Medically underserved communities face significant barriers to endoscopy-related COVID-19 testing, potentially worsening health care disparities. Researchers recommend addressing these challenges by mailing test kits or offering rapid testing to mitigate delays in diagnosis and management of gastrointestinal illnesses.
A study co-authored by Amelia Villaseñor reveals that the extinction of megafauna in North America more than 10,000 years ago resulted in a reorganized, vulnerable ecosystem. The research found that surviving mammal communities were affected, with vacant niches and changes in dietary habits.
The 2022 NBS Research Summit explores efforts to discover novel technologies for screening, diagnosis, and treatment of genetic conditions in newborns. Clinicians will present their work on improving treatments for various diseases, including Glutaric Aciduria Type 1 and Sickle Cell Diseases.
Researchers used the Advanced Photon Source to study asteroid fragments from Ryugu, finding they were made of water and carbon dioxide ice. The analysis suggests the asteroid formed over 4 billion years ago in the outer solar system, with a hydrated interior and dryer surface.
A study at Europlanet Science Congress 2022 found that super-thin planet nurseries can accelerate the formation of big planets. The team observed a remarkably thin disc of dust and gas around a young star, where large particles settled into a dense midplane, creating conditions favourable for planetary growth.
A study by Lauren Stanton and colleagues found that less bold raccoons learned faster than bolder ones. In a cognitive test, the calmer animals successfully navigated a cubicle to obtain rewards, outperforming their more aggressive counterparts.
Researchers analyzed data from Australia's Reef Life Survey and two major reef monitoring programs to understand the effects of warming waters on reef fish populations. The study found that temperature changes had a greater impact on temperate reefs, while tropical reefs were more affected by habitat changes such as coral bleaching.
A UK trial found that 70% of people with normal weight and type 2 diabetes entered remission by losing around 10% of their body weight, supporting the concept of a personal fat threshold. The study showed that even though participants had normal BMI, they had higher levels of fat in their liver and pancreas than healthy controls.
A study from Brigham Young University found that wearing a pedometer increases daily step counts by an average of 318 steps per day. The researchers discovered that being aware of one's step count through tracking, regardless of specific goals or incentives, can lead to increased physical activity.
A newly discovered sarbecovirus in Russian bats has the ability to use human ACE2 to enter cells and is resistant to antibodies from people vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2. This finding highlights the potential risk of transmission between animals and humans.
A study by the Max Planck Institute found that playing wind instruments releases fewer viruses into the air than singing, but still more than breathing quietly. Wind instruments act as filters for larger particles, reducing transmission risk, while smaller particles spread further and pose a higher risk.
A recent study reveals that anthropogenic air pollution contributes significantly to poor air quality and climate change in the Middle East. The research found that hazardous fine particulate matter from human activities accounts for around 53% of aerosol visible optical depth, posing a significant health risk.
New research reveals that human gut bacteria use plant N-glycans as nutrients, enabling better management of good gut health. The discovery has biotechnological applications, such as reducing allergenic responses to food and medicine.
A recent study of Alaskan brown bears reveals that their gut microbiomes play a crucial role in supporting health and achieving comparable size despite eating vastly different diets. The research sheds light on the importance of diverse dietary niches for bears, which can help them extract nutrition from various food sources.
A new research study by Danielle Abbitt, MD, shows that telehealth follow-up appointments are just as effective as in-clinic visits for detecting and addressing postoperative complications. The study found no significant difference in complication rates or emergency department utilization between telehealth and in-person follow-ups.
Researchers from Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology design a novel approach to create durable organic semiconductor photocathodes, enabling high-efficiency conversion of solar energy to hydrogen. The developed photocathodes demonstrate remarkable stability and can produce hydrogen under actual sunlight.
A new study found that placing a monthly cap on out-of-pocket costs for commercially insured patients could lower their highest monthly healthcare bills by 50-60%. A $500 monthly limit would affect about 25% of enrollees and reduce in-network OOP costs over a year by 46%, while a $250 limit would show a 51% reduction.
Researchers found a specific CAPRIN1 gene mutation linked to impaired protein production, leading to autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, language impairments, and muscle weakness. The study also identified similar symptoms in patients with early-onset ataxia and myasthenia.
Scientists recorded facial expressions of 100 unborn babies to see how they reacted to carrot and kale flavours. Fetuses exposed to carrot showed more laughter-like responses, while those exposed to kale showed more crying-like responses. This study could help understand the development of human taste and smell receptors.
