A Cochrane review of 17 randomised controlled trials found that blue-light filtering spectacles may not reduce visual fatigue associated with computer use and do not improve sleep quality. The evidence is also unclear on their effects on retinal health.
SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateAug 17, 2023
Researchers have identified a mechanism explaining the characteristic properties of strange metals, which operate outside normal rules of electricity. The theory combines two properties: electron entanglement and nonuniform atomic arrangement, resulting in electrical resistance.
Benzodiazepine lorazepam is associated with shorter progression-free survival in pancreatic cancer patients. In contrast, alprazolam use was linked to a longer progression-free survival. Lorazepam may activate GPR68, boosting IL-6 expression and promoting tumor growth in the pancreatic microenvironment.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes create Gaussian Process Spatial Alignment (GPSA) to analyze 2D data from tissue slices and generate a 3D 'atlas' of the tissue. This allows for deeper understanding of biological tissue samples, enabling more precise predictions of gene expression and treatment outcomes.
A recent study found that climate change affects the mating rituals of Neotropical spiders, with males resorting to deceptive gift-giving tactics when food is scarce. This behavior becomes more common in harsh environmental conditions, leading to a decline in adult spider size and female fecundity.
A new study reveals that Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a leading cause of death in African countries, resulting in estimated 44,320 excess deaths per year. The practice remains legal in five countries and requires cultural change to be effective.
A recent study by the University of Eastern Finland found that improved overall diet quality and increased time spent in reading and organised sports enhanced reasoning skills among children over two school years. Children with healthier eating habits showed greater cognitive development than their peers.
Printable electronics have potential in solar power and LED screens but face challenges in scalable manufacturing. Professor Adam Printz is using a new RAPID printing process to examine fundamental characteristics and advance the field.
Researchers found a combination of ipilimumab and nivolumab can extend progression-free survival and improve response rates in patients with resistant metastatic melanoma. The treatment showed a 37% improvement in progression-free survival compared to ipilimumab alone.
A study in mice found that white matter, a type of nervous system tissue, shows the most pronounced changes as the animals age. The researchers identified 82 genes frequently expressed in different brain regions and developed an aging score to assess gene activity changes with age.
A new study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine documents a consistent risk level across race and gender for victims of partner violence and child abuse. The risk is similar among adult males and females and lower income Black and White Americans, increasing by 20-35% compared to those without interpersonal violence.
SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 17, 2023
The FDA approved brexpiprazole, an antipsychotic drug, for treating agitation in elderly patients with dementia, despite trials showing it failed to provide a clinically meaningful benefit and increased the risk of death. The decision may reverse efforts to reduce off-label use of antipsychotics in care homes.
Researchers used DNA-PAINT to study base-stacking interactions in DNA strands, finding that adding one more interaction increases stability by up to 250 times. This information allowed them to design a highly efficient three-armed DNA nanostructure with potential biomedical applications.
Researchers used radiocarbon dating and time-series modeling to study the timing and causes of megafauna extinctions at Rancho La Brea Tar Pits. The team found that a sharp decline in population occurred between 13,070 to 12,900 years ago, coinciding with warming and drying climate change and increased fires sparked by humans.
Researchers developed a neural network-based system, PAT, for snapshot compressive imaging. It achieves comparable image quality to CASSI and holds strong promise due to advancements in AI processing capabilities.
A study by Diamond Light Source reveals that mixtures of Zn-aggregates/micro-polymers leach out from commercial products containing Zinc Oxide, harming aquatic life. Microplastics can carry zinc particles, which can be ingested by fish and other organisms.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a method that collects and purifies water from fog simultaneously, rendering it safe for use in densely populated urban centers. The technology uses a close-mesh lattice coated with polymers and titanium dioxide to break down organic pollutants.
Aerodynamic researchers at University of Illinois create wind tunnel experiment to study internal boundary layers and their impact on flow behavior. They identify a new internal boundary layer that changes the flow's behavior, providing insights into aerodynamics physics and improving turbulence models for complex designs.
Imaging mass cytometry showcases odd numbers of proteins in kidneys of lupus patients, identifying novel markers for disease. The study found decreased and increased disease markers pointing to renal disease, with potential enlargement of glomeruli in some patients.
Researchers found that rodents exposed to light for the first time in adulthood showed significant plasticity in their brains, challenging previous beliefs about adult brain rigidity. After a month, their brains looked similar to those of healthy controls, with organized visual responses and smaller receptive fields.
