Bringing fusion energy to commercial reality
A $1.5 million project aims to reduce the cost of high-temperature superconductors by a factor of 30, enabling the widespread adoption of fusion energy as an on-demand, emissions-free source of power
Science News Archive September 2020
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Malnutrition among a hunter-gatherer group
A San group in Namibia faces malnutrition due to a dysfunctional local food system, with no agency over food sources and limited access to traditional foods. The researchers recommend context-specific solutions, including eliminating movement restrictions and supporting traditional foodways to supplement diets with key nutritional groups.
Feeling misunderstood boosts support for Brexit
A new study by University of Exeter researchers found that feeling misunderstood by other groups significantly increases support for Brexit and other separatist movements. The research also revealed a unique link between 'felt understanding' and trust, with those who feel understood being more likely to trust and forgive others.
Bending the curve of biodiversity loss
A new study suggests that a reversal in global biodiversity trends is feasible through integrated conservation and restoration efforts combined with food system transformations. This requires rapid stepped-up action in two key areas: bold conservation and restoration, and food system transformation.
Mysterious cellular droplets come into focus
Biological condensates, previously known as membrane-less organelles, have been found to play a crucial role in DNA repair and aging. Researchers used the Frontera supercomputer to study their behavior and recruitment of molecules.
BATTERY 2030+ - large-scale European initiative for battery research starts up
The BATTERY 2030+ initiative aims to create more environmentally friendly and safer batteries with better performance, storage options, and longer life. The seven projects will focus on developing sensors for real-time monitoring, self-healing components, and new battery concepts.
Where rocks come alive: OSIRIS-REx observes an asteroid in action
The OSIRIS-REx mission reveals that asteroid Bennu sheds material periodically, with particles ejecting from the surface and orbiting or falling back onto it. The spacecraft's observations provide insight into the processes likely causing this activity, shedding new light on dynamic asteroids.
RIT scientists contribute to the first discovery of an intermediate-mass black hole
Rochester Institute of Technology scientists played a key role in detecting the most massive gravitational wave binary observed to date, GW190521. The event revealed an intermediate-mass black hole with masses of about 85 and 66 solar masses.
An evolutionary roll of the dice explains why we're not perfect
A study found that in species with small populations, chance events take precedence over natural selection, allowing imperfections to creep in. The researchers analyzed the genetic instructions used by cells to make proteins and discovered that less efficient stop codons can increase in frequency due to chance events.
New microfluidic device minimizes loss of high value samples
A team of scientists from Arizona State University developed a microfluidic device that reduces sample size and waste in X-ray crystallographic experiments. The device, validated by publishing results in Nature Communications, allows for the determination of protein structures with high resolution and reduced sample consumption.
Baboon matriarchs enjoy less stress
A Duke University-led study found that alpha female baboons have significantly lower levels of glucocorticoids, hormones produced in response to stress. The researchers discovered that higher-ranking females get preferential treatment, leading to faster-growing babies and increased survival rates.
Special journal issue features Nemours heart specialists' best practices for children
The special journal issue features Nemours pediatric cardiologists' expertise on echocardiography and other imaging techniques used in children with cardiovascular disease. The articles highlight best practices for screening, diagnosing, and managing congenital heart disease to improve patient outcomes.
Mineral undergoes self-healing of irradiation damage
Researchers discovered that helium ions can heal radiation-damaged monazite, a mineral that always remains moderately damaged. This unusual property has significant implications for Earth sciences research and experiments with synthetic minerals.
Researchers solve decades old mitochondrial mystery that could lead to new disease treatments
Scientists have identified the SLC25A51 gene as a key player in transporting NAD+ to mitochondria, a critical step in cellular metabolism. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for diseases such as neurodegenerative disorders and cancer by manipulating NAD+ levels in specific cells.
Australian telescope finds no signs of alien technology in 10 million star systems
Astronomers used the Murchison Widefield Array (MWA) telescope to scan a patch of sky known to include at least 10 million stars. The study found no technosignatures, or signs of powerful radio emissions that could indicate intelligent life.
Generic cholesterol drugs save medicare billions of dollars, study finds
A study by UT Southwestern Medical Center found that switching from brand-name to generic cholesterol medications between 2014 and 2018 saved Medicare billions of dollars. The total costs on these drugs went down despite an increase in prescriptions for LDL-lowering drugs, with the number of generic prescriptions rising by 35%.
