Indicators of despair rising among Gen X-ers entering middle age
Research finds increased indicators of despair, including depression and suicidal ideation, among Gen X-ers in their late 30s and early 40s, regardless of demographic group.
Science News Archive 2019 - Page 345
Browse by Month - 2019
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Irregular schedules raise risk of injury for miners working long hours
Researchers from the University of Illinois at Chicago found that injured miners who worked shifts longer than 9 hours tended to have irregular schedules or less than two years on the job. Long work shifts were associated with a 32% increased risk of injury resulting in death and a 73% increased risk of multiple worker injuries.
SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateApr 15, 2019
Historic logging site shows first human-caused bedrock erosion along an entire river
Researchers have found that logging practices can cause significant bedrock incision, eroding geology at a rate of up to 100 times the natural rate. The study, conducted on the Teanaway River in Washington state, shows that human activity has transformed the riverbank, creating new terraces and altering the landscape.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 15, 2019
Hold the mustard: What makes spiders fussy eaters
Spiders, including wolf spiders, react to irritating chemicals like allyl isothiocyanate in a similar way to mammals and humans, who have transient receptor potential channels that activate sensations like pain and taste. This reaction causes them to avoid eating insects coated with these chemicals.
Adaptations of indigenous populations in North America
Researchers found cold-resistant phenotypes in Alaskan Iñupiat and immune response genes in central Mexican and southeastern US populations. Genetic adaptations varied depending on population history and geography.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 15, 2019
Venezuela estimated to have had 1 million new malaria infections in 2018
The study highlights the devastating impact of Venezuela's socioeconomic and political crisis on public health, with a significant increase in malaria cases. The country is now facing an 'epidemic of unprecedented proportions', with diseases turning into epidemics due to the collapse of healthcare systems.
New compound allows bacterial communication to be controlled by light
Scientists at the University of Groningen have created a light-controlled switch that can be used to inhibit or stimulate bacterial communication. The molecule was tested on Pseudomonas aeruginosa and showed a strong response to light, inducing quorum sensing signals.
90% of teens killed by an intimate partner are girls
A new study in JAMA Pediatrics found that intimate partner homicide among teens is a serious public health issue, with 90% of victims being girls. The study analyzed data from the National Violent Death Reporting System and found that guns were the most common weapon used in these homicides.
SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateApr 15, 2019
Rice advances the art of protein blacksmithing
Researchers develop a new method to create detailed structural models of proteins using force-driven simulations, reducing computational power requirements. The technique, inspired by metallurgy, allows for faster computation and more accurate results than existing approaches.
Suicide-bombing aphids defend colonies against predators
Aphid soldiers expel lipid-rich fluids to create a soft clot around the gall wound, which is swiftly hardened and melanin-darkened through phenoloxidase. This collective action amplifies an immune response for social defense, providing molecular clues to altruistic social defense mechanisms.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 15, 2019
Megalith tombs were family graves in European Stone Age
Researchers discovered close kin relationships among Stone Age individuals buried in megalithic tombs, suggesting a patrilineal society. The study found paternal continuity and an overrepresentation of males in some tombs.
Dr. Kelly Dorgan receives prestigious CAREER Grant from National Science Foundation
Dr. Kelly Dorgan received a CAREER grant to study ecosystem engineering and bioturbation rates in marine sediments. She aims to improve nutrient regeneration and predict bioturbation patterns, benefiting ocean health.
Dementia more preventable in Asia and Latin America
A new study found that nearly half of dementia cases in low- to middle-income countries, such as China and India, could be prevented by addressing modifiable risk factors like education, hearing loss, and obesity. Improving childhood education and health outcomes throughout life may lead to significant reductions in dementia rates.
'Fingerprint database' could help scientists to identify new cancer culprits
Scientists have developed a catalogue of DNA mutation 'fingerprints' caused by 41 environmental agents linked to cancer. The 'mutational signatures' can help doctors pinpoint the culprit responsible for a patient's tumour.
The discrete-time physics hiding inside our continuous-time world
Researchers at the Santa Fe Institute and MIT find that continuous-time systems must have hidden states and finite hidden timesteps to exhibit two-time dynamics. This discovery has implications for understanding biomolecular processes, ecosystem evolution, and financial market behavior.
