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Science News Archive 2020 - Page 410


Page 410 of 512

Passport tagging for express cargo transportation in cells

Researchers at Nagoya City University develop a 10-amino acid sequence that enhances the cellular secretion of recombinant erythropoietin. The 'passport' sequence is recognized by a cargo receptor, allowing for improved production yields of biopharmaceuticals.

SourceNagoya City University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 17, 2020

Bacteria play 'rummy' with genes, UofSC biologist shows

Researchers discovered that bacteria employ a strategy of adding new DNA while shedding unused genes, allowing them to avoid overloading their genomes. This process helps the bacteria outgrow competitors and potentially infect other organisms more easily.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 17, 2020

Rethinking mortality and how we plan for old age

A new IIASA study finds that many Europeans, especially women, underestimate their remaining life expectancy, leading to costly decisions. The researchers used SHARE data from 9 European countries to estimate subjective life expectancies from age 60 to 90 for men and women.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 17, 2020

Susan Mohammed named SIOP Fellow

Dr. Susan Mohammed, a leading researcher on team mental model conceptualization and measurement, has been recognized as an SIOP Fellow for her significant impact on the field of industrial and organizational psychology. Her research on temporal cognition, diversity, and leadership has important implications for I-O psychology practice.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateMar 17, 2020

Independent investigative agency needed to tackle abuse in elite youth sport

A renowned expert urges the establishment of an independent international safeguarding agency to handle athlete disclosures, investigate and process allegations, and support victims of abuse. An international offender database is also needed to prevent 'perpetrator migration' to new sport organisations.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateMar 17, 2020

Acid reflux drugs linked to increased fracture risk in kids

A study published in JPGN found that proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may increase the risk of fractures in pediatric patients. The analysis showed a significantly higher fracture rate in children exposed to PPIs, with a 20% higher probability of fracture compared to non-exposed children.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition·DateMar 17, 2020

Finding the Achilles' heel of cancer cells

Cancer cells rely on different factors for survival when DNA replication is blocked. Researchers found that inhibiting a key protein called Cdc7 selectively kills cancer cells by inactivating their safety mechanism. This discovery provides a new strategy for targeting cancer cells and developing anti-cancer agents.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science·DateMar 17, 2020

Semiconductors can behave like metals and even like superconductors

Researchers at Swansea University have discovered that semiconductor materials can behave like metals and even superconductors when their surface crystals are structured in a specific way. This breakthrough could lead to advances in energy-efficient electronic devices with lossless energy transport.

SourceSwansea University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMar 17, 2020

New understanding of immune modulator interleukin-2 guides drug discovery

Researchers have uncovered the intricate details of interleukin-2's interactions with receptor molecules, providing a blueprint for more targeted therapies. The study shows how IL-2 can act as either a throttle or a brake on the immune response in different contexts.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2020

Kaiser Permanente finds weight loss lasts long after surgery

A large Kaiser Permanente study found that patients who underwent bariatric surgery maintained significantly more weight loss at 5 years compared to those who did not have surgery. Gastric bypass surgery showed better results than sleeve gastrectomy, with fewer participants regaining weight.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateMar 17, 2020

Vitamin D boosts chances of walking after hip fracture

A Rutgers-led study found that vitamin D levels greater than 12 nanograms per milliliter are associated with a higher rate of walking at 30 and 60 days after hip fracture surgery. Vitamin D deficiency is common in elderly patients with hip fractures, often occurring together with malnutrition.

SourceRutgers University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMar 17, 2020

Plant water saving system works like clockwork, it transpires

Researchers discovered that plant circadian clocks play a critical role in water consumption, allowing plants to use resources more efficiently. The study found that altering circadian rhythms can improve water use efficiency without compromising plant growth.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateMar 17, 2020

Pesticide seed coatings are widespread but underreported

The study found that farmers know less about pesticides applied to their seeds than those applied in other ways, due to seed treatments being exempt from labeling requirements. This lack of knowledge can lead to overuse of pesticides, harming the environment and farmers' health. The researchers recommend improved labelling of pesticide...

SourcePenn State·JournalBioScience·DateMar 17, 2020

Compartments without borders

Researchers at Penn State developed a laboratory method to create membraneless compartments within a liquid, allowing them to segregate and concentrate components for important cellular functions. The findings could provide insight into how cells use these compartments to perform different tasks in different locations, with potential a...

