A new study found that the majority of top-selling prescription drugs in the US have low added benefit, with consumer advertising favoring these products. The analysis revealed a significant shift in promotional spending to direct-to-consumer ads, which may drive patient demand for less effective treatments.
A recent study found that nearly half of older adults receive no dental care and half lack dental insurance. After becoming eligible for Medicare, the percentage of people receiving restorative dental care decreased by 8.7%, while complete edentulism increased by almost 5 percentage points among those aged 65 and above.
Scientists at the University of Jena have solved a decades-long puzzle by studying quartz samples under extreme pressure. They discovered that characteristic lamellae, which are often used to detect asteroid impacts, form when quartz transforms into a more tightly packed phase under high pressure.
Researchers at Nagoya University have identified 2,6-dihalopurines as a new class of stomatal opening inhibitors, potentially involving LRX3-5 and RALF peptide. This discovery may lead to the development of new agrochemicals and chemical biology research applications.
A new study reveals that medical students learn valuable lessons from Family Medicine clerkships, including the importance of the doctor-patient relationship and clinical skills. The research also identifies a hidden curriculum area for improvement: acknowledging the difficulties of primary care practice. This finding has implications ...
Researchers found inconsistencies in labor and delivery policies, causing vicarious trauma among nurses. Policy changes are proposed to improve emotional and mental health support for healthcare workers.
The study validated the clinical utility of Strata Oncology's proprietary pan-solid tumor predictive biomarker, Immunotherapy Response Score (IRS), which predicts response to checkpoint inhibitor therapy. IRS captures tumor biology and microenvironment by combining tumor mutation burden with quantitative expression of PD-L1, PD-1, ADAM...
The new automated method, called HybridFlow, uses large-scale aerial images to produce precise 3D models of cityscapes and landscapes. This technology has potential applications in natural disaster risk assessment and mitigation, enabling informed decision-making and evaluation of risk-mitigating factors.
Researchers utilized the Chemistry42 platform to generate novel molecular structures and identified a hit molecule for CDK20, a promising target for hepatocellular carcinoma. The platform's customizable reward function and generative models enabled efficient design and optimization of molecules.
A global assessment identifies areas most vulnerable to Glacial Lake Outburst Floods, highlighting the need for targeted risk management actions. The study reveals 9.3 million people in High Mountain Asia are at highest risk, with India and Pakistan accounting for nearly half of the global total.
Scientists develop eigenmodes of structured light that remain undistorted even in turbulent channels, enabling robust transmission through noisy media. This breakthrough paves the way for future work in quantum light communication and imaging through complex systems.
Researchers developed a 'scanning and direct derivatization' method to target polymyxin, an antibiotic of last resort, for treating diseases resistant to conventional drugs. The method generated hundreds of peptide derivatives with varying effects, accelerating drug development.
Researchers developed new spiro-pyrazolo quinazoline derivatives with reduced bee toxicity without compromising insecticidal activity. The compounds showed promising results, including one compound with an LD50 value three to four orders of magnitude lower than fipronil.
A Yale University-led study reveals that Chinese public opinion on ivory became more negative after the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) allowed the sale of African ivory to China. The research used machine learning techniques to analyze public opinion from Chinese media coverage b...
Research reveals that opioid tapering can lead to more hospitalizations and emergency department visits, while also reducing primary care visit rates. The study's findings suggest potential unintended consequences of opioid tapering for policymakers and clinicians.
Researchers used Reinforcement Learning to enable kites and gliders to adjust their orientations in real-time, accounting for turbulence. This improvement could significantly enhance the performance of airborne wind energy devices, expanding the reach of wind power to poorer communities.
Engineers at the University of Waterloo developed AI technology to predict breast cancer treatment effectiveness, allowing doctors to prescribe personalized treatments and reduce unnecessary side effects. The new algorithm uses synthetic correlated diffusion imaging images to forecast patient responses to chemotherapy.
