Everyday clothing may soon be able to capture and record body movements according to new research published by the Universities of Bristol and Bath.
Month: July 2024
By Mimicking Cicada Wings, Scientists Are Investigating New Ways to Keep Patients Safe
Cicada’s cries ring out in the hot air and their discarded exoskeletons decorate tree branches in the southeast and midwest United States at the height of summer. While their ability to emerge in huge numbers is astounding, they have other surprising features too. In fact, their wings kill bacteria on contact and are self-cleaning. Researchers using the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Brookhaven National Laboratory user facilities investigated this bizarre phenomenon. They learned how structures in the cells are able to pull off such a feat and how it could be used in medical applications.
Broken Bone? An Orthopedic Trauma Surgeon’s Best Advice for a Good Medical Outcome
Nicholas Sama, MD, director of Orthopedic Trauma at HSS Florida, the West Palm Beach location of Hospital for Special Surgery, offers advice to give patients the best chance for proper treatment, healthy healing and a good medical outcome following a bone fracture.
Scientists Gain New Molecular-Level Insights into Breaking Down Plant Material for Biofuels
To produce biofuels from nonedible plants, researchers can use cellulase to break down plant cellulose into glucose, which can be fermented to generate bioethanol. Researchers have now used a specialized optical microscope to visualize single cellulase enzymes interacting with different forms of cellulose. This allowed them to investigate enzyme function in the presence of the product of the reaction and other components of plant biomass.
ACSM to release 18th annual ranking of the 100 fittest cities in America
WHAT The American College of Sports Medicine® (ACSM) will release its 18th annual ranking of the 100 fittest cities in America. Based on 33 evidence-based indicators, this year’s ranking will assess how individuals and communities are working together to facilitate…
NIH researchers discover a new face-detecting brain circuit
Scientists at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have uncovered a brain circuit in primates that rapidly detects faces. The findings help not only explain how primates sense and recognize faces, but could also have implications for understanding conditions such as autism, where face detection and recognition are often impaired from early childhood.
What Was Behind the 2021-2022 Energy Crisis Within Europe?
A team of researchers had already been working with electricity price data for years before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, exploring statistics and developing forecasting methods. Now they zero in on how prices in different countries relate and how countries were affected by the energy crisis and address the interdependencies of different markets.
What You Eat at Age 40 Could Influence Your Quality of Life at 70
A new study found that fewer than 1 in 10 people were able to live free of disease and maintain good physical, cognitive and mental health to age 70 and beyond. The study suggests that sticking to a healthy diet in midlife could increase your chance of achieving healthy aging.
Mercy Medical Center First in Mid-Atlantic Region to Offer Orthopedic Patients New Mixed Reality Technology Platform for Shoulder Surgery
Nationally recognized for orthopedic surgery, Mercy Medical Center is now the first in the mid-Atlantic region to offer shoulder arthroplasty using a new mixed reality technology platform known as Blueprint Mixed Reality (MR) Guidance, developed by Stryker, one of the world’s leading medical technology companies.
Newswise Live Press Conference: Mercy Medical Center First in Mid-Atlantic Region to Offer Orthopedic Patients New Mixed Reality Technology Platform for Shoulder Surgery
Live, virtual press briefing with Mercy Medical Center surgeon Dr. Gregory Gasbarro, to discuss the advanced new surgical technique using mixed reality to assist in the operating room.
Machine learning could aid efforts to answer long-standing astrophysical questions
PPPL physicists have developed a computer program incorporating machine learning that could help identify blobs of plasma in outer space known as plasmoids. In a novel twist, the program has been trained using simulated data.
KIER Develops ‘Viologen Redox Flow Battery’ to Replace Vanadium.’
Dr. Seunghae Hwang’s research team from the Energy Storage Research Department at the Korea Institute of Energy Research has successfully enhanced the performance and cycle life of redox flow batteries, a prominent large-capacity energy storage device, by introducing functional groups that replace the active materials and improve solubility and stability
American Indian/Alaska Native patients less likely to undergo breast reconstruction
American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) women with breast cancer have consistently lower rates of breast reconstruction after mastectomy compared to non-Hispanic White women, reports a paper in the July issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery®, the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).
Mass production will soon make ultra-large nano transparent screens accessible to everyone
Newly developed nano transparent screen can be mass-produced at one-tenth the cost of existing screens…Viewers can watch high-definition video footages from multiple angles
ASU receives $4.5M grant to educate the next generation of cybersecurity professionals
The American Cybersecurity Education Initiative will develop a master’s degree in cybersecurity systems at the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering at Arizona State University.
Eating More Soy Foods Could Improve Thinking and Attention in Kids
A new study found that school-aged children who consumed more isoflavones from soy foods exhibited better thinking abilities and attention. These findings pave the way for future research aimed at unraveling how soy foods can positively impact children’s cognitive abilities.
