ScienceDaily: Top News

When a band falls flat: Searching for flatness in materials

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 11:14 AM PDT

The world's first catalog of flat band materials could reduce the serendipity in the search for new materials with exotic quantum properties, such as magnetism and superconductivity, with applications in memory devices or in long-range dissipationless transport of power.

Audio files are being used as 'digital drugs', survey suggests

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 10:05 AM PDT

A new study sheds light on the little-known phenomenon of binaural beats, where sounds purportedly evoke psychoactive effects.

Record broken: Hubble spots farthest star ever seen

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 09:46 AM PDT

NASA's Hubble Space Telescope has established an extraordinary new benchmark: detecting the light of a star that existed within the first billion years after the universe's birth in the big bang -- the farthest individual star ever seen to date.

Deserts 'breathe' water vapor, study shows

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 09:14 AM PDT

Deserts may seem lifeless and inert, but they are very much alive. Sand dunes, in particular, grow and move -- and according to a decades long research project, they also 'breathe' humid air.

Engineering researchers develop porous nanoparticles for regenerative medicine

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 09:14 AM PDT

Stem cells can develop into many different types of cells in the body. For instance, when a person is injured, stem cells come to the site of the injury and aid in healing damaged tissues. New nanotechnology could leverage the body's regenerative potential by directing stem cells to form bone tissue.

Hands, feet, and fins: The connection that explains acral melanoma

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 09:14 AM PDT

Scientists are using zebrafish to understand human skin cancer that attacks the hands and feet.

When worlds collide: Studying impact craters to uncover the secrets of the solar system

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 09:13 AM PDT

While for humans the constants might be death and taxes, for planets the constants are gravity and collisions. Astronomers are using information about impacts to understand the history and the composition of planets, moons, asteroids and meteorites throughout the solar system.

Study shows that RNA can be targeted by small molecule drugs, creating new possibilities for disease treatment

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 09:12 AM PDT

Until now, proteins have been the target of most medications for the prevention and treatment of human disease. Drug developers have perceived RNA to be too unstable to target with drug therapy. However, a screen of 50,000 compounds has revealed drug-like activity against an RNA prototype called Xist, a result that opens the door for development of new medications.

Oxytocin treatment can take lions from ferocious to friendly

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 08:13 AM PDT

Lions typically aren't keen on making new friends. The giant cats guard their territory fiercely and can mortally wound a foe with a single swipe. While aggression is an advantage for apex predators in the wild, it poses real challenges for lions on reserves or in captivity, a number that is growing due to habitat loss. Researchers working on a wildlife reserve in Dinokeng, South Africa found that an intranasal application of the 'love hormone' oxytocin could make lion meet-cutes less life-threatening.

Where we grow up influences our sense of direction

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 08:13 AM PDT

New researcher has demonstrated that people's spatial navigation ability is influenced by their geographical origin. Growing up in rural or urban areas, or in cities of varying complexity, influences our sense of direction in adulthood. These results were obtained using data collected from the video game Sea Hero Quest.

Researchers discover new model for 'global' DNA repair

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 08:13 AM PDT

Two studies provide a radically new picture of how bacterial cells continually repair damaged sections (lesions) in their DNA.

Molecular 'blueprint' illuminates how plants perceive light

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 08:13 AM PDT

Plants rely on their ability to sense light for survival. But unlike animals, plants don't have eyes full of photoreceptors to capture and convey messages from visual stimuli. Instead, plants are coated with a network of light-sensing photoreceptors that detect different wavelengths of light, allowing them to regulate their lifecycles and adjust to environmental conditions. Now, scientists have determined the molecular structure of one of these vital photoreceptors -- a protein known as PhyB -- revealing a wholly different structure than previously known. The findings may have implications for agricultural and 'green' bioengineering practices.

Researchers find topological phenomena at high, technologically relevant frequencies

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 07:33 AM PDT

A new study describes topological control capabilities in an acoustic system at high technologically relevant frequencies. This work has implications for applications such as 5G communications and quantum information processing.

Alzheimer‘s: Amyloid and tau are a perilous couple

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 07:33 AM PDT

In the course of Alzheimer's disease, two proteins called 'amyloid' and 'tau' accumulate in the brain. A new study with more than 200 participants now provides insights into the interaction of these pathological phenomena. The data suggest that tau load in the brain impairs memory functions only when amyloid burden is also high. These findings therefore support therapeutic approaches aimed at removing amyloid from the brain in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease.

Argon found in air of ancient atmosphere

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 07:33 AM PDT

Researchers have discovered argon trapped in air-hydrate crystals in ice cores, which can be used to reconstruct past temperature changes and climate shifts.

