Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for February 5, 2020


High-precision imaging revealed what holds on the smallest light responsive gold chain

Chemists at the University of Jyväskylä Finland and University of California succeeded in determining the atomic precise structure of a chain of gold nanoclusters. The study reveals the disulfide-bridging bond between the bound nanoclusters, advancing our understanding of the optical and electronic response of these systems.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateFeb 5, 2020

Roll up

Researchers successfully grow crystals of various materials onto the surface of carbon nanotubes, paving the way for unique properties in 1D vdWs. This breakthrough enables potential applications in flexible electronics, lasers, solar energy conversion, and more.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience·DateFeb 5, 2020

Breaking up amino acids with radiation

Researchers break down amino acid glutamine when bombarded with different doses of electrons. This process has implications for understanding the effect of ionising radiation on human cells and improving cancer radiotherapy.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateFeb 5, 2020

Paternal involvement might improve health of mom, infant

A study by Northwestern Medicine and CDC found that unmarried mothers with paternal involvement are more likely to breastfeed and engage in protective health behaviors. This is compared to married mothers who also experience benefits from their partner's presence, suggesting a positive impact of fatherhood on maternal health.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPublic Health Reports·DateFeb 5, 2020

Targeting the cancer microenvironment

A new biochemical switch involved in M2 macrophage polarization and proliferation has been identified, which can be targeted to inhibit cancer growth. The discovery was made by a research team from the University of Vienna and could lead to novel therapies against systemic diseases and cancer.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 5, 2020

New droplet-based electricity generator: A drop of water generates 140V power, lighting up 100 LED bulbs

A research team has developed a droplet-based electricity generator that can produce 140V power from a single drop of water. The device features a field-effect transistor-like structure and achieves high energy-conversion efficiency and instantaneous power density, making it an innovative solution for sustainable energy generation.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature·DateFeb 5, 2020

Fastest high-precision 3D printer

Scientists at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have developed a system to print highly precise, centimeter-sized objects with submicrometer details at an unmatched speed. The new 3D printer produces speeds of about 10 million voxels per second, corresponding to the speed reached by graphical 2D inkjet printers.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateFeb 5, 2020

New understanding of childhood immune systems may improve vaccine efficacy

A new study by Swiss TPH and partners found that age, location, and anaemia status significantly impact childhood immune system development. The research suggests that considering these factors can improve the efficacy of childhood vaccinations, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where anaemia is prevalent.

SourceSwiss Tropical and Public Health Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 5, 2020

Medical marijuana laws may affect workers' compensation claims

New research shows that US states with medical marijuana laws have seen a decline in workers' compensation claims due to improved symptom management. The modest reductions suggest expanded access to medical marijuana may also boost work capacity and reduce reliance on social insurance programs.

SourceWiley·JournalHealth Economics·DateFeb 5, 2020

Can ionic liquids transform chemistry?

Researchers are exploring the use of ionic liquids as a more sustainable and efficient way to produce industrial materials like fibers and fuels. The unique properties of these molten salts make them an attractive alternative to traditional solvents, with potential applications in chemical synthesis, biomass refining, and energy storage.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 5, 2020

The shape of water: What water molecules look like on the surface of materials

Researchers used persistent homology and molecular dynamics simulations to study water molecules on graphene surfaces. They found that water molecules form stable polygonal shapes, which evolve into 3D tetrahedral structures after three layers are added. This discovery provides insights into the transition between surface and free water.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJapanese Journal of Applied Physics·DateFeb 5, 2020

What's your brand?

Researchers at the University of Tokyo developed an algorithm that combines statistical modeling techniques with machine learning-based image recognition to analyze social media data. The algorithm predicts consumer purchases and allows brands to identify potential customers.

Social media content matters for job candidates, researchers find

Researchers found that hiring managers perceive candidates with self-absorbed or overly opinionated social media profiles as less suitable for employment. The study also discovered that content suggesting drug or alcohol use has a smaller impact on perceptions of employment suitability.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Selection and Assessment·DateFeb 5, 2020

Unveiling how lymph nodes regulate immune response

Scientists uncover how lymph nodes' development is controlled by the Hippo pathway, shedding light on their role in regulating immune responses. The research found that impaired Hippo signaling can lead to fibrosis or transformation of fat cells, highlighting potential therapeutic targets for diseases affecting systemic immunity.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 5, 2020

Finding genetic cancer risks

Researchers identified germline mutations in the MBD4 gene as a driver of somatic mutations in cancer genomes, accelerating the clock-like mutational process. This discovery has significant implications for understanding cancer development and may lead to personalized screening and early intervention strategies.

Do elevated mercury levels in the blood increase skin cancer risk?

A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that higher mercury levels in the blood are associated with an increased prevalence of non-melanoma skin cancer. Participants with high total or methyl mercury levels had nearly double or 1.7 times greater odds of non-melanoma skin cancer, respectively.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·DateFeb 5, 2020

Fecal excretion of PFAS by pets

Researchers measured PFAS in cat and dog feces, detecting 13 compounds with longer-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids being most abundant. Estimated exposure levels for pets and potentially their owners were found to be above minimal risk levels.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateFeb 5, 2020

A new substance prevents vascular calcification

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a new substance that inhibits the growth of calcium phosphate crystals, preventing vascular calcification. The molecule is structurally related to IP6 and has been shown to be stable and effective in vitro and in disease models.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 5, 2020

Bending diamond at the nanoscale

A team of Australian scientists has discovered that diamond can be bent and deformed at the nanoscale, creating possibilities for the design and engineering of new nanoscale devices. The discovery opens up a range of possibilities for applications in sensing, defence and energy storage.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateFeb 5, 2020

Certain meditation strategies may help perfectionists

A study using high frequency heart rate variability found that mindfulness meditation sessions incorporating nonjudgment led to better recovery in perfectionists. Nonjudgment element improved mental health outcomes compared to general mindfulness sessions.

