Water should be a human right
The World Health Organization estimates that 2.8 billion people will face water stress or scarcity by 2025. Access to clean water can reduce global disease burden and is essential for health.
Science News Archive June 2009
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Gene map aims to combat blood flukes
Researchers created a genetic linkage map for S. mansoni, a blood fluke infecting 90 million people in Africa and the New World. The map will facilitate high-resolution population genetic studies and improve understanding of transmission patterns.
Penn State researchers receive $1.2 million MURI grant
Researchers at Penn State's Center for Network-Centric Cognition and Information Fusion are working on a $1.2 million MURI grant to develop unified research on network-based hard/soft information fusion. The team will use data from various sources, including cell phones and social media sites, to improve data fusion capabilities.
Pitt researchers describe the 90-year evolution of swine flu
Pitt researchers describe the 90-year evolution of H1N1 swine flu, tracing its genetic roots back to a 1918 respiratory illness in pigs. The current strain shares common ancestry with older flu strains, potentially offering partial immunity to new pandemic viruses.
New tool finds best heart disease and stroke treatments for patients with diabetes
Researchers developed a computer model to help medical doctors choose the optimal time to begin statin therapy in diabetes patients, reducing cardiovascular risk. The new model incorporates patient-specific data and accounts for the progression of diabetes and cost-benefit analysis.
How much is life worth? The $440 billion question
A recent study highlights the immense economic burden of life-extending cancer treatments in the US, estimated to be over $400 billion annually. The authors argue that interventions with survival advantages of two months or less should be prioritized to address this issue.
Tunnel vision
The US Department of Homeland Security is developing a new technology using ground-penetrating radar to detect tunnels along the US border. This innovative system will help agents locate and plug tunnels almost as fast as criminals can dig them, reducing the threat of drug smuggling, human trafficking, and terrorist attacks.
Study of flower color shows evolution in action
Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have identified genes that regulate flower color change, revealing a predictable pattern of evolution. The study found that hawkmoths prefer white or yellow flowers over red ones, driving natural selection to shift flower colors.
2 is not company -- as far as fish are concerned
Research finds fish kept alone or with one companion show increased aggression, while larger groups exhibit natural behaviors like shoaling. The study aims to establish welfare guidelines for home aquaria by examining healthy stocking densities and novel object use.
Ozone depletes oil seed rape productivity
High ozone conditions decrease oilseed rape yield by 30% and increase toxic glucosinolate compounds, affecting crop resistance and animal fodder quality. This could lead to significant income loss for farmers and impact human health in future climates.
No evidence that WHO-recommended treatment for insecticide poisoning improves survival
A clinical trial in Sri Lanka found no significant improvement in survival rates among patients treated with the WHO-recommended antidote pralidoxime, suggesting it may be harmful. Further trials are needed to explore the risks and benefits of oximes and dosing regimens.
Conversing helps language development more than reading alone
A new UCLA study found that conversing with children is more effective in promoting language development than just reading to them. The study, which measured the effects of adult-child conversations on language development, found that back-and-forth conversation was strongly associated with future improvements in the child's language s...
Natural-born divers and the molecular traces of evolution
Researchers found marine mammals have higher myoglobin solubility due to increased net positive charge, and stronger divers have more histidine, aiding lactic acid management. This adaptation helps marine mammals cope with aquatic life demands.
Risk of cancer
Researchers identified a novel mechanism linking a common single-base variant in chromosome 8 to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. This variant is carried by nearly all African populations and contributes significantly to the disease at a population level, yet its impact on individual susceptibility is minimal.
Ovarian transplantation: First baby is born after a new technique
A new ovarian transplantation technique has successfully restored fertility in two patients who had lost their ovaries due to cancer treatment. The two-step procedure involves grafting small pieces of frozen ovarian tissue before the main transplant, allowing for faster recovery of ovarian function and improved response to stimulation.
Toxic chemicals affect steroid hormones differently in humans and invertebrates
A study by French and American scientists found that enzyme synthesis of steroids in humans is unrelated to those in insects, snails, octopuses, and corals. This discovery suggests a 'snail-centered viewpoint' for understanding the effects of environmental chemicals on steroid synthesis.
Peptic ulcer bacterium alters the body's defense system
A study from the University of Gothenburg reveals Helicobacter pylori manipulates immune cells to develop a chronic infection. The bacterium also increases regulatory T cells in the stomach lining, which may lead to new treatments against peptic ulcers and stomach cancer.