Programmed assembly of wafer-scale atomically thin crystals

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 07:33 AM PDT

A research team develops an assembly method for atomically thin crystals at the wafer-scale.

Eating two servings of avocados a week linked to lower risk of cardiovascular disease

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 07:32 AM PDT

A 30-year study of more than 110,000 health professionals found that participants who ate at least two servings of avocado a week had a lower risk of cardiovascular disease compared to those who rarely ate avocados. Replacing animal products like butter, cheese or bacon with avocado was also associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease events.

Study shows critical protein may play a role in origin of mesothelioma

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 07:32 AM PDT

Researchers have discovered that a protein critical in the embryonic stages of life is reactivated in certain cases of mesothelioma, offering clues into the origin of this aggressive cancer.

New algorithm will improve bowel-cancer patient care

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 07:32 AM PDT

An algorithm which can predict how long a patient might spend in hospital if they're diagnosed with bowel cancer could save the money and help patients feel better prepared.

Stabilizing low blood sugar in infancy prevents long-term brain damage

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 07:32 AM PDT

Low blood sugar in infancy is serious, but treatment can ward off long-term brain damage in infants, a new study has found.

Americans love football, but differ on whether kids should play

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 07:32 AM PDT

Football may be America's most popular sport, but the nation is deeply divided about whether youth should play the tackle version of the game.

The Rule of Two helps make spaces sound better

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 07:32 AM PDT

Researchers developed a new acoustic measurement technique in a room with more acoustic combinations than there are ants on Earth.

Engineering the quantum states in solids using light

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 07:31 AM PDT

A research team has developed a platform that can control the properties of solid materials with light and measure them.

Exercise may reduce depression symptoms, boost effects of therapy

Posted: 30 Mar 2022 07:17 AM PDT

Exercising for half an hour may reduce symptoms of depression for at least 75 minutes post-workout and amplify the benefits of therapy, according to two new studies.

Researchers discover source of super-fast electron 'rain'

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 04:17 PM PDT

Scientists have discovered a new source of super-fast, energetic electrons raining down on Earth's atmosphere, a phenomenon that contributes to the colorful aurora borealis and poses hazards to satellites, spacecraft and astronauts.

Immune cells produce chemical messenger that prevents heart disease–related inflammation

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 03:54 PM PDT

In the bone marrow, B cells produce a chemical messenger called acetylcholine that prevents inflammation in the heart and blood vessels by blocking white blood cell production. Tapping into this process may help scientists target inflammation in cardiovascular conditions.

Drought alters Mammoth Mountain’s carbon dioxide emissions

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 03:54 PM PDT

A study suggests the weight of snow and ice atop the Sierra Nevada affects a California volcano's carbon dioxide emissions, one of the main signs of volcanic unrest.

Universal flu vaccine candidate

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 03:53 PM PDT

Scientists have leveraged on a novel vaccine platform to deliver M2e to immune cells. This allowed them to prove that a single shot immunization containing M2e was able to trigger long-lasting immune responses that could protect effectively against multiple strains of the flu. The team was also able to demonstrate that this vaccination approach significantly enhanced protective immune responses in the context of pre-existing flu immunity. This scenario is particularly relevant in adult and elderly populations, where individuals have been exposed to flu viruses multiple times in the past and have low levels of M2e-specific antibodies in their blood circulation.

'An underutilized tool:' UV-LED lights can kill coronaviruses and HIV with the flip of a switch, study finds

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 12:28 PM PDT

The same light bulbs used in offices and public spaces can destroy coronaviruses and HIV, according to a new study.

Unravelling the mystery of parrot longevity

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 12:28 PM PDT

Bigger brains have led some species of parrot to live surprisingly long lives, new research shows.

Zebra finch males sing in dialects and females pay attention

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 12:28 PM PDT

Male zebra finches learn their song by imitating conspecifics. To stand out in the crowd, each male develops its own unique song. Because of this individual-specific song, it was long assumed that dialects do not exist in zebra finches. However, with the help of an artificial intelligence technique, researchers have now been able to show that the songs of four different zebra finch populations differ systematically. They also discovered that these 'cryptic dialects' are decisive for the females' choice of mate. Thus, female zebra finches pay more attention to a cultural trait than to male appearance.

Researchers identify key complex for ribosome generation

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 11:25 AM PDT

Researchers have identified a four-protein complex that appears to play a key role in generating ribosomes -- organelles that serve as protein factories for cells -- as well as a surprising part in neurodevelopmental disorders. The findings could lead to new ways to manipulate ribosome production, which could impact a variety of conditions that affect human health.

