Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2020 - Page 200


Page 200 of 512

Naturally occurring antibodies against prion proteins found in humans

Scientists have found that a small proportion of individuals possess high levels of antibodies targeting the normal PrP version of the prion protein. These antibodies may be beneficial in targeting pathological aggregates for degradation by phagocytic cells, potentially offering new tools for studying neurodegeneration. The discovery s...

SourceEMBO·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateAug 17, 2020

ASU climate study looks at humans' exposure to extreme temperatures during 21st century

A recent ASU climate study forecasts a substantial rise in human exposure to extreme temperatures in the US during the 21st century. By the end of the century, the annual heat exposure is expected to increase nearly 30-fold, with major metropolitan regions like New York and Los Angeles facing significant changes.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2020

Autism-cholesterol link

Researchers identify a subtype of autism associated with lipid metabolism and brain development, offering potential targets for precision-targeted therapies and earlier diagnosis. The study found notable alterations in cholesterol levels among children with autism and their parents.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 17, 2020

Study hopes to encourage use of new technology to reduce errors in DNA testing

A study by Dr. Jianye Ge and colleagues suggests that millions of DNA testing cases may be incorrectly interpreted due to limited genetic information. The new technology has been shown to substantially reduce the chance of mistakes in kinship relationship testing, which could have serious consequences for individuals and families.

Sleepiness and social contact

A study found that increased sleepiness is tied to decreases in social activity, especially on days off and in the evenings, while more social activity in the afternoon can lead to longer sleep duration. The complex relationship between social activity and subsequent sleepiness suggests that sleepiness may impede voluntary social contact.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2020

Semitransparent photovoltaics

Researchers developed a semitransparent photovoltaic cell with high power conversion efficiency and visible transparency, opening possibilities for power-generating windows and solar energy applications. The study showcases the potential of organic photovoltaics in serving as color-neutral, transparent power sources.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2020

Bacteria's secret weapon revealed

Researchers at Monash University have discovered a previously unknown way bacteria evade immune responses, targeting mitochondria for disarming. The study suggests potential new ways to combat resistant bacterial infections and could lead to new therapeutic possibilities.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateAug 17, 2020

Food safety model may help pandemic management

A food safety model developed by Flinders University researchers can aid in managing pandemic trust through transparent communication and public engagement. The model identifies key strategies to maintain public confidence, including credibility, proactivity, and education, which can be applied to pandemic management.

SourceFlinders University·JournalFrontiers in Public Health·DateAug 17, 2020

Potential drug target revealed to help more children survive a lethal heart defect

A new study has identified a potential therapeutic target, fibronectin (FN1), to improve endocardial function and regenerate cardiac valves, septum, and coronary vessels in children with hypoplastic left heart syndrome. This discovery offers hope for increasing heart chamber size and reducing the need for multiple surgeries.

Research finds daily cranberry intake associated with reduced with reduced H. pylori infection rates

A clinical trial found that consuming 44mg of proanthocyanidins (PACs) per day in cranberry juice resulted in a 20% reduction in H. pylori infection rates in Chinese adults. The study suggests that twice-daily consumption of this specific amount of PACs may be an effective natural management strategy for adults infected with H. pylori.

SourcePollock Communications·JournalJournal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateAug 17, 2020