Mustering a milder mustard
Researchers mapped the crystal structure of a key protein that makes metabolites responsible for the bitter taste in Brassicas. The study could be used to manipulate crop plants for nutritional and taste benefits.
Washington University in St. Louis
No more trial-and-error when choosing an electrolyte for metal-air batteries
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed a novel parameter to select electrolytes for metal-air batteries, reducing trial-and-error testing. The 'Electrochemical' Thiele Modulus measures ion transport and reaction kinetics, allowing rational development of high-performance electrolytes.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 10, 2019
Characterizing the 'arrow of time' in open quantum systems
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis compared forward and reverse trajectories of superconducting circuits called qubits, finding that they follow the second law of thermodynamics and exhibit increasing entropy.
When kinetics and thermodynamics should play together
Scientists found that kinetic factors play a crucial role in calcium carbonate formation, especially in saline environments. The researchers' study suggests that considering both thermodynamics and kinetics can lead to more accurate predictions of mineral formation rates.
Solving a condensation mystery
A new method of condensation, using lubricant-infused surfaces (LIS), has been found to promote more efficient heat transfer and droplet movement. The erratic movement of water droplets is caused by unbalanced capillary forces acting on the droplets.
Structuring sweetness: What makes Stevia 200 times sweeter than sugar
The study determined the structure of the RebA protein, which synthesizes the plant's high-intensity sweetness. The researchers found that the plant enzyme decorates a core terpene scaffold with three special sugars to create the sweetness.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2019
Trap-and-release accelerates study of swimming ciliated cells
A new method uses sound waves to trap and release single-cell green algae cells, allowing for rapid measurement of their movement. This technique accelerates the analysis of hundreds of cells in minutes, enabling researchers to study cilia dysfunction more efficiently.
Heartburn drugs linked to fatal heart and kidney disease, stomach cancer
A study by Washington University School of Medicine and Veterans Affairs St. Louis Health Care System found a 17% increased risk of death among people taking proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for up to 10 years, with deaths attributed to cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and upper gastrointestinal cancer.
A tale of two skeeters
Researchers found that sharing waters with an invasive Asian rockpool mosquito species reduces parasitism in native eastern tree-hole mosquito species, known as a dilution effect. The presence of the invasive species decreases parasite prevalence by 13-27% compared to 72-90% when kept alone.
Pregnancy shifts the daily schedule forward
A new study finds that women and mice experience changes in their daily schedules and activity levels during the first third of pregnancy. The study suggests that these changes may be related to hormonal influences and could have implications for preterm birth prevention.
New rules for lung transplants lead to unintended consequences
A new policy expanding lung transplant boundaries has led to increased costs due to longer travel distances, resulting in reduced organ availability for local donors. The study found that patients at smaller transplant programs are disadvantaged by the policy, particularly those in economically disadvantaged areas.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateApr 23, 2019
The kids are alright
Researchers found higher rates of adaptive evolution in genes involved in resource allocation, particularly in seeds and endosperm tissues. This suggests that conflicts among kin can lead to rapid evolution, supporting the idea of an evolutionary arms race within plant families.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 22, 2019
Tidying up: A new way to direct trash to autophagy
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have identified a new structural feature of living cells that aids in tidying up defective cellular material, implicated in disorders such as Huntington's and Alzheimer's diseases. The discovery could lead to new preventive or therapeutic targets for human disease.
Rusted root: Weedy rice repeatedly evolves 'cheater' root traits
Researchers found that weedy rice has evolved a root growth strategy that minimizes below-ground contact with other plants, allowing it to exploit the nutrient-sharing soil environment of rice fields. This 'cheater' root trait enables weedy rice to outcompete cultivated rice for essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorous.
'Featherweight oxygen' discovery opens window on nuclear symmetry
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have discovered and characterized oxygen-11, the lightest-ever form of oxygen with three neutrons to its eight protons. This discovery opens a new avenue for studying nuclear symmetry by comparing it to its mirror nucleus lithium-11.
Making waves: Researchers shed light on how cilia work
A team of researchers found that cilia's most efficient beating occurs at a natural length of 10-12 microns, but surprisingly lacks synchronization. The study provides insight into human cilia and defects leading to diseases such as primary ciliary dyskinesia.
Cannabis during pregnancy bumps psychosis risk in offspring
Pregnant women who use cannabis may slightly increase the risk their unborn child will develop psychosis later in life. The study's findings raise concerns about prenatal exposure to cannabis and its potential long-term effects on brain development.
