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Covid-19 "super-spreading" events play outsized role in overall disease transmission

A new MIT study found that Covid-19 super-spreading events, where one person infects many others, are more common than expected. The researchers developed a mathematical model that shows limiting gatherings to 10 or fewer people could significantly reduce the number of super-spreading events and lower overall infections.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 2, 2020

ETH researchers deconstruct tissue repair

Researchers from ETH Zurich have deconstructed the complex mechanisms that control tissue repair and scar formation, focusing on a signal molecule called activin. The study reveals how activin affects cell interactions and extracellular matrix composition, promoting wound healing but also causing scarring.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 2020

Mental health information in rural areas is best delivered face-to-face, study shows

A new study found that farmers prefer receiving mental health information from licensed medical providers, spouses, and friends. Face-to-face communication, such as newspapers and magazines, is also preferred over online methods like social media and the internet.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateDec 2, 2019

Hydrologic simulation models that inform policy decisions are difficult to interpret

Researchers evaluated the accuracy of a commonly used numerical model in hydrology, finding that its results can be difficult to interpret correctly even when properly calibrated. The study recommends using a combination model called SWATmf to improve representation of hydrologic systems.

Soundwave-surfing droplets leave no traces

Researchers create a digital microfluidics platform using soundwaves and oil to avoid contamination for reusable lab-on-a-chip devices. The technology enables programmable, rewritable biomedical chips with exponentially increased combinations of reagent inputs.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 26, 2018

Bioengineers identify safer way to make rugby tackles

Researchers have identified a safer way to make rugby tackles by reducing the impact on the head. The recommended techniques include tackling at the lower trunk and avoiding high-impact tackles to the upper trunk. These strategies aim to minimize the risk of concussions and other head injuries.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalJournal of Science and Medicine in Sport·DateJun 6, 2018

Solving problems that matter

A Lehigh team, backed by the Canadian government and philanthropic foundations, is developing test strips for women's health issues in rural Africa. The project aims to quickly diagnose urinary tract infections and prevent premature labor, low birth weight, or spontaneous abortion.

Keeping the beat

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has renewed funding for the University of Pittsburgh's Cardiovascular Bioengineering Training Program, which educates students in cardiovascular research and prepares them for careers in basic and translational cardiovascular research. The program focuses on three areas: understanding native and ...