Mortality and social support
A study of US adults found that those who received more social support than they gave had a higher mortality risk. Individuals who gave excessive social support also exhibited a higher risk of death.
Science News Archive June 2021
Page 41 of 51
Non-invasive sensor shows correlation between blood pressure and intracranial pressure
Researchers discovered a link between chronic high blood pressure and elevated intracranial pressure, validating a non-invasive monitoring method. The study proposes treating high blood pressure with losartan to prevent intracranial hypertension and its complications like stroke.
The genetic structures of closely related dragonflies in Yaeyama and Taiwan islands
A recent study found that dragonflies from the Yaeyama and Taiwan islands, despite being geographically close, have higher genetic diversity than expected due to island fragmentation. This discovery suggests that historical dispersal events may have influenced genetic exchange between islands.
Football and team handball training may increase health span and, ultimately, lifespan
A Danish-Swedish study found that football and team handball training have a positive effect on telomere length and mitochondrial function in women, potentially increasing their health span and lifespan. The research involved 129 healthy women and showed that elite football players had longer telomeres compared to untrained controls.
Controlling insulin production with a smartwatch
Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a molecular switch that can be activated by green light from a smartwatch, producing insulin or other substances. The system uses HEK 293 cells and is linked to a gene network, which can be configured to produce specific substances.
Indigenous peoples were stewards of the Western Amazon
New study finds no evidence of widespread forest clearing by Indigenous populations in western Amazonia before European arrival. Instead, researchers suggest a history of sustainable use and minimal impact on ecosystem biodiversity.
Oncotarget: Infiltration in human skin squamous-cell carcinoma
Researchers analyzed 36 patients with skin squamous-cell carcinoma, finding that CD8+ T cells infiltrated tumors with lymphatic endothelial cells. Perineural infiltrated sSCC without metastasis showed low lymphatic endothelial cell density, suggesting a link to tumor microenvironment biology.
Largest-ever pre-adolescent brain activation study reveals cognitive function maps
A new study provides valuable information on the cognitive processes and brain systems underlying adolescent development. The data from the largest longitudinal neuroimaging study to date reveals which brain regions are involved in key psychological processes, including cognitive control, reward processing, and social/emotional function.
Climate change a bigger threat to landscape biodiversity than emerald ash borer
Research suggests climate change will have a larger and more widespread impact on landscapes than the emerald ash borer. The model showed that climatic changes, such as warmer temperatures and droughts, would lead to a shift in tree composition from northern to southern hardwoods.
Monoclonal antibody prevents HIV infection in monkeys, study finds
A lab-made monoclonal antibody, leronlimab, has been shown to completely prevent nonhuman primates from being infected with the monkey form of HIV. The results inform a future human clinical trial evaluating leronlimab as a potential pre-exposure prophylaxis therapy.
Correcting misperceptions about, and increasing empathy for, migrants
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania found that Americans dramatically overestimate the number of migrants affiliated with gangs and children being trafficked. Researchers developed interventions to address this misinformation and increase empathy, resulting in improved attitudes toward immigrants.
Mice fathers pass down stress responses to offspring via sperm
New research reveals that stressed male mice can pass on their stress behaviors to their offspring through changes in the sperm's genetic code. This finding indicates that sperm transmits short-term environmental information to offspring, influencing their stress responses.
Procedure using ultrasound energy found to treat high blood pressure
A global multicentre clinical trial found that a one-hour ultrasound-based procedure called 'renal denervation' significantly reduced blood pressure in resistant hypertension patients. The study, published in The Lancet, suggests this procedure could offer hope to patients who do not respond to recommended treatments.
Chip mimicking bovine endometrium used in study of factors that can jeopardize pregnancy
The device was used to culture two maternal endometrial cell types, revealing the effects of glucose and insulin level alterations on uterine environment. High levels of glucose altered protein expression and secretion, while insulin changes triggered quantitative changes in protein secretion without significant gene transcription.
Fruit fly links sleep problems in autism to glial cells, blood-brain-barrier and serotonin
Researchers link sleep problems in autism to glial cells, blood-brain barrier, and serotonin, finding that high levels of serotonin cause sleep fragmentation. The study suggests a potential treatment for adults with autism-related sleep disorders.
