Thousands of human genomics and genetics researchers, clinicians, and experts will attend the annual ASHG meeting in Los Angeles, presenting nearly 400 live presentations, over 2,500 published posters, and 200 exhibitors. The program features exciting sessions highlighting breakthroughs in research progress and emerging issues.
Researchers found a strong link between green space and reduced violent and property crime risk across 300 US cities. The study controlled for demographics, poverty, and other factors to confirm the findings.
Researchers found that adding eco-friendly ratings on menu items increased the likelihood of diners choosing more sustainable options. The study showed a significant increase in sustainable food choices, particularly among those already motivated to act sustainably.
Studies show improved mental health and quality of life in transgender women using hormone therapy, with some concerns about cardiovascular risk. The therapy's effects on breast cancer risk are mixed and more research is needed.
Researchers found that conventional engineered solutions are limited in their ability to adapt to climate change, while nature-based solutions can help coasts absorb impacts of coastal floods and storm surges. The study suggests a shift towards resilience strategies such as living shorelines, constructed wetlands, and strategic retreat.
A history of migraines is associated with poor sleep in premenopausal women, but the relationship changes in perimenopausal women due to factors like body mass index, anxiety, and hot flashes. Poor sleep quality significantly impacts work productivity and quality of life, costing the US economy approximately $411 billion annually.
Researchers from Arizona State University and the University of Michigan investigated the effectiveness of virtual private networks in protecting users' data. They found that traffic can still be attacked through VPN tunnels, making them vulnerable to redirection and malware attacks.
Researchers found a significant association between extreme heat exposure and emergency room visits for acute kidney injury, kidney stones, and urinary tract infections. The impact of extreme heat exposure lasted up to a week, with stronger effects during transitional months.
The toolkit provides step-by-step guidance on finding and publicizing firearm storage locations, as well as sample storage agreements. Eight states already have partial maps available online, with Colorado and Washington leading the way.
The Keck School of Medicine's Stevens INI has received a nearly $2 million grant to upgrade its storage system, increasing its capacity to handle vast amounts of brain imaging data. This will enable the lab to maximize scientific productivity and fulfill its promise to collaborate with researchers globally.
Researchers discovered that even short-term exposure to diacetyl can cause lung damage when paired with a second insult like the flu. Mice exposed to low-level diacetyl over five consecutive days then infected with flu showed significant impairment of lung function and airway repair.
A new study led by PSU researchers finds that climate models can accurately simulate large-scale weather patterns over the Pacific Northwest. The study uses data from the state-of-the-art CMIP6 model and machine learning techniques to compare model outputs with historical observed data, finding a strong match between the two.
Researchers have identified an endocannabinoid, 2-linoleoyl glycerol (2-LG), responsible for activating TRP channels in photoreceptor cells. This discovery sheds light on the visual transduction process and may have implications for other sensory systems.
Researchers measured plant-soil feedbacks for six perennial prairie grass species using a short-term greenhouse study. The findings did not match outcomes observed in a long-term field experiment at Minnesota's Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve, highlighting the limitations of short-term experiments.
Researchers at the University of Virginia have developed a new material system that allows for the co-location of computation and memory on a single chip. This breakthrough could help flatten the energy demand curve for computing and reduce the strain on power grids.
A study of over 4 million claims found that Black women had less access to new mammography technology, even when receiving mammograms at the same institution. The disparities in digital breast tomosynthesis use among Black and white women began to subside after 2016.
Pharmaceutical contamination poses significant risks to ecosystems due to the widespread use of medicines in humans and animals. Researchers emphasize the need for greener drug design, improved wastewater management, and responsible use of drugs.
Researchers at the University of Basel have discovered a new antibiotic, Dynobactin, effective against resistant Gram-negative bacteria. The compound blocks bacterial membrane protein BamA, preventing its job and killing the bacteria. This finding offers a boost to antibiotics research and could lead to more effective drugs.
A comparative effectiveness study of 367 US military service members found that within-home storage options, such as locking devices, were more effective in promoting safe firearm storage practices. The study suggests that safe firearm storage messaging is a scalable intervention to prevent accidents and save lives.
Collaborations between firms with the same partner can hurt company success, but help employees develop social capital and advance their careers. Employees often benefit from these connections, which can lead to better job opportunities and skill development.
A new study in The American Journal of Pathology found that inhibiting neuropilin 2 in smooth muscle can enhance contraction and motility of the distal colon. This could provide opportunities to regulate smooth muscle activity in patients with colonic disorders.