A new wearable device study, DETECT, found that sensor data significantly improves seven-day average predictions for COVID-19 infection by 32.9% in California and 12.2% nationwide. The study tracked physiological changes before symptom onset, providing a valuable tool for predicting viral threats.
A new computer program, ExtRaINSIGHT, has been developed to track harmful mutations in the human genome throughout evolution. The study found three regions of the genome that are extremely sensitive to mutations, including splice sites, miRNA molecules, and central nervous system genes.
Researchers at UTHealth Houston will create a coordinating unit for biostatistics, informatics, and engagement to advance knowledge about human brain neurons. The project aims to produce an open-access digital brain cell reference atlas to improve understanding of neurological functions and disorders.
Researchers at the University of Basel have achieved a record low temperature of 220 microkelvin by cooling an electric circuit made of copper on a silicon chip using magnetic fields and an improved thermometer. This breakthrough allows for further study of quantum effects and potential applications in quantum technologies.
A new analysis suggests that bird-hipped dinosaurs evolved from silesaurs, which were first identified two decades ago. The study reveals a 25-million-year gap in the fossil record, but provides insight into the early evolution of ornithischians.
Researchers at National Jewish Health found pirfenidone effective in slowing ILD progression in RA patients, potentially increasing overall survival. The study was the first prospective treatment trial for this condition.
Researchers at Rice University have created macroscale, modular materials from engineered bacteria that can self-assemble and perform various functions. The materials, dubbed BUD-ELMs, contain living cells that allow them to grow, repair, and respond to external stimuli.
A new genetically based score developed by McGill University researchers can identify children at high risk for impulsive behavior with a high degree of accuracy. The score was created by analyzing the co-expression of genes in key brain regions, providing a novel understanding of the neurobiology of impulsivity.
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine are conducting a five-year study to assess the tradeoffs between soccer's aerobic brain benefits and the adverse effects from heading. The study will enroll 280 young men and women and investigate whether soccer's aerobic benefits counterbalance the damage sustained from heading.
A new study published in The Lancet Psychiatry suggests that adults with a history of childhood trauma can experience symptom improvement after pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, or combination treatment. Despite previous theories, these common treatments are effective for patients with childhood trauma.
A study has mapped streamflow alterations across the continental US, using measurements from over 7,000 stream gauges. The dataset provides valuable data for determining societal impacts on ecosystems and setting environmental flow standards.
Researchers at Rice University have created stable and efficient halide perovskite solar cells by finding the right solvent design to apply a 2D top layer on top of a 3D bottom layer. The new method achieves high power conversion efficiencies, comparable to commercially available solar cells, while maintaining stability.
A recent study highlights the importance of physical exercise, social relationships, and passion in maintaining brain health. By adopting these three factors, individuals can improve their cognitive function and reduce the risk of age-related decline.
Solid-state NMR spectroscopy provides atomic-level insights into zeolite structure, dynamic behavior, and catalytic reactions. The technique enables the direct detection of framework structure and acid sites, allowing for optimized zeolites with improved catalytic performance.
Researchers from Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München have deciphered a crucial signaling mechanism that enables trypanosomes to reach the salivary glands of tsetse flies. By understanding this process, scientists can develop new methods to prevent transmission of African sleeping sickness.
A Stanford Medicine study reveals SARS-CoV-2 can directly infect adipose tissue, leading to viral replication and inflammation. Obesity is a significant risk factor for severe COVID-19 outcomes due to the virus's ability to create an inflammatory storm in fat tissue.
Researchers have developed a simplified and fast optoretinography approach to measure retinal function, potentially accelerating the development of new treatments for eye diseases. The technique can collect data from three healthy subjects in just ten minutes and has been demonstrated to be reproducible.
Researchers found that elevated CO2 levels stimulate tree growth, resulting in longer and more extensive root systems. This adaptation helps trees absorb nutrients from the soil, providing limited protection against climate change. The study provides insights into how forests respond to increased carbon dioxide levels.
The analysis of particles from asteroid Ryugu has revealed a high carbon content, similar to the Sun, and the presence of rare earth metals in concentrations 100 times higher than elsewhere in the solar system. The findings suggest that Ryugu originated from a parent asteroid formed in the outer solar nebula.
Physicists at the University of Groningen have observed a significant increase in magnon conductivity in ultrathin YIG films, surpassing expectations by three orders of magnitude. This unexpected result could lead to new devices and discoveries in spintronics.