A new study found that children with conduct disorder who experienced childhood maltreatment have more extensive brain structural changes compared to those without maltreatment. The study highlights the unique contribution of childhood maltreatment to these changes and provides neurobiological insights into the heterogeneity of CD.
A recent GP survey found that trans and non-binary adults in England are more likely to experience long-term health conditions, including mental health problems and learning disabilities. They also report negative experiences of primary care and prefer continuity with a preferred GP.
A new study by UCL and King's College London researchers found that vaporized cannabis has the same short-term effects on adolescents (16-17 years old) as on adults (26-29 years old), regardless of CBD levels. The study also showed that CBD does not reduce the psychoactive effects of THC in cannabis.
Researchers from University of Jyväskylä found that forest management has a stronger effect on the supply of ecosystem services than climate change. The study suggests that forest management planning should account for biogeographic diversity, and climate change mitigation measures are particularly suited for northern Finland.
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing found that parents' early developmental discussions are critical for GBQ adolescent males' sexual health. The study suggests age-appropriate and inclusive conversations at home throughout adolescence, even in elementary school. This approach can reduce vulnerability to p...
A recent study published in Cell explores the neural mechanisms underlying pleasurable touch, finding that touch neurons are involved in dopamine release and sexual arousal. The research sheds new light on the intricate connections between touch, pleasure, and human behavior.
A Rutgers study found that older people living with HIV/AIDS face unmet mental health needs and are more likely to experience PTSD, substance dependence, and suicidal thoughts. Resilience may play a crucial role in increasing adherence to antiretroviral therapy, which is essential to ending the AIDS epidemic.
Nicotinamide riboside has been found to increase muscle mitochondria, improve gut bacterial composition, and boost NAD+ concentrations in humans. The findings suggest that NR supplementation may be a promising therapeutic option for diseases characterized by muscle mitochondrial dysfunction and/or gut microbiota imbalance.
Researchers at the University of East Anglia have developed a new blood test to detect prostate cancer with 94% accuracy. The Prostate Screening EpiSwitch (PSE) blood test significantly enhances overall detection accuracy for at-risk men, offering a rapid and minimally invasive diagnosis.
FRIDA uses AI models similar to those powering tools like ChatGPT and DALL-E 2 to generate paintings based on user input. The robot's final products are impressionistic and whimsical, with bold brushstrokes that lack precision sought in robotic endeavors.
A team of researchers used computational fluid dynamics to simulate the 3D spatial transmission of COVID-19 within a hospital isolation room. They found that the area above a patient's bed at a height of 0.7 to 2 meters is the highest risk zone for infection.
The work group reframed what is clinically meaningful to slow Alzheimer's disease progression, including the need for combination therapies and realistic expectations of benefits and risks. Slowing brain deterioration by four to six months in early stages may preserve function, leading to meaningful outcomes for patients and families.
A team of international codebreakers has deciphered 57 previously unknown letters written by Mary Queen of Scots while imprisoned in England. The letters provide insights into her captivity and communication with French ambassador Michel de Castelnau, including complaints about poor health and negotiations for release.
A new study led by Yale University researchers found that climate change may lead to a significant loss of tropical biomass, resulting in increased carbon emissions. The researchers predicted that if greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise, stored carbon could nearly double by 2100.
Researchers developed a new molten salt battery design using sodium and aluminum that can charge and discharge faster, operate at lower temperatures, and maintain excellent energy storage capacity. The battery's specific energy density could reach up to 100 Wh/kg, making it a promising solution for 10-plus hours of energy storage.
Researchers found that children with fewer friends are more susceptible to influence from partners who have more friends, promoting compatibility and reducing dissimilarity. Conformity helps preserve existing friendships by strengthening similarities and reducing potential sources of conflict.
A study published in Frontiers in Environmental Archaeology reveals that Neanderthals regularly harvested large brown crabs from the nearby rocky coast, targeting adult animals and cooking them on coals. The findings add evidence to the notion that marine foods played a significant role in Neanderthal diets.