Hand-held aerosol sensors help fill crucial data gap over oceans
The Maritime Aerosol Network (MAN) initiative uses portable photometers to measure aerosol concentrations over the oceans, contradicting satellite measurements at high latitudes. Researchers hope to improve confidence in aerosol measurements to better predict climate responses to global temperature increases.
Female human embryos adjust the balance of X chromosomes before implantation
Researchers found that human female embryos inactivate one X chromosome prior to implantation, which may affect laboratory culture conditions and embryo survival. This process is thought to have remained unchanged throughout evolution and has implications for human embryonic stem cell research.
Mice run faster on high-grade oil
Research finds that mice fed sunflower oil (n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids) run faster than those on linseed oil (n-3 fatty acids), achieving a 6.3% boost in sprint speed. This effect is significant for small mammals, such as mice and their predators.
Black gay men may be at increased HIV risk
Black gay men are more likely to have tightly interconnected sexual networks, increasing the rapid spread of HIV. Social barriers and racism contribute to these networks, perpetuating health disparities among Black gay men.
Retinopathy of prematurity diagnosis time significantly reduced using telemedicine
A recent study shows that telemedicine can diagnose retinopathy of prematurity faster than traditional bedside ophthalmoscopy. By reducing travel and communication time, telemedicine can improve the efficiency of care for ophthalmologists.
71 projects fill DOE Joint Genome Institute 2010 pipeline
The DOE JGI has selected 71 new genomic sequencing projects for its 2010 Community Sequencing Program, focused on bioenergy, climate, and environmental applications. The program aims to improve the clean energy pathways and understanding of the global carbon cycle.
Breakthrough in combating the side effects of quinine
Researchers at University of Nottingham found that quinine blocks cell's ability to take up tryptophan, a key amino acid. Dietary tryptophan supplements may improve quinine performance and combat side effects.
Birds with a nose for a difference
Researchers found that most pairs of black-legged kittiwakes avoid inbreeding more often than chance, suggesting they can detect relatives in large populations. Inbred pairs produced fewer hatching eggs and chicks with lower survival rates.
Leeds engineers developing bulletproof vests from cement
The University of Leeds is working on a new type of body armor made from cement, combining super-strong cement with recycled carbon fibre materials to create a material tough enough to withstand most types of bullets. The project aims to provide cost-effective protection for people at risk, such as security guards and reporters.
Teens who believe they'll die young are more likely to engage in risky behavior, University of Minnesota research finds
A study by University of Minnesota researcher Iris Borowsky found that one in seven adolescents believe they will die before age 35, predicting increased risk-taking behaviors. Those who believed they'd die young were more likely to engage in risky behaviors and have poor health outcomes.
UNC scientists tackle viral mysteries
Researchers discover that a secondary viral infection can trigger the reactivation of Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), leading to uncontrolled cell growth and potentially developing into cancer. Activation of specific toll-like receptors allows the virus to replicate, spreading throughout the body.
From human bite to robot jaws
Researchers developed a biologically-inspired robot, the Chewing Robot, to study dental wear formation on human teeth. The robot replicates natural bite forces and movements, allowing for improved testing of new dental materials.
Debate on administration of magnesium sulfate to pregnant women to prevent cerebral palsy in preterm infants
Researchers found evidence that magnesium sulfate administration significantly reduces the risk of cerebral palsy in children at risk. However, a roundtable discussion highlighted the need for further clarification on its use due to conflicting results from well-designed trials and observational studies.
MIT: Extending the shelf life of antibody drugs
A new computer model developed at MIT allows researchers to design more stable antibodies, reducing clumping and aggregation issues. The model identifies regions responsible for aggregation and enables mutation of amino acids to increase stability without affecting function.
New biomarker method could increase the number of diagnostic tests for cancer
A new method detects protein biomarkers in body fluids, increasing the number of diagnostic tests for cancer. The technique is highly reproducible across laboratories and instruments, allowing for early cancer detection.
Study could help target new pancreatitis treatments
Researchers have discovered that deleting specific genes can significantly reduce toxic calcium release in pancreatic cells, which can trigger pancreatitis. The study's findings may lead to the development of more effective treatments for the disease, particularly those related to excessive drinking.
Intestinal cells surprisingly active in pursuit of nutrition and defense
A study by McConnell et al. reveals that intestinal microvilli extend their function beyond nutrient absorption, releasing vesicles packed with enzymes into the gut lumen for enhanced nutrient breakdown and defense against pathogens like lipopolysaccharide
New crops needed for new climate
Research finds increased toxic compounds and decreased protein content in plants grown under high CO2 and drought conditions. Cassava yields may also be affected, highlighting the need for new crop cultivars to address future climate change.
