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Science News for February 1, 2018


The disappearance of common species

A study published in Biological Conservation found that widespread insects are threatened with a decline in species diversity, genetic diversity, and ability to adapt to environmental changes. The research highlights the importance of maintaining genetic diversity through population exchange for common species.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalBiological Conservation·DateFeb 1, 2018

Zeroing in on dopamine

Researchers at Harvard Medical School have identified the molecular machinery responsible for precise dopamine release in the brain, challenging current models of dopamine signaling. The study found specialized active release sites that enable fast and spatially precise secretion of dopamine.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateFeb 1, 2018

Typical woman or typical man?

The Berlin Institute of Health (BIH) recognizes Professors Louise Pilote and Rhonda Voskuhl for their pioneering work on sex and gender differences in cardiovascular diseases and multiple sclerosis. Their research focuses on incorporating gender aspects into medical practice.

The benefits of social media for young people in care

Young people in care benefit from social media by maintaining healthy birth family relationships and friendships, making new connections, and easing transitions. Social media provides emotional support, increased self-esteem, and mental well-being, helping reduce stigma and shame associated with being in care.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalThe British Journal of Social Work·DateFeb 1, 2018

Self-assembled 'hairy' nanoparticles could give a double punch to cancer

Researchers have developed 'hairy' nanoparticles that can assemble and disassemble on demand, allowing for simultaneous delivery of therapeutic drugs and heating to cancer cells. This technology combines light-sensitive materials with water-repelling yet light-absorbing materials to create photo-responsive gold nanoparticles.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2018

Instagram users less likely to engage with political or controversial images, MU finds

A new study from the University of Missouri found that Instagram users are drawn to social news and entertainment content, but less likely to engage with political or controversial images. Researchers identified strategies for increasing engagement with audiences, including presenting news images in aesthetically pleasing ways.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalVisual Communication Quarterly·DateFeb 1, 2018

New mouse model makes stem cells light up green

Researchers have developed a method to selectively mark multipotent stromal cells in mice using the CD73 gene, allowing for the analysis of their distribution pattern and function in living organisms. This breakthrough enables the study of these stem cells in their original state, providing insights into their role in regenerative medi...

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateFeb 1, 2018

Magnesium makes chromosomes

Researchers develop MARIO, a fluorescent probe that measures magnesium ion concentration, showing its critical role in chromosome condensation. The study provides a new mechanism for chromosome organization and may help understand diseases like cancer.

SourceOsaka University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 1, 2018

Anxious personality may be linked to heightened dog bite risk

A recent study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health found that people with anxious personalities are more likely to be bitten by dogs. The survey revealed nearly three times the actual number of dog bites as hospital records indicate, suggesting a higher risk for anxious individuals.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateFeb 1, 2018

The Lancet Infectious Diseases: Rapid spread of multidrug-resistant malaria in southeast Asia demands urgent action

A genetic study reveals that multidrug-resistant malaria in southeast Asia originated from a single mutation combination in 2008, which spread rapidly across the region before becoming apparent in 2013. The study highlights the need for close monitoring of genetic mutations to mitigate resistance and prevent further outbreaks.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 1, 2018

Measuring molecular interactions

Researchers have developed a new method to quantify protein-metabolite interactions, discovering hundreds of new interactions and binding sites. The approach has the potential to identify new regulatory mechanisms, enzymes, and metabolic reactions in cells.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalCell·DateFeb 1, 2018

Research uncovers gene network that regulates motor neuron formation during embryonic development

Researchers at UCLA have uncovered a gene network that promotes the formation of spinal motor neurons in chicken and mouse embryos. The study sheds light on how embryonic development is orchestrated for motor neuron formation, with implications for stem cell-based therapies to repair or study neurodegenerative diseases.

Silk fibers could be high-tech 'natural metamaterials'

Researchers discovered that silk fibers exhibit Anderson localization of light, a phenomenon that enables efficient control of light due to their nano-architecture. This discovery could lead to innovations in medical therapies and biosensing, as well as the creation of synthetic materials with similar properties.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 1, 2018

Do career NFL players have a higher risk of death?

