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Science News for December 17, 2018


The full story on climate change requires the long view

A new study by Colorado State University researchers provides a long view of what nine different world regions have contributed to climate change since 1900. The analysis shows that China's contribution will increase as it implements clean air standards, while North America remains the largest contributor.

SourceColorado State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2018

Microtube with built-in pump

Scientists at Tsinghua University and Beihang University developed a 'microtube pump' that can transport tiny amounts of fluid using sunlight-powered capillary forces. The pump consists of two layers with asymmetric properties that work together to accelerate water droplets to exceptional speeds.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 17, 2018

Two dimensions are better than three

Susan Fullerton is developing all 2D materials for next-generation electronics, with potential applications in information storage, brain-inspired computing, and security. Her research uses a novel approach to ion utilization, which could represent a paradigm shift in high-performance computing.

Green leafy vegetables may prevent liver steatosis

A diet rich in green leafy vegetables, especially those high in inorganic nitrate like spinach and rocket, may prevent liver steatosis. Researchers found that increased nitrate intake reduced fat accumulation in the liver and improved insulin/glucose homeostasis in mice with type 2 diabetes.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2018

Data storage using individual molecules

Physicists from the University of Basel created a network with pores about one nanometer in size and controlled the physical state of individual Xenon gas atoms between solid and liquid by temperature and electrical pulses. The study paves the way for the development of new, smaller data storage devices.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalSmall·DateDec 17, 2018

Growing a brain

Researchers discovered a two-step control mechanism in neural stem cells that differentiates into neurons and astrocytes. PRC1 represses genes related to neuronal function temporarily and permanently at two distinct stages of brain development.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateDec 17, 2018

School-based nutritional programs reduce student obesity

A new study led by Yale University finds that school-based nutritional programs limit increases in body mass index (BMI) among middle school students. Students in schools with enhanced nutrition policies and programs reported healthier behaviors and had lower BMI trajectories compared to those without such support.

SourceYale University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateDec 17, 2018

Understanding food's carbon footprint

A study found that people underestimate the environmental impact of food, especially meat, but can be helped by labels. The researchers asked participants to rate the energy used and greenhouse gas emissions generated by different foods and appliances.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateDec 17, 2018

Warning over deep-sea 'gold rush'

Scientists recommend measures to prevent environmental damage from seabed mining, including improved monitoring and protection of Marine Protected Areas. They suggest moving towards a circular economy that reduces demand for virgin minerals.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateDec 17, 2018

Magnesium isotopes reflect early lunar history

Researchers analyzed magnesium stable isotopes in lunar rock samples, finding they match the Inner Solar System's bulk composition before fractionation occurred. The results suggest the initial Moon impact did not separate isotopes and instead indicate a lunar magma ocean that re-melted and affected later basalt formations.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2018

School nutrition policy implementation slows weight gain in middle school students

A new study found that implementing strong school nutrition policies is associated with healthier weight trajectories in middle school students. The study, which followed 595 students over three years, found that students from schools with nutrition policy interventions experienced less than a 1% increase in body mass index (BMI), whil...

SourceUConn Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateDec 17, 2018

Daily medication more cost-effective than monthly injections for opioid use disorder

A daily dose of buprenorphine-naloxone is cost-effective compared to monthly injections of extended-release naltrexone, with similar effectiveness in quality of life and time abstaining from opioids. The researchers conclude that buprenorphine-naloxone should be preferred as the first-line treatment for opioid use disorder.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 17, 2018

Real-time feedback tames Parkinson's brainwaves

Researchers developed a method to translate brain activity into visual representations, enabling patients to increase or decrease beta waves associated with symptoms. Although no improvement in symptoms was observed, the study demonstrates a new approach toward managing disease-related brain activity that could inform new treatments.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·JournaleNeuro·DateDec 17, 2018

Defining quality virus data(sets)

A recent report from a joint effort between researchers and experts has provided guidelines for defining the quality of uncultivated virus genomes. The new standards aim to improve the analysis and characterization of these viruses, which are increasingly being identified through genome sequencing and analyses.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateDec 17, 2018

Implicit perception of gaze

A study involving over 800 participants found that unconscious assumptions about extramission theory led to different force estimates when a person gazed at an object. The results suggest the brain constructs a social model with an invisible energy beam from others' eyes, influencing perception.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2018

Physicists studied the influence of magnetic field on thin film structures

Researchers discovered that an inhomogeneous magnetic field affects the magnetization reversal mechanism of exchange-coupled structures, increasing sensitivity of magnetic field detectors. The study reveals a step-wise hysteresis loop and changes in the shape of the loop with varying magnetic field gradients.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalJournal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials·DateDec 17, 2018

Communication between neural networks

The study combines synfire communication, coherence and resonance to provide insight into how messages are exchanged between brain areas. The researchers found that oscillations play a significant role in determining whether communication can take place.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Reviews Neuroscience·DateDec 17, 2018

Front and center: Food labels have effects on consumption and product formulation

A systematic review of interventional studies found that food labels can lead to changes in consumer behavior, including reduced calorie and fat intake, but not significant impacts on other nutrients. Industry responses also showed reductions in trans fat and sodium, but no effects on added sugar or other healthy components.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateDec 17, 2018

Changes in agriculture could cut sector non-CO2 greenhouse gas emissions by up to 50 percent

Researchers found that changing agricultural practices and shifting diets away from meat and dairy products could reduce sector emissions by up to 50% by 2050. Dietary changes in overconsuming countries could contribute additional reductions of 23%, with the beef and dairy industries having high greenhouse gas intensities.