The Alzheimer's Association redefines clinical meaningfulness, finding modest yet significant benefits from approved treatments that expand over time. Combination therapies are expected to provide more substantial benefits moving forward.
Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed a way to improve the accuracy of medical needle-use in surgical simulation, reproducing effects similar to real-life delivery. The breakthrough has the potential to enhance training for junior surgeons and develop surgical robotic solutions.
Researchers found pigeons can solve complex categorization tests through exhaustive trial and error, mirroring artificial intelligence's process. Pigeons' ability to memorize patterns and objects surpasses human performance in similar tasks.
Researchers developed high-throughput Raman microscope for rapid large-area imaging hundreds of times faster than traditional approach. The new technique enables label-free molecular analysis and multiplex chemical imaging, holding promise for efficient medical diagnoses and drug development.
Researchers developed a bioactive gel from cow mucus that promotes bone formation and blood vessel growth, potentially replacing traditional bone grafting methods. The gel interacts with the immune system to enhance healing of bone defects.
A research project from Edith Cowan University highlights the impact of excluding people with chronic diseases on tourism and proposes strategies for accessible travel. The industry can accommodate vulnerable travelers by implementing initiatives such as caregiver support, education, and technological advancements.
The American Heart Association is recognizing 10 leading stroke scientists who have made significant contributions to the field of stroke research. Among them, Dr. Cheryl Bushnell will be honored with the Ralph L. Sacco Outstanding Stroke Research Mentor Award for her exceptional mentorship and research in women's issues related to str...
A study by Pusan National University researchers found that countries closer to the equator have higher suicide rates due to decreased sunlight exposure. The prevalence of suicide increased with latitude, and was found to be higher in men than women, with age also being a significant factor
A Brazilian study found that early sugar consumption and interruption of breastfeeding are key factors contributing to dental caries in infants. Extended breastfeeding was shown to protect babies' teeth as long as they didn't receive sugary food, with the risk declining with falling sugar consumption.
Researchers highlight CD200's role in regulating immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments and propose alternative strategies for its neutralization. Unbiased genomic- and proteomic-based approaches may help clarify CD200 expression regulation across various human cancers.
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that voter ID requirements motivate supporters of both parties equally to comply and participate. The research suggests that these laws have a countermobilization effect, diminishing their anticipated impact on election results. Instead, lawmakers should con...
Researchers at USC Keck School of Medicine have identified two new avenues for treating diverse forms of ALS by suppressing genes and inhibiting proteins. The findings suggest that targeting SYF2 gene suppression and PIKFYVE kinase inhibition may lead to broadly effective treatments for the disease.
New Zealand and five other island nations, including Australia and Vanuatu, have the potential to continue producing food despite reduced sunlight and cooler temperatures after a nuclear war. However, countries' resilience is threatened by dependence on imported commodities and collapse of industry and social functioning.
A real-time visual sensing system developed by researchers at Incheon National University can detect overcrowding with an accuracy of 96.55% in real-time. The system uses drones to capture footage, analyze it using a modified ResNet architecture, and feed the data into a social monitoring system.
Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine found that p97 protein mutations can cause organelle miscommunication, leading to the accumulation of molecules on mitochondria-endoplasmic reticulum contacts. This miscommunication can modulate membrane rigidity and impact interorganelle interactions.
Researchers have developed a shellac-based coating to improve the gas barrier properties of moulded pulp materials, making them suitable for food packaging. The coating, combined with nanofibrillated cellulose, provides superior water resistance and thermal stability, while preserving environmental sustainability.
A study examined the relationship between drug characteristics and manufacturer spending on direct-to-consumer advertising. The research found a higher proportion of promotional spending allocated to DTC ads among drugs with lower added benefit and higher total sales, suggesting potential implications for public health policies.
Researchers conducted an experiment with nearly 700 people in three countries to gauge the public's perception of relative risk factors. The results suggest a major health-risk public-communications failure in terms of how behaviors compare in relative risk.
