Space-bound clocks to detect dark matter
A new proposal aims to detect ultralight dark matter using atomic clocks in space. The clocks will track changes in energy oscillations caused by dark matter, allowing researchers to measure its presence.
Science News Archive 2022
Browse by Month - 2022
Page 27 of 448
PepSeq provides massive platform for antibody analyses
Researchers have developed a massive platform called PepSeq for analyzing antibody responses, which can track hundreds of thousands of protein building blocks. The technology has been used to analyze COVID-19 antibodies and shows promise as a surveillance tool for detecting animal viruses in humans.
Immune system irregularities found in women with postpartum mood disorders
Researchers found that women experiencing prolonged mental health issues after childbirth had genetic evidence of higher immune system defense mechanism activation. The study also identified reduced antiviral immune response genes, which may offer protection from pathogens.
City of Hope’s new findings could accelerate research and development of new treatments
Researchers from City of Hope identified how a protein receptor targeted by 33% of all federally approved medications works. This discovery could facilitate pharmaceutical research and lead to the creation of innovative medicines with fewer side effects.
NSF funds sixth annual tissue engineering solicitation for research leveraging the ISS National Lab
The NSF is funding projects that utilize the International Space Station (ISS) National Laboratory to advance tissue engineering and mechanobiology research. This solicitation aims to further drug discovery and therapeutic development through space-based research, with potential impacts on regenerative medicine and disease diagnosis.
Giant mantle plume reveals Mars is more active than previously thought
Scientists from the University of Arizona have discovered a giant active mantle plume pushing the surface of Mars upward, causing earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The finding suggests that Mars' deceptively quiet surface may hide a more tumultuous interior than previously thought.
Researchers develop intelligent segment routing scheme for network management
A team of researchers proposes an intelligent routing scheme to optimize link load balancing in software-defined networks, achieving significant performance improvements. Their algorithms outperform traditional methods, reducing maximum bandwidth by 24.6 percent in real-world topologies.
Not all micronutrients created equal: Study identifies some supplements that benefit cardiovascular health
A meta-analysis of over 884 studies found that certain micronutrients can benefit cardiovascular health, including omega-3 fatty acids, folic acid, and CoQ10. These supplements have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and mortality.
Food: climate change exacerbates the gap between North and South of the Mediterranean
A study by Marta Antonelli and colleagues highlights the pressing challenges in the Mediterranean region, including worsening water scarcity, biodiversity loss, and nutritional imbalances. The gap between North and South countries is expected to grow, with climate change exacerbating environmental pressures and threatening food security.
Fitbit, Apple watch screening for faulty heart rhythms needs more study
The use of smartwatches to screen for faulty heart rhythms needs more evaluation, according to a cardiologist. Smartwatch detection of AF can often point to cases of the disorder, but substantial work is needed to integrate this consumer-received information into optimized care. Recent studies have reported low rates of irregular heart...
Suicide attempts and bullying highest for sexual minority and female adolescents
Research highlights bullying as a significant concern for adolescent LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly females. Findings show rising trends in bullying and suicidal behavior across demographic subgroups of US adolescents.
Dramatic change in proportion of the Canadian population with SARS-CoV-2 antibody over the first 2.5 years of pandemic
A large study found that most Canadian children and adults younger than 60 had been exposed to SARS-CoV-2 through a combination of vaccination and infection. The study, conducted in British Columbia, shows a dramatic change in the proportion of the population with antibodies over the first 2.5 years of the pandemic.
What does a diffuse midline glioma look like?
A study using spatial single-cell transcriptomics reveals the spatial organization of cancer cells in patient tissues across ages and locations. The research highlights age- and location-dependent differences in tumor biology, suggesting that kids and adults with diffuse midline gliomas may need different treatments.
Immunotherapy eliminates disease-causing cells in mice with MS-like disease
Researchers have developed a CAR-T therapy approach that effectively targets and eliminates rogue immune cells responsible for autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis. The treatment shows promise as a potential cure for debilitating conditions.
Researchers solve pre-harvest sprouting in rice and wheat
A recent study reveals that the SD6/ICE2 molecular module regulates seed dormancy in rice, controlling abscisic acid homeostasis. By editing this gene, researchers improved pre-harvest sprouting resistance in both rice and wheat, offering a promising strategy for improving crop yields.