SourceWiley·JournalPsychophysiology·DateFeb 5, 2020

Researcher's technology differentiates between Parkinson's disease and multiple system atrophy

Researchers have developed a technology that can distinguish between Parkinson's disease and multiple system atrophy with high accuracy. The Protein Misfolding Cyclic Amplification (PMCA) test targets misfolded alpha-synuclein aggregates, allowing doctors to identify the correct disease and pursue timely treatment.

Putting a finger on plant stress response

A zinc finger domain in Arabidopsis protein SIZ1 is essential for transcriptional regulation of genes required for abiotic stress responses, including cold, salt, and drought stresses. The domain's absence leads to impaired SIZ1 function, stunted plant growth, and increased sensitivity to stressful conditions.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalCommunications Biology·DateFeb 5, 2020

Not all in-home drinking water filters completely remove toxic PFAS

A new Duke University study found that many household filters are only partially effective at removing toxic perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from drinking water. Activated-carbon filters removed an average of 73% of PFAS contaminants, while reverse osmosis filters and two-stage filters achieved near-complete removal.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateFeb 5, 2020

Why males pack a powerful punch

Research from the University of Utah suggests that males' upper bodies are specialized for punching, with an average power difference of 162% compared to females. This specialization may have evolved due to generations of interpersonal male-male aggression, shaping structures in human bodies to favor success in fighting.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateFeb 5, 2020

Energy choices can be contagious -- but why?

Research shows that personal energy choices can be contagious, influenced by social norms, observation, word-of-mouth communication, and trusted community leaders. The study identifies factors that affect the impact of peer influence, including individual characteristics, relationship strength, learning processes, and behavior complexity.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalNature Energy·DateFeb 5, 2020

Global cooling after nuclear war would harm ocean life

A study published in Geophysical Research Letters suggests that global cooling following a nuclear war would worsen the impact of ocean acidification on marine life. The cooling would dissolve atmospheric carbon into the upper ocean, increasing acidity levels and challenging shell maintenance for organisms like corals, clams, and oysters.

SourceRutgers University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateFeb 5, 2020

Choosing common pain relievers: It's complicated

Researchers reviewed benefits and risks of over-the-counter and prescription pain relievers, including NSAIDs, aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and acetaminophen. The study suggests that healthcare providers and patients should make individual clinical judgements based on the entire risk factor profile to minimize harm.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalJournal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology and Therapeutics·DateFeb 5, 2020

Less advertising for high-calorie snacks on children's TV

A study by the University of Bonn found that commercials aimed at children decreased in Germany after EU-level voluntary commitment was put in place. However, companies exploited loopholes and the initiative showed partial success. The researchers also highlighted the need for stricter guidelines to regulate food advertising.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalFood Policy·DateFeb 5, 2020

Examining patterns after shift to reference pricing for drugs

An economic evaluation of 3.3 million drug insurance claims found that implementing reference pricing was associated with physicians and patients adopting the least expensive alternative within a drug class. The study suggests that this policy change may have a positive impact on healthcare costs and access to essential medications.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 5, 2020

Treating obesity benefits children's mental health

Treating childhood obesity is associated with improved psychological outcomes, including enhanced self-esteem and body image. Losing weight appears to be less crucial for improving self-esteem, but still important for bettering body image.

SourceWiley·JournalPediatric Obesity·DateFeb 5, 2020

The benefits of physical activity for older adults

Physically active older adults experience reduced risks of early death, breast and prostate cancer, fractures, and dementia. Physical activity also promotes healthier ageing trajectories, better quality of life, and improved cognitive functioning.

SourceWiley·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·DateFeb 5, 2020

Study provides new understanding of mitochondria genome with potential for new avenues of treatment for multiple cancers

Researchers at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center have made significant progress in understanding the mitochondrial genome and its role in cancer. The study found that hyper-mutated cases in kidney, colorectal, and thyroid cancers suggest oncogenic impact with signaling pathway activation.

Dementia may reduce likelihood of a 'good death' for patients with cancer

A recent study published in Geriatrics & Gerontology International found that cancer patients with dementia were less likely to achieve a good death compared to those without. The study's authors emphasize the importance of enhancing end-of-life care discussions and improving symptom management for these patients.

SourceWiley·JournalGeriatrics and Gerontology International·DateFeb 5, 2020

Parkinson's and the immune system

Researchers have identified a link between the nervous system and immune system in Parkinson's disease, finding that genes like Parkin and PACRG protect nerve cells from cell death. These proteins regulate a signalling pathway that also plays a role in innate immunity, which prevents bacterial infections.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalScience Signaling·DateFeb 5, 2020

CD19 CAR NK-cell therapy achieves 73% response rate in patients with leukemia and lymphoma

The CD19 CAR NK-cell therapy achieved a 73% response rate in patients with relapsed or refractory non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), with no major toxicities reported. The treatment was administered in an outpatient setting, and responses were evident within one month following infusion.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 5, 2020

The invisibility cloak of a fungus

A fungal pathogen, Cryptococcus neoformans, has been found to use an enzyme called chitosan deacetylase to alter its cell wall structure, making it invisible to the human immune system. Researchers have identified a new chitosan deacetylase that is crucial for the fungus's ability to evade detection.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2020

Does tramadol increase hip fracture risk?

A UK patient database analysis found tramadol increases hip fracture risk by up to 1.5 new cases per 1000 person-years, compared to other pain medications. The study highlights the need for tramadol's fracture risk to be considered in clinical practice and treatment guidelines.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateFeb 5, 2020