadherin, which communicates with macrophages through CEACAM1.
Researchers at Drexel University have developed a design optimization system to incorporate blood vessel-like cooling networks into battery packaging for electric vehicles. The system balances performance-enhancing factors against problematic variables like weight and thermal activity to provide the best battery package specifications.
A new IU study found misconceptions about naloxone, such as it encourages more drug use, despite widespread belief that trained bystanders can prevent overdoses. The study suggests that addressing these misperceptions is crucial to increase naloxone distribution and overdose education programs.
Researchers and academics from the UK and Germany come together to discuss therapeutic footwear for people with diabetes. The workshop aims to establish new research links and develop research capacity to improve the lives of those affected.
A new nanosensor platform uses machine learning to analyze spectral signatures of carbon nanotubes for early detection of ovarian cancer. The approach detects biomarkers and recognizes the cancer itself, offering a promising alternative to traditional methods.
A University of Gothenburg study found that midwives' job satisfaction is linked to possibilities for development, role conflict resolution, and burnout avoidance. The research highlights the importance of quality work, recognition, and autonomy in midwives' occupational roles.
Researchers from Rice University and Brown University demonstrate a DIY method to hack 6G frequency using office paper, inkjet printer, metallic foil transfer, and laminator. The 'metasurface-in-the-middle' attack can redirect part of a high-frequency transmission between two users, threatening the security of next-gen wireless networks.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge used ultra-high strength '7T' MRI scanners to measure changes in the brains of people with Parkinson's disease, PSP, or good health. The study found that damage to the locus coeruleus region correlates with severe cognitive symptoms and apathy.
Researchers at Medical University of South Carolina found that blocking the enzyme polymerase reduces the virus's ability to multiply. This discovery exposes an Achilles' heel that could be targeted with a therapeutic. Polymerase is a key tool for DNA replication and repair, making the virus vulnerable to disruption.
A new study examining body-worn camera use in Phoenix found that departmental policy is a crucial factor in determining activation rates. The study revealed that policies confining, structuring, and checking officer discretion significantly impact decisions on turning on the cameras.
A recent study found that previous therapy interventions, including ACT, did not spare cancer survivors from increased anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers found that anxiety symptoms worsened over time, with participants who received ACT intervention performing worse than those who received usual care.
The event will explore current and new trends in simulation and immersive technologies for teaching, learning, assessment, research and patient safety in health and social care. Keynote speakers include Dr Stefan Monk, Professor Keith Weeks, and Mr Norman Woolley.
Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine found that COVID-19, MIS-C and Kawasaki disease share similar underlying molecular patterns. The study reveals that MIS-C is a more severe version of the immune response than KD, with potential implications for improved disease diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers at IISc and Theranautilus have developed nano-sized robots that can manipulate using a magnetic field to kill bacteria in dentinal tubules, improving the success rate of root canal treatments. The nanobots were able to penetrate further than previous methods, providing a safer alternative to harsh chemicals or antibiotics.
Researchers have developed a novel CRISPR-Cas9 method for gene editing in cockroaches, achieving efficiency rates of up to 22% and over 50% in the red flour beetle. The technique, named DIPA-CRISPR, allows for efficient and accessible gene editing without requiring expensive equipment or skilled laboratory personnel.
Researchers are monitoring children for exposure to and responses to emerging pathogens, aiming to develop diagnostic, therapeutic and preventive tools for future pandemics. The study will inform the development of tests, treatments and vaccines that may be used in future pandemics.
Researchers and Indigenous activists urge a more collaborative and inclusive approach to microbiome research, addressing logistical and ethical challenges. The authors propose transparent dialogue with communities and development of inclusive research infrastructure.
Researchers have identified 10 new genes linked to hearing loss, casting doubt on the understanding that age-related hearing impairment originates mainly from sensory hair cells. The study suggests that the stria vascularis, a part of the cochlea in the ear, is a new target for treatments to help people with hearing loss.
A new study published in China Economic Quarterly International found that the construction of China's national trunk highway system did not benefit all regions or enterprises along the route. County-level enterprises remained at the low end of the regional industrial value chain, despite improved connectivity and efficiency improvements.