Michigan bee study: Both habitat quality and biodiversity can impact bee health
A new analysis of Michigan bees reveals that both high-quality habitats and diverse species communities can positively impact bee health by reducing common viral pathogens. However, the researchers also found that improving habitat quality features like floral density may not necessarily benefit pollinator health.
In negotiations, hoodwinking others has a cost, study finds
A study by Alex Van Zant and colleagues found that sellers who lied during financial negotiations felt less satisfied with the outcome and more guilty than those who were honest. The researchers also discovered that having a greater incentive to lie did not reduce feelings of guilt, but rather increased them.
Durham University scientist decrypts the ‘mechanical code’ of DNA
A new study has deciphered the mechanical code of DNA, revealing previously unknown ways in which nature encodes biological information. Researchers used a next-generation technology to show that local sequence determines local bendability of DNA.
New findings on neuronal activities in the sensorimotor cortex
The study found conserved structures of neuronal activity in the sensorimotor cortex of freely moving rats, revealing a clear gradient for contralateral bias. This breakthrough helps understand brain control of movements under natural conditions and enables further development of neuroprosthetic devices.
Off-patent liver disease drug could prevent COVID-19 infection and protect against future variants
Researchers identify an off-patent liver disease drug that can prevent SARS-CoV-2 entry into cells, potentially offering protection against future variants. The study used a unique combination of 'mini-organs', animal studies, and human subjects to demonstrate the drug's effectiveness.
New manufacturing process produces better, cheaper cathodes for lithium-ion batteries
Researchers at ORNL developed a cleaner, more efficient method for making high-capacity cathode material without cobalt. The new hydrothermal synthesis approach reduces environmental impact and increases production speed.
Care home nurses still need support to recover from Covid trauma, research shows
Research by University of East Anglia reveals care home nurses were unprepared for the pandemic, impacting their mental health and wellbeing. The study suggests implementing a mental health and wellbeing strategy is crucial to promote recovery from trauma and moral distress.
Two-billion-year-old enzyme reconstructed
Researchers successfully reconstructed a two-billion-year-old enzyme, shedding light on an ancient evolutionary mechanism that enables modern enzymes to work efficiently despite interruptions. The study reveals the ancestral enzyme is processive, removing correctly added nucleotide building blocks, and shows how bioinformatics and bioc...
University of Missouri researchers design new heart health wearable
Researchers at the University of Missouri are developing a wearable heart monitor using a breathable material with antibacterial and antiviral properties. The device will track heart health via dual signals, providing continuous monitoring for early detection of heart disease.
Short-lived ice streams
Researchers used high-resolution radar systems to reconstruct past ice streams in Greenland, revealing they can 'shut down' rapidly. This insight offers new information on the future behavior of ice streams and how it affects sea-level rise predictions.
Real-world laboratories for building towards ocean solutions
The use of real-world laboratories can facilitate knowledge exchange between science and society, enabling the development of participatory research approaches to address the complex challenges facing our oceans. By involving all relevant stakeholders in co-designing research questions and testing potential strategies, these labs have ...
New quantum dots study uncovers implications for biological imaging
Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago synthesized semiconductor quantum dots with extended radiative lifetimes and spatially localized electrons, enabling new applications in optics and time-gated single-particle imaging. The study's findings hold promise for energy-efficient displays and biomedical research.
Using hearing aids decreases the risk of cognitive decline by 20%, a NUS Medicine study
A new study published in JAMA Neurology found that using hearing aids can decrease the risk of cognitive decline by 20%. The study, conducted by researchers at NUS Medicine, analyzed data from over 130,000 participants and found a significant association between hearing aid use and reduced cognitive decline. The findings suggest that t...
Study shows the majority of California’s coastal airports are vulnerable to increased flooding caused by climate change
A new study found that 39 out of 43 California's coastal airports have assets exposed to projected flooding by 2100. Sixteen airports have assets within their boundaries, while 23 have assets outside their jurisdiction at risk from flooding. The study highlights the need for collaborative climate adaptation plans to address this issue.
What does Polly say? Community science data reveal species differences in vocal learning by parrots
A study of parrot vocal learning reveals species-specific differences in mimicking human speech, with some birds using words in context. Researchers also found that age and sex are weak predictors of vocal mimicry, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts for these complex communicators.