Gene-based factor VIIa prevents bleeding episodes in animals with hemophilia
Researchers found threshold levels of circulating factor VIIa that prevented bleeding episodes in animal models, potentially leading to a new preventive treatment for patients with hemophilia who develop antibodies to standard maintenance therapy.
FDA added sugar label could be a cost-effective way to improve health, generate savings
A new study estimates that the FDA's added sugar labeling policy could prevent nearly 1 million cases of cardiometabolic disease, including heart disease and type 2 diabetes, over a 20-year period. The label is expected to save $31 billion in net healthcare costs and $61.9 billion in societal costs.
Low-calorie sweetener derived from lactose gets manufacturing boost from yeast
A new strain of yeast can produce tagatose in much larger quantities than traditional enzymatic manufacturing techniques, making it a cost-effective alternative to sugar or high-fructose corn syrup. The glycemic index of tagatose is lower than that of sucrose and fructose, carrying a lower risk for developing Type 2 diabetes.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 15, 2019
Precise decoding of breast cancer cells creates new option for treatment
Researchers used mass cytometry to analyze millions of cancer and immune cells from 140 patients, discovering unique cellular compositions in each tumor. The study found that aggressive tumors are dominated by a single type of cell, while immune therapy may work for previously unsuitable breast cancer patients.
Need for social skills helped shape modern human face
A new review suggests that social communication played a significant role in shaping the modern human face. The study, led by University of York researchers, concludes that our faces evolved not only due to factors like diet and climate but also to facilitate nonverbal communication and establish large social networks.
Examination of adolescent homicides committed by intimate partners
Nearly 2,200 adolescent homicides were analyzed; 150 were committed by an intimate partner, with nearly all female victims killed by firearm. The study highlights the need for understanding early adolescent dating relationships to inform prevention and intervention efforts.
Dopamine regulates sex differences in worms
Research on Caenorhabditis elegans reveals dopamine's role in sex-specific behaviors, such as food finding and mating strategies. The study demonstrates how dopamine acts through different molecular pathways to give rise to these differences.
Household pollution and air quality in India
Reducing household fine particulate matter (PM2.5) emissions in India could decrease mean annual ambient PM2.5 exposure by over 17%, averting premature mortality and meeting the national air quality standard for 103 additional districts. Complete mitigation of emissions from cooking alone would be necessary to achieve this goal.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 15, 2019
For busy medical students, two-hour meditation study may be as beneficial as longer course
A Rutgers-led study found that a two-hour introductory mindfulness class can be just as effective as an eight-week immersive course in reducing stress and depression among medical students. The research suggests that even brief meditation practices can lead to improved mental well-being, making it accessible for time-crunched individuals.
Graphene gives a tremendous boost to future terahertz cameras
Researchers at ICFO have developed a graphene-enabled photodetector that operates at room temperature, is highly sensitive, and very fast. This breakthrough enhances the performance of existing terahertz detectors, paving the way for the creation of fully digital low-cost camera systems.
Mississippi State University row crop short course presentations available online
The 2018 Mississippi State University Row Crop Short Course presented topics such as nematode management, weed control, off-target movement of herbicides, and the economic outlook for row crops. Presentations are now available online through the "Focus on Cotton" series.
Cometary surprise found inside meteorite
A team of researchers discovered a primitive class of meteorite containing a slice of carbon-rich material similar to extraterrestrial dust particles thought to have originated in comets near the outer edges of the Solar System. This finding provides insights into the Solar System's architecture and formation.
Climate models and long-term temperature variability
Global climate models can adequately simulate temperature variability at timescales of years to multiple millennia. The study suggests that with correct initial and boundary conditions, particularly in the deep ocean, forecasting temperature variations becomes more feasible.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 15, 2019
Variations in country-specific sex ratios at birth
A study analyzing vital registration, census, and survey data from 202 countries estimates sex ratio at birth for all countries between 1950 and 2017. The study reveals significant regional variations and findings a total of 23.1 million missing female births worldwide.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 15, 2019
Power to the people: How everyday acts of defiance can shape and change markets
Researchers found three techniques: ambidextrous practices, secure networks, and stealthy defiance, which helped individuals resist strict rules and structures, leading to rule relaxation and market changes. These actions were crucial for consumers and individuals with limited resources to participate in shaping the market.