A new circuit model provides an explanation for how deep brain stimulation (DBS) relieves Parkinson's disease motor symptoms by interrupting a vicious cycle between the subthalamic nucleus and the striatum. The model suggests that DBS restores a balance with other rhythm frequencies, enabling better movement control.
Harbir Antil and Tyrus Berry from George Mason University received a $1M grant from DARPA to study the geometries of learning. The project aims to develop novel methods for improving educational outcomes.
A new study identifies Komodo National Park as a key location for the recovery of threatened manta rays. The research uses crowdsourced photographs and machine learning to track individual manta rays' movements and preferences, revealing some species have strong site loyalties despite short distances.
Scientists at UMass Amherst developed a new theory to predict how double-gyroid networks form in polymer superstructures. The theory reveals the hidden geometry allowing polymers to assume this complex shape.
A study of over 4,000 US high school boys found a strong association between muscle-building exercise and physical fighting, as well as carrying weapons. The research highlights the importance of addressing gender equity and violence among adolescent boys.
Two studies found that approximately one in eight doctors experienced high levels of moral distress, which increased the risk of anxiety, depression, and burnout. Healthcare organizations can reduce moral distress by providing opportunities for discussing ethical concerns and supporting staff well-being.
Researchers at Uppsala University found that rare genetic variants contribute less to common diseases than previously thought. Common genetic variants with small effects play a major role in disease risk. High-throughput sequencing technologies are crucial for identifying individuals with pronounced genetic risks, suitable for precisio...
The WHO Foundation's Gift Acceptance Policy does not specifically preclude donations from the alcohol industry, allowing for case-by-case acceptance. However, critics argue that this lack of transparency and safeguards against corporate influence poses a risk to the agency's integrity and public health goals.
Scientists have identified the cuticle as the primary defense mechanism for plants against UV-B radiation, with protection levels exceeding 90%. The cuticle absorbs energy and converts it into heat, maintaining continued protection through a cyclical process.
Research found that voluntary wheel running increased dopamine signaling in motor areas of mice. This increase remained even after exercise ended. The study suggests BDNF may catalyze increased dopamine signaling.
A new clinical decision support software platform reduces harm due to medication errors in the OR by more than 95%. Clinicians using the system work with greater efficiency and provide better care, with improved blood pressure control and accurate pain medication adjustments.
The QUSTom project aims to develop a new medical imaging modality using ultrasound and supercomputing, improving breast cancer diagnosis and potentially replacing mammograms. The technology will offer superior image quality and better tumor monitoring, while being completely safe for patients.
Elevated heavy metal levels in rivers can lead to higher antibiotic resistance levels, according to research by Newcastle University and the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi. The study found that metal pollution increases antibiotic resistance gene abundances, affecting resident bacteria.
A new observational study from Vanderbilt University Medical Center compares an artificial intelligence algorithm with face-to-face screening for estimating suicide risk. The ensemble learning method produced nearly always better predictions across the board compared to C-SSRS or VSAIL alone.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed FAXID, a hardware-based approach for detecting ransomware that is significantly faster than software-based methods. In proof-of-concept testing, FAXID demonstrated accuracy comparable to XGBoost but with speeds up to 65.8 times faster.
A new study reveals that allergic asthma is a significant risk factor for human cardiovascular diseases, with certain medications affecting heart health. Researchers found that inflammatory cells play a crucial role in both conditions and that targeting them may lead to better treatment options.
A Rutgers study found that individuals with opioid-use disorder who used non-prescribed buprenorphine before entering treatment were twice as likely to remain in care. Those who used the medication also had significantly lower rates of opioid use during the first six months in treatment.
A new study suggests that a transformative shift in the global food system, focusing on efficiency and reducing animal products, could significantly decrease emissions. However, such changes might lead to increased food prices, affecting vulnerable populations.
Researchers compared SARS-CoV-2 antibody titers after Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines in immunosuppressed patients. The study found differing antibody responses among these individuals, who have decreased immune responses to standard vaccines.
