Researchers identify new type of depression
A study by Hiroshima University found a link between the protein RGS8 and depression behaviors in mice. RGS8 may be a promising candidate for developing new antidepressant drugs.
Science News Archive 2018 - Page 263
Browse by Month - 2018
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Adapting lifestyle habits can quickly lower blood pressure
A new program has been shown to lower blood pressure in just 14 days, with participants seeing an average drop of 19 points. The Weimer Institute Newstart Lifestyle program aims to modify lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise to achieve this result.
Further drivers of ocean deoxygenation identified
Previous ocean model calculations underestimated recent oxygen decline, with global warming as the main cause. The study identifies additional drivers, including changes in ocean circulation and biogeochemical processes, which were insufficiently represented in models.
Researchers identify new gene changes that point to elevated prostate cancer risk
Researchers have discovered 63 new genetic variations associated with higher risk of prostate cancer, enabling early and regular screening for men at increased risk. The findings represent the largest increase in genetic markers since their first identification in 2006.
Research shows if your eyes wrinkle when you smile or frown, you appear more sincere
Researchers found that the Duchenne marker, a wrinkle feature around the eyes, is perceived as more intense and sincere across various facial expressions. The study suggests a potential universal language for reading emotions.
Mozart, meditation and a yoga mat: Oncologists welcome integrative therapies for breast cancer
The American Society of Clinical Oncology has endorsed guidelines from the Society for Integrative Oncology, recommending integrative therapies for anxiety, depression, and quality of life improvement. However, some treatments like ginseng and acupressure require further research due to safety concerns.
Squashing cyberbullying: New approach is fast, accurate
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have developed a new approach to detecting cyberbullying on social media networks like Instagram. The technique combines multiple computing tools to scan large amounts of data and send alerts to parents or administrators in real-time, with an accuracy rate of 70%.
Citizen science -- A powerful tool to combat invasive giant slugs
Researchers used citizen science to analyze slug appearances and complex weather patterns, revealing correlations between humidity, precipitation, and windspeed. This prediction method could inform targeted eradication policies against invasive species like the giant slug.
Study points to possible treatment target for aggressive liver cancer in kids
A study published in Communications Biology has linked the protein PARP1 to an aggressive form of pediatric liver cancer called hepatoblastoma. Researchers found that inhibiting PARP1 slowed or stopped cancer progression in laboratory tests, providing a potential treatment target for this disease.
What makes aggressive mice so violent
A study found that aggressive mice showed increased dominance and aggression when ΔFosB was overexpressed, suggesting a link between this protein and violent behavior. The research suggests targeting ΔFosB may reduce aggression by modifying the brain's reward system.
Army scientists have a blast with aluminum nanoparticles
Researchers from the U.S. Army Research Laboratory and Texas Tech University demonstrated a 30-percent enhancement in TNT detonation velocity by adding novel aluminum nanoparticles. The AIH-coated nanoparticles showed improved reactivity due to their unique morphological feature, leading to enhanced explosive performance.
Orange peels may hold secret to airborne medicine, safer bridges
Engineers at UCF have discovered a way to release fragrant oil from oranges, mimicking nature's mechanism to create microjets. This discovery may lead to less expensive and biodegradable methods for delivering medication, as well as innovative solutions for detecting bridge failures.
SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 11, 2018
Designing a better superconductor with geometric frustration
A new system discovered by Jankó and collaborators enables ongoing adjustments to the material's properties over time. This allows for multiple reversible spin cycle configurations for the vortices, which can be rearranged site by site.
Interstellar dust and Solar System formation
Comet-derived IDPs contain presolar interstellar dust, such as GEMS, with organic carbon mantles that decompose at high temperatures. The results suggest that GEMS formed in a cold environment and represent surviving building blocks of the Solar System.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 11, 2018
Erectile dysfunction means increased risk for heart disease, regardless of other risk factors
A recent study found that men with erectile dysfunction are twice as likely to experience heart attacks, cardiac arrests, and strokes. The research suggests that ED is an important indicator of cardiovascular risk among middle-aged men.
Algorithm predicts dangerous low blood pressure during surgery
A new algorithm developed by researchers at UCLA Medical Center can predict hypotension in surgical patients with high accuracy, enabling physicians to take proactive measures. The algorithm uses machine learning to analyze physiological data and identifies subtle signs of impending hypotension, reducing the risk of serious complications.
