ScienceDaily: All - November 22, 2024
Today's top research news
The human heart may have a hidden ability to repair itself
After severe heart failure, the ability of the heart to heal by forming new cells is very low. However, after receiving treatment with a supportive heart pump, the capacity of a damaged heart to repair itself with new muscle cells becomes significantly higher, even higher than in a healthy heart.
Image: Philip Steury Photography/Shutterstock.com
How Golgi stress affects T-cells' tumor-fighting ability
Researchers investigating ways to reduce exhaustion in cancer-fighting T-cells found that the Golgi apparatus can be used as a simple marker -- more Golgi means a more robust cell.
New gene drive reverses insecticide resistance in pests... then disappears
Geneticists have developed a gene drive-based solution to the widespread problem of insecticide resistance. In an effort to protect valuable crops, the researchers created an 'e-Drive' that reverses insecticide resistance and then disappears from the insect population.
3D-printing advance mitigates three defects simultaneously for failure-free metal parts
Engineers have found a way to simultaneously mitigate three types of defects in parts produced using a prominent additive manufacturing technique called laser powder bed fusion.
Peaches spread across North America through Indigenous networks
Spanish explorers may have brought the first peach pits to North America, but Indigenous communities helped the ubiquitous summer fruit really take root, according to a new study.
Engineered additive makes low-cost renewable energy storage a possibility
As part of an effort to overcome the long-term energy-storage challenge, engineers have invented a water-soluble chemical additive that improves the performance of a type of electrochemical storage called a bromide aqueous flow battery.
Early Mesoamericans trapped fish far earlier than previously thought
Archaeologists have collected data which indicates the presence of a large-scale pre-Columbian fish-trapping facility. Discovered in the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary (CTWS), the largest inland wetland in Belize, the team dated the construction of these fisheries to the Late Archaic period (cal. 2000-1900 BCE), pre-dating Amazonian examples by a thousand years or more.
New insights into sleep uncover key mechanisms related to cognitive function
While it's well known that sleep enhances cognitive performance, the underlying neural mechanisms, particularly those related to nonrapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, remain largely unexplored. A new study has nonetheless uncovered a key mechanism by which sleep enhances neuronal and behavioral performance, potentially changing our fundamental understanding of how sleep boosts brainpower.
Researchers develop an efficient way to train more reliable AI agents
Researchers developed an efficient approach for training more reliable reinforcement learning models, focusing on complex tasks that involve variability. This could enable the leverage of reinforcement learning across a wide range of applications.
Scientists identify key mechanism in development of skin cancer
Researchers have discovered how the interplay between a key protein and an endolysosomal ion channel promotes tumor development in skin cancer.
New model of neuronal circuit provides insight on eye movement
Working with week-old zebrafish larva, researchers decoded how the connections formed by a network of neurons in the brainstem guide the fishes' gaze. The study found that a simplified artificial circuit, based on the architecture of this neuronal system, can predict activity in the network. In addition to shedding light on how the brain handles short-term memory, the findings could lead to novel approaches for treating eye movement disorders.
Cooking up a breakthrough: Engineers refine lipid nanoparticles for better mRNA therapies
Engineers have cooked up a new way to improve mRNA delivery, developing an optimal 'recipe' for ionizable lipids -- key ingredients in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), the molecules behind the COVID-19 vaccines and other innovative therapies. The method mirrors the iterative process of developing a culinary dish and may lead to safer, more effective mRNA vaccines and therapeutics.
Standing at work can be detrimental to blood pressure
A new study found that prolonged standing at work had a negative impact on the research participants' 24-hour blood pressure. In contrast, spending more time sitting at work was associated with better blood pressure. The study suggests that activity behavior during working hours may be more relevant to 24-hour blood pressure than recreational physical activity.
A groundbreaking new approach to treating chronic abdominal pain
A research team has developed a new class of oral peptide therapeutic leads for treating chronic abdominal pain. This groundbreaking innovation offers a safe, non-opioid-based solution for conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), which affect millions of people worldwide.
Probiotic may counteract fire-retardant chemical damage
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers, or PBDEs, are fire-retardant chemicals that are found everywhere. A mouse study reports that probiotic supplementation can reduce the negative impacts of PBDEs on neurodevelopment, behavior, and metabolism.
Scientists have revealed how a specific hormone regulates ant caste differentiation by phenotypic measurements of organ-level developmental changes and matching transcriptome analyses.