A study published in JCI Insight has found that genetic variation plays a crucial role in the racial disparity of esophageal cancer cases. Researchers used artificial intelligence-guided tools to pinpoint a specific type of immune cell as the disease driver, and a protective genetic factor associated with African Americans.
Physicists at Forschungszentrum Jülich and RWTH Aachen University have successfully transferred electrons over several micrometres on a quantum chip, paving the way for a scalable quantum computer architecture that can support millions of qubits. The 'quantum bus' approach enables the coupling of qubits without the need for extensive c...
Scientists at the University of California San Diego have developed a new biodegradable polyurethane material that can break down in seawater, reducing plastic pollution. The material was tested in marine environments and found to be degraded by microorganisms, which consume the chemicals as nutrients.
The author suggests that individuals at average risk between 45 and 49 years old should consider non-invasive screening alternatives, such as fecal immunochemical tests or stool DNA testing. This approach would benefit others who need more invasive screening resources and reduce the strain on colonoscopy services.
A recent study suggests that coral reefs can evolve and adapt to climate change by protecting a sufficient diversity of coral reefs, particularly in hotter waters. The researchers advocate for conservation approaches at local, regional, and global scales to address this issue.
A study by Colorado State University found that indoor air contains more known human toxins than outdoor air, particularly when cooking or cleaning. The research, called HOMEChem, identified compounds like benzene, formaldehyde, and acrolein as potential health risks.
Researchers at Kobe University have developed a new method to synthesize fluoroalkyl carbonates, which are environmentally friendly alternatives to toxic precursors. These carbonates exhibit high reactivity and can be used to create pharmaceutical intermediates and other substances.
The EU aims to regulate electric vehicle batteries and stationary batteries with more than 2 kWh storage capacity. Researchers warn that design options may fall short of expectations and do harm.
Researchers suggest special blood vessels called 'retia mirabilia' reduce brain pressure pulses, preventing damage. Computer modeling supports theory, which could be applied to other animals and humans.
Researchers at Universiteit van Amsterdam use fluorescence microscopy and specialized molecules to study the transition from static to dynamic friction. They find that a slip wave propagates from the edge towards the center of the contact area just before sliding occurs.
Researchers have discovered a COVID-like virus in Russian bats that can infect human cells and is resistant to current vaccines. The new virus, named Khosta-2, poses a threat to global health and highlights the need for developing universal vaccines to protect against sarbecoviruses.
A new study from OHSU reveals that breakthrough infections following vaccination can provide a potent immune response against COVID-19, with increased protection for those 65 and older. The research found an equally strong immune response among people who received a third vaccine booster dose three months prior.
Researchers at the University of California San Diego developed microscopic robots called microrobots that can swim around in the lungs and deliver medication. The microrobots safely eliminated pneumonia-causing bacteria in mice, resulting in 100% survival rates, whereas untreated mice died within three days.
A novel fluorescent sensor has been developed to visualize the release of oxytocin, also known as the 'happy hormone', in living animals. The sensor, called MTRIA OT, allows for real-time measurement of extracellular oxytocin dynamics in the brain, revealing variability in OT levels dependent on behavioral and physical conditions.
A team of Swiss researchers has developed Aerial Additive Manufacturing (AAM), a system that uses flying drones to print materials for construction projects. The technology enables on-site manufacturing and building in difficult-to-access or dangerous locations, such as post-disaster relief construction and tall buildings.
A new study finds that forestation of Earth's vast drylands would do little to slow climate change, despite its potential for carbon sequestration. Smart dryland forestation can provide local benefits and potentially longer-term climate mitigation, but it cannot replace efforts to rapidly reduce emissions.
Brown algae's unique pigments have evolved through a complex genetic pathway, enabling them to harness more light energy than green plants. This discovery could lead to insights into fucoxanthin's health applications and improved photosynthetic efficiency for biofuels production.
A team of scientists from China published a perspective paper on the use of AI in skin diseases, highlighting its potential to assist clinicians. They propose several recommendations to improve AI-assisted diagnosis systems, including establishing a robust database and adapting algorithms to existing real-world databases.
Researchers use classical computers to make predictions about quantum systems, helping to solve physics and chemistry problems. Machine learning tools provide a bridge between the human world and quantum reality.
