News on research labs and their facilities. Covers lunar research sites, national-lab partnerships, obesity classification, and cloud-lab funding.
Researchers found two antimicrobial agents that are more effective in treating the disease-causing agent Treponema pallidum in a laboratory setting. The discovery opens new doors in understanding the disease and finding ways to prevent infection and intervene.
Researchers developed Plasma-grating induced breakdown spectroscopy (GIBS) and Multidimensional plasma grating induced breakdown spectroscopy (MIBS) techniques to overcome LIBS limitations. These novel methods exhibit heightened sensitivity and accuracy in detection, particularly for solution detection.
Researchers developed an automated spot assay system using a liquid-dispensing robot to evaluate yeast growth potential on agar media. The new system, which corrects variations in agar height and automatically observes and quantifies yeast growth, showed comparable accuracy to manual experiments.
A rapid diagnostic test for sepsis has been validated in the emergency department, providing a reliable aid for early detection. The study found that the test improved sepsis triage and reduced time to diagnosis, leading to better patient outcomes.
A new study has defined analytical performance specifications for 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D examinations, which is essential for developing accurate methods to detect this metabolite. The findings show that the variation of 24,25(OH)2D concentration over time was significantly associated with 25(OH)D concentrations and body mass index.
Soil microbiology research increasingly relies on big data, with experiments moving from labs to fields. Discrepancies between lab and field studies impact policies due to inconsistent results. Bridging the gap requires interdisciplinary collaboration to improve upscaling of soil microbiology research.
Researchers found that psilocybin facilitates fear extinction in mice by promoting hippocampal neuroplasticity. The study's results improve our understanding of the restorative effects of psilocybin on the brain and may lead to alternative treatments for PTSD.
The City University of Hong Kong (CityU) has been approved to establish the first UNESCO Regional Training and Research Centre on coastal contaminant monitoring in Hong Kong, focusing on the Western Pacific region. The centre aims to strengthen marine pollution monitoring, promote innovative technologies, and facilitate international r...
A study of 55,000 Canadian patients with COVID-19 found that vaccination significantly reduced severe outcomes and burden on healthcare systems. The research also highlights the importance of vaccination in reducing mortality rates associated with COVID-19.
Scientists at ETH Zurich have successfully created a substantially heavier Schrödinger cat by putting a small crystal into a superposition of two oscillation states. The resulting 'cat' weighs around 16 micrograms, making it the fattest quantum cat to date.
Researchers found that high-dose VE303 prevented recurrent C. difficile infection compared to placebo, suggesting a potential new treatment approach. A larger phase 3 study is needed to confirm these findings.
Researchers developed an AI-based method for virtual staining of histopathological tissue samples, producing images that closely resemble actual chemical-stained samples. This reduces chemical burden and manual work while enabling the use of tissues for other purposes.
A WPI researcher is leading a three-year project to investigate the effects of stretching and blood flow on cardiovascular cells in tissue-engineered heart valves. The project aims to expand understanding of mechanical forces that propel cells in the body, with potential applications in other fields like cancer and wound healing.
Researchers discovered that ocular drifts, tiny jitters in the eyes, can be influenced by prior knowledge of expected visual targets, indicating a surprising level of cognitive control. This study adds to our understanding of how vision is controlled and directed by cognitive processes.
Researchers found that dexamethasone prevents cytokine storms in severe COVID-19 patients by inhibiting ion channels and reducing immune cell inflammation. This led to improved lung function and reduced mortality rates. The study's findings provide new insights into the mechanisms of steroid treatment in severe COVID-19.
Researchers developed a hybrid micro-robot that can navigate in physiological environments and capture targeted damaged cells. The micro-robot uses electric and magnetic mechanisms to identify and transport single cells for further study.
A WVU researcher is working on a biopsychosocial intervention to help people with chronic hip pain move and regain mobility. The intervention, called HIPS, combines mindfulness techniques like self-compassion and progressive relaxation with goal-setting and diaphragmatic breathing to reduce pain and increase physical activity.
A recent review article highlights the significant impact of cancer on Hispanic patients and their caregivers, citing communication barriers, financial difficulties, and sociocultural issues. The study estimates 126,000 new cancer cases diagnosed yearly in Hispanics, placing a substantial burden on family members and friends.
The DART mission successfully deflected the orbit of asteroid Dimorphos by 33 minutes. The team's calculations showed that the momentum transferred to Dimorphos was significantly enhanced by the recoil created from streams of particles produced by the impact, exceeding initial expectations.
