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Science News for December 1, 2020


Environmental exposures affect therapeutic drugs

Researchers from the University of Vienna used high-resolution mass spectrometry to analyze environmental toxin interactions with therapeutics. The study found that exposure to substances like BPA and genistein can alter drug efficacy, leading to reduced effectiveness in cancer treatment and other conditions.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalTrends in Pharmacological Sciences·DateDec 1, 2020

New childhood dementia insight

Researchers have discovered a potential window to the brain in Sanfilippo syndrome, a rare and untreatable form of childhood-onset dementia. The study uses retinal imaging techniques to monitor disease progression and therapeutic efficacy, providing new hope for patients.

Seismic activity of New Zealand's alpine fault more complex than suspected

Research suggests that some parts of the Alpine Fault, particularly around Hokitika and Greymouth, may experience strong ground shaking more often than previously thought. The study found evidence of a 19th-century earthquake along the fault's northeastern end, indicating that smaller earthquakes could occur between large rupture events.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateDec 1, 2020

Octogenarian snapper found in WA becomes oldest tropical reef fish by two decades

An 81-year-old midnight snapper caught off the coast of Western Australia has become the oldest recorded tropical reef fish, surpassing the previous record by two decades. The study found that long-lived fish are generally considered vulnerable to fishing pressure, highlighting the need for sustainable management of commercial fisheries.

Statins can save lives, are they being used?

A recent study found that only about 60% of patients with coronary artery disease, stroke, or peripheral artery disease receive the recommended statin therapy. Despite a decrease in drug cost, disparities persist in statin use among different age groups, genders, and racial backgrounds.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 1, 2020

Next step in simulating the universe

A new simulation approach accurately depicts the role of elusive particles called neutrinos in the evolution of the universe. The results show that neutrinos suppress dark matter clustering and are correlated with massive galaxy clusters.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateDec 1, 2020

AI-based 'OxyGAN' is a robust, effective method to measure tissue oxygen levels

Researchers have developed an AI-based algorithm called OxyGAN to accurately measure tissue oxygenation from single snapshots. This approach uses a conditional generative adversarial network to learn realistic output images and determine correct reconstructions for given input data, demonstrating robustness in measuring oxygen levels.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateDec 1, 2020

Out of many COVID-19 tests, which one to choose?

Researchers recommend using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction assays as the gold standard for testing, but acknowledge limitations due to false negatives. Point-of-care testing is emphasized as an urgent objective to detect the virus rapidly and early, with nano-based sensor technologies showing promise.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Bioengineering·DateDec 1, 2020

Study identifies novel mechanisms that cause protein clumping in brain diseases

A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that liquid-liquid phase separation facilitates tau protein aggregation, a hallmark of neurodegenerative disorders. The researchers discovered a novel regulatory mechanism involving different variants of tau protein, which may influence disease clinical outcomes.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 1, 2020

SMART researchers develop customised targeting of bacteria using lysins

Researchers at Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART) have developed a method to produce customisable engineered lysins that can selectively kill specific bacteria while leaving others unharmed. This discovery presents a promising alternative to antibiotics for treating existing drug-resistant bacteria.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateDec 1, 2020

Watch immune cells dig tunnels in tissues

Researchers found that cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) dig slow-moving channels through the extracellular matrix to facilitate fast movement of other CTLs. The study suggests modulating ECM properties could enhance immune response efficiency and lead to new therapeutic strategies in cancer treatment.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateDec 1, 2020

A semiconductor chip detects antigen concentrations at 1 parts per quadrillion molar mass

A semiconductor chip has been developed to detect antigen concentrations as low as 1 part per quadrillion molar mass, enabling ultra-sensitive detection on a portable scale. This technology uses organic nanosheets and can detect biomolecules in real-time, paving the way for quick disease diagnosis and telemedicine applications.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateDec 1, 2020

Tunable rainbow light trapping in ultrathin resonator arrays

Researchers develop novel design and fabrication techniques for rainbow light trapping, enabling extreme light confinement and versatile application in low concentration molecular sensing, enhanced photocatalysis, and super-resolution optics. The technique uses analytical modeling to optimize groove geometry for broadband electromagnet...

Tanning beds and sunbathing may be associated with an increased risk of endometriosis

A new study published in the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology found that tanning bed use and sunburns may increase a woman's chances of developing endometriosis. The research analyzed data from over 116,000 women and found a higher risk among those who used tanning beds frequently or got sunburnt during teenage years.