Post-stroke delivery of neurotrophic factor MANF promotes functional recovery in rats
Mesencephalic astrocyte-derived neurotrophic factor MANF administered to rats after ischemic brain injury promoted reversal of behavioral impairments. MANF treatment transiently increased phagocytic macrophages, suggesting a potential beneficial effect on inflammation and tissue repair.
Regenerative wound dressing for diabetic ulcers
Researchers developed a peptide-infused dressing that promotes dermal cell adhesion and proliferation, accelerating wound closure and tissue regeneration in diabetic mice. The dressing showed significant benefits compared to control treatments.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 11, 2018
How to slow down Ebola
Researchers created a genetic family tree of the Ebola epidemic, revealing its spread between 2013-2016. Closing international borders proved effective in slowing down the virus, while local measures had little impact.
Heritage science: Where the past looks to the future
A special issue of Angewandte Chemie explores the intersection of chemistry, conservation, and archaeology in preserving cultural heritage. Research articles examine methods for analyzing antiques, classifying plastic artifact degradation, and conserving cannonballs from shipwrecks.
Fueling a deep-sea ecosystem
Microbes at deep-sea hot springs are surprisingly productive, generating more than 4,000 tons of organic carbon daily, equivalent to the amount in 200 blue whales. They convert chemicals into energy through chemosynthesis, serving as a crucial base for the food web.
SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 11, 2018
Safety protocol breaches: ways to prevent infection transmission in health care setting
Researchers observed 283 protocol violations during 325 observations, including improper donning of personal protective equipment and errors in device handling. The study suggests re-evaluating transmission protocols and redesigning equipment to reduce self-contamination and infection transmission.
Evidence for a new property of quantum matter revealed
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have detected electrical dipole fluctuations in a quantum material at extremely low temperatures, revealing a new property of quantum matter. The study uses Raman spectroscopy to observe the irregular oscillations of tiny charged poles on the material.
Climate change and food production shocks
Climate change could lead to increased global maize yield variability, particularly in the US, Europe, and Africa. Aggressive carbon dioxide emissions mitigation and heat-tolerant crop breeding are crucial to mitigate these effects.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 11, 2018
PARP inhibitor improves overall response rates in small cell lung cancer patients
A Phase II trial found that adding PARP inhibitor veliparib to standard chemotherapy improved overall response rates and progression-free survival in patients with small cell lung cancer. Researchers identified SLFN11 as a biomarker for patient selection, which may lead to new treatment options.
SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJun 11, 2018
MOF material offers selective, reversible and repeatable capture of toxic atmospheric gas
A metal-organic framework (MOF) material has been developed that exhibits selective, reversible, and repeatable capture of nitrogen dioxide gas from the atmosphere. The material, MFM-300(Al), demonstrated robustness and capability to be fully regenerated multiple times without loss of crystallinity or porosity.
NASA finds Tropical Storm Maliksi weakening, expanding
Tropical Storm Maliksi is weakening due to strong vertical wind shear, causing its cloud field to expand. The storm will transition from tropical to extratropical by the end of June 11, moving northeastward at 38 mph.
New epigenetic drug against Mantle Cell Lymphoma
Researchers have developed a new epigenetic drug that slows down cell growth in Mantle Cell Lymphoma by inhibiting the HDAC6 gene. The substance shows high efficacy in cultured cells, murine studies and patient-derived cells with minimal toxicity to healthy cells.
Regenerative bandage accelerates healing in diabetic wounds
A Northwestern University team developed a regenerative bandage that heals diabetic wounds 33% faster than current market products, leveraging the body's natural wound-healing process. The bandage uses an antioxidant hydrogel with a thermally responsive segment of laminin to facilitate tissue regeneration and counter inflammation.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 11, 2018
Scientists watch bacteria 'harpoon' DNA to speed their evolution
Researchers at Indiana University have made the first direct observation of bacteria using a 'DNA harpoon' process to rapidly evolve new traits, including antibiotic resistance. The study revealed that pili act like microscopic harpooners to cast their line through pores in the cell's wall and reel in DNA fragments.