Researchers identified how low TET2 levels fuel rapid growth of acute myeloid leukemia in animal models. The study found that TET2 deficiency sets off biochemical changes enhancing the cancer's ability to spread. This discovery highlights potential therapeutic targets for treating aggressive bone marrow cancer.
Research found that increased biodiversity can either help or hinder disease outbreaks in wildlife, depending on environmental conditions. Environmental pollutants like road salt changed the susceptibility of amphibian species to parasites, with higher biodiversity communities experiencing a dilution effect when exposed to pollutants.
A large-scale international collaborative study has identified new genes associated with breast cancer, which could lead to better risk prediction and improved clinical management. The study found evidence for at least four new breast cancer risk genes, with many others showing suggestive evidence.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed an AI model that screens electrocardiograms (ECG) for signs of atrial septal defects (ASD), a common adult congenital heart disease. The model correctly detected ASD in 93.7% of cases, outperforming traditional methods.
Researchers used base editors to introduce specific combinations of activating and inactivating mutations into healthy organoids, creating realistic models for various types of cancer. This allows for further investigation into the development and treatment of cancer, with potential applications including testing new drugs.
Research from the University of Gothenburg reveals that both innate factors and environmental influences contribute to an individual's attitude towards nature. The study suggests that a wide range of factors shape how people express their love for nature, and emphasizes the importance of considering these variations in urban planning.
Researchers found a 19% annual increase in Medicaid-insured cancer patients participating in publicly funded clinical trials after the Affordable Care Act Medicaid expansion. The study shows that targeted policies can increase access to health care and cancer clinical trials for those with Medicaid insurance.
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a new approach using VOCs to detect toxic cyanobacterial blooms in waterways. The method shows promise for predicting the start and end of bloom events, potentially reducing economic losses attributed to these harmful algae blooms.
A decade-long study in Tanzania's Eastern Arc Mountains reveals that biodiversity conservation benefits vary widely among groups, with local rural communities bearing substantial costs. International funding could help smallholder farmers boost yields on their existing land to incentivize long-term forest protection.
Researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute mapped the multiple organ functions of the human yolk sac, revealing its role in producing key hormones and blood cells. The study provides novel insights into the earliest stages of immune cell development and has implications for understanding childhood diseases.
The NIH has established 10 research centers to develop innovative approaches to reducing pregnancy-related complications and deaths. These efforts aim to address disparities in maternal health outcomes by racial and ethnic group, age, education, socioeconomic status, and geographic region.
The sixth generation (6G) of mobile networks will have two iconic features: a virtualized world with digital twins and the tactile Internet. This will revolutionize IoT and advanced applications, while also connecting people's five senses through immersive social networking and games.
New research from the University of Ottawa's Telfer School of Management suggests that managing public transit projects requires a comprehensive approach considering rational, psychosocial, and political dimensions. This involves engaging stakeholders, including non-users, to ensure societal impact and cost-effectiveness.
A new study from the University of Massachusetts Amherst found that the wealthiest 10% of Americans are responsible for 40% of the nation's total greenhouse gas emissions. The study suggests that policymakers adopt taxes focused on shareholders and the carbon intensity of investment incomes to equitably meet climate goals.
Scientists have discovered an additional source of genetic mutations that cause rare conditions like Huntington's disease. Expanded CAG repeat RNA can form aggregates that reduce global protein synthesis and lead to neurotoxicity.
A Texas A&M University team is exploring 3D printing to create tailored medication dosage and tablet size for young children, addressing the need for greater flexibility in administering medications. The project aims to maintain drugs' integrity and effectiveness while advancing the field of pharmaceutical manufacturing.
The article discusses measurement techniques for aspheric surface parameters, including general fitting and center-of-curvature-based methods. These methods assess the quality of aspheric surfaces and provide direction for processing and suitable targets for processing.
A large and diverse group of over 10,000 participants showed a significant reduction in taste intensity, with a 21% decrease compared to those without symptoms. The team used a simple, non-invasive test to track chemical senses, demonstrating that COVID-19 affects taste perception independent of smell.
Researchers found that anxious individuals rely on a less efficient section of the forebrain for emotional control, making it difficult for them to choose alternative behavior. This leads to avoidance of social situations and prevents them from learning that they are not as negative as they think.
A new study found that large-scale fires in an ecosystem made increasingly vulnerable by climate change and human impacts led to the extinction of two-thirds of Earth's large mammals in Southern California. The findings, based on radiocarbon chronology of fossils from the La Brea tar pits, suggest that fire was the primary cause of reg...