Discovery of novel mechanisms that cause migraines

A new mechanism has been discovered for the onset of migraines, involving a mutation in a protein that inhibits neuronal electrical activity. This finding opens a new path for the development of anti-migraine medicines by targeting K2P2.1 channels to reduce neuronal excitability.

SourceCNRS·JournalNeuron·DateDec 17, 2018

Using light to stop itch

Scientists at EMBL Rome have discovered a way to treat itchy skin conditions like eczema by using near-infrared light to bind to specialized nerve cells. This method has shown promising results in mice with eczema and amyloidosis, offering new hope for potential human treatments.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateDec 17, 2018

Switch-in-a-cell electrifies life

Rice University scientists develop synthetic protein switches to control electron flow, enabled by chemical triggers. The discovery enables custom-designed switches for applications such as living sensors and electronically controlled metabolic pathways.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateDec 17, 2018

New approach will help geneticists identify genes responsible for complex traits

Researchers developed SPAEML, a statistical approach that can accurately detect the underpinnings of simulated complex traits. The method was tested on datasets similar to Alzheimer's disease and flower structure in corn, identifying simulated markers and distinguishing between additive and interacting loci.

Biodegradable, edible film kills pathogens on seafood

Researchers developed a biodegradable edible film made with plant starch and antimicrobial compounds to control the growth of foodborne pathogens on seafood. The film successfully killed vibrio and salmonella bacteria, which are linked to gastrointestinal problems when consumed.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Food Microbiology·DateDec 17, 2018

Drivers who can 'bid' for parking spaces may improve parking options around the world

A new Tel Aviv University study suggests that a parking algorithm can guarantee uniform parking occupancy by filling spots in less lucrative areas. The algorithm has been tested in the Israeli city of Bat Yam, establishing real-time adaptive parking prices that ensured 90 percent parking occupancy without expensive equipment.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems·DateDec 17, 2018

Space telescope detects water in a number of asteroids

The Japanese infrared satellite AKARI has detected hydrated minerals containing water in a number of asteroids, providing insight into the distribution of water in our solar system. The study reveals that C-type asteroids were formed by the agglomeration of rocks and water ice, followed by aqueous alteration and dehydration.

SourceKobe University·JournalPublications of the Astronomical Society of Japan·DateDec 17, 2018

Inflate cells to observe their inner life

Researchers at the University of Geneva have developed a new technique called Ultrastructure Expansion Microscopy (U-ExM), which allows for the visualization of cellular structures and protein complexes at a nanoscale. This method enables the detection of biochemical modifications and mapping of large intracellular molecular complexes.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Methods·DateDec 17, 2018

Economic climate feedbacks

Researchers found that climate-driven economic losses can offset natural warming feedbacks, but this comes with increased inequality and reduced resources for mitigating climate change. The study suggests that climate-related economic activity slowdowns can temporarily reduce atmospheric CO2 levels.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2018

Nature's sweets

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a new method for glycosylation, using a precisely designed hydrogen-bond-donor catalyst to attach sugars to molecules. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of crucial biomedical benefits such as new vaccines and drugs to treat human disorders and diseases.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2018

Möbius kaleidocycles: Sensational structures with potential applications

Möbius kaleidocycles are ring linkages that can be turned inside-out continuously, inspiring wonder in engineers and mathematicians. The objects have unique properties, such as a one-sided surface, and could be used for designing new mixing machines, energy transmitting devices, or robotic arms.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2018

URI researcher: Oyster aquaculture limits disease in wild oyster populations

A URI researcher found that oyster aquaculture can limit the spread of disease among wild oysters. Aquaculture operations can reduce disease by filtering parasites from the water and holding oysters long enough to prevent their development. Intensive oyster aquaculture, when done correctly, can be beneficial for wild populations.

SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalAquaculture Environment Interactions·DateDec 17, 2018

One-third of Americans consider living abroad

A new study reveals that approximately one-third of all US-born US citizens living in the US are considering leaving to live abroad. The main motivations cited are exploration, retirement, and dissatisfaction with their current situation. National identity and networks played a significant role in shaping these aspirations.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalInternational Migration Review·DateDec 17, 2018

The gene helping submerged plants

Researchers at Stockholm University found a special gene PLD that helps plants stay healthy and resistant to oxygen deficiency when underwater. The study suggests that increasing the amount of this gene may help protect crops from flooding, improving harvest yields.

SourceStockholm University·JournalPhysiologia Plantarum·DateDec 17, 2018

Satellite data exposes looting

Researchers used high-resolution satellite imagery to assess the destruction of archaeological heritage in a remote region. Over 74% of analyzed burials were found to be destroyed and plundered, highlighting the urgent need for site protection.

SourceUniversity of Bern·JournalHeritage·DateDec 17, 2018

Patients with heart failure have lower risk of death, hospital admission if seen by physician in first 7 days after emergency department discharge

Patients with heart failure who receive early follow-up by a physician within 7 days of emergency department discharge have lower risk of death and hospital admissions. The study found that 47% of patients were seen by a physician within a week, with the lowest death rate in those who received care within 7 days.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateDec 17, 2018

A fire-breathing dragon helps fight ember attacks on thatched-roof buildings

Researchers used the NIST Dragon to simulate ember attacks on thatched-roof buildings, revealing ignition occurred within 90 seconds and flames penetrated completely through the roofing assembly. The study's findings will help Japanese fire services develop effective counter measures and mitigate damage from large outdoor fires.

Medical emergency department visits can indicate increased suicide risk among teens and young adults

A new study identifies medical conditions that increase the risk of self-directed violence among teens and young adults visiting emergency departments. These conditions include epilepsy, seizures, multiple pain visits, syncope, vomiting, and dental complaints, highlighting the importance of EDs in suicide prevention.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateDec 17, 2018