In an era of dwindling glaciers, Southern Patagonia has managed to hold on to a surprising amount of its ice. But, a new study suggests that this protective effect might be pushed up against its limits soon.
Scientists develop groundbreaking method for detecting DNA of invasive snakes in Florida
Scientists have developed a pioneering tool that can pinpoint where invasive species have been, aiding eradication efforts.
Study on gene regulation with surprising results
Some sequences in the genome cause genes to be switched on or off. Until now, each of these gene switches, or so-called enhancers, was thought to have its own place on the DNA. Different enhancers are therefore separated from each other, even if they control the same gene, and switch it on in different parts of the body. A recent study challenges this idea. The findings are also important because gene switches are thought to play a central role in evolution.
3.2 million km/h galaxy smash-up
A massive collision of galaxies sparked by one travelling at a scarcely-believable 2 million mph (3.2 million km/h) has been seen in unprecedented detail by one of Earth's most powerful telescopes. The dramatic impact was observed in Stephan's Quintet, a nearby galaxy group made up of five galaxies first sighted almost 150 years ago. It sparked an immensely powerful shock akin to a 'sonic boom from a jet fighter' -- the likes of which are among the most striking phenomena in the Universe.
From food crops to cancer clinics: Lessons in extermination resistance
Researchers explore how established agricultural pest management strategies could be adapted to address cancer therapy. The pioneering method opens new possibilities for controlling drug resistance and improving patient survival.
Your child, the sophisticated language learner
Sentences contain subtle hints in their grammar that tell young children about the meaning of new words, according to new research.
Quantum-inspired design boosts efficiency of heat-to-electricity conversion
Researchers have found a new way to improve a key element of thermophotovoltaic systems, which convert heat into electricity via light. Engineers designed a thermal emitter that can deliver high efficiencies within practical design parameters.
Scientists find a region of the mouse gut tightly regulated by the immune system
Researchers have analyzed the entire mouse intestine, mapping gene expression and cell states and location in the healthy gut and in response to perturbations such as inflammation. They identified tight regulation of cell types and states in different regions of the organ, as well as a unique segment of the colon that is controlled by immune signals. The findings reveal the surprising adaptability and resilience of the intestine to perturbations and highlight the importance of considering how cell processes are regulated and vary across different parts of a tissue or organ.
Snoring linked to behavioral problems in adolescents without declines in cognition
Adolescents who snore frequently were more likely to exhibit behavior problems such as inattention, rule-breaking, and aggression, but they do not have any decline in their cognitive abilities, according to a new study. This is the largest study to date tracking snoring in children from elementary school through their mid-teen years and it provides an important update to parents struggling with what medical measures to take to help manage snoring in their children.
Confidence drives feedback-seeking behavior: Insights into learning and motivation
New research reveals how low confidence drives feedback-seeking, enhancing learning with insights for education and rehabilitation strategies.
Study uncovers potential new target for treatment of chronic, debilitating skin disease
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is an immune disease that affects up to 4% of the global population and causes painful, recurring skin lesions and inflammation, primarily in the folds of the skin. It commonly affects women of African American descent.
Less cold: Ocean cold period in the early 20th century less pronounced than previously thought
A new study shows that the oceans were less cold in the early 20th century (1900--1930) than previously thought. During this period the ocean appears too cold due to the way some measurements were taken. This makes global ocean surface temperature measurements during this period inconsistent with both land air temperatures and palaeoclimatic data and the differences between land and ocean are larger than shown in climate models.
Distractions significantly delay remote drivers' reaction time
Distractions slow the reaction time of automated vehicle remote drivers by over five seconds, new research has shown.
Innovating archaeology: Scholars utilize immersive 3D tech to document and study the human past
Archaeology studies the human past through the excavation of things people made and used thousands of years ago -- from architecture to objects like pottery bowls and animal bones from meals. Although many excavation projects create digital 3D models of what they uncover, archaeologists need new ways to meaningfully use those data. Some projects share 3D models with the public as tourism and teaching tools -- one may have recently seen 3D displays at museums. However, archaeologists themselves have not yet taken full advantage of these models in their own fieldwork and research. That is about to change.