Head-mounted microscope reaches deeper into mouse brains

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 11:25 AM PDT

Researchers have developed a miniature microscope that is designed for high-resolution 3D images inside the brains of living mice. The new, lightweight design could help scientists understand how brain cells operate by imaging deeper into the brain than previously possible with miniature widefield microscopes.

Roundworms’ egg cells have a backup plan

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 11:25 AM PDT

Researchers discovered a previously unknown mechanism in roundworms that protects their egg cells from division errors. Uncovering and understanding this hidden mechanism could ultimately lead to new strategies for combating infertility in humans.

Planet-scale MRI

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 11:25 AM PDT

Researchers presented the results of efforts to perform global full waveform inversions of the Earth using the Frontera supercomputer. They used data from 300 earthquakes to construct the new global full wave inversion models that include attenuation and azimuthal anisotropy and approach continental-scale resolution. The researchers also recently released a visualization toolbox for large seismic model files and are building a platform for seismic analysis.

Mounds of ice in craters give new insight into Mars’ past climate

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 11:25 AM PDT

Newly discovered deposits of layered ice in craters scattered around Mars' southern hemisphere provide insights into how the planet's orientation controlled the planet's climate over the past 4 million years, according to a new study. The findings help scientists understand what controlled Mars' past climate, which is essential for predicting when the planet could have been habitable.

New software to help discover valuable compounds

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 11:25 AM PDT

Because the comparative metabolomics field lacks sophisticated data analysis tools that are available to genomics and proteomics researchers, metabolomics researchers spend a lot of time hunting for candidate compounds that could be useful as leads for the development of new pharmaceuticals or agrochemicals. To solve this problem, scientists have developed Metaboseek, a free, easy-to-use app that integrates multiple data analysis features for the metabolomics community.

Prior COVID-19 infection linked to robust, accelerated immune response after first vaccine dose, researchers report

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 11:25 AM PDT

Scientists show that responses to the Pfizer-BioNTech BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine differ significantly in individuals based on whether or not they were previously infected with SARS-CoV-2. Notably, those who had COVID before vaccination experienced rapid antibody production after the first vaccine dose, with little or no increase after the second dose. The opposite pattern was observed in infection-naive individuals.

Describing the devastating eruption in Tonga

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 11:25 AM PDT

On January 15, the volcano Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai devastated the nation of Tonga. The eruption triggered tsunamis as far afield as the Caribbean and generated atmospheric waves that travelled around the globe several times. Meanwhile, the volcano's plume shot gas and ash through the stratosphere into the lower mesosphere.

Study finds 10-second videos predict blood cancer relapse

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 11:25 AM PDT

Ten-second videos of white blood cell motion in the skin's microvasculature greatly improved the prediction of which stem cell and bone marrow transplant patients would have a relapse of their blood cancer.

Plastic bag bans may unintentionally drive other bag sales

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 11:23 AM PDT

When cities or counties institute plastic bag bans or fees, the idea is to reduce the amount of plastic headed to the landfill. But a new analysis finds these policies, while created with good intentions, may cause more plastic bags to be purchased in the communities where they are in place.

How accelerated biological aging may cause bowel cancer

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 08:47 AM PDT

Scientists have shown how accelerated biological aging measured by an epigenetic clock may increase the risk of bowel cancer, according to a new report.

Sensor for faster, more accurate COVID-19 tests

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 08:47 AM PDT

Researchers say the sensor combines accuracy levels approaching that of PCR testing with the speed of rapid antigen tests, and could be used for mass testing at airports, schools, and hospitals.

Nature-based carbon removal can help protect us from a warming planet

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 08:47 AM PDT

A new study finds that temporary nature-based carbon removal can lower global peak warming levels but only if complemented by ambitious fossil fuel emission reductions.

Newly discovered drug candidate increased insulin secretion in type 2 diabetes

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 08:47 AM PDT

Researchers have discovered increased levels of of a microRNA in type 2 diabetes, which has a negative effect on insulin secretion. Their experiments on human insulin producing cells in the pancreas also demonstrates that it is possible to increase the insulin secretion by reducing the levels of this microRNA. An important goal of the research is to develop new treatments for people with the disease.

Scientists achieve record efficiency for ultra-thin solar panels

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 08:47 AM PDT

A team has successfully increased the levels of energy absorbed by wafer-thin photovoltaic panels by 25%. Their solar panels, just one micrometer thick, convert light into electricity more efficiently than others as thin and pave the way to make it easier to general more clean, green energy.