A recent study led by Drexel University's College of Nursing and Health Professions highlights the importance of nutrition and physical activity for both cancer patients and their caregivers. The research found similarities in beliefs about physical activity and barriers faced by both groups, including fatigue and time constraints.
A new project will explore the defence mechanisms of bacterial cells to stop the spread of drug-resistant genes. The team, led by Professor Edze Westra, will use a range of methods to understand how bacteria defend against mobile genetic elements (MGEs) that contribute to antimicrobial resistance.
Researchers have discovered how a common blood stem cell mutation, DNMT3A R882, alters gene activity and produces abnormal blood cells that increase cancer risk. The study found that the mutant cells produce more red blood cells and platelets, leading to higher cardiovascular disease risks.
A recent study has found that people who wear reusable contact lenses are nearly four times as likely to develop a rare sight-threatening eye infection. The study identified multiple factors that increase the risk of Acanthamoeba keratitis, including reusing lenses or wearing them overnight or in the shower.
Researchers reviewed mobile sensing designs, outcomes, and limitations to better understand its capacity for remote detection, longitudinal tracking, and exposure tracing. Despite technical and societal challenges, advances in data analytics and machine learning may improve data quality and scalability.
The Allen Institute is leading a global collaboration to create detailed atlases of the human brain and its cells. The project aims to understand brain function and structure, with applications in treating diseases of the brain.
A systematic review of studies on working mothers found that conflicting demands between job and parenting roles negatively impact mental health. Organizations can support employees by providing access to paid maternity leave, flexible work arrangements, and co-worker support.
Scientists at Stevens Institute of Technology have created a method to encode more information into a single photon, enabling faster and more powerful quantum communication tools. The twisty photon technology uses orbital angular momentum to boost the bandwidth of quantum communication systems.
Researchers from Trinity College Dublin created synthetic rocks to study rare earth element formation. The study reveals that fluids containing REEs replace common limestone via complex reactions, shedding light on the mechanisms of rock formation and industrial separation processes.
Researchers developed an engineered Cas13 system that detects SARS-CoV-2 in biological samples with high sensitivity and speed. The new platform outperforms traditional PCR testing, finding 10 out of 11 positives and no false positives in clinical samples.
A recent study found that former smokers who stick to a healthy lifestyle have a lower risk of dying from all causes, including cancer and heart and lung diseases. The study analyzed data from over 159,000 former smokers and found that maintaining a healthy lifestyle was associated with a 27% reduction in the risk of death.
A nationwide study of 1.2 million children in Norway suggests a possible association between COVID-19 and new-onset type 1 diabetes. The study found that children who contracted COVID-19 were more likely to develop type 1 diabetes, but the absolute risk remains low.
Researchers have found evidence for a massive, molten chamber within the ancient crust of South Africa, contradicting recent views on the existence and longevity of such structures. The discovery suggests that 'big tank' magma chambers may be more common than thought, with implications for our understanding of Earth's geological history.
A study by the Human Brain Project distinguished between two neurological conditions using state-of-the-art techniques. The results reveal important information about the mechanisms of consciousness disorders, including altered brain dynamics and reduced functional network activity.
A study published in Science found that more than one-tenth of the world's terrestrial genetic diversity may already be lost due to climate change and habitat destruction. This could have serious implications for species' ability to adapt to climate change, highlighting the need for urgent conservation efforts.
Developed by a University of Michigan-led team, the material controls infrared radiation flow and is stable at 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. It uses destructive interference to reflect infrared energy while letting shorter wavelengths pass through, potentially reducing heat waste in thermophotovoltaic cells.
Invasive house mice on Southeast Farallon Island consume and compete with native species for food, leading to significant impacts on the island ecosystem. The study found that mice are highly opportunistic eaters whose diets vary throughout the year in response to changes in food availability.
A team of neuroscientists at the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University aim to create an ultra-high resolution molecular atlas of the brain, enabling precise gene delivery to specific cell types. This project has the potential to revolutionize treatment of fatal brain diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Researchers found that using the Bazett formula to assess heartbeat rhythms can lead to inaccurate chemotherapy modifications, potentially affecting patient care. Standardizing formulas with electrocardiograms can reduce this risk and improve treatment outcomes.
Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have created a tool to identify 'safe harbor' sites for gene therapies, balancing safety and therapeutic expression. The tool uses genomic and epigenetic information to find regions with high variability among healthy individuals, reducing the risk of cancer or other problems.
