Signal blocks stem cell division in the geriatric brain
Researchers found that Id4 controls whether stem cells remain in a state of rest or enter cell division, with increasing age leading to hyperactive signaling pathway inhibiting cell division.
Science News for August 28, 2019
NASA finds wind shear affecting Tropical Depression Erin
Tropical Depression Erin's strong northwesterly vertical wind shear pushed most of its clouds and thunderstorms southeast, weakening the storm. The cyclone strengthened into a tropical storm despite the wind shear, but weakened back to a depression by 11 a.m. EDT.
MIPT physicists create device for imitating biological memory
Researchers from MIPT created a second-order memristor that stores information and forgets it over time, mimicking natural memory. The device is based on hafnium oxide and has potential applications in designing analog neurocomputers.
SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateAug 28, 2019
Break in temporal symmetry produces molecules that can encode information
Researchers at São Paulo State University discovered that breaking time-reversal symmetry creates molecules with spin-polarized orbitals, allowing for the encoding of information. This phenomenon could be exploited in quantum computing and spintronics to develop faster, more efficient devices.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 28, 2019
Kids wore video cameras in their preschool class, for science
A new study found that children in preschool have unique interactions with teachers and peers, with some interacting more with their teacher than others. The study used video cameras to capture the class environment from each child's perspective.
Waist size, not body mass index, may be more predictive of coronary artery disease
A new study finds that waist size, not overall obesity, is a significant predictor of coronary artery disease in postmenopausal women. The study, published in Menopause, found no association between body mass index and obstructive cardiovascular disease.
Researchers describe a mechanism inducing self-killing of cancer cells
A new mechanism was discovered that induces programmed cell death in cancer cells by disrupting ion homeostasis, leading to increased reactive oxygen species and endoplasmic reticulum stress. This approach has been shown to strongly inhibit tumor growth in animal models.
SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateAug 28, 2019
Climate change affects floods in Europe
A large international study led by TU Wien demonstrates climate change's influence on river flood magnitude. Regional patterns show changes in flood severity and frequency, with northwestern Europe experiencing increasing floods and southern Europe seeing decreasing flood levels.
New DNA sequencer method achieves early-stage and broad-range detection of wheat diseases
A new DNA sequencing method can detect early-stage wheat diseases with high accuracy, addressing the limitations of traditional methods. This portable technology can also identify unknown pathogens and diagnose unexpected diseases, saving time and money in agricultural biosecurity monitoring.
High-end microscopy reveals structure and function of crucial metabolic enzyme
Researchers have visualized the atomic structure of the metabolic enzyme transhydrogenase (NNT) using cryo-electron microscopy. The study reveals the enzyme's channel gating mechanism and has implications for understanding metabolic regulation and developing novel therapies.
What we don't know about prenatal opioid exposure
A review of 52 publications found inconsistent results on the effects of prenatal opioid exposure on childhood outcomes and development. Studies showed some null effects of opioid exposure on cognitive and behavioral outcomes, but behavioral effects emerged as children got older.
Clostridium difficile infections may have a friend in fungi
Researchers have discovered fungi that flourish in people infected with C. difficile, suggesting a potential new way to treat the disease. The findings suggest that fungal species may contribute to the development of C. difficile infections and could be used as a therapeutic target.
Molecular big data, a new weapon for medicine
The BC2 Basel Computational Biology Conference aims to bridge the gap between Big Data and clinical applications, featuring renowned experts from precision oncology to infectious diseases. Key takeaways include the importance of single-cell data in cancer research and biological big data analysis methods.
Clickbait secrets exposed! Humans and AI team up to improve clickbait detection
Researchers trained an AI model using human-generated clickbait data, resulting in improved performance compared to other systems. The study found differences in headline creation between humans and machines, highlighting the need for high-quality training data to improve machine learning models.
AAN issues guideline on vaccines and multiple sclerosis
The American Academy of Neurology has issued a new guideline recommending that people with multiple sclerosis receive recommended vaccinations, including yearly flu shots. The guideline updates previous recommendations and emphasizes the importance of preventing infections through vaccine use in MS patients.
