The new initiative aims to create more equitable digital financial services, expanding access to mobile money and other services for low-income earners and marginalized communities. The Upanzi Network will leverage research and academia across the continent to develop secure and cost-effective open-source digital technologies.
Researchers analyzed over 31,000 participants and 1,200 paintings to find that people prefer color compositions with unique statistical properties, unlike natural scenes. These findings challenge the 'matching-to-nature' hypothesis and offer insights into why we're attracted to certain color schemes.
A quality improvement project implemented by primary care providers increased the use of telehealth consultations among military veterans experiencing homelessness. The proportion of video visits doubled from 4.8% to 10.3% over 16 weeks, continuing to rise during the following month.
A new study by Human Brain Project researchers unravels the mechanisms of psychostimulants like methylphenidate on attention and learning. The findings suggest that dopamine enhances task-relevant cortical signals, explaining variability in drug's cognitive effects across individuals.
A new study published in JAMA highlights the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines, boosters, and prior infection in reducing the risk of future infection, hospitalization, and death. The study shows that primary vaccination and booster doses provide strong protection against severe outcomes, even after a year and a half.
A recent clinical trial found that patients with advanced melanoma who received immunotherapy first had a 20% higher two-year overall survival rate compared to those who initially got targeted therapies. The study also showed improved progression-free survival rates for those on immunotherapy.
Tax-exempt hospitals in the US have largely improved their charity care policies since the onset of COVID-19, with clearer eligibility criteria being implemented. However, regulatory attention is needed to address ongoing restrictions and issues with charity care.
Researchers identified at least 55 independent strains of the Delta substrain AY.29 in 20 countries, with 41 potential links to Olympic and Paralympic participants. The study analyzed genomes from over 6 million international samples, uncovering the spread of the variant during the Tokyo Olympics.
Researchers at Newcastle University found that probiotics do not give uniform results in premature babies. The study's findings highlight the need for a personalized medicine approach to provide customized probiotics according to an analysis of their gut flora and other factors.
Researchers developed a metasurface device with three working modes, exploiting nanostructures to manipulate light and create holographic or structural-color nanoprinting images. The device offers two layers of security for anticounterfeiting measures, providing a simple yet effective approach to fight against counterfeiting.
The TTUHSC team will provide no-cost colorectal cancer screening and colonoscopies to underinsured and uninsured people living in South Plains region counties. The FIT-STOP program aims to find signs of early-stage colorectal cancer to prevent treatment needs, leveraging existing relationships with partners.
A UTHealth Houston study found regional disparities in cancer screening rates tied to social vulnerability, with lower rates in more vulnerable counties. The study analyzed 3,141 US counties and discovered significant differences in breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screenings.
Researchers developed a novel three-core optical fiber sensor to accurately measure both the magnitude and direction of spine curvature. The sensor offers advantages like low cost, high sensitivity, and small size, making it a promising tool for doctors to diagnose problems in spine curvature.
Current AI models are restricted by a lack of experience in real-world environments, despite achieving significant advancements in virtual settings. Researchers are now exploring ways to bridge this gap with foundation models that can operate in physical spaces.
A new study by Grant Brown and Braeden Donaldson found that juvenile convict cichlids exposed to high-risk alarm cues have brains 16% larger compared to low-risk groups, with noticeable increases in olfactory and optic bulbs. The brains revert to normal size after removal of the alarm cues.
A blood test taken at the time of Covid-19 infection could predict who is most likely to develop long Covid. Researchers identified a 'signature' in protein levels that predicted persistent symptoms after one year.
A three-year project led by Vijay Joshi aims to overcome challenges in organic spinach production, including nutrient acquisition and abiotic stresses. The research will focus on developing varieties with improved nutritional profiles and exploring the role of beneficial microbes.
A study by the Max Planck Institute for Human Development and the Technical University of Dresden investigates why many people choose not to read their Stasi files. The researchers found that the majority of reasons for deliberate ignorance include concerns about social relationships, mistrust in information accuracy, and a desire to a...
