Researchers found that maternal overweight compromises the placenta's antiviral response, weakening its ability to protect the fetus. The study suggests that adequate antenatal care is crucial in preventing complications from Zika infection.
A phase 2 clinical trial found improved neurocognitive outcomes and comparable survival rates for children with craniopharyngioma treated with proton therapy compared to photon therapy. The study highlights the therapeutic advantage of proton therapy in sparing normal brain tissue and reducing collateral effects.
Researchers at the Institute of Industrial Science at The University of Tokyo have found that phonons in isotopically pure carbon can behave like a fluid, allowing for faster heat conduction. This phenomenon, known as phonon Poiseuille flow, has implications for cooling sensitive computer processors and improving efficiency in electron...
Researchers have pinpointed a new neurological target, the mesencephalic locomotor region, to improve walking recovery in people with spinal cord injuries. Electrical stimulation of this area has shown promise in animal models, and a clinical trial is underway.
Researchers at IIT developed a biodegradable seed-robot that can change shape in response to humidity, inspired by the seed structure of a South African geranium. The robot, part of the European project I-Seed, has potential applications in environmental monitoring and reforestation.
Researchers used computer simulations to understand the formation of new subduction zones and the development of the Caribbean large igneous province. The study found that simultaneous subduction of two plates led to a major mantle flow, triggering the formation of a plume and extensive magmatic activity.
A new study from researchers at the University of Cambridge found that deadly heatwaves fueled by climate change made almost 90 percent of Indians more vulnerable to public health issues, food shortages, and increased risks of death. The study suggests that India's national Climate Vulnerability Indicator underestimates the main risks ...
A novel process makes paper bags stronger, reusable, and biodegradable, reducing global-warming potential. The study also explores the use of torrefied paper as a source for biofuel production, offering a sustainable solution to plastic waste.
Researchers at Nagoya University have synthesized methylene-bridged [n]cycloparaphenylenes ([n]MCPPs) with varying ring sizes, exhibiting unique properties such as fluorescence and paratropic belt currents. The discovery has significant implications for studying magnetic properties of aromatic nanobelts.
A study of 15,296 men found that a healthy Mediterranean or Prudent diet had no impact on prostate cancer risk, while an unhealthy Western diet may increase the risk of aggressive tumors. The findings suggest avoiding Western-style diet products and adopting Mediterranean diet habits could help prevent aggressive prostate cancer.
Researchers established quantitative relationships between coals and evapoerites with temperature and precipitation during the Phanerozoic. Coals formed predominantly in equatorial regions, while evaporites formed in subtropical dry zones.
Researchers at UIUC have conducted the first variance-based sensitivity analysis of Lambda-type quantum memory devices, considering effects of random device noise and slow experimental drift. The study informs experimental design and enables others to perform similar analyses.
Researchers from Karolinska Institutet and the Max Planck Institute have identified a new mechanism for DNA folding, revealing how the Smc5/6 complex regulates chromosomal organization. This discovery provides new insights into normal development and disease prevention.
A parasite identified as Philaster apodigitiformis has been found responsible for the massive die-off of long-spined sea urchins in the Caribbean Sea. The loss of these vital herbivores threatens coral reef health and balance, with devastating consequences for marine ecosystems.
Researchers developed an electronic biosensor using DNA aptamers to detect biomarkers in whole blood samples. The biosensor successfully detected clinically relevant levels of a marker protein for cardiovascular disease without further sample preparation.
Researchers found that metal-poor stars, with fewer heavy elements, emit less intense ultraviolet radiation into space. This allows their planets to form a protective ozone layer, making conditions more life-friendly. The study suggests that as the universe ages, it becomes increasingly unfavourable for complex life on new planets.
A new study published in PLOS Medicine found that the sugary drink tax in Oakland reduced purchases by 26.8%, leading to improved health and significant cost savings. The researchers estimated that consuming fewer SSBs added 94 quality-adjusted life-years per 10,000 residents and saved the city over $100,000 in healthcare costs.
A recent study found that humans process social situations similarly, with an extensive neural network processing various social information. The study identified main dimensions of social perception, including antisocial behavior, sexual or affiliative behavior, and communication.
Researchers boosted multi-hole water oxidation catalysis on hematite photoanodes using UV excitation, increasing surface holes and improving PEC activity by one order of magnitude.
A new study by Brigham researchers found that 27 high-selling brand-name drugs provided little added clinical benefits despite high costs. The results suggest that Medicare can negotiate prices based on the added benefits of these drugs.
