Babies mimic songs, study finds
A study found that a 15-month-old boy attempted to sing along to 'Happy Birthday' after hearing it played on a toy. The research suggests that babies learn music patterns and rhythms through spontaneous imitation.
Science News Archive February 2020 - Page 23
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The demise of tropical snakes, an 'invisible' outcome of biodiversity loss
A new study finds that biodiversity loss is causing a smaller, less diverse snake community in the tropics. The decline of tropical snakes is an 'invisible' outcome of biodiversity loss and has upward effects on higher-order predators.
Effectiveness of travel bans -- readily used during infectious disease outbreaks -- mostly unknown, study finds
A University of Washington and Johns Hopkins University study examines travel bans to control infectious diseases like COVID-19. The research suggests that while a travel ban may delay the arrival of an illness, it does not eliminate long-term risk. The authors emphasize the need for more research to inform policy decisions.
New study: Chronic kidney disease a 'global killer in plain sight'
A new study reveals chronic kidney disease is a leading cause of death globally, resulting in an estimated 1.23 million deaths in 2017. The disease's impact varies widely across countries, with some nations experiencing rates nearly 15 times higher than others.
Unilateral terms of service change may put health-tech consumer welfare at risk
Health tech companies handling sensitive user data may make unilateral changes to their policies without notifying users. This lack of transparency can lead to unwanted use or distribution of personal data, highlighting the need for stronger consumer protections.
Oceans: particle fragmentation plays a major role in carbon sequestration
Researchers found that 35% of organic particles sink to depths due to fragmentation, regulating the oceans' capacity to sequester CO2. The discovery helps explain what happens to half of the particle flux that sinks to depths, previously unknown.
Artificial intelligence finds disease-related genes
A new study uses artificial intelligence to identify groups of disease-related genes from huge amounts of gene expression data. The researchers found that the AI model discovered relevant patterns that agree well with biological mechanisms in the body, suggesting potential applications in precision medicine and individualized treatment.
'Rosetta stone' for urban scaling makes sense of how cities change across time and space
Researchers have created a 'Rosetta stone' for urban scaling, mapping out common ground between cross-sectional and temporal approaches to study city growth. The framework reveals new insights about a city's behavior, including superlinear growth in socioeconomic properties.
Researchers validate link between genetic variant and poor outcomes in advanced prostate cancer
Researchers found a genetic variant associated with aggressive disease and shorter survival in men with metastatic prostate cancer. Genetic testing for the HSD3B1(1245C) variant may help identify patients most likely to benefit from additional treatment.
New, detailed molecular roadmap boosts fight against endometrial cancer
A new study provides an unprecedented look at the molecular steps of endometrial cancer, offering insights into tumor aggressiveness and patient responses to treatment. The research also suggests potential new roles for already-approved drugs targeting proteins like CDK12, SMARCA4, and PML in other types of cancer.
Simple N-terminal modification of proteins
Researchers at Osaka University have reported a straightforward approach to protein modification by targeting the N-terminus, providing a new tool for protein engineering. The method uses a single-step reaction to conjugate functional molecules to proteins, resulting in highly efficient site-specific labeling under mild conditions.
Autophagy degrades liquid droplets, but not aggregates, of proteins
Researchers discovered autophagy's selective degradation of protein liquid droplets but poor performance with aggregated proteins. This study used yeast and a test tube system to reconstitute the Ape1 isolation process, revealing the role of Atg8 and receptor proteins.
Urgent improvements needed in the care of children with suspected appendicitis -- study
A new study found that thousands of UK children undergo unnecessary appendix surgery each year, with a high rate of misdiagnosis. Researchers propose routine risk scoring and improved ultrasound services to reduce unnecessary surgery and save the NHS £4.4 million per year.
Most quality metrics for kidney disease fall short
A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital researchers found that more than half of existing kidney disease quality metrics are of middle or low quality, which hampers efforts to improve patient care. The team advocates for shifting focus to metrics that matter most to patients and accurately reflect kidney health or disease progression.
SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 13, 2020
Fake news makes disease outbreaks worse, research shows
Researchers found that misinformation during epidemics of infectious disease could make those outbreaks more severe. Strategies to fight fake news, such as 'immunizing' people against bad information through better education, showed promise in reducing the impact of bad advice on disease outcomes.
