Aggressive immune cells aggravate Parkinson's disease
Researchers at FAU found that immune cells in Parkinson's patients, specifically T-cells, kill nerve cells producing dopamine. Antibodies blocking Th17 cells offer hope for new treatment methods.
Science News Archive 2018
Browse by Month - 2018
Page 213 of 473
No refuge in the deep for shallow reef ecosystems
A new report suggests that deep water coral reefs are not refuges for shallow reef organisms and require protection. The study found that mesophotic coral reefs have their own independent communities with little species overlap between depth zones.
The Lancet: Response to HIV/AIDS epidemic at risk of 'dangerous complacency' as urgent change in approach is needed
The HIV pandemic is not on track to end by 2030 and current approaches are insufficient. A new Lancet Commission calls for collaboration between researchers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to win the global fight against HIV.
New training platform for big data analysis
A new online training platform is being developed to address the lack of bioinformatics and statistics knowledge among researchers in the life sciences. The Galaxy Europe project aims to provide interactive tutorials using real datasets, aiming to improve data science methods use.
Most common shoulder operation is no more beneficial than placebo surgery
A new study published in The BMJ found that decompression surgery for shoulder impingement syndrome offers no greater relief from pain than placebo surgery. Two years after the procedure, patients in both groups experienced equally little shoulder pain and were equally satisfied with their situation.
Princeton-UPenn research team finds physics treasure hidden in a wallpaper pattern
A research team from Princeton University and the University of Pennsylvania has discovered a new, exotic form of insulating material with a metallic surface. The team used mathematical properties like symmetry to analyze existing chemical compounds and identified a novel topological insulator with a single pair of Dirac cones.
Disney Animation to premiere first VR short at SIGGRAPH 2018
Walt Disney Animation Studios premieres its first VR short film Cycles at SIGGRAPH 2018, exploring the true meaning of creating a home and the life within. The film utilizes innovative techniques such as Quill VR painting and motion capture to bring the story to life in immersive virtual reality.
From cradles to graves: Modeling the ecology and evolution of biodiversity
Researchers created a model to simulate biodiversity history in South America over thousands of years, closely matching observed patterns. The model's results suggest topography and climate play critical roles in species diversification and extinction.
Ohio Professor Hua earns prestigious NSF grant
Professor Hua's five-year $1.09 million grant will focus on F-box-mediated protein degradation in seed development, aiming to develop precision agriculture through manipulating the ubiquitin-26S proteasome system. The project also aims to promote computational thinking skills among underrepresented students.
Neural inflammation plays critical role in stress-induced depression
Researchers found that neural inflammation caused by innate immune system triggers depressive behavior through activation of microglia and expression of inflammation-related cytokines. This discovery could lead to the development of new antidepressants targeting innate immune molecules.
Enzyme identified as possible novel drug target for sickle cell disease, Thalassemia
Scientists have discovered a protein called HRI that regulates hemoglobin production in red blood cells, potentially leading to a breakthrough treatment for sickle cell disease. Blocking the activity of this enzyme reduces characteristic sickling and improves red blood cell function.
Caffeine affects food intake at breakfast, but its effect is limited and transient
A new study published in Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that caffeine reduces food intake by 10% at breakfast, but this effect does not persist throughout the day. The study also showed no impact on participants' perceptions of their appetites.
Learning from 'Little Monsters'
A recent study by UCSB researcher David Herbst explores the connection between benthic invertebrates and stream water flow. The research, published in Hydrobiologia, sheds light on how these organisms sort out and change with stream dynamics. This new understanding has significant implications for water quality monitoring programs.
Building blocks of life
Researchers at Shinshu University have developed proteins that can self-assemble into complex nanostructures, a breakthrough in biomolecular engineering and synthetic biology. The new protein complexes can be designed to produce various chain-like structures on demand, opening up possibilities for innovative applications in biotechnology.
New particles are formed also in the polluted air of major cities
Researchers discovered a mechanism for forming nanometre-sized ultrafine particles in polluted air, involving sulphuric acid and dimethylamine. The study, published in Science, uses advanced measuring equipment developed by the University of Helsinki's Atmospheric Science department.
Are vision impairments more frequent among children with developmental dyslexia?