Researchers at the Paul Scherrer Institute use advanced microscopy to visualize fine details in Zwischgold, a highly advanced medieval material. The technique reveals the structure and composition of the material, shedding light on its production methods.
A new method for combining platinum with the rare earth element lanthanum as an alloy has been devised to improve the performance and reduce the cost of fuel cells. The development is expected to make it easier to decarbonize heavy transport vehicles that are less amenable to battery power.
A University of California, Irvine study reveals that transitioning to cleaner trucks will have a greater impact on public health than building upgrades, benefiting low-income Californians most. Climate policy decisions must consider environmental justice implications to achieve equitable outcomes.
Researchers at Rice University have received National Science Foundation support to speed up the analysis of wastewater for coronaviruses from hours to seconds. The team will develop bioelectric sensors that deliver immediate notice about the presence of viruses like SARS-CoV-2.
New research from the University of Surrey finds that plant-based food sales increased by 57% during Veganuary, yet meat sales remained unchanged. The study suggests that retailers have a crucial role in promoting healthier, sustainable diets, but more needs to be done to reduce UK's reliance on meat.
Researchers warn that half of the world's coral reefs may become unsuitable by 2035 due to a combination of climate change stressors. This finding has significant implications for local biodiversity, culture, fisheries, and tourism in Hawaii and beyond.
A new study by University of Illinois researchers estimates the costs of removing invasive Miscanthus plants, ranging from $85 to $3,316 per site. The study's findings provide valuable insights into the challenges of eradication and highlight the need for accurate research and planning.
Researchers have created a wearable insect repellent by encapsulating IR3535 in biodegradable polymer and shaping it into a ring or bracelet. The repellent continuously evaporates, forming a barrier for insects, offering several hours of protection.
Researchers propose an optical imaging system for real-time hypoxia imaging in cancer treatment. The technique utilizes protoporphyrin IX to enhance contrast between tumors and healthy tissues, allowing for more effective surgical removal.
A recent study published in Journal of Biological Rhythms found no association between the time of day when COVID-19 vaccine was received and antibody response. The researchers recruited 332 Japanese participants and measured antibody titers against SARS-CoV-2, with age-specific decreases observed.
People living with HIV are at high risk of tuberculosis infection and disease, yet many questions remain unanswered about developing an effective TB vaccine. The NIH/DAIDS Cross-Network calls for their inclusion in clinical trials to prioritize access to safe and effective TB vaccines.
A Baycrest study found that the gut microbiome plays a role in how diet and exercise affect brain health and dementia risk. Lifestyle interventions like Mediterranean-style diets can improve cognition and promote healthier microbiomes.
Researchers propose a new design for highly-active anode catalysts in direct methanol fuel cells using ultrafine Rh nanoparticles anchored on 3D graphene-zeolitic imidazole frameworks. The hybrid architectures enhance electrochemical performance and activate synergistic catalytic effects.
A new study shows that COVID-19 booster jabs significantly improve immunity against SARS-CoV-2 variants in elderly Singaporeans. The study found that a third vaccine dose boosts low antibody responses and T cell responses in older adults, providing better protection against severe disease.
Mathematicians at Aston University are developing computational modelling techniques to examine biological drag reduction methods, such as fish slime secreted by predator-avoiding fish. This project aims to reduce skin-friction drag and increase the performance range of electric vehicles, contributing to a reduction in CO2 emissions.
Scientists at Duke University have engineered materials capable of producing tunable plasmonic properties while withstand extremely high temperatures. The new high-entropy carbides can achieve improved communications and thermal regulation in aerospace technologies, including satellites and hypersonic aircraft.
The study found that personality types, like orchids and dandelions, affect cognitive health in older adults. Researchers suggest designing supportive programs tailored to individual needs, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Researchers developed proxies to estimate tellurium content globally and found that 18 gold mines in the US and Canada could produce ~90 tons/year of tellurium, while six copper, zinc, and nickel mines had potential for ~170 tons/yr. This represents a minimum estimate, with actual production potentially exceeding by up to 25%.
Researchers found that metformin targeted 30 genes associated with atrial fibrillation, showing direct effects on gene expression for eight. The study suggests metformin may be a promising candidate for treating atrial fibrillation due to its potential to reduce the risk of complications such as stroke and heart failure.