Chemist Alexej Jerschow receives the first Carl Zeiss Humboldt Research Award for his exceptionally broad research approach in nuclear magnetic resonance. He will collaborate with the team of Dmitry Budker at Mainz University and access to EUR 50,000 for activities during his stay in Germany.
Researchers detected high levels of hydrogen peroxide in pancreatic cancer cells, which makes it a critical target for cancer treatment and research. The study also showed that cancer-promoting mutations lead to suppressed genetic expression of enzymes breaking down hydrogen peroxide.
Researchers from DZD and Harvard Medical School identified key hepatokines dysregulated in NAFLD, predicting type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular events. Hepatokine cluster analysis revealed distinct subtypes of people with fatty liver having different pathomechanisms of insulin resistance.
A study of 160 urban preteen students found no association between video game play and their performance on the Cognitive Ability Test 7, evaluating verbal, quantitative, and nonverbal/spatial skills. The researchers also discovered that certain types of games claiming to improve cognitive skills showed no measurable effects.
The Lancet experts urge an international treaty to curb irresponsible formula milk marketing, exploiting parents' worries about infant health. The series highlights how profits benefit high-income countries while causing social, economic, and environmental harms in low- and middle-income nations.
A new study found that E. coli K-12 has accumulated numerous genetic changes compared to its original isolated bacteria, making it less suitable as a model organism. This discovery highlights the rapid evolution of bacterial genomes and challenges the long-standing use of a single strain in research.
A recent study by the DRCR Retina Network found that early treatment with anti-VEGF drugs did not improve visual acuity in patients with diabetic retinopathy. The study enrolled 328 participants and used preventative injections to slow disease progression, but showed no benefit to vision.
The University of Oklahoma engineer is developing a novel endoscopic optical imaging technique to provide real-time visualizations for needle-based medical interventions. This technology aims to improve the precision of needle placement, reducing complications and improving treatment efficacy.
A new control system design method achieves ultra-precision positioning on industrial machinery with unknown vibration characteristics. The system uses a nominal characteristic trajectory following controller and a vibration suppression compensator to reach target positions with high speed and precision.
A study published in the journal Nutrients found that regular coffee consumption is associated with lower blood pressure levels, both peripheral and central. The researchers analyzed data from a sample of Italian adults and discovered that moderate coffee drinkers had significantly lower systolic and pulse pressures.
A new biomarker, GFAP, has been identified that can predict both current and future progression of multiple sclerosis. Elevated blood levels of GFAP indicate chronic disease processes involving astrocytes, which contribute to gradual progressive disability.
A fossil plant from California has shed light on the evolution of flowering plants, pushing back their origins by 80 million years. The discovery indicates that structurally complex rainforests may have existed as early as the Cretaceous period.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a self-assembling peptide ink that enables the 3D printing of complex structures with cells, which can then be used to grow mature tissue in a petri dish. The ink allows for control over cell behavior using structural and chemical complexity.
Scientists from Okayama University used environmental DNA (eDNA) to survey the distribution and population density of the endangered bitterling fish in Japan. They found that eDNA concentrations vary according to the downstream channel distance, providing a reference for conservation surveys.
A team of researchers developed a model-free approach using deep reinforcement learning to optimize estimation of multiple parameters in quantum sensors. The protocol achieved significantly better estimations compared to nonadaptive strategies, demonstrating enhanced performance in resource-limited regimes.
Researchers at VCU Massey Cancer Center have discovered a novel combination therapy that dramatically suppresses the growth of AML cells, including those resistant to venetoclax. The dual mTORC1/2 inhibitors synergistically enhance AML cell death when paired with venetoclax.
The NCI is funding a $587,000 research grant to improve KRAS treatment resistance in pancreatic cancer. Dr. Andrew Waters aims to develop personalized medicine approaches by studying unique resistance mechanisms.
Researchers from Harvard Medical School discovered a link between head injuries and high blood pressure in former football players. The study, which surveyed over 4,000 players, found that concussion symptoms can predict hypertension even after controlling for other risk factors.