A team of researchers at Penn State has developed a first rapid test for mpox, a disease with symptoms similar to smallpox, which can be detected within minutes. The test uses nanomaterials heterostructures to detect trace amounts of genetic material in biological samples.
Researchers have discovered a new phase of matter where a quantum liquid becomes solid when heated. The breakthrough was achieved through a collaboration between experimentalists and theoretical physicists, who developed a model that explains the formation of a quantum crystal at finite temperatures.
A new study suggests that large animals are disadvantaged due to their limited traveling speeds, which can be attributed to their inability to effectively dissipate excess heat generated by their muscles. This limitation leads to slower travel speeds compared to medium-sized animals.
A new study found a strong association between the prevalence of prescription stimulant therapy for ADHD and rates of prescription stimulant misuse among middle and high school students. Schools with higher numbers of students on stimulant therapy had significantly higher rates of misused stimulants, highlighting the need for education...
A qualitative case series study provides the first published examples of medication deprescribing protocols for patients with type 2 diabetes. The results highlight the importance of de-escalating glucose-lowering medications when patients achieve remission through lifestyle medicine interventions.
The global economic impact of biological invasions exceeds that of natural catastrophes, with $1208 billion in losses between 1980 and 2019. Biological invasions have a long-lasting effect, causing significant damage to infrastructure, crops, and ecosystems.
A mouse study suggests that a specific brain receptor, the leptin receptor, may be involved in the development of PCOS symptoms. Researchers found that mice exposed to excess androgens prenatally had improved estrous cycles and regulation of their menstrual cycles, offering potential therapeutic targets for people with PCOS.
A study published in Circulation Research identifies the FHL5 gene as a key regulator of vascular disease, including heart attacks and aneurysms. The discovery advances our understanding of the underlying causes of vascular disease and provides new insights into genetic risk factors.
Limbitless Solutions has been selected as one of eight winners for the 2023 Unity for Humanity Grant. The organization will use $85,000 to develop its video game Quantum's Pursuit, which aims to empower children and adults with limb differences to learn how to use their bionic arms in a fun and engaging way.
Approximately 30% of the U.S. population lives in a jurisdiction that has implemented taxes specifically for mental health services, generating over $3.57 billion annually. These taxes often provide a stable revenue stream and are more politically feasible than traditional funding methods.
A new study published in Global Strategy Journal highlights the importance of a physical presence in foreign markets for born digital firms. The research found that these firms are more likely to deploy foreign direct investment in far-away and culturally different countries to overcome geographical and cultural challenges.
Researchers found that exercise releases chemical signals that promote neuronal development in the hippocampus, a crucial area for learning and memory. Astrocytes play a critical role in mediating the effects of exercise on brain health, helping to regulate neuronal activity and prevent hyperexcitability.
Researchers at UMass Amherst microbiologists have identified an enzyme involved in TB pathogen's survival and growth. The discovery offers a potential target for drug therapies for the deadly disease, which has few effective treatments and caused over 1.6 million deaths worldwide in 2021.
Researchers confirm that water causes incipient melting, leading to reduced S-wave velocity and enhanced electrical conductivity. The presence of low-velocity zones in continental China is attributed to basal hydration weakening the lithosphere, converting it into asthenosphere.
Researchers at Colorado State University propose using ultrathin films of molybdenum disulfide to improve solar cell efficiency. The material displays unprecedented charge carrier properties that could lead to drastic improvements in solar technologies.
A team of researchers at Vienna University of Technology and Toho University in Japan investigated the electrical resistance of κ-(BEDT-TTF)2Cu2(CN)3 as a function of temperature and pressure. They found that the material exhibits properties similar to those of helium-3, contradicting the theory of a quantum spin liquid.
A UK Biobank study found that cancer survivors may be at long-term increased risk of cardiovascular disease, regardless of traditional risk factors. Those with previous breast or blood cancers were found to have the greatest risk, with significant changes in heart size and function detected on MRI scans.
Researchers found that two outermost electrons from each nickel ion behaved differently, cancelling each other out in a phenomenon called a spin singlet. This led to the discovery of two families of propagating waves at dramatically different energies, contradicting expectations of local excitations.
A new study found that children with COVID-19 and pre-existing high-risk conditions can be effectively treated at home, avoiding hospitalization. The Hospital-in-the-Home program recorded a 21% increase in patients and a 132% jump in telehealth appointments.
Researchers discovered a mechanism that helps explain the link between reduced levels of protein PKMzeta and neurological disorders. The study used epigenetics to show that hypermethylation of the gene regulates its expression.
