Swifts are born to eat and sleep in the air
Researchers studied pallid swifts, finding they can live in the air for 2-3.5 months without landing. This allows them to avoid predators and parasites on the ground, increasing their survival rate.
Science News Archive 2019 - Page 404
Browse by Month - 2019
Page 404 of 486
Seawater bacteria provides leads to fight melanoma
Researchers found a promising lead in seriniquone, a natural product isolated from seawater bacteria, to treat melanoma. The compound targets a specific biochemical pathway in melanoma cells and has shown potent activity against the disease.
Scholar awarded Fulbright to study history of teaching music literacy through folk songs
Dr. Pamela Stover, a University of Toledo associate professor of music education, has been awarded a Fulbright grant to research the history of teaching music literacy through folk songs. She will delve into the institute's archives to study the development of the Kodály approach, which aims to preserve cultural heritage through music.
NYU Abu Dhabi study finds grasping motions led by visuo-haptic signals are most effective
Researchers found that visual and haptic information significantly improves grasp movements, demonstrating the nervous system's use of both types of information for optimal movement execution. The simultaneous availability of vision and haptics led to faster movements and a decrease in grip aperture.
Climate-driven evolution in trees alters their ecosystems
A new study explores how climate-driven evolution in tree populations changes their interaction with the soil environment, leading to reduced genetic variation and altered soil microbiome. Warmer temperatures result in earlier bud break and leaf-out, reducing genetic variation and affecting soil microbial communities.
CT scans offer clues to preventing heart problems after cancer treatment
A study found that radiologists only reported coronary artery calcium (CAC) on CT scans about half the time, despite its importance as a marker of heart health. This underreporting could lead to missed opportunities to identify and treat patients at high risk for heart problems, researchers say.
A groove is better with rhythm and harmony, new research shows
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that medium syncopation rhythms with simple and medium harmony complexity elicited the highest ratings of pleasure and movement. Harmony boosts the inverted U curve effect, making listeners want to move more when combined with rhythm.
Culturally sensitive conservation approaches needed to protect Ethiopian church forests
Research in Ethiopian sacred church forests reveals that human disturbances, such as buildings and clearings, significantly reduce forest density and species richness. Culturally sensitive conservation strategies are recommended to protect these forests, including restorative planting and protection of large trees.
Molecular connection between nutrient availability and embryonic growth identified
Researchers from the Center for Genomic Regulation have discovered a direct link between nutrient metabolism and gene regulation in embryonic stem cells. The AHCY protein is found to be a key activator of genes involved in controlling stem cell proliferation, with implications for understanding embryonic growth and infertility.
Ultrasound for thrombosis prevention
Researchers developed a new approach using ultrasonic registration of blood coagulation in its early stages to prevent thrombosis. The technique involves continuous monitoring of the blood's aggregate state and automatic injection of fibrinolytic drugs, allowing for fast and complete dissolution of formed fibrin clots.
New study finds pop lyrics contain just as many references to violence as hip-hop music
A new study by the University of Missouri found that pop music lyrics contain similar amounts of violence and misogyny as rap and hip-hop. Nearly one-third of popular songs analyzed contained references that degrade or demean women, highlighting the need for parental discussions about tricky lyrics.
New hepatitis C cases down by almost 70 percent in HIV-positive men in London
Regular screening and access to new treatments have significantly reduced the transmission of hepatitis C among HIV-positive men in London. The study, which analyzed data from over 6,000 patients, found that cases of newly acquired acute hepatitis C fell sharply between 2013 and 2018.
Old drugs bring new hope to a cancer that lacks precision therapy
Researchers have found a pair of old drugs that can disrupt disease-causing pathways in triple negative breast cancer. Metformin and heme, previously used to treat diabetes and porphyria, were tested in mice and produced encouraging results when combined.
Reducing B cells with CAR T cells is effective treatment of experimental lupus
A new study by Marko Radic and colleagues shows that CAR T cells can significantly reduce disease symptoms and progression in mice with lupus, improving lifespan and reducing inflammation. The findings offer a renewed optimism for eliminating B cells as a therapeutic option for lupus.
Over half of ED visits for nonmedical prescription drug use are patients under 35
Nonmedical prescription drug use leads to 360,000 ED visits in US, mostly benzodiazepines and opioids; young adults under 35 most affected. The study proposes expanding naloxone distribution and implementing screening for polysubstance use.