Pregnant pause? Elite athletes challenge norms and perceptions when expecting
New research from the University of South Australia has found that contrary to common concerns, elite athletes often report fewer pregnancy-related complaints (compared to non-athletes) and often displayed improved athletic performance after giving birth.
Two Researchers to Receive First-Ever Ralph L. Sacco Scholarships for Brain Health
The American Academy of Neurology and the American Heart Association have awarded the first-ever Ralph L. Sacco Scholarships for Brain Health to two researchers, Patrick Devlin, Ph.D., of Houston, Texas, and Cyprien Rivier, M.D., M.Sc., of New Haven, Connecticut. Each will receive a $150,000 two-year scholarship to support continuing scientific research in brain health. Devlin and Rivier also receive the honor of being named the inaugural “Sacco Scholars.”
A new target for treatment of one type of macular degeneration
A new study in mice hints at the promise of an eventual alternative treatment option for the “wet” version of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
ACA Invites Media to Structural Science Meeting in Denver, July 7-12
The 74th ACA Meeting will take place July 7-12 at the Denver Marriott Tech Center. From developing new drugs, to engineering novel materials for electronics, to guiding unprecedented vaccines and biological insights, ACA2024 will highlight the golden future for structural science and bring together a diverse community of experts from around the world to share scientific discoveries and advancements that impact economies, health care, and everyday understanding of the natural world.
New method cracked for high-capacity, secure quantum communication
Scientists are developing a method for transmitting quantum information over long distances using particles of light called qudits. These special qudits encode information in a way that makes them resistant to errors and allows for faster data transfer. The technique uses two properties of light – spatial mode and polarization – to create four-dimensional qudits that can be manipulated with high precision. This paves the way for a robust and powerful quantum internet.
Unlocking the grape’s secret: how wounding boosts anthocyanin defenses
A recent study sheds light on the biochemical response of grapevines to wounding stress. It reveals that the transcription factor VvWRKY5 is a key regulator that enhances anthocyanin production, which serves as a protective mechanism for the plant.
Unveiling the genetic secrets of Musa ornata and Musa velutina: insights into pericarp dehiscence and anthocyanin biosynthesis
In a pioneering study, researchers have completed the chromosome-level genome assemblies for Musa ornata and Musa velutina, shedding light on the genetic underpinnings of pericarp dehiscence and anthocyanin biosynthesis in bananas.
Soybean seed hardness demystified: key genes and networks uncovered
Soybean seed hardness, a key factor in consumer acceptance and vegetable soybean quality, has been elucidated through a comprehensive study. Researchers identified the genetic and molecular mechanisms influencing this trait, focusing on differential gene expression during seed development. The discovery of the GmSWEET2 gene as a significant regulator of hardness offers a pathway to enhance soybean texture, potentially revolutionizing the market with customized varieties to suit diverse consumer preferences.
Large variations in composition and toxicity of ambient particles found in 31 major cities in China
In an effort looking for optimized air pollution control, scientists from Peking University have detected large variations in the composition and toxicity of ambient particles collected from 31 major Chinese cities located across varying latitudes. The results imply an urgent need to rethink the suitability of current air quality standard adopted, i.e., sole use of PM mass concentration.
Bradley Erford Named Incoming Editor of American Counseling Association’s Flagship Journal
Bradley T. Erford, PhD, a Vanderbilt University professor and expert on psychoeducational tests and counseling outcomes research, has been named incoming editor of the Journal of Counseling & Development, a publication of the American Counseling Association.
Unlocking iron homeostasis: apple plants reveal key mechanism
A pivotal study has uncovered the intricate dance between calcium signaling and iron regulation in apple plants. The research reveals how the calmodulin-like protein MdCML15 and the BTB domain protein MdBT2 interact to control iron homeostasis, offering new strategies for improving crop nutrition and yields. This discovery could transform agricultural practices by addressing the widespread issue of iron deficiency in crops, which significantly impacts both plant health and food production.
Drugs that kill “zombie” cells may benefit some older women, but not all, Mayo Clinic study finds
Drugs that selectively kill senescent cells may benefit otherwise healthy older women but are not a “one-size-fits-all” remedy, Mayo Clinic researchers have found. Specifically, these drugs may only benefit people with a high number of senescent cells, according to findings publishing July 2 in Nature Medicine.
Novel diagnostics for kidney stones
The best way to treat kidney stones depends on how what they are composed of and how they are shaped. Empa researchers are now working on a painless diagnostic procedure using dark-field X-ray imaging. This innovative technology makes it possible to determine the structure and composition of the stones for each patient.
‘Healthy’ workplaces a vital factor in clawing back billions of dollars lost to workplace injuries and illness
A new study published this week shows how the global economy could claw back billions of dollars lost each year due to workplace injuries and illness.