A recent study published in JAMA Ophthalmology found that children with developmental dyslexia are more prone to visual deficits than their typically developing peers. Visual function deficiencies were common among the children with dyslexia, suggesting a potential link between vision processing and reading difficulties.
Scientists uncover the role of a protein in production & survival of myelin-forming cells
Researchers at ASRC uncover the role of PRMT5 in myelin production, finding it essential for oligodendrocyte differentiation and cell survival. The study provides new insights into myelin formation mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies for treating CNS diseases.
In a warming climate, Arctic geese are rushing north
Barnacle geese accelerate their 3,000-kilometer migration in response to rising Arctic temperatures. However, the birds' early arrival is often offset by a recovery period that delays egg-laying, resulting in reduced gosling survival rates.
Monkeys benefit from the nut-cracking abilities of chimpanzees and hogs
Mangabey monkeys scavenge on nuts cracked by chimpanzees and hogs, accessing food sources not available otherwise. This behavior suggests elevated vigilance among mangabeys at these sites, potentially due to perceived predation risk.
The effectiveness of chlorhexidine is limited in preventing infections in oral procedures
A systematic review and meta-analysis of random controlled trials found that chlorhexidine mouthwash reduces bacteraemia by only 12%, indicating its relatively low effectiveness. Despite this, the researchers recommend using a mouthwash with chlorhexidine before dental procedures due to its low cost and lack of adverse reactions.
Reversing cause and effect is no trouble for quantum computers
Researchers found that quantum models can entirely mitigate the memory overhead required to model data in reverse, outperforming classical models. This discovery has profound implications for our understanding of time and its arrow.
Traveling to the sun: Why won't Parker Solar Probe melt?
The Parker Solar Probe will travel closer to the Sun than any mission before it, providing unprecedented observations of the corona. Despite temperatures exceeding a million degrees Fahrenheit, the spacecraft will withstand due to its custom heat shield and autonomous system.
Fruit fly species can learn each other's dialects
Researchers found that fruit fly species from different backgrounds can communicate more effectively when they cohabitate and learn each other's visual and scent cues. The study suggests that variation in communication ability between species may be analogous to dialects, which can be alleviated through socialization.
Association of monthly high-dose vitamin D supplementation and cancer risk
A randomized clinical trial found that monthly high-dose vitamin D supplementation without calcium did not reduce cancer risk among adults. The study analyzed data from 2,558 participants who received the supplement and 2,550 participants in a placebo group.
Food for thought: How the brain reacts to food may be linked to overeating
A study found that children who have a stronger brain response to food rewards are more likely to overeat, even when not hungry. The research suggests a way to identify brain responses that can predict obesity development and may help prevent overeating at an earlier age.
Low-cost formulas in the manufacturing of non-stick food molds
A new technique has been developed to manufacture non-stick food molds at a lower cost and with ease. The method involves transforming metal sheets covered in teflon and PVC into the desired shape using a punch guided by a computer, resulting in functional molds.
Targeting headaches and tumors with nano-submarines
Scientists have developed a new method to attach drug-filled nanocarriers to immune cells, which can attack tumors, leading to improved targeted treatment. This breakthrough, published in Nature Nanotechnology, shows that the method is more efficient than traditional chemical bonding methods.
Analytical tool predicts genes that can cause disease by producing altered proteins
A team of researchers has developed an analytical tool to predict genes that can cause disease due to the production of truncated or altered proteins. The tool identified 252 candidate 'disease genes,' some of which have already been linked to disease in previous studies, supporting its effectiveness.
US opioid prescribing rates by congressional district
A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that congressional districts in the southeastern US and Appalachia have the highest opioid prescribing rates. These areas were followed closely by rural west states. On the other hand, districts near urban centers tend to have lower prescribing rates.
Taking the lead toward witchweed control
Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST) have developed the first specific inhibitor for uncontrollable plant pest Striga hermonthica, a parasitic plant affecting global food security. The breakthrough discovery uses a binding molecule to inhibit seed germination.
Pitt engineer awarded $390,000 to develop imaging tech that may improve brain implant design
Bioengineering professor TK Kozai is developing in vivo imaging technology to investigate the role of oligodendrocytes and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells in chronic brain implant degradation. This research aims to identify targets for intervention strategies to improve device performance.