Researchers used unconventional methods to study fruit fly phenotypes, finding that loss of epigenetic mark led to changes in behavior, gene expression, metabolism, and offspring production. This knowledge can aid in predicting ecological patterns of change in wild animal populations.
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 team of biostatisticians created a framework to evaluate the congruence and discordance of laboratory animals with specific human diseases. The tool removes bias from scientific interpretation of animal data for human conditions, revealing that some models mimic biological mechanisms well while others poorly.
A study by OHSU researchers found that immunity from COVID-19 gathers strength over time, indicating that vaccination should not be delayed. The study suggests that vaccine boosters can be spaced no more frequently than a year apart among healthy individuals.
Biomarkers of bone turnover are essential for diagnosing and treating metabolic musculoskeletal diseases. The International Osteoporosis Foundation, IFCC, and ESCEO have collaborated to publish authoritative reviews on the use and interpretation of these biomarkers.
Researchers have identified the need for standardization of performance indices and a single frame for normalization methods to address concerns with bioelectrochemical systems. The study proposes strategies for up-scaling BES technologies, enabling resource recovery through on-site treatment of wastewater at an efficiency comparable t...
Researchers found that abnormal methylation processes lead to disruption of gene expression essential for brain development in people with Williams syndrome. The study suggests targeting treatments to correct these disruptions.
Researchers discovered that ketamine increases background noise, impairing the function of thalamo-cortical neurons and affecting sensory perception. This finding may contribute to a better understanding of psychosis in schizophrenia.
Researchers have created a hydrogel-based material that can absorb up to three times more water-based liquid than traditional paper towels. The gel sheets also show promise in absorbing thick liquids, such as blood and syrup, with high efficiency and stability.
The NASA Deep Space Optical Communications project has successfully demonstrated a new type of laser system that can transmit large amounts of data, including high-definition images and video, through space. The system uses a combination of flight and ground-based lasers to establish an optical link between spacecraft and Earth.
Researchers developed a new lidar technique using 3D flash lidar combined with super-resolution algorithm for hazard avoidance during landing. The technique improved the precision and safety of robotic vehicles on Mars, enabling them to navigate through challenging environments.
A Rutgers study found that COVID-19 patients, especially those treated with antibiotics, experience significant disruptions in their gut microbiome balance. This imbalance may lead to the development of targeted probiotic supplements to improve treatment outcomes.
Researchers at the University Hospital Bonn have discovered a new function of CRISPR/Cas9 gene scissors, which produce small signal molecules that bind to proteins, activating an emergency response. This discovery opens up new possibilities for treating diseases using CRISPR technology.
Researchers at UCI have discovered that sound waves can disrupt the safe operation of negative pressure rooms, a space designed to protect against deadly pathogens. They found that manipulating airflow using a specific frequency can cause malfunction and leakage of microbes.
A new study analyzed tumor biopsies from patients with newly-diagnosed germinal center B cell lymphoma and found that CREBBP mutations were associated with lower disease-free survival rates. The researchers identified CLMA as a practical tool to translate experimental findings into clinical applications.
Researchers evaluated modified CEUS using perfluorobutane for diagnosing hepatocellular carcinoma in high-risk patients. The study found no significant difference in sensitivity, specificity, or accuracy between modified CEUS and CT/MRI LI-RADS v2018.
The discovery pushes back the timeline of pre-Neanderthal hominins in Europe by 200,000 years, with the site yielding over 300 well-preserved footprints. The findings have significant implications for our understanding of human evolution and dispersal in the Middle Pleistocene.
A handheld diagnostic lab developed by UCLA researchers can fully automate pooled testing and detect multiple diseases, reducing costs and usage of scarce supplies. The technology can be easily manufactured, deployed, and performed at a doctor's office or mass testing sites, helping authorities prepare for future pandemics.
A study by Children's Hospital of Philadelphia researchers found that COVID-19 vaccination results in higher antibody concentrations compared to natural infection, providing robust protection for mothers during pregnancy. The study also suggests optimal vaccine timing can maximize the transfer of antibodies to babies.
The West Texas Pharmacology Core laboratory at TTUHSC will focus on two primary areas: drug development and pediatric cancer. The core aims to address obstacles in drug development, including limited pharmacology expertise for small biotech companies and low profitability for pediatric cancer drugs.
Researchers have identified a new gene, NUCL-1, in the transparent roundworm C. elegans, which is linked to human neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS and Alzheimer's. The discovery challenges recent theories on the role of nuclear structures in these disorders.