BU Study: State alcohol laws focus on drunk driving; they could do much more
A new BU School of Public Health study scores states on alcohol policy, finding even Utah has room for improvement. The research found that laws to reduce excessive drinking also have an independent effect on reducing impaired driving.
SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateFeb 13, 2020
Stress in small children separated from their parents may alter genes
Children separated from their parents for extended periods may experience long-term genetic changes due to elevated cortisol levels. The study highlights the importance of parental care on a child's genes and behavior.
Taming hormones with food: physician resolves infertility, diabetes, & other conditions
Dr. Neal Barnard shares how common conditions like infertility, weight gain, and menopausal symptoms are fueled by hormone imbalances linked to food choices. He offers practical tips and recipes to balance hormones and improve overall health.
How early life trauma can contribute to functional neurological disorder
Research at Massachusetts General Hospital examines brains of individuals with early-life trauma and functional neurological disorder, finding correlations between childhood abuse severity and altered brain connectivity. The study's findings may provide new insights into the plastic brain mechanisms underlying FND.
Forests bouncing back from beetles, but elk and deer slowing recovery
New research found that high-elevation forests in Colorado's southern Rocky Mountains have a good chance of recovery after overlapping bark beetle outbreaks. However, foraging elk and deer are slowing the process by browsing smaller trees and stunting their growth.
Novel biotechnological route developed to obtain fine chemicals from agricultural waste
A novel simplified biotechnological route has been developed to convert sugarcane bagasse and wheat straw into fine chemicals. The new process uses a cascade of three catalytic enzymes to release ferulic acid from lignocellulosic biomass and convert it directly into coniferol, resulting in high conversion yields.
E-cigarette use among teens may be higher than previously thought, study finds
A Rutgers-led study found that high school students reported higher e-cigarette use when Juul was included in the measure, particularly among female and black students. The study suggests health officials might be underestimating teen e-cigarette use prevalence.
New gene mutation associated with Fabry cardiomyopathy
A new gene mutation, A143T variant of GLA gene, is associated with an increased risk of Fabry cardiomyopathy. Patients carrying the mutation should initiate treatment to prevent disease progression.
Texas Heart Institute and UCLA reveal innovative pacing system in Scientific Reports
Researchers developed a wirelessly powered, leadless pacemaker that can synchronize both sides of the heart, reducing complications associated with traditional pacemakers. The device has shown impressive clinical outcomes measures and is being further miniaturized for implantable use.
Scholarly journals work together to disseminate knowledge in ob-gyn
A recent Rutgers-led study tracked ob-gyn article citation rates, finding substantial differences between articles published in non-specialty and specialty journals. Top-cited ob-gyn articles from non-specialty journals showed higher levels of evidence, broader appeal, and more frequent citations.
Protecting pipelines during land movements
Researchers at UTS have developed a method to protect pipelines using polymer blocks, improving safety and reliability in Australia's pipeline network. The proposed solution can save lives and reduce environmental disasters due to content leakage.
UConn biomedical engineer creates 'smart' bandages to heal chronic wounds
A 'smart' bandage developed by UConn engineers can precisely deliver different medications to chronic wounds, promoting healing and reducing morbidity. The wirelessly-controlled bandage is equipped with miniature needles that can penetrate deeper layers of the wound bed with minimal pain and inflammation.
Autophagy genes act as tumor suppressors in ovarian cancer
Researchers at MUSC and UCSD found that autophagy genes work against tumors in certain types of ovarian cancer. The study validated the role of BECN1 and LC3B as tumor suppressors, shedding light on their potential as targets for treatment.
California agricultural employers, workers approach smoke concerns differently
A new study from UC Davis finds significant disparities between employers' and employees' approaches to wildfire smoke concerns. Many farmworkers prioritize work over safety, while some employers lack clear plans or protocols for managing air quality.
Cigarette prices have risen following standardised packaging, despite warnings
Standardised packaging in the UK led to higher cigarette prices despite warnings from the tobacco industry. The study found that prices increased due to the introduction of a minimum excise tax (MET) that forced companies to pay at least £5.88 per pack, reducing their ability to manipulate prices.
