Researchers have developed mosquitoes that can halt the transmission of the dengue virus, targeting four known types of the disease. The engineered mosquitoes use a human antibody to hinder virus replication and prevent transmission to humans.
Researchers from Tongji University and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University developed a compact broadband acoustic absorber using imperfect components with low absorption peaks. By modulating the coherent coupling effect, they achieved quasi-perfect absorption across a broad frequency range (870 - 3224 Hz) with an average coefficient o...
A recent case analysis published in JACEP Open reveals that vaping emergencies can be challenging to diagnose due to initial symptoms that resemble pneumonia. The study highlights the importance of accurate diagnoses, which typically involve ruling out other infections and conditions.
The team created a cucurbituril-based host-guest complex that polymerized into a linear chain and then associated into a hollow microtubule via van der Waals interactions. This breakthrough mimics the formation mechanism of natural microtubules, essential for cellular functions.
A new CU Boulder-led study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that judges deny minors' abortion requests with impunity, potentially due to personal political biases. The study analyzed data from Texas over 18 years and found that judges denied cases by up to 13%.
A research team has found that Cyanobacteria produce relevant amounts of methane in oceans, inland waters, and on land. This discovery refutes the traditional assumption that methane generation occurs only under anoxic conditions by microbes of the domain Archaea.
A large study of infant physical activity levels suggests that less active infants may accumulate more fat, which could predispose them to obesity later in life. Higher physical activity was associated with lower central adiposity, a measure of lower-torso fat accumulation.
Research published in the American Heart Association's journal found that hookah smoke causes blood clots to form within an average of 11 seconds, compared to 5 minutes without exposure. Hookah smoking increases the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Researchers developed a novel machine learning procedure that resolved Paleozoic biodiversity to within 26,000 years, clarifying diversification and extinction events. The improved resolution revealed new aspects of Paleozoic biodiversity and showed a correlation between atmospheric carbon dioxide levels and paleobiodiversity change.
Researchers at EPFL have achieved a record-breaking photoelectrochemical water-splitting efficiency of 4.5% using cuprous oxide (Cu2O) photocathodes with copper thiocyanate (CuSCN) as a transparent and effective hole transport layer, showing improved performance and overcoming limitations such as high cost and electron-hole recombination.
Scientists discovered two bursts of new genes that drove the evolution of land plants, contradicting previous gradualistic views. These genetic innovations enabled plant multicellularity and adaptation to terrestrial environments.
A new immunocapture protein phosphatase inhibition assay (IC-PPIA) method has been developed to detect microcystins and nodularin in human urine, yielding positive results from three out of 86 urine specimens. The study provides a critical step in developing clinical diagnostic tests for harmful algal bloom exposure worldwide.
Detained adolescents experience high rates of mental health disorders, substance use disorders, and neurodevelopment disabilities. A whole-of-system approach is needed to address health and social inequalities in childhood and adolescence.
Researchers successfully tracked brain activity of zebrafish larvae to predict decisions, revealing a major role for the cerebellum in cognitive functions. The study used light field microscopy to track neuronal activity and identified specific patterns that predicted correct or incorrect turns.
Researchers argue for mobile marine protected areas in international waters to protect highly mobile species affected by climate change. New technologies, such as satellite tracking, enable dynamic management strategies that adjust to species' movements and habitats shifts.
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago report that hospital visits associated with homelessness have tripled since 2011. Their findings show that annual conservative estimates of homelessness using hospital-based data have exceeded HUD estimates since 2016.
A new study by University of Kentucky researchers suggests that banning menthol-flavored tobacco products could help address disparities in public health. The study found that policies restricting flavored tobacco products but not menthol flavors disproportionately affect African American communities.
A research team at Dartmouth's Norris Cotton Cancer Center has identified VISTA as a molecule that regulates immunity and limits the damage it can cause. Blocking VISTA may enhance the host's ability to make protective tumor-specific immune responses, leading to potential therapeutic response to cancer.
Scientists have engineered mosquitoes that can't spread all four types of the dengue virus, a major breakthrough in controlling the disease. This development has the potential to limit human suffering and mortality from dengue, which affects over 390 million people annually.