Study shows how electricity-eating microbes use electrons to fix carbon dioxide
Researchers discovered how naturally occurring microbes like Rhodopseudomonas palustris use electrons from conductive substances to fix carbon dioxide. The process is connected to the microbe's ability to store and discharge electrons, similar to a rechargeable battery.
How team sports change a child's brain
A new study from Washington University in St. Louis found that involvement in team sports is related to greater hippocampal volume and reduced depression in boys, but not girls. The study suggests that the social interaction and structure provided by team sports may contribute to these benefits.
Are there Zika reservoirs in the Americas?
A team of researchers detected the Zika virus in feces of nonhuman primates in South America, revealing potential reservoirs. The study used a novel method to collect and test fecal samples, overcoming previous limitations in testing for the virus in other bodily fluids.
Engineering treatments for the opioid epidemic
A biomedical engineer is developing a therapeutic option that would prevent the opiates from crossing the blood-brain barrier, preventing the high abusers seek. The treatment involves generating an anti-opioid antibody that will arrest the drug in circulation and prevent it from getting to the brain.
Study first to show processes determining fate of new RNA pesticide in soils
Researchers tracked a new RNA pesticide in soils and found it degrades through enzymes and microbes, but also attaches to soil particles, slowing breakdown. The extent of this protection varies by soil type.
Engineer to develop drug-filled gel to heart damage
Researchers are developing a new material that delivers drugs directly to damaged heart tissue, preserving the structural support network and preventing further damage. The gel will slowly release the drugs over four weeks, promoting blood vessel creation and enzyme inhibition.
A new method for precision drug delivery: Painting
Researchers at Washington University have developed a new method for precise drug delivery using cavitation dose painting, which combines focused ultrasound with ultrasound therapy to target specific locations in the body. This technique uses passive cavitation imaging to predict where a drug goes and how much is delivered.
Better together: Mitochondrial fusion supports cell division
New research shows that rapidly dividing cells fuse their mitochondria, increasing oxygen consumption and producing aspartate for cell replication. This process may have implications for cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Earning a bee's wings
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis discovered that honey bees produce distinct cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) profiles based on age, which affects their social recognition and interaction with other bees within the colony. This study sheds light on the complex mechanisms of nestmate recognition in social insects.
High-powered fuel cell boosts electric-powered submersibles, drones
A team of engineers at Washington University in St. Louis developed a high-power fuel cell that operates at double the voltage of commercial fuel cells, powering unmanned underwater vehicles, drones, and eventually electric aircraft at significantly lower cost.
Chemical added to consumer products impairs response to antibiotic treatment
New research finds that triclosan exposure increases bacterial survival rates, making it harder for antibiotics to kill bacteria. The study suggests that widespread use of triclosan in consumer products may contribute to the rise of antibiotic-resistant infections.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalAntimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy·DateFeb 21, 2019
When a defect might be beneficial
A team of engineers found that certain defects in lead-halide perovskite semiconductors can improve their performance, increasing efficiency and stability. The discoveries could pave the way for the development of more efficient and environmentally friendly solar cells and LEDs.
Pottery reveals America's first social media networks
Researchers found a way to reconstruct these indigenous communication networks, showing how they laid the groundwork for Native American political systems. The analysis utilizes sophisticated social network analysis to map social and political connections between dozens of Native American villages.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2019
Prehistoric food globalization spanned three millennia
Researchers have mapped how ancient cereal crops spread from isolated pockets of first cultivation, driven by peasant farmers' needs rather than cultural choices. The study shows that food globalization in prehistory had an equally dramatic impact on food cultivation as the Columbian Exchange.
Early parent-child conflicts predict trouble charting life path
Conflict with mothers during early years of elementary school may predict a child's struggle to find purpose as an adult. A study from Washington University in St. Louis found that children who reported conflicted relationships with their mothers were more likely to experience a sense of confusion and uncertainty about their life path.
New clues discovered to lung transplant rejection
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine identified a process that may prevent antibody-mediated rejection in lung transplants. They found that giving immunosuppressive drugs can help the lungs survive and induce growth of lymph node-like structures within the grafts, which contain cells that dampen immune responses.
Using bacteria to create a water filter that kills bacteria
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed a novel membrane technology that purifies water while preventing biofouling using bacterial nanocellulose and reduced graphene oxide. The new membrane can filter water twice as fast as commercially available ultrafiltration membranes and is environmentally friendly.