A study identified orphan genes in Wild sugarcane that may play a significant role in its stress resistance properties. The researchers believe these genes could be responsible for the species' exceptional resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses.
Researchers from the University of South Australia found that households with solar panels and batteries can significantly reduce their annual electricity costs when charging electric vehicles. With off-peak charging, EV owners can save up to 39.6% on energy costs, making it a more affordable option for environmentally-friendly driving.
A recent study published in The Lancet HIV found that individuals with viral suppression through antiretroviral therapy (ART) medications can live longer and experience less disability compared to those with unsuppressed HIV. This research highlights the critical importance of maintaining support for HIV treatment programs to ensure op...
A study of 3,141 US counties found that counties with higher social vulnerability had lower rates of recommended breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screenings. The findings suggest that addressing social determinants of health may be crucial for improving cancer screening rates.
A cohort study of nearly 200,000 people found that intentional weight loss reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes for those who are overweight or obese. However, for lean individuals, weight loss attempts are associated with longer-term weight gain and higher risks of type 2 diabetes.
Researchers used advanced imaging techniques to understand the structure of bacterial propellers, which are made of a single protein. The study reveals that bacteria push themselves forward by coiling these appendages into corkscrew shapes, and that similar structures have evolved independently in archaea.
Research reveals that symbiotic bacteria, Burkholderia gladioli, produce antifungal compound lagriamide to protect Lagria beetles' eggs, larvae, and pupae from fungal infections. The bacterial community remains intact during molting stages, providing crucial defense against pathogens.
A Cornell research team synthesized 16 types of rock surfaces that may form on exoplanets, providing a tool to decipher their composition. The study's findings offer clues to early planetary evolution and the chemical makeup of distant planets.
Patients requiring emergency dialysis before or after surgery are at increased risk of death and functional decline. Notably, patients undergoing high-risk surgeries like esophagectomy/gastrectomy and heart surgery have significantly higher mortality rates.
The Leducq Foundation has awarded $7.5 million to UVA researchers, led by Mete Civelek, to investigate sex differences in atherosclerosis and $8 million to Coleen McNamara to advance immunotherapy for cardiovascular disease. These projects aim to improve understanding of heart disease and develop new treatments.
Recent media releases from UK government agencies and NHS organizations lack objectivity and provide unbalanced information on prescription-only medicines. The Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin expresses concerns over the use of hyperbolic language and omission of key information about potential harms and benefits.
Researchers found that knocking out TXNIP in alpha cells improves diabetes-associated hyperglycemia and hyperglucagonemia. This discovery suggests a new potential treatment for Type 1 diabetes.
A new study reveals that wood releases low levels of formaldehyde at room temperature due to a lignin-mediated Fenton reaction. Researchers have developed an effective, low-cost method to mitigate this release by mixing antioxidants and chelators with wood or spraying them on surfaces.
A new international study finds that dairy cows and their calves experience worse welfare than beef cattle. The researchers' assessment of bovine welfare risks is based on expert opinions from around the world.
Researchers found that discounted prices were 1.5 times higher for human medications than for pet medications, affecting over 60% of medications.
The American Ornithological Society's Ornithology and Ornithological Applications journals introduce two new article types: Insights and Monographs. Insights focus on high-quality visual media that represent natural history discoveries, while Monographs document complex studies beyond standard Research Articles.
New research shows that elevated carbon dioxide levels in forests in the US have increased wood volume by up to 20%, making trees more efficient at absorbing carbon dioxide. This phenomenon is called carbon fertilization and can help mitigate climate change, potentially reducing costs associated with mitigation efforts.
Researchers at the University of South Australia are using new technologies to speed up blood cancer diagnosis and treatment. The project aims to identify genetic variants that cause cancer, enabling clinicians to provide targeted treatments and improve patient management.
Researchers studying Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) made a significant discovery that the disease begins in myoblasts, which are crucial for muscle growth and regeneration. This new understanding could lead to delayed disease progression and extended patient lifespan by targeting these cells from birth.
