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Science News for August 22, 2019


Switching on the Atlantic heat pump

Researchers found that a dramatic increase in North Atlantic salinity caused the Arctic-Atlantic gateway to close, preventing ocean-sinking and kickstarting the modern circulation. The study suggests that changes in the Atlantic conveyor belt could dramatically alter Europe's climate in a future warm world.

SourceStockholm University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 22, 2019

High diversity of harvestmen in Atlantic Rainforest and ancient geological events

The study found that ancient geological events, such as mountain range uplift and river formation, drove the emergence of new species of harvestmen in the southern portion of the Atlantic Rainforest. This discovery challenges the assumption that climate fluctuations are the primary cause of high biodiversity in this biome.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·DateAug 22, 2019

Preventing tumor metastasis

Scientists at the Paul Scherrer Institute deciphered the structure of CCR7 receptor, which plays a crucial role in cancer cell migration. They identified an artificial molecule that blocks this receptor, preventing signaling protein from triggering a chain reaction leading to cell migration.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalCell·DateAug 22, 2019

The Paleozoic diet: Why animals eat what they eat

A study published in Evolution Letters reveals that many carnivorous species share a common ancestor dating back 800 million years, while herbivory is more recent. The research suggests that animals tend to adopt the same dietary category as their closely related species, implying that switching diets may not be easy.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalEvolution Letters·DateAug 22, 2019

Training teams for timely NICU evacuation

Children's National Hospital's NICU staff underwent evacuation simulation training to improve their skills and knowledge. The training, which included hands-on practice with mannequins and equipment, resulted in significant improvements in evacuation times and staff confidence.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalThe Journal of Perinatal & Neonatal Nursing·DateAug 22, 2019

Tracing the evolution of vision

Researchers find that opsin proteins and retinal enzymes have independent biological functions beyond vision, including hearing. This discovery challenges current understanding of eye evolution and highlights the importance of molecular components in multiple sensory pathways.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 22, 2019

New tool mines scientific texts for fusion protein facts

A new tool called ProtFus screens scientific literature to validate predictions about fusion protein activity, which can help improve personalized cancer treatment. The tool identified 2,908 interactions across 18 cancer types, aiding in the study of alterations of protein networks for individual patients.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateAug 22, 2019

Slow electrons to combat cancer

Ion beams use ions to create complex atomic effects, releasing slow electrons that destroy DNA of cancer cells. Researchers at TU Wien discovered interatomic Coulombic decay, a previously little-observed effect, plays a pivotal role in this context.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateAug 22, 2019

Researchers discover how the sun damages our skin

Researchers found that UV radiation damages skin by weakening cell bonds, leading to structural degradation and increased tissue fragility. The study suggests using sunscreen to protect not only against skin cancer but also to maintain skin health and prevent infections.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials·DateAug 22, 2019

Revealing the molecular engine that drives pancreatic cancer provides ways to turn it off

A team of researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center has identified a chain of molecules critical for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) growth and survival. Inhibiting this 'Yap' biological network may effectively regress early-stage PDAC, and pairing it with other drugs could halt more advanced stage tumors.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateAug 22, 2019

Computer model could help test new sickle cell drugs

A team of Brown University researchers developed a new computer model to simulate the way red blood cells become misshapen in sickle cell disease. The model can be used to quickly and inexpensively pre-screen new drug candidates, potentially identifying promising treatments for the genetic disorder that affects millions worldwide.

SourceBrown University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 22, 2019

Nano-thermometer takes temperature inside cells

Researchers developed a fluorescent nano-thermometer that can detect temperature changes inside single cells by monitoring the light-emitting properties of molecular motors. The technique could be useful for identifying cancer cells and measuring the effects of tumor ablation therapy.

SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateAug 22, 2019

New insights: Improving function, independence and quality of life of individuals with cerebral palsy

This special issue in the Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine highlights the importance of multidisciplinary care in managing cerebral palsy. The articles cover various topics, including scoliosis care, goal setting, exercise programs and nutritional care, to improve outcomes for individuals with CP.

