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The architecture of a 'shape-shifting' norovirus

Researchers at the University of Leeds have discovered a dynamic shape-shifting mechanism in noroviruses, which may help explain their potent pathogenicity and inform vaccine development. The study's findings could lead to the creation of more effective vaccine candidates using virus-like particles (VLPs).

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 31, 2020

Progress of gender revolution

Despite improved measures of gender equality since 1970, recent decades have seen stalled progress, with some gaps widening. Women now outpace men in higher education and certain occupations, but overall trends suggest a need for cultural and institutional shifts to address remaining disparities.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 30, 2020

Three-drug combination reduces COPD patient mortality

A new study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine reports that a three-drug combination of fluticasone furoate, umeclidinium, and vilanterol reduces all-cause mortality by 42% in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) treated with an inhaler once daily.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 18, 2020

Majority in national survey against separating immigrant families at US/Mexico Border

A national survey conducted by Baylor University researchers found that a majority of participants opposed separating immigrant families and charging parents as criminals. The study also identified factors associated with support for the zero-tolerance policy, including conservative ideology and social dominance orientation.

SourceBaylor University·JournalAnalyses of Social Issues and Public Policy·DateMar 16, 2020

Separations between earthquakes reveal clear patterns

Researchers found a strong 'cross-correlation' between inter-earthquake distances and times, especially after large earthquakes. The study's results could help seismologists better understand earthquake patterns and inform policymakers about disaster preparedness.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateMar 12, 2020

A PLOS Medicine special issue devoted to refugee and migrant health

A recent study on Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh found that 64% had significant physical disabilities, while caregivers reported providing over 13 hours of care per day. Another study in the UK found that migrant mothers were less likely to visit emergency departments with their children, but those who did had higher utilization rates.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 3, 2020

Study links frequent tooth brushing to lower risk of diabetes while dental disease and missing teeth associated with increased risk; stronger effect of tooth brushing in younger adults and women

A study published in Diabetologia found that frequent tooth brushing is linked to a lower risk of developing diabetes, with an 8% reduced risk for those brushing three times a day or more. In contrast, dental disease and missing teeth are associated with a higher risk of diabetes, with increases of 9% and 21% respectively.

SourceDiabetologia·JournalDiabetologia·DateMar 2, 2020

Marijuana use among older adults in US

A study analyzing national survey data found that cannabis use increased significantly among women, racial/ethnic minorities, and those with higher incomes or education levels. The proportion of adults who reported past-year marijuana use rose from 2.4% to 4.2% between 2015-2018.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 24, 2020

New artificial intelligence algorithm better predicts corn yield

A new AI algorithm developed by University of Illinois researchers accurately predicts corn yield using deep learning and convolutional neural networks. The approach incorporates various topographic variables, soil electroconductivity, nitrogen treatment rates, and seed application to optimize crop management decisions.

Improving assessments of an endangered lion population in India

A new study provides alternative method for monitoring endangered lions, estimating an overall density of 8.53 lions per 100 square kilometers. The researchers found that prey density does not influence variations in lion density within the study site, and baiting lions for tourism perturbs their natural density patterns.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 19, 2020

Leadership and assertiveness

A recent study by Jackson Lu, Richard Nisbett, and Michael Morris found that East Asians are disproportionately underrepresented in US leadership positions due to relatively lower assertiveness. The research suggests that diverse leadership styles are valuable for organizations and highlights the need for recognition of these differences.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 17, 2020

Understanding recent US mumps outbreaks

A recent study analyzing over 200 mumps virus genomes provides insights into the US outbreaks, revealing a dominant strain responsible for many cases. The research also demonstrates the value of high-quality genomic data in public health surveillance and suggests future efforts should incorporate whole genome sequencing.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 11, 2020

The most human algorithm

A team from Universitat Rovira i Virgili developed an algorithm that makes accurate predictions and generates interpretable models. This allows for a better understanding of the data, reducing biases in original data and providing valuable information for scientists.

SourceUniversitat Rovira i Virgili·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 31, 2020

If it takes a hike, riders won't go for bike sharing

New Cornell research reveals that bike-share systems often deter users due to long distances between docking stations. The study recommends creating denser networks with smaller stations and increasing bike availability to grow ridership. Placing stations near grocery stores provides the most benefit, according to the findings.

SourceCornell University·JournalManagement Science·DateJan 30, 2020

An egg a day not tied to risk of heart disease

A large multinational study found no harm from consuming eggs, with moderate intake (one egg per day) not increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease or mortality. The study analyzed data from 146,011 individuals across 21 countries and found no association between egg consumption and blood cholesterol levels.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJan 27, 2020

Judges deny abortion care to teens

A new CU Boulder-led study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that judges deny minors' abortion requests with impunity, potentially due to personal political biases. The study analyzed data from Texas over 18 years and found that judges denied cases by up to 13%.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJan 16, 2020

Alcohol tax reform needed

La Trobe University researchers found introducing a minimum unit price of $1.30 per standard drink in Australia could dramatically reduce alcohol consumption. This policy, already proven successful in Canada and Eastern Europe, could see a 10.7% fall in overall consumption and a 14.2% reduction among harmful drinkers.

SourceLa Trobe University·JournalAddiction·DateJan 15, 2020