How a tiny and strange marine animal produces unlimited eggs and sperm over its lifetime
Researchers studied Hydractinia's unique ability to produce germ cells nonstop throughout its life. The study found that the gene Tfap2 controls perpetual germ cell production in this animal, a process similar to humans but with distinct differences. This discovery could provide clues to human reproductive disorders.
Caribbean sharks in need of large marine protected areas
A group of marine scientists, including Stony Brook University's Oliver Shipley, is calling on governments to establish larger spatial protections for sharks in the Greater Caribbean. The region boasts high marine biodiversity and contains many migratory shark species, but has been overlooked in conservation efforts.
Farmers to tackle locust swarms armed with new app
A new smartphone app, MAESTRO*, can recognize locusts and grasshopper pests through camera images and record GPS locations. The app aims to enable targeted pesticide delivery to prevent swarms from spreading and devastating crops. Researchers gathered over 3,500 locust images to train the system.
Fragile topology: Two new studies explain the strange electron flow in future materials
Two new studies from Princeton researchers and their collaborators chart a course for restoring conductivity in fragile topology materials. The studies provide a theoretical explanation for the phenomenon, revealing that conducting surface states can reappear under specific conditions.
UIC researchers find unique organ-specific signature profiles for blood vessel cells
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have identified distinct genetic profiles for endothelial cells in various organs, including heart, brain, and lungs. These findings suggest that targeting specific blood vessels could lead to more effective treatments for vascular diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease.
New potential cause of Minamata mercury poisoning identified
A new study by the University of Saskatchewan has found that the likely culprit of the Minamata poisoning is alpha-mercuri-acetaldehyde, a mercury waste product not previously identified. This organic mercury species was discharged directly from the Chisso Corporation's chemical factory and contaminated Minamata Bay.
Hydropower dams cool rivers in the Mekong River basin, satellites show
Researchers found that within a year of a dam's opening, downstream river temperatures dropped by up to 3.6 degrees F, persisting where the rivers meet the Mekong River. The cooling effect is driven by dams releasing cold water from reservoirs during dry season.
I spy with my digital eye ... a tiger's breathing, a lion's pulse
A pilot study by the University of South Australia has successfully recorded heart and breathing signals from nine species of Adelaide Zoo's animals using high-resolution digital cameras. The technique allows for remote monitoring of wild animals, potentially leading to earlier detection of illness and reduced vet visits.
Research pinpoints rogue cells at root of autoimmune disease
A team of researchers at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research has identified individual cells that cause autoimmune disease from patient samples. They discovered how these cells 'go rogue' by evading checkpoints and accumulating genetic mutations that drive disease progression.
Studying electrons, bridging two realms of physics: connecting solids and soft matter
Researchers investigate electron behavior in disordered materials, finding a connection to soft matter particles. The study reveals the Griffiths phase, an electronic analog, in Mott-transition systems, bridging condensed matter and soft matter physics.
Stinging water mystery solved: Jellyfish can sting swimmers, prey with 'mucus grenades'
Researchers have identified microscopic structures called cassiosomes in the mucus of upside-down jellyfish, which release a toxin-filled substance into the water. The discovery resolves the mystery of 'stinging water' and provides insight into the feeding strategy of these animals.
Polymers to the rescue! Saving cells from damaging ice
Researchers have designed efficient polymers to prevent ice growth and damage cells during cryo-storage. The study identifies key factors controlling the binding of flexible polymers to ice, paving the way for de novo design of more potent inhibitors.
Pitt study uncovers new electronic state of matter
The study reveals a new electronic state of matter where electrons form bunches of two, three, four and five electrons behaving like new types of particles. Researchers recognized a sequence within Pascal's Triangle that helped them understand the discovery, which features properties related to quantum entanglement.
Tourists pose continued risks for disease transmission to endangered mountain gorillas
A recent study by Ohio University researchers found that nearly 70% of tourist-gorilla spacing observations took place within 7 meters, posing a risk of disease transmission. The study urges tourists to maintain safe distances and encourages park officials to implement measures to protect gorilla health.
Molecular switch mechanism explains how mutations shorten biological clocks
Researchers found a molecular switch mechanism that regulates biological clocks, explaining how mutations can shorten clock timing. This discovery may enable the development of therapies to alleviate disruptions caused by clock dysregulation.