New insights into genetic basis of bird migration
Researchers identify VPS13A gene associated with migratory behavior in golden-winged and blue-winged warblers, shedding light on the complex genetic factors behind bird migration. The study's findings may have important conservation implications for declining populations of these species.
Probiotic use can lead to major economic and health savings related to flu-like illnesses
A study found that general probiotic use could save the US healthcare system $1.4 billion annually by reducing acute respiratory tract infections, including influenza-like illnesses. Probiotics were associated with a decrease in doctor visits and sick absences, leading to significant cost savings.
Science wages a battle against the swine sector's costliest virus
Researchers from the University of Córdoba have discovered that high-virulence strains of PRRSV cause earlier and greater damage than low-virulence strains. This study aims to develop vaccines that reduce mortality in the pig sector by understanding the behavior of the virus in infected animals.
A gentle grip on gelatinous creatures
A new underwater gripper developed by researchers at Harvard's Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering has successfully caught and released jellyfish without causing harm. The ultra-soft gripper uses hydraulic pressure to wrap around a single jellyfish, then release it, allowing for extensive study of marine organisms.
SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience Robotics·DateAug 28, 2019
Addition of growth factors to unique system helps new bone formation
Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago developed a system to deliver stem cells and provide mechanical stress for new bone formation. The addition of growth factors mimics embryonic bone development, leading to enhanced healing of bone defects in rat models.
Southern Ocean circulation patterns that keep the lid on stored carbon are more complex than previously thought
Research reveals that horizontal and vertical circulation of carbon-rich ocean water in the subpolar Southern Ocean work together to control carbon storage and release. The study found that large gyres, such as the Weddell Gyre, play a key role in transporting carbon-containing phytoplankton out of the region.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 28, 2019
3D printing nanoparticle neural probes
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have received a $1.95 million grant to create customizable, ultra-high density neural probes using 3D nanoparticle printing. This new technology will increase accessibility to brain tissue and enable prototype new electrode configurations on-demand.
KAIST vaccine for tick-borne disease 'SFTS' protects against lethal infection
Researchers developed a DNA vaccine for Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome Virus (SFTSV) that completely protects against lethal infection in ferrets. The vaccine induces both neutralizing antibody response and multifunctional T cell immunity.
SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 28, 2019
Hydrophobic silica colloid electrolyte holds promise for safer Li-O2 batteries
Researchers have developed a new electrolyte regulation strategy for Li-O2 batteries using hydrophobic silica colloidal particles. The strategy prevents lithium dendrite growth and corrosion, achieving a 980-times better anticorrosion effect and stable long-life electrochemical performance.
Busy older stars outpace stellar youngsters, new study shows
Researchers analyze data from Gaia satellite and spectroscopy to find that older stars move more rapidly in and out of the Galaxy's disk. The findings provide insights into the history of our Galaxy and inform theories about star formation and evolution.
SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateAug 28, 2019
UCI-led study: Plankton are more resilient to nutrient stress than previously thought
A UCI-led team has created the first high-resolution map of ocean surface phosphate, showing that marine phytoplankton are more resilient to nutrient stress than previously believed. This finding holds important implications for climate change predictions, as plankton communities can thrive even in nutrient-deficient environments.
AI learns to model our Universe
Researchers developed a neural network model using machine learning to predict Universe structure formation. The new model is more accurate than existing analytic methods and efficient enough for large-scale simulations.
SourceKavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 2019
Paleontologists discovered diversity of insect pollinators in 99-million-year-old amber
Four new species of extinct Paradoxosisyrinae were discovered in Burmese amber, revealing nectar-feeding habits and inefficient proboscis design. Researchers found the insects could not seal their proboscis for effective nectar uptake, limiting their ability to feed on deep-flowered plants.
Small changes, big gains: Low-cost techniques dramatically boost learning in STEM classes
A new study found that low-cost active teaching techniques, such as group work and worksheets, significantly improve learning in university science classes. Increasing class time dedicated to group work by just 10% resulted in a 3% improvement in student performance.