A study published in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery found that virtual physical therapy after knee replacement surgery is safe and effective, with similar outcomes to traditional in-person PT. Virtual PT also resulted in lower healthcare costs, with patients completing more exercises and having fewer hospital readmissions.
A specialized Lung Rescue Team at Massachusetts General Hospital has significantly reduced mortality rates in patients with obesity and acute respiratory failure compared to standard treatment. By individualized treatment, the team has cut the risk of death by half for up to a year.
A new study found that firearm injury survivors experience higher rates of chronic pain, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and poor physical health compared to motor vehicle crash survivors. The study highlights the need for continued care and follow-up services after discharge.
Researchers at ICFO have developed a novel photodetector technology using PbS Colloidal Quantum Dots (CQDs) that can detect light in the long infrared range. The new material platform is made with mercury-free material, enabling lower energy detection and broader spectral coverage.
Two new studies uncover the secrets behind birds' precise flight control, paving the way for more agile robotic wings. Researchers found that finger motion initiates stable turn maneuvers and 'directional Velcro' mechanisms lock feathers together during wing extension.
Crop residues serve as a key microbial ecosystem, contributing to both crop health and disease susceptibility. The microbiomes of crop residues may play a crucial role in innovative disease management strategies.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have discovered a high prevalence of Bartonella bacteria in hemangiosarcoma tumors and non-tumor tissues from dogs. The study confirms the link between persistent infection and some types of cancer, highlighting Bartonella's ability to remain undetected within tissue.
Research from Lund University found that clusters of B cells in melanoma tumors, called tertiary lymphoid structures, are linked to improved prognosis and response to immunotherapy. This study confirms the role of B-cells in the immune response against cancer cells.
A study by Stockholm University found that women in supervisory positions experience increased rates of sexual harassment, with the greatest exposure at lower levels of leadership. The research also showed that harassment is more common when subordinates consist of mostly men.
A UC San Francisco-led research team has discovered the first conclusive evidence that natural selection may also occur at the level of the epigenome for tens of millions of years. The study found a particular epigenetic mark on the DNA sequence of Cryptococcus neoformans, which should have disappeared during the age of the dinosaurs.
Researchers found that changes in RNA splicing and protein Lark affect the production of messenger RNA, crucial for fighting gut infections. Genetic variants also modulate gene expression levels in response to infection.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a wearable gas sensor that detects gases, biomolecules, and chemicals using nanomaterials. The device's self-heating mechanism improves sensitivity and allows for quick recovery and reuse.
Researchers observe wolf puppies retrieving balls and responding to social cues from unfamiliar humans in a surprising display of cognitive abilities. This finding suggests that ancestral variation may have contributed to human-directed play behavior in dogs.
Tropical Cyclone Claudia was dissipating in the Southern Indian Ocean when NASA's Terra satellite captured its final image. The storm's maximum sustained winds had decreased to 35 knots, and strong northeasterly wind shear had pushed clouds away from its center.
Complex systems, like social networks and avalanches, exhibit similar characteristics when left to develop on their own. In a groundbreaking experiment, researchers from the University of Cologne observed self-organized criticality in a gas of potassium atoms, demonstrating universal avalanche behavior.
Researchers identified common attributes of cybercrime networks, revealing how they function and work together. These networks are composed of hackers coming together due to shared functional skills, often collaborating to cause greater disruption.
Researchers have developed a method to create Braille math textbooks using an authoring system and enhancements to standard methods. The new process enables mass production of affordable Braille textbooks, making mathematics more accessible to visually impaired students.
A new study uses an eye movement test to investigate inhibitory control in healthy older adults, confirming a decline in this ability with age. The results show that older participants were more likely to look at the dot when it appeared and slower compared to younger participants.
Researchers found that only 0.12% of climate research funding went to social science research, while natural sciences received 770% more funding. Experts recommend increasing funding for social science research, improving transparency, and prioritizing key questions.
Researchers found that dragonflies and damselflies share key neurons in their neural system, indicating a common ancestor. The two insects have distinct hunting strategies, but similar neurons are responsible for processing visual information, informing technological advancements.
