A new international clinical trial found that a drug candidate is highly effective in treating Acanthamoeba keratitis with medical cure rates of 87%, reducing the risk of poor visual outcomes and surgery. The treatment, low concentration polihexanide (PHMB 0.08%), follows a novel and evidence-based protocol.
Researchers found that smooth surfaces like tile and lacquer-coated wood have low bacterial growth, while porous surfaces like untreated oak increase the risk of contamination. Treated wood is recommended as surface material to prevent bacterial transmission via dry hands.
A study in mice finds that two proteins, MAP6 and Kv3.1, interact to control movement, memory, and anxiety. Disrupting this interaction can lead to behavioral changes, including hyperactivity and impaired memory, highlighting potential new targets for schizophrenia treatment.
University of Leicester astronomers confirm the existence of an infrared aurora on Uranus, offering clues to its magnetic fields and potential for life. The discovery may also help identify other habitable planets with similar characteristics.
A new study by York University researchers suggests that people with autism are less likely to be affected by the bystander effect, which can lead to inaction in the face of wrongdoing. The findings suggest that neurodivergent individuals can bring unique benefits to workplaces.
Researchers observed a gamma-ray burst from a kilonova, the collision of two compact neutron stars, using the James Webb Space Telescope. The data revealed the creation of the element tellurium, which had not been recognized before, and provided new insights into the formation of heavy elements in the universe.
Researchers used gut organoids to study gut cell differentiation, identifying ZNF800 as a key regulator of enteroendocrine cells. The discovery could have implications for understanding gastrointestinal diseases and endocrine disorders.
Scientists generate multiple quasiparticles simultaneously in a quantum gas and observe their complex interactions, including attractive and repulsive behavior. Quantum statistics plays a crucial role in these interactions, which are essential for understanding fundamental mechanisms of nature.
Researchers successfully controlled spin waves by using a superconducting electrode, which acts as a mirror to reflect the magnetic field back to the spin wave. This breakthrough offers an energy-efficient alternative to electronics and opens doors for designing new circuits based on spin waves and superconductors.
A team of Osaka University researchers discovered a link between Rab32 and Rab38 proteins, crucial for both hair pigmentation and bone resorption. Double-knockout mice showed increased bone density and altered physical characteristics, highlighting the importance of these proteins in maintaining bone homeostasis.
A survey of 1,005 parents found that internet use by adolescents has both positive and negative effects, including concerns about addiction and cyberbullying. The study revealed that twice as many parents reported specific concerns about internet addiction than substance addiction.
Researchers identified two fungus strains, Cyberlindnera jadinii and Kluyveromyces lactis, with potential probiotic effects on gut inflammation. These strains may offer a new way to develop probiotics and treat inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Researchers at UC Davis Health found that KSHV infection can lead to inflammation and dysregulation of the immune system. The study used single-cell sequencing and other technologies to investigate the role of IL-6 in KSHV-mediated reprogramming of immune cells.
A nationwide study by Radboud University Medical Center found that approximately 32 patients in the Netherlands are in a minimally conscious state after severe brain injury. These patients were on average 45 years old and showed signs of consciousness, such as following simple commands or showing emotions.
A new study found that making simple substitutions like switching from beef to chicken or plant-based milk can reduce the average American's carbon footprint from food by 35%, while also boosting diet quality by between 4-10%. These small changes can have a significant impact on both climate and health outcomes.
Researchers from the Max Planck Research Group aim to investigate the local immune system of the liver to develop new immunotherapy strategies for metastatic diseases. They will examine tissue and tumor samples using state-of-the-art techniques to identify key molecules and checkpoints in complex cellular interaction networks.
Researchers discovered a wide range of organisms, including microbes and humans, exhibit similar movement patterns to navigate their surroundings. These patterns are thought to be linked to uncertainty management in the brain.
Researchers have identified 38 businesses marketing unapproved stem cell treatments and exosome therapies for preventing and treating COVID-19. Many clinics claim to treat Long COVID, with some charging up to $25,000 for 'treatments'. Regulatory bodies must act to protect patients from misleading claims.
Researchers argue that AI systems can be designed to follow human law, suggesting a more integrated approach to regulation. The study proposes training AI agents in legal frameworks and using large language models to monitor and shape their behavior.
Researchers at Delft University of Technology have developed a DNA Origami nanoturbine that can rotate in both clockwise and anticlockwise directions depending on ion concentration. This unique feature has the potential to create nanomachines for delivering drugs into specific cells, offering numerous applications.
