ScienceDaily: Top News

Ocean microplastic pollution may be greater than estimated

Posted: 25 Jan 2022 06:30 AM PST

The great diversity of scientific techniques and methods used in the study of marine microplastics pollution limits the current knowledge of this serious environmental problem threatening our ecosystems.

Studying the Big Bang with artificial intelligence

Posted: 25 Jan 2022 06:30 AM PST

Artificial intelligence is being used for many extremely complex tasks. So why not use machine learning to study particle physics? As it turns out, this is not easy, because of some special mathematical properties of particle physics. But now, a neural network has been developed that can be used to study quark gluon plasma - the state of the universe after the Big Bang.

Study identifies new way to attack herpesviruses

Posted: 25 Jan 2022 06:30 AM PST

A new study has opened the door to a new approach to attacking herpesviruses. The study demonstrated that targeting 2 metal ion-dependent enzymes of human herpesviruses with 2 compounds, AK-157 and AK-166, can inhibit the replication of the virus. The finding provides new opportunities to developing agents against herpesviruses.

Study detects how a genetic variant modifies the brain stimulation impact on memory

Posted: 25 Jan 2022 06:30 AM PST

The gene of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is associated with several processes related to memory and brain plasticity. Now, a new article reveals that it is easier to alter the cognitive activity through transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in people with the genetic variant Val/Val for the BDNF gene.

New technique boosts efficiency, sustainability of large-scale perovskite solar cells

Posted: 25 Jan 2022 06:30 AM PST

An international team of researchers has demonstrated a technique for producing perovskite photovoltaic materials on an industrial scale, which will reduce the cost and improve the performance of mass-produced perovskite solar cells.

Antibody with engineered peptide targets bone metastasis

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 05:42 PM PST

A moderate amount of a peptide-enhanced cancer drug goes a long way in treating breast cancers that metastasize to the bone.

Why the Omicron variant causes less severe disease

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 05:37 PM PST

A new study shows that the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant is less effective than Delta at blocking a cellular defense mechanism against viruses, the so-called 'interferon response'. Moreover, cell culture findings indicate that eight important COVID-19 drugs and drug candidates remain effective against Omicron.

Blood proteins could be the key to a long and healthy life, study finds

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 05:37 PM PST

Two blood proteins have been shown by scientists to influence how long and healthy a life we live, research suggests.

Redefining alcohol use disorder

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 04:49 PM PST

Researchers have developed a new framework that they believe will help identify people previously overlooked for alcohol use disorder (AUD). This framework focuses on 13 risk factors, such as impulsive behavior, reward sensitivity, and punishment sensitivity, that could lead to someone developing an AUD.

A soft, stretchable thermometer

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 04:49 PM PST

The next generation of soft robotics, smart clothing and biocompatible medical devices are going to need integrated soft sensors that can stretch and twist with the device or wearer. The challenge: most of the components used in traditional sensing are rigid. Now, researchers have developed a soft, self-powered thermometer that can be integrated into stretchable electronics and soft robots.

Fast, cheap test can detect COVID-19 virus’ genome without need for PCR

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 04:49 PM PST

Researchers have developed a new test for COVID-19 that combines the speed of over-the-counter antigen tests with the accuracy of PCR tests that are processed in medical labs and hospitals.

Access to vital health services fell during COVID, particularly for poorer Americans

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 04:49 PM PST

Some of the most socioeconomically disadvantaged patients -- those with Medicaid or Medicare-Medicaid dual eligibility insurance -- were far less likely than those with other insurance plans to return to using outpatient services at rates approaching normal, pre-pandemic levels.

Gender disparities may be widening for physicians due to COVID-19

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 04:49 PM PST

Analysis of top-ranked primary care journal before and during pandemic found pandemic disproportionately affected women. Publications are 'hallmarks of tenure decisions' and boost promotions and raises. Burnout, childcare and eldercare responsibilities may be impacting publication rates.

Lucky genes can help protect people with obesity from some disease

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 04:49 PM PST

Geneticists have revealed why some people with obesity remain relatively healthy, whilst others suffer from life-changing ailments such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Seeing the same GP improves treatment for people with dementia

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 04:49 PM PST

New research analyzed more than 9,000 patient records of people diagnosed with dementia. The team found that people with dementia who were consistently seen by the same GP over the course of one year were given fewer medicines and were less likely to be given medicines that can cause problems like incontinence, drowsiness and falls.

New study calls into question the importance of meat eating in shaping our evolution

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 12:11 PM PST

A new study calls into question the primacy of meat eating in early human evolution.

Current vaccines teach T cells to fight Omicron

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 12:11 PM PST

Scientists have found that four COVID-19 vaccines prompt the body to make effective, long-lasting T cells against SARS-CoV-2. These T cells can recognize SARS-CoV-2 Variants of Concern, including Delta and Omicron.

Squatina mapama, new species from Panama: first report of an angel shark from the Central American Caribbean

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 12:10 PM PST

Genetic analyses helped identify a new cryptic shark species of the genus Squatina from the Western Atlantic Ocean.

