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Science News Archive June 2019 - Page 19


Page 19 of 41

Uncovering hidden protein structures

Scientists at the University of Konstanz develop a new method to study the interaction between p53 and poly(ADP-ribose) and DNA, providing insights into molecular reactions to cellular stress and cancer development. The research reveals distinct changes in protein structure induced by these interactions.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJun 18, 2019

Wearable device reveals how seals prepare for diving

Researchers used a non-invasive device to investigate blood volume and oxygenation in freely diving harbor seals, finding that they constrict peripheral blood vessels and increase cerebral blood volume before submersion. This suggests that seals have cognitive control over their circulatory systems.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 18, 2019

Immuno-PET precisely diagnoses IBD inflammation without invasive procedures

Researchers developed a new type of nuclear medicine scan that quickly and precisely diagnoses inflammation in IBD using monoclonal antibodies directed against specific innate immune cell markers. The immuno-PET scan has high potential for theranostic diagnosis and precision treatment of IBD and other inflammatory diseases.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateJun 17, 2019

Breakthrough paves way for new Lyme disease treatment

Researchers have discovered a cellular component called peptidoglycan that contributes to Lyme arthritis, a debilitating condition. The presence of peptidoglycan in synovial fluid may explain why some people experience symptoms despite no obvious infection, and could lead to new treatments.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 17, 2019

The evolution of puppy dog eyes

Researchers found that dogs have developed a muscle above the eyes to intensively raise their inner eyebrow, making them appear larger and more infant-like. This movement, known as AU101, triggers a caregiving response in humans, potentially leading to enhanced social interaction.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 17, 2019

Researchers from IKBFU study nanoparticles synthesized by method of electric explosion

Researchers from IKBFU have developed high-quality α-Fe magnetic nanoparticles using an alternative method of electric explosion, which exhibit a high value of magnetization saturation. The obtained nanoparticles show increased chemical stability and biocompatibility, making them suitable for applications in sensing and biomedicine.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalJournal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials·DateJun 17, 2019

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, June 17, 2019

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed an online tool to evaluate the moisture durability of a building's envelope, enabling better-informed decisions for energy efficiency. Additionally, the lab has pioneered a new technique using pressure to manipulate magnetism in thin film materials used in electronic devices.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 17, 2019

3D reconstruction of craniums elucidates the evolution of New World monkeys

The study used CT scans and 3D imaging to analyze cranium fossils of two extinct species, identifying adaptations and relationships with extant platyrrhine species. The results showed that C. bambuiorum is closely related to Ateles, Brachyteles, and Lagothrix, contradicting its initial classification.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateJun 17, 2019

Do video games drive obesity?

A meta-analysis of 20 studies with over 38,000 participants found a small positive correlation between video game playing and body mass in adults, but no link was established for children and teenagers. The study suggests that people who spend more time gaming may also spend less time exercising, contributing to weight gain.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateJun 17, 2019

From function to form

Researchers at Harvard Medical School have developed a new method for determining 3D protein structures from lab-designed DNA sequences. By assessing the effects of genetic mutations on protein functions, they were able to identify functional interactions within DNA sequences and construct 3D structures that closely mimicked those deri...

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 17, 2019

Science snapshots: New nitrides, artificial photosynthesis, and TMDC semiconductors

Researchers have developed a large interactive stability map of ternary nitrides, predicting 244 new stable compounds. Artificial photosynthesis has also been improved by controlling cobalt oxide catalysts. Additionally, atomically thin semiconductors called TMDCs have shown a quantum yield of 100% when treated with an electrical voltage.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 17, 2019

Schizophrenia: Adolescence is the game-changer

Researchers at UNIGE discovered that the development of the hippocampus, responsible for memory and emotions, is severely impacted in adolescence following the onset of psychotic symptoms. The study suggests that a 'second hit' later in development may determine further hippocampal atrophy and psychotic symptom emergence.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJun 17, 2019