Researchers have found that mouse stem cells mimic their parent animals' cold resistance, generating energy differently at low temperatures. This discovery opens up new avenues for studying organ preservation and human hibernation using in vitro models.
A study reveals that racial differences in gut microbiome composition arise after 3 months of age and persist through childhood. Early social and environmental exposures play a significant role in shaping the gut microbiome, with research suggesting that environmental and social factors contribute to health disparities.
Researchers at the University of New Hampshire found that pregnant women living in walkable areas engage in more physical activity and have fewer issues with pregnancy complications. The study also suggests that walking can have health benefits beyond exercise, such as social interactions and community engagement.
A new study examines how youth from Honduras and Nicaragua evaluate moral judgments on acts of physical violence. The findings show that both groups prioritize the well-being of others, but differ in their reasoning, with some forms of violence judged as having protective factors in insecure conditions.
Biased AI can limit climate predictions and misguide governments due to missing information from under-represented communities. Human-in-the-loop design can fill these 'data holes' by offering a sense check on used data and context.
A new UCF project aims to examine a method to keep carbon from escaping soils and trapping heat in Earth's atmosphere. Researchers will focus on histosols in the Everglades Agricultural Area, adding fine minerals to prevent carbon release.
Scientists proposed an adapted Mars ISRU system to produce oxygen for ascent propellants and life support. The system's performance was modeled with various control options, optimizing cell voltage and flow rate while minimizing carbon formation risks.
A randomized clinical trial found that a preoperative augmented reality walkthrough decreased preoperative anxiety compared to traditional education and handouts. However, there was no significant impact on postoperative anxiety, pain levels, or narcotic use in patients undergoing surgery.
The Enchilada Trap enables scientists to build more powerful machines for quantum computing. It can store and transport up to 200 qubits using a network of five trapping zones, enabling researchers to test architectures with many qubits.
Researchers developed a natural product-inspired small molecule that binds to the cellular chaperone cyclophilin A, disrupting oncogenic signaling and tumor growth in several human cancer models. The approach could be used to target additional KRAS mutants and other cancer drivers.
A new study estimates that cancer screenings have saved the US at least $6.5 trillion and led to 12 million more years of life, with significant economic impact from breast, colon, cervical, and lung cancer screenings.
The University of Arizona College of Nursing will deploy immersive managed practice adaptable clinical training starting in the spring semester of 2024, supporting 19 students per year with $25,000 each. The grant also helps establish a longitudinal clinical placement model and provides financial support for community partners.
A group of biologists and ethicists suggest adding clarity to ongoing research using embryo models to refine the legal definition of human embryos. They propose a new definition that focuses on what an embryo can become rather than how it came to be, allowing for improved evaluation of models and potential future recognition as embryos.
A new study found that children as young as 4-5 years old can avoid and recognize sick faces, while adults are more accurate. The study's findings add to the growing body of knowledge on humans' sensitivity to illness in faces, suggesting a behavioral immune system that improves with age.
A European gene therapy clinical trial has demonstrated the possibility of restoring expression of the UGT1A1 enzyme in patients with severe Crigler-Najjar syndrome. The treatment resulted in significant reduction in bilirubin levels and sustained efficacy in patients, offering a new hope for treating this rare metabolic disease.
Researchers found that both dietary weight loss strategies improved the diversity of the gut microbiome. The study suggests that individuals can choose a strategy that works for them, regardless of its impact on their microbiome. Changes in the microbiome may also affect other body functions.
A new study published in Nature Genetics has identified over 4,000 genetic variants linked to brain structure, revealing how the brain's organization is shaped by genetics. The research found that different sets of genes contribute to folding and size of the cortex, with some genes linked to larger or smaller head sizes.
Patients with cancer who live in rural Pennsylvania counties are more likely to receive complex surgeries at high-volume hospitals due to their perceived better outcomes. However, for less complex surgeries, rural patients are less likely to opt for high-volume hospitals despite potential benefits from centralization.
A new study links US household income to greenhouse gas emissions, revealing that the top 1% of households generate 40% of total emissions. This income-based carbon tax could incentivize decarbonization and provide revenue for climate finance, addressing emissions inequality.
SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Climate·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 17, 2023
Researchers successfully simulated super diffusion in a system of interacting quantum particles on a quantum computer, resolving a complex challenge. The breakthrough, achieved using IBM's quantum computer, verifies the Kardar-Parisi-Zhang equation and sheds light on condensed matter physics and materials science.
TDP-43 accumulation in neurons initiates disease progression, spreading to other motor-related neurons. The protein causes mild degeneration in cortical neurons but severe atrophy and cell death in spinal motor neurons.