A study of 3,812 retired NFL players found a slightly higher risk of death compared to replacement players, mainly due to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Repeated head trauma in football may lead to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 1, 2018

CNIO researchers discover a potential new therapeutic strategy for pancreatic cancer

CNIO researchers have identified a subpopulation of cancer-associated fibroblasts that foster tumour growth and discovered the Saa3 gene as a key player. Eliminating this gene reprograms the cells, losing their pro-tumour properties, opening a new avenue for therapeutic strategies.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2018

The American Stroke Association receives $11.1 million gift from the Henrietta B. and Frederick H. Bugher Foundation to fund targeted research network in hemorrhagic stroke

The American Heart Association/American Stroke Association has received a $11.1 million gift from the Henrietta B. and Frederick H. Bugher Foundation to fund targeted research in hemorrhagic stroke. The centers will employ precision medicine, data analysis, and core collaborative research to prevent and treat this type of stroke.

Photoreversible molecular switch changes the physical property of thermoresponsive polymer

Scientists at Yokohama National University developed a photoresponsive molecular switch that enables the control of sol-gel transitions in thermoresponsive polymers. The azobenzene-containing ionic liquid triggers reversible physical property changes upon light irradiation, showing tunable sol and gel states.

SourceYokohama National University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 1, 2018

Splashdown: Supersonic cold metal bonding in 3-D

Researchers have developed a 3D temperature-based model to understand the CGDS film-growing process. The model connects particle impact velocity, energy transformation, and temperature rise in three dimensions, predicting how the average temperature of the particle impact zone will rise and subside.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalJournal of Thermal Spray Technology·DateFeb 1, 2018

Electro-mechano-optical NMR detection

Researchers at Kyoto University and University of Tokyo have developed a new method for light detection in nuclear magnetic resonance, promising higher sensitivity for MRI. The 'up-convertion' technology converts radio-frequency signals into optical ones using an elastic membrane and optics.

SourceKyoto University·JournalOptica·DateFeb 1, 2018

Two-stage gas sensor reports on soil dynamics

Researchers at Rice University have created a new type of gas sensor that can monitor microbes' health and activity in soil without disturbing them. The sensor uses genetically engineered microbes to report on their environment and activity, providing valuable data for bioengineers, geobiologists, and other researchers.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateFeb 1, 2018

A higher(er)-definition nose

Researchers have discovered a two-dimensional metallic material called MXene that can detect gases at very low concentrations, improving the sensitivity of chemical sensors. This could lead to early diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as ulcers, diabetes, cancer, cirrhosis, multiple sclerosis, and kidney disease.

SourceDrexel University·JournalACS Nano·DateFeb 1, 2018

More rice, please: 13 rice genomes reveal ways to keep up with ever-growing population

Researchers have sequenced the genomes of 13 wild and domesticated rice species, revealing valuable genetic information for developing new, efficient, and sustainable rice varieties. The newly created genetic resource provides insights into disease resistance genes, which could help reduce pesticide use and ensure reliable rice harvests.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 1, 2018

Food preservative enhances schizophrenia treatment

A randomized, double-blind trial showed that adding sodium benzoate to clozapine improved negative symptoms and overall symptoms in patients with refractory schizophrenia. The treatment had no side effects and may provide hope for treating the most difficult-to-treat patients.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateFeb 1, 2018

Quantum 'hack' to unleash computing power

Researchers at the University of Sydney have discovered a 'quantum hack' that improves quantum error correction by up to 400 percent, allowing for more efficient computations. This breakthrough could lead to fewer physical qubits required for basic calculations, making practical quantum computers a reality.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 1, 2018

Study reveals how the most common DNA mutation happens

Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered how the most common DNA mutation happens, a phenomenon that allows guanine and thymine bases to change shape and avoid detection by enzymes. This finding provides a foundation for understanding other types of DNA mutations, which are responsible for diseases and normal aging.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature·DateFeb 1, 2018

Ninety-six scientists co-author paper on rainforest mammals

The study provides a comprehensive dataset of mammalian traits in the Atlantic Forest, expanding possibilities for zoological and ecological research. The data aims to draw attention to the region's importance and encourage conservation efforts, highlighting the crucial role small mammals play in the ecosystem.

SourceField Museum·JournalEcology·DateFeb 1, 2018