29 countries participate in the third International Economics Olympiad
The International Economics Olympiad has attracted participants from 29 countries, including Russia, Brazil, and the USA. The event offers an Open Track option for students who cannot participate in traditional team competitions.
From Pee Wee to NCAA, does football early in life affect concussion recovery later?
A new study of NCAA football players has found that the age they first started playing tackle football may not affect their recovery after a concussion. The study, which involved 621 athletes, tested their symptom severity and performance on thinking and memory tests after experiencing a recent concussion.
Albert Einstein College of Medicine receives $16 million NIH grant to study cellular process linked to Alzheimer's disease
Researchers aim to determine how autophagy, a cellular recycling process, is related to Alzheimer's disease and dementia. They will examine the effect of compromised autophagy on peripheral tissues and explore potential interventions to reverse decline.
Discovery of four COVID-19 risk groups helps guide treatment
A new COVID-19 risk score, called the 4C Mortality Score, accurately predicts mortality in adult patients admitted to hospital with covid-19. The score categorises patients as low, intermediate, high, or very high risk of death, informing treatment decisions and resource allocation.
More cats might be COVID-19 positive than first believed, study suggests
A new study found that 15 out of 102 cat blood samples showed COVID-19 antibodies, with 11 cats having neutralizing antibodies to block the infection. The cats were from Wuhan, where the first outbreak occurred, and had been exposed to humans or other infected animals.
Designed antiviral proteins inhibit SARS-CoV-2 in the lab
Researchers have designed computer-generated antiviral proteins that protect lab-grown human cells from SARS-CoV-2 infection, rivalling the protective actions of best-known neutralizing antibodies. The most potent candidate, LCB1, is six times more effective on a per mass basis than reported monoclonal antibodies.
Ticked off: Researchers target Lyme disease vaccine with aid of $1.9 million federal grant
Researchers at West Virginia University are developing a vaccine to prevent Lyme disease, which affects over 300,000 Americans annually. The team aims to identify relevant antigens and target them in hopes of clearing the pathogen out, making it harder for it to change and evade the immune system.
When, how, and why to use harvest aids
Harvest aids accelerate natural processes to minimize trash, improve quality, and expedite harvesting. The timing of application is crucial, considering factors like labor availability, weather, and regional preferences.
Iron is to blame for carbon dioxide emissions from soil, says a soil scientists from RUDN
A study published in Geoderma journal reveals that iron minerals and bacteria are main agents of carbon dioxide emissions from soil. Iron facilitates formation of active oxygen forms that destroy plant waste and promote CO2 emissions.
At least 28 extinctions prevented by conservation action in recent decades
A recent study published in Conservation Letters reveals that conservation efforts have prevented the global extinction of at least 28 bird and mammal species since 1993. The species include the Puerto Rican Amazon, Przewalski's Horse, and Iberian Lynx, among others.
Substances with anti-cancer action are identified in Brazilian red propolis
Researchers at USP and UNICAMP discovered eight novel polyphenols with anti-cancer properties in Brazilian red propolis. Two substances isolated from the rarest type of propolis significantly reduced proliferation of ovarian, breast, and brain cancer cells.
Urbanization and agriculture are land uses that most affect Brazil's rivers
A nationwide survey of land use impacts on water quality in Brazil reveals that agriculture and urbanization are the main culprits behind river pollution. The study found that degradation varies according to scale or dimension used to evaluate it, and that catchment analysis appears to best reflect overall water quality.
Vibration device makes homes 'smart' by tracking appliances
Researchers at Cornell University have developed a single device, VibroSense, that can track 17 types of appliances in households by detecting subtle vibrations using lasers and deep learning networks. The device showed nearly 96% accuracy in identifying activities across five houses.
Adolescent girls at risk for self-injury can be identified using a short psychological profile
A study identified three key factors that predict the first occurrence of nonsuicidal self-harm in adolescent girls: low conscientiousness, high avoidance, and parental substance abuse history. These psychological vulnerabilities were found to distinguish girls who initiated self-harm from those who did not.