Andrea Caggese obtains a grant from the European Investment Bank Institute
The project aims to investigate the factors that explain links between technological progress, technology diffusion, and market results. It will also analyze the impact of government policies on private investment and long-term growth.
New potential therapy for fatty liver disease
Researchers have found that leptin can help mobilize extra fat in the liver, reversing conditions like nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in patients with partial lipodystrophy and/or low leptin levels. Leptin therapy showed promise in improving insulin sensitivity and body weight.
Feedback on cafeteria purchases helps employees make healthier food choices
A randomized clinical trial tested an automated, personalized intervention to improve health in hospital staff, finding that employees who received feedback on their cafeteria purchases made healthier choices. The study's results suggest that food purchasing data can be leveraged for delivering health promotion interventions at scale.
SMART researchers develop method for rapid, accurate detection of viruses
Researchers developed RADICA, a molecular rapid testing methodology for detecting viral nucleic acids in 40-60 minutes. The method has been tested on SARS-CoV-2 synthetic DNA/RNA and Epstein-Barr virus and shows high sensitivity and specificity.
DFG extends funding for CRCs at University and University Medical Center G
The German Research Foundation has extended funding for two Göttingen Collaborative Research Centres, CRC 1073 and CRC 1286, to further their research on atomic scale control of energy conversion and quantitative synaptology. The CRCs will receive around ten million euros per year over four years.
Efficient metal-free near-infrared phosphorescence films
Researchers in China developed new NIR dyes based on the energy gap law, achieving efficient near-infrared phosphorescence without metals. The dyes demonstrated moderate to high performance, with TBPB@PVA films showing the best results.
Arctic rotifer lives after 24,000 years in a frozen state
Researchers found that Bdelloid rotifers can persist for at least 24,000 years in the Siberian permafrost and survive. The study suggests that these tiny animals have a mechanism to shield their cells and organs from harm at extremely low temperatures.
Space travel weakens our immune systems: Now scientists may know why
Researchers found that space travel perturbs human physiology, leading to weaker immune responses and increased susceptibility to infections. The study suggests that T regulator cells (Tregs) play a key role in the weakening of an astronaut's immune system during space travel.
Targeted COVID-19 therapy: What can we learn from autoimmune kidney diseases?
Researchers found that antiphospholipid antibodies bind to a specific complex in the body, triggering an autoimmune response that can lead to severe inflammation and organ damage. The study suggests that immunomodulatory therapies used for autoimmune diseases like SLE may also be effective in treating COVID-19.
Sea snakes show their sensitive side to court potential mates
Researchers discovered larger touch receptors on male turtle-headed sea snakes, potentially sensing vibrations made by swimming mates, prey or predators. These receptors may help males orient towards the female's direction during mating.
Are heavy metals toxic? Scientists find surprising new clues in yeast
Researchers have compiled the most complete library yet of lanthanides and their potential toxicity by exposing baker's yeast to lanthanide metals. The study found that lanthanides interrupt cell-signaling pathways, disrupting calcium-binding sites in endocytosis and ESCRT machinery.
New research in protein sequencing poised to transform medicine
A new overview article explores innovative strategies for protein sequencing at the single-cell and single-molecule level, enabling critical insights into cell-to-cell variation in organs and tissues. This breakthrough may lead to routine clinical applications for diagnostic and treatment purposes, fulfilling personalized medicine.
Study suggests no link between antiseizure drugs used in pregnancy and cognitive problems in babies
A large research project found that children of women with epilepsy who took antiseizure medication during pregnancy have similar cognitive outcomes at age 2 as those born to healthy women. However, higher levels of medication were linked to lower scores on motor and general adaptive tests related to self-care.
University of Tartu and Tilde take Estonian machine translation to a new level
The University of Tartu and Tilde are developing a cutting-edge machine translation platform to advance Estonian translation capabilities. The project aims to create practical tools for public institutions, translation agencies, and developers, leveraging new approaches like modular transformer-type neural networks.
Improved method for generating synthetic data solves major privacy issues in research
Aalto University researchers have developed a machine learning-based method to produce synthetic data that preserves privacy and can be used for statistical analyses. The new method solves a major problem with existing methods, enabling researchers to share sensitive information without compromising individual identities.