A Rutgers University study found that Black adults raised in the South are more likely to experience cognition problems later in life due to factors such as poverty and socioeconomic disadvantage. In contrast, White adults from the South with higher childhood socioeconomic status tend to perform better cognitively.
A new method for creating key components of solar cells, X-ray detectors, and LEDs uses water to control the growth of phase-pure perovskite crystals. This approach allows for precise tuning of crystal structures at room temperature.
Researchers from Tokyo Tech developed an alumina-supported iron-based catalyst that efficiently converts CO2 into formic acid with up to 90% selectivity. The new catalyst's excellent recyclability and low-cost nature make it a promising candidate for reducing atmospheric CO2 levels and providing energy via combustion.
A new case report highlights the risks of herbal supplements containing CBD and berberine, which can cause cardiac arrhythmias. The study involves a patient who experienced dizziness and fainting after taking high doses of hemp oil and berberine supplements, leading to a life-threatening condition.
A new system, RescueCASTR, equips rescuers with 360-degree body cameras sending video and photos back to a central command post. This allows the commander to track teams, coordinate efforts and get on-the-ground views of wilderness conditions.
A new study suggests that the Hypatia Stone, discovered in Egypt, may be the first tangible evidence on Earth of a supernova type Ia explosion. The stone's unique chemistry and elemental composition contradict conventional views of solar system formation, potentially revealing a long-hidden secret about our cosmic neighborhood.
Researchers at the University of Colorado School of Medicine have found that histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) regulates heart stiffness by acting on titin protein. This discovery could lead to novel treatments for heart failure, a condition affecting millions worldwide.
Researchers at Georgia Tech have developed the first-ever electrically tunable photonic metasurface platform, which enables reconfigurable metasurfaces with high levels of optical modulation. This breakthrough has significant implications for various technologies such as LiDAR systems, imaging, spectroscopy and sensing.
A research team developed a new approach to generate deep-ultraviolet lasing through a 'domino upconversion' process of nanoparticles using near-infrared light. This breakthrough enables the construction of miniaturised high energy lasers for bio-detection and photonic devices.
A recent study by Dickinson College researcher Marie Helweg-Larsen found that people who worried more about COVID-19 took more precautions against catching the disease. The study analyzed data from 738 participants and found that worrying was a stronger predictor of precautionary behavior than perceived risk.
A team led by Flinders University archaeologist Dr Martin Polkinghorne is reuniting ancient ceramics with their ships of origin, developing a narrative of ancient global trade. The research project will also promote cultural value and awareness among communities in Indonesia and Australia.
Researchers develop novel broadband photodetectors expanding from deep ultraviolet to near infrared using CsPbCl3:Cer:Mn-LC, iodine-based perovskite quantum dots, and organic bulk heterojunction. The devices exhibit excellent performances with a wide response range, high responsivity, and detectivity, especially in UV and NIR regions.
Researchers have trained sniffer dogs to detect SARS-CoV-2 in airport passengers with high accuracy, comparable to PCR swab tests. The dogs' performance was found to be robust across various scenarios, including low prevalence populations, suggesting their potential for widespread use in screening.
Researchers have developed CAS(ME)3, a large-scale micro-expression database with depth information and high ecological validity. The database contains 1,109 manually labeled micro-expressions and 3,490 macro-expressions, allowing for more accurate emotional analysis and recognition.
Researchers at the University of Cologne investigated UPF3A and UPF3B proteins involved in nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD), a quality control mechanism preventing defective mRNA from being processed into harmful proteins. The study shows that both proteins have partially overlapping functions, enabling fault-tolerant activation of NMD.
A research team found that the coupling relationship between thermal control and material removal affects machining accuracy and energy efficiency. The study aims to improve energy-efficient and precision machining collaboratively.
The 2022 Warren Alpert Prize recognizes Karikó, Weissman, Şahin, Türeci, and Huang for their pioneering mRNA research. Their work led to the design of COVID-19 vaccines, marking a crucial turning point in pandemic response.
A 10-year study reveals that mechanical thinning reduces fire behavior metrics without increasing invasive grasses, while prescribed fire leads to more invasive grasses. Researchers hope their findings can inform fuel break construction efforts in the sagebrush steppe ecosystem.