Even after 80 years of abandonment, former agricultural sites have only partially recovered in terms of plant diversity compared to undisturbed sites. Researchers from iDiv and other institutions found that restoration interventions can help speed up the recovery process by targeting specific species composition.
A new approach, called the white phase concept, uses autonomous vehicles to control traffic flow at intersections, reducing fuel consumption and travel time. The system informs human drivers through a clearly identifiable signal, improving safety and efficiency.
A new study highlights the dramatic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer-screening delays, with significant delays observed among younger individuals and diverse populations. The study found that 11%-36% of planned cancer screenings were postponed due to COVID-19, with the greatest delays seen for Pap tests and colonoscopies.
Researchers developed a novel pH-activated nanocytokine system using IL-12, which enhances immunity and eradicates tumors in murine models. The nanocytokine controls inflammation through spatiotemporal regulation, blocking counteractive immune responses and reducing toxicity.
Researchers have observed exciton quasiparticles confined in atomically thin materials, opening paths to controlling excitons for quantum and optolectronic applications. Custom-built materials can now be designed to confine and manipulate excitons.
A new American Heart Association scientific statement outlines ideal foundational requirements for stroke program development and growth. The guidelines aim to minimize inconsistencies and improve services provided by certified stroke centers across the U.S., emphasizing leadership, personnel resources, and quality improvement.
The study explores the impact of counteranions on stacked ion pairs, leading to variations in energy and orientation. The researchers developed a diverse set of assemblies with tunable properties by incorporating alkyl groups into positively charged squarylium dyes.
A new study by the University of Bristol has found that spironolactone can help preserve the glycocalyx layer on blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing damage from diabetes. This discovery could lead to more effective treatments for diabetic kidney disease without adverse side effects.
A new study from the University of North Carolina found that over ten new residences have been built in NC's 100-year floodplains for every residence removed through government buyouts. This trend contributes to increasing risk, despite community and government efforts to reduce flood damage.
A 15-year study found that group practice of Transcendental Meditation and its advanced aspect, TM-Sidhi, may help counter the rising trends in US drug overdose deaths. The study estimated that 34,194 drug-related fatalities may have been averted as a result of the decline in drug-related fatality rate during the demonstration phase.
A new psychology study from the University of Sydney found that both gay men and heterosexual men prefer masculine-presenting gay men for high-status roles, suggesting feminine gay men may face implicit discrimination in the workplace. This study highlights internal bias and potential discrimination against feminine-presenting gay men.
A recent study published in the British Journal of Surgery found that patients undergoing liver surgery fare better in higher-volume hospitals. In-hospital mortality rates were lower in these facilities, with a rate of 2.8%, compared to 3% in lower-volume hospitals.
Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a new synthesis method that allows the introduction of multiple B- and Si-containing groups into aromatic nitrogen heterocycles. This breakthrough unlocks the creation of versatile platforms for organic compounds relevant to medicinal chemistry. The approach enables the production o...
A study published in eLife found that one in two cancer patients developed long COVID-19 symptoms persisting beyond six months after initial infection. Female cancer patients were more likely to experience long COVID-19 compared to men, and most cases could be managed as outpatients.
Citizen science project in Arctic reveals 1/3 of plastic debris comes from Europe, with significant contributions from Germany. The findings underscore the urgent need for improved local waste management and reduced global plastic production to tackle pollution in remote ecosystems like the Arctic.
A study by Brown University researchers found that night shift nursing home staff had significantly lower rates of COVID-19 testing and primary vaccination compared to day shift staff. The study highlights the importance of considering work shifts in designing workplace health interventions.
A national COVID-19 study found that Asians and lower-income households reported less confidence in accessing community resources crucial for their health and wellbeing during the pandemic. The study also revealed disparities related to sociodemographic characteristics and health-related characteristics, emphasizing the need for target...
Scientists at Nagoya University developed an index to estimate a bird's wing use based on coracoid bone strength and body mass. This new tool sheds light on how ancient birds evolved to fly, including the flapping abilities of extinct species.