Viruses cooperate to overcome immune defences of bacteria
Research reveals phages work together to overcome CRISPR-Cas, a key breakthrough for improving phage therapy to treat life-threatening bacterial infections. The study shows that a high number of viral particles can overwhelm bacterial defenses, leading to the establishment of an infection in bacterial populations.
Oil biodegradation inhibited in deep-sea sediments
Degradation rates of oil were slower in the dark and cold waters of the Gulf of Mexico than at surface conditions. Oil biodegradation rates decreased by 4 percent for every 328 feet of increase in water depth, with complete degradation taking 42 days in sediments deeper than 3280 feet.
Analysis of prostate tumors reveals clues to cancer's aggressiveness
Scientists have identified genetic errors common in metastatic prostate tumors, including alterations in the androgen receptor region. The study found that about 80% of aggressive tumors had similar genetic changes, which could lead to new treatment options for patients with aggressive forms of prostate cancer.
Chemists characterize the fatal fungus among us
Researchers at LSU have characterized the cell wall structure of Aspergillus fumigatus, a fatal fungus affecting over 200,000 people annually. The high-resolution architecture reveals a semi-waterproof core and sugar-protein mixture, providing molecular basis for engineering effective antifungal drugs.
Relax, just break it
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory used novel tools to study local order in relaxor ferroelectrics, revealing a correlation between butterfly-shaped diffuse scattering and piezoelectric behavior. This discovery could lead to the development of non-lead-based materials with improved properties.
Two faces offer limitless possibilities
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have developed a new way to chemically deposit a second face on Janus membranes, resulting in more robust and precisely structured membranes. This breakthrough could help optimize or enable various industrial processes, including wastewater treatment and biofuel production.
New study puts a figure on sea-level rise following Antarctic ice shelves' collapse
A new study published in The Cryosphere estimates that the collapse of Larsen C and George VI Ice Shelves could contribute 4mm and 22mm to global sea levels, respectively. This research highlights the vulnerability of these ice shelves to rapid warming in the Antarctic Peninsula.
Women chemistry professors discuss motherhood and career in new book
A collection of 40 personal accounts from women chemists in academia provide inspiration to future generations, highlighting the barriers women face in academia. The book aims to raise awareness and inspire female students to consider an academic career in science.
Study: ADHD drugs do not improve cognition in healthy college students
A study by University of Rhode Island and Brown University researchers found that ADHD medications did not improve cognition in healthy college students, but instead impaired working memory. The medication did show attention and focus improvements, but these effects failed to translate to better performance on neurocognitive tasks.
Cold fronts may increase stroke mortality
A study in São Paulo City found that falling temperatures correlate with rising numbers of deaths from stroke, particularly among over-65s. Lower temperatures are a risk factor for hemorrhagic stroke, especially among women.
App, brief intervention may be lifesaver for suicidal teens
A new app-based intervention has shown promising results in reducing suicidal attempts among teenagers after hospital discharge. The BRITE app, part of a brief three-hour program, prompts daily mood ratings and offers personalized recovery strategies to equip teens with coping skills.
'Good cholesterol' may not always be good
A study of 1,138 postmenopausal women found that higher HDL cholesterol did not lower cardiovascular disease risk, but rather masked a significant heart disease risk. Small HDL particles were beneficial for these women, while large particles increased risk.
A smart safe rechargeable zinc ion battery based on sol-gel transition electrolytes
Researchers developed a temperature-sensitive sol-gel transition electrolyte that inhibits zinc ion migration, shutting down the battery to prevent thermal runaway. After cooling, the electrolyte transitions back to its liquid state, restoring original electrochemical performance.
Mayo Clinic researchers uncover methods to quantify the yips and golfer's cramp
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have identified a neurological cause for the yips in golfers, which can be measured using quantitative methods. The study found that five out of 27 golfers had a neurologic cause for their condition, with greater acceleration of wrist and arm movement and more variability in wrist acceleration and rotation.
Why does making new egg cells require so much cell death?
Researchers found that roundworms create oocytes with two nuclei but destroy them through apoptosis, recycling mitochondrial material into new eggs. This process helps understand why animals target so many cells for destruction during egg formation.