A species of Asian mosquito, Anopheles stephensi, is responsible for a sharp expansion of malaria cases in Africa, particularly in urban areas. The mosquito's ability to thrive in dry conditions and adapt to new breeding sites has made it a significant threat to public health.
A new computer simulation of the early universe aligns with JWST observations, showing no discrepancy with theoretical expectations. The 'Renaissance simulations' track dark matter clumps and galaxy formation, consistent with models that dictate cosmic physics.
Researchers at Columbia University have created the fastest and most efficient semiconductor yet, a superatomic material called Re6Se8Cl2. Excitons in this material can bind with phonons to create acoustic exciton-polarons that move faster than electrons in silicon, potentially leading to devices with speeds of femtoseconds.
The special supplement examines the impacts of EHR transitions on patient care, data integrity, and security. It highlights the need for medical institutions to understand the difficulties of transitioning to new systems to maximize success and inform decisions.
The Human Right to Environment affirms the right to life itself, securing human health and wellbeing when humans protect nature. The recognition of this right drives governmental enforcement of environmental protection norms, requiring systemic change to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.
A research team from Heidelberg University has decoded the structure of a sperm membrane transporter, revealing its role in increasing mobility and fertilization capacity. The findings may lead to new treatments for infertility and contraception methods.
An international study led by the University of Granada found that 8,000 steps daily significantly reduce premature death risk, equivalent to 6.4 km walking. The pace at which you walk also provides additional benefits, with faster walking associated with reduced mortality risk.
A large international study has identified genetic variants associated with rare forms of migraine, providing insights into novel therapeutic targets. The study found associations with 44 variants, including three rare variants that point to distinct pathologies underlying different types of migraine.
Researchers have incorporated molecular iodine into the SOCl2 battery electrolyte to increase discharge rate and enable efficient recharging. This breakthrough enables Li-SOCl2 batteries to be used in devices requiring low rates of energy discharge, increasing their practicality for routine energy storage.
Researchers have developed a new synthesis method that controls the temperature and duration of the crystallization process to produce 2D halide perovskite layers with ideal thickness and purity. This breakthrough improves the stability and reduces the cost of solar cells, making them a viable option for emerging technologies.
GEOMAR researchers used 3D seismics to recreate the 1650 Kolumbo volcano eruption, finding that a landslide followed by an explosion created the devastating tsunami. The study provides valuable insights for monitoring submarine volcanic activity and potentially developing early warning systems.
Researchers from Bologna, Siena, and Haifa will investigate Neanderthal extinction in Eastern and Southeastern Europe and Western and Central Asia. The project aims to shed light on the chain of events that led to their disappearance.
Scientists at Southwest University create a Si3N4 microresonator to generate chip-scale microcombs with high nonlinearity, suitable for PRB generation. The application of chaotic optical frequency combs on random number generators could improve speed up to Pbits/s, offering low-cost and parallel solutions.
Two ancient species of whales, the North Atlantic right whale and the grey whale, disappeared from European waters centuries before industrial whaling began. Archaeological analysis of 719 whale bones reveals that early whaling had a devastating impact on these species.
Children diagnosed with ADHD at a young age are just as likely to retain the diagnosis in adulthood as their older peers, according to a new study. The research, which examined data from over 6,500 patients globally, suggests that the youngest children in class are not more likely to lose the diagnosis over time.
A study of 74 children in rural Ethiopian villages found that higher exposure to fluoride was linked to more errors on drawing and memory tests. The results suggest a potential association between high fluoride levels and cognitive impairment, particularly during early brain development and childhood.
Researchers studied over 100 noctilionoid bat species, finding that different dietary types drove modifications in tooth number, size, shape, and position. For instance, fruit-eating bats have shorter jaws with reduced middle premolars, while nectar-feeders have longer jaws with room for more teeth.
Researchers from Austria and France join forces to unravel the secrets of gene regulation during mammalian development using stem cell-derived 3D culture models. The project aims to understand how key molecular events influence gene transcription and regulation over hours and days.
The hypothalamus is a complex structure that coordinates neuronal signals to maintain physiological homeostasis. Recent research has elucidated its structural and functional complexity, revealing potentially thousands of distinct cell types forming redundant circuits.
The new AI chip uses ferroelectric transistors to store data and perform calculations, achieving a TOPS/W ratio of 885, twice as powerful as comparable chips. The goal is to use the chip for real-time applications such as deep learning and robotics, but security requirements and industry-specific criteria may delay its adoption.