Many patients with atopic dermatitis experience symptoms of anxiety and depression
A study found substantially higher anxiety and depression rates among US adults with atopic dermatitis compared to those without. Virtually all patients with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis had symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Dust affects tooth wear and chewing efficiency in chimpanzees
Researchers found that increased dust loads result in decreased chewing efficiency in chimpanzees. The consumption of dust-covered foods created micrometer-scale surface texture features on cheek teeth, leading to larger mean fecal particle sizes.
SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateMar 6, 2019
Study finds Ebola survivors in Liberia face ongoing health issues
Researchers found Ebola survivors in Liberia had higher rates of uveitis, muscle pain, fatigue, and joint pain compared to a control group. Physical exams also revealed abnormal findings in abdominal, chest, and neurologic areas.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 6, 2019
Ion experiment aces quantum scrambling test
Researchers at Joint Quantum Institute demonstrate a new way to distinguish between quantum scrambling and true information loss using a small quantum computer. They achieved an accuracy of 80% in correctly diagnosing scrambling with seven atomic ions.
Timing of Medicare loss may affect long-term success of kidney transplantation
A new study found that losing Medicare coverage before the three-year post-transplant mark significantly increases the risk of kidney failure and decreases medication adherence. This has significant policy implications, highlighting the need for healthcare safety nets and access to immunosuppressive medications.
Higher fitness level can determine longer lifespan after age 70
A study published by the American College of Cardiology reveals that physical fitness is a stronger indicator of survival in older adults than traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Higher fitness levels were associated with significantly increased rates of survival, even among those with multiple risk factors.
Deep learning merges advantages of holography and bright-field microscopy for 3D imaging
Researchers developed Bright-field Holography to overcome limitations of holographic 3D imaging. The method combines the image contrast advantage of bright-field microscopy with the snapshot volumetric imaging capability of holography, allowing for rapid creation of images equivalent to those from a bright-field microscope.
Two-thirds of pregnant women under 25 in London have a mental health problem
New research funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) found that 67% of pregnant women in London aged between 16 and 24 years have mental health problems. Anxiety disorders are especially high, with social phobia being particularly prevalent.
NASA sees Tropical Cyclone Haleh weakening
Tropical Cyclone Haleh is weakening due to moderate to strong vertical wind shear, causing its elongation and eventual transition into an extra-tropical storm. The storm has decreased maximum sustained winds to 75 knots (86 mph/139 kph) and is forecast to continue weakening in two days.
Key genetic component may be linked to more aggressive cases of inflammatory bowel disease
A comprehensive analysis of 14 IBD patient groups and 1,800 intestinal biopsies pinpointed a key genetic component linked to more severe cases. The protein PAI-1 was found to exacerbate colon inflammation by targeting tPA, which protected against injury in mice
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 6, 2019
Scientists reveal Pacific North Equatorial Countercurrent weak biases in ocean models
Scientists found that wind stress and its curl are key factors in simulating the Pacific North Equatorial Countercurrent. Weak biases in these models affect tropical surface currents and climate simulations.
SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Advances in Modeling Earth Systems·DateMar 6, 2019
Sensory tests suggest 'liking' wines made with native grapes a learned response
Researchers found that non-expert consumers in Pennsylvania were more tolerant of methyl anthranilate, a compound causing the 'grapey' odor, due to frequent exposure to grape flavors. In contrast, wine experts in California rejected wines with high levels of methyl anthranilate. The study supports the idea that liking native grapes may...
1 + 1 does not equal 2 for graphene-like 2D materials
Researchers discovered that graphene-like materials stack together in a way that changes their properties, creating novel hybrid materials. The twist angle controls the hybridization, enabling precise control over composite materials and nano-devices.
CAMH study reveals a new target for developing treatments for depression
Researchers at CAMH have discovered a new target for developing treatments for depression by finding higher levels of the brain protein MAO-B in people with clinical depression. The study found that individuals with depression had 26% higher MAO-B levels in their prefrontal cortex compared to those without depression.
Study examines which schoolchildren are most likely to skip breakfast
A study of 177,091 Greek children found that nearly one in four skipped breakfast due to unhealthy lifestyle factors. Poor dietary habits, insufficient sleep, and excessive screen time significantly increased the likelihood of skipping breakfast.