A massive study on Amazon wildlife uses over 57,000 camera trap images to document species diversity and habitat loss. The images reveal a staggering array of wildlife, including jaguars, pumas, giant anteaters, and dozens of other species.
Harbir Antil leads a project to create scalable algorithms for optimizing nonlinear dynamical systems with uncertainty. The research aims to enable automated design, data analysis, and optimization using randomized preconditioning and compression methods.
The research team created a three-dimensional vertical solar panel system using advanced optical materials, fibers, and organic solar cells. This design significantly improves the efficiency of existing solar panels, enabling them to generate power for longer periods and in various environments.
A new system allows for fast and accurate detection of gluten in food using a cell phone, reducing analysis time from hours to minutes. The test can also help prevent fraud in meat products by detecting added grains.
Researchers are exploring bio-inspired smart insulation materials that can adapt, heal, and report their own failure to inspectors, enabling more efficient and reliable power grids. These materials have the potential to extend service life and prevent costly interruptions.
Researchers have captured the first 3D images of malaria parasites and how anti-malarial compounds like PMIX and PMX work to stop their spread. The findings will enable the design of new compounds that can effectively block Plasmepsins, preventing malaria parasite replication.
A meta-analysis of 130 experiments involving 10,000 participants found a connection between upright postures and power posing with improved self-perception. However, the effects on behavior and hormone levels were less robust and not supported by the findings.
A global study found a combination of two drugs dramatically reduces the chances of suffering an asthma attack. The combination of albuterol and budesonide lowers the number of sudden episodes of shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing in patients.
The OHSU clinic, which provides same-day access to buprenorphine, has successfully served patients in 32 of Oregon's 36 counties. A new study found that many patients prefer the virtual model, with 12 out of 19 participants expressing strong support for its ease of access and critical role in treatment.
Researchers have developed a novel biochemical nanomachine that directly kills cancer cells by folding and unfolding in specific cellular environments. The nanomachine is designed to selectively penetrate cancer cells while restricting movement in normal cells, inducing apoptosis and eliminating the need for anticancer medication.
A study conducted at Brigham and Women's Hospital found that a higher dose of melatonin (5mg) increased total sleep time compared to placebo in healthy older adults. The high-dose melatonin group showed significant improvements in both nighttime and daytime sleep episodes.
A new study reveals that running increases dopamine release and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, leading to improved learning, memory, and motor skills. The findings provide insight into the long-term effects of exercise on the brain and may lead to new treatments for Parkinson's disease.
A world-first study reveals why people with COPD are at higher risk of developing severe COVID-19. Researchers found that COPD airway cells had a 24-fold greater infection with SARS-CoV-2, leading to increased viral load and inflammatory responses.
A new micro-device has been developed to streamline the Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) procedure, allowing more IVF clinics to offer this treatment. The device, smaller than a pinhead in size, holds up to 10 eggs and simplifies the injection process.
Exercise strengthens bones, reduces fracture risk, and improves posture in people with osteoporosis. A consensus statement recommends a balanced routine of muscle strengthening exercises on 2-3 days and moderate impact activities on most days.
A team of scientists led by Professor Barbara Pierscionek has made significant progress in developing an anti-cataract drug. Lab trials showed improvement in refractive index profiles and lens opacity in 61% and 46% of cases, respectively.
A global study of over 51,000 adolescents aged 13-15 found that approximately 8.6% reported vaping in the past 30 days, with lower rates for frequent vaping. Countries with higher tobacco taxes tend to have higher adolescent vaping rates.
A clinical trial found that adding immunotherapy to standard treatment increased the likelihood of complete tumor eradication in patients with high PD-L1 expression. The combination could become a new standard of care if confirmed in larger trials.
A new study reveals that individuals with sickle cell disease spend approximately $1.7 million on lifetime medical expenses, highlighting the significant economic burden of living with this disease. The study found that out-of-pocket costs for those with private insurance plans can be as high as 5-10% of their annual income.
Researchers analyzed ancient incense samples from a Tang Dynasty Buddhist temple and found evidence of exotic spices like elemi and frankincense. The findings provide insight into the complex role of incense in religious rituals and court activities during this period.
