News on measuring and increasing the impact of research. Covers research-impact data, AI publishing workflows, open-access programs, and scholarly metrics.
A recent study published in Neuron reveals that Noelin proteins play a crucial role in learning and memory formation in the mammalian brain. The study found that these proteins act as 'universal anchors' controlling the distribution and dynamics of AMPA receptors, which are essential for synaptic plasticity.
The new Southern Center for Maternal Health Equity will develop innovative approaches to reduce pregnancy-related complications and deaths in the Gulf South. The center aims to promote maternal health equity and address disparities in maternal mortality rates, particularly among Black pregnant and postpartum people.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Glutamine metabolism plays a crucial role in cancer cell growth and survival, with its inhibition shown to block cancer cell growth in vivo and in vitro. A recent editorial paper suggests that glutamine dysregulation may also impact the tumor microenvironment, potentially leading to increased oxidative stress and cancer cell death.
A new technique converts kale waste into phytochemicals for use in health and personal care products, preserving potency and using non-toxic solvents. The method reduces energy consumption and emissions, making it attractive for industry adoption and supporting a circular economy.
Brazilian researchers discovered an enzyme that can replace traditional catalysts in the production of aviation biokerosene, increasing renewable biofuel output. The enzyme, OleTP RN, promotes deoxygenation and is selective for different sizes and types of carbon chain.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that people who experience pain after a heart attack are more likely to die within the next 8.5 years. The study analyzed data from over 18,300 adults who had a heart attack and found that moderate or extreme pain was linked to a higher mortality risk.
Researchers developed a novel method using Google Trends to assess player popularity and demonstrated its improvement in predicting market value. The method involves calculating six indicators of popularity that can be compared among players, improving accuracy when incorporated with other factors.
Researchers synthesized over 50 studies to find that mental simulations using visuals or verbal calls to action improve behavioral intentions and behavior. However, the effectiveness varies depending on the modality, frequency, type of consumption experience, and target populations.
Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new framework for studying neutrino self-interactions using supernovae. They found that in the burst case, unprecedented sensitivity to neutrino self-interactions is possible even with sparse data from SN 1987A and conservative analysis assumptions.
Research identifies key molecular signatures and pathways contributing to skeletal muscle strength loss in females with estrogen deficiency. The study found parallel patterns of inhibition and activation across various signaling pathways, including AMPK and calcium signaling.
Scientists created a unique data process that provides valuable insights into how drugs are processed in the body and their impact on biochemical responses. The approach reveals detailed maps of drug transformation and allows for simultaneous discovery of fate and effects.
Research found integrated behavioral health care improves children's mental health and school performance, supporting the potential benefits of pediatric integrated behavioral health care. The study, which included 51 children served by FQHCs in Massachusetts, showed significant improvements over 12 months.
Researchers developed a 'diversity factor' metric to capture paper's impact on health outcomes for all patients, particularly those in low- or middle-income countries. Most medical papers fail to meet this metric due to lack of diversity among authors and patient populations.
Researchers at NTU Singapore have developed a method to read data stored in antiferromagnets, allowing for potential energy-efficient and high-speed computing. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of new memory chips with improved performance and capacity.
Research reveals that a healthy gut microbiome can play a role in the acquisition and severity of HIV and EBV infections. The study found that animals colonized with resident microbiota had higher rates of HIV infection and increased viral loads, suggesting that altering the gut microbiota could be a potential therapeutic approach to c...
Researchers at West Virginia University are tracing the cause of diabetic heart disease using diabetic animal models to examine mitochondrial function. They hope to understand how faulty protein import affects the mitochondria and explore potential treatments to improve energy production and reduce cardiovascular risk.
The study analyzed the Parnaíba and São Francisco River basins, highlighting vulnerabilities to deforestation, fire, drought, poverty, and climate change. The SEVI index measures socio-environmental vulnerability, revealing 'very high' levels in 53% of the São Francisco basin.
WVU linguists analyze speech recordings to determine how intensity and duration shape pronunciation in American English and Spanish. The two-year study aims to redefine sound patterns across languages.