SourcePenn State·JournalBiomacromolecules·DateMar 17, 2020

Brian Welle named SIOP Fellow

Brian Welle named a Fellow of SIOP for his rigorous research and applications in improving workplace diversity, inclusion, and performance management. He has made significant contributions to the field through academic publications, research reports, and conference presentations.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateMar 17, 2020

AI-powered shoes unlock the secrets of your sole

Researchers at Stevens Institute of Technology developed an AI-powered smart insole that turns any shoe into a portable gait-analysis laboratory. The technology provides accurate real-time data on stride length, speed, and power, overcoming limitations of existing wearable technologies.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering·DateMar 17, 2020

New coronavirus stable for hours on surfaces

The study found SARS-CoV-2 stable in aerosols for up to three hours and on copper for up to four hours, while also detectable for 24 hours on cardboard and two to three days on plastic and stainless steel. This stability suggests people may acquire the virus through air and after touching contaminated objects.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 17, 2020

Blocking sugar structures on viruses and tumor cells

Researchers at TUM designed an artificial binding protein with a unique chemical composition to bind to biological sugar structures. This protein has superior affinity to natural lectins and can inhibit cell growth, making it a potential therapeutic agent for conditions like cancer and infectious diseases.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalChemBioChem·DateMar 17, 2020

Long-distance fiber link poised to create powerful networks of optical clocks

Researchers in Japan have developed a low-noise fiber link to connect high-precision clocks, enabling the creation of powerful networks for applications like earthquake detection and communication systems. The system uses a cascaded link with ultralow-noise laser repeater stations to minimize noise and stabilize the laser signal.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateMar 17, 2020

Genetic signature may identify mothers at risk for preeclampsia

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have identified a genetic signature combining certain maternal and fetal gene variants that are associated with a higher risk of preeclampsia. This genetic signature could be used to identify women at risk and prepare in advance to manage their condition.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 17, 2020

John A. Weiner named SIOP Fellow

John A. Weiner has been recognized as a leading expert in assessment tools and technology-based assessment solutions for employment and credentialing. His work on validity, fairness, and legal issues has had a significant impact on the field of industrial and organizational psychology.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateMar 17, 2020

Physicists propose new filter for blocking high-pitched sounds

Researchers have designed a system that uses tapered chains of spherical beads to effectively dampen high-frequency noises above human hearing range. The material's potential applications include use in headphones or other barriers to filter out such sounds, which may alleviate symptoms like nausea and headaches.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalGranular Matter·DateMar 17, 2020

Artificial intelligence helps prevent disruptions in fusion devices

An international team of scientists used AI to predict disruptions in fusion reactions, avoiding energy release and damage to facilities. The algorithm was trained on thousands of experiments and successfully forecasted disruptions in real-time.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateMar 17, 2020

Bentham Science announces an important new journal, 'Coronaviruses'

The new journal 'Coronaviruses' will publish original research, letters, reviews, and case reports on all aspects of coronaviruses. It will be essential reading for virologists, epidemiologists, microbiologists, and healthcare workers interested in the latest information about coronaviridae.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCoronaviruses·DateMar 17, 2020

Perovskite solution aging: Scientists find solution

Researchers from the Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology discovered a way to inhibit side reactions in perovskite solutions, leading to improved stability, efficiency, and reproducibility of solar cells. A low-boiling-point stabilizer, triethyl borate, was found to be effective in stopping unwanted reactions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalChem·DateMar 17, 2020

Scientists find sexual dimorphism in cannabinoid 1 receptor expression in mice

Researchers mapped CB1R mRNA expression in male and female mice, revealing distinct patterns in brain regions associated with Parkinson's disease, maternal behaviors, and the estrus cycle. The study provides a foundation for understanding sex differences in physiological and pathological brain functions related to cannabinoids.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalThe Journal of Comparative Neurology·DateMar 17, 2020

Building a better botox

Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital developed a new version of botox B with improved binding to nerves, leading to more effective paralysis, longer-lasting results, and reduced systemic toxicity. The enhanced toxin showed higher therapeutic efficacy and better safety range in a mouse model.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMar 17, 2020

Pediatrician uses her 'trusted voice' to help kids

A pediatrician used her clinical visits to educate families about the importance of completing the census. She aimed to minimize the negative effects of poverty and adversity on children by ensuring accurate data drives funding for critical resources like healthcare, schools, and nutrition programs.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalAcademic Pediatrics·DateMar 17, 2020

Changes in cellular degradation hubs can lead to cancer

Researchers found that increased lysosome numbers lead to hyperactivation of mTOR, stimulating abnormal cell growth. The study identified Rap1 as a regulator of lysosomal network organization and lysosome number, highlighting the central role of lysosomes in cancer progression.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 17, 2020

Shonna D. Waters named SIOP Fellow

Dr. Shonna D. Waters has been named a Fellow of the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP) for her significant impact on the field. She was granted Fellow status by the SIOP Executive Board, recognizing her outstanding contributions to industrial and organizational psychology.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateMar 17, 2020