Audio-motor learning during musical training
A study discovered rapid recruitment of auditory-to-motor cortical pathways when participants played or passively listened to learned melodies. Brain connectivity between motor and auditory areas was also associated with training success, suggesting potential implications for rehabilitation strategies based on audio-motor learning.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 11, 2018
Satellite shows this Bud's a major hurricane for you, Eastern Pacific Ocean
Hurricane Bud has formed in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, bringing heavy rain and strong winds to southwestern Mexico. The storm is predicted to produce life-threatening flash floods and mudslides, as well as life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.
Artificial gene defect reveals target to fight genetic disease
A recent study published in Nature Communications reveals that the enzyme USP48 plays a crucial role in DNA repair and may hold promise as a therapeutic target for Fanconi Anemia. Inactivation of USP48 in FA-deficient cells restores nearly error-free repair of damaged DNA.
SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 11, 2018
Soil profile changes in urban areas
A study analyzed soil horizons in 11 US cities, finding approximately 50% fewer soil horizons than pre-urban soils. The researchers attributed changes to local management processes such as soil removal, mixing, and fill additions, leading to potential effects on ecosystem functioning.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 11, 2018
World's largest library of biomedical images and animations gifted to Texas engineering
The Blausen Medical Library, valued at $25 million, has been made freely available to the University of Texas at Austin. The library features over 28,000 3D animations and illustrations detailing various biomedical topics, including human anatomy and physiology.
Improving electoral accountability
A study found that sending voters messages about district budget irregularities increased the likelihood of voting for incumbent councilors if corruption was low and reduced it when corruption was high. This method could empower voters and increase electoral accountability in some political offices.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 11, 2018
Stanford nectar research sheds light on ecological theory
A Stanford study using nectar-dwelling yeast found that relative nonlinearity is crucial for species coexistence, contradicting common assumptions among ecologists. The research used microcosms to gather data on the complex interactions between yeasts and environmental conditions.
Approaching an ideal amino acid synthesis using hydrogen
Osaka University researchers have developed a practical and environmentally innocuous method for functionalizing multiply substituted amines. Their reductive alkylation approach uses hydrogen directly, generating only water as a byproduct and efficiently synthesizing a wide variety of amines, including amino acids.
1.45 million children's lives saved by HiB and pneumococcal vaccines since 2000
Since 2000, conjugate vaccines against Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and Streptococcus pneumoniae have prevented a significant decline in child mortality from these bacterial infections, with estimated reductions of 90% and 51%, respectively. The introduction of these vaccines has been instrumental in reducing the global burden o...
SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateJun 11, 2018
Solar cells combining silicon with perovskite have achieved record efficiency of 25.2 percent
Research teams have developed an economically competitive solution to create solar cells that combine the benefits of silicon and perovskite materials. The new technology achieves a record efficiency of 25.2% while maintaining compatibility with existing industrial expertise.
Many at risk for HIV despite lifesaving pill
A new University of Michigan study reveals that high-risk individuals face multiple barriers to accessing pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a lifesaving HIV drug. The researchers outline 31 potential solutions to overcome these barriers, which affect patient, provider, and health-system levels.
Philosopher warns against 'drifting into state terrorism'
Philosopher Prof. Dr Michael Quante warns against 'drifting into state terrorism' due to modern weapon systems and ambiguity in the concept of peace. He advocates for honest discussion about war and peace, clearly naming interests pursued by warfare, and remembering the 'just war' doctrine.
Children with neuroblastoma have an elevated risk of long-term psychological difficulties
A new study found that children with neuroblastoma have an elevated risk of developing anxiety, depression, and attention deficits. The study also showed that survivors who experience psychological impairment are more likely to require special education services and not attend college.
A liberal accent: Linguistics team documents language changes in southwest Kansas
Researchers have found that demographics and Latino populations shifting in southwest Kansas are leading to linguistic changes in English. Young people, even those who don't speak Spanish, are adopting staccato syllables and vowel pronunciations characteristic of Spanish-speaking communities.
Making the oxygen we breathe, a photosynthesis mechanism exposed
Researchers at Georgia Tech have elucidated the role of a small metal catalyst and an amino acid in the release of oxygen from water in photosystem II, a complex protein structure found in plants and algae. The discovery sheds light on the intricate chemistry of photosynthesis and has potential applications in improving crop productivi...
SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 11, 2018
Turbocharge for lithium batteries
Scientists have developed a new anode material for lithium-ion batteries that can store more energy and charge faster. The hybrid material combines tin oxide nanoparticles with antimony on a graphene base, improving stability and conductivity.
Key cancer-fighting gene's secret weapons revealed
Researchers have discovered how p53 stops the development of lymphoma and potentially other cancers by targeting specific DNA repair genes. This new information could help doctors identify patients at risk and develop safer treatments.
New 28-GHz transceiver paves the way for future 5G devices
Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology designed a tiny, fast, reliable, and accurate 28-GHz transceiver for stable high-speed 5G communications. The new transceiver employs a local oscillator (LO) phase shifting approach, achieving an improvement in beam steering resolution of an order of magnitude compared to previous designs.
'Tricking' bacteria into hydroxylating benzene
Researchers have successfully used E.coli bacteria to oxidize C-H bonds in benzene to generate phenol by activating a genetically inserted cytochrome P450BM3 enzyme with a decoy molecule. This novel approach enables whole-cell biotransformation without harsh conditions or genetic modification.
Double-checking diabetes medications may reduce re-hospitalizations
A new study suggests that medication reconciliation programs can reduce risks of diabetes patients, resulting in fewer hospitalizations and emergency room visits. The program's effectiveness was associated with improved patient outcomes and decreased healthcare costs.
Large study finds workplace foods contribute to unhealthy eating
A new study of 5,222 US employees found that workplace foods tend to be high in sodium and refined grains, with very little whole grains and fruit. Employers can play a role in promoting healthier food options through worksite wellness programs.
Special issue to highlight climate science for service partnership between China and the UK
The Climate Science for Service Partnership China (CSSP China) has improved understanding of climate change effects and reduced climatic risks through research collaborations with the UK. The partnership has led to advancements in seasonal forecasting, crop security, and climate services.
SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJun 11, 2018
Are you really you when you're hungry?
A study published by the American Psychological Association suggests that hunger can lead to emotional states like anger, but only when certain context and self-awareness factors are present. Participants who were more aware of their hunger feelings were less likely to become hangry.
DIY brings high throughput to continuous cell culturing
eVOLVER, an open-source system developed by Rice University, enables high-throughput continuous cell culturing using automated growth experiments. The system can support 96-chamber experiments and allows for real-time data tracking and monitoring of culture conditions, making it suitable for applications in synthetic biology and antibi...
Fighting tobacco use among adults with mental illness
A University of Houston researcher is targeting adults with anxiety and depression who struggle to quit smoking by providing individualized, online feedback. The goal is to increase motivation, confidence, and intention to quit while reducing perceived barriers to quitting. The study aims to improve distress tolerance skills to help pa...
Experiments trace interstellar dust back to solar system's formation
Researchers have found evidence of pre-solar interstellar dust in glassy grains called GEMS, which were formed in a cold environment. The discovery provides insight into the solar system's formation and the processes that created the planets.
SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 11, 2018
Manipulated enzymes
Researchers at TU Graz have achieved a breakthrough in biocatalysis by manipulating an enzyme to create ring-shaped molecules. This innovation enables the production of novel pharmaceuticals and plant protection products with high enantiomeric purity, opening doors for sustainable 'green' chemistry.
The language of facial expressions
A study by University of Miami Professor Daniel Messinger and colleagues found that eye wrinkles around the eyes, known as the Duchenne marker, convey more intense and sincere emotions across multiple facial expressions. Participants rated Duchenne smiles and sad expressions as more sincere and intense than non-Duchenne expressions.
'Therepi' device attaches to heart
A new study from MIT and Harvard University introduces the 'Therepi' device, which attaches directly to damaged heart tissue to deliver multiple therapies. The device addresses issues with current drug delivery methods, providing a non-invasive solution for treating heart disease.
Tracing the impacts of food and nutrition policies
Researchers found that children in WIC households ate more fruits and vegetables, while a CDC study assessed local government incentives for healthy food options. Model estimates also show banning trans fats could reduce health disparities and save billions in healthcare costs.