Lessons from the flu season
Researchers found that early antiviral treatment reduces 30-day readmissions and length of hospital stay. Troponin studies identify patients at higher risk of mortality due to underlying cardiovascular disease issues.
Science News Archive February 2021 - Page 28
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Obesity contributes to up to half of new diabetes cases annually in the United States
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that obesity contributes to up to half of new Type 2 diabetes cases annually in the United States. The research suggests that reducing obesity could prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes, with public health efforts supporting healthy lifestyles pote...
Ancient seashell resonates after 18,000 years
A multidisciplinary team from CNRS and other institutions studied a large seashell found in the Marsoulas Cave in the Pyrenees, dating back around 18,000 years. The shell is believed to be the oldest known wind instrument of its type, with researchers able to produce sounds similar to those on a modern conch.
CWRU researchers uncover biochemical rules between RNA-protein interactions and expr
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have found a way to measure the kinetics of proteins that bind to RNA, shedding light on gene function regulation in diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. This discovery could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting RNA-protein interactions.
Neurons from blood cells enable researchers to test treatments for genetic brain disease
A new study provides insights into the treatment of Christianson syndrome, a genetic brain disease characterized by reduced brain growth and intellectual disability. Researchers successfully tested two main forms of treatment on stem-cell-derived neurons, finding that gene transfer was effective in neurons with nonsense mutations, whil...
Virtual post-sepsis recovery program may also help recovering COVID-19 patients
A virtual post-sepsis recovery program developed by Atrium Health has shown promise in helping sepsis survivors and those who have recovered from COVID-19. The program, known as STAR, uses low-tech telehealth methods to provide best-practice care for high-risk patients.
Health policy and advocacy focus of CHEST conference
The CHEST conference explores current issues in pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine, including healthcare disparities and coding updates. Interactive presentations will be delivered through expert panel discussions, roundtable discussions, and didactic lectures.
Creating more sustainable fragrances with biotech
Companies are pivoting to biotechnology to manufacture scents and flavors using fermented microbes, which are more sustainable than traditional methods. This approach allows for the creation of new fragrance molecules with consistent flavor and smell, meeting consumer demand and reducing environmental impact.
COVID-related depression linked to reduced physical activity
Researchers found that 61% of surveyed university students were at risk of clinical depression during the pandemic, with disrupted physical activity emerging as a leading risk factor. Those who maintained their exercise habits had significantly lower risk of depression compared to those with decreased physical activity.
SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 10, 2021
Substance in the blood of pregnant women fights pathological immune reaction
A study found that trophoblastic β1-glycoproteins in pregnant women's blood suppress pro-inflammatory immune cells and reduce inflammation. The substance may help prevent pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and autoimmune diseases.
Common anti-depressant may be first-ever treatment for osteoarthritis
A new study has discovered the cellular pathway leading to osteoarthritis and found that paroxetine slows down cartilage degeneration while promoting cartilage health in mice and human cartilage. The drug may be the first-ever treatment for this debilitating disease, which affects over 30 million adults.
Difficulties to care for ICU patients caused by COVID-19
Researchers found that fear, isolation, and lack of training impacted nursing care during the first wave of COVID-19. The study revealed that these factors exacerbated negative emotions and reduced nurse well-being.
Sleep keeps teens on track for good mental health
A study by UniSA sleep experts found that teenagers need at least eight hours of sleep each night to function well. Insufficient sleep can lead to behavioral problems, anxiety, and depression in teens.
SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalChild and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health·DateFeb 10, 2021
Industrial compound gets eco-friendly reaction
Researchers at Nagoya University have found catalysts that improve an important industrial reaction, producing high yields of a compound used in various industries without toxic compounds or high temperatures. The approach offers a practical and sustainable solution for industrial (meth)acrylate ester synthesis.
Sawfish face global extinction unless overfishing is curbed
Three of five sawfish species are critically endangered due to easily caught rostra in fishing nets and valuable fins in the shark fin trade. Conservation efforts focus on eight countries where protections can save the species; adequate protections exist in Australia and the US for some remaining populations.
Silicon chip provides low cost solution to help machines see the world clearly
Researchers have developed a compact and high-performance 3D LiDAR imaging system using a silicon photonic component and CMOS electronic circuit in a single microchip. The prototype achieves accurate imaging and mapping, essential for autonomous cars, robots, drones, and healthcare applications.