HIV-positive New Yorkers are living longer but still dying from underlying infection, not just from old age
A review of autopsy reports reveals that early in the HIV epidemic, the average age of death was 36, increasing to 54 by 2010 due to development of antiviral therapies. However, people are still dying predominantly from underlying disease rather than just old age, with infections like pneumonia and hepatitis C contributing to deaths.
SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalArchives of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine·DateAug 28, 2019
Robotic thread is designed to slip through the brain's blood vessels
Researchers at MIT have designed a robotic thread that can navigate the brain's blood vessels using magnets, aiming to improve endovascular procedures for treating stroke and aneurysms. The thread can be functionalized to deliver drugs or break up blockages with laser light.
High-tech gel aids delivery of drugs
Researchers have developed a hydrogel-based carrier that can deliver siRNAs directly to tumors, overcoming the challenge of rapid degradation and limited cellular entry. This innovative technology has the potential to improve the effectiveness of siRNA-based cancer treatments and enable more efficient delivery of biologics.
Global study reveals most popular marketing metrics
A global study found that satisfaction is the most popular metric for marketing decisions worldwide. The study analyzed over 4,000 marketing plans from 1,600 companies across 16 countries, revealing a significant relationship between total metric use and marketing performance.
SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalJournal of International Business Studies·DateAug 28, 2019
Brain stem cells have a good memory
Researchers at UNIGE have discovered that brain progenitor cells can recover their past skills and rejuvenate when transplanted into a young mouse embryo. This finding sheds light on how the brain constructs itself and opens up new possibilities for cortical neuroregeneration.
A face for Lucy's ancestor
Researchers discovered a remarkably complete 3.8-million-year-old cranium of Australopithecus anamensis in Ethiopia, revealing new insights into human evolution. The fossil finds contradict the long-held notion of a linear transition between A. anamensis and its descendant species A. afarensis.
Teen birth control use linked to depression risk in adulthood
Women who used oral contraceptives during adolescence are more likely to develop depression as adults, according to a new study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry. The research found that teenage birth control pill users were up to three times more likely to be clinically depressed in adulthood.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateAug 28, 2019
Scientists call for infiltration to be better incorporated into land surface models
A review of current land surface models highlights the need for more accurate infiltration predictions, which affect erosion control and water supply. The authors recommend increasing attention to soil structure, moisture, temperature, precipitation, terrain, and plants in these models.
Giving trauma patients blood pressure stabilizing hormone cuts transfusions by half
A new clinical trial from Penn Medicine found that administering arginine vasopressin to trauma patients with severe bleeding can significantly reduce the need for blood products, a promising way to save lives. The study, published in JAMA Surgery, showed that patients treated with AVP required less than half the usual volume of blood ...
High-protein bedtime snacks no problem for active women
Researchers challenge widespread misconceptions about nighttime eating and weight gain, finding protein consumption before bed has no effect on belly fat metabolism or whole-body fat burn in active women. Contrary to previous beliefs, a high-protein snack at night can actually have beneficial effects on fat release and metabolism.
Climate change, human activity lead to nearshore coral growth decline
Nearshore corals, which grow faster than offshore counterparts due to warmer temperatures, have experienced a decline in growth rates over the past decade. Climate change and coastal development are believed to be major contributors to this decline, with far-reaching implications for global coral reefs.
A 3.8-million-year-old fossil from Ethiopia reveals the face of Lucy's ancestor
Researchers uncover remarkably complete cranium of Australopithecus anamensis, a 3.8-million-year-old early human ancestor. The discovery contradicts long-held notions of human evolution, revealing that Lucy's species and its ancestor coexisted for at least 100,000 years.
Depression linked to costly chronic medical conditions and disability among aging minorities
Studies find that older Chinese Americans with depressive symptoms experience increased functional disabilities, mobility issues, and comorbid chronic health conditions. Comorbidity increases emergency room visits, hospitalizations, medical costs, and mortality rates among this population.
New sequencing study provides insight into HIV vaccine protection
A new study identified a transcriptional signature in B cells that correlates with protection from SIV or HIV infection in five independent trials of HIV-1 vaccine candidates. The gene expression signature was found to be associated with the only human HIV vaccine trial that previously showed modest efficacy, RV144.
