ScienceDaily: Most Popular News


Pathogenic bacteria rendered almost harmless

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 05:24 PM PDT

By identifying one of the mechanisms regulating the virulence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a research team is proposing a new strategy to combat this bacterium, which is resistant to many common antibiotics.

Researchers trace dust grain's journey through newborn solar system

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 02:41 PM PDT

Combining atomic-scale sample analysis and models simulating likely conditions in the nascent solar system, the study revealed clues about the origin of crystals that formed more than 4.5 billion years ago. The findings provide insights into the fundamental processes underlying the formation of planetary systems, many of which are still shrouded in mystery.

Modeling a circular economy for electronic waste

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 02:41 PM PDT

New research develops a framework to understand the choices an electronic waste recycler has to make and the role that digital fraud prevention could have in preventing dishonest recycling practices.

New position statement declares that sleep is essential to health

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 02:41 PM PDT

A new position statement emphasizes that sleep is a biological necessity, and insufficient sleep and untreated sleep disorders are detrimental for health, well-being, and public safety.

Civil engineers examine urban cooling strategies using reflective surfaces

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 02:41 PM PDT

Researchers used a Computational Fluid Dynamics model to find ways to decrease cost and increase usage of cooler surfaces. The paper examined the possibility of applying cooler surfaces to just half the surfaces in a city.

Landmark field trials show potential of gene editing

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 01:05 PM PDT

Field trials investigating healthy compounds in agronomically important brassica crops have underlined the 'immense potential' of gene editing technology, say researchers.

'Pack ice' tectonics reveal Venus' geological secrets

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 01:05 PM PDT

A new analysis of Venus' surface shows evidence of tectonic motion in the form of crustal blocks that have jostled against each other like broken chunks of pack ice.

Database of vegetation of planet Earth

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 01:05 PM PDT

It's a treasure trove of data: the global vegetation database 'sPlotOpen' is now freely accessible. It contains balanced, representative data on vegetation from 114 countries and from all climate zones on Earth.

COVID-19 dual-antibody therapies effective against variants in animal study

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 01:05 PM PDT

A new study suggests that many, but not all, COVID-19 therapies made from combinations of two antibodies are effective against a wide range of virus variants. Further, combination therapies appear to prevent the emergence of drug resistance.

'Flashed' nanodiamonds are just a phase

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 01:05 PM PDT

A new 'flash' process can turn carbon black into functionalized nanodiamond and other materials. The carbon atoms evolved through several phases depending on the length of the flash.

Quantum computing: Common perovskite superfluoresces at high temperatures

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 01:05 PM PDT

A commonly studied perovskite can superfluoresce at temperatures that are practical to achieve and at timescales long enough to make it potentially useful in quantum computing applications.

Universal mechanism of regulation in plant cells discovered

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 01:05 PM PDT

All plant cells obtain their energy mainly from two organelles they contain - chloroplasts (responsible for photosynthesis) and mitochondria (responsible for the biochemical cycle of respiration that converts sugars into energy). However, a large number of a plant cell's genes in its mitochondria and chloroplasts can develop defects, jeopardising their function. Nevertheless, plant cells evolved an amazing tool called the RNA editosome (a large protein complex) to repair these kinds of errors. It can modify defective messenger RNA that result from defective DNA by transforming (deamination) of certain mRNA nucleotides.

SARS-CoV-2 infections may trigger antibody responses against multiple virus proteins

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 01:05 PM PDT

All coronaviruses produce four primary structural proteins and multiple nonstructural proteins. However, the majority of antibody-based SARS-CoV-2 research has focused on the spike and nucleocapsid proteins. A new study suggests that immune responses may develop against other proteins produced by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

New method developed to detect and adjust population structure in genetic summary data

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 01:05 PM PDT

Researchers announced the development of a new method to increase the utility and equity of large genetic databases.

The Science of tsunamis

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 01:05 PM PDT

The word 'tsunami' brings immediately to mind the havoc that can be wrought by these uniquely powerful waves. The tsunamis we hear about most often are caused by undersea earthquakes, and the waves they generate can travel at speeds of up to 250 miles per hour and reach tens of meters high when they make landfall and break. They can cause massive flooding and rapid widespread devastation in coastal areas, as happened in Southeast Asia in 2004 and in Japan in 2011.

New method for molecular functionalization of surfaces

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 01:05 PM PDT

An interdisciplinary team of researchers has succeeded in depositing nitrogen-containing organic molecules as a highly ordered layer on silicon. This opens up new perspectives for the development of more powerful semiconductor materials, which can be used, for example, in computers, photovoltaics or sensor technology.

Exposure to pollutants, increased free-radical damage speeds up aging

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 01:05 PM PDT

A new study suggests that unrepaired DNA damage can increase the speed of aging.