Elizabeth L. Shoenfelt named SIOP Fellow

Dr. Elizabeth L. Shoenfelt has made significant contributions to master's level I-O education and applied the science of I-O psychology to improve policies and processes in various fields. She is a renowned researcher with numerous publications and awards, including the SIOP Distinguished Teaching Contributions Award.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Organizational Psychology·DateMar 17, 2020

Major advances in our understanding of New World Morning Glories

A new monograph published in PhytoKeys reveals details about the 425 New World species in the largest genus of morning glories, including six new species and nine new subspecies. The study found that most plants originated from two large centers: South America and the Caribbean Islands.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalPhytoKeys·DateMar 17, 2020

Protein controls fat metabolism

Researchers at Max Delbrück Center have identified protein EHD2 as a key regulator of fatty acid uptake in fat cells. The study found that people with normal weight produce more EHD2 than those who are overweight, suggesting a correlation between EHD2 levels and fat metabolism.

SourceMax Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 17, 2020

A nuclear conflict anywhere on Earth would cause global crop crisis, study finds

A new study suggests a nuclear conflict anywhere on Earth would lead to a decade of global cooling and a severe decline in crop production, compromising global food security. The study found that the sudden change in climate would cause significant crop losses, particularly in northern breadbasket regions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 16, 2020

Regional nuclear war a risk for global food security

A limited nuclear war could lead to severe losses in agricultural production and disrupt global trade, causing a food system shock unprecedented in documented history. The study found that major breadbasket regions would cut exports, leaving countries worldwide short of supplies.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 16, 2020

Food systems are fodder for curbing cities' environmental impacts

Researchers at Princeton University have created a framework to understand and compare cities' food systems and their effects on climate change, water use, and land use. The study highlights the impacts of differences in meat consumption between Indian and U.S. cities, as well as differences in food processing.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalJournal of Industrial Ecology·DateMar 16, 2020

Silkworms provide new spin on sticky molecules

Researchers have engineered silkworms to produce different variants of E-selectin, a critical adhesion molecule involved in inflammation, cancer, and disease processes. The study found that the connecting arm of E-selectin is crucial for binding, while longer armed proteins are better at tethering blood stem cells.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMar 16, 2020

Transgender adults holding gender-affirming IDs have better mental health

A new study published in The Lancet Public Health found that having gender-affirming documents improves mental health among transgender adults. The research, conducted by Drexel University researchers, analyzed data from 22,286 adults and found that those with their preferred name and gender on all identification documents were less li...

SourceDrexel University·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateMar 16, 2020

Honesty and self-reporting

A study with 5,794 participants shows that starting veracity statements at the top does not increase honest reporting, contradicting earlier results. The findings challenge assumptions about the impact of statement order on self-reported honesty.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 16, 2020

The Lancet Public Health: Access to identification documents reflecting gender identity may improve trans mental health

A study of over 20,000 American trans adults found that having access to identification documents reflecting their identified gender is associated with reduced psychological distress and lower rates of suicidal thoughts. The authors suggest policy changes to increase access to gender-concordant IDs, including reducing fees and administ...

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Public Health·DateMar 16, 2020

Blinded by the light

A new framework understanding how light and noise pollution impacts wildlife has been developed by worldwide experts in ecology and physiology. Sensory danger zones have been identified as areas where sensory pollutants influence animal activity, posing a threat to imperiled species and urban wildlife.

SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 16, 2020

Tang Dynasty noblewoman buried with her donkeys, for the love of polo

A noblewoman from the Tang Dynasty was buried with her donkeys, indicating she wanted to continue playing her favorite sport, Lvju, after death. Researchers found donkey bones in Cui Shi's tomb, providing the first physical evidence of donkey polo in Imperial China.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalAntiquity·DateMar 16, 2020

A tale of shepherds and helices

A team of scientists has identified a triple-helix structure in calcium acetate hemihydrate, a compound formed on an ancient artwork through corrosion. The structure is similar to that found in collagen proteins and may have potential applications for bioinorganic chemistry.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 16, 2020

Environmental reservoirs and white nose syndrome

Research reveals environmental reservoir dynamics play a crucial role in white nose syndrome's impact on bat populations. High levels of fungal pathogens in the environment lead to earlier, more severe infections and increased mortality in North America, whereas low levels result in delayed, less severe infections across Eurasia.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 16, 2020

Weather records in giant clam shells

Researchers analyzed giant clam shell biogeochemical records from the South China Sea and found pulsed changes matched extreme weather events. The study suggests Tridacna shells could be used to record paleoweather patterns.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 16, 2020