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Science News Archive July 2022 - Page 17


Page 17 of 34

Synthetic tools conduct messages from station to station in DNA

Researchers used deactivated Cas9 proteins to target key segments of the human genome and synthetically trigger gene transcription. The study revealed that enhancers can send messages in both directions, but with a predominant regulatory mode where an enhancer tracks toward corresponding promoters.

SourceRice University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2022

Water resources to become less predictable with climate change

A new climate change study finds that water resources will become more variable and unpredictable due to declining snowpack, resulting in less reliable runoff and streamflow. This decline will have cascading impacts on ecosystems that rely on snow-based water resources, including drying out soils and increasing fire risk.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 18, 2022

High blood viscosity can predict higher risk of death in hospitalized COVID-19 patients

Hospitalized COVID-19 patients with high blood viscosity have a 60% higher death rate than those with low blood viscosity. The study suggests that checking for blood viscosity early on could help determine the best treatment course and improve outcomes.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeObservational study·DateJul 18, 2022

Did gonorrhea give us grandparents?

A new study suggests that a unique gene variant supporting cognitive health in older humans may have first emerged to protect against infectious pathogens like gonorrhea. This variant, linked to CD33, allows brain immune cells to break down damaged brain cells and amyloid plaques associated with Alzheimer's disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJul 18, 2022

New research puts your online privacy preferences to the test

A new study highlights the importance of distinguishing between consumers' intrinsic and instrumental privacy preferences when providing data-sharing options. The research found that marketers and websites should separate these two components to reduce bias in analysis and improve understanding of consumer behavior.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·TypeCase study·DateJul 18, 2022

When disaster strikes, these Americans may not be ready

A new national study found that households led by women, those with children under age 18, renters, low-income individuals, and minority groups are less likely to be minimally prepared for disasters. The researchers recommend targeting these vulnerable groups with disaster preparedness resources.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInternational Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 18, 2022

Novel multi-proton carrier complex as efficient proton conductor at high temperatures

A team of researchers from Tokyo University of Science has developed a novel multi-proton carrier complex that shows efficient proton conductivity even at high temperatures. The resulting starburst-type metal complex acts as a proton transmitter, making it 6 times more potent than individual imidazole molecules.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2022

Houston residents’ chemical exposure increased post-Hurricane Harvey, OSU study finds

A new study by Oregon State University found that Houston residents experienced a significant increase in chemical exposure after Hurricane Harvey, with 75% of chemicals detected at higher concentrations. The study used silicone wristbands to measure exposure to hazardous chemicals, including pesticides and industrial compounds.

SourceOregon State University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2022

Intelligent wireless walls for contactless in-home monitoring

A team of scientists has developed a reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) called 'Intelligent Walls' for controlling electromagnetic waves to monitor human activities remotely. The technology harnesses ambient signals and can track activities like walking, sitting, and standing with high resolution.

New study finds environmental injustice is key to decoding climate change debate

A new study from the University of Miami found that Miami's history of environmental injustice is a key factor in understanding why different groups are talking at cross-purposes about climate change. The research highlights how community histories, such as experiences of privilege or dispossession, shape opinions on climate change.

IVI kicks off first ‘Introductory Course for Biologics Development and Manufacturing’ to train 117 people from 25 LMICs on July 18

The International Vaccine Institute (IVI) has launched a two-week training course for biologics development and manufacturing, targeting low- and middle-income countries. The program aims to enhance local production of vaccines and biologics in LMICs to address vaccine inequity and global pandemic preparedness.

How does reduced gravity affect astronauts’ muscles and nerve responses? Japanese researchers answer

Researchers from Japan review the effects of reduced gravity on muscles and nerve responses, suggesting that afferent neural activity plays a key role in regulating muscle properties. They recommend exercise countermeasures such as walking with rear foot-strike landing and periodic passive stretching to prevent neuromuscular problems.

SourceDoshisha University·JournalNeuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 18, 2022

Adhesion from cold to hot

Researchers have developed a supramolecular adhesive that exhibits outstanding gluing properties across a wide range of temperatures. The new adhesive consists of a protein and crown ether component, which form a tight interlocking structure through molecular interactions, resulting in exceptional adhesion even at low temperatures.

SourceWiley·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2022

How ultrathin polymer films can be used for storage technology

Scientists from Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg discovered that precisely applied mechanical pressure can improve the electronic properties of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) films. The team used atomic force microscopy to control and reorient electrical charges in the material, enabling stable nano-scale structures with high ...

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2022

FSU team makes discovery advancing epilepsy research

A FSU team found a specific protein's gradient distribution in the brain linked to neurodegeneration in individuals with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). The discovery using area-specific tissue analysis will help researchers narrow focus for developing therapies, promoting the discovery of more effective treatments.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalJournal of Neurophysiology·DateJul 18, 2022

Researchers uncover unanticipated aspects of the genetic regulation of different brain tumors

A team at Baylor College of Medicine found that Sox9, a well-known transcription factor, affects brain tumor growth differently in various tumor types. The study revealed distinct mechanisms for regulating epigenetic patterns, which may lead to new possibilities for developing novel therapies.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2022

Clinicians who responded to recent mass shootings release recommendations for an effective healthcare response in the future

The study provides guidelines for healthcare facilities to respond effectively to mass shooting incidents. The clinicians identified the importance of modified triage plans, prioritizing patients based on anatomical considerations, and clear communication with emergency responders. By implementing these strategies, hospitals can better...