Researchers aim to create AI agents that understand social cues and human interactions to help teams achieve goals. The ToMCAT project will develop AI agents that gather information about individual players through sensors and eventually suggest interventions via plain-text chat messages.
Physicists observe entanglement among trillions of flowing electrons in a rare quantum phase transition, revealing new insights into quantum criticality. The study sheds light on the behavior of exotic materials and their potential applications in computing and communications.
Researchers found that cells from children with NGLY1 deficiency lack sufficient water channel proteins called aquaporins, leading to inability to produce tears and other wide-ranging symptoms. The discovery opens new avenues for finding therapies to treat the disorder.
A new species of prehistoric scorpion, Parioscorpio venator, is discovered with characteristics similar to present-day scorpions and horseshoe crabs. The fossils suggest that scorpions may have adapted to life on land earlier than previously thought, possibly using similar pathways as modern horseshoe crabs.
Researchers developed a nondestructive optical technique to determine cement setting times and assess hydration processes in real-time. The method combines laser-based technology with an optical model to calculate dynamic behavior, providing accurate calculations for initial and final setting times.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed an edible 'security tag' to protect prescription drugs from counterfeiting. The tag uses a digital fingerprint and can be scanned by a smartphone app to verify authenticity.
A recent study found that standard radiation treatment costs for prostate cancer vary greatly between hospitals, with some centers not listing prices at all. The lack of common terminology and unbundled cost reporting hinders the value of price transparency in helping patients estimate and compare care costs.
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center discovered that the insular cortex plays a crucial role in assessing and predicting physiological states. The study's findings provide potential new avenues for addressing diseases such as eating disorders, obesity, and drug addiction by targeting the brain's reward system.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center identified a new mechanism by which clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) tumors grow and spread. Inhibiting the enzyme TBK1, which becomes more active in these cancer cells, shows promise as a potential strategy for treating kidney cancer.
A recent study contradicts a 2019 finding that linked the Netflix series '13 Reasons Why' to an increase in adolescent suicide rates among boys. After controlling for secular trends, the reanalysis found no effect from the show's release on boys or girls.
A new study suggests that eating walnuts daily can increase certain beneficial gut bacteria, which may contribute to improved heart health. The research found that walnuts enriched a number of gut bacteria associated with health benefits, including Roseburia and Eubacteria eligens.
A new microscopy technique, cryo-SR/EM, combines images from electron microscopes and super-resolution light microscopes to reveal the intricate 3D structure of cells. This allows researchers to study the relationships between cellular structures and their surroundings with unprecedented clarity.
New study finds low doses of ionizing radiation used in medical imaging create breaks that allow extra bits of DNA to integrate into the chromosome, potentially leading to mutations. The researchers stress that translating these findings to animal models is necessary to determine full effects and impact on patient health.
Researchers at Southeast University have developed a novel kind of microtort with stable structural color for multiplex assays. These micromotors can efficiently accelerate mixing speed and increase probe-target interactions, leading to faster and more sensitive detection. The unique structural color coding allows for simultaneous mult...
Researchers found that cell-to-cell contacts are essential for human cells to survive protein-damaging conditions and stress. Impaired cell adhesion may make cancer cells more vulnerable to drug treatment.
The new book, Competing for Control: Gangs and the Social Order of Prisons, reveals that prison gangs are in a period of transition, varying in organization and structure. The study found that prison violence is concentrated among gang populations and that gang membership does not protect inmates from victimization.
UK scientists have discovered a potential new treatment strategy for pancreatic cancer by targeting energy production in cells, leading to an irreversible build-up of calcium and cell death. The approach involves inhibiting a specific enzyme called PKM2, which fuels calcium pumps on the cell surface.
UC San Diego researchers identified αvβ5 integrin as the key contributor to Zika virus' ability to infect brain cells. Blocking this integrin with antibodies or small molecule inhibitors effectively prevents Zika virus from infecting both normal brain stem cells and cancer stem cells.
A systematic review found that albendazole (ALB) and praziquantel (PZQ) are effective in treating taeniasis caused by the pork tapeworm. The study analyzed 20 studies, including before-after designs and controlled trials, and reported cure rates ranging from 52% to 99.5%.