Researchers developed Fibro-Gel, an injectable hydrogel with tunable release profiles and biocompatibility, addressing limitations of conventional drug delivery via hydrogel. The system promotes wound healing with accelerated rates of new tissue regeneration and de novo tissue formation.
Researchers from Weizmann Institute of Science discovered that a subcategory of brain cells responds to stress in a totally different manner in males and females. The findings could lead to better understanding of health conditions affected by chronic stress, such as anxiety and depression.
Researchers explore CDK9 inhibitors as a promising combination partner in treating hematological malignancies. They discuss the role of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) in these diseases and highlight the potential synergism with other drugs.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have designed a probiotic to suppress autoimmunity in the brain, which is at the core of several diseases including MS. The treatment offers a more precise way to target brain inflammation with reduced negative side effects compared to standard therapies.
A WVU team is developing technology to detect and track lethal non-trackable space debris. The project aims to identify objects that can cause mission-ending damage to satellites and other space assets. The researchers will use a digital twin and simulation environment to test and evaluate their findings.
A new study found consistent increases in premature cardiovascular disease (CVD) death and disability due to particulate matter air pollution globally. The analysis, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, revealed a 8.1% rise in age-standardized CVD deaths attributed to outdoor PM pollution between 1990 and 2019.
A team of scientists studied the impact of radiation on DNA, revealing that damaged areas are separated by a critical distance before breaking. The study found an exponential increase in DNA breakage time with distance, providing crucial information for effective DNA repair processes.
The American Heart Association is funding three new scientific research projects to examine the use of race in formulas that calculate risk and determine treatment for cardiovascular disease. The teams will assess potential bias in risk models, develop statistical methods to correct algorithm bias, and support equitable care.
Researchers found that inhibiting NLRP3 signaling reduces podocyte senescence, improves lifespan, and slows down healthy podocyte aging in mice. This discovery holds promise for treating age-related kidney diseases.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a new method using nanopores to advance discoveries in neuroscience and medical applications. The technique allows for real-time detection of dynamic aptamer-small molecule interactions, which can aid in understanding DNA and RNA diseases and drug discovery.
Research from the University of Bath found that classroom environmental education activities do not necessarily translate to changes in children's attitudes towards animals and the environment. While these activities improved knowledge and awareness, they did not alter attitudes or encourage involvement in conservation efforts.
Dr. McKay will investigate the chemical composition of chromophores in DOM using advanced analytical tools and conduct measurements at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory. His research aims to enhance predictions regarding DOM behavior and reactivity in the environment.
A UK-Sri Lankan research network aimed to develop research capacities among senior academic staff members from both countries. The training network investigated differences, overlaps, and synergies between Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) research communities.
The study found that receiving videos or reminders increased consumption of media content about the issue, increased knowledge about available resources, and reported use of some resources in response to violence. However, long-term attitudes towards gender and marital equity remained unchanged.
A new study published in JNCCN found that the adoption of clinical research results led to a significant increase in the use of shorter adjuvant chemotherapy periods, with CAPOX becoming more widely used. The study also revealed disparities in treatment patterns, with Black patients being more likely to receive shorter chemotherapy reg...
Researchers genetically engineered plants to study lignin biosynthesis, but found a compound called pinoresinol restores growth by affecting root hair production. This suggests a broader function for pinoresinol in plant development beyond just lignin synthesis.
A WVU study found that U.S. cities with new professional sports teams saw increased influenza mortality rates, with the NHL teams causing the largest increase. The researchers analyzed data from 122 cities and controlled for factors like population and temperature to find a significant correlation between team arrival and flu deaths.
A Swansea University-led study found that Welsh breastfeeding rates increased during the pandemic, with a significant correlation between mothers' intention to breastfeed and exclusive breastfeeding duration. The study proposes targeted interventions during pregnancy and policies to support families to improve breastfeeding duration.
