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Science News Archive December 2020 - Page 38


Page 38 of 39

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.