Less than 50% of many prenatal supplements have the adequate amount of choline and iodine
New research reveals many prenatal vitamins don't contain enough of the nutrients that are essential for a healthy pregnancy, while others contain harmful levels of toxic metals. The study checked the amounts of choline and iodine in nonprescription and prescription prenatal vitamins. The research also checked for toxic metals like arsenic, lead and cadmium. The researchers tested a sample of 47 different prenatal vitamins (32 nonprescription and 15 prescription products) bought from online and local stores where people commonly shop. They then measured the actual amounts of choline and iodine in their lab versus what was on the label and also checked for arsenic, lead and cadmium. They compared their findings with official safety standards within 20% of the claimed amount.
Florida panthers deemed unaffected by emerging fatal genetic condition
Biologists have determined that Florida panthers are likely not at increased risk for contracting chronic wasting disease from eating infected deer.
A nearby supernova could end the search for dark matter
Axions are the most likely candidate for enigmatic dark matter that dominates the universe. Astrophysicists are searching for evidence of high-mass axions produced during supernovae. Scientists propose that a quick way to find these axions is to look for a gamma ray burst coincident with a neutrino burst from a nearby core collapse supernova. But we need a fleet of gamma ray telescopes to insure we capture these rare events.
Chemists create world's thinnest 'spaghetti'
The world's thinnest spaghetti, about 200 times thinner than a human hair, has been created.
Empowering neuroscience: Large open brain models released
Scientists have developed the largest and most detailed computational models of rat hippocampal and somatosensory cortex regions to date. They have released these models and the tools for their use to the public.
Scientists implicate a novel cellular protein in hepatitis A infection
Scientists have long been trying to tease apart hepatitis A virus, to understand its inner workings and how it functions in the human body. Infectious disease researchers have discovered that a little-known protein, PDGFA-associated protein 1 (PDAP1), is used as a pawn by hepatitis A virus to replicate and infect cells in the liver.
Fewer than 7% of global hotspots for whale-ship collisions have protection measures in place
A new study has quantified the risk for whale-ship collisions worldwide for four geographically widespread ocean giants that are threatened by shipping: blue, fin, humpback and sperm whales. Researchers report that global shipping traffic overlaps with about 92% of these whale species' ranges. Only about 7% of areas at highest risk for whale-ship collisions have any measures in place to protect whales from this threat. These measures include speed reductions, both mandatory and voluntary, for ships crossing waters that overlap with whale migration or feeding areas.
Researchers identify previously unknown compound in drinking water
Researchers have reported the discovery of a previously unknown compound in chloraminated drinking water. Inorganic chloramines are commonly used to disinfect drinking water to safeguard public health from diseases like cholera and typhoid fever.
New imaging method enables detailed RNA analysis of the whole brain
Researchers have developed a groundbreaking microscopy method that enables detailed three-dimensional (3D) RNA analysis at cellular resolution in whole intact mouse brains. The new method, called TRISCO, has the potential to transform our understanding of brain function, both in normal conditions and in disease, according to the new study.
Stability of perovskite solar cells doubled with protective coating
Scientists have developed a new protective coating that significantly extends the life of perovskite solar cells, making them more practical for applications outside the lab.
New hope for diabetic heart disease treatment
Drug discovery researchers have found that a natural fat molecule called 'lipoxin A4' (LXA4) could significantly reduce inflammation and improve function for diabetic hearts.
Single gene causes embryo notochord deformity in zebrafish
Researchers confirm using zebrafish that if a certain gene is not excluded when vertebrate embryos are developing, the notochord will not elongate properly, resulting in a shortened form.
Signals of inflammation during pregnancy linked to aging and memory changes 50 years later
A new study analyzed data from participants who have been followed for over 50 years, starting before their births. Researchers found that maternal immune activity during a critical period of sex-dependent brain development in pregnancy affected the offspring's long-term memory circuitry and function in childhood and midlife, with different patterns for males and females.
Study reveals how cell types shape human brain networks
Researchers have uncovered how different types of brain cells work together to form large-scale functional networks in the human brain -- interconnected systems that support everything from sensory processing to complex decision-making -- paving the way for new insights into brain health and disease.
New genetic explanation for heart condition revealed
A potentially life-changing heart condition, dilated cardiomyopathy, can be caused by the cumulative influence of hundreds or thousands of genes and not just by a single 'aberrant' genetic variant, as was previously thought, finds a new study.
Climate-driven hazards increases risk for millions of coastal residents, study finds
A new study estimates that a 1-meter sea level rise by 2100 would affect over 14 million people and $1 trillion worth of property along the Southeast Atlantic coast.
Females sleep less, awaken more frequently than males
A new animal study shows that males and females have profoundly different sleep patterns. The findings shed light on what may drive differences in humans and have broad implications for preclinical research that, for decades, has focused primarily on males.