Will the Paris 2024 Olympics be a platform for activist protests amid global tensions?
Ahead of the Paris Olympics kicking off this month and amidst the current UEFA (Union of European Football Associations) European Football Championship (Euro 2024), researchers are asking – should sport be a platform for promoting social justice issues?
Switch up teaching and assessment to combat chatbot-cheating
It’s the chatbot technology that can write an essay in a second, but despite its vast capabilities, generative AI is creating headaches for education, particularly when it comes to student integrity and cheating.
Ocean acidification turns fish off coral reefs
A new study of coral reefs in Papua New Guinea shows ocean acidification simplifies coral structure, making crucial habitat less appealing to certain fish species.
Herpes Infections Take Major Economic Toll Globally, New Research Shows
The first-ever global estimate of the economic costs of genital herpes infections shows billions of dollars of health care expenditures and productivity losses.
Scientists create world’s most amazingly difficult maze with future potential to boost carbon capture
In new research physicists have wielded the power of chess to design a group of intricate mazes, which could ultimately be used to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Three Argonne postdocs invited to prestigious meeting of Nobel laureates
Three Argonne postdoc scientists have been invited to the prestigious Nobel Laureate Meetings in Lindau, Germany, where they will meet with past Nobel Prize winners in their fields.
Either ACEi or ARB therapy protect against kidney failure in those with advanced CKD
A systematic review and retrospective individual participant-level meta-analysis of 18 trials comprised of more than 1,700 participants found that initiating treatment with an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEi) or angiotensin-receptor blocker (ARB) protects against kidney failure in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Want to Stay Mentally Sharp Longer? Eat a Healthy Diet Now
Eating a high-quality diet in youth and middle age could help keep your brain functioning well in your senior years, according to new preliminary findings from a study that used data collected from over 3,000 people followed for nearly seven decades.
Medication choice may affect weight gain when initiating antidepressant treatment
A target trial emulation study found small differences in short- and longer-term mean weight change among patients initiating treatment with one of 8 first-line antidepressants. Among the medications included in the trial, bupropion was consistently associated with the least weight gain. T
Acupuncture may relieve pain-specific disability in people with spinal stenosis
A randomized clinical trial across 5 hospitals in China found that acupuncture may relieve pain-specific disability among patients with degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis (DLSS) and predominantly neurogenic claudication, pain in the buttocks and/or legs that is aggravated by walking or prolonged standing.
Study Suggests States Could Cut Healthcare Costs by Delivering Patient Tailored Meals
According to new research looking at every U.S. state, programs that deliver medically tailored meals (MTMs) to people with diet-sensitive conditions such as diabetes and heart disease along with limitations in the ability to perform daily activities could lead to substantial savings in healthcare costs.
July 2024 Issue of Neurosurgical Focus: “Concussion and Return to Play”
Announcement of contents of the July 2024 issue of Neurosurgical Focus
New UAV-Based Method Enhances Wheat Uniformity Monitoring and Yield Prediction
A research team has developed an innovative method to quantify wheat uniformity using unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imaging technology.
A Research Team Develops Hyperspectral Library for Rice Nutrient Stress, Achieving Up to 100% Accuracy with Deep Learning
A research team has developed a hyperspectral library for 14 NPK nutrient stress conditions in rice, using a terrestrial hyperspectral camera to collect and analyze 420 rice stress images.
Advanced DeepLabv3+ Algorithm Enhances Safflower Filament Harvesting with High Accuracy
A research team has developed an improved DeepLabv3+ algorithm for accurately detecting and localizing safflower filament picking points.
Mount Sinai Expands Center for Post-COVID Care to Serve Patients in East Harlem and South Bronx
$5 million grant from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality will enhance long COVID care for underserved minority groups, community outreach, and research
Rutgers Researchers Examine How Fungal Toxins Impact Hormones in Pregnancy
Estrogen-mimicking fungal metabolites in widely found foods consumed by pregnant people (and everyone else).
Ochsner Medical Center – Baton Rouge performs robotic-assisted lung biopsy
Ochsner Medical Center – Baton Rouge now offers robotic-assisted bronchoscopy using the Ion robotic platform, a new, minimally invasive option for lung biopsy.
Announcing Stephen Jameson, Ph.D., as 2024-2025 President of the American Association of Immunologists
The American Association of Immunologists (AAI)
proudly announces Stephen Jameson, Ph.D., as its 2024-2025 president following his election to the office this past spring. Jameson, a distinguished immunologist, has been a member of the AAI Council since 2019 and will assume his new role on July 1, 2024.
Gut microbiome – the key to our pets’ health and happiness?
This review highlights diverse influences of the gut microbiome on gastrointestinal, behavioral, cardiovascular, and immune health in cats and dogs as these health outcomes have the strongest evidence to indicate a role of the microbiome. We first look at local…