Statins safe for preventing cardiovascular events in rheumatoid arthritis patients
A large clinical trial found that statins reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in moderate-risk rheumatoid arthritis patients by 40%, but the difference was not statistically significant. Statins also lower LDL cholesterol and C-reactive protein levels, making them a safe treatment option for these patients.
Regular cannabis users require up to 220% higher dosage for sedation in medical procedures
A study found that regular cannabis users require significantly higher doses of sedatives like fentanyl and propofol for routine procedures. This may lead to increased risk of adverse side effects due to dose-dependent side effects.
SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateApr 15, 2019
Princeton scientists discover an interaction that helps cancers spread to bone
Researchers found E-selectin in bone vascular environment supports early growth of cancer cells, promoting metastasis. Using sugar-mimetic compound Uproleselan, they show reduced bone metastasis and survival advantage in mice with human breast cancer cells.
Sniffing pleasant odors may decrease cigarette craving
A novel approach using pleasant odors could help smokers quit by reducing craving urges. Pleasant aromas significantly decreased urge scores in participants, with those smelling pleasant odors showing a greater reduction than tobacco or blank scents.
Best in snow: New scientific device creates electricity from snowfall
Researchers at UCLA designed a device that harnesses the charge from falling snow to create electricity. The snow-based triboelectric nanogenerator can work in remote areas without batteries, providing a continuous power supply for applications such as monitoring winter sports or tracking athletes.
Tiny fragment of a comet found inside a meteorite
A tiny piece of a comet has been discovered inside a primitive meteorite, providing insights into the solar system's structure and evolution. The finding is significant as it reveals details about how our solar system took shape during its early stages.
In lung disease, crackling and wheezing can be more than just a sign of sickness
A University of Michigan researcher has found that the mechanics producing wheezing and crackling noises with every breath are likely a cause of injury and inflammation. This new understanding could change how lung diseases are treated and represent a paradigm shift in doctor-patient interactions.
Peeling back the darkness of M87
A team of researchers unveiled an image of the shadow cast by a black hole at the center of galaxy Messier 87, using the Event Horizon Telescope and supercomputers like Stampede1 and Stampede2. The image confirms that supermassive black holes exist and match the appearance expected from simulations.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 15, 2019
Resolving sex differences in psychiatric disorder risk
A new study found that female rats exposed to maternal immune activation during pregnancy exhibit autism- and schizophrenia-like behaviors, similar to their male siblings. The researchers argue that this limitation may contribute to conflicting results in the field of psychiatric disorders.
Antibiotic resistance gene transmitted between pets at a UK animal hospital
Researchers discovered a gene that enables bacteria to resist linezolid in cats and dogs at a UK animal hospital, suggesting potential transmission between animals and humans.
Procedure time proves vital in thrombectomy success
Researchers at MUSC found that procedure time is vital in thrombectomy success, with diminishing returns after the 60-minute mark. The study suggests that surgeons should pause and reassess if a procedure is worth continuing beyond this point.
SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 15, 2019
CAR-T immunotherapy and multiple myeloma
A Phase 1 clinical trial of CAR-T therapy found an 88.2% overall response rate in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma. The treatment, called LCARB38M, targets the B-cell maturation antigen and achieved a stringent complete response in 13 patients.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 15, 2019
Tel Aviv University scientists print first 3D heart using patient's biological materials
Researchers successfully engineered and printed a 3D vascularised engineered heart with cells, blood vessels, ventricles, and chambers that matches the immunological, cellular, biochemical, and anatomical properties of the patient. The use of native patient-specific materials is crucial to eliminating implant rejection risks.
Pre-treatment mental health assessment of trans people 'dehumanizing' and 'unjustified'
Activists argue that pre-treatment mental health assessments of trans people are dehumanizing and unjustified, treating self-reports of gender dysphoria as if it were a mental illness. Informed consent should replace these assessments, respecting patients' autonomy and lived experience.
New CRISPR/Cas9 system adds genes to create mouse models of liver cancer
A new CRISPR/Cas9 system allows for precise gene knock-in in live cancer mouse models, improving efficiency and control over gene insertion. The system was used to model intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, a type of liver cancer, and successfully induced tumor formation in mice.