Failure to calibrate for ethnicity in fracture epidemiology would do more harm than good
The Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX) is widely used to predict major osteoporotic fractures, but experts warn that failing to calibrate for ethnicity could lead to large errors in fracture risk assessment. Ethnicity-specific models have been calibrated for specific populations, and their inclusion is crucial for accurate stratifica...
Bat tick found for the first time in New Jersey
A new species of 'soft' tick associated with bats has been reported in New Jersey, raising concerns about public health risks. The tick, Carios kelleyi, was found on big brown bat larvae in Mercer and Sussex counties, highlighting the need for further research into its disease-carrying potential.
Analysis: 'Near-zero incidence' of patients acquiring COVID-19 at Brigham and Women's
A study by the Brigham Infection Control team analyzed all COVID-19 cases at the hospital during a surge in Massachusetts. The results show that only two patients likely acquired the disease within the hospital, despite strict infection control measures, including universal masking and visitor restrictions.
Climate engineering: Modelling projections oversimplify risks
Researchers warn that climate engineering modelling often produces overly optimistic 'best-case' scenarios, which can influence research, policy, and industry planning. The authors recommend increasing stakeholder input and clearer communication to forestall this trend.
Researchers show how AI-controlled sensors could save lives in 'smart' hospitals and homes
AI-controlled sensors can alert clinicians and patients of impending health crises, reducing nosocomial infections. Infrared technologies enable real-time monitoring of patients' vital signs, allowing for timely interventions.
ISLAND conference to focus on STEM access for all learners
The Inclusion in Science Learning A New Direction (ISLAND) conference is a global forum for promoting STEM inclusion for persons with disabilities. The 11th annual conference will be held virtually on September 12, bringing together access technology developers, educators, and researchers to share experiences and best practices.
Establishment of a rapid synthesis method for useful organic fluorine compounds
Researchers developed a rapid synthesis method for useful organic fluorine compounds, including gem-difluoroalkenes. This method uses triflones and Grignard reagents to produce the compounds efficiently and safely.
Different response of mitochondrial respiration in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue to endurance e
A study found that endurance exercise improves mitochondrial respiration in skeletal muscles but has no impact on adipose tissue. This difference affects insulin sensitivity, with women showing higher cellular respiration in adipose tissue than men.
Rethinking business: Disruptions like the corona crisis also create new opportunities
A new study suggests that companies should adapt to external disruptions, such as the corona pandemic, by recognizing and leveraging these changes. This can lead to innovative business strategies, as seen in past crises like the global financial crisis of 2008 and the temperance movement in the USA in the 1920s.
Stanford researchers anticipate rise of some mosquito-borne diseases
Researchers predict a shift toward mosquitoes carrying dengue fever and other diseases, posing a significant threat to public health in Sub-Saharan Africa. The study highlights the need for targeted control measures, including diagnostics and community-based interventions, to combat this emerging threat.
Gut microbiota not involved in the incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus
A study of 270 overweight women found no link between gut microbiota composition and the incidence of gestational diabetes. However, the combination of fish oil and probiotics was shown to modulate gut microbiota in women who did not develop gestational diabetes. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.
New drug could improve life expectancy and quality for pancreatic cancer patients
A new drug developed by University of Sheffield researchers could block signals from a hormone that helps cancer cells grow and spread, potentially improving life expectancy and quality of life for pancreatic cancer patients. The compound targets a specific receptor in cancer cells without affecting vital bodily processes.
Muscle aging: Stronger for longer
Researchers discovered that rapamycin preserves muscle function by stabilizing neuromuscular junctions, a key factor in maintaining healthy muscles during aging. A molecular signature of sarcopenia was also identified, highlighting mTORC1 as the primary contributor to age-related muscle wasting.
Study finds botanical effective for chemo-resistant colon cancer
Researchers at City of Hope found that Andrographis paniculata, a natural botanical, is effective in killing chemo-resistant colon cancer cells when used in conjunction with chemotherapy. The study's goal was to develop a non-toxic treatment that could succeed in killing cancer cells.
Americans continue to struggle controlling high blood pressure; 11% fewer adults have it in check
A new study reveals that the percentage of US adults with controlled high blood pressure has declined by 11% between 2017-2018 and 2013-2014. The decline is attributed to less effective use of blood pressure medication and management, particularly among older adults.