A new study from the University of Georgia and CDC found that 20% of suicides between 2003 and 2020 were related to issues like breakups, conflict, divorce, and mental health problems. Intimate partner problems were more common among individuals who experienced mental health issues, life stressors, and recent legal issues.
Researchers found that orb weaver spiders' glue proteins differ in proportion between dry and humid environments, enabling rapid adaptation to local conditions. The study sheds light on the evolution of biological glues and their potential applications in industry and medicine.
Researchers have developed a computer-assisted method to automate the assessment of speech severity in ataxia patients, achieving an 80% hit rate. The new methodology leverages artificial intelligence and could simplify procedures for determining ataxia severity, facilitating research and clinical practice.
A large study of over 600,000 individuals found a strong association between COVID-19 infection and the development of incident diabetes. The researchers estimate that SARS-CoV-2 infection may contribute to a 3% to 5% excess burden of diabetes at a population level.
A team of researchers has discovered that a naturally produced chemical in the body helps glioblastoma cells go unrecognized by the immune system. The findings could lead to the development of new and more effective treatments for this aggressive brain cancer.
A new score based on four clinical and imaging parameters identifies patients with heart failure who are most likely to benefit from atrial fibrillation ablation. The Antwerp score shows that patients with low scores (2 or less) have a high chance of recovery, while those with high scores (5 or higher) may not benefit from the treatment.
A recent study published in Life Metabolism reveals that weight loss increases skeletal muscle mitochondrial energy efficiency in obese mice. This increase leads to reduced energy expenditure throughout the body, contributing to weight loss rebound.
Researchers found that young adults with previously had cancer have a 70% increased risk for HPV-related cancers. This includes oropharyngeal cancers and cervical HPV-related cancers, particularly among Hispanic survivors.
Scientists from Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) unveiled multiple advancements in 3D printing, accelerating development of drug delivery systems, biodegradable contact lenses, and pharmaceuticals. CORE's innovations include a novel method to fabricate PDMS microfluidic chips with high throughput.
Researchers found that forecasters have an incentive to misreport when their reputation is at stake, with higher levels of misreporting in less uncertain situations. The study suggests firms should trust expert advice when uncertainty is high and link evaluations to ex-post accuracy to reduce misreporting.
A recent study from Boston University School of Medicine found no significant differences in mortality among patients treated with propylthiouracil (PTU) or methimazole (MMI) for thyroid storm. The researchers compared the two drugs using a national database of hospitalization data and found no significant differences between the groups.
The inaugural Hevolution/AFAR New Investigator Awards in Aging Biology and Geroscience Research provide three-year grants of $375,000 each to support promising early career researchers worldwide. This funding will boost support for junior faculty and speed scientific discovery on the processes of aging.
Australian geoscientists discovered how long ago the Nullarbor plain dried out using iron-rich layers formed in ancient sediments. This finding provides a clearer timeframe for understanding the impact of ancient climate change on Australia's diverse flora and fauna.
Researchers have found that commercially available smartphones and smartwatches can capture key features of early, untreated Parkinson's disease. These technologies could provide more objective and continuous ways to measure the disease, bringing new treatments to market faster for patients in the early stages.
A €10M Horizon Europe grant will support the development of a clinical decision support tool using artificial intelligence to select the best treatment for each individual patient with high blood pressure. The project aims to improve patient care and reduce avoidable consequences such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease.
The WVU SMARTER center aims to improve mobility in rural areas through self-driving cars, ride-sharing services, and bike sharing. The center will develop infrastructure and technology barriers to ensure accessibility for all people.
A new study published in Scientific Reports has revealed the presence of starch glue, vinyl glue and mercury sulphide particles causing black stains on the passepartout. The research used non-invasive and micro-invasive analysis techniques to understand the phenomenon.
A team of scientists has successfully used synthetic platelets to treat a genetic condition that prevents blood from clotting, known as Von Willebrand disease. This breakthrough treatment could provide new hope for millions of people affected by the disorder, which affects up to 1% of the US population.
A team of researchers developed a simple and portable test system to detect salmonella in food, eliminating the need for expensive analytical equipment. The assay uses a nucleic acid probe that is cleaved by an RNase enzyme specific to salmonella, resulting in a clear red spot on an absorbent pad indicating contamination.
Small vesicles released by intestinal bacteria induce immune activation and progression of liver cirrhosis, as well as reduction of serum albumin level, leading to edema and ascites in patients with cirrhosis.