Turning silenced cancer genes back into fighters
Scientists successfully blocked cancer-fighting gene silencing protein UHRF1, restoring hundreds of protective genes in human colon cancer cells. The findings suggest a new strategy for fighting cancers by targeting this protein.
APOE gene has a gender-based effect on sleep behaviour of Alzheimer's disease patients
A recent study by Dr. David Munoz reveals the APOE ε4 allele affects sleep patterns differently in women and men with Alzheimer's disease. The research found carriers of this gene variant experience more nighttime disturbances than non-carriers, highlighting a gender-based effect on sleep behavior.
What happens in the bodies of ALS patients?
Researchers discovered that impaired FUS protein-protein interactions contribute to ALS degeneration, but drug-induced autophagy reduces pathological processes linked to aberrantly accumulated FUS. Stimulating autophagy rescued RNA-binding proteins and reduced neuronal death in cell culture experiments.
SLAC's high-speed 'electron camera' films molecular movie in HD
Researchers at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory have made the first high-definition 'movie' of ring-shaped molecules breaking open in response to light. The results provide high-resolution details of the reaction, showing how bonds break and atoms jiggle around for extended periods of time.
Scientists use eBird data to propose optimal bird conservation plan
A new study proposes a blueprint for conserving habitat across the Western Hemisphere to protect migratory birds. The research uses eBird data to calculate how much land must be conserved for each species, finding that working lands are more efficient than protected areas.
Solving the mystery of fertilizer loss from Midwest cropland
Researchers from Michigan State University used satellite imagery to quantify nitrogen losses in Midwestern corn fields. They found that nearly $1 billion worth of fertilizer is wasted annually, resulting in 6.8 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions.
Scientists get sly, use deception to fight cancer
Scientists at Hebrew University create decoy molecules that trick RNA-binding proteins into binding with them, inhibiting their cancer-promoting activity. The technology has shown promise in slowing or stopping the growth of brain and breast cancer cells in mice.
Light from exotic particle states
Researchers at TU Wien develop innovative light-emitting diode by harnessing radiative decay of exciton complexes in ultra-thin layers, enabling precise control over desired light wavelengths.
Primary care services account for a small share of Medicare spending, study finds
A new RAND Corporation study finds that primary care services account for only 2.12% to 4.88% of total medical and prescription spending among Medicare beneficiaries. This estimate is lower than previous studies, and highlights the importance of investing in primary care for better outcomes and lower costs.
Cell-type specific mechanism for formation and retrieval of cocaine-associated memories
The study found that suppression of glutamatergic pyramidal neurons in the medial prefrontal cortex inhibits both acquisition and expression of cocaine-associated memories. In contrast, GABAergic neurons were not affected. This suggests that mPFC pyramidal neurons are a potential therapeutic target for treating drug addiction.
To protect stem cells, plants have diverse genetic backup plans
A new study reveals that flowering plants employ different genetic strategies to maintain a 'core genetic circuitry' that ensures stem cell function, even in the presence of defects
Maternal gestational diabetes linked to diabetes in children
Children born to mothers with gestational diabetes are nearly twice as likely to develop diabetes before age 22. Early detection is crucial, as many cases are diagnosed when symptoms like frequent urination and weight loss arise.
SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 15, 2019
Drug reduces risk of kidney failure in people with diabetes, study finds
A landmark clinical trial shows that canagliflozin lowers the risk of kidney failure by 30% in people with Type 2 diabetes and kidney disease. The study also found a significant reduction in cardiovascular events, providing a promising new treatment option for patients at high risk.
Russian scientists alter 3D genome using 'small molecules'
Researchers have discovered that small molecule compounds can alter the spatial organization of the genome, potentially leading to new epigenetic cancer drugs. This breakthrough opens up a promising approach to treat cancer by changing the 3D genome structure.
How partisan politics could take a bite out of your wallet
Research by SDSU finance professors found that mutual fund managers invest more in firms with similar political leanings, leading to lower returns and higher volatility for clients. The study analyzed over 1,300 active mutual funds and 16,655 firms, revealing a partisan bias among fund managers' portfolios.
SourceSan Diego State University·JournalJournal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis·DateApr 15, 2019