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Science News Archive 2024 - Page 432


Page 432 of 484

Some Pre-Roman humans were buried with dogs, horses and other animals

A study of human-animal co-burials from ancient Italy suggests that the practice may have been related to enduring companion relationships or religious beliefs. Researchers found that the people buried with animals did not share common traits, leaving multiple interpretations for this phenomenon.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Research suggests tai chi outperforms conventional exercise in improving mobility and balance in seniors

A new review of 12 studies involving 2,901 participants found that tai chi was more effective than conventional exercise in improving functional mobility and balance. The study also identified specific factors, such as shorter duration and Yang-style focus, that contributed to the benefits.

A sense of touch: ASICs are the receptor for a proton synaptic messenger between Merkel cells and an afferent nerve

A study by University of Alabama at Birmingham researchers discovered that protons are the primary signals transmitting tactile sensations from Merkel cells to nerves. Protons bind to ASIC receptors on nerve endings, triggering an influx of sodium ions that propagate action potentials up the nerve towards the brain.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Wound-homing molecule accelerates tissue repair

A study published in Nature Communications reports the discovery of a wound-homing molecule called CAR peptide, which accelerates tissue repair by activating natural healing pathways. The treatment shows promise for treating various injuries, including muscle ruptures and bone fractures, without forming less functional scar tissue.

SourceTampere University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 14, 2024

State-owned firms can mitigate additional regulatory scrutiny when making foreign acquisitions by considering the social and political implications of the deal

State-owned enterprises experience greater regulatory scrutiny in foreign acquisitions, but acknowledging social and political dynamics can help temper this liability. SOEs can also work with local communities to overcome negative perception by acquiring firms through subsidiaries or committing to local employment, reducing additional ...

SourceStrategic Management Society·JournalGlobal Strategy Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2024

NTU Singapore scientists produce innovative ultrathin and stretchable electronics with wide range of applications in health and wellness

Researchers at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, have created soft electronic sensors that can detect bioelectric signals from skin, muscles, and organs. These sensors empower individuals with limb disabilities to control robotic prostheses, machinery, and motorized wheelchairs using alternative muscle movements.

Chinese Medical Journal Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine study reports a novel prognostic biomarker for lung cancer

Researchers identify a promising prognostic biomarker for lung cancer using circulating tumor DNA-based minimal residual disease detection. The study found that this method can effectively guide treatment decisions and predict recurrence risk, potentially modifying the lung cancer treatment paradigm.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalChinese Medical Journal - Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 14, 2024

A metamaterial for converting circular vibration ultrasound, capable of detecting cracks that occur in various directions inside structures such as buildings bridges and aircraft, has been developed for the first time in the world

A new metamaterial has been developed to convert circular vibration ultrasound, enabling the detection of cracks in various directions within structures. This technology is expected to improve the functionality of existing ultrasonic technologies and be used for industrial non-destructive testing and ultrasound imaging.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 14, 2024

Eminent brain injury expert narrows the gap in understanding legal complexities in cases involving persons with disorders of consciousness

A narrative review article in NeuroRehabilitation addresses the medicolegal challenges of litigating cases involving patients with disorders of consciousness. Clinicians and neurolitigators must be aware of the nuances, including terminology, assessment, prognosis, treatment, and patient rights.

SourceIOS Press·JournalNeuroRehabilitation An International Interdisciplinary Journal·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 14, 2024

Biomanufacturing using chemically synthesized sugars enables sustainable supply of sugar without competing with food

Researchers from Osaka University developed an innovative biomanufacturing technology using chemically synthesized non-natural sugars, enabling fermentation production of lactate and solving the problem of competing with food. This achievement will expand biomanufacturing and provide a sustainable raw sugar supply.

SourceOsaka University·JournalChemBioChem·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Neuronal insights: flash and freeze-fracture

Researchers at ISTA developed a novel 'Flash and Freeze-fracture' technique to analyze brain region communication. The method reveals that neurons in the medial habenula exhibit unusual behavior, contradicting general understanding, and provides insights into protein localization and synapse strengthening.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Climate change drived the emergence of West Nile virus in Europe

A study by researchers at Université libre de Bruxelles found that climate change is a significant driver of West Nile virus emergence in Europe. The virus can now be transmitted to humans through mosquitoes, posing a public health threat. Climate change is also linked to an increase in population density and the spread of the virus.

SourceUniversité libre de Bruxelles·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 14, 2024

Genetic and therapeutic landscapes in cohort of pancreatic adenocarcinomas using NGS and machine learning

A study published in Oncotarget has identified specific mutational and therapeutic landscapes of pancreatic cancer in the Russian population. By applying machine learning models to full exome individual data, researchers received personalized recommendations for targeted treatment options for each clinical case.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2024

It's award season: let's celebrate microbes in movies

A new publication provides insights into the relationship between movies and microbiology, exploring how films can educate the public about microbial concepts. The review highlights examples of movies that accurately portray scientific concepts, such as viral host recognition and epidemiology, to teach undergraduate students.

SourceUniversidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche·JournalFEMS Microbiology Letters·TypeContent analysis·DateFeb 14, 2024

Doctors quitting over stress and cost of finding suitable childcare

A BMJ survey shows that more than nine out of ten doctors have struggled to find suitable childcare for their work schedule, with many citing high costs as a major issue. The survey found that the lack of flexible and affordable childcare options is leading to stress, guilt, and even career change among doctor parents.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 14, 2024

Fight against malaria takes a step forward

Scientists at the University of California, Riverside, have identified 898 RNA-dependent proteins in the deadliest human malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum. These findings could lead to novel therapeutic targets against malaria and highlight the importance of RNAs in biological pathways in the parasite.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2024

Advancing biomedical diagnostics: Compact photoacoustic sensing instrument for breast tissue characterization

Researchers developed a compact, cost-effective PA sensing instrument for biomedical tissue diagnosis, showcasing its potential to streamline sampling processes and improve diagnostic accuracy for breast disease. The instrument successfully differentiated various tissue types based on quantitative spectral parameters.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateFeb 13, 2024

Stopping HIV in its tracks

Researchers have discovered how lenacapavir disrupts the HIV life cycle by fortifying the capsid and making it brittle. This leads to a premature breakage of the capsid, exposing the viral genetic material to the host cell cytoplasm.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournaleLife·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2024

Critical Habitats at Risk: Three-quarters of vegetation types in the Americas are under-protected

A study published in Global Ecology and Conservation found that three-quarters of vegetation types in North, Central, and South America fall below the Global Biodiversity Convention's target of 30% protection. The research highlights that over 40% of threatened bird and mammal species are mostly found in a single vegetation type.

SourceGerman Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig·JournalGlobal Ecology and Conservation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 13, 2024

A closer look at cannabis use and binge eating

A recent Drexel University study found nearly a quarter of binge eating patients have used cannabis in the past three months. Cannabis use was related to drinking patterns and problems with drinking, but not to severe eating disorder symptoms or depression.

SourceDrexel University·JournalExperimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology·DateFeb 13, 2024

Would you prefer a mammogram, MRI, or saliva on a test strip?

Researchers have developed a hand-held biosensor that can detect breast cancer biomarkers from saliva with high accuracy and efficiency. The device is portable, reusable, and cost-effective, making it an excellent choice for communities or hospitals without access to advanced technologies like MRI.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Vacuum Science & Technology B Microelectronics and Nanometer Structures Processing Measurement and Phenomena·DateFeb 13, 2024

Plant-based diet tied to improved sexual health in men treated for prostate cancer

A study of over 3,500 men with prostate cancer found that a plant-based diet significantly improved measures of sexual function, urinary health, and vitality scores. The research suggests that adding more fruits and vegetables to the diet while reducing meat and dairy can have a positive impact on quality of life.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalCancer·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 13, 2024

Hostile environment policies linked to prolonged distress in people with Black Caribbean ancestry

A new study published in The Lancet Psychiatry found a causal link between government policies and mental health decline in people with Black Caribbean heritage. The research team analyzed data from over 58,000 participants and found an increase in psychological distress after the 2014 Immigration Act and the Windrush scandal.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalThe Lancet Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 13, 2024

Joro spiders well poised to populate cities

Researchers found Joro spiders can thrive near busy roads, attacking simulated prey 59% of the time, despite slight differences in attack rates, without compromising their health or body mass. The species' ability to tolerate urban vibrations and sounds is likely a key factor in its exponential growth

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalArthropoda·DateFeb 13, 2024

Virginia Tech researchers discover that blocking an essential nutrient inhibits malaria parasite growth

Researchers at Virginia Tech found that blocking two enzymes in the malaria parasite prevents it from growing, offering a potential new way to fight the disease. The study, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, used an in vitro culture dish and discovered compounds that can inhibit parasitic growth.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 13, 2024

New assay identifies clinically relevant gene fusions in pediatric tumors more accurately and efficiently

Researchers developed a novel assay that integrates data from four fusion callers to identify disease-related gene fusions in pediatric tumors with high accuracy and efficiency. The new bioinformatics platform detected fusions, prioritized them, and custom curated downstream processes for consensus fusion calling.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2024

U of M study finds bias-based bullying amplifies emotional distress in youth with multiple marginalized social positions

A new U of M Medical School study reveals that bias-based bullying amplifies emotional distress in youth with multiple marginalized social positions, such as race, ethnicity, and LGBTQ+ status. The research analyzed over 80,000 students and found a significant reduction in emotional distress among those who experienced no bias-based bu...

SourceUniversity of Minnesota Medical School·JournalPEDIATRICS·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 13, 2024