Mediterranean-style diet linked to better thinking skills in later life
A Mediterranean-style diet rich in green leafy vegetables and low in meat is associated with higher scores on memory and thinking tests among adults in their late 70s. However, the study found no link between the diet and better brain health or markers of healthy ageing.
Early behavioural problems predict adolescent mental health difficulties
A new study by researchers at the University of Cambridge and Royal Holloway found that children who experience certain behavioral challenges, such as hyperactivity and anxiety, are more likely to develop poor mental health in adolescence. The study also showed that children from less affluent backgrounds are more likely to experience ...
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalSocial Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology·DateFeb 10, 2021
'Sleep hygiene' should be integrated into epilepsy diagnosis and management - study
Children with epilepsy experience poorer sleep quality, disruptions, and parasomnias compared to healthy peers. Integrating sleep assessments into diagnosis and management could reduce seizures' impact on sleep and overall quality of life.
Cell biology - Overseers of cell death
New study reveals that N-terminal acetylation shields proteins from degradation and inhibits programmed cell death, opening up new approaches for cancer therapy. IAPs play a wider role in protein quality control, recognizing defective proteins for destruction, and triggering apoptosis in tumor cells.
Spectacular 'honeycomb heart' revealed in iconic stellar explosion
Astronomers have discovered a unique 'heart-shape' with intricate gas filaments at the centre of the Crab Nebula. The new 3D reconstruction challenges traditional supernova theories and provides unprecedented insights into the explosion.
SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateFeb 10, 2021
Choir singing can improve cognitive functioning among the elderly
Researchers found that elderly choir singers had better verbal flexibility and emotional wellbeing compared to control groups. Choir singing for longer periods also increased feelings of social togetherness among the elderly.
Smectite promotes probiotic biofilm formation in gut for cancer immunotherapy
A new approach to extend probiotic survival in vivo is developed using Smectite, a drug commonly used for gastrointestinal diseases. The study found that Smectite promotes lactic acid bacteria (LAB) biofilm formation, leading to increased anti-tumour immune responses and improved immunotherapy efficacy.
Antibodies to common cold coronaviruses do not protect against SARS-CoV-2
Researchers found that people with cross-reactive antibodies had no protection against SARS-CoV-2, and these antibodies did not correlate with COVID-19 severity. The study suggests that pre-existing immune responses may play a role in reducing disease severity, but more research is needed to confirm this.
Tailor-made drugs to treat epilepsy or cardiovascular diseases
Researchers have elucidated the molecular structure of the Y2 receptor, enabling the development of targeted drugs for treating epilepsy and cardiovascular diseases. The study reveals that Y2 receptor blockers bind differently than comparable molecules at the closely related Y1 subtype.
Cell-selective nanotherapy prevents post-angioplasty restenosis, promotes artery healing
Researchers developed a next-generation nanotherapy that specifically targets injured regions of arteries in mouse models mimicking angioplasty. The nanoparticles containing an microRNA switch offer promising biotechnology to advance the fight against atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
A rare observation of a vampire bat adopting an unrelated pup
Researchers observed a rare event in vampire bats, where a female bat adopted an unrelated orphan after her mate's death. The adoption demonstrated the importance of social relationships in these animals.
Hidden conflict in the mutually beneficial relationship between legumes and rhizobia
A new study by Dr. Kenjiro Quides found that legumes grow to maximum size when a low or medium number of root nodules form, but high nodule numbers lead to drastically reduced growth. Rhizobia population size continues to increase with increasing nodule numbers, suggesting a hidden conflict in the symbiotic relationship.
Scientists develop new, faster method for seeking out dark matter
Researchers use innovative technique called 'quantum squeezing' to dramatically speed up the search for dark matter in the lab. The team hopes to find axion particles, which are likely billions of times smaller than electrons and could explain the existence of dark matter.
Drop the stress
Researchers discovered that stress triggers the formation of molecular droplets in the transcription regulator NELF, leading to a rapid downregulation of gene activity. This mechanism is essential for cell survival upon stress, as cells lacking proper NELF condensation experience higher death rates during stress.