Stabilizing gassy electrolytes could make ultra-low temperature batteries safer
A new separator developed by nanoengineers at the University of California San Diego traps gas molecules to stabilize volatile electrolytes, preventing swelling and explosions. The separator boosts battery performance at ultra-low temperatures, with cells operating at 500 milliamp-hours per gram at -40 C.
New single-atom catalysis boots reductive amination reaction
Researchers developed Ru1/NC SAC, showcasing improved catalytic activity and selectivity in reductive amination reactions. The single-atom dispersion and coordination environment play crucial roles in determining the catalytic performance.
Spread of misinformation about face masks, COVID-19 by automated software on Facebook
Researchers analyzed Facebook conversations to explore automated misinformation about face masks and COVID-19. The study found that Facebook's automated software spread false information on public groups, highlighting the need for fact-checking measures.
Wider applications for Vortex Fluidic Device
Researchers have discovered the VFD's capabilities in controlling chemical reactivity, materials processing, and probing self-organised systems. The device has shown promise in synthesizing various compounds and could lead to more efficient and environmentally friendly production methods.
High caffeine consumption may be associated with increased risk of blinding eye disease
A large-scale study found that high caffeine intake may increase the risk of glaucoma by three-fold in individuals with a strong family history. Caffeine consumption above 480mg daily was associated with higher intraocular pressure and increased glaucoma prevalence.
ALPALGA: The search for mountain snow microalgae
Researchers have established the first map of snow microalgae distribution along elevation, revealing different species thrive at varying altitudes. The study aims to answer fundamental questions about these organisms' survival, blooms, and impact on snowmelt.
Exploring an epidemic's meaning from the perspective of nursing
An article by Julie A. Fairman, PhD, RN, FAAN, explores the meaning of epidemics from a nursing perspective, extending Charles Rosenberg's 1992 work on the AIDS epidemic. This approach highlights the importance of understanding the social constructs and meanings attached to epidemics through the experiences of nurses and patients.
High blood lead levels found in indigenous peoples in Peruvian Amazonia
A study published in Environment International found high levels of lead in indigenous people living in Peruvian Amazonia, with the highest concentrations found near oil extraction areas. The research, led by Cristina O'Callaghan-Gordo, highlights the need for urgent action to address the potential health effects on these communities.
Snowflake morays can feed on land, swallow prey without water
A new study shows that snowflake morays can grab and swallow prey on land thanks to an extra set of jaws in their throats, allowing them to utilize different environments for food resources. This unique feeding mechanism enables at least one species of moray to feed on land without relying on water.
Fragility fractures cost European health care systems €56.9 billion annually
A new report by the International Osteoporosis Foundation reveals that fragility fractures result in 4.3 million cases and €56.9 billion in healthcare costs each year in Europe. The report also highlights significant service provision gaps, with only half of women at high fracture risk receiving therapy for osteoporosis.
Puerto Rico is prone to more flooding than the island is prepared to handle
A new study shows Puerto Rico's capacity to produce record-breaking floods and landslides, highlighting the need for adaptation in planning tools. The island's limited water storage capacity is exacerbated by sediment infilling reservoirs, leading to water scarcity.
Being social generates larger genomes in snapping shrimp
A study by Columbia University researchers found that eusocial snapping shrimp have larger genomes due to an accumulation of 'jumping' genes called transposable elements. This discovery has significant implications for understanding the relationship between genome evolution and social behavior in various species, including humans.
New drug-formulation method may lead to smaller pills
A team of MIT chemical engineers has developed a new method for incorporating hydrophobic drugs into tablets or other formulations, which allows for higher drug loading and potentially smaller dosages. This could lead to improved patient compliance and effectiveness, especially for people who have difficulty swallowing pills.
Clever biomolecular labelling enables identification of immune cells
Researchers at the University of Göttingen have developed a non-toxic method to label peptides and investigate their mechanism of action. The new technique allows for efficient screening of molecules important for the adaptive immune system, which can help fight infections and cancer.
A breakthrough in the physics of blood clotting
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University have made a significant discovery in the physics of blood clotting. By modeling the dynamics of clot contraction, they found that platelets work best when not in total sync with each other, leading to a 90% decrease in clot volume.