High-intensity interval training helps trim belly fat in cardiac rehab
A study found that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) was more effective than moderate exercise in losing body fat and trimming waistlines among cardiac rehabilitation patients. After 12 weeks, HIIT participants lost 4 pounds of body fat, gained 1.5 pounds of lean muscle mass, and trimmed an inch off their waists.
Simulated extravehicular activity science operations for Mars exploration
The study focused on the design and results of the second field deployment of BASALT, identifying critical capabilities needed for science-driven EVAs. Researchers presented recommendations for future directions and subsequent research objectives.
Knee pain not linked with activity levels in adults with knee osteoarthritis
A study of 59 individuals with mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis found no association between daily walking levels and pain. Alleviating pain does not likely increase physical activity, suggesting strategies focus on overcoming barriers like lack of knowledge and sedentary lifestyle.
Chances for life expand when passing stars push binaries together
Astronomers find that binary star interactions can expand the habitable zone, increasing the likelihood of life on planets. Simulations reveal that 20 out of 350 binaries in young star clusters are squeezed together, expanding their habitable zones.
SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateMar 6, 2019
AI study of risk factors in type 1 diabetes
A recent AI study identified high long-term blood sugar levels, kidney dysfunction, and excess bad cholesterol as the strongest predictors of cardiovascular disease and death in type 1 diabetes patients. The study also found that keeping these risk factors under control can lead to lower risks of cardiovascular events.
High number of depression symptoms linked to increased risk of stroke
Researchers found that people with elevated symptoms of depression were 75% more likely to develop an ischemic stroke than those without depression. This association was seen even after adjusting for other risk factors.
Scientists tackle major challenges to sending astronauts to search for life on Mars
Researchers are investigating ways to conduct meaningful science and send valuable information back to Earth in the harsh Martian environment. Scientists have simulated mission conditions using basalt samples from Idaho and Hawaii, seeking clues to the ongoing search for life on Mars.
Transcription factor network gets to heart of wood formation
Researchers at NC State University have identified a complex transcriptional regulatory network that regulates wood formation in woody plants. The study reveals novel interactions between key transcription factors and genes, providing insights into the regulation of lignin biosynthesis and its relation to disease resistance.
People track when talkers say 'uh' to predict what comes next
In a study published in Journal of Memory and Language, researchers found that people actively track the occurrence of 'uh' in spoken communication to predict upcoming low-frequency words. Participants adjusted their predictions when listening to atypical talkers, suggesting distributional learning of disfluency cues.
SourceMax Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics·JournalJournal of Memory and Language·DateMar 6, 2019
Researchers outline goals for collecting and studying samples from Mars
A new paper proposes specific scientific objectives for a Mars Sample Return campaign to address fundamental questions about the planet. The study identifies critical measurements that would need to be done on returned samples to maximize their scientific value.
New insights into the geographical landscape of prehistoric central Tibet
A team of scientists has uncovered new evidence that suggests central Tibet was no higher than 2.3km with large lakes fringed by subtropical vegetation and deep valleys. The discovery uses ancient palm leaves to challenge previous estimates of the region's elevation.
Hurricane Maria had a significant impact on HIV care outcomes
A study found that Hurricane Maria led to a significant increase in viral load and decrease in CD4 counts among people living with HIV. Access to care was also reduced by over 22 percent, with those not virally suppressed before the hurricane having fewer medication adherence and more hospital visits.
BOHEMIA will develop a new vector control strategy to kill malaria-transmitting mosquitoes
A new vector control strategy is being developed by BOHEMIA, which uses ivermectin mass administration to kill malaria-transmitting mosquitoes. The project will conduct two clinical trials in Tanzania and Mozambique to evaluate the efficacy, safety, social science, and environmental impact of this approach.
Migrating snowline plays outsized role in setting pace of Greenland ice melt
Researchers at Brown University found that the movement of Greenland's snowline plays a crucial role in controlling the rate of ice melt. The study showed that changes in snowline elevation explained more than half of the annual radiation variability on the ice sheet, highlighting its importance in determining melting rates.
Strategies developed to include more racial and ethnic minorities in clinical trials
A study recommends innovative strategies to address underrepresentation of racial and ethnic minorities in clinical trials, highlighting the need for tailored approaches. The study identifies key components such as strategic engagement with providers, community leader engagement, and dedicated input from minority patients and caregiver...