A recent study found that community-dwellers with Alzheimer's disease who used antipsychotics had a 29% higher risk of head injuries and a 22% higher risk of traumatic brain injuries. The risk was highest when antipsychotics were first introduced.
A 16-year study of Hong Kong's population found that death rates from all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease, and cancer decreased significantly in older adults with diabetes. In contrast, younger adults with diabetes experienced little to no change in their death rates over the same period. The researchers suggest that targeted p...
Researchers discovered that restoring BMP4 activity blocks distant metastasis in multiple organs, including the lung and bone. High levels of BMP4 are associated with better patient outcomes.
The Society for Pediatric Research welcomes 130 new members, including renowned researchers, who will contribute to child health endeavors. The SPR's initiatives include a research and presentation forum, award programs, and career development support.
A new study published in The Lancet reveals sepsis is responsible for an estimated 48.9 million global cases and 11 million deaths in 2017, representing a doubling of previous estimates.
Researchers have discovered a secreted protein signature of aging cells, which is enriched with biomarkers found in human plasma. This breakthrough could lead to the development of therapeutic approaches to treat age-related diseases by targeting senescent cells.
A study of over 4 million Medicaid claims records found that less than a third of adolescents and young adults who survived nonfatal opioid overdoses received timely follow-up addiction treatment. Only 1 in 54 youths received standard-of-care counseling and medications recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Researchers discover that hormone resistant ER+ breast cancers have a 'rewired' 3D structure of DNA, altering gene activation and silencing. This change may explain how cancer cells evade hormone therapy, offering a potential path for reversal using existing drugs.
The MND-SMART trial is a comprehensive clinical study that seeks to find treatments for motor neurone disease (MND), a progressive condition affecting the nervous system. The trial will involve over 1,500 participants and test multiple treatments against a shared placebo group.
Scientists discovered that jumping genes target egg cells with reduced quality for elimination during fetal development, a process called FOA. This mechanism helps maintain the caliber of available egg supply, suggesting potential ways to combat infertility.
Researchers have introduced a gel that is activated by red light to produce reactive oxygen compounds effectively killing bacteria and fungi. The hydrogel combines photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy with fully synthetic properties, overcoming previous biocompatibility issues.
Local activism can change targets when community activists reach their goals, with success galvanizing activists and inspiring further action. Failure, however, does not lead to decreased mobilization, but rather sparks new protests in other industries.
A new study identified Gemin3 as a molecular 'bridge' between genes causing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a neurodegenerative disease. The research holds promise for developing treatments effective for a broad range of ALS patients.
A study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases found that typhoid prevalence is likely higher than estimated due to missed blood cultures, with patients more likely to have cultures if older, feverish or suspected urinary tract infection.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that older adult Medicare beneficiaries with untreated obstructive sleep apnea had greater health care utilization and costs. The researchers suggest routine screening for sleep apnea to better contain treatment costs.
The ISSCR is updating its guidelines to address the use of pluripotent stem cells in modeling early human embryo development. The new guidelines outline principles and recommendations for researchers, including oversight by special committees and reporting to Embryo Research Oversight (EMRO) processes.
A study of families in Singapore found that parents defer discussing their psychological pain with spouses to avoid emotional distress. Researchers developed a therapeutic app called Narrative e-Writing Intervention (NeW-I) to support caregivers.
A new study reveals that brain imaging can improve diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders by identifying distinct neurobiological signatures. The research used machine learning to analyze the brains of over 1,100 children and adolescents with symptoms of depression and anxiety.
A new point-of-care diagnostic test has been developed using a biomarker called RC0497, which can differentiate infected individuals from healthy controls. The test shows promise in enabling early detection and timely treatment of this potentially deadly tick-borne disease.
A study by Anglia Ruskin University found that sleep disturbance is common among young children with neurodevelopmental disorders, including Down's syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, and Williams syndrome. The research showed that improved sleep patterns were associated with better language skills in these children.
A collaborative clinical trial has led to changes in the treatment of leukemia driven by the Philadelphia chromosome, a high-risk subtype associated with poor outcomes. Dasatinib was found to provide greater benefit than the standard of care, resulting in improved event-free survival rates.