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine·DateAug 22, 2019

Yale researchers detect unreported Zika outbreak

Researchers detected a large unreported Zika outbreak in Cuba during 2017, using virus genomics and travel patterns to identify the outbreak. The study suggests that effective mosquito control campaigns can delay outbreaks, emphasizing the need for alternative detection methods when local case reporting is limited.

SourceYale University·JournalCell·DateAug 22, 2019

Quantum gravity's tangled time

Researchers have successfully described what happens when a massive object is placed in a quantum superposition state near clocks, defying classical descriptions. This discovery reveals that quantum time order can arise, leading to new physical effects and potential applications for quantum technologies.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 22, 2019

'100-year' floods will happen every 1 to 30 years, according to new flood maps

Researchers at Princeton University have created new maps that predict coastal flooding for every county on the Eastern and Gulf Coasts. The study finds that 100-year floods could become annual occurrences in Northern coastal towns, primarily due to sea level rise. In more southern latitudes, storms are expected to increase in strength...

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 22, 2019

Genetic diversity couldn't save Darwin's finches

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati discovered that six out of eight extinct Galapagos finch populations had higher genetic diversity than their surviving counterparts. This finding suggests that genetic diversity may not be a reliable predictor of extinction risk for mobile species like finches.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalConservation Genetics·DateAug 22, 2019

Heavy drinking and HIV don't mix

Researchers found that heavy alcohol consumption is associated with altered immune function among people living with HIV, leading to higher levels of biomarkers linked to mortality. The study highlights the potential harms of heavy drinking on people with HIV and emphasizes the need for further research.

New report finds 100% juice helps improve children's diet quality

A new report by pediatrician Dr. Robert D. Murray supports the inclusion of 100% juice in a healthy diet, citing positive attributes such as retaining key nutrients and bioactives. The study also found that consuming both whole fruit and juice is essential for meeting daily-recommended fruit servings and improving overall diet quality.

SourceKellen Communications - NY·JournalJournal of the American College of Nutrition·DateAug 22, 2019

Early life on Earth limited by enzyme

A study proposes that the nitrogenase enzyme, essential for photosynthesis, blocked its own activity at 2% atmospheric oxygen levels, stabilizing oxygen levels for nearly two billion years. This negative feedback loop prevented further oxygen production and explains why oxygen levels rose to today's levels.

Systemic failures in public health system led to deaths in elderly patients

A leading public health expert warns of systemic failures in the public health system that led to the deaths of 17 elderly patients. The expert draws parallels with two major incidents in the mid-1980s, highlighting the need for strengthened public health and better links between the NHS and local government.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateAug 22, 2019

CRISPR-responsive hydrogel system offers programmable approach to smart biomaterials

Researchers developed a CRISPR-responsive hydrogel system that can be programmed to release compounds, nanoparticles, or live cells in response to specific DNA targets. The system's sensitivity and versatility make it suitable for various biomedical applications, including tissue engineering, bio-electronics, and biosensing.

The case for managed retreat

Managed retreat can achieve societal goals like community revitalization, equity, and sustainability. However, barriers include financial constraints and psychological issues, which must be addressed through strategic planning and social programs. Implementing equitable relocation policies is crucial to ensure the most vulnerable house...

SourceStanford University·JournalScience·DateAug 22, 2019

Super-powered immune cells

Researchers are conducting a phase 1 clinical trial using CAR-T cells, which have been shown to attack and kill cancers. The goal is to learn more about how these super-powered immune cells interact with solid tumors to develop effective treatments for various types of cancer.

Shocking rate of plant extinctions in South Africa

According to a study published in Current Biology, 79 plants have been confirmed extinct from South Africa's three biodiversity hotspots since 1700, representing 45.4% of all known plant extinctions from 10 world hotspots. The main drivers for these extinctions are agriculture, urbanisation, and invasive species.

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 22, 2019

Lower levels of dietary vitamins and antioxidants are linked to frailty in older adults

Researchers from Trinity College Dublin found that lower levels of specific vitamins and antioxidants are consistently associated with frailty in older adults. The study also suggests that micronutrient insufficiencies may act as an easily modified marker for frailty, offering new potential treatments.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalJournal of the American Medical Directors Association·DateAug 22, 2019