Researchers studied 21 lowland meandering rivers on Earth and ancient Martian riverbeds to understand how climate change impacts river sinuosity. The study found that variable-sinuosity rivers continue changing, while constant-sinuosity rivers reach a steady state.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have identified a fatty molecule in breast milk that triggers a process in which stem cells produce new white matter, reversing neurological damage. This finding holds promise for developing therapies to treat preterm babies with cerebral palsy.
A University of Ottawa-led research team has made significant progress in understanding XLP-2, a genetic disorder that affects the immune system. The study reveals two underlying mechanisms: poor expression of Interleukin-6 and compromised T cell survival, which lead to immunodeficiency in patients.
Researchers have found an unusual ultrafast motion in layered magnetic materials, which could lead to breakthroughs in high-speed nanomotors for biomedical applications. The discovery was made using cutting-edge ultrafast probes and facilities, revealing a mechanical response across the entire sample.
Researchers found that adults who experienced violence, financial stress, or separation from parents as children were more likely to experience physical and cognitive impairments. Adverse childhood experiences can have lifelong consequences, including difficulty walking, carrying out daily activities, and problems with memory.
Researchers found that blocking dopamine transporters during mid-adolescence increases adult aggression, impulsivity, and the behavioral response to amphetamine in mice. Artificially stimulating dopaminergic neurons also exacerbated impulsive behavior in tasks. The study suggests potential harm from stimulant exposure in healthy teens ...
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have developed a new strategy for producing oxygen-tolerant probiotics, including Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, which can improve glucose control. The combination of bacteria increased biomass and butyrate production, making it safe for human consumption.
A new study by MU researcher Roy Thompson found that immigrant nurses in long-term care facilities often have more 'human capital' than their American-born counterparts, including language skills and additional certifications. This diversity can improve patient health outcomes and create a more equitable workforce.
The Global Atlas of Literacies for Health (GALH) is an interactive map displaying levels of health literacy and digital health literacy from evidence-based studies. The atlas provides a critical tool for literacy reform, enabling targeted interventions for marginalized groups.
Natural and social scientists must work together to address the climate crisis by understanding the complex interaction between environmental and social changes. The research highlights the importance of studying tipping points in both fields to inform climate change policies and practice.
A new multi-center study found that having a genetic variant in the prealbumin gene alone is not sufficient for diagnosing transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy in older Black patients. Researchers suggest that a blood test measuring prealbumin levels may be useful in identifying patients at risk of developing cardiac amyloidosis.
A study examining Facebook users' news feeds found that reducing exposure to content from politically 'like-minded' sources had no measurable effect on political beliefs or attitudes during the 2020 US presidential election. The study also found that participants were exposed to more cross-cutting sources and less uncivil content after...
CHOP and Penn Medicine researchers have developed a proof-of-concept model for delivering gene editing tools directly into diseased blood cells within the body. This approach aims to reduce costs and increase access to gene therapies for blood disorders, which currently require chemotherapy and stem cell transplants.
The American Heart Association has funded seven new scientific research projects to explore the connection between migraines, strokes, and cardiovascular disease. The studies will analyze existing datasets using machine learning and aim to create a collaborative group of experts to uncover the causes of increased risk.
Researchers have identified KIAA0930 as a key factor causing muscle atrophy in cancer cells, which could lead to the development of new anti-cachexia therapies. The study found that KIAA0930 knockdown cells showed increased muscle mass and weight compared to control cells.
Dr. Amir Asadi's team embeds patterned nanostructures into high-performance composites to achieve multifunctionality and structural integrity simultaneously. This approach offers a practical and scalable method for creating nanostructured materials with tunable properties, revolutionizing the manufacturing of high-performance composites.
Researchers found that service-based loan repayment programs like NHSC promote more diverse scope of practice, rural practice, and serving medically underserved populations. In contrast, PSLF may be less effective in supporting underrepresented backgrounds and directing physicians to these areas.
The study, published in Advanced Functional Materials, reveals a novel light-activated material that can be used to effectively reshape and thicken damaged corneal tissue, promoting healing and recovery for patients with keratoconus. The technology has tremendous potential to impact millions of people suffering from corneal diseases.