A higher urine-to-plasma urea ratio is associated with faster decline in eGFR and development of kidney failure in patients with common forms of CKD. This biomarker may improve risk prediction, particularly in low-cost, easily measurable assays.
Researchers at Jacobs University have found that a compound in coffee, 5-caffeoylquinic acid, can inhibit the interaction between the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and the ACE-2 receptor, potentially providing protection against COVID-19. The study's findings suggest that regular coffee drinkers may be less likely to contract the virus.
The SwRI experiment helped predict the effects of NASA's DART impact on asteroid Dimorphos. The study assessed ejecta momentum enhancement created by the space probe's collision, measuring a 3.4-fold increase in momentum transfer.
Research found a hospital code response team arrives at least one minute quicker and leads to better patient outcomes with smartphone emergency code notification systems. The study used a secure texting system that connected with electronic medical records, reducing conventional methods' average delay of 78 seconds.
A Tel Aviv University study reveals that the Israeli shoreline is contaminated with more than two million tons of microplastics, with Tel Aviv and Hadera beaches being the most polluted. The researchers warn that exposure to microplastic waste is unavoidable and poses a risk to human health.
McCullough's research advances the field of cardiovascular science, with a primary focus on sex differences in stroke. Her work has led to significant discoveries about cell death pathways during ischemic insults.
A Tel Aviv University study shows that pressure chamber therapy can improve social skills and reduce neuroinflammation in the autistic brain. The treatment, which involves high-pressure chambers with oxygen enrichment, was found to increase blood and oxygen supply to the brain, leading to improved brain function and social behavior.
Researchers found that centenarians have a lower epigenetic age than expected, suggesting slowed biological aging. The study used four epigenetic clocks based on small CpG sites to reveal these differences.
A new experimental device has been developed to generate temperature gradients on a microtiter plate, allowing for the simultaneous testing of different temperatures. This innovation solves a common challenge in biological studies of living cells, unlocking new possibilities for studying cellular growth and development.
A recent poll reveals that 48% of people aged 50-80 have purchased at least one home health test, including COVID-19 and DNA tests. Notably, 82% of older adults express interest in future medical tests at home, while 90% agree to share results with their healthcare provider.
Researchers discovered that plasmids can linger in the nose of lab workers for weeks, interfering with clinical diagnostic tests. The study highlights the importance of considering occupational exposure in diagnosis and treatment.
The USC COMPASS program aims to recruit and support students from historically underrepresented backgrounds to pursue careers in regenerative medicine. Scholars will receive a minor in Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, as well as paid summer internships and mentorship opportunities.
A Cornell research team synthesized 16 types of rock surfaces that may form on exoplanets, providing a tool to decipher their composition. The study's findings offer clues to early planetary evolution and the chemical makeup of distant planets.
Researchers developed an electronic laboratory notebook that uses knowledge graphs to describe material properties and experimental processes. The platform enables automated analysis, lossless sharing, and discovery of new materials with potential applications in energy-related devices.
A new study finds that lab adaptation involves mutations to highly conserved proteins, but natural adaptation exhibits more complex patterns, including non-conservation within functional domains. Lab conditions differ significantly from natural environments with variable and changing selective pressures.
Researchers from Johns Hopkins Medicine and Dana Farber Cancer Institute found that irisin reduces levels of a protein linked to Parkinson's disease and halts movement problems in mice. Irisin also speeds up the transport and degradation of alpha synuclein via fluid-filled sacs called lysosomes in brain cells.
Coronavirus levels in wastewater accurately predicted hospitalization peaks and healthcare pressure, enabling timely forecasting. The study's results demonstrate the value of virus surveillance in monitoring ongoing outbreaks.
Researchers have identified two effective antibodies that neutralize all known strains of COVID-19, including Delta and Omicron variants. These breakthrough antibodies could eliminate the need for repeated booster vaccinations and strengthen immune systems, especially in at-risk populations.
A Tel Aviv University study challenges the widely-held assumption that COVID-19 originated from bats, instead highlighting their highly effective immune system. The researchers found that many reported findings on bat-borne viruses are based on antibody presence or PCR tests rather than actual virus isolation.
The Association for Molecular Pathology has published consensus recommendations for clinical TPMT and NUDT15 genotyping assays, promoting standardization across laboratories. The report identifies a minimum set of alleles to include in clinical tests, enabling healthcare professionals to provide high-quality patient care.