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Science News Archive November 2020 - Page 12


Page 12 of 43

A biochemical random number

Researchers at ETH Zurich have successfully created biochemical random numbers using DNA synthesis, correcting a long-standing challenge in generating truly random numbers. The team achieved this by synthesizing DNA molecules with randomly placed building blocks, resulting in vast quantities of randomness that can be stored in a small ...

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 20, 2020

Science reveals secrets of a mummy's portrait

Researchers studied a speck of purple pigment from an Egyptian portrait, revealing that it was likely made synthetically and mixed with clay and beeswax. The discovery sheds new light on the cultural significance of ancient portraits and their artistic techniques.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalInternational Journal of Ceramic Engineering & Science·DateNov 20, 2020

Dormant threat: Abnormal proteins unleash latent toxicity in neurodegenerative diseases

Researchers have discovered a mechanism of action by which abnormal proteins cause indirect damage to neurons, leading to dendrite defects in fly models of neurodegenerative diseases. The study identifies a problematic transcription factor called NF-κB, which becomes improperly regulated due to the presence of abnormal proteins.

Microplastics in the death zone

Researchers found substantial quantities of polyester, acrylic, nylon, and polypropylene fibres in snow samples from Mount Everest. The high-altitude discovery suggests microplastics could have been transported from lower altitudes by extreme winds or fragmented during expeditions.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalOne Earth·DateNov 20, 2020

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy guideline encourages shared decision-making

The updated HCM guideline emphasizes shared decision-making in the management of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. It provides recommendations on evaluation and management, medical therapies, septal reduction therapies, and SCD risk assessment/prevention. The guideline aims to personalize treatment options based on patient goals and concerns.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 20, 2020

Biofriendly protocells pump up blood vessels

A team of researchers has developed biocompatible protocells that can generate nitric oxide gas, leading to blood vessel expansion. The synthetic cells are coated in red blood cell fragments and contain an enzyme that produces hydrogen peroxide, which is then converted into nitric oxide.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Chemistry·DateNov 20, 2020

Near-infrared probe decodes telomere dynamics

A synthetic probe offers a safe approach for visualizing chromosome tips in living cells. The probe can precisely deliver a fluorescent compound to telomeres on the tips of chromosomes, enabling researchers to understand their relevance to disease and aging. This breakthrough advances research into aging and diseases like cancer.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 20, 2020

Indonesian wildfires a 'fixable problem'

Indonesian wildfires are a major issue due to their impact on the environment and human health. The project aims to investigate the causes and possible solutions to these fires. Experts believe that the drivers behind the peatland fires are a combination of climatic processes, land use, and ignition by humans.

The microbiome of Da Vinci's drawings

Researchers analyzed seven Da Vinci drawings using Nanopore sequencing, finding a dominance of bacteria over fungi, with many exhibiting human or insect microbiomes. The study also identified human DNA, likely introduced by restoration workers, and correlations with geographical location.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateNov 20, 2020

New findings speed progress towards affordable gene therapy

Researchers have developed a new method for deploying CRISPR/Cas9 directly into target cells using metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) coated with green tea phytochemicals. This approach has the potential to reduce costs and increase safety compared to existing viral methods, which are currently the only approved methods in trial globally.

SourceRMIT University·JournalChemical Communications·DateNov 20, 2020

Glyphosate may affect human gut microbiota

Researchers from University of Turku developed a new bioinformatics tool to predict microbial sensitivity to glyphosate. The tool classifies 80-90% of microbial species as sensitive or resistant, with 54% of human core gut bacterial species potentially affected.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·DateNov 20, 2020

Potential cellular target for eliminating bone breakdown in osteoporosis found

A recent study has discovered a cell type that governs bone formation and maintenance, shedding light on the mechanisms behind osteoporosis. Researchers found that bone marrow adipogenic lineage precursors (MALPs) play a distinct role in regulating bone remodeling, and targeting these cells could lead to more effective therapies.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 20, 2020

Three reasons why COVID-19 can cause silent hypoxia

Researchers used computer modeling to investigate the mechanisms behind silent hypoxia in COVID-19 patients. They found that a combination of biological factors, including damaged lung tissue, blood clotting, and air-to-blood flow mismatch, contribute to low oxygen levels. This understanding can inform treatment decisions for clinicians.

SourceBoston University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 19, 2020

The very hungry, angry caterpillars

Researchers observed that monarch caterpillars become more aggressive in the absence of milkweed, their primary food source. The study revealed that limited food availability triggers an attack response among caterpillars, highlighting a previously unexplored aspect of insect behavior.

SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·DateNov 19, 2020

New tool to combat terrorism

Forensic experts at Flinders University developed a system to trace dust DNA for terrorist investigations, matching soil profiles from specific regions or countries. This technique complements existing forensic intelligence tools and provides evidence of travel history.

SourceFlinders University·JournalForensic Science International·DateNov 19, 2020

A filter for environmental remediation

Researchers developed a nanopowder made of sodium titanate nanofibers that can efficiently capture Co2+ ions, increasing surface area for improved removal efficiency. The seaweed-like morphology enhances the filter's ability to remove hazardous heavy metals and radionuclides from water.

SourceOsaka University·JournalRSC Advances·DateNov 19, 2020

The Lancet: Phase 2 trial of Oxford COVID-19 vaccine in healthy older adults finds it is safe and provokes immune response

A phase 2 trial of the Oxford COVID-19 vaccine found it to be safe and provokes an immune response in healthy older adults, who are at a disproportionate risk of severe COVID-19 disease. The vaccine induces both T cell and antibody responses in older and younger adults, suggesting potential protection against infection with SARS-CoV-2.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateNov 19, 2020