Robots working as a group are able to determine the optimal order of their tasks
Researchers at ULB's IRIDIA laboratory have shown that robots can emerge with the ability to correctly order tasks, enabling complex missions such as disaster rescue. This breakthrough demonstrates a complex cognitive skill emerging from group interactions, paving the way for autonomous robot swarms in various applications.
New battery could store wind and solar electricity affordably and at room temperature
A new type of flow battery developed by Stanford researchers uses a liquid metal at room temperature to store renewable energy from wind or solar sources. The technology has the potential to deliver energy quickly and affordably, with possibilities for further improvement in terms of cost, efficiency, size, and safety.
The puzzling problems of urban particle formation
Researchers in Shanghai discovered new particles formed in polluted air, defying expectations and highlighting the need for emission reductions to mitigate climate change. The study provides new insights into urban particle formation (NPF) and its role in affecting local and global air quality.
Newly discovered armored dinosaur from Utah reveals intriguing family history
The newly discovered Akainacephalus species from Utah is found to be closely related to Asian ankylosaurids, contradicting the prevailing view of its North American origins. Its unique armor arrangement suggests a distinct provincialism in Laramidia during the Late Campanian stage.
Australia led global push to tackle PCOS -- the principal cause of infertility in women
New guidelines and resources have been published globally to address the complexities of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), affecting up to 13% of reproductive-age women. The initiative aims to improve diagnosis, treatment, and health outcomes for women with PCOS.
Origami-inspired device enables easy capture, release of delicate underwater organisms
A new device inspired by origami design safely traps soft-bodied sea creatures and releases them unharmed. The Rotary Actuated Dodecahedron (RAD) sampler has been successfully tested in the ocean at depths of 1,600-2,300 feet, capturing squid and jellyfish without causing harm.
Oregon researchers say sea pickles are adapting to the Pacific Northwest
Researchers discover pyrosomes, known as 'sea pickles,' are thriving in colder waters off the Oregon coast, potentially disrupting regional fishing operations and food webs. The invasive species may be capitalizing on nutrient-poor conditions to feed on plankton, leading to systemic changes in the ecosystem.
Disparities in cancer mortality rates among minority subpopulations in NY
A study analyzing NY state cancer death data from 2008-2014 found high mortality rates among U.S.-born blacks and Puerto Ricans, while South American Hispanics had relatively low rates. The researchers also identified significant disparities in liver cancer mortality between these groups.
NASA's Aqua Satellite finds a more organized, large Tropical Storm Ampil
Tropical Storm Ampil appeared more organized than expected with powerful thunderstorms surrounding the center of circulation. The storm is forecast to intensify and pass near Kadena Air Base, Okinawa Island, Japan on July 20.
How plant breeding technologies could make fruits and vegetables more exciting to eat
Plant breeding technologies using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing can alter MYB genes to increase compounds that generate flavor and color in fruits and vegetables. This technology can inform conventional breeding programs and create products with consistent nutrient distribution.
Low/no calorie soft drinks linked to improved outcomes in advanced colon cancer patients
A Yale University study found that drinking artificially-sweetened beverages is associated with a significantly lower risk of colon cancer recurrence and death. Participants who drank one or more 12-ounce servings of artificially sweetened beverages per day experienced a 46% improvement in risk, compared to those who didn't.
Generic direct acting antivirals in treatment of chronic hepatitis C patients
A retrospective study of 179 patients with chronic hepatitis C found that original and generic direct acting antivirals achieved sustained virologic response in over 90% of patients. The original medicines group showed slight superiority, but the generic medicines group still demonstrated high efficacy.
Fewer injuries in girls' sports when high schools have athletic trainers
Recurrent injury rates were six times higher in girls' soccer and nearly three times higher in girls' basketball without athletic trainers. Schools with athletic trainers better identified athletes with concussion and applied evidence-based injury prevention strategies.
Discovery of kidney cancer driver could lead to new treatment strategy
Researchers discovered a new protein, ZHX2, that over-accumulates in cells lacking VHL gene function, promoting cancerous growth and potentially serving as a novel therapeutic target for clear cell renal cell carcinoma. The study's findings suggest a potential new approach to treating the most common type of kidney cancer.