SourceThe U.S. Military HIV Research Program (MHRP)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 28, 2019
Start-ups must be aware of star employee pitfalls
Research from Washington State University reveals that hiring star employees alongside founders can stall product innovation efforts due to conflicting influences. The study advises start-ups to establish clear chain of command, hire experienced start-up employees, and adapt to change as the organization evolves.
Popular pain medication associated with greater risk of hypoglycemia
Research from University of California - San Diego found a significant association between tramadol use and an increased risk of developing hypoglycemia. The study analyzed over 12 million reports and identified a 10-fold greater risk compared to other opioids, with methadone being the only other drug with comparable effect.
New technology could make fracking cheaper, easier on environment
University of Kansas researchers have developed a new technology that could improve subsurface fracture characterization, visualization, and diagnostics of unconventional reservoirs. The innovative approach uses smart microchip proppants that generate real-time data to optimize well spacing and completion design, potentially reducing e...
Parental burnout can lead to harmful outcomes for parent and child
A recent study published in Clinical Psychological Science found that parental burnout can lead to increased neglect, violence, and thoughts of escape. The research suggests that self-care is essential for parents and that health professionals need to be aware of parental burnout to provide accurate diagnosis and care.
Isotopes in poop show where secretive jaguars hunt
Researchers analyzed strontium, carbon, and nitrogen isotopes in jaguar scat to identify prey habitats. The study found that jaguars in Belize were not competing with livestock for resources, providing reassurance for conservation efforts.
NASA sees Dorian become a hurricane
NASA's Terra satellite captures images of Hurricane Dorian near St. Thomas on August 28, 2019, confirming its Category 1 status. The storm is expected to continue strengthening over the Atlantic waters, posing a threat to the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and other regions.
Some vaccine doubters may be swayed by proximity to disease outbreak, study finds
A study published in PLOS ONE found that individuals' vaccination attitudes are shaped by their proximity to a disease outbreak, particularly for those who distrust government medical experts. On the other hand, people with high levels of trust in government experts are not affected by disease proximity.
Study finds many psychiatric disorders have heightened impulsivity
A meta-analysis of 40 studies reveals that individuals with psychiatric disorders such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder exhibit heightened impulsivity. The study suggests a continuum between impulsive and self-controlled decision-making across different disorders.
Ancient die-off greater than the dinosaur extinction
A new study found a previously unknown mass extinction event involving minuscule microorganisms, which shaped the Earth's atmosphere approximately 2.05 billion years ago. This die-off is estimated to be even greater than the dinosaur extinction, revealing significant changes in the planet's biosphere.
SourceStanford's School of Earth, Energy & Environmental Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 28, 2019
Community-based wildlife carcass surveillance is key for early detection of Ebola virus
A community-based wildlife mortality surveillance system has been implemented in Republic of Congo to detect Ebola outbreaks early. The program, developed by WCS and NIH, reaches over 6,600 people and covers an area of 50,000 km2.
SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateAug 28, 2019
Researchers identify a gene linked to needing less sleep
Researchers have identified a new gene, ADRB1, that regulates sleep duration, found in individuals requiring significantly less sleep. The gene's variant was shown to alter the receptor's function, leading to shorter sleep periods.
New optical array, multisite stimulator advances optogenetics
Researchers have developed an implantable optrode array capable of exciting below-surface neurons in large mammal brains. The new device addresses challenges in optical stimulation and neuroscience, enabling studies to link neural activity to specific cognitive functions.
Little-used drug combination may extend the lives of lung transplant patients
Researchers identified a drug combination that significantly extends patient survival in lung transplant recipients, offering a potential solution to the median survival rate of less than six years after transplantation. Sirolimus plus tacrolimus was associated with a better median survival than MMF plus tacrolimus.
How your brain remembers motor sequences
The study reveals that overlapping regions in premotor and parietal cortices represent sequences in multiple levels of motor hierarchy. The primary motor cortex uniquely represents individual finger movements. This finding provides insights into the brain's complex representation of motor sequences.
SourceNational Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT)·JournalNeuron·DateAug 28, 2019
Using artificial intelligence to track birds' dark-of-night migrations
Researchers at UMass Amherst and Cornell Lab of Ornithology have developed a machine learning system called MistNet to analyze large-scale bird migration data. The tool allows for automation of data processing, enabling scientists to extract valuable information on bird migrations over the continental US.