Glucosamine may reduce overall death rates as effectively as regular exercise

A new epidemiological study from West Virginia University found that glucosamine supplements reduced all-cause mortality by 39% and cardiovascular-related deaths by 65%. The researchers analyzed data from 16,686 adults and suggest that people should continue exercising while considering the potential benefits of taking glucosamine pills.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateDec 1, 2020

Curtin collision models impact the future of energy

A new database of electron-molecule reactions has been created by Curtin University researchers, allowing for accurate modeling of plasmas containing molecular hydrogen. This development is crucial for the global push to develop fusion technology for electricity production on Earth.

SourceCurtin University·JournalAtomic Data and Nuclear Data Tables·DateDec 1, 2020

Why people become defensive and how to address it

Research at Flinders University found that defensiveness increases when people feel stigmatised or rejected, but decreases when they feel valued and included. The study suggests that emphasizing respect and value for the person, even if you disagree with their views or actions, can reduce defensiveness.

SourceFlinders University·JournalBritish Journal of Social Psychology·DateDec 1, 2020

LSU Health New Orleans discovers drug development target for retinal dystrophies

Researchers found that deleting FATP4 increases cone photoreceptor survival and visual function nearly 10-fold in mouse models of Leber congenital amaurosis. This discovery establishes FATP4 as a promising therapeutic target to preserve daytime color vision in patients with RPE65 gene mutations.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 1, 2020

Skoltech scientists run a 'speed test' to boost production of carbon nanotubes

Researchers at Skoltech have discovered a way to increase the productivity of carbon nanotube synthesis by adjusting catalyst injection rates, leading to a 9-fold increase in yield while preserving key properties. This breakthrough has the potential to pave the way for cheaper and more accessible nanotube-based technology.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateDec 1, 2020

How thyroid function affects stress-related heart problems

A multicentre study found a strong correlation between thyroid function and Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, a condition triggered by extreme emotional stress. The research identified two distinct mechanisms: an overactive thyroid gland promoting heart disease risk and an elevated target value of thyroid regulation related to the stress event.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of Internal Medicine·DateDec 1, 2020

Cancer cases are rising in adolescents and young adults

Researchers analyzed data from nearly half a million cancer patients in the US between 15-39 years old to determine cancer cases in this age group. The results show a 30% rise in cancer diagnoses among adolescents and young adults, with kidney, thyroid, and gastrointestinal cancers increasing at the greatest rates.

SourcePenn State·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateDec 1, 2020

Trees can help slow climate change, but at a cost

A new study suggests that widespread forest management and protections against deforestation can help mitigate climate change, but will come with a steep cost. The research found that planting and protecting trees could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by as much as 6 gigatons a year, but would cost $393 billion annually.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 1, 2020

Plants on aspirin

A new study published in Cell Reports found that painkillers such as Aspirin and Ibuprofen interfere with the auxin flow in plants, leading to abnormal root growth. The drugs also suppress the movement and trafficking of substances within plant cells, impairing their ability to develop properly.

Nonlinear ionization dynamics of hot dense plasma observed in a laser-plasma amplifier

Researchers have directly observed the formation and interaction of highly ionized krypton plasma using femtosecond coherent ultraviolet light and a novel four-dimensional model. The study reveals strongly nonlinear behavior in laser-plasma interaction, allowing for the creation of well-defined plasma conditions.

How automated vehicles can impede driver performance, and what to do about it

A University of Toronto study found that drivers can become over-reliant on automated vehicle displays, leading to decreased monitoring of the road. In contrast, an in-vehicle display system providing information on surrounding traffic showed promise in ensuring driving safety by keeping drivers engaged and attentive.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalAccident Analysis & Prevention·DateDec 1, 2020

Study sheds light on immune mechanism that triggers cytokine storm typical of COVID-19

Researchers found that inflammasomes, a type of immune cell complex, are activated in response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, leading to excessive inflammation and potentially life-threatening complications. The study provides new insights into the disease's progression and suggests potential therapeutic targets.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateDec 1, 2020

AI predicts which drug combinations kill cancer cells

A machine learning model developed in Finland can identify best cancer drug combinations to selectively kill specific cancer cells with unique genetic or functional profiles. The AI model accurately predicts how different drug combinations inhibit particular cancer cells, paving the way for more effective cancer treatments.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 1, 2020

Hydrogen-powered heavy duty vehicles could contribute significantly to achieving climate goals

A transition to hydrogen-powered mobility in Germany's heavy duty vehicle segment could achieve a deep reduction in emissions, with potential of -57 MtCO2eq annually. Green hydrogen offers competitive advantages over battery electric vehicles, particularly for heavy loads and longer driving ranges.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateDec 1, 2020

AI reduces computational time required to study fate of molecules exposed to light

Scientists from the University of Groningen developed a machine learning-based algorithm, PySurf, which reduces electronic structure calculations significantly. The software requires several orders of magnitude less computational time than existing direct dynamics software and is available as an open-source free download.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalJournal of Chemical Theory and Computation·DateDec 1, 2020