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Science News Archive April 2019 - Page 8


Page 8 of 44

Healthy aging entails reorganization of function in prefrontal brain areas

Researchers analyzed 82 studies on working memory mechanisms in adults of different age groups. Meta-analyses showed that brain function decreases agreement with aging, suggesting functional reorganization in the prefrontal cortex. This changes may be a sign of compensatory function or increased variability in older adults.

Bringing information into the cell

Researchers at PSI have produced the most detailed image to date of a type of membrane protein involved in signal transmission. They discovered that this protein inhibits itself, preventing overproduction of cAMP, an important secondary messenger in cell signaling.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalScience·DateApr 25, 2019

Injections, exercise promote muscle regrowth after atrophy in mice, study finds

Researchers have discovered that injecting cells called pericytes into muscles depleted by inactivity can help restore lost muscle mass. The treatment showed significant improvement in muscle recovery compared to those who regained mobility without injections, particularly in older adults and disabled individuals.

Biomimicry of basic instinct

Chemical engineers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a system that mimics feeding, fighting, and fleeing responses in microbial particles. The system uses catalyst-coated sheets to create chemical gradients, allowing particles to respond to their environment and interact with each other.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 25, 2019

WINTHER trial results

The WINTHER trial successfully matched personalized therapy to 35% of patients with advanced cancer, showing improved overall survival for those with a high degree of matching. The trial's strategy employed RNA expression testing to tailor treatment based on gene expression differences between tumors and normal tissues.

SourceWIN Consortium·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 25, 2019

Dengue research in the Philippines evolving over time

Researchers reviewed 60 years of dengue literature to identify trends and knowledge gaps in the Philippines. The study found that the number of dengue publications increased, but there are still gaps in basic laboratory research and newer intervention measures.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateApr 25, 2019

Dermcidin may play role in the pathogenesis of skin disease hidradenitis suppurativa

Researchers at the George Washington University found dermcidin, an antimicrobial peptide, is downregulated in hidradenitis suppurativa skin, suggesting its role in disease pathogenesis. The study suggests multiple biological pathways are disrupted in HS, warranting further investigation into new therapeutic options.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalClinical and Experimental Dermatology·DateApr 25, 2019

'13 Reasons Why' and young adults' risk of suicide

Researchers found that viewers who watched the entire second season of '13 Reasons Why' were less likely to report recent self-harm and thoughts of ending their lives compared to those who didn't watch at all. Young adults, particularly students, showed increased risk for future suicide when watching only part of the series.

How to combine 'leg day' with running

James Cook University scientists found that ignoring recovery between endurance and resistance training can impair endurance development. The team suggests prioritizing recovery periods and adjusting training variables such as intensity and volume to minimize fatigue between modes of training.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalSports Medicine·DateApr 25, 2019

Accounting for ice-earth feedbacks at finer scale suggests slower glacier retreat

Researchers found that accounting for the grounding line's interaction with the solid earth reveals a delayed ice sheet collapse, slowing glacier retreat at major ice structures like Thwaites Glacier. This reduces sea level rise projections by over 25%. Fine-scale feedbacks improve predictions and guide future research.