Canadian astronomers determine Earth's fingerprint
Two McGill University astronomers have assembled a transit spectrum of Earth, a fingerprint of the planet's atmosphere in infrared light. This detection could help scientists identify planets capable of supporting life, such as TRAPPIST-1 system with seven habitable zone planets.
Changing climate linked to major changes in flooding across Europe
A multinational study has shown that flood events are becoming increasingly severe in north-western Europe, while decreasing in southern and Eastern Europe. The research, which analyzed river flow data from thousands of locations over a 50-year period, provides clear evidence of the link between climate change and flooding.
Chance, not ideology, drives political polarization
A new study suggests that chance and opinion cascades, rather than deeply rooted ideological differences, drive political polarization. The researchers found that early movers can trigger a cascade in which later partisans pile on to their party's position, leading to large political differences.
Cancer cells 'corrupt' their healthy neighbors
Researchers found that non-cancerous cells in tumor microenvironment regress into stem cell-like state, supporting cancer growth. This 'corruption' of neighboring cells enables cancer to thrive and spread.
Behavioral therapy, physical strengthening may prevent disability in minority elders
A randomized controlled trial of Positive Minds-Strong Bodies (PMSB) intervention shows improved functioning and mood in racial and ethnic minority and immigrant older adults. The culturally tailored intervention significantly improves mood symptoms and functioning.
SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateAug 28, 2019
The role of a single molecule in obesity
A single cholesterol-derived molecule, 27-hydroxycholesterol (27HC), has been found to increase body fat even without a high-fat diet. The molecule affects white adipose tissue and expands the capacity of existing fat cells.
New MRI computing technique can spot scar muscles of heart without damaging kidneys
Researchers at University of Warwick have developed a new 3D MRI computing technique that can detect scar muscles in the heart without using gadolinium, which can damage kidneys. This technique reduces stress for patients undergoing MRI scans and provides more precise diagnoses, enabling earlier treatment for heart diseases.
First report of superconductivity in a nickel oxide material
Researchers at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory have made the first nickel oxide material that exhibits clear superconducting properties. The discovery is significant as it opens up new possibilities for high-temperature superconductors, which could revolutionize electronic devices and power transmission.
Planned delivery reduces impact of potentially fatal pregnancy complication, trial finds
Researchers at King's College London found that early planned delivery for women with preterm pre-eclampsia reduces maternal complications and severe hypertension. The study also showed lower costs compared to the current method of care in the UK.
Microbiota in home indoor air may protect children from asthma
A study by Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare found that large amounts of certain bacteria from outdoors may protect children from asthma. High diversity of microbes is important in protecting against asthma, but certain soil microbes provide more effective protection.
SourceFinnish Institute for Health and Welfare·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateAug 28, 2019
Healthy foods more important than type of diet to reduce heart disease risk
Researchers found that all three healthy diets emphasized different macronutrients reduced heart cell damage and inflammation. The findings suggest that flexibility in food selection is key to improving cardiovascular health.
SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalInternational Journal of Cardiology·DateAug 28, 2019
Unusual mucous-like substance found buried within seafloor sediment
Researchers have found biofilms, visible to the naked eye, in cracks of methane-rich sediment in Arctic waters. These findings shed new light on anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM) and its impact on climate change.
Cell biology -- Potential drop signals imminent danger
LMU biologists have identified a general alarm signal that activates the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) in mitochondria, ensuring protein degradation and restoring normal cell function. The signaling pathway is triggered by a decline in mitochondrial membrane potential and involves transcription factor ATFS-1.
A new drug could revolutionize the treatment of neurological disorders
An international team of scientists has discovered a potential drug that may prevent neuronal death through glucose metabolism modification. The new drug shows promise in treating conditions such as Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and traumatic brain injury.
Fresh water found in the Norwegian Sea
Scientists have discovered fresh water leaking from the seabed in the Norwegian Sea, similar to a large underwater aquifer found in the Atlantic Ocean along the US East Coast. The aquifer could be a potential resource for areas with no drinking water on land.