Two-thirds of women don't meet criteria to discontinue cervical cancer screening
A recent study found that fewer than one in three women aged 64 to 66 met the criteria to discontinue cervical cancer screening. The majority of women in this age group may be at risk for cervical cancer due to inadequate screening or preexisting high-risk conditions.
Anthropogenic forest use in pre-Columbian Peru
A study analyzing charcoal and phytolith records in northeastern Peru suggests that indigenous societies helped maintain forest integrity over the last 5,000 years. Material remains of ancient cultures, such as ceramics and stone tools, were absent from soil samples, supporting the findings.
A new hope: A novel vaccine against COVID-19 is safe and induces antibody production
A new vaccine called KCONVAC has been shown to be safe and induce antibody production in healthy Chinese adults. The phase 1 and 2 clinical trials demonstrated that the vaccine is well-tolerated and generates a robust immune response, with stronger antibody production seen when participants received their second dose four weeks apart.
Toshiba announces breakthrough in long distance quantum communication
Toshiba has demonstrated record distances for quantum communications using a novel 'dual band' stabilisation technique, enabling QKD over 600km. The technique sends two optical reference signals to minimise phase fluctuations on long fibres, resulting in constant optical phase stability even after propagation through hundreds of km.
Social inequality in energy use
Researchers analyzed fine-scale energy use data to reveal significant racial and income disparities in urban energy use. Block groups with higher poverty rates exhibit significantly higher annual energy consumption, particularly for temperature-sensitive applications.
Researchers make new charge storage mechanism discovery
Researchers at the University of Liverpool have made a groundbreaking discovery in charge storage mechanisms for calcium-air batteries. The new finding, known as trapped interfacial redox, introduces a novel mechanism that can be harnessed to create highly sustainable battery technologies.
This forest has stayed wild for 5,000 years -- we can tell because of the soil
A new study in PNAS reveals that a rainforest in the Putumayo region of Peru has been home to relatively unaltered forest for 5,000 years. Researchers found microscopic silica and charcoal in the soil, which indicate that humans coexisted with nature without altering the environment.
The latest science on staying healthy during pregnancy
Prenatal supplements may affect breast milk microbiota composition, while maternal obesity can impact child health. Physical activity during pregnancy is linked with epigenetic changes that influence offspring health.
New research examines the science behind superfoods
A new study found that consuming mangos can help lower chronic disease risk by improving fasting glucose levels and reducing inflammation. Researchers also discovered that adding herbs and spices to the diet may help lower blood pressure, while ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric supplements were linked with improved cholesterol benefits.
Postpartum mental health visits 30% higher during COVID-19 pandemic
Mental health visits for new mothers skyrocketed 30% during the COVID-19 pandemic, with increased rates observed in the first 3 months after giving birth. The study suggests that virtual care may have removed barriers to postpartum mental health support, enabling more people to seek care.
Effectiveness of 1st dose of BNT162b2 (BioNTech/Pfizer) vaccine for SARS-CoV-2 infection 13 to 24 days after immunization
A real-world study found the first dose of the BNT162b2 (BioNTech/Pfizer) vaccine to be highly effective in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection 13 to 24 days after immunization. The study revealed a significant reduction in infection rates among vaccinated individuals, highlighting the vaccine's effectiveness in real-world settings.
Cutting food waste alone won't solve world's nutritional needs
A new study using a computational model found that cutting food waste would provide enough protein and energy to feed the growing population but fall short in terms of micronutrients like calcium, iron, and vitamin E. Researchers emphasize the need for attention to essential vitamins and minerals to address global nutritional needs.
Pre-Columbian fire and water management in Bolivia
Researchers analyzed sediment cores revealing that pre-Columbian societies used controlled fires and water management techniques from at least 3,500 years ago. This predates changes caused by cattle and new technologies in the region.
First glimpse of brains retrieving mistaken memories observed
Researchers studied rats in mazes to observe brain cell activation during correct and incorrect memory recall. They found similar patterns of cell activation, but with different timing and energy levels, suggesting a link between memory disorders like Alzheimer's and faulty retrieval.
Study: Malicious bots are the primary pathogen of COVID-19 misinformation on social media
A new study reveals that malicious bots are the primary pathogen of COVID-19 misinformation on social media, amplifying false claims and conspiracies. Bots were found to spread misinformation at a rate far greater than ordinary users, leading to widespread harm to public health.