Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive May 2020 - Page 19


Page 19 of 42

Direct control of dendritic cells for tracking and immune modulation

Dendritic cells can be labeled using an engineered sugar molecule that is taken up by the cells and displayed on their surfaces, allowing them to track DCs in vivo. The researchers also developed a system to modulate the behavior of DCs via click chemistry, which has great promise for treating cancer and other diseases.

Factors associated with firearm suicide risk

Researchers identified sociodemographic factors associated with firearm suicide risk in US adults, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. The study found that certain demographic characteristics increased the likelihood of firearm suicide, emphasizing the importance of addressing these factors.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMay 18, 2020

Cavity-causing bacteria assemble an army of protective microbes on human teeth

A team from the University of Pennsylvania and Georgia Tech discovered that cavity-causing bacteria, Streptococcus mutans, are encased in a protective community of other microbes forming a unique spatial organization. This structure is crucial to how they cause tooth decay and can be used to target the pathogenic core of dental biofilms.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2020

Mars: Where mud flows like lava

A team of researchers recreated Martian conditions in a low-pressure chamber, observing the flow of mud that behaves similarly to pahoehoe lava flows on Earth. The study confirms sedimentary volcanism is possible on Mars, prompting a reevaluation of geological structures previously attributed to lava flows.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 18, 2020

Study traces brain-to-gut connections

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Brain Institute have identified neural pathways connecting the brain to the stomach, suggesting a bidirectional communication network that influences digestion and gut health. This discovery provides new insights into common gut disorders and may lead to the development of brain-based therapies.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2020

Long-term data show hurricanes are getting stronger

A study analyzing nearly 40 years of hurricane satellite imagery found a global increase in maximum sustained winds, consistent with expectations of how hurricanes respond to a warming world. The research built on previous work identifying trends in hurricane intensification and poleward migrations of hurricanes.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2020

The malaria parasite P. vivax can remain in the spleen upon expression of certain proteins

Research reveals that malaria parasite P. vivax adheres to human spleen cells via variant proteins, allowing it to hide from the immune system and evade elimination. This finding suggests a double role for the spleen in malaria pathology and opens new avenues for vaccine targets and exposure markers.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2020

SWOG researchers go digital at ASCO20 Virtual Scientific Program

Researchers from SWOG will make 31 digital presentations at the ASCO20 Virtual Scientific Program, reporting on trials involving chemotherapy regimens, financial toxicity, and multiple myeloma treatments. The studies found that pre-surgery chemotherapy can be done safely and has good outcomes regardless of the drugs used.

SourceSWOG·DateMay 18, 2020

Emissions from road construction could be halved using today's technology

Researchers from Chalmers University of Technology found that emissions from road construction could be halved using today's technology, including transport optimisation, recycling and reuse of excavation masses, material efficiency and design optimisation. The study also highlights the importance of replacing cement clinker as a binde...

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·DateMay 18, 2020

Arts-based method to detect school bullying

Researchers developed a graphical vignette method to assess bullying episodes in schools, allowing kids to express their opinions freely. The study found that this approach can provide an outlet for schoolchildren to formulate what's important to them personally, promoting openness and cooperation.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalInternational Journal of Qualitative Methods·DateMay 18, 2020

AI unlocks rhythms of 'deep sleep'

A new AI-powered algorithm has revolutionized the analysis of deep sleep patterns by automating the detection of K-complexes. The tool, developed by Flinders University researchers, outperforms human scoring methods in speed and accuracy, providing a more comprehensive understanding of sleep health.

SourceFlinders University·JournalSLEEP·DateMay 18, 2020

Persistence of cold-water biodiversity

Researchers found that specialized cold-water invertebrate communities have persisted through time even after deglaciation, suggesting that high-altitude streams and snow-fed water sources are key to preserving mountain biodiversity. The study used biological and glacier retreat data from Glacier National Park to support these findings.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2020