A large study of former smokers found that those adhering to evidence-based recommendations for body weight, diet, physical activity, and alcohol intake had a significantly lower risk of death. The study included nearly 160,000 older U.S. adults and showed that better lifestyle habits can reduce mortality risk from various causes.
Scientists have found that the tectonic stress in Japan's Nankai subduction zone is less than expected, contradicting predictions of a major buildup of pent-up energy. The research suggests that the fault may not be as unstable as thought, but still requires further investigation and long-term monitoring.
Researchers found that bodies with lower BMI had decreased bacterial diversity, while those with higher BMI maintained constant diversity. The study suggests intrinsic factors like disease and medication load may impact microbial life in the surrounding soil.
Termite-mediated wood decay is significantly influenced by temperature, with termite presence and activity being more sensitive to thermal changes than microbial decomposition. As the planet warms, termites are expected to expand their range, becoming a crucial factor in global carbon cycling.
A new Stanford study found that widespread home electric vehicle charging at night could strain the US western grid by up to 25% by 2035. The researchers recommend daytime charging at work or public stations to reduce peak demand and greenhouse gas emissions.
New research shows that COVID-19 infections can lead to a range of neurological complications in the first year after infection, including strokes, cognitive decline, depression, anxiety, and migraine headaches. The study analyzed over 14 million medical records and found that COVID-19 survivors were at increased risk of developing the...
The current global monkeypox outbreak emphasizes the importance of a preventative One Health approach to minimize the risk of future emergence of known and unknown zoonotic pathogens. This is particularly crucial with the majority of people worldwide living in high population densities in cities, facilitating the spread of infectious d...
Researchers developed a faster, more affordable method to analyze serological data and predict COVID-19 wave behavior. The study showed that vaccination boosted immunity, with hybrid immunity producing higher protection levels. Antibody levels rose quickly after the first dose, especially in cities where case numbers were highest.
Researchers found that salen can effectively bind to SARS-CoV-2 proteins, preventing destruction and potentially leading to new treatments. The study, published in Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds, shows promise for developing effective coronavirus therapies.
Researchers applied a new integrated model linking surface water to groundwater to estimate water resources at high spatial resolution. The study found that irrigation increases atmospheric water loss but reduces groundwater support, especially during dry seasons.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH) developed technology that cuts power consumption in semiconductor devices in half by inserting platinum nanoparticles. The findings increased memory effect of the device by over a million times, allowing for longer operation with relatively low voltage.
Researchers used muon beams to analyze Asteroid Ryugu samples, finding essential elements like carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen. However, the oxygen abundance relative to silicon was 25% less than expected, suggesting contamination after atmospheric entry.
A new Scottish study found no direct association between COVID-19 infection and increased type 1 diabetes risk in adults and children under 35, suggesting testing explanations for the observed link. Increased testing around the time of diagnosis may be partly responsible for the observed increase.
A new study finds that climate change may decrease the percentage of blue lakes worldwide, leading to shifts in lake water color and ecosystem health. The research uses satellite images to determine a global inventory of lake colors, finding that green-brown lakes are more widespread than previously thought.
The Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai eruption injected at least 50 million metric tons of water vapor directly into the stratosphere, potentially increasing global stratospheric water vapor by more than 5%. This unprecedented event could lead to changes in atmospheric chemistry and dynamics, including stratospheric cooling and surface warming.
Researchers from the Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, have developed a novel polymer-based solution that enables easy delivery of large molecules to cells. By applying hypertonic solutions, they can induce osmotic stress and relax the cell membrane, allowing for precise control over molecule transfer.
Researchers at UCLA and UCSF will map gene regulatory regions to understand how genetic variants affect brain development. They aim to build a comprehensive catalog of cell types in the developing brain and identify specific cell types and genomic regions that mediate the risk of brain diseases.
Researchers analyzed changes in substance use disorder treatment admissions during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing significant disparities by sex and ethnicity. The study highlights the need for tailored treatment approaches to address these inequities and ensure equitable access to care.
Research from UVA Cancer Center finds that an unhealthy gut microbiome can trigger changes in normal breast tissue, facilitating cancer's spread to other parts of the body. The study suggests that targeting the gut-mast cell relationship could help prevent breast cancer recurrence and metastasis.
A University of Queensland study reveals low-income Brisbane suburbs have significantly fewer trees than middle- and higher-income areas, leaving residents vulnerable to the effects of climate change. The research highlights the need for increased investment in tree planting to address this environmental inequity.