Narrowing risk of preeclampsia to a specific phenotype
Researchers at MUSC have identified a specific lipoprotein phenotype associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes. Monitoring these patients closely and taking proactive measures to keep their blood pressure down can help prevent the complication.
SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateAug 28, 2019
After 10-year search, scientists find second 'short sleep' gene
Researchers identified a second gene associated with natural short sleep, ADRB1, which promotes wakefulness and regulates sleep. The study suggests that short sleepers experience better sleep quality and sleep efficiency, despite potential health risks.
Exposure to second-hand e-cigarettes increasing among young people
A national survey found that about one-third of middle- and high-school students were exposed to vaping aerosols in 2018, a 30% increase from previous years. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported an alarming rise in second-hand e-cigarette exposure among young people.
Stretchable wireless sensor could monitor healing of cerebral aneurysms
A stretchable wireless sensor can monitor the healing of cerebral aneurysms by detecting changes in blood flow. The sensor, fabricated using aerosol jet 3D printing, can be seamlessly integrated onto existing medical stents and measures an incoming blood flow to determine how well the aneurysm is healing.
Singapore researchers reveal a common deficiency in genetic prediction methods
Artificial intelligence methods used to predict enhancer-promoter interactions may result in inflated performance measurements. The study highlights the need for careful experimental design when applying machine learning to genomic research.
Research sheds new light on Antarctic control of global climate
A new study reveals that biological processes in the polar Southern Ocean are the key drivers of carbon dioxide absorption, challenging existing assumptions. This finding has significant implications for understanding past and future climate change.
Nanoparticles 'click' immune cells to make a deeper penetration into tumors
A novel targeting strategy using a click reaction-assisted immune cell targeting (CRAIT) method enables deep tumor penetration of drug-loaded nanoparticles. This approach has shown promising results in reducing tumor burden in aggressive breast cancer models, offering new hope for cancer treatment.
How blood sugar levels affect risks in type 1 diabetes
A new study published in BMJ found that blood glucose levels between 48-52mmol/mol do not provide additional protection against organ damage, whereas levels below 48 do not offer further reduced risk. Patients with low HbA1c values need to monitor for excessively low glucose levels and fluctuations.
MUSC's Patrick Woster joins Medicinal Chemistry Hall of Fame
Patrick M. Woster, Ph.D., has been inducted into the Medicinal Chemistry Hall of Fame for his significant contributions to the field, including the discovery of novel therapeutics such as antimalarial and antibacterial agents. His work also emphasizes the crucial role of medicinal chemists in the drug discovery pipeline.
A dual imaging approach may improve diagnosis and monitoring of prostate cancer
A new dual imaging approach combines transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) and photoacoustic imaging to detect anatomical features and molecular information of the prostate. This technology has shown promise in detecting prostate cancers with high accuracy, including distinguishing malignant regions in patients with advanced disease.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateAug 28, 2019
Floods are impacted by a changing climate
A large international research project found that climate change is impacting the severity of flood events across Europe. Floods are increasing in central and north-western Europe due to rising precipitation and soil humidity, while decreasing in southern Europe where warmer temperatures lead to increased evaporation.
Estimate of cigarette consumption in England
A study comparing survey and sales data found that estimated total cigarette consumption in England fell by almost one-quarter between 2011 and 2018. The decline is equivalent to approximately 1.4 billion cigarettes per year, highlighting the need for continued tobacco control efforts.
Nuclear winter would threaten nearly everyone on Earth
A Rutgers-led study confirms extreme impacts from US vs. Russia nuclear war, predicting a global temperature drop of over 15 degrees Fahrenheit and a 90% reduction in growing seasons.
Grassland biodiversity is blowing in the wind
Researchers discovered that spillover, especially of wind-dispersed plant species, promotes biodiversity in restored grasslands. This is crucial for recovering endangered temperate grasslands.
A PoEM on breast cancer metastasis
A new study identifies PoEMs as promoting breast cancer metastasis through the loosening of lymph vessel connections. Removing these cells reduces the ability of breast cancer cells to spread. The findings suggest targeting PoEMs in cancer therapy, specifically targeting cancer-associated lymphatic vessels.