Working with robots may lead to increased reports of burnout and incivility among employees. Self-affirmation exercises can help mitigate fears about being replaced by machines.
Researchers have found evidence of genetic diversity in the prion protein gene of endangered Eld's deer, which could provide resistance to chronic wasting disease. The study suggests reducing the frequency of a variant associated with the disease and implementing strict management practices to prevent exposure.
Developing a new technology for preventing catheter obstructions in patients with hydrocephaly has been successfully demonstrated in a European project. Concentrating ultrasound waves can detach materials from the inside of shunts implanted in the brains of patients, enabling preventive cleaning without affecting other areas.
A Virginia Tech graduate student has been awarded a two-year grant to explore a synthetic molecule as a basis for treating arrhythmias. The research aims to identify a combination of the molecule that could prevent arrhythmic incidents and potentially even sudden cardiac death.
Children with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia are diagnosed earlier and have higher untreated LDL-C levels than adults, while those not identified early miss out on decades of life-saving treatment. This study emphasizes the need for universal screening to identify children with HoFH or heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia.
A global study of nearly 16,000 people in 84 countries found that negative framing in public health messaging increases anxiety but doesn't shift attitudes or behavior related to protective actions. The research suggests using positive wording may be more effective for encouraging action.
A nationwide survey found that many physicians are complacent with current levels of diversity, with a significant gap in satisfaction with workplace diversity among Black physicians. The study recommends increasing mentorship opportunities and representation of underrepresented groups in leadership positions to improve workforce diver...
A team of international researchers used aurora data to assess the impact of radiation-belt electrons on the ozone layer. They found a localized ozone hole in the mesosphere, about 400 km wide, directly below isolated proton auroras, with up to 10-60% of ozone destroyed.
A new study by Brigham Young University researchers found that media messages designed to humanize outgroups do almost nothing to increase empathy in people with high animosity towards the group. However, these messages do increase empathy in those who already view the group positively. The study suggests that dissonance, or discomfort...
The HOMED project developed a full panel of scientific knowledge and practical solutions for managing emerging native and non-native forest pests and pathogens threatening European forests. The project's results include over 60 scientific publications, policy briefs, practice abstracts, educational videos, and tools.
A new study from Indiana University researchers found that young athletes who participate in multidirectional sports build stronger bones, reducing the risk of bone injuries as adults. The study suggests that delaying specialization in running and focusing on 'multidirectional' sports can lead to a more robust skeleton.
Researchers call for a shift in Australia's approach to obesity, advocating for weight-inclusive policies and challenging the conventional emphasis on personal responsibility. The study highlights the need to address weight stigma in schools, workplaces, healthcare, and social media.
Interdisciplinary researchers at the Beckman Institute have received a four-year, $2M award from the National Institutes of Health to develop a device that can instantly enable real-time 3D ultrasound imaging. The device, named FASTER, is designed to improve high-quality medical imaging accessibility in diverse communities.
Seipin deficiency in Berardinelli-Seip congenital lipodystrophy type 2 leads to loss of subcutaneous fat tissue. PC deficiency suppresses embryonic lethality but exacerbates lipid droplet defect, suggesting distinct mechanisms for seipin's role in lipid homeostasis and physiology.
A study published in Remote Sensing has found substantial subsidence in Katy, Spring, The Woodlands, Mont Belvieu, with groundwater and oil extraction identified as primary causes. Severe subsidence poses a risk of flooding and exacerbates negative feedback loops.
A study published in the Journal of Medical Screening found that pre-booked appointments increased breast cancer screening attendance by 53.1%, compared to 60.6% for timed appointments in London between September 2020 and March 2021.
Researchers found geographical differences in PCOS symptoms among Black and white women, with regional variations affecting body mass index and hormone levels. The study suggests genetic and environmental influences on the disease's manifestation, highlighting the need for precision medicine tailored to specific needs.
A long-term study found that older patients with type 2 diabetes treated with glitazones had a 22% lower risk of developing dementia. These drugs may effectively prevent dementia in high-risk patients and are now worth prioritizing for future clinical studies.
Insect larvae may contribute to microplastic pollution in rivers by chewing up litter. Researchers found that larvae use sharp teeth to break down plastic into smaller pieces, building their protective casing.
Taking more than 8,200 steps per day may protect against obesity, sleep apnea, and other conditions. The study analyzed data from over 6,000 participants and found that increasing daily steps can reduce the risk of chronic diseases.