Tantrums in young children could be linked to ADHD, study finds
Preschool children who struggle to control their emotions and behaviour have more symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder -- known as ADHD -- at age seven, a study suggests. Children aged between three and seven who are slower at acquiring skills to manage their intense emotions were also found to be at risk of displaying more conduct issues. They were also more likely to show internalising behaviours, such as sadness and worries, at age seven, experts say.
Environmental impacts of plastics: Moving beyond the perspective on waste
The fact that plastics pollute the environment and generate problems has been well-researched in many areas. However, there is little information on the impacts of plastics on climate and biodiversity. Researchers have analyzed the impacts of plastics on the three planetary crises of climate change, biodiversity loss and environmental pollution. They are calling for plastics regulations that account for the multifaceted impacts of plastics in these three crises.
Parkinson's drug changes the gut microbiome for the worse due to iron deficiency
In a groundbreaking new study scientists have revealed that the widely prescribed Parkinson's disease drug entacapone significantly disrupts the human gut microbiome by inducing iron deficiency. The study, provides new insights into the often-overlooked impact of human-targeted drugs on the microbial communities that play a critical role in human health.
Engineering nature's blueprint: Dendron-based assemblies for chlorophyll's materials
Chlorophyll (a naturally occurring pigment involved in photosynthesis)-inspired molecules hold promise for developing next-generation light-harvesting materials. However, achieving precise control over their assembly is challenging. Researchers have now revealed that attaching dendrons -- branched, tree-like structures -- can aid in self-assembly of chlorophyll's materials. They found that smaller dendrons lead to stacked, fiber-like structures, while larger dendrons create spherical chlorophyll particles, advancing the development of materials that mimic the light-harvesting efficiency of natural photosynthetic systems.
Astronomers take the first close-up picture of a star outside our galaxy
While astronomers have taken about two dozen zoomed-in images of stars in our galaxy, unveiling their properties, countless other stars dwell within other galaxies, so far away that observing even one of them in detail has been extremely challenging. Up until now.
Here's something Americans agree on: Sports build character
In a polarized nation, there is one thing that nearly all Americans agree on, according to a recent study: sports are good for us. Researchers found that more than 9 out of 10 Americans agreed that sports build character and improved one's health, while 84% agreed playing sports makes one popular in school and 85% said it makes one more well-known in the community.
Discovery explains kidney damage caused by blood pressure drugs
Scientists have discovered how long-term treatment of high blood pressure with commonly prescribed drugs can destroy the kidney's ability to filter and purify blood. The finding could open the door to better ways to manage high blood pressure and other vascular diseases.
DNA repair: A look inside the cell's 'repair café'
New research sheds light on how cells repair damaged DNA. For the first time, the team has mapped the activity of repair proteins in individual human cells. The study demonstrates how these proteins collaborate in so-called 'hubs' to repair DNA damage. This knowledge offers opportunities to improve cancer therapies and other treatments where DNA repair is essential.
How anti-obesity drugs are linked to food waste
Taking anti-obesity drugs has led some U.S. adults to throw away more food than they tossed before starting the medications, a new study has found.
These wild chimpanzees play as adults to better cooperate as a group
Compared to children, adults don't play as much, but social play into adulthood is considered a universal human trait. Play has a role in building tolerance, cohesion, bonding, and cooperation. By comparison, play in adults of other species has been considered rare, and yet a new study shows that some chimpanzees, like people, continue to play often throughout their entire lives and especially before engaging in acts that require collective cooperation.
New method for designing artificial proteins
Protein design aims to create customized antibodies for therapies, biosensors for diagnostics, or enzymes for chemical reactions. An international research team has now developed a method for designing large new proteins better than before and producing them with the desired properties in the laboratory. Their approach involves a new way of using the capabilities of the AI-based software Alphafold2, for which the Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded in 2024.
Design and imagination as essential tools during the climate crisis
Researchers advocate the use of imagination in tackling the climate crisis. They focus specifically on urbanizing river deltas, which are of great social and economic importance and highly vulnerable to climate change.
Oldest known alphabet unearthed in ancient Syrian city
Researchers have discovered evidence of the oldest alphabetic writing in human history. The writing was etched onto clay cylinders discovered during a dig at an ancient Syrian city.
You might like my take on the Parkinson's Disease drug study you mentioned.
https://geoffpain.substack.com/p/parkinsons-disease-drug-lethality