Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive February 2020 - Page 30


Page 30 of 40

Brain-wave pattern can identify people likely to respond to antidepressant, study finds

Researchers at Stanford Medicine have developed a brain-wave signature that can predict which individuals with depression are most likely to respond to sertraline, an antidepressant. The study used electroencephalography and AI to identify the pattern in participants before treatment, allowing clinicians to make informed decisions abou...

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 10, 2020

Supercharged light pulverises asteroids, study finds

According to a University of Warwick astronomer, the majority of stars in the universe will become luminous enough to blast surrounding asteroids into successively smaller fragments. This process will be triggered by the YORP effect, which creates an imbalance that spins up orbiting asteroids until they break apart.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateFeb 10, 2020

But what about flow? The effect of hydrodynamics on liquid-liquid transitions

A team of researchers from The University of Tokyo Institute of Industrial Science has expanded our understanding of liquid behavior by describing the role of hydrodynamics in these transitions. They found that changes in density lead to hydrodynamic fluctuations, affecting domain growth and long-range interactions.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 10, 2020

The many lives of charcoal

African charcoal production supports nomadic lifestyles, while its large-scale use contributes to deforestation. Despite efforts to regulate, charcoal remains a significant source of energy worldwide, with millions of metric tons produced annually.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalResources·DateFeb 10, 2020

Summary report on small cell lung cancer research points to progress and challenges

Recent advances in immunotherapy are starting to show hope for small cell lung cancer patients, but current treatments have limited durability and many patients don't respond. Researchers call for further exploration of underlying disease mechanisms and development of predictive biomarkers to advance the field.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateFeb 10, 2020

Palliative vs. standard care for Parkinson's disease

A randomized clinical trial found that outpatient palliative care was associated with better patient and caregiver outcomes for patients with Parkinson disease. The study included 210 patients and 175 caregivers and examined the effects of palliative care on quality of life, mood, and sleep.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateFeb 10, 2020

'Rule breaking' plants may be climate change survivors

Research found that plantains, a small plant native to Europe, have become one of the world's most successfully distributed species by adapting in unconventional ways. The study revealed that multiple introductions into new environments led to high genetic diversity and adaptability, making invasive plants more successful.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 2020

Biodiversity yields financial returns

An interdisciplinary study found that biodiversity increases yield and revenue in semi-natural grasslands. The researchers discovered that maintaining higher levels of plant diversity leads to improved forage quality and increased income from milk sales, comparable to the difference between extensively and intensively farmed land.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 2020

Light burns with new acids

Researchers at NAIST developed a new photo-acid generator that produces Lewis acids with a significantly higher quantum yield than existing Brønsted acids. This breakthrough enables the activation of previously inaccessible biological and photo-polymer systems, opening up new opportunities for organic synthesis.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 7, 2020

Scientists resurrect mammoth's broken genes

Researchers resurrected Wrangel Island mammoth's mutated genes to test their functionality. They found the genes did not function normally, suggesting the last mammoths were genetically unhealthy and unable to smell, providing a cautionary tale for endangered species.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·DateFeb 7, 2020

Understanding gut microbiota, one cell at a time

A novel technique called SAG-gel allows for the simultaneous analysis of multiple draft genomes from raw data, identifying bacteria that respond to dietary fiber without reference genomes. The study reveals specific gene clusters and metabolic pathways involved in breaking down inulin.

SourceWaseda University·JournalMicrobiome·DateFeb 7, 2020

Bacterial influencers -- rhizosphere microbiome mediates root metabolite exudation

Researchers discovered that the rhizosphere microbiota can shape and control root exudation through a systemic root-to-root signalling mechanism. This process, termed Systemically Induced Root Exudation of Metabolites (SIREM), triggers the secretion of acylsugars in the whole root system.

SourceLeibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 7, 2020

Using neutrons and X-rays to analyze the aging of lithium batteries

A team of researchers investigated electrode surfaces during charging and discharging using X-ray and neutron tomography methods. They found deformations, discontinuities, and areas with low electrolyte levels that affect battery performance. The analysis allows for the development of strategies to improve lithium battery design.

Invisible X-rays turn blue

Researchers at Nara Institute of Science and Technology developed a new reaction system that detects X-rays at the highest sensitivity ever recorded using organic molecules. The system can detect even the faintest X-ray levels considered dangerous, making it safer for workers exposed to radiation.

SourceNara Institute of Science and Technology·JournalChemical Science·DateFeb 7, 2020

Russian scientists propose a technology reducing the cost of high-efficiency solar cells

Researchers from ITMO University have proposed a technology for manufacturing high-efficiency solar cells based on A3B5 semiconductors integrated on a silicon substrate, which may increase the efficiency of existing photovoltaic converters by 1.5 times. The new technology could lead to more effective and affordable solar energy solutions.

SourceITMO University·JournalSolar Energy Materials and Solar Cells·DateFeb 7, 2020