A recent study found that sperm clustering in viscoelastic fluid offers three biological benefits: reduced direction changes, improved alignment, and increased safety from strong flows. This research may inform studies on infertility and provide better selection of sperm for assisted-reproduction technologies.
A team of researchers from NIST, UW-Madison, and Argonne National Laboratory identified key compositions that enable consistent 3D-printing of 17-4 PH stainless steel with favorable properties. The new findings could help producers cut costs and increase manufacturing flexibility.
A finger-prick blood test developed by Cardiff University researchers can identify individuals most at risk of being reinfected with COVID-19. The test measures T cells that recognize SARS-CoV-2 and shows those with a stronger response are best protected from the virus.
A recent study published in Communications Earth & Environment found that stable oxygen levels in the ocean, rather than high oxygen levels alone, triggered the greatest increase in animal species in Earth's history. This discovery may help scientists preserve marine ecosystems and understand how to control ocean deoxygenation.
A Swansea University-led study found that parents with higher health literacy were more likely to get their children tested for COVID-19. The research also identified factors associated with increased likelihood of positive test results, including deprived areas and physical activity levels.
Researchers developed a conductive and electrocatalytic mediator for Li-S batteries by modulating the MoSe2 functional plane through doping-defect engineering. This approach improves lithium polysulfide adsorption, reducing the shuttle effect and enhancing overall battery performance.
Long-term monitoring data reveals previously undetected diurnal patterns in narwhal behavior, including changes in surface activity and diving patterns influenced by sea ice and squid migration. The study's method can be applied to assess the challenges faced by narwhals and other Arctic animals due to climate change.
Monon Bioventures has received a grant to develop a novel glioblastoma treatment using armed natural killer cells. The treatment, created by Purdue University researcher Sandro Matosevic, shows promise in preclinical proof of concept and aims to manufacture the therapeutic for clinical studies.
Researchers have successfully created dopaminergic neurons directly from the skin of patients with Parkinson's disease, preserving aged characteristics and cellular defects. This breakthrough allows for modeling PD-related neuronal defects in a larger cohort of patients, aiming to identify disease causes and potential therapies.
A new study reveals that the retia mirabilia in cetacean brains help protect against blood pressure pulses generated by swimming. The findings suggest a previously unknown function for the retia mirabilia in protecting the delicate cerebral vasculature from damage.
Researchers developed an AI-based screening method that models drug and target protein interactions using natural language processing techniques. The technique achieved high accuracy in identifying promising drug candidates, which can accelerate the exploration of new medicines and repurpose existing ones.
A Rutgers study analyzing data from 9,174 households found that chronic conditions like asthma and heart disease significantly contribute to medical debt. The study revealed that medical debt affects middle- and higher-income households as well, making it a society-wide issue.
Researchers have developed a new method to generate surface Hall circulating current and topological magnetoelectric response in ferromagnetic axion insulators. This discovery provides a promising platform for experimentally realizing the topological magnetoelectric effect.
A scientific review found that cold water swimming can reduce 'bad' body fat and improve insulin sensitivity. However, the health benefits are uncertain due to limited study quality and variability in participant profiles.
The UK's Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council has awarded £19 million to five world-class teams investigating bold ideas in bioscience. These projects will advance our understanding of fundamental rules of life, with potential implications for agriculture, health, biotechnology, and the green economy.
A new University of Toronto study finds an additional 514 deaths should be added to the official Hurricane Maria death toll due to displaced Puerto Ricans in the US. The study suggests undercounting and highlights the need for equitable disaster preparedness and cross-jurisdiction data sharing.
A new international study reveals termites' pivotal role in wood decay, contributing to the earth's carbon cycle, and their sensitivity to temperature and rainfall. Termites may increasingly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions with climate change.
Researchers warn that pharmaceutical companies' pursuit of psychedelic treatments threatens Indigenous and counterculture traditions. Magic mushrooms have spiritual significance for many people, but corporations seeking patents and monopolies on these medicines are being criticized for their approach.
A new analysis of nutrient omission trial data reveals that balanced fertilizer application can significantly improve maize and rice yields in sub-Saharan Africa. The study found that doubling current yields through balanced fertilization with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can lead to more consistent results across regions.
A new study examines convenience-store robberies, finding that employees on the sales floor are more likely to be injured when robbed. The research suggests revised safety protocols could mitigate this risk and improve employee health and safety.
