A study examined fertility preservation among transgender adolescents seeking hormonal intervention for gender identity in Australia. The research found a significant number of adolescents considered preserving their reproductive function during hormone therapy.
Research found that nitrogen-rich soil is linked to the decline of less common plant species in European forests, leading to a loss of biodiversity. In contrast, nitrogen-loving species like nettle and blackberry are on the rise.
SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateApr 13, 2020
Assistant Professor Michael Murdoch will create a computational model of human color perception in AR systems, funded by a five-year NSF CAREER grant. The project aims to enhance AR visual quality for fields like education, medicine, and transportation.
A new study suggests that heavier iron isotopes migrate towards lower temperatures and into the mantle, while lighter isotopes remain in the core. This phenomenon could be causing core material to infiltrate the lowermost mantle, enriching it in heavy iron isotopes.
SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Geoscience·DateApr 13, 2020
A team of scientists discovered that genetic alterations in the immune system of pipefishes and seahorses allow them to tolerate paternal genetic information and develop their offspring. The study found that genes involved in female mammalian pregnancy are also activated in male pregnancy, suggesting similar molecular mechanisms.
SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020
Researchers have found that polymers filled with carbon nanotubes could potentially improve how unmanned vehicles dissipate energy. These materials are also less susceptible to corrosion, lightweight, and have higher electrical conductivity than traditional elastomers.
SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalPolymer·DateApr 13, 2020
Annals of Internal Medicine publishes new COVID-19 research, including a review on diagnostic tests and the critical role of community pharmacists in Taiwan's mask distribution system. Researchers also investigate the inflammatory response to COVID-19, identifying specific immune cells in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome.
SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 13, 2020
Ocular scientists provide evidence-based guidance for practitioners and patients on safe use of contact lenses during COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing importance of good hand hygiene, proper lens care, and temporary lens removal when ill. Experts also debunk rumors about glasses/spectacles providing protection against COVID-19.
SourceMcDougall Communications·JournalContact Lens and Anterior Eye·DateApr 13, 2020
People with type 2 diabetes and heart disease may benefit from newer therapies that combine glucose control with cardiovascular benefits. These treatments, such as SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists, have been shown to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events and improve outcomes for patients.
SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateApr 13, 2020
Researchers at the University of Arkansas will expand their current prototype for a touch-based kiosk and interactive website, A House of the Ozarks, using a $250,000 National Endowment for the Humanities grant. The project, Housing the Human and the Sacred, will also include five additional structures designed by Jones.
A promising COVID-19 drug, valinomycin, has been produced in a cell-free system, achieving higher concentrations than previously achieved in cells. This approach enables faster optimization and increased yields, which could be crucial in the fight against the pandemic.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalMetabolic Engineering·DateApr 13, 2020
A new photosensitizer compound created by West Virginia University researchers has the potential to significantly improve the efficiency of solar panels and other technologies. The compound, made from zirconium, can convert light into electrical energy, making it a more sustainable and cost-effective option for renewable energy.
SourceWest Virginia University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateApr 13, 2020
A study of 647 firearm deaths in homes in King County, Washington from 2011-2018 found that personal protection was cited as a reason for owning a firearm. The researchers discovered that firearm deaths were more likely to be suicide, homicide or unintentional rather than self-defense
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateApr 13, 2020
A recent study examined changes in mental health and human services use among children in Allegheny County following a parent's opioid-related overdose death. The study found that the unexpected death led to an increase in these needs, highlighting the potential risks for children following such traumatic events.
A new study from Columbia University reveals that the balance between soil water and energy availability determines whether plant growth is limited by precipitation or temperature. This finding highlights the crucial role of precipitation in supporting plant photosynthesis, particularly during the late growing season.
SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020
Researchers have identified a small essential clock protein, ELF4, that moves in sync with temperature to coordinate rhythms in shoots and roots. The discovery could provide an advantage for optimal root responsiveness to temperature variations, impacting crop productivity in a climate changing world.
SourceCentre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG)·JournalNature Plants·DateApr 13, 2020
Eastern Australian bats harbor diverse KoRV-related viruses, with metagenomic analysis revealing their presence in multiple species. The discovery of a novel retrovirus, Hervey pteropid gammaretrovirus (HPG), suggests that bats can actively reproduce retroviruses.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020
Scientists have found that the unique characteristics of interstellar object 'Oumuamua can be explained by tidal forces felt during close encounters with stars. The study suggests that rocky objects like 'Oumuamua could originate from planetary systems, providing a new perspective on their formation and evolution.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 13, 2020
A recent study found that 42% of zoo animals were infected with the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, posing a conservation risk to certain endangered species. The study suggests that zoos take preventative measures to limit the spread of the parasite.
SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalPreventive Veterinary Medicine·DateApr 13, 2020
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin developed a method to make big data processing more energy efficient using magnetic components. By leveraging lateral inhibition in artificial neurons, they achieved an energy reduction of 20-30 times compared to standard back-propagation algorithms.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNanotechnology·DateApr 13, 2020
A new study by an international team of researchers finds that improving educational attainment leads to a large improvement in population's vulnerability to climate change. However, it also tends to increase emissions driving climate change, suggesting a tradeoff between these goals.
SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Sustainability·DateApr 13, 2020
Inhibiting sphingolipid metabolism in neurons improves neurodegeneration symptoms and increases survival in a mouse model, according to new research. The findings suggest that compromised sphingolipid metabolism in GARP mutations may be a potential cause of neurodegeneration.
SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020
A new study by Michigan State University scientists reveals that plants have genetic systems to host and nurture the right microbiome, promoting healthy growth. Increased microbiome diversity correlates with plant health, while abnormal compositions lead to tissue damage and symptoms similar to human inflammatory bowel disease.
SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 2020
A study using satellite data and in-situ sensor observations found that the end date of plant photosynthesis is constrained by both temperature and water limits. As temperatures decrease, soil water demands increase to support continued vegetation growth, potentially leading to expansions of regions with limited photosynthesis.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020
Researchers describe a possible mechanism linking obesity and breast cancer, proposing that fatty acid binding protein (FABP4) drives tumor growth. Elevated FABP4 levels in obese individuals promote breast cancer development through direct interaction with cancer cells.
SourceUniversity of Louisville·JournalTrends in Molecular Medicine·DateApr 13, 2020
A study by Kevin Schneider and colleagues found that the bacterial strain Xylella fastidiosa subsp. pauca could have significant economic impacts on olive tree cultivation in Greece, Italy, and Spain. Replanting with resistant varieties or removing infected plants can mitigate these losses.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020
A new study from the University of Michigan found that offshore oil and gas platforms in the Gulf of Mexico emit approximately one-half a teragram of methane each year, comparable to large emitting oil and gas basins. The effective loss rate of produced gas is roughly 2.9%, significantly higher than current inventory estimates.
Researchers found rising income inequality in private sectors worldwide except Canada and Hungary. Enacting policies to protect low-skilled workers and limit firm outsourcing may help reduce inequality, according to the study.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020
Researchers at OIST Graduate University have discovered the structure of adhesive pili in Porphyromonas gingivalis, a major bacterial pathogen causing gum disease. The study sheds light on how these pili assemble and provides insights into combating diseases associated with P. gingivalis.
SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateApr 13, 2020
Researchers found that 70% of electronic consultations were appropriate and 81% associated with avoided face-to-face visits. This study suggests that e-consults can improve patient access to specialists and reduce travel costs.
SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 13, 2020
Two studies on foxgloves published by University at Buffalo biologist Zhen Wang investigate the production of cardiac glycosides. The research aims to improve the time-consuming and labor-intensive process of farming foxgloves, which currently takes two years to produce a small amount of the compound digoxin.
SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Chromatography A·DateApr 13, 2020
A new model developed by Arizona State University researcher Adam Lampert suggests that countries should work together to control the spread of harmful species, including diseases like COVID-19. The model indicates that in some cases, a clear division of labor may be necessary, while in others collaboration is more effective.
SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020
A study modeling psilocybin's effects on brain activity reveals the importance of coupling neuronal and neurotransmitter systems at the whole-brain level. The findings support the development of treatments for depression, anxiety, and addiction using this psychedelic drug.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020
A new study has identified a molecular pathway responsible for the progression and spread of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). By blocking the signaling pathway, researchers found that tumors grew and spread more slowly. The findings suggest that patients with low ELF5 protein levels should be given interferon-gamma signaling-block...
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateApr 13, 2020
Researchers at Rice University have found that the size of the space trapping petrochemicals is the primary factor behind puzzling NMR signals, leading to better interpretation of logs in unconventional shale formations. The discovery is crucial for extracting oil and gas safely and economically.
SourceRice University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateApr 13, 2020
Researchers at the University of Queensland have designed a novel tarantula venom mini-protein that can relieve severe pain without addiction. The mini-protein, Huwentoxin-IV, binds to specific pain receptors and has been tested in mouse models with promising results.
SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 13, 2020
Researchers identify celastrol as a potential therapeutic target for treating winter depression, a condition characterized by low mood and social withdrawal. The study uses medaka fish as an animal model to understand the underlying mechanisms of winter depression.
SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020
Researchers found that commercially available baby foods lack dark green vegetable content and flavor, making it difficult for young children to develop a liking for these vegetables. The study suggests that fruit puree dominates the taste and flavor profile of these products.
Researchers from Monash University and The Royal Women's Hospital developed a ventilator splitting method that can be used with standard hospital equipment to address the global ventilator shortage. The study, published in Anaesthesia, found that by modifying air pressure, flow, and volume, two lungs of different compliances can be ven...
A team of international astronomers led by MSU's Elias Aydi found that shocks power most of a nova's brightness, contradicting previous theories. The research uses unprecedented space observations to provide direct evidence for shock-powered optical emission in a nova.
SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 13, 2020
Researchers have identified how a deadly malaria parasite controls its stickiness in red blood cells, evading the immune system. By targeting this mechanism, potentially more effective therapies may be developed to combat the disease.
SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalNature Microbiology·DateApr 13, 2020
Cells in vulnerable entry routes to bacterial infection buffer themselves when immune system detects danger by reorganizing surface cholesterol. This defense mechanism, identified by UTSW researchers, could offer new strategies for fighting infections without antibiotics.
SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNature Microbiology·DateApr 13, 2020
A team of researchers has found that shocks from a nova explosion cause most of its brightness, rather than nuclear burning on the surface of the white dwarf. The study, published in Nature Astronomy, used unprecedented space observations to detect bright gamma-rays and optical data from the star V906 Carinae.
SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 13, 2020
Researchers at George Washington University have developed a silicon-based electro-optical modulator that is smaller in size and faster than existing technology. The new device uses indium tin oxide to achieve gigahertz-fast signal modulation and has the potential to enable next-generation communication networks.
SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalOptica·DateApr 13, 2020
A large-scale study has identified protein network changes that could be developed into treatment targets and fluid biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease. The research found that sets of proteins regulating glucose metabolism are strongly associated with Alzheimer's pathology and cognitive impairment.
SourceNIH/National Institute on Aging·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 13, 2020
Researchers at UCI have successfully designed a novel plate-cell architecture for nanometer-sized carbon structures that are stronger than diamonds. The design has been shown to improve on the average performance of cylindrical beam-based architectures by up to 639% in strength and 522% in rigidity.
SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 13, 2020
Scientists developed a new method to simplify the search for traces of medicines and sports doping drugs in human biological samples. By analyzing the chemical composition of a substance with reduced search space, the method helps detect illicit substances more efficiently.
SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateApr 13, 2020
The Oregon State University-led research program will focus on the effects of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) on human health, including cancer, neurological systems, and developmental disorders. Researchers will work with communities impacted by hazardous waste sites to better understand the risk posed by PAHs.
A new study found substantial variability in Medicare coverage and out-of-pocket costs for feminizing and masculinizing hormone therapies among older transgender individuals. The proportion of Medicare plans offering unrestricted coverage ranged from 5-100%, while out-of-pocket costs varied between $180-$2,176.
SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalLGBT Health·DateApr 13, 2020
Eastern China's air pollution has been a major concern, and new research suggests that future aerosol emission reductions could worsen atmospheric diffusion conditions conducive to extreme haze events. The study found that climate effects induced by aerosol reduction play a leading role in the anticyclone change in eastern China.
SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAtmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters·DateApr 13, 2020
After four Louisville, Kentucky, coal-fired power plants either retired coal or installed stricter emissions controls, local residents' asthma symptoms and related hospitalizations and ED visits dropped dramatically. The study found nearly 400 avoided hospitalizations and ED visits each year across Jefferson County.
SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalNature Energy·DateApr 13, 2020
A trio of satellites, including NASA's Fermi and NuSTAR space telescopes, observed a nova outburst in 2018 and captured direct evidence that most of the explosion's visible light arose from shock waves. The data confirmed that shock waves play a major role in powering some stellar explosions.
SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 13, 2020
A modified form of tubulin traps signaling molecules, reducing brain messaging in people with depression. Tubulin levels may provide a diagnostic marker and target for antidepressant treatment.
Researchers used computer simulations to propose a new formation theory for the mysterious interstellar object 'Oumuamua. The theory suggests that objects like 'Oumuamua can form under the influence of tidal forces, explaining its unusual characteristics such as its dry surface and elongated shape.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 13, 2020
Researchers highlight the importance of trust in fostering international cooperation in cybersecurity and tech infrastructure. Incident response teams from the US and Europe collaborate with Russian counterparts to prevent sabotage and maintain grid security.
SourceCornell University·JournalTechnology and Culture·DateApr 13, 2020
A study by researchers at the University of Washington found that people often misunderstand online status indicators and adjust their behavior accordingly. Over half of participants reported being aware that someone had noticed their status, while over half logged in to check others' statuses.
Researchers developed photodetectors using graphene layers with varying proportions of black phosphorus and arsenic, achieving lower dark currents and high photosensitivity. These sensors can enhance the performance of infrared telescopes and replace existing detectors, benefiting various scientific and technological applications.
SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalOptics Express·DateApr 13, 2020
Researchers analyzed ancient potsherds to find clues about the diet and subsistence practices of ancient East African pastoralists. They discovered that ruminant meat, bones, and marrow were a staple, while milk residues were present at low frequencies.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 13, 2020
A new UCLA study has identified a key gene, reprimo, which regulates body temperature and may contribute to menopause-related weight gain. The research suggests that manipulating this gene could provide a safer alternative to hormone replacement therapy for alleviating symptoms.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Metabolism·DateApr 13, 2020
Scientists at the University of Alberta have shown that remdesivir is highly effective in stopping the replication mechanism of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. The drug works by tricking the virus into incorporating itself as a building block, effectively preventing it from replicating.
SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 13, 2020