Adding stem cells to educational intervention can significantly help kids with autism
A clinical trial indicates that a combination of stem cell therapy and educational intervention can significantly improve social communication, language, and daily skills in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study found positive changes in various aspects after stem cell transplantation combined with educational interve...
New ultrafast yellow laser poised to benefit biomedical applications
Researchers created a compact and ultrafast high-power yellow laser with excellent beam quality, filling the need for practical yellow light source emitting ultrafast pulses. The laser's wavelength range is highly absorbed by hemoglobin in blood, making it useful for medical treatments, dermatology, and eye surgery.
Case study describes unexpected diagnosis of one of the first cases of MIS-C in US
A 14-year-old boy's mysterious symptoms led to a rare diagnosis of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) caused by COVID-19. A new clinical pathway has been developed to quickly identify and treat cases, saving lives with timely information-sharing.
UCF researchers are helping develop rapid, longer lasting COVID disinfectant
Researchers are co-developing a new, rapid-acting, long-lasting disinfectant spray that instantly kills viruses without harsh chemicals. The spray uses UCF-developed cerium oxide nanoparticles, which have shown therapeutic properties against various diseases.
Punctured lung affects one in a 100 hospitalized COVID-19 patients
A study published in European Respiratory Journal found that COVID-19 patients developed pneumothorax at a 0.91% incidence rate. Survival rates were higher among younger patients, while older patients and those with acidosis had poorer outcomes.
For an effective COVID vaccine, look beyond antibodies to T-cells
Research suggests that robust T-cell responses are key to durable protection against coronaviruses, rather than short-lived antibody responses. Long-lasting T-cells can provide years of immunity and may prevent adverse reactions such as antibody-dependent enhancement.
Advanced NVMe controller technology for next generation memory devices
Researchers developed an open-source 'OpenExpress' technology to improve NVMe performance and accessibility. The new tech achieved parallel data input/output processing, increasing bandwidth by 76% and reducing input/output delay by 68%.
A new kind of liquid scintillator via hybridizing perovskite nanocrystals with organic molecules
Researchers have created a new kind of liquid scintillator by combining perovskite nanocrystals with organic molecules, enabling efficient X-ray detection and high-resolution imaging. The hybrid material outperforms conventional scintillators in terms of quantum yield and scintillation decay time.
NASA infrared imagery shows Tropical Storm Rene's seesaw of strength
Tropical Storm Rene weakened to a tropical depression on Sept. 8 but regained strength, with NASA's Aqua satellite capturing its seesaw-like pattern of strengthening and weakening storms. The strongest storms had cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating potential for heavy rainfall.
MDIBL scientists decipher role of a stress response gene
Researchers at MDI Biological Laboratory have discovered the role of Klf9 in regulating the physiological response to cortisol, a hormone secreted by the adrenal glands in response to stress. The study sheds light on the mechanisms behind chronic stress-induced inflammation and its contribution to age-related diseases.
Caffeine shot delivers wakeup call on antifungal drug resistance
Scientists from the University of Edinburgh have made a groundbreaking discovery that fungal cells can develop drug resistance through epigenetic changes, without altering their DNA sequence. This finding has the potential to revolutionize the management of fungal infections in plants and humans.
Small proteins against SARS-CoV-2 neutralize infection in cell culture
Researchers developed protein inhibitors that block SARS-CoV-2 interaction with human receptor ACE2, neutralizing virus infection. The small proteins were stable and showed promise for intranasal delivery.
Physicists explain mysterious dark matter deficiency in galaxy pair
A study led by UC Riverside physicist Hai-Bo Yu suggests that the self-interacting dark matter theory explains why two galaxies contain less dark matter than expected. The researchers used sophisticated simulations to show that tidal stripping of the satellite galaxies' mass can occur, leading to a decrease in dark matter content.
Add human-genome produced RNA to the list of cell surface molecules
Bioengineers at UC San Diego have discovered a new type of membrane-associated extracellular RNA, or maxRNA, that is present on the surface of human cells. This finding suggests a more expanded role for RNA in cell-to-cell and cell-to-environment interactions than previously thought.
Dismantling structural racism in nursing
Two nurse leaders outline a framework to address racial inequities and injustices in nursing practice, research, scholarship, and teaching. The framework aims to lead organizational change and dismantle structural racism in schools of nursing and health systems.