A recent study found that only 35% of eighth and ninth graders in the child welfare system have received information on birth control, and even fewer know how to access it. The study highlights a significant gap in sexual and reproductive health education for this vulnerable population.
A global consortium study aims to understand the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on the brain, with researchers evaluating over 1,000 participants worldwide. The study, led by UT Health San Antonio, uses advanced brain imaging and neuropsychological tests to assess cognitive function and identify potential causes of long-term brain changes.
University of Queensland researchers have discovered metal compounds with antifungal properties, showing promise in developing new treatments for resistant fungal infections. The study found that one in five metal compounds displayed activity, with low toxicity in preliminary tests.
A literature review suggests a significant increase in monkeypox cases globally, with human-to-human transmission now the primary mode of transmission. The study highlights the need for improved surveillance and investigation into potential risk factors and treatments.
Researchers from NAU and University of Washington collaborate to create a safe and effective vaccine for Valley Fever, a fungal infection spreading due to climate change. The project aims to address the growing threat of emerging epidemics and prevent disease through vaccination.
The study estimated vaccine effectiveness against symptomatic Delta and Omicron infections and severe outcomes. Vaccines showed moderate protection against these variants' serious consequences.
An international team found that more than 90% of fine aerosol particles detrimental to health and the climate originate from human-made sources. The study revealed high concentrations of nitrogen oxides, exceeding WHO guidelines, and linked air pollution to an annual excess mortality rate of 745 people per 100,000 in the region.
Mayo Clinic researchers identified critical genomic changes associated with abiraterone acetate/prednisone resistance in advanced prostate cancer. An 11-gene drug panel predicted a worse prognosis for a subset of patients, and whole-exome sequencing data revealed mechanisms of acquired resistance.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center have identified a gene marker that may lead to more effective precision treatment for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. The protein METTL16 is correlated with accumulated DNA damage and suppresses DNA repair, suggesting it as a potential biomarker for PARPi treatment.
A study from University of California, Davis, and Harvard Medical School reveals multiple new sirtuins in early branching animals like jellyfish, sea sponges, and sea anemones. These proteins are involved in metabolism and DNA repair, playing a crucial role in the unique longevity strategies of these animals.
Researchers have cloned minipigs with a mutation in the SORL1 gene, which is linked to early onset Alzheimer's disease. The pigs can be used to test new drugs and understand the early changes in brain cells that occur before dementia sets in.
Researchers used Raman spectroscopy to identify and analyze Escherichia coli persister cells, finding they have enhanced metabolic activities despite being in a dormant state. This new understanding could lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
Researchers have developed high-performance three-dimensional porous carbon-based materials for efficient electromagnetic wave absorption. These materials, which include graphene and biomass-derived materials, offer improved conductivity and stability while minimizing density.
A study reveals that global warming will impact major astronomical observatories worldwide, increasing temperature and atmospheric water content by 2050. This could lead to reduced observing time and quality in ground-based astronomy.
Researchers have discovered that two distantly related RNA viruses perform chemical choreography in strikingly similar ways, forming a symmetrical icosahedral shell. This finding has potential applications in improving pharmaceutical delivery and engineering, as well as understanding protein folding mechanisms.
A team from UNIGE and HUG identified a protein regulation mechanism that reduces melanoma cells' capacity to adapt and resist treatment. They found that targeting this mechanism with an enzyme inhibitor reduces therapeutic resistance in all melanoma cells.
A team of researchers developed a comprehensive guide to making fieldwork safer and more equitable for students from diverse backgrounds. The document addresses risks such as mobility challenges, cultural sensitivities, and structural inequality, providing resources for leaders to create inclusive teams.
A study found an association between air pollution exposure during pregnancy and the first 5 years of life with altered white matter structural connectivity in children's brains. Exposure to fine particulate matter was also linked to changes in brain volume, particularly in preadolescents.
New research finds that purple needlegrass thrives in areas with sheep grazing, especially during wet weather, creating space for new growth and reducing competition from non-native grasses. The study's findings aim to inform effective management strategies for this long-lived species and its potential role in mitigating climate change.
Admissions to drug treatment programs declined by nearly one-quarter in the US during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, with significant declines observed among people of color. The study suggests that this trend may be linked to the recent surge in drug overdose deaths.
Research finds strong association between enterovirus infection and type 1 diabetes; individuals with T1D eight times more likely to have an enterovirus infection than others. Vaccines aimed at preventing enterovirus infection may help prevent T1D development.