Researchers found that 3.1% of Ontario family physicians stopped working in the first six months of the pandemic, with higher rates among older physicians and those with smaller patient panels. The rate of physician stoppages rose from 1.6% between 2010-2019 to 3% in 2020, exacerbating Canada's primary care physician shortage.
A new European study confirms that banning menthol cigarettes leads to increased smoking cessation rates, with 26.1% of menthol smokers quitting compared to 14.1% of non-menthol smokers. The study also finds that a proposed US ban on menthol cigarettes could lead to over 1.3 million quitters.
Krembil Brain Institute researchers propose a new mechanistic model for Alzheimer's as an autoimmune condition that attacks the brain. This new approach challenges traditional views on brain diseases and opens the door to innovative therapies.
A novel study in Virginia uses state all-payer claims data to accurately assess and predict future primary care workforce needs. The approach differentiates physicians with primary care training from those who practice true primary care, providing a more accurate estimate of U.S. primary care capacity.
Researchers uncovered crucial interactions between XPA and RPA proteins in NER, essential for repairing UV-damaged DNA. These findings hold promise for improving cancer therapy outcomes by targeting the NER pathway.
The NIH's MorPhiC program aims to systematically investigate the function of every human gene, focusing on protein-coding genes. By using cell culture models and null alleles, researchers will develop a catalog of molecular and cellular consequences of gene inactivation, shedding light on vital biological roles and disease mechanisms.
A 518-million-year-old fossilized worm named Wufengella has shed light on the evolution of three major animal groups: brachiopods, phoronids, and bryozoans. The discovery reveals that these ancient animals shared a common ancestor with segmented worms.
A One Health Clinic in Seattle provides concurrent primary health care and veterinary care to homeless youth and their pets, addressing the human-animal bond to increase access to healthcare. The clinic offers a free toolkit for starting similar clinics in the US or Canada.
A new study found that certain pre-existing conditions have a more significant impact on COVID-19 outcomes than previously thought. Researchers developed a novel prediction model, PDeathDx, which outperformed conventional models and identified degenerative neurological diseases, dementia, and severe disabilities as major risk factors.
Researchers found that individuals with more isolated executive control networks were more sensitive to the effects of stress, highlighting the importance of better coping strategies. Combining psychological factors and neuroimaging measures provided an innovative approach to understanding the impact of COVID-19 on mental health.
Research from SMU's Locomotor Performance Lab shows that men have a relatively small advantage over women in shorter sprint distances. The study analyzed data from sanctioned international athletic competitions and found that sex differences in sprint running performance increase with event distance.
Researchers confirm that turtles rehabilitated in the aftermath of the Kalamazoo River oil spill had high long-term survival rates, with up to 11 years post-spill showing nearly imperceptible differences in monthly survival probability. The study's findings suggest that rehabilitation efforts increased the monthly survival probability ...
Research by Harvard Medical School professor Zirui Song finds that the economic cost of firearm injuries in the US is over $557 billion annually. This includes quality-of-life losses among those injured and their families, as well as indirect costs to employers and health insurers.
A new Perspective piece calls for a radical response to the climate crisis in science, particularly in agriculture and food systems. The authors emphasize the need for transformative adaptation that prioritizes social equity and brings together all stakeholders.
Researchers at NJIT have developed a new lab technique that could speed up drug discovery and development of therapeutic proteins and vaccines. The electrochemistry-based approach allows for safety and quality testing to be done at a fraction of the time required by conventional methods.
A research team at POSTECH and Sungkyunkwan University has developed an ultrahigh refractive index metamaterial that maximizes light-matter interaction. The material recorded the highest-ever refractive index of 7.8 in visible and near-infrared regions, enabling strong reflection of specific wavelengths.
A Rutgers University study found that young women who reported frequent binge drinking during the COVID-19 pandemic were more likely to become infected with COVID-19. Researchers identified patterns of substance use among young Black and white women and associated them with COVID-19 impacts on health and personal finances.
