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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 398


Page 398 of 512

Disasters can affect cervical cancer screening for years

Cervical cancer screening rates dropped by over 3% in four areas of Miyagi Prefecture after the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, with rates still lower five years later. Long-term monitoring is needed to restore screening rates in affected areas.

SourceTohoku University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 27, 2020

New feathered dinosaur was one of the last surviving raptors

A new feathered dinosaur species, Dineobellator notohesperus, has been discovered in New Mexico, providing insights into the paleo-biodiversity of the American Southwest. The species, a member of the dromaeosaurid group, had feathers, flexible arms and hands, and a unique tail with a stiffened base.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 26, 2020

Insights into the diagnosis and treatment brain cancer in children

Researchers have identified a gene linked to brain cancer in children that can aid in diagnosis and treatment. Elevated levels of the TPR gene were found in 38% of ependymoma cases, and its deletion led to reduced cancer growth and tumor shrinkage when treated with rapamycin.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalAutophagy·DateMar 26, 2020

Neural networks facilitate optimization in the search for new materials

Researchers at MIT used machine learning to streamline the discovery process for new materials, narrowing down 3 million candidates to eight promising options in just five weeks. The neural network was able to predict properties and optimize criteria, improving upon conventional analytical methods.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Central Science·DateMar 26, 2020

Unconstrained genome targeting with CRISPR-Cas9 variants less reliant on PAM

Researchers have developed novel Cas9 variants that eliminate the need for a protospacer adjacent motif (PAM), allowing for genome-wide targeting with unprecedented accuracy. These variants, SpG and SpRY, can correct mutations in previously 'un-editable' regions of the genome, expanding the potential of CRISPR-Cas systems.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 26, 2020

Biophysics -- lifting the lid on beta-barrels

Biophysicists analyzed the mechanical stability of a protein-ligand complex, finding that geometry affects stability and forces required to extract ligand vary by barrel structure. This discovery may improve experimental data analysis and understanding of mechanosensitive proteins.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 26, 2020

A possible treatment for COVID-19 and an approach for developing others

A review article published in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy highlights the potential of remdesivir as a treatment for COVID-19. The antiviral has shown effectiveness against a range of coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, with prophylactic treatment preventing clinical disease and viral replication.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateMar 26, 2020

Making sense of cells

Scientists created a model that represents a cell with two sensors responding to its environment. They tested various questions, including the impact of energy consumption and sensor interactions on cell sensitivity. The study found that these factors are not always crucial for high sensitivity, and noise levels play a significant role.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 26, 2020

Jumping genes help make neurons in a dish

Researchers at KAUST have developed a cellular model of neuronal development that relies on L1 retrotransposons to form dopamine-producing neurons. The study reveals the importance of L1 activation in successful reprogramming of skin cells into neuronal cells.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateMar 26, 2020

How stable is deep ocean circulation in warmer climate?

A Rutgers University study suggests short-term disruptions of deep ocean circulation occurred during past warm interglacial periods, which may happen again due to climate change. The study found century-long disruptions in the North Atlantic Deep Water formation during four warm interglacial periods within the past 450,000 years.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScience·DateMar 26, 2020

Quantum effect triggers unusual material expansion

Scientists have discovered a material that expands dramatically at low temperatures, mimicking water's expansion when frozen. The researchers used x-rays and theoretical descriptions to explain the phenomenon, which is attributed to the Kondo effect and could lead to new alloys for aviation and other applications.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 26, 2020

As the ocean warms, marine species relocate toward the poles

A recent study reveals that marine species are shifting their populations towards the poles in response to ocean warming, with significant implications for global biodiversity and coastal ecosystems. The research found a consistent pattern of species abundance increases at poleward edges and declines at equatorward edges.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 26, 2020

Quantum phenomenon governs organic solar cells

Researchers at Linköping University have discovered a quantum phenomenon that influences the formation of free charges in organic solar cells. Vibronic coherence contributes to photocurrent generation and can be used to increase efficiency.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 26, 2020

New therapeutic strategy against diabetes

Maintaining vitamin D receptor levels in pancreatic cells may protect against diabetes development and counteract cell damage. Researchers found that sustained VDR expression preserves β-cell mass and function, reducing inflammation and hyperglycemia.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalDiabetes·DateMar 26, 2020

Young people's faith doesn't grow in a vacuum

A 10-year longitudinal study found that young people given a religious upbringing at home by both parents have the strongest faith in God. In contrast, those with only one parent or no parental influence experience wavering faith.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalBritish Journal of Religious Education·DateMar 26, 2020

BU MED student awarded prestigious research fellowship

A BU MED student, Thomas Cheng, received a $3,000 award and two-year Journal of Vascular Surgery subscription for studying patient presentation and outcomes for dialysis in immigrant and refugee populations. The goal is to identify areas for improvement in this vulnerable population.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·DateMar 26, 2020

Neanderthals: Pioneers in the use of marine resources

Researchers discovered remains of various marine animals in a Portuguese cave occupied by Neanderthals between 106,000 and 86,000 BCE. This finding suggests that many Neanderthal groups shared similar dietary habits, contradicting the common perception of them as cold-climate hunters.