Researchers have uncovered a living star, HD 45166, that is likely to become a magnetar, marking the discovery of a new type of astronomical object - massive magnetic helium stars. The star has an incredibly strong magnetic field, 43,000 gauss, and will end its life as a compact core with a magnetic field of around 100 trillion gauss.
Researchers developed a new method to estimate vocal cord vibrations pitch from call audio, leading to more accurate dysarthria diagnoses in telemedicine. The method integrates feature quantities extracted from amplitude and phase spectra, demonstrating robustness against background noise.
A study by Cornell University researchers found that current methods for measuring malaria parasite multiplication rates vastly overestimate the actual rates, which has significant implications for vaccine efficacy and understanding of drug resistance.
Researchers found that liraglutide improves associative learning in people with obesity by restoring brain activity to normal-weight levels. The study showed that participants with obesity had reduced ability to associate sensory stimuli and decreased brain activity compared to those with normal weight.
A new study from Lund University in Sweden found that the biggest metabolic changes following gastric bypass surgery occurred immediately after the procedure. However, one year later, the concentration of metabolites and fats had returned to nearly pre-surgery levels.
Researchers have identified a novel pathway to stabilize nanoscale precipitates in alloys by utilizing nonequilibrium processes, stopping coarsening and resulting in stable nanostructures. This approach has potential applications in materials used for nuclear applications, batteries, and other industries.
A new MIT study reveals that soft technology features, such as permitting practices and supply chain management, contribute less than 15% to total cost declines in solar energy systems. Improving these processes could accelerate cost savings in the clean energy transition.
A new study reveals that being divorced is associated with a two-thirds higher risk of lower limb amputation (LLA) in individuals with diabetes compared to those who are married. Additionally, men have a 57% higher risk of LLA than women. The study also found that obesity has a less-than-half the risk of LLA for people with normal weight.
The study found that black soldier fly larvae oil exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, suppressing proinflammatory cytokines and improving colon health. BSFL oil's unique compound profile may offer a new approach to managing inflammatory diseases.
A new study by the PhyloBone project at the University of Turku has identified 255 proteins in 30 species of vertebrates that may play a key role in regulating bone formation and regeneration. The research could lead to new treatments and preventive measures for osteoporosis, a condition that affects millions worldwide.
A new study from Texas A&M University finds a correlation between secondhand smoke exposure and higher blood lead levels in children. The research suggests that education and mitigation efforts can further protect kids and adolescents from lead exposure, building on past success of lead removal initiatives.
A study of a Wolf-Rayet star suggests it will form a magnetar upon explosion as a supernova, with strong magnetic fields predicted. The findings provide new insights into magnetar origins and suggest a possible pathway for their formation.
Researchers detected distinct 'dwarf pulses' from PSR B2111+46 using the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope. These narrow, weak pulses exhibit a rare reversed spectrum and are produced by one or a few particles generated by pair production in a fragile gap of the pulsar's magnetosphere.
A new study found that individuals exposed to common cold-causing coronaviruses have immune responses that may protect them from future SARS-CoV-2 infections. Researchers hope this insight will inform global infectious disease outbreak preparedness and vaccine development.
A new article by leading researchers emphasizes the need for a coordinated approach among all stakeholders to improve trust in research. The authors outline roles for each group, from funders to media outlets, to work together to fortify science integrity.
Researchers developed a new method to assess immune responses to specific antigens after mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccine administration, using B cell receptor repertoire analysis. This approach enables evaluation of post-vaccination responses in immunocompromised patients with high antibody titers.
The invasive orange pore fungus has won the third BMC Ecology and Evolution image competition, highlighting its potential threats to Australian ecosystems. The winning image depicts bright orange fruiting bodies growing on deadwood in the Australian rainforest.
Researchers found that natural forgetting can be reversed in certain circumstances, with memories stored in engram cells still intact but inaccessible. Competition between engrams affects recall, and forgotten memory traces can be reactivated by cues or updated with new information.
Researchers at NUS have developed an aero-elastic pressure sensor called eAir, promising increased precision and reliability in medical applications. The sensor can provide tactile feedback for surgeons during minimally-invasive surgeries, enhancing patient recovery and prognosis.
A new study finds that US property values exposed to wildfires and tree mortality will increase sharply in future climate scenarios, particularly in the western US. Aggressive climate action can substantially reduce exposure, with the value of exposed property topping out at $11 billion under mitigation scenarios.