A mixed methods study found that high-performing facilitators in a large-scale quality improvement initiative showed significant impact on clinical outcomes, with 75% or more of their assigned practices demonstrating improvements. The research analyzed data from 162 facilitators supporting 1,630 primary care practices across 12 states.
The use of voice control smart devices in children may impede critical thinking, empathy, and compassion. Devices can't teach children how to behave politely and lack non-verbal communication skills.
A new study found that edge waves and the short continental shelf contributed to the prolonged duration of the tsunami. The researchers used strong motion, GNSS, satellite, and tide gauge data to model the earthquake and learn more about the tsunami's behavior in Acapulco Bay.
The global survey highlights intense exposure to extreme heat, water scarcity, and flooding due to climate change, with cities in developing countries facing significant infrastructure gaps. City leaders also report challenges related to private automobiles, biking, and walking, as well as budgetary concerns and mental health issues.
The fasting-mimicking diet reduced Alzheimer's pathology in mice, including amyloid beta and tau protein levels, and showed less brain inflammation. Mice on the diet also performed better on cognitive tests, with some showing improved performance comparable to non-Alzheimer's mice.
The article reviews microwave photonics techniques, including signal generation, filtering, and beamforming. It discusses the use of parity-time symmetry for high-performance oscillation and recent progress in integrated microwave photonics, including materials systems and application-specific photonic integrated circuits.
A recent study published in Aging-US found that feeling lonely, unhappy, or hopeless increases one's biological age more than smoking. The research used digital models of aging to analyze the effects of various factors on aging rates, revealing a significant correlation between mental health and accelerated aging.
A Rutgers study reveals that the US has a higher rate of fatal police shootings (3.1 per million) compared to similarly developed countries like France and Australia. The study suggests that police training duration and content play a significant role in determining lethal policing outcomes.
Research suggests that regularly exercising with weights is associated with a lower risk of death from any cause, excluding cancer. A weekly combination of weights and aerobic exercise appears to have an additive effect on mortality risk.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a technique to control quantum states of light in a three-dimensional cavity, creating the long-sought cubic phase state. The breakthrough enables full control over quantum mechanical systems, paving the way for efficient error correction in quantum computers.
Research found that almost 83% of interruptions were cooperative, preserving interaction flow and allowing physicians to establish common ground. The type of interruption was predicted by role, gender, and consultation phase, with male doctors more likely to make intrusive interruptions than female doctors.
Reduced kidney function and increased urine albumin excretion are associated with brain volume reduction in regions typically affected by Alzheimer's disease and other dementia etiologies. Cognitive decline is common in patients with kidney disease, and this study provides new insights into the etiology and localization of brain damage.
Researchers have developed a new type of low-cost selenium solar cell using tellurium alloy, which improves efficiency by expanding the absorption spectrum. The Se-1-x Te-x alloy system has shown promise in achieving high performance, with efficiencies over 1.85% achieved after nine months in air.
A recent study from North Carolina State University found that employees' relationships with coworkers significantly impact their sense of purpose and drive at work. The researchers discovered that employees who receive advice and support from their peers are more likely to feel a strong connection to the company.
Researchers have reconstructed the genome of the common ancestor of all mammals, revealing key features such as 19 autosomal chromosomes and 38 sex chromosomes. The study provides insights into the evolutionary stability of gene order and orientation on chromosomes over millions of years.
A CUNY SPH team will design and implement programmatic strategies to improve social environments in newly renovated public parks, leveraging human-centered design and community engagement to enhance community-level health outcomes and reduce health disparities.
The NCCN Annual Congress on Hematologic Malignancies will address key findings on chronic lymphocytic leukemia management and CAR T-cells in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The event also features updates on immunotherapies in multiple myeloma treatment.
A study reveals critical weaknesses in current tree-planting strategies in US cities, suggesting ways to build more resilient and diverse ecosystems. Urban forests provide numerous health benefits, but few have assessed city tree biodiversity.
A new study finds that many major US cities lack clear guidelines for safe lead levels in urban soils, where food is grown. This can lead to exposure risks for consumers, particularly children. Researchers call for federal standards and better access to information to support safer urban agriculture practices.
