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Science News Archive August 2019 - Page 20


Page 20 of 38

Expression of M gene segment of influenza A virus determines host range

A study published in PLOS Pathogens found that the M gene segment of influenza A virus restricts growth and transmission in human hosts. Excess production of the M2 protein resulting from avian-derived M segments interferes with cellular functions, highlighting the critical role of M segment gene expression in host adaptation.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateAug 15, 2019

When human expertise improves the work of machines

Researchers develop a technique called dimensional stacking to improve data analysis for materials scientists. By organizing data based on physical and chemical properties, machines can gain insights into complex materials like ferroelectrics. This approach shows that human experience still has a role in the age of machine intelligence.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateAug 15, 2019

New tools help detect digital domestic abuse

Researchers at Cornell Tech developed a new clinical model to respond systematically to digital threats against victims of intimate partner violence. The model includes a technology assessment questionnaire, technograph diagram, and ISDi spyware scanning tool to help counselors pinpoint online abuse and protect victims' safety.

Major award for 2 Bernese medical projects

Researchers from Bern, Switzerland have been awarded major grants by the US Department of Defense to study new treatments for prostate cancer and develop methods to preserve severed limbs. The projects aim to identify factors driving metastasis and improve survival rates in prostate cancer patients.

More cancer cases among women with sleep apnea

A new study published in the European Respiratory Journal found that women with sleep apnea are at a higher risk of developing cancer. The research, based on registry data from over 20,000 adult patients, shows a possible link between intermittent hypoxia and increased cancer prevalence among women, but not men.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateAug 15, 2019

WPI biologist's discovery gives evolution clues and may affect drug interaction research

A WPI biologist has discovered that a key component in a worm's communication system can be repurposed to take on a different function, providing insights into the workings of evolution. This finding could have significant implications for drug interaction research, agricultural bio-engineering, and our understanding of genetic inherit...

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 15, 2019

Discovery of how cells override genetic changes

Scientists at Huntsman Cancer Institute have discovered a way for cells to override genetic changes, potentially leading to more effective pancreatic cancer treatment. The study found that introducing PTF1A into normal cells prevented the formation of cancer cells and even reversed early-stage cancer cells back to healthy pancreas cells.

SourceHuntsman Cancer Institute·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateAug 15, 2019

Predictive value of resting pd/pa for fractional flow reserve assessed with monorail pressure microcatheter in real-world practice

Resting Pd/Pa showed poor agreement with hyper-emic FFR, but specific thresholds (0.96 or greater for normal FFR and 0.82 or less for abnormal FFR) provided excellent sensitivity and specificity. These findings have implications for real-world practice in assessing coronary artery disease.

SourceCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·JournalCardiovascular Innovations and Applications·DateAug 15, 2019

New contrast agent could make MRIs safer

Researchers at MGH develop a new, possibly safer contrast agent for MRI exams using a manganese-based compound that provides comparable tumor contrast enhancement to state-of-the-art gadolinium-based agents. The new agent is designed to be more quickly and thoroughly cleared from the body, reducing concerns about long-term safety.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalInvestigative Radiology·DateAug 15, 2019

Best of both worlds: Asteroids and massive mergers

University of Arizona researchers are using the Catalina Sky Survey's near-Earth object telescopes to find optical counterparts to gravitational waves triggered by massive mergers. The team found several supernovae and a near-Earth object during their ongoing campaign, which began in April.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateAug 15, 2019

Care less with helmet

Researchers found that wearing a bike helmet decreases the 'Frontal Midline Theta Power' in brain activity, indicating reduced cognitive control during risk decision-making. This suggests that wearing a helmet can influence behavior through subtle suggestions on a subconscious level.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalPsychophysiology·DateAug 15, 2019