Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive June 2022 - Page 23


Page 23 of 40

Greater understanding of immune signalling molecule raises hope for improved clinical use

A detailed understanding of interleukin 2's role in the immune system has been gained through a new mouse model, enabling scientists to identify potential new uses as an immune-modulating biologic drug. This breakthrough may lead to optimized autoimmune and cancer treatment while avoiding unwanted side effects.

SourceBabraham Institute·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2022

When parenting style predicts political leanings

A new study by Carnegie Mellon University found that parenting styles are a strong indicator for how people think about social issues, including education and elder care. The results suggest that helicopter parents tend to prefer paternalistic political policies, while free-range parents tend to lean towards autonomy.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology·DateJun 14, 2022

Companies’ use of renewable energy certificates masks inaction on carbon emissions, Concordia research finds

A study published in Nature Climate Change reveals that companies purchasing renewable energy certificates (RECs) are overstating their climate mitigation claims. The researchers found that firms reported a 31% reduction in emissions, but the actual drop was only 10%, three times lower.

SourceConcordia University·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 14, 2022

Study reveals how epilepsy and migraine drug causes birth defects

A study reveals that valproic acid induces cellular senescence in neuroepithelial cells, leading to developmental defects such as spina bifida, facial alterations, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. The researchers found that a specific molecule, p19Arf, is responsible for this effect.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 14, 2022

Progress on early detection of Alzheimer’s disease

Researchers have developed a new probe to detect Alzheimer's disease biomarkers using near-infrared fluorescence, which may help diagnose the disease early and prevent its progression. The probe binds oligomeric Aβ proteins, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease, offering a potential alternative to existing treatments.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalAlzheimer s & Dementia·DateJun 14, 2022

AGA releases evidence-based principles to guide creation of national colorectal cancer screening approach

The American Gastroenterological Association has released a series of evidence-based position statements guiding the creation of a national colorectal cancer screening approach. The goal is to eliminate barriers and reduce mortality by ensuring equitable access to CRC screening programs for all individuals.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGastroenterology·DateJun 14, 2022

Molecule that combines three distinct technologies against most aggressive type of brain cancer is tested

Researchers have developed a molecule that uses nanotechnology, chemotherapy and a monoclonal antibody to target glioblastoma multiforme, the most aggressive type of brain cancer. The treatment showed promise in isolated cells and animal models, with significant reductions in tumor volume and no increased toxicity.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalInternational Journal of Pharmaceutics·DateJun 14, 2022

Short-term and oncological outcomes of natural orifice specimen extraction surgery (NOSES) for colorectal cancer in China: a national database study of 5055 patients

A nationwide large-scale study confirms the safety and feasibility of NOSES for CRC, with a low postoperative complication rate and good long-term oncological outcomes. NOSES also presents advantages in postoperative recovery, such as earlier flatus time and shorter hospital stay compared to traditional colon surgery.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·DateJun 14, 2022

Researchers reveal receptor-specific recognition modes of neuropeptide Y

A team of researchers has determined the cryo-electron microscopy structures of three NPY receptors in complex with the peptide ligand and Gi protein. The study reveals interaction details between different NPY receptors and the peptide, highlighting distinct conformations upon binding to each receptor. This understanding is crucial fo...

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 14, 2022

Uterine transplantation is efficacious and safe

The study found that uterine transplantation is an effective method to remedy infertility, with a clinical pregnancy rate of 33% and cumulative live birth rate exceeding expectations. The procedure also showed positive health outcomes, including improved quality of life and low rates of anxiety and depression.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalFertility and Sterility·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2022

A new fast and reliable experimental model for vascular malformations leads to the identification of miransertib as a promising therapy option

Researchers have discovered a new molecular treatment effective against low-flow vascular malformations using the AKT inhibitor miransertib. The study also found that active angiogenesis is needed for malformations to occur, opening the door to preventive strategies.

SourceJosep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2022

Proving the value of a adding a full-time infection preventionist: California skilled nursing facility reports infection prevention improvements amid pandemic

A California skilled nursing facility improved hand hygiene rates, increased PPE compliance, and reduced catheter-associated urinary tract infections by hiring a dedicated infection preventionist. The team's results demonstrate the value of having a full-time IP to implement best practices and train staff.

Study explores uncertainties in flood risk estimates

A new study found that conventional methods for calculating flood risk underestimate frequencies, especially at the 100-year flood, due to neglecting unique roles of each flood type. Researchers from DRI, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and Colorado State University investigated historic floods in 308 watersheds.

SourceDesert Research Institute·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 14, 2022

Native bee key to social evolution

Researchers studied Australian native bee Amphylaeus morosus, finding it exhibits extreme reproductive skew and high relatedness, which challenges theories on social complexity. The study provides evidence that kin selection can promote worker sterility at the initial transition to social living.

SourceFlinders University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJun 14, 2022

New Chinese Medical Journal Review elucidates the association between inflammatory bowel disease and Helicobacter pylori

Researchers have found a negative correlation between Helicobacter pylori infection and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) prevalence, suggesting the bacterium may protect against IBD. This is supported by studies showing improved gut microbiota diversity and increased abundance of beneficial bacteria in H. pylori-infected individuals.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateJun 14, 2022

Gravity-defying spike waves rewrite the rule book

Scientists have found that axisymmetric 'spike waves' can exceed previously thought limits on ocean wave height, leading to significant implications for maritime safety. The new research revealed the fundamental mechanisms behind highly directional and crossing waves becoming much larger than others.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2022

Suicide rates didn’t increase during pandemic

Despite widespread concern, most research on Covid-19 and its impact on mental health found no significant increase in suicide rates globally. In low- and middle-income countries, some studies even reported a decrease in rates of suicide and self-harm following the pandemic.

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalPLOS Global Public Health·TypeSystematic review·DateJun 14, 2022

Groundbreaking study shows substantial differences in brain structure in people with anorexia

A new study by an international group of researchers has found substantial reductions in grey matter in people with anorexia nervosa, a condition characterized by severe food restriction and low body weight. Early intervention and treatment can help the brain repair itself, according to the research team led by Dr. Paul M. Thompson.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalBiological Psychiatry·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 14, 2022

‘Alternative facts’ are cons, Illinois Tech philosopher’s paper argues—and journalists can help quash them

Illinois Tech philosopher J.D. Trout argues that journalists should prioritize settled science and dismiss 'alternative facts' as cons. He suggests that reporters should not engage with disputed claims when the scientific consensus is clear, and instead promote epistemic humility and respect for expert knowledge.

SourceIllinois Institute of Technology·JournalFrontiers in Communication·DateJun 14, 2022

Researchers solve mystery surrounding dielectric properties of unique metal oxide

A University of Minnesota research team solved the long-standing mystery of strontium titanate's dielectric properties by accounting for interface effects. They achieved a dielectric constant exceeding 25,000 in epitaxial SrTiO3 films, making them suitable for applications such as electronic devices and data storage.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 13, 2022