How environment and genomes interact in plant development

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 12:10 PM PST

A new study could help to breed more resilient crops as well as shed light on mechanisms that play a critical role in plant growth. The study focuses on how phenotypic plasticity, or the way a given trait can differ as a result of environmental conditions, influences the growth of sorghum.

Undiagnosed autistic traits common among youths with substance use disorders, study finds

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 12:10 PM PST

An estimated 20 percent of teens and young adults who seek treatment for addiction may have previously unrecognized social impairment characteristics of an autism spectrum disorder, a new study finds.

Extraordinary black hole found in neighboring galaxy

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 12:10 PM PST

At one hundred thousand solar masses, it is smaller than the black holes we have found at the centers of galaxies, but bigger than the black holes that are born when stars explode. This makes it one of the only confirmed intermediate-mass black holes, an object that has long been sought by astronomers.

Heat dome and other climate events have growing impact on mental health

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 12:10 PM PST

Last summer's Western North American heat dome caused more than record-breaking temperature increases--rising anxiety about climate change is reported in a new study on the weather event's impact on our mental health.

Researchers provide insight into how the brain multitasks while walking

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 12:10 PM PST

New research turns the old idiom about not being able to walk and chew gum on its head. Scientists have shown that the healthy brain is able to multitask while walking without sacrificing how either activity is accomplished.

Women ages 35 and younger are 44% more likely to have an ischemic stroke than male peers

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 12:10 PM PST

Women ages 35 years and younger were 44% more likely to have an ischemic stroke (caused by blockages of blood vessels in the brain) than their male counterparts, according to a new review of more than a dozen international studies on sex differences in stroke occurrence. This gap narrows between the ages of 35 and 45, and there is conflicting evidence about whether women or men have more ischemic stroke in the 35- to 45-year-old age group.

Artificial intelligence identifies individuals at risk for heart disease complications

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 08:50 AM PST

For the first time, University of Utah Health scientists have shown that artificial intelligence could lead to better ways to predict the onset and course of cardiovascular disease. The researchers, working in conjunction with physicians from Intermountain Primary Children's Hospital, developed unique computational tools to precisely measure the synergistic effects of existing medical conditions on the heart and blood vessels.

Insights into a cystic fibrosis treatment may herald a novel class of drugs

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 08:50 AM PST

Protein folding diseases, from Alzheimer's to Gaucher's, may one day be treated by a unique class of protein corrector molecules that are already helping manage cystic fibrosis.

A spouse's education can positively impact their partner's overall health

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 08:50 AM PST

A new study found that spousal education is positively related to people's overall health, with an effect size that rivals the impact of a person's own education.

Urban Britain’s potential as a ‘grow your own veggies’ nation

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 08:50 AM PST

Scientists set out to discover if there is sufficient green space, such as private gardens, parks and other recreational areas, within our towns and cities to grow enough fresh food to feed local populations.

Scientists make first detection of exotic 'X' particles in quark-gluon plasma

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 08:50 AM PST

Physicists have found evidence of X particles in the quark-gluon plasma produced in the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, based near Geneva, Switzerland.

Overweight dogs respond well to high-protein, high-fiber diet

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 08:50 AM PST

A study of overweight dogs fed a reduced calorie, high-protein, high-fiber diet for 24 weeks found that the dogs' body composition and inflammatory markers changed over time in ways that parallel the positive changes seen in humans on similar diets. The dogs achieved a healthier weight without losing too much muscle mass, and their serum triglycerides, insulin and inflammatory markers all decreased with weight loss.

Analysis reveals rare disease is more common than previously thought

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 08:50 AM PST

A large data analysis shows a rare respiratory disease called primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is more common than previously thought.

How can body weight affect the mortality risk of excessive drinkers?

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 08:50 AM PST

People with underweight who drink excessively may be at an even higher risk of dying from heart disease, cancer and other causes, according to a new study.

New control technique uses solar panels to reach desired Mars orbit

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 08:50 AM PST

Aerospace engineers have developed a way to use articulated solar panels to steer the satellite during aerobraking, reducing the number of passes needed, resulting in potential savings in propellant, time, and money.

Study demonstrates accuracy of less invasive technique for monitoring wildlife health

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 08:50 AM PST

A recent study finds a technique that uses dried spots of blood to measure health indicators in elephants is comparable to techniques that use larger blood samples and require immediate cold storage -- technology that is not always available when monitoring animals in the wild.

Calf personality, feeding, and growth: When one style doesn’t fit all

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 08:50 AM PST

In a natural setting, cows and nursing calves together set the feeding schedule for the calf, and calves wean gradually, completing weaning at varying ages. By contrast, in artificial rearing systems with minimal cow-calf contact, the weaning schedule may be strictly determined, with reductions of milk intake based solely on the calf's age. But how well do different calves thrive under different feeding and weaning systems?