A new WVU study found nearly one in eight West Virginia infants had in utero exposure to opioids, stimulants, and/or cannabis between 2020 and 2022. The study showed a 40% increased risk of preterm birth among infants exposed to stimulants alone and a 70% increase with concurrent stimulant and cannabis exposures.
A synthetic biosensor created at Cornell University enables the study of proteins in ways previously impossible, leading to potential applications in drug development and environmental sensing. The system uses cell-free synthesis to produce proteins directly into an artificial membrane, allowing for dual optical and electronic readouts.
Physicists from the University of Vienna successfully demonstrated a universal rewinding protocol that can reverse certain quantum processes, including the time evolution of a single photon. The protocol uses an intricate optical setup and demonstrates reversibility without knowing the interactions with the quantum system.
A mysterious, extremely remote celestial body has been identified as a young, compact galaxy forming stars at an incredibly high rate of 1000 times the Milky Way's. Its features were finally described by a team from SISSA using ALMA interferometer technology.
A new paper reviews the exclusion of Latin American and Caribbean researchers in ornithology, citing language hegemony, publication costs, and North-biased views. The authors argue that this systemic barrier is not only unjust but also detrimental to scientific rigor and bird conservation.
Researchers used computational simulations to model Charon's internal ocean freeze and its effects on the moon's surface. The study found that the freezing of an internal ocean may have formed deep depressions along Charon's girth but was unlikely to lead to cryovolcanoes erupting with ice and water in its northern hemisphere.
Researchers discovered that certain microorganisms dominate burned soil after a wildfire, with some species increasing in abundance and others consuming charcoal. This finding could help revive megafire dead zones and provide insights into the human microbiome's response to stress.
The study of two Antarctic blue whales tagged in the east Antarctic sector of the Southern Ocean reveals significant logistical challenges and provides initial insights into foraging ecology, habitat preferences, distribution, movement rates, and feeding patterns. The satellite tracks will assist the International Whaling Commission's ...
New research from the University of Georgia reveals that artificial intelligence can be used to find planets outside our solar system. Machine learning can analyze environments where planets are still forming, helping scientists overcome difficulties such as distance and data thickness.
A study by University of Gothenburg researchers found a significant association between methotrexate use and an increased risk of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and cutaneous malignant melanoma. The study suggests that higher doses of methotrexate may increase the risk of SCC and BCC, while no dose-response relationship...
Researchers suggest that individuals with resources can offset their subsistence emissions by paying for climate adaptations in low-income countries or through emission offset schemes. This approach aims to balance individual needs with environmental responsibility.
Researchers found that AI significantly improved the detection of lung nodules on chest X-rays, detecting actionable nodules at a rate of 0.59% compared to 0.25% without AI assistance. The study suggests that AI may work consistently across different populations.
A study published in Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics found that phytoplankton productivity in the Southern Ocean contributes to dense clouds that reflect sunlight. The high density of water droplets in these clouds helps regulate global temperatures and precipitation patterns.
A new study from Wake Forest University School of Medicine has demonstrated altered dopamine signals in the brain's striatum region related to counterfactual information and relief. Dopamine levels were lower in participants with a history of alcohol use disorder, suggesting impaired decision-making processes.
The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is hosting its annual meeting, #DiscoverBMB, featuring award lectures by high-profile speakers. The event will take place March 25-28 in Seattle, with topics including quorum sensing and developmental mechanisms in African Trypanosomes and precision oncology.
An international team of researchers has created a detailed genetic map of two sea turtle species, revealing surprising similarities and differences. The study finds that green turtles have evolved more immune-related genes, while leatherbacks have historically lower population levels and reduced genetic diversity.
Researchers found that salt concentration is crucial for icicle ripple formation. With increasing salt levels, ripples become stronger and more visible. This discovery explains the rippled patterns on gutters and car bumpers during winter.
Researchers analyze penguin swimming movements to understand their underwater turning maneuvers. They found that body banking and wing upstroke generate centripetal force during turns. This study sheds light on the physics behind penguins' aquatic prowess.