A new analysis of nationally representative data reveals a significant increase in the impact of HPV vaccination efforts, leading to decreased prevalence of cancer-causing HPV infections among both vaccinated and unvaccinated females. The study found that vaccination has directly protected individuals and generated herd effects, reduci...
A recent study published in Breast Cancer Research suggests that self-reported male infertility may be associated with an increased risk of invasive breast cancer. The researchers conducted a case-control study among 1,998 males diagnosed with breast cancer, comparing them to 1,597 control males without blood relatives. The study found...
Researchers at Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology have developed a new bioinformatics pipeline, CRESSP, to investigate the mechanism underlying autoimmune diseases following SARS-CoV-2 infection. The tool identified potential epitopes responsible for COVID-related autoimmune diseases and predicted cross-reactive epitopes of di...
A new study found that artery stiffness is a better predictor of future Type 2 diabetes risk than blood pressure or other standard risk factors. People with high blood pressure and stiffer arteries had the highest risk of developing diabetes, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment.
A study by Osaka University found that fat accumulation in liver tumors can predict patient response to immunotherapy. The researchers identified a unique tumor immune microenvironment, known as steatotic HCC, which is associated with high infiltration of immune cells but exhaustion of nearby T cells.
Researchers developed PASTE, a method to analyze spatial transcriptomics data in three dimensions, enabling biologists to better understand cell environments and identify rare cell types. The technique can integrate information from multiple tissue slices, providing a more complete picture of gene expression within tissues.
Researchers analyzed de-identified EHR data in the National COVID Cohort Collaborative to find patterns that can help identify individuals with long COVID. The study identified over 200,000 likely cases as of May 2022 and found common features such as new medications, doctor visits, and symptoms.
A wireless pacifier developed by researchers at Washington State University can monitor infants' electrolyte levels without the need for invasive blood draws. This non-invasive method provides real-time monitoring of sodium and potassium ion concentrations in saliva.
Researchers found that Mars' extreme energy budget imbalance can contribute to dust storms. The team analyzed four years of data from NASA missions and found a correlation between the planet's orbits and temperatures, suggesting that the energy excess may be one of the generating mechanisms of Mars' dust storms.
A new study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers suggests that eliminating air pollution emissions from energy-related activities in the United States would prevent over 50,000 premature deaths each year. The study also found that this action could provide more than $600 billion in benefits annually from avoided illness and d...
A new study from Queen Mary University of London suggests that e-cigarettes are just as safe as nicotine patches for pregnant smokers and may help more women quit smoking. The study found that e-cigarette users had better proven quit rates at the end of pregnancy compared to those using nicotine patches.
A team of 76 scientists used multiple forms of technology to collect data on the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano eruption, which was measured globally by 53 infrasound monitors. The data revealed that infrasound waves traveled surprisingly far and accurately recorded the event's seismic activity.
The European drought event from 2018 to 2020 was the most intense in over 250 years, affecting approximately one third of the land area. The drought's total duration was unusually long, starting in April 2018 and ending in December 2020.
A recent study reveals that sexual minority individuals are less likely to undergo cervical cancer screening, with Hispanic individuals facing the most significant disparities. The analysis of 2015–2018 data from the National Health Interview Survey found that white sexual minority participants and Hispanic sexual minority participants...
Researchers argue that methane's climate impact is inadequately represented in existing governance frameworks, neglecting its role in near-term climate change and air pollution. Policymakers can take swift action with available technologies and cost-effective measures to reduce methane emissions.
A UCI-led research team suggests that extending the prescribed burning season in California can help prevent wildland fires from getting out of control. The study found that periods during winter and spring have favorable weather conditions for safe and effective human-set blazes, but limited burn windows are a major obstacle to conduc...
A new study validates modeling of megafire smoke using satellite- and ground-based observations from Australia and British Columbia. The research improves predictive capability for global-scale events, enhancing our understanding of climate change impacts.
A new species of Phalotris snake was discovered in Paraguay's Cerrado forests, characterized by its unique red head, yellow collar, and black lateral band. The species is considered Endangered due to its extreme rarity and limited distribution.