Cracking chimpanzee culture

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 08:50 AM PST

Chimpanzees don't automatically know what to do when they come across nuts and stones. Researchers have now used field experiments to show that chimpanzees thus do not simply invent nut cracking with tools, but need to learn such complex cultural behaviors from others. Their culture is therefore more similar to human culture than often assumed.

New software may help neurology patients capture clinical data with their own smartphones

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 08:49 AM PST

New pose estimation software has the potential to help neurologists and their patients capture important clinical data using simple tools such as smartphones and tablets, according to a new study.

Hippos recognize each other’s voices, respond differently to calls of strangers

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 08:48 AM PST

Hippopotamuses are rather vocal animals. Their 'wheeze honk' calls can be heard over long distances, leading researchers to suspect the calls play an important role in maintaining social groups. Now, a new study shows that hippos recognize each other's voices. They also respond less aggressively to the calls of a neighbor compared to those of a stranger.

My heart will go on: Patient-derived heart cells mimic disease in vitro

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 07:39 AM PST

Researchers have found that induced pluripotent stem cell--derived cardiomyocytes from a patient with arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy recapitulate the reduced contractility and impaired desmosome assembly associated with this disease, providing a rapid and convenient platform for developing new treatments such as gene replacement therapy.

Social media use tied to poor physical health

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 07:39 AM PST

Social media use has been linked to biological and psychological indicators associated with poor physical health among college students, according to new results. Research participants who used social media excessively were found to have higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a biological marker of chronic inflammation that predicts serious illnesses, such as diabetes, certain cancers and cardiovascular disease. In addition to elevated CRP levels, results suggest higher social media use was also related to somatic symptoms, like headaches, chest and back pains, and more frequent visits to doctors and health centers for the treatment of illness.

Researchers propose ultrasound stimulation as an effective therapy for Alzheimer's disease in new study

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 07:39 AM PST

Synchronizing one's brainwaves to ultrasound pulses could reduce the accumulation of abnormal proteins characteristic of the onset of Alzheimer’s disease, new research suggests.

Living environment affects child’s weight development from birth to school age

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 07:39 AM PST

A new study shows that living in asocioeconomic disadvantaged neighborhood is a risk factor for adverse weight development in children under school age. Researchers studied the connection between neighborhoods' socioeconomic status and children's weight development from data covering over 11,000 Finnish children.

Green backyards help increase urban climate resilience: Here is how

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 07:39 AM PST

Taking into account a variety of trees and green structures in four otherwise similar residential courtyards, a new study evaluates their effects on thermal comfort, biodiversity, carbon storage and social interaction. The authors show that those courtyards with more green structures yield considerably better results than those with fewer, and in their cooling capacity have a significant impact on people's thermal comfort.

New test to screen newborns for rare genetic disorders paves the way for earlier diagnosis and treatment

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 07:39 AM PST

A newly developed test to screen for three rare genetic disorders simultaneously in newborns was feasible, reliable and scalable, according to a new study.

Breathing: The master clock of the sleeping brain

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 07:38 AM PST

Neuroscientists have shown that breathing coordinates neuronal activity throughout the brain during sleep and quiet.

Transparency in butterflies, from A-Z: It’s more of a superpower than we thought

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 07:38 AM PST

Wing transparency as a flexible weapon for self-defense is one of many findings from a multi-year study spanning the physics, biology, ecology, and evolution of transparency in butterflies conducted by several groups.

Hope for present-day Martian groundwater dries up

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 06:05 AM PST

Liquid water previously detected under Mars' ice-covered south pole is probably just a dusty mirage, according to a new study of the red planet. The finding challenges a 2018 study that appeared to find liquid water under Mars' south polar cap.

Landing therapeutic genes safely in the human genome

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 06:05 AM PST

Researchers have developed a computational approach to identify GSH sites with significantly higher potential for the safe insertion of therapeutic genes and their durable expression across many cell types. For two out of 2,000 predicted GSH sites, the team provided an in-depth validation with adoptive T cell therapies and in vivo gene therapies for skin diseases in mind. By engineering the identified GSH sites to carry a reporter gene in T cells, and a therapeutic gene in skin cells, respectively, they demonstrated safe and long-lasting expression of the newly introduced genes.

Men who worry more may develop heart disease and diabetes risk factors at younger ages

Posted: 24 Jan 2022 05:46 AM PST

In a long-term study of men in the U.S., more high-risk factors for heart disease and Type 2 diabetes developed earlier in life among those who reported more feelings of worry or feeling overwhelmed compared to those with lower levels of worry. The study's results suggest that men prone to worry and anxiety may need to pay extra attention to cardiometabolic disease risk factors, such as maintaining a healthy weight and taking blood pressure or cholesterol medicines, if needed.

Exploring fish flow from fisheries to supper

Posted: 21 Jan 2022 01:55 PM PST

A recently published study brought together experts from the fields of oceanography, genetics, ecology, fisheries biology, and social sciences to develop unprecedented insights into the natural and commercial flow of fish.