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateJul 18, 2022

Visualization of binding processes of cell-cell adhesion molecules in solution

The study reveals multiple dimeric structures of cadherins in solution, including W-, cross-, and S-shaped dimers. The researchers propose a novel conformation, the S-shaped dimer, and suggest that binding mechanism progresses through sliding motion followed by flipping motion to form stable SS-dimers.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2022

Clever COVID-19

MU researchers have identified specific mutations in the Omicron variant's spike protein that help it evade existing antibodies from vaccines or previous COVID-19 infections. These findings can inform developers of COVID-19 treatments and vaccines, which may need to target different parts of the virus to produce effective outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 18, 2022

Anti-rejection medication and immunotherapy kicks cancer and protects kidney transplants

Researchers at the University of South Australia have discovered that combining anti-rejection medication with immune checkpoint inhibitors can significantly reduce the risk of organ rejection and eliminate cancer cells in a quarter of patients. The study involved 22 patients with renal transplants and incurable locally advanced or met...

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2022

Novel SERS Method developed to capture target molecules

A team of scientists developed a new Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) method that captures target molecules in small gaps, increasing sensitivity by 2-3 orders of magnitude. The method uses a multilayer nanoparticle film with natural gaps less than 3 nm, allowing for trace dynamic detection and monitoring of biological systems.

Wistar scientists reveal new function of enzyme ADAR1 linking it to age-related diseases via a role independent of RNA-editing during aging

Researchers at The Wistar Institute discovered that the enzyme ADAR1 plays a crucial role in regulating cellular senescence and tissue aging through a mechanism independent of RNA editing. This finding may lead to new therapeutic strategies for age-related disorders, such as cancer, neurodegeneration, and cardiovascular disease.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalNature Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2022

RGB WGM lasing woven in fiber braiding cavity

Researchers achieve red-green-blue whispering gallery mode lasing with large color gamut using fiber braiding cavity. The lasing emissions cover a color gamut 86.7% larger than standard RGB space, showing great potential for compact white sources and laser display devices.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Information Sciences·DateJul 18, 2022

Six-country African study shows COVID-19 can be dangerous in pregnancy

A recent six-country African study reveals that pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 are at double the risk of ICU admission and four times the risk of dying compared to non-pregnant counterparts. The researchers emphasize the need for pregnant women to get vaccinated against COVID-19 to protect themselves and their unborn children.

SourceUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateJul 18, 2022

Biodiversity survey reveals that more species are threatened with extinction than previously thought

A new biodiversity survey found that approximately 30% of species have been globally threatened or driven extinct since 1500, according to experts from around the world. The study synthesized perspectives of thousands of biodiversity experts worldwide and highlighted significant demographic and geographic differences in their estimates.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJul 18, 2022

Plant study hints evolution may be predictable

A Yale University-led team found that a plant lineage independently evolved three similar leaf types over and over again in various mountainous regions across the neotropics. The study's findings provide evidence for 'replicated radiation,' suggesting that evolution can be predictable under certain circumstances.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJul 18, 2022

Anthropogenic monoterpenes are worsening urban ozone pollution

This study reveals that anthropogenic monoterpenes are a major contributor to urban ozone pollution, with emissions from biomass burning activities exacerbating the problem. The researchers estimate that monoterpene oxidation can provide an additional 4-9 ppb of ozone during daytime, accounting for up to 13% of total ozone production.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJul 18, 2022

Discovery of molecular signatures of immature neurons in the human brain throughout life provide new insights into brain plasticity and other functions, according to Penn Medicine researchers

A team of researchers has used advanced techniques to identify immature hippocampal neurons in significant numbers throughout the human lifespan. The findings resolve a long-running controversy over adult neurogenesis and provide insights into brain plasticity, memory, mood, behavior, and brain disorders.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 18, 2022

A new look at disordered carbon

Scientists at the University of Chicago's Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering have made significant advancements in understanding the electronic properties of amorphous carbon. By integrating quantum principles, they predicted a higher electrical conductivity than previously expected. This breakthrough has implications for applica...

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 18, 2022

Newly discovered Liexi Fauna reveals early stage of Great Ordovician Biodiversification Event

The Liexi Fauna discovery provides new evidence for the Great Ordovician Biodiversification Event, featuring a rich array of biomineralized fossils and non-mineralized tissues. The fauna reveals a flourishing Early Ordovician marine ecosystem with diverse organisms and varied lifestyles.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateJul 17, 2022

Code-free conservation

A new platform called MoveApps enables scientists and wildlife managers to explore animal movement data with little more than a device and a browser. The system uses open-source code and allows users to create complex analyses with simple clicks.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalMovement Ecology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 17, 2022

How to find 'good oil' at sea

Scientists at Flinders University have discovered a simple and effective method to extract high-value bioactives from single-cell algae oil using waste sulfur. This process can enrich saturated triglycerides, which are valuable for various applications, including biodiesel production.

SourceFlinders University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 17, 2022