Novel smart cement can be used to build more durable roads and cities

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 10:39 AM PDT

By introducing nanoparticles into ordinary cement, researchers have formed a smarter, more durable and highly functional cement.

Computers help researchers find materials to turn solar power into hydrogen

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 10:39 AM PDT

Researchers report that they have taken a step toward overcoming the challenge of inexpensive hydrogen production by using supercomputers to find materials that could help accelerate hydrogen separation when water is exposed to light, a process called photocatalysis.

Gene profile in blood predicts risk of poor outcomes, death for patients with COVID-19

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 10:39 AM PDT

A previously validated blood gene profile that predicts idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis mortality was repurposed to assess the likelihood of COVID-19 survival, a new study reports,

Engineers create 'seeds' for growing near-perfect 2D perovskite crystals

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 10:39 AM PDT

Engineers have created microscopic seeds for growing remarkably uniform 2D perovskite crystals that are both stable and highly efficient at harvesting electricity from sunlight.

Antibody disease enhancement of COVID-19 does not appear to occur in animal models

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 10:39 AM PDT

Researchers have demonstrated in mice and monkeys that human antibodies lacked the ability to make SARS-CoV-2 infection worse and, instead, exerted their defensive powers against the infection. The findings help reinforce evidence that antibodies are safe when given as treatments or induced by COVID-19 vaccines.

New research unlocks the mystery of New England's beaches

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 10:39 AM PDT

Until now, the factors governing which beaches slope gradually to the sea and which ones end abruptly in a steep drop-off have been largely unknown. However, new research reveals, with unprecedented detail, how the grain size of beach sand relates to the slope of the beach itself. These new findings are critical to understanding how New England's beaches will respond to both rising sea levels and increased storm activity.

New cold atom source lays groundwork for portable quantum devices

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 10:39 AM PDT

Researchers demonstrate a new high-flux and compact cold-atom source with low power consumption that can be a key component of many quantum technologies.

There's more to genes than DNA: How Mum and Dad add something extra, just for you

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 09:38 AM PDT

Biologists have discovered 71 new 'imprinted' genes in the mouse genome, a finding that takes them a step closer to unravelling some of the mysteries of epigenetics - an area of science that describes how genes are switched on (and off) in different cells, at different stages in development and adulthood.

New high-speed method for spectroscopic measurements

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 09:38 AM PDT

Researchers have shown how spectroscopic measurements can be made much faster. By correlating polarization to the color of a pulsed laser, the team can track changes in the spectrum of the light by simple and extremely fast polarization measurements. The method opens new possibilities to measure spectral changes on a nanosecond time scale over the entire color spectrum of light.

How the surfaces of silicone breast implants affect the immune system

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 09:37 AM PDT

A team analyzed how the surface topography on silicone breast implants influences health complications such as scarring, inflammation, and a rare type of lymphoma.

Birthdays and COVID-19

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 09:37 AM PDT

A recent study found that the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection increased 30 percent for households with a recent birthday in counties with high rates of COVID-19, but no such jumps were seen in areas with low rates of infection. The findings suggest informal social gatherings such as birthday parties played role in infection spread at the height of the coronavirus pandemic.

Scientists develop energy saving technique paving way for a carbon neutral society

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 09:37 AM PDT

Researchers have discovered a method which will allow for faster communication systems and better energy saving electronics.

Projections of US high-tide flooding show rapid increases and extreme months

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 09:37 AM PDT

In the mid-2030s, multiple United States coastal regions may see rapid increases in the number of high-tide flooding (HTF) days, according to a new study. The combined effects of sea-level rise and natural fluctuations in tidal range are anticipated to cause tipping points in the frequency of HTF.

New research finds link between walking speed and dual tasking after stroke

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 09:37 AM PDT

Research has found that training stroke survivors to walk at a faster speed during recovery can help improve the brain function that enables people to walk and perform another task simultaneously, known as dual-task walking.

Targeted therapy could be first line treatment for childhood cancer

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 09:37 AM PDT

Scientists studying a common childhood cancer have made a major breakthrough which could lead to a cure for some youngsters who would not have survived the condition.

Adjuvant-free avian influenza vaccines in the works

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 09:37 AM PDT

Researchers develop a new avian influenza vaccine using plant-based recombinant protein.

A tapeworm drug against SARS-CoV-2?

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 09:37 AM PDT

Researchers have examined the way in which SARS-CoV-2 reprograms the metabolism of the host cell in order to gain an overall advantage. In their study, the researchers were able to identify four substances which inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication in the host cell.