A $25 million project led by Georgia Tech Research Institute aims to develop scalable DNA-based molecular storage techniques for deployable, exabyte-scale storage. The goal is to significantly reduce size, weight, and power requirements while improving long-term data storage.
Higher-density development with more impervious surfaces causes runoff, leading to increased water pollution. Agriculture also contributes significantly to water pollution, and anti-sprawl policies can prevent much-needed land-use changes that reduce pollution.
African swine fever virus can replicate in various pig cells and has a relatively conservative genome. Whole-genome sequencing is crucial for understanding the transmission route of ASFV. Nanopore sequencing technology proved more efficient than traditional next-generation sequencing methods in obtaining viral genomes.
Researchers at TUM functionalized a simple rod-like building block with hydroxamic acids to form molecular networks displaying complexity and beauty. The networks exhibit exceptional properties and chiral symmetry, with unique opportunities for bottom-up nano-templating.
Researchers at Kobe University developed a method to control protein anchorage position in engineered yeast cells, improving ethanol production by 30% and increasing potential applications in bio-production and medicine. This technique utilizes anchoring domains to manipulate protein location on the cell surface.
Research shows that older patients with untreated sleep apnea need greater medical care due to higher costs and increased health risks. The study found that Medicare beneficiaries with OSA had nearly $20,000 more in costs per year compared to those who were diagnosed and treated.
Scientists have combined multiple measurements of quantum materials into one, discovering a new way to measure their behavior. This breakthrough allows for the control and manipulation of these materials for possible applications in technology such as quantum computing.
A team from Nara Institute of Science and Technology has developed a method to embed information in 3D printed objects and retrieve it using a consumer document scanner. The technique uses Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) with modified layer thickness to hide data.
A new study may help develop personalized blood stem cells for treating leukemias and other conditions. By amplifying a regular gene, researchers can push pluripotent stem cells to produce more blood cells.
A new study reveals genetically engineered mosquitoes that are refractory to all four types of dengue virus, providing a promising approach for controlling the spread of this mosquito-borne disease. The mosquitoes express an anti-DENV gene that prevents them from being infected or transmitting the virus.
Regular police patrols on platforms reduced reported crime and disorder by 21% in some of London's most crime-ridden stations. The experiment found that the presence of patrolling officers had a minimal impact on crime, with 97% of the measured effect occurring when officers were absent.
The giant squid's full genome sequence has been published, providing insight into its anatomy and evolution. The genome, similar to other animals, suggests that the squid did not get its massive size through whole-genome duplication.
Researchers found that combined exposure to air pollution and early life stress affects attention and thought problems in school-age children. The study, published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, suggests a 'double hit' on shared biological pathways connected to these issues.
Researchers at Aarhus University used AlphaZero to control a quantum system, demonstrating its applicability to three different problems. The algorithm learned to exploit an underlying symmetry of the problem, surprising the team with its ability.
Scientists have developed a proteomic atlas of senescence-associated secretomes, which can be used to identify senescent cells and their inflammatory factors. This will enable the development of simple, reliable biomarkers to assess the abundance of senescent cells in human tissues.
A new study found that older Black and Asian adults report having significantly fewer close friends and local friends compared to their White peers. The research highlights the need for targeted interventions to address social isolation and loneliness among ethnic minority adults.
A new computational model shows that regular crop rotations switching every other year may not be optimal for maximizing crop yield when threatened by plant pathogens. The analysis identified patterns of crop rotation that maintain soil quality and diminish pathogen load, suggesting a more sustainable approach to agriculture.
A study found improved real-time prediction of influenza-like illness in five US states compared to current surveillance methods using de-identified data from wearable devices. The researchers used Fitbit data to identify abnormal resting heart rates and sleep patterns, which were linked to increased risk of flu.
Researchers found that asteroid impact was primary cause of K/Pg mass extinction, while volcanic outgassing played role in shaping species after event. Volcanic emissions altered carbon cycle, allowing oceans to absorb CO2, limiting global warming and potentially influencing Cenozoic life.
Membrane TNFR1 receptors exist as monomers and dimers in the absence of TNFα, but form trimers and oligomers upon activation. The study reveals new insights into the physiology and patterns of TNFR1 in the cell membrane, which could be relevant for cancer and inflammatory diseases.