A new study from York University's Faculty of Health found that repeatedly regaining weight should be viewed as practice, not failure. The research suggests that achieving long-term success in weight management requires multiple attempts using different approaches.
Researchers found that small amounts of development can positively impact bee species in a given area, revealing the importance of forest remnants and blended landscapes. The study discovered 111 species, representing 20% of known Georgia bee species, and provided a framework for future research to assist in bee conservation.
A study of over 2,700 twin pairs found that adolescent drinking can lead to long-term physical health issues and life dissatisfaction in midlife. The research suggests that prevention strategies targeting teens with alcohol misuse may help mitigate these consequences.
Researchers are studying the interaction between obesity and nitric oxide synthase in triple-negative breast cancer, aiming to develop a new treatment strategy. Another team is investigating the role of NHE6 protein in multiple myeloma resistance to daratumumab treatment, with the goal of improving therapy outcomes for patients.
Mathematical models suggest that only 1 in 5 COVID-19 cases were counted worldwide, resulting in an estimated 600 million to 2.4 billion actual cases globally. The wide range of estimated cases highlights the problems with accuracy of reported numbers due to data tampering, inconsistent reporting, and lack of uniformity.
UK researchers recommend recruiting highly skilled scientists and volunteer staff to provide surge capacity for testing capacity. The system aims to hit the ground running in case of future outbreaks.
A new study from Washington University in St. Louis finds that tighter school security measures are detrimental to academic performance, reducing test scores in math and increasing suspensions across all students. The burden of increased surveillance falls disproportionately on Black students, exacerbating racial inequities in education.
A study from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that nearly half of childhood cancer survivors experience multiple simultaneous symptoms of moderate to severe intensity. Health inequity issues, such as lack of education or insurance, were associated with a higher risk of experiencing severe symptom burden.
Researchers engineered immune cells to control two major complications of leukemia treatment: graft-vs-host disease and cancer relapse. The approach, using a protein called OX40, showed promise in animal models, protecting against both conditions without severely impairing the immune system.
A new study finds that even a modest temperature increase of 1.5°C will spell serious consequences in India, China, Ethiopia, Ghana, Brazil, and Egypt, with droughts projected to last longer than two years in some countries. Limiting warming to 1.5°C could greatly benefit all six countries, but meeting the Paris Accords is crucial to r...
Researchers in Cell Reports study neuronal responses to bright and dark surfaces, finding that large bright surfaces activate both light-ON and light-OFF neurons, increasing the combined response with surface brightness and size. This challenges the long-standing assumption that only surface edges drive strong cortical responses.
Researchers at WVU investigate performance of low-energy treatment facilities, assessing nutrient removal and potential environmental impacts. The team aims to create an interactive map with search filters and develop a user manual for modeling lagoon performance.
A new catalytic process using lignin could enable the production of 100% sustainable aviation fuel, reducing carbon emissions from the airline industry. The researchers successfully reduced the oxygen content of lignin to less than a half-percent, making it suitable for use as a jet fuel blendstock.
A new study found that medical cannabis users reported significant improvements in pain management, social functioning, and overall health. The majority of participants were able to stop or reduce their opioid use, with some experiencing a five-fold decrease in hydrocodone prescriptions.
Researchers discovered that macrophages eliminate stressed stem cells with high levels of reactive oxygen species, while healthy cells are amplified. The study found that a specific marker, calreticulin, acts as an 'eat me' signal for stressed cells.
A new type of spectrometer capable of simultaneous remote sensing of atmospheric methane, water vapor, and nitrous oxide has been developed. The spectrometer uses a micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) modulator to replace traditional mechanical choppers, making the system more stable and compact.
A systematic review of randomized controlled trials found that calcium supplementation significantly improves bone mineral density and content in people under 35. The benefits were most pronounced in those aged 20-35 years, suggesting a potential new window for intervention to prevent osteoporosis later in life.