Microscopy deep learning predicts viral infections

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 09:37 AM PDT

When viruses infect cells, changes in the cell nucleus occur, and these can be observed through fluorescence microscopy. Using fluorescence images from live cells, researchers have trained an artificial neural network to reliably recognize cells that are infected by adenoviruses or herpes viruses. The procedure also identifies severe acute infections at an early stage.

Summer catch-up programs need to focus on teens' wellbeing, not just academic progress

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 09:37 AM PDT

Summer holiday school catch-up programs to address gaps in knowledge after school closures need to support children who are still struggling due to social isolation.

Nrf2: The custodian regulating oxidative stress and immunity against acrylamide toxicity

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 09:37 AM PDT

A study using genetically modified mice shows that a protein called Nrf2 increases the expression of protective genes in the acrylamide-induced toxic response.

Cellular mechanisms of early mammary gland development unraveled

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 09:37 AM PDT

A research group used live tissue imaging for the first time to visualize the emergence of the mammary gland.

Twenty-year study links childhood depression to disrupted adult health and functioning

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 09:37 AM PDT

Depression in youth, between the ages of 10 and 24 years, is both a leading cause of stress and a possible risk factor for future diseases and impairment. Now, a study confirms that depression in childhood or adolescence is associated with higher levels of adult anxiety and substance use disorders, worse health and social functioning, less financial and educational achievement, and increased criminality.

New modeling technique shows greater likelihood, frequency of urban extreme heat events

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 09:37 AM PDT

This model addresses the fact that most traditional climate models effectively ignore cities entirely, causing them to underestimate the frequency and severity of urban heat waves. Urban areas make up only 2-3% of the earth's land, so their effect on global models is negligible, but more than half of the world's population lives in urban areas, so their impact is significant.

Ancient bones provide clues about Kangaroo Island's past and future

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 07:42 AM PDT

A study of ancient bones on South Australia's Kangaroo Island has provided new information about the Island's past fauna and an insight into how species may live there in the future.

Scientists reveal silver-based antimicrobials can be utilized as antibiotic adjuvants to combat antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 07:42 AM PDT

A research team discovers that silver (Ag)-based antimicrobials can effectively combat antibiotic resistant Staphylococcus aureus by targeting multiple biological pathways via functional disruption of key proteins and can be further exploited to enhance the efficacy of conventional antibiotics as well as to resensitize methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) to antibiotics.

A bright future: Using visible light to decompose CO2 with high efficiency

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 07:42 AM PDT

To tackle the challenge of global warming, scientists have been looking into green and sustainable methods of breaking down carbon dioxide in emissions and in the atmosphere. Now, a group of researchers have developed a novel, easy to synthesize composite compound that enables the efficient use of solar energy to reduce carbon dioxide, taking us one step closer to achieving a green economy.

A tiny device incorporates a compound made from starch and baking soda to harvest energy from movement

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 07:42 AM PDT

Scientists have used a compound made from a starch derivative and baking soda to help convert mechanical to electrical energy. The approach is cost-effective and biocompatible, and can help charge low-energy electronics like calculators and watches.

New geochemical study confirms cause of end-Permian mass extinction event

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 06:46 AM PDT

Researchers found a direct link between global dispersion of nickel-rich aerosols, ocean chemistry changes and the end-Permian mass extinction event that took place 251 million years ago.

Smaller bodies, longer wings, earlier migrations: Untangling the multiple impacts of climate warming

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 05:41 AM PDT

When a research team reported last year that North American migratory birds have been getting smaller over the past four decades and that their wings have gotten a bit longer, the scientists wondered if they were seeing the fingerprint of earlier spring migrations.

Some blood pressure-lowering meds linked to less memory decline in older adults, study finds

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 05:41 AM PDT

High blood pressure is a risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia in older adults. Studies have shown that commonly prescribed high blood pressure medications, or antihypertensives, may have a positive, beneficial impact on cognitive function including memory. This meta-analysis compares the impact on memory over time associated with taking antihypertensives that cross the blood-brain barrier versus those that do not.

New software for designing sustainable cities

Posted: 21 Jun 2021 05:40 AM PDT

By 2050, more than 70% of the world's population will live in cities. Researchers have developed software that shows city planners where to invest in nature to improve people's lives and save billions of dollars.

Researchers explore microbial ecosystem in search of drugs to fight SARS-CoV-2

Posted: 20 Jun 2021 07:42 AM PDT

Researchers have found that certain commensal bacteria that reside in the human intestine produce compounds that inhibit SARS-CoV-2.

Study evaluates potential causes of increased transmission in SARS-CoV-2 variants

Posted: 20 Jun 2021 07:42 AM PDT

Although two SARS-CoV-2 variants are associated with higher transmission, patients with these variants show no evidence of higher viral loads in their upper respiratory tracts compared to the control group, a new study found.