Researchers isolated five strains of Minorisa from Japanese coastlines and identified three new species: M. fusiformis, M. magna, and M. megafusiformis. These discoveries reveal the previously unknown diversity within the genus Minorisa and provide opportunities to study their ecological role.
This study found that integrated rice-crayfish farming resulted in significant trade-offs in soil biodiversity, leading to increased supporting services but reduced regulating capacity. The findings highlight the need for attention on environmental risks for long-term sustainability of these systems.
Researchers have developed graphene-based e-textiles with world-class electrical conductivity using ultrashort pulse laser processing. The technology enables environmentally friendly mass production of customized e-textiles, paving the way for industrial and military applications.
A study by Chiba University researchers reveals that DNA methylation and lifestyle data can improve gastric cancer risk assessment. High levels of DNA methylation in the stomach mucosa years before gastric cancer onset are associated with higher risk, while tobacco and alcohol consumption amplify pro-carcinogenic alterations.
Researchers at Cornell University have discovered a new grape downy mildew resistance gene that is one of the strongest found globally. The discovery could help breeders develop more resistant grape varieties, reducing the need for fungicides and their associated costs.
A study published in Annals of Neurology found that receiving clot-busting drug treatment in a mobile stroke unit (MSU) increases the likelihood of averting strokes and complete recovery compared to standard hospital emergency care. Patients treated by an MSU had faster treatment times, with nearly one-third recovering within 24 hours.
Researchers discovered signs of menopause in female chimpanzees in Uganda, surviving past reproductive ability. The study's findings provide insights into the evolution of this trait and may shed light on why it occurred in humans but not other long-lived primates.
Researchers developed an innovative imaging technique to study cells in bones of mice, revealing distinct pockets of bone resorption activity. This knowledge could lead to new treatments for osteoporosis and dormant cancer cells.
Scientists at Nagoya University developed a new gastric acid inhibitor with a binding affinity nearly 10 times higher than existing drugs. The AI-driven approach led to the creation of compound DQ-18, which exhibits stronger binding to the gastric proton pump.
A study by Dr Eva Krockow found that existing terms for antimicrobial resistance, such as 'antimicrobial resistance' and 'AMR', are not taken seriously enough, failing to evoke risk perceptions. The researchers suggest renaming the term to a more memorable one that can effectively convey the severity of the issue.
A Penn State study found that CBD and CBG promoted fracture healing and reduced pain in mice. The cannabinoids accelerated the process of mineral absorption, leading to higher bone volume fraction and density.
A team led by Professor Emma Teeling is exploring the genetic and biochemical factors behind bats' ability to live longer and resist diseases. The project aims to deepen our knowledge of how bats stay healthy, potentially paving the way for future therapeutics.
A study investigates lactic acid bacteria diversity and ecological drivers in naturally fermented milk. Researchers found high intra-species genomic and functional gene diversity, with extensive horizontal gene transfer events and a link to microbial composition.
The study highlights that up to 80% of dye-containing industrial wastewaters are released untreated into waterways, posing direct and indirect threats to human, animal, and plant health. New sustainable technologies and regulations are needed to combat the issue.
A new study finds that dementia incidence started to increase in England and Wales after 2008, leading to a projected increase of 40% by 2040. The number of people with dementia may reach 1.7 million, twice the current estimate of one million.
A team of researchers, led by UCD's Dr. Claire Harnett, has won a prestigious ERC Synergy grant to explore ways to predict and mitigate the hazards of unexpected volcanic eruptions. The project aims to advance knowledge of volcanic processes and integrate multiple scientific disciplines.
Elise Zipkin and her team at Michigan State University have developed a framework to utilize data from well-quantified animals to reveal insights about less common, harder-to-observe species. The new methodology enables the estimation of trends and demographic rates for rarer species using integrated community models.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that roosters can recognize their mirror image and respond accordingly. The researchers tested 58 roosters and found that they emitted alarm calls when seeing themselves in the mirror, but not when seeing a conspecific. This suggests that roosters may have some level of self-awareness.
A five-year study found that most sports and exercise are overwhelmingly safe, with injuries being rare. Fitness activities like running, golf, and dance classes have the lowest injury rates, while sports like football have a moderate risk of injury, with motorsports and gliding carrying significantly higher dangers.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new smartphone case called BrushLens that can help users with visual impairments, tremors, and spasms to interact with touch screens. The device uses a camera to read screen options aloud and guides the user's hand to tap buttons or autoclickers on the underside of the phone case.