Could marriage stave off dementia?
A new study found that married people are less likely to develop dementia as they age, whereas divorced individuals are twice as likely to experience the condition. The research analyzed data from over 15,000 respondents and suggests that marital status is an important social risk factor for dementia.
More than a billion fewer cigarettes smoked each year as people ditch the cigs
Research funded by Cancer Research UK found that average monthly cigarette consumption fell by 24.4% based on survey data and 24.1% based on sales data between 2011 and 2018. The decline suggests that stricter tobacco laws and quitting smoking initiatives are working, with current smoking rates at 16% of English adults.
Youth: Transgender people should use bathroom they're most comfortable in
A new study reveals that young people aged 14-24 overwhelmingly support the right of transgender individuals to use the bathroom they feel most comfortable in. Contrary to current policies in many schools, youth respondents believe bathroom use is a personal and private decision, and a matter of equality, freedom, and human rights. Thi...
Gout 'more than doubles' risk of kidney failure, according to UL led research study
A new study published in BMJ Open found that patients with gout are at increased risk of chronic kidney disease and kidney failure. The largest-ever study on the subject used data from over 620,000 patients in the UK health system and found a 29% higher risk of advanced CKD compared to those without gout.
Autism rates increasing fastest among black, Hispanic youth
Research from the University of Colorado Boulder found autism rates increasing by double digits among racial minorities, with black rates exceeding those of whites in most states. Hispanic rates grew faster than any other group, while prevalence among white youth is ticking up again after a plateau in the mid-2000s.
SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateAug 28, 2019
NASA finds heavy rain potential in tropical storm Dorian
Tropical Storm Dorian is expected to produce heavy rainfall, with accumulations ranging from 1-10 inches. NASA's Aqua satellite analyzed cloud top temperatures to indicate strong storms capable of creating life-threatening flash floods.
Music-based biofeedback shows promise in improving deadlift technique
A music-based biofeedback system has shown promise in improving deadlift technique, achieving similar results to instructor feedback. The study found that recreational weightlifters who received real-time audio feedback improved their technique and reported increased clarity and enjoyment.
Smarter experiments for faster materials discovery
Researchers developed an AI-powered decision-making system to streamline experiments, reducing measurement time and improving data quality. The algorithm selects the most uncertain step to measure next, maximizing information gain and ending experiments when additional measurements are unnecessary.
Clues to early social structures may be found in ancient extraordinary graves
A study on a 9,000-year-old grave in southern Jordan provides new insights into emerging leadership in early farming communities. The authors propose that the presence of exotic items and proximity to other graves suggest a person who achieved individual prestige through trade networks while maintaining close status within the community.
Ecopipam reduces stuttering symptoms in proof-of-concept trial
A proof-of-concept trial found ecopipam significantly reduced stuttering symptoms, including increased speech fluency and faster reading completion. The medication was well-tolerated, with no serious adverse effects or signals of weight gain or abnormal movement disorders.
Animal ethics and animal behavioral science -- bridging the gap
An interdisciplinary group of scholars urges animal behavior scientists to engage in growing ethical conversation, highlighting broader impacts on moral standing and conservation. Greater integration between animal ethics and behavior communities may benefit ethical theory and practice.
Europe warming faster than expected due to climate change
A new study finds Europe's summers are becoming hotter and winters colder, with extreme heat days tripling since 1950. This accelerates the region's warming, impacting cities unprepared for rising temperatures.
UTA awarded more than $2 million in CPRIT grants
The University of Texas at Arlington has been awarded over $2 million in Cancer Prevention & Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) grants to support its thriving cancer research initiatives. Dr. Piya Ghose received a $2 million grant for her work on programmed cell death, while Dr. Yaowu Hao received $200,000 to investigate radioactive n...
Exposing how pancreatic cancer does its dirty work
A new study reveals pancreatic cancer cells invade and destroy nearby blood vessels, replacing them with tumor-lined structures. The process is driven by the interaction between the protein receptor ALK7 and the protein Activin, pointing to a possible target for future treatments.
SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 28, 2019