Face-to-face contact with police builds trust in fledgling states
Researchers found that personal contact between police officers and citizens encourages a positive attitude towards the country's central authority. The study suggests building relationships may help a new government earn legitimacy in the eyes of citizens, potentially preventing violence in the future.
Study reveals improved survival after kidney transplantation during childhood
Survival rates have improved significantly for children who received kidney transplants, with a 72% lower mortality risk among those transplanted later than earlier periods. This improvement is primarily attributed to reduced deaths from cardiovascular causes and infections.
SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateFeb 13, 2020
Clinical trial examines subconcussive head impacts from soccer
A randomized clinical trial evaluated subconcussive head impacts in soccer players, finding those who received heading shots performed worse on eye movement tests compared to a control group. The study suggests that such impacts may cause short-term effects on neuro-eye function.
Reasons why megaprojects fail
A systematic literature review by academics at UCL found that no single factor causes megaproject failures, but rather a combination of six key themes. The study identified 54 preventative solutions to improve megaproject performance, including designing system architecture and engaging institutions and communities.
Electric solid propellant -- can it take the heat?
High-performance electric propellants have a higher enthalpy due to internal energy storage, which affects efficiency. The study predicts the material's conductivity and ionization at extreme temperatures.
SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalJournal of Thermophysics and Heat Transfer·DateFeb 13, 2020
Shaping waveforms
Scientists at the University of Freiburg have developed a method to control electronic dynamics in real time by shaping attosecond pulses. This breakthrough allows for the study of molecular or crystal responses and has potential applications in optimizing processes like photosynthesis and charge separation.
Can beauty be-er ignored?
A study published in Psychology of Addictive Behaviors found that intoxication reduces the distraction caused by attractive faces, allowing intoxicated individuals to focus equally on both attractive and unattractive faces. The researchers used a computer-based task to assess participants' attention while ignoring facial stimuli.
Computer-based weather forecast: New algorithm outperforms mainframe computer systems
Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz have developed an algorithm that can solve complex problems with remarkable facility on a personal computer. The SPA algorithm enables accurate weather forecasts with a prediction error of only 0.75 degrees Celsius, surpassing the performance of supercomputers.
Genetic profile may predict type 2 diabetes risk among women with gestational diabetes
Research suggests a genetic profile may predict the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in women who have had gestational diabetes. A study analyzing data from 2,434 women found that those with a larger proportion of certain gene variants were at higher risk.
SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalBMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care·DateFeb 13, 2020
'Quit vaping searches increased during lung-disease outbreak
A study found that Google Trends shows a significant increase in searches for 'quit vaping' during the EVALI outbreak, with a 3.7-fold rise, highlighting the need for public health messaging and clinical screening of patients who vape.
10+ lifetime sexual partners linked to heightened cancer risk
A study published in BMJ Sexual & Reproductive Health found that having 10 or more lifetime sexual partners is associated with a heightened risk of cancer diagnosis in both men and women. Women who reported this number were 91% more likely to be diagnosed, while those with limiting chronic conditions were 64% more likely. The study sug...
Understanding how a protein wreaks havoc in the brain in Parkinson's disease
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin have discovered that the overactive LRRK2 enzyme wreaks havoc on motor and cognitive abilities in Parkinson's disease. The team has simulated the activity of the enzyme in the laboratory, visualizing its effects on protein complexes and paving the way for new treatments.
From petroleum to wood in the chemical industry: cost-efficient and more sustainable
An interdisciplinary team from KU Leuven has mapped out the technological and economic viability of replacing petroleum with wood in the chemical industry. The research suggests that a biorefinery using wood can produce chemicals with lower CO2 emissions, making it a more sustainable alternative.
NASA finds wind shear affecting tropical cyclone Uesi
Wind shear, a measure of changing winds with altitude, affects Tropical Cyclone Uesi's rotation and strength. The NASA Aqua satellite revealed this impact, showing clouds being pushed to the southeast of the center of circulation.
New Brazilian study describes neural inflammatory processes in lab-developed human cells
A new study by Brazilian researchers sheds light on astrogliosis, a common inflammatory process in brain tissue linked to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Human astrocytes created in the lab were found to exhibit impaired function and morphological changes after exposure to an inflammatory protein.