Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2020 - Page 239


Page 239 of 512

Scientists present pre- and postfusion cryo-em structures of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein

The researchers report two new cryo-EM structures representing the pre- and postfusion conformations of the full-length SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. The findings suggest that current vaccine strategies may be relying on limited information about the natural state of the protein, highlighting the need for further evaluation.

Researchers ID new target in drive to improve immunotherapy for cancer

Researchers at UCLA have identified a potential new combination therapy to treat advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma by targeting BMI1 proteins. The study found that using an anti-PD1 immunotherapy drug in combination with PTC209 successfully stopped cancer growth, prevented reoccurrences, and eliminated cancer stem cells.

Physicists find ways to control gamma radiation

Researchers have created an optical switch that can direct high-frequency gamma radiation by switching the acoustic field. This effect demonstrates controlled transparency of a resonant medium for gamma radiation, which may be useful for controlling generated radiation in modern synchrotron sources and X-ray lasers.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 21, 2020

Living with a problem gambler?

Researchers at Flinders University warn that family members can be the first to detect early signs of a problem gambler. Chronic hypervigilance, relationship conflict, and exhaustion are common consequences for partners and families.

SourceFlinders University·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateJul 21, 2020

Women's burden increases in COVID-19 era

A recent study by Flinders University highlights the escalating gendered burdens faced by women during the pandemic, particularly in frontline healthcare roles and unpaid care work. Women experienced discrimination, eviction threats, and restricted access to essential services under COVID-19 restrictions.

SourceFlinders University·JournalSocial Sciences·DateJul 21, 2020

Skin stem cells shuffle sugars as they age

Researchers at the University of Tsukuba found that epidermal stem cells undergo a change in their complex sugar repertoire with age, which could serve as a biological marker of aging. This 'glycome shift' is characterized by an increase in sialylated complex type N-glycans and a decrease in mannose-type N-glycans.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalAging Cell·DateJul 21, 2020

Better wastewater treatment? It's a wrap

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new strategy, 'wrap, trap and zap,' to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria in wastewater treatment plants. The graphene-wrapped nanospheres kill bacteria by producing reactive oxygen species, degrading antibiotic-resistant genes and minimizing their release into the environment.

SourceRice University·JournalWater Research·DateJul 20, 2020

NIH study shows highly reproducible sex differences in aspects of human brain anatomy

A NIH study found consistent sex-based differences in cortical volume across 2,000 brain scans, which correspond with patterns of sex-chromosome gene expression. These findings suggest that genetic mechanisms, including those on the X and Y sex chromosomes, may influence sex differences in brain anatomy.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2020

A plot twist in pharmaceuticals: Single nanoparticles could pave the way for medicines on demand

Physicists at the University of Bath have accurately measured and characterised a single, twisted nanoparticle using a new method, taking them closer to producing medicines on demand. The discovery could lead to mini-labs that can mix substances in a completely new way, producing pharmaceuticals from minute droplets of active ingredients.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 20, 2020