Translocation of bighorn sheep in Arizona has positive genetic outcomes
A seven-year study found that translocating bighorn sheep in Arizona increased genetic diversity without eroding ancestral lineage. The research suggests that targeted translocations can maintain or enhance genetic outcomes, contrary to previous studies indicating 'genetic bottlenecks'.
Low-carb diet tied to common heart rhythm disorder
A large study of nearly 14,000 people found that low-carb diets are significantly more likely to develop atrial fibrillation, a type of arrhythmia that can lead to stroke and heart failure. Researchers suggest using caution when restricting carbohydrates for weight loss due to potential inflammation and oxidative stress.
Opioid use associated with dramatic rise in dangerous heart infection
Hospital admissions for drug-related infective endocarditis increased by 436% at a medical center in the US, with heroin implicated in most cases. Patients who inject drugs are at risk of developing this condition due to contaminated needles introducing bacteria into their bloodstream.
ECG rhythm and airway management make all the difference during a heart attack
A recent study published in The BMJ found a correlation between the use of advanced airway management and electrocardiographic rhythm during out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. For non-shockable patients, AAM was associated with improved outcomes, including recovering neurological function and early hospital discharge.
Engineered microbe may be key to producing plastic from plants
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison develop engineered microbe that can efficiently convert lignin from woody plants into a valuable aromatic compound. This conversion potential transforms the use of wood waste and unlocks a new industry for producing bioplastics.
Hundreds of children and llamas sacrificed in a ritual event in 15th century Peru
In a 15th century archaeological site in Peru, hundreds of bodies were found with cut marks suggesting chest removal during a ritual. The remains included over 140 children and 200 llamas, dated to around 1450 AD, indicating heavy rainfall may have inspired the sacrifice.
Breast milk as drug-delivery device
Scientists are working on modifying human breast milk cells to produce specific proteins, such as vaccines, for premature babies. These engineered cells could potentially address birth defects, provide necessary proteins, or even treat certain diseases.
Study reveals disparities in osteoporosis treatment by sex and race/ethnicity
A recent study reveals significant disparities in osteoporosis treatment among elderly Americans, with men and blacks being undertreated compared to women and whites. The findings highlight the need for improved osteoporosis management strategies that address these disparities.
States with strict gun laws see more homicides when they border states with lax ones
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine reveals that states with strict gun laws experience higher homicide rates when neighboring states have more lenient laws. The research suggests that gun trafficking across state lines plays a significant role in this relationship.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery·DateMar 6, 2019
Breast cancer patients weigh in on addressing financial burdens
US breast cancer patients experience significant economic burdens due to treatment side effects like lymphedema. Patients advocate for policy changes and institutional adaptations to address these challenges. Recommendations include improved insurance coverage, expanded support services, and enhanced financial assistance.
Elegant interplay of coloration strategies is discovered in squid's smart skin
Researchers from Northeastern University and the Marine Biological Laboratory discovered that squid chromatophores use both pigmentary and structural coloration to create dynamic effects. This breakthrough opens up new opportunities for biologists and chemists to better understand cephalopod biology and develop wearable devices or coat...
Disrupting wolf movement may be more effective at protecting caribou
A new study reveals that disrupting the ability of wolves to travel on linear developments, such as pipelines and roads, can reduce their access to caribou habitat. This strategy is more effective and less invasive than traditional methods like wolf culling or building fenced enclosures.
More than just memories: a new role for the hippocampus during learning
Researchers found that the hippocampus uniquely represents bound features, such as faces and houses combined, which is essential for forming complex associations during learning. The study's findings have important implications for understanding how the brain's memory systems contribute to learning and decision-making.
Resistance training may help prevent type 2 diabetes
A randomized controlled trial found that resistance training and aerobic training plus resistance training significantly reduced the incidence of type 2 diabetes. The study showed that these exercise programs can be as effective as isolated aerobic training in preventing overt type 2 diabetes.
Researchers get $1 million grant to improve medical data security
The UMass Lowell team will explore new ways of sharing data across different organizations compliant with HIPAA, enabling efficient collaboration among patients, researchers, and practitioners. The project aims to develop a secure cyberinfrastructure that can handle sensitive data, including homeland security and counterterrorism.