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Science News Archive July 2020 - Page 43


Page 43 of 47

Norovirus has two alternative capsid structures which change before infection

Scientists from Japan investigate the mouse norovirus structure and find two alternative capsid structures (type A and type B) that switch depending on aqueous conditions. Type B particles show a delay in propagation and reduced adsorption to host cells, suggesting they may evade the immune system before changing to type A for infection.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateJul 3, 2020

The sixth sense of animals

Researchers found that animals exhibited unusual behavior up to 20 hours before earthquakes, with stronger reactions closer to the epicenter. The movement data were evaluated using statistical models, suggesting a potential for an animal-based earthquake early warning system.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalEthology·DateJul 3, 2020

Getting a grasp on India's malaria burden

A new approach developed by Kyoto University scientists provides insight into the liver stage of the Plasmodium vivax malaria parasite. The method involves infecting human liver cells with mosquito-bred parasites, enabling researchers to study the parasite's life cycle and develop more effective treatments.

SourceKyoto University·JournalMalaria Journal·DateJul 3, 2020

Sniffing out smell

Researchers discovered that neural representations of smell in the cortex reflect chemical similarities between odors, allowing for categorization. The findings also suggest that sensory experiences can rewire these representations.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNature·DateJul 2, 2020

Timing of SNAP benefits can reduce childhood injuries

A new study found that low-income families receiving SNAP benefits later in the month experience fewer emergency room visits for childhood injuries, likely due to better meal planning and food security. The researchers suggest that supporting federal food assistance programs like SNAP can help reduce childhood injuries and morbidity.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalBMC Pediatrics·DateJul 2, 2020

Coronavirus damages the endocrine system

A new review finds that COVID-19 can cause damage to the endocrine system, leading to worsening of existing conditions and increased risk of diabetes. Steroids may be a crucial treatment option for patients with COVID-19, as recent studies have shown improved mortality rates in severely ill patients treated with dexamethasone.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalJournal of the Endocrine Society·DateJul 2, 2020

The protein that stands between us and autoimmunity

Studies from Osaka University revealed that Tet2 and Tet3 proteins play a crucial role in regulating B cell activity and preventing autoimmunity. By knocking out these proteins, researchers found increased serum levels of autoantibodies and organ damage in mice, highlighting the importance of epigenetic control in immune function.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Immunology·DateJul 2, 2020

Study explains potential causes for 'happy hypoxia' condition in COVID-19 patients

A new study sheds light on the mysterious condition known as silent hypoxemia or 'happy hypoxia' in COVID-19 patients. The research reveals that low oxygen levels without shortness of breath may be caused by a combination of factors, including inaccurate pulse oximeter readings and the brain's delayed response to low oxygen levels.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJul 2, 2020

Gender gaps in STEM college majors emerge in high school

Research by Cornell University's Kim Weeden suggests that early high school occupational plans are a key factor in determining future STEM college majors, with significant gender differences emerging at this stage. Women are less likely than men to plan for STEM careers, despite similar math abilities and academic achievements.

SourceCornell University·JournalSociology of Education·DateJul 2, 2020

Early marriage may lead to unsafe drinking behavior by those with higher genetic risk

A study found that early marriage can exacerbate risky alcohol use among individuals with a high genetic predisposition, contradicting the traditional view of marriage as a protective factor. The research suggests that early life events may not be as protective against poor mental and physical health outcomes as previously thought.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalDevelopment and Psychopathology·DateJul 2, 2020

A scientific measure of dog years

Researchers found a new formula that better matches canine-human life stages, with an 8-week-old dog equivalent to a 9-month-old baby. The study also identified developmental genes that drive aging and created an age-measuring clock for different species.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Systems·DateJul 2, 2020