Whole-grain food consumption impacted by consumer skepticism and lack of labeling standard
A new study found that consumer skepticism about whole-grain food labels contributes to low intake globally. Consumers prefer clear, straightforward labeling on product names rather than generic claims.
Transcriptomic technique may help identify infections after knee and hip replacement
A new study suggests that a transcriptomic technique can help distinguish between infections and non-infectious causes of complications following knee and hip replacement surgery. The technique uses RNA sequencing to determine which genes are expressed and identifies specific immune cell types involved in the response to infection.
HIV ‘drug factory’ implant promises once-a-year therapy
Rice University researchers are developing implants that can produce and deliver monoclonal anti-HIV antibody therapeutics for at least a year. The project aims to reduce the cost and improve the logistics of HIV treatment, making it more accessible and beneficial for patients worldwide.
Association between consumption of ultraprocessed foods, cognitive decline
Researchers found a strong association between consuming more ultraprocessed foods and cognitive decline in adults. The study, which included over 10,700 participants, suggests that limiting such food intake may support current public health recommendations to protect cognitive function.
How to edit the genes of nature’s master manipulators
Researchers have created a method to edit the genomes of bacteriophages, viruses that infect bacteria, using CRISPR technology. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize the control of microbiomes and treat dangerous drug-resistant infections.
Myopericarditis after COVID-19 mRNA vaccination among adolescents, young adults
A systematic review of 23 studies found COVID-19 mRNA vaccine-associated myopericarditis is rare in adolescents and young adults with a low incidence rate. The condition generally has favorable early outcomes, but continued follow-up is recommended.
NUS researchers developed a new cancer testing method that makes regular monitoring affordable
NUS researchers have developed a low-cost, non-invasive cancer testing method that sequences clinical samples heated to isolate cancer-specific signatures in patient blood. The Heatrich-BS assay has high sensitivity comparable to gold standard CT scans and costs around US$35 from start to finish.
The first complete picture of Arctic sea ice freeze-thaw cycle highlights sea ice response to climate change
Researchers synthesized multisource data to explore spatiotemporal variations of melt/freeze onsets, revealing a 3-month delay in basal freeze onset compared to surface. The study highlights the importance of synchronous monitoring of air-ice-ocean system and suggests a possible delay in Arctic sea ice loss due to climate change.
RCSI research explains how our body clock influences vaccine responses
A new study by RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences found that the circadian body clock influences immune responses to vaccines. The research discovered that the shape of mitochondria in dendritic cells changes throughout the day, impacting their ability to break down vaccines.
A new, unique covalent organic framework for use in drug delivery and clean energy
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have developed a unique 3D COF with scu-c topology, exhibiting efficient gas adsorption and drug delivery capabilities. The material has been shown to exhibit excellent hydrogen and methane adsorption properties.
Galectin-3-centered paracrine network mediates cardiac inflammation and fibrosis upon β-adrenergic insult
Researchers found galectin-3 upregulation in macrophages following cardiomyocyte-derived IL-18, promoting cardiac inflammation cascades and fibrosis. A galectin-3 inhibitor effectively blocks cardiac injury one day after β-adrenergic insult.
Cerebral palsy doesn't cause death in adults, so why is it still listed as an underlying cause?
A study found that over 25,000 adult deaths in the US between 1999 and 2019 listed cerebral palsy as the underlying cause, often paired with respiratory illness. The incorrect labeling hinders understanding of how cerebral palsy interacts with other conditions.
Household air cleaners improve heart health among individuals with COPD, researchers find
Researchers found that using portable home air purifiers improved markers of cardiovascular health in people with COPD. The study tracked participants' lung and heart health over six months, revealing a 25% increase in heart rate variability among those using active HEPA and carbon filters.
Cosmic ray counts hidden in spacecraft data highlight influence of solar cycle at Mars and Venus
A study published in the Astrophysical Journal reveals a strong correlation between cosmic ray counts and the solar cycle at Mars and Venus. The research found that cosmic rays are suppressed during peak solar activity, highlighting the importance of understanding these interactions for future robotic missions and human exploration.
Guiding conservation with local touch
A group of biologists is exploring the potential of seed banks, frozen zoos, gene editing, and assisted gene flow to create second chances for species affected by climate change. By understanding local adaptation strategies, conservationists can design more effective conservation actions.