What's the catch? Algal blooms influence fishing booms
Researchers found that prolonged algal blooms lead to larger fish catches, particularly for sardines and squid, in the Red Sea. The study used satellite images to analyze phytoplankton bloom timings and their effect on marine food webs.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalRemote Sensing·DateFeb 10, 2021
Electric cable bacteria breathe oxygen with unheard efficiency
Researchers discovered that a few cells in cable bacteria consume oxygen at extremely high rates, while the rest process food and grow without oxygen. This unique adaptation allows them to focus on food production while minimizing oxygen stress.
Using Nature's strategies in the development of new drugs
Researchers from MedUni Vienna and University of Vienna develop new oxytocin/vasopressin constructs with enhanced efficacy, inspired by naturally occurring dimers like locust neuropeptides. These bioactive molecules offer opportunities to optimize therapeutic application for various disorders.
Temple-Led Team: COVID containment measures in Philly associated with rise in gun violence
A Temple-led team found a significant and sustained increase in firearm violence in Philadelphia following COVID-19 containment policies, which exacerbated existing issues like poverty and structural racism. The study suggests that these measures had a strong association with increased gun violence.
Gulls, sentinels of bacteria in the environment
Researchers found gulls carrying resistant strains of Campylobacter and Salmonella, causing gastroenteritis in humans. The study highlights the importance of wildlife fauna as a reservoir for antibiotic-resistant bacteria, emphasizing the need for a one health approach.
Metabolism: Researchers first to shed light on structure of huge enzyme complex
A new method has enabled scientists to study the natural structure of large enzymes, revealing that they function differently than previously thought. This discovery could help better understand certain diseases, including Alzheimer's and those caused by viruses, and potentially lead to new treatment options.
After COVID-19 hit, federal financial aid applications dropped sharply among first-year students
The study found a 21% decline in submissions among incoming first-year undergraduates and a 7% decline among those with some prior experience. Neighborhoods with higher percentages of Black and Hispanic residents saw significant declines in applications, while areas with lower proportions of these groups experienced increases.
SwRI scientist proposes a new timeline for Mars terrains
A Southwest Research Institute scientist has updated Mars chronology models to suggest that terrains shaped by ancient water activity on the planet's surface may be hundreds of millions of years older than previously thought. The new model also provides a revised age for Isidis Basin, now estimated to be 4-4.2 billion years old.
On the origin of our species
Experts review current understanding of modern human ancestry tracing back to the distant past, identifying three key phases in human evolution. The study suggests that no specific point in time can be identified when modern human ancestry was confined to a limited birthplace.
Research shows emissions of banned ozone-depleting substance are back on the decline
Global emissions of CFC-11 have fallen dramatically, with thousands of tonnes per year dropped between 2017 and 2019. The rapid decline is attributed to enhanced international efforts in eastern China and other regions, preventing a substantial delay in ozone layer recovery.
Research reveals why plant diversity is so important for bee diversity
A study by researchers at the University of Sussex found that bumble bees dominate on certain flower species due to their energy efficiency, while honey bees thrive on others. The study analyzed the behavior of over 1000 bees and found that a bee's bodyweight and rate of visiting flowers determine its energy efficiency.
Physicists have optimized the method of smelting the MAX phase
Researchers from Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University develop an optimized arc melting technique to produce highly pure MAX-phases with controlled stoichiometry and pressure. This leads to increased manganese incorporation and reduced side phases, crucial for fundamental understanding of MAX-phase magnetism.
Study reveals platinum's role in clean fuel conversion
Researchers uncovered dynamic details of a platinum-based catalyst's active site, resolving earlier conflicting reports. They found that only certain platinum atoms play an important role in the chemical conversion, which may lead to designing more efficient and cost-effective catalysts.
Endovascular aneurysm repair linked to higher readmission rates
A study found EVAR has a lower hospital mortality rate but a higher readmission rate compared to traditional open repair for ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms. Researchers identified additional risk factors specific to EVAR, including prior EVAR repair and chronic kidney disease.
Discovery of a new law of phase separation
Researchers at The University of Tokyo found that slow dynamics of complex networks control the rate of demixing in phase separation. This discovery may lead to advances in devices like rechargeable batteries and catalysts.
SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 10, 2021
'Gamechanger' drug for treating obesity cuts body weight by 20%
A new drug, semaglutide, has been shown to cut body weight by 20% in a major global study involving over 1,900 participants. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that three quarters of people who received the drug lost more than 10% of their body weight.
Stable armchairlike hexazine N6 ring in tungsten hexanitride
Researchers have successfully created a stable armchair-like hexazine N6 ring in tungsten hexanitride under high-pressure conditions. The compound, WN6, exhibits exceptional hardness and toughness, making it a promising candidate for high-energy-density materials.
Infectious disease causes long-term changes to frog's microbiome
A recent study found that a specific fungus infecting frogs disrupts their skin microbiome, leading to long-term changes. The frog's microbiome fails to recover even after the infection is cured, highlighting the need for further research on microbiome dynamics and disease resistance.
Caution: 1918 influenza provides warning for potential future pandemic reemergence
Research from Michigan State University identifies four distinct waves of the 1918 flu virus, similar to the COVID-19 pandemic. The study reveals that a spike in cases may occur late 2021 or early 2022 due to remaining susceptible individuals and lack of vaccination.
Object transparency reduces human perception of three-dimensional shapes
Researchers discovered that transparent materials are perceived as flatter than actual thickness, contrary to metallic or glossy surfaces. The study used a computational model to predict image cues contributing to judgment errors and identified regional variations in local luminance contrast as the key factor.
Researchers release analysis of largest, most diverse genetic data set
The study analyzed over 53,000 individuals from minority populations, providing new genetic insights into heart, lung, blood, and sleep disorders. The research aims to improve diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of common conditions leading to disability or death.
Lipid epoxides target pain, inflammatory pathways in neurons
Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered modified compounds called epo-NA5HT and epo-NADA that target multiple cannabinoid receptors, interrupting pain and inflammation pathways. These lipid epoxides are much more potent than their precursor molecules and offer a promising alternative to opioid-based painkillers.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 10, 2021
The science of siestas: New research reveals the genetic basis for daytime napping
Researchers identified three mechanisms that promote napping and found many genes also regulate sleep. The study linked napping to cardiometabolic health concerns, suggesting personalized recommendations may be needed.
Stanford model accounts for behavioral changes during epidemics
The Stanford model describes a complex interplay between individual incentives and government policies in response to epidemics. It predicts waves of infection surges, reactionary social change, and perpetual cycling if short-term thinking is not considered in epidemic response.
Pre-COVID subway air polluted from DC to Boston, but New York region's is the worst
A new study by NYU Langone Health found that New York City's subway system has the highest airborne particle concentration, with some stations reaching up to 77 times the typical outdoor air quality. The study measured air quality in 71 stations across four cities and found that even cleaner neighborhoods struggle with pollutants.
SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateFeb 10, 2021
The therapeutic potential of peptides
Researchers are harnessing the power of peptides to develop new therapeutics, leveraging vast libraries and animal venom to discover novel leads. Recent studies have shown promising results in pain relief and biopesticides, highlighting the potential for peptides to revolutionize the pharmaceutical landscape.
Researchers find broad impacts from political polarization
Political polarization affects consumer welfare by influencing financial decisions, relationships are hindered by polarization, and health suffers due to social isolation. Societal interests also suffer as individuals prioritize their party affiliation over evidence-based decision-making.
A new way to look for life-sustaining planets
An international team of astronomers has developed a new system to directly image exoplanets in the habitable zone of nearby stars, potentially harboring life. Using mid-infrared imaging and adaptive optics, they captured images of planets about three times the size of Earth within habitable zones around Alpha Centauri A and B.
The role of nanobacteria in the organic matter cycle in freshwater systems
Researchers investigated the taxonomic composition and functional characteristics of filtrable freshwater organisms using radioisotope tracers and metabolomics. The study found that nanobacteria play a minor role in processing dissolved organic carbon, with limited time to uptake matter in rivers and streams.
Russian scientists significantly improved coal-burning efficiency
Researchers developed a new approach to modifying coal combustion behavior, reducing unburnt carbon in ash residue and CO content in gaseous products. The method uses copper salts to intensify combustion and reduce emissions, improving fuel efficiency and minimizing energy use.
SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalFuel Processing Technology·DateFeb 10, 2021