A study found low primary care vision testing rates for children and adolescents, with lower rates among those without private insurance. Despite yearly testing recommendations, less than half of those with private insurance received testing.
A Penn State-led research team discovered that somatostatin signaling acts to dampen communication among cell types in the prefrontal cortex, promoting exploratory and risk-taking-like behavior. The findings suggest that somatostatin fine-tunes circuits to promote certain behaviors, including decision making.
Researchers have made a groundbreaking finding on the role of biofilm formation in hydrocarbon consumption by Alcanivorax borkumensis bacteria. The study reveals that dendritic biofilms alter the oil-water interfacial tension and buckle the oil droplets, optimizing consumption and accelerating biodegradation.
A recent study found that activating astrocytes in the basal forebrain can keep mice awake for hours without affecting their sleep need or intensity. The researchers hope to develop interventions targeting these cells to improve productivity and health of shift workers and others who work long hours.
Environmental regulators should use scientific experimentation to inform natural resource policy, according to an international group of economists. By conducting experiments and analyzing results, policymakers can create more effective programs and reduce uncertainty about what works and what doesn't.
Researchers discovered a new type of astronomical object - a massive magnetic helium star that may evolve into a magnetar. The star has a phenomenally powerful magnetic field, about 43,000 gauss, and will eventually collapse into a neutron star with an even stronger magnetic field.
A new study found that high-stress caregivers had higher klotho levels and longer telomeres in specific immune cells, which may provide protection against aging. In contrast, low-stress caregivers showed no significant associations between klotho levels and telomere length.
A study by Ohio State University found that urban coyote cortisol levels are higher than those in suburban or natural areas. Chronic stress is also linked to poor physical condition, such as mange infection, and the responsibility of running a pack, with alpha individuals experiencing high stress levels.
Chikungunya virus has found a way to evade the immune system by hijacking host cells' cytoskeleton, allowing it to spread directly from cell to cell. This discovery could lead to the development of effective vaccines or treatments for this debilitating mosquito-borne disease.
Researchers have finally found Pines' demon, a massless and neutral composite particle predicted to exist in certain metals. They used a nonstandard experimental technique that directly excites a material's electronic modes, allowing them to see the demon's signature in strontium ruthenate.
A team of researchers identified neural dynamics that our visual system uses to transform what we see into what we do, demonstrating that working memory relies on both what one is storing and why. This new understanding challenges traditional theories of working memory, which state that storage codes are stable over time.
Researchers analyzed thousands of samples from 700 children between birth and 12 years old, finding that racial and ethnic differences in the gut microbiome arise after three months of age. The study suggests that external factors shape these variations rather than being present at birth.
The five-year grant will help create a multinational research partnership to gather data on prevention and treatment strategies for cancers caused by HPV and Epstein-Barr viruses among this population. Cancer is the leading cause of death among people living with HIV, with poorer treatment outcomes.
Researchers developed a new mathematical model to study circadian rhythm resilience and develop ways to improve it in individuals with weak internal clocks. Sustained disruptions can lead to disorders like diabetes and memory loss.
A new study published in JPRAS Open found that breast size affects women's attitudes towards exercise, with larger breasts leading to less frequent exercise. However, after breast reduction surgery, women reported increased overall frequency, enjoyment and willingness to exercise in a group.
Scientists explore ultracold quantum gas to understand wave turbulence, discovering a universal relation that describes the state's characteristics regardless of external factors. The findings echo the universality of the ideal gas law for equilibrium states, opening up new avenues for understanding non-equilibrium systems.
A new study from the University of Nottingham models how antibiotic resistance genes build up in gut bacteria through lifetime exposure to food intake and antibiotic treatment. The research suggests that reducing exposure to resistance genes is particularly effective during periods of antibiotic treatment, and that dietary advice shoul...
Researchers expand simple view of reading framework using meta-analytic structural equation modeling, validating its effectiveness for SFL learners. Decoding skills and language comprehension skills are identified as primary components for effective SFL reading instruction.
Scientists have identified a molecule that regulates nerve cell sensors, which could lead to new therapeutics for obesity, osteoporosis, and inflammatory diseases. The molecule can be modified into peptide-based therapeutics to boost the activity of channels involved in bone strength and satiety.
Researchers found that certain immune cells were associated with increased protection from flu symptoms, while others were linked to susceptibility. The study's findings have implications for developing tailored vaccine platforms and improving public health strategies.
A new study found that the apex predator Saurosuchus had a weaker bite force than previously thought, equivalent to modern gharials. This suggests that it may have fed only on soft flesh and not been able to crush bones, unlike later dinosaurs.