A diet rich in guar gum fibre has been shown to limit inflammation and delay the onset of multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms in mice. The study found that only guar gum significantly reduced MS-like symptoms, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic approach for humans.
The article highlights the need for comprehensive, real-time action data to address firearm injuries. It also explores the connection between violence and the carceral state, as well as the impact of state firearm laws on mortality and morbidity rates.
A study found that selective abortion of female fetuses is more pronounced among Indian diaspora, with lower sex ratios compared to natural range. The practice also affects Chinese diaspora, particularly in third pregnancies, where females are aborted less often than males.
Researchers discover that male spotted lanternflies are strongly attracted to the smell of honeydew produced by male conspecifics, emitting specific sex-attractant profiles. This finding may lead to the development of new pest management tools to reduce the population and spread of this invasive species.
Researchers discovered that FOXA1, a cancer-causing gene, regulates alternative splicing in prostate cancer, influencing disease relapse and patient survival. The study identified specific splice variants linked to cancer recurrence, which could serve as markers for disease relapse and potential drug targets.
A University at Buffalo-led study suggests the huntingtin protein is involved in neuronal injury and regeneration. The research found that HTT moves from the injury site to the cell body, carrying components necessary for survival.
Research from the University of Exeter found that farmers and auction operators believed putting health hubs in livestock marts helped break down barriers to seeking support. The study also revealed that stoicism, fear of being judged, and lack of availability were significant deterrents for farmers.
A study of over 15,000 individual animals found that ungulates' diets and mating strategies are linked to stress risk. Animals without constant access to food are prone to behavioral problems. The research highlights the importance of providing suitable conditions, including food and social organization, for improved welfare.
A recent study found that cattle grazing with virtual fencing can create effective wildfire fuel breaks on sagebrush landscapes, reducing the risk of devastating wildfires. The technology uses collars to communicate with GPS and reception towers, forming a virtual fence to manage livestock distribution.
Researchers have devised a method to determine the impact of climate change on local renewable energy supply and variability. The study found that increased weather unpredictability can lead to blackouts if backup power sources are not in place.
A new predictive biomarker, RNF43 mutations, has been identified as a significant predictor of response to anti-BRAF/EGFR combinatory therapy in patients with microsatellite stable BRAF V600E metastatic colorectal cancer. This biomarker is associated with improved progression-free and overall survival rates.
The Journalists in Aging Fellows Program has selected 16 new fellows to produce in-depth aging-focused stories or series in 2023. The projects span concerns such as the financial burden of breast cancer, mental-health challenges of long COVID, and issues facing LGBTQ+ older adults.
The MEMQuD project investigates quantum effects in memristive devices, which could lead to breakthroughs in AI, cryptography, and computation. Researchers analyze fundamentals and applications of quantized conductivity phenomena at room temperature.
The USPSTF recommends screening for syphilis in asymptomatic, nonpregnant individuals who have ever been sexually active. Syphilis cases increased from a record low in 2000 to 11.9 cases per 100,000 population in 2019.
Researchers found that shadows on single cells or parallel-connected cells result in similar output current decrease ratios to sunlight. However, series-connected cells experience excess power loss and temperature rise, leading to further degradation.
Researchers at MedUni Vienna studied Covid-19's impact on lungs and colon, identifying novel biomarkers and treatment strategies. SARS-CoV-2 infections evoke different molecular mechanisms in pulmonary and gastrointestinal manifestations.
Researchers recreated primordial seawater containing phosphate in the lab, suggesting that seawater could be a major source of this essential element. This finding has implications for understanding the origins of life on Earth and potentially even beyond our planet.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University found that chronic daily stress was beneficial against a second injury, inducing formation of immune cells called TLOs which protected against intestinal inflammation. The study also revealed an association between stressed mice and increased production of cytokines IL-23 and IL-22.
Scientists analyze environmental data to find temperature, rainfall, and pastureland areas as key factors contributing to viral transmission. The researchers project that areas hospitable to Lassa virus spread may extend into Central and East Africa in the next several decades.