Edging closer to personalized medicine for patients with irregular heartbeat
A team of researchers at Washington University in St. Louis has made a significant step towards precision medicine for patients with Long QT Syndrome Type 3, a life-threatening form of irregular heartbeat. By analyzing genetic variation and the nanoscale interaction of a commonly used drug treatment, they determined which patients woul...
A new approach to studying the flu
Researchers have developed a new method to study the flu virus, allowing them to visualize individual proteins and understand how they contribute to the virus's success. The study suggests that variations in protein composition may be beneficial for the virus, enabling it to spread infection more effectively.
Rates of chronic kidney disease, deaths outpace other diseases
The burden of chronic kidney disease is increasing substantially over the past 15 years in all 50 US states, with rates accelerating faster than other noninfectious diseases. The condition is particularly concerning for younger adults, who are experiencing a significant increase in deaths due to kidney disease.
Probiotics no help to young kids with stomach virus
A major US study has found that probiotics have no effect on symptoms in young children with gastroenteritis. The study, involving nearly 1,000 children ages 3 months to 4 years, provides evidence against the popular use of probiotics as a treatment for acute gastroenteritis.
Current climate models underestimate warming by black carbon aerosol
Researchers have discovered a universal power law describing black carbon's light absorption, which could help climate scientists build more accurate models. The findings suggest that warming due to black carbon may have been underestimated by current climate models.
New maps hint at how electric fish got their big brains
Researchers mapped the regions of the brain in electric fish, finding that the cerebellum is bigger than expected and associated with their use of weak electric discharges. The study challenges the idea that big brains always mean big cerebellums, suggesting alternative explanations for brain evolution
'Hopeful technology' could change detection, diagnosis of deadly ovarian cancer
A new photoacoustic imaging technique may help diagnose ovarian cancer at an early stage, improving survival rates. The technology uses transvaginal ultrasound and co-registered photoacoustic tomography to reveal information about tumor angiogenesis and blood oxygen saturation.
Seismic study reveals huge amount of water dragged into Earth's interior
A new seismic study reveals that subduction zones drag about three times more water down into the deep Earth than previously estimated. The observations from the Mariana Trench have important implications for the global water cycle, suggesting that much of the Earth's water is being recycled through volcanic activity.
New concussion recommendations for kids
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends light physical activity and allows electronic device use during concussion recovery. Young athletes should stop playing immediately after a suspected concussion but can engage in brisk walking and academic workloads with reduced intensity.
Replaying the tape of life: Is it possible?
A review explores the complexity of evolution's predictability, revealing a mix of contingency and determinism in evolutionary change. The study analyzed various empirical studies to characterize repeatability and contingency in evolution, finding that there is no easy answer to whether history affects the repeatability of evolution.
Whiskers, surface growth and dendrites in lithium batteries
Scientists have discovered three distinct growth modes in lithium metal anodes: whiskers, surface growth, and dendrites. These growths are influenced by competing reactions between the electrolyte and metal deposits. The study's findings suggest that controlling these growth modes is crucial for building reliable batteries.
White Americans see many immigrants as 'illegal' until proven otherwise, survey finds
A survey found that many white Americans assume immigrants from certain countries are 'illegal' due to stereotypes and lack of documentation, leading to discriminatory treatment. The study highlights the impact of social perceptions on immigrant standing in American society, revealing a new source of ethnic-based inequalities.
In childbirth, when to begin pushing does not affect C-section rates
A multicenter study involving over 2,400 first-time pregnant women found that delaying pushing during labor increases the risk of severe postpartum bleeding, infections, and sepsis. In contrast, immediate pushing is associated with lower rates of infection and excessive bleeding.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateOct 9, 2018
For better multiple-choice tests, avoid tricky questions, study finds
Researchers recommend creating simple formats with limited answer options to enhance learning and recall. The study also advises engaging 'real-world' cognitive processes in test questions and avoiding 'none of the above' and 'all of the above' answer choices.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition·DateOct 2, 2018
Shen leads team seeking to improve quantum computation
A team of scientists, led by Dr. Shen, is working on developing a two-photon controlled-phase logic gate, an essential building block for optical quantum information. The team aims to overcome the difficulty in manipulating photons and create a fundamental component for photonic quantum computation.
Nucleation a boon to sustainable nanomanufacturing
Engineers at Washington University in St. Louis have discovered the activation energy and kinetic factors of calcium carbonate's nucleation, key to predicting and controlling the process. This research can help create nanomaterials, control nanoparticle properties, and aid in designing larger-scale engineering processes.