Treatment for substance use reduces depression for many adolescents and young adults with both problems

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 08:47 AM PDT

A new study reports that, among youth with substance use and depression, a significant proportion show early improvements in depression during their treatment for substance use. Youth who are using cannabis less frequently prior to treatment and those without conduct disorder are more likely to experience early depression improvement.

Researchers expand target range of CRISPR/Cas Systems

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 08:47 AM PDT

Researchers have created a genome editing technology that allows for slight variations in target DNA but retains local specificity, and which could help realize the potential of CRISPR/Cas-based gene therapy and pathogen diagnosis.

Fuel from waste wood

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 08:47 AM PDT

According to the latest assessment report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, a considerable reduction in CO2 emissions is required to limit the consequences of climate change. Producing fuel from renewable sources such as waste wood and straw or renewable electricity would be one way to reduce carbon emissions from the area of transportation.

Researchers shorten manufacturing time for CAR T cell therapy

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 08:47 AM PDT

A new approach could cut the time it takes to alter patients' immune cells for infusion back into the body to find and attack cancer. The cell manufacturing process for this type of immunotherapy that was pioneered at Penn -- CAR T cell therapy -- typically takes nine to 14 days. In a pre-clinical study, scientists have abbreviated this process and generated functional CAR T cells with enhanced anti-tumor potency in just 24 hours.

Promising Alzheimer's drug may also improve memory in Down syndrome and normal aging

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 08:47 AM PDT

New research is breaking ground in repurposing an FDA-approved drug as a potential treatment in Down syndrome and normal aging. The results suggest that GM-CSF may improve cognitive function in people with Down syndrome. The drug sargramostim (GM-CSF, which stands for granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor) is also the first to show memory improvement in Alzheimer's patients in a phase II clinical trial. GM-CSF is a normal human protein that is safe and well-tolerated with over 30 years of FDA-approved use for other disorders.

Lung damage may persist long after COVID-19 pneumonia

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 08:47 AM PDT

Some people recovering from COVID-19 pneumonia have CT evidence of damage to their lungs that persists a full year after the onset of symptoms, according to a new study.

Spiders use webs to extend their hearing

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 08:47 AM PDT

A newly published study of orb-weaving spiders has yielded some extraordinary results: The spiders are using their webs as extended auditory arrays to capture sounds, possibly giving spiders advanced warning of incoming prey or predators.

How eye imaging technology could help robots and cars see better

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 08:47 AM PDT

Using lessons learned from the eye-imaging technology optical coherence tomography (OCT), engineers have demonstrated a LiDAR system that is fast and accurate enough to potentially improve the vision of autonomous systems such as driverless cars and robotic manufacturing plants.

AI helps radiologists detect bone fractures

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 08:47 AM PDT

Artificial intelligence (AI) is an effective tool for fracture detection that has potential to aid clinicians in busy emergency departments, according to a new study.

Distinct classes of fibroblasts in tumors play opposing roles, promoting or restraining pancreatic cancer growth

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 08:47 AM PDT

Researchers discovered that two distinct classes of fibroblast cells accumulate in pancreatic tumors and play opposing roles to promote and restrain pancreatic cancer growth. Appropriately targeting these cells may offer options to improve treatment outcomes.

Dried avocado meal, a novel fiber source to be added to commercial dog food

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 08:47 AM PDT

Thanks to avocados' rise to superfood stardom, there are now more avocado-derived products in the supply chain than ever. In a unique study, researchers looked at the possibility of using avocado meal -- the ground, dried, and defatted pulp, seed, and skin left over after avocado oil processing -- as a fiber source in dry dog food.

Good hydration may reduce long-term risks for heart failure

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 08:47 AM PDT

Staying well-hydrated may be associated with a reduced risk for developing heart failure. New findings suggest that consuming sufficient amounts of fluids throughout life not only supports essential body functioning but may also reduce the risk of severe heart problems in the future.

Researchers redefine the mechanisms of Dravet syndrome

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 08:46 AM PDT

Researchers have found that dysfunction in an important cell subtype in the brain's neuronal network contribute to chronic symptoms in the neurodevelopmental disorder Dravet syndrome.

New approach needed for forecasting corrosion within bridges, concrete structures

Posted: 29 Mar 2022 08:46 AM PDT

Researchers advocate for a paradigm change in the science of forecasting corrosion damage within reinforced concrete structures. They discuss the severe flaws in using the chloride threshold concept for forecasting corrosion and say change is needed to address the growing challenges of aging structures losing functionality and potentially collapsing, greenhouse gas emissions, and the economy at large. To achieve this, a multiscale, multidisciplinary approach combining scientific and practical contributions from materials science, corrosion science, cement/concrete research, and structural engineering is needed.