SourceCNRS·JournalScience·DateMar 26, 2020

UC Davis launches two clinical studies to treat COVID-19

Researchers at UC Davis are conducting two clinical trials to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of remdesivir and sarilumab in treating hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19. The studies aim to identify early signs of clinical benefit while avoiding ineffective therapies in critically ill patients.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·DateMar 26, 2020

Missing link in coronavirus jump from bats to humans could be pangolins, not snakes

Recent studies on the SARS-CoV-2 genome have been contradicted by a new study suggesting pangolins as the missing link in the virus's transmission from bats to humans. The researchers found protein sequences in sick animals' lungs that were 91% identical to the human virus' proteins, supporting the pangolin theory.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateMar 26, 2020

New sediment record reveals instability of North Atlantic deep ocean circulation

A new study reveals frequent disruptions to North Atlantic Deep Water (NADW) stability during warm climate interglacials, contradicting previous notions of relative stability. The high-resolution sediment record suggests that large perturbations in ocean circulation are more easily triggered than previously thought.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 26, 2020

Reducing reliance on nitrogen fertilizers with biological nitrogen fixation

Research by plant pathologist Gary Stacey aims to develop effective inoculation protocols for biological nitrogen fixation in non-leguminous crops. The study found that bacterial colonization leads to significant shifts in plant metabolism, with some metabolites more abundant in inoculated plants.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·DateMar 26, 2020

Wildfire perceptions largely positive after hiking in a burned landscape

A post-fire survey at Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve found that roughly a third of hikers felt energized and awed by the changes they saw. The study suggests people understand and appreciate the role of fire in natural landscapes, but may need education on local ecosystems to fully grasp its impact. Survey participants were highly famili...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalInternational Journal of Wildland Fire·DateMar 26, 2020

Study shows legal marijuana products too strong for pain relief

A study published in PLOS ONE found that more than 90% of legal marijuana products offered in medical dispensaries are stronger than recommended for chronic pain relief. This can lead to increased risk of developing cannabis-use disorders and tolerance, according to the study's lead author.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 26, 2020

Researchers document seasonal migration in deep-sea

Researchers have documented seasonal migrations of deep-sea fish across the seafloor, linking surface-ocean productivity to observed behavioral patterns. This study provides evidence of cycles of movement in deep-sea fish and suggests reasons for their behaviors, potentially mirroring great migrations on land.

SourceNova Southeastern University·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateMar 26, 2020

Paired with super telescopes, model Earths guide hunt for life

Cornell University astronomers created five models representing key points in Earth's evolution to aid the search for exo-Earths. These templates enable the identification of potential biospheres on distant planets with characteristics similar to our own, using powerful telescopes like NASA's James Webb Space Telescope.

SourceCornell University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMar 26, 2020

Designing lightweight glass for efficient cars, wind turbines

A new machine-learning algorithm helps design lightweight glass compositions that are very stiff, suitable for next-gen materials in vehicles and wind turbines. The goal is to reduce weight while maintaining strength, leading to fuel efficiency improvements.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateMar 26, 2020

Flavor research for consumer protection

A new study reveals that flavorings containing benzaldehyde can form benzene when exposed to light, posing a risk to consumer health. The long-term solution lies in protecting these flavorings from light, particularly during production and storage.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalEuropean Food Research and Technology·DateMar 26, 2020

International team discovers new species of flying reptiles

An international team of scientists has discovered three new species of toothed pterosaurs in the Sahara region of Africa, providing a unique window into their evolutionary history. The fossils, found in Morocco's middle Cretaceous Kem Kem beds, reveal that African pterosaurs were similar to those found on other continents.

SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalCretaceous Research·DateMar 26, 2020

Samara Polytech scientist designs wind-powered generator

A researcher at Samara Polytech has designed a wind-powered generator with irregular cross-section conductors that reduces mass and dimensions, increasing efficiency. The design has been patented and implemented in electric machines with integrated electronic units and liquid cooling.

SourceSamara Polytech (Samara State Technical University)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Industry Applications·DateMar 26, 2020

Executive function in women post-menopause

A new study found that assessing adverse childhood experiences and current anxiety and depression symptoms can ease cognitive distress in women after surgical menopause. The research also emphasizes the need to consider psychological state during medical procedures, suggesting that pre-surgical risk-benefit discussions may be beneficial.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateMar 26, 2020

New type of immunotherapy hinders the spread of ovarian cancer

Researchers develop new type of immunotherapy targeting macrophages in omental fat, which appears to reduce ovarian cancer spread and tumour growth. The study shows promise for improving treatment outcomes, but further testing is needed.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMar 26, 2020

Europe's Neanderthals relied on the sea as much as early modern humans

Researchers have discovered evidence of Neanderthals' extensive use of the sea as a food source, similar to modern humans in Africa. The findings suggest that Neanderthals were fisher-hunter-gatherers with a long-term coastal resource use record dating back to around 106-86 kya.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 26, 2020

Global study shows how marine species respond as oceans warm

A global analysis of over 300 marine species spanning more than 100 years shows that mammals, plankton, fish, plants, and seabirds are changing in abundance as oceans warm. Some marine species are benefiting from climate change, while others are declining due to warming temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 26, 2020

Why life can get better as we age -- study

A recent study found that older adults exhibit stronger mindful qualities, such as present-moment attention and non-attachment, which are linked to improved wellbeing. Mindfulness techniques can help build wellbeing at any age, including those developed through app-based programs like Calm and Headspace.

SourceFlinders University·JournalAging & Mental Health·DateMar 26, 2020

Why you should say 'thank you' and not 'sorry' after most service failures

A new study suggests that appreciating consumers' merits and contributions can increase self-esteem, leading to higher overall satisfaction, repatronage intentions, and less complaining. The researchers identify specific situations where the superiority effect of appreciation holds or disappears.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateMar 26, 2020

How to identify factors affecting COVID-19 transmission

Researchers at Stanford University explore viral and environmental characteristics that affect COVID-19 transmission via surfaces, air, and fecal matter. They propose a broader approach to understanding viruses to better predict their behavior in the environment.

SourceStanford University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 26, 2020