A team of researchers has developed a novel attack detection scheme that captures vulnerable communication links, allowing systems to react optimally even under attack. The approach uses an adaptive observer to detect the onset of attacks and learns how they disrupt the system, enabling it to perform better under duress.
Researchers found that melanoma cells secrete extracellular vesicles via the hedgehog signalling pathway, intensifying malignant properties in target cells. This discovery can help develop better treatment and diagnostics for melanoma.
Researchers at University of Notre Dame have identified a strategy to support nerve regeneration after brachial plexus injury. The study found that chemotherapy treatment can help stabilize axon invasion, allowing severed sensory axons to penetrate the spinal cord barrier.
The Akay Lab has developed a new microfluidic brain cancer chip that can simultaneously administer multiple drugs and assess their response to glioblastoma cells. The device enables fast drug combination testing in as little as two weeks, potentially improving patient survival rates.
Researchers have discovered a fossilized scorpion from the Silurian period, revealing its transition from aquatic to terrestrial life. The ancient animal's internal organs show similarities to modern-day scorpions and horseshoe crabs, indicating it was pre-adapted for life on land.
A larger hippocampus may not guarantee better memory in older adults, with a new study highlighting the significance of its white matter connectivity. The research analyzed over 330 participants and found that faster learning was only seen in those with both a larger hippocampus and uniform white matter structure.
Researchers developed functional neuromuscular organoids that form complex neuronal networks directing muscle tissue contraction. These organoids overcome limitations in studying human neuromuscular diseases, which are caused by defects in the control of body movement.
Researchers have designed modified red blood cells that can circulate for several weeks and target specific infections or diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's. These 'super-human' cells use a sticky surface to attach to bacteria and release antibiotics exactly where needed.
A Yale-led team of researchers argue that asteroid impacts, not volcanoes, were the primary cause of the mass extinction event that killed the dinosaurs. The study's findings contradict recent work on the Deccan Traps, massive eruptions in India that occurred around the time of the K-Pg extinction event.
Researchers successfully sequenced and annotated the giant squid's genome, providing a unique opportunity to explore its evolutionary history. The genomic draft reveals insights into the giant squid's size, growth rate, and age.
A new synthesis method has been developed to unlock the secrets of 'strange metals', which exhibit unusual temperature behavior. The research team's findings confirm that quantum-critical charge fluctuations play a key role in their behavior.
A German long-term study reveals that occasional acts of theft and low-level violent crime are common among adolescents, but most drop delinquent behavior after adolescence. The study highlights the importance of good relationships, parental attentiveness, and socialization in reducing juvenile crime.
A prehabilitation program that encourages patients to move more, eat healthier, cut back on tobacco, breathe deeper, reduce stress, and focus on their goals after surgery has been shown to reduce hospital length of stay and total costs. The study involved hundreds of patients in 21 hospitals across Michigan and found that prehab patien...
Researchers developed a new laser-based system that can image around corners in real time, enabling applications such as detecting hazards or pedestrians in self-driving cars. The system uses deep learning to reconstruct hidden objects at high resolutions and speeds.
Media reports on chronic pain focus on opioid-based treatments and cannabis, overlooking evidence-based non-pharmaceutical options. Research analysis reveals limited attention to adverse effects of medicinal cannabis and inadequate resources for pain management.
IsoBank aims to provide a centralized repository for stable isotope data, addressing the need for accessible and organized datasets. The database will facilitate comparison across time, space, and subject, enabling researchers to build on existing knowledge.
New York University professors created three digital games to train cognitive skills, which have proven effective through research studies. The games, including Gwakkamolé, CrushStations, and All You Can ET, improve executive functions like memory, inhibition, and working memory.
Researchers found that estrogen regulates accumulation of immune cells in the liver, promoting tumor growth and immune suppression. The study suggests exploring sex hormones in female cancer patients and using anti-estrogen drugs to improve immunotherapy outcomes.
A study led by University at Buffalo biologist Shermali Gunawardena has explored the properties of alpha-synuclein, a protein associated with Parkinson's disease. The research suggests that deleting a specific region of the protein may help prevent key problems that occur when too much alpha-synuclein is produced.