Sex, racial, ethnic representation in COVID-19 clinical trials
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 122 US-based COVID-19 clinical trials found female participants were underrepresented in treatment trials, while Asian and Black participants were underrepresented in prevention trials. Hispanic or Latino participants were overrepresented in treatment trials.
New research award added to $24 million grant to foster diversity in clinical trial research
The American Heart Association has added a new $4 million grant to its $24 million Strategically-Focused Research Network (SFRN) on the Science of Diversity in Clinical Trials. The new center, led by researchers at Johns Hopkins University and Morgan State University, aims to identify ways to increase participation and recruitment of p...
Why synonymous mutations are not always silent
Researchers modeled how genetic changes affecting protein synthesis speed can lead to misfolding and altered activity levels in proteins. This finding suggests the importance of kinetics alongside sequence for determining protein structure and function, with potential implications for fields such as biopharmaceutics and medicine.
The Southern Hemisphere is stormier than the Northern, and we finally know why
The Southern Hemisphere is stormier than the Northern due to ocean circulation and mountain ranges in the Northern Hemisphere. Since the 1980s, storminess has increased in the Southern Hemisphere, while the Northern Hemisphere has seen negligible changes.
Finding better ways to measure cognitive change in people with intellectual disability
Researchers found that the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery is a promising option for measuring cognitive change in people with intellectual disability. The study shows that the test is sensitive to developmental changes in children, teens, and young adults, which can help guide effective interventions.
X-rays reveal elusive chemistry for better EV batteries
Researchers at Brookhaven Lab and PNNL develop a new method to study the solid-electrolyte interphase in lithium metal batteries, revealing its convoluted chemistry. The team's findings provide a foundation for building more effective battery cells with higher energy density.
Aging in the eye predicts risk for kidney failure
Researchers found that a one-year increase in retinal age was associated with a 10% higher risk of incident kidney failure over 11 years. Retinal age gap, a non-invasive biomarker based on retinal imaging, may help identify people at elevated risk for kidney failure.
Can a playlist be your therapist? Balancing emotions through music #ASA183
A new app uses customized playlists to console, relax, and uplift users, aiming to improve emotional states. The app's creators found that relaxing and uplifting methods can significantly move listeners from negative to more positive emotional states.
Tailored approach makes inroads in rural firearm safe storage
A new study presents early data from an online prevention strategy aimed at reducing the risk of firearm injury and death in rural areas. The effort tailors messages about safe firearm storage and teen firearm suicide to a rural audience, with strong engagement reported by 86% of parents.
Financial incentives boost weight-loss programs
A new study shows that paying cash to people with obesity for losing a specific amount of weight works better than offering free tools like weight-loss programs and wearable fitness trackers. Incentives tied to actual weight lost were most effective in the short term, while goal-focused financial rewards performed better in the long run.
Trial to test whether drug that targets gut bacteria can improve irritability in teenagers with autism
A new 16-week trial will test whether a medication that targets gut bacteria can improve irritability in teenagers with autism spectrum disorder. The study aims to reduce the entry of certain substances produced by gut bacteria into the brain via the bloodstream, potentially reducing traits of irritability and anxiety.
Scientists invent pioneering technique to construct rare molecules discovered in sediments from the Bahamas with potential to help treat disease and infection
Researchers at the University of Bristol have created a new technique to construct rare molecules found in Bahamian sediments, which could lead to cheaper and more accessible treatments for diseases. The breakthrough reduces the production time of these complex molecules from over 20 steps to just 14.
Children are ditching alcohol for marijuana, as 20-year national US study shows a 245% increase
A national US study found a 245% increase in child marijuana abuse and a decline in alcohol abuse over the past 20 years. The study tracked intentional misuse and abuse reported to the National Poison Data System from 2000 to 2020, revealing over 338,000 instances of child abuse or misuse.
Understanding the cryptic role fungi play in ecosystems
Researchers analyzed over 4,500 documents to understand fungal dispersal across spatial scales. They identified four scales of movement, from microscopic to landscape, and found that climate change affects where fungi reside. More data is needed to understand the biodiversity of fungi and their movement in ecosystems.
Small fish could play big role in fight against malnutrition
Research published in Nature Food suggests that small pelagic fish like herring and sardines are abundant and affordable sources of nutrients, particularly selenium, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc. The study found that these fish could help close nutritional gaps in sub-Saharan Africa and other low- and middle-income countries.