Oscar Pistorius: Previously confidential study results released on amputee sprinter
The study found that Pistorius' energy cost of running is similar to accomplished male distance runners but 17% lower than performance-matched sprinters. His ability to hold speed over longer sprint races is identical to intact-limb athletes, but his sprinting mechanics are dissimilar.
Mayo Clinic Proceedings reviews deep brain stimulation to treat psychiatric diseases
A review in Mayo Clinic Proceedings suggests that deep brain stimulation (DBS) may be an effective treatment for hard-to-treat depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The therapy, which involves stimulating specific parts of the brain, has shown early results with a beneficial effect on these conditions.
Scientific system accurately predicts spread of H1N1: study
A scientific system developed by St. Michael's Hospital accurately predicted the international spread of H1N1 by analyzing flight itineraries of over 2.3 million passengers. The system, known as The BIO.DIASPORA Project, quickly integrated information on worldwide air traffic patterns with global infectious disease threats.
Straighten up and fly right: Moths benefit more from flexible wings than rigid
Researchers at the University of Washington have found that flexible moths' wings are better suited for flight due to their ability to generate more lift and airflow velocity. This discovery challenges traditional assumptions about wing structure and function in insects.
IU researchers find vibrator use to be common, linked to sexual health
Vibrator use is prevalent among adult Americans, reported by 53% of women and 45% of men, associated with positive sexual function and proactive sexual health care. The studies also found no significant differences in vibrator use between heterosexual and gay/bisexual men.
Early heart attack therapy with bone marrow extract improves cardiac function
A study published by UCSF researchers found that bone marrow extract is as effective as bone marrow stem cells in improving cardiac function, decreasing scar tissue, and pumping capacity after a heart attack. Both therapies resulted in increased blood vessels and reduced cardiac cell death, showing promise for new treatments.
Scripps research scientists find key culprits in lupus
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have identified three proteins called Toll-like receptors as necessary for the autodestruction that occurs in autoimmune diseases like lupus. The study suggests that these TLRs may be good targets for therapy, potentially leading to new treatments for lupus and other autoimmune diseases.
Dino tooth sheds new light on ancient riddle
A new study by the University of Leicester has found evidence that duck-billed dinosaurs, such as Hadrosaurs, had a unique way of eating. The researchers used microscopic analysis of scratches on dinosaur teeth to understand their feeding mechanisms and place them in ancient ecosystems.
New MRI technique could mean fewer breast biopsies in high-risk women
A new MRI technique developed by UW-Madison researchers has the potential to reduce breast biopsies in high-risk women. The technology allows radiologists to visually identify cancerous lesions based on characteristics such as shape and smoothness of edges. This could lead to fewer unnecessary biopsies and improved patient outcomes.
Prostate screening studies reviewed in European Urology July issue
The July issue of European Urology reviews prostate cancer screening studies, highlighting the need to balance mortality reduction with overdiagnosis risks. The EAU adopts the conclusions of the ERSPC study and recognizes the benefit of screening for mortality reduction.
New research shows a global trend in nature-based tourism
A new study found that many nations are seeing an annual increase in visitors to their conservation areas, with visitor numbers rising by as much as 7 or 8 per cent per year in some countries. The research suggests that nature-based tourism remains extremely popular and is growing quickly in most places.
World's largest aerosol sensing network has leafy origins
The Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) is the world's largest network of ground-based sensors for aerosols, crucial to understanding Earth's climate. AERONET was born from a need to study vegetation using satellites, but Holben shifted focus to aerosols, leading to a better understanding of their role in climate change.
Placebo effects in caregivers may change behavior of children with ADHD
A recent review suggests that when caregivers believe their ADHD patients are receiving medication, they tend to view those children more favorably and treat them more positively. This placebo effect may influence how parents and teachers evaluate and behave toward children with ADHD.
GIE: Gastrointestinal Endoscopy June issue study highlights
A study published in GIE: Gastrointestinal Endoscopy examined polyp detection rates at screening colonoscopy and identified factors contributing to variability. Procedure time was found to be significantly associated with polyp detection rates across all models, indicating the need for quality standards for colonoscopy performance.
ASU scientist: Study of first wave of swine flu requires revised public health strategies
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reveals an age shift in swine flu cases, with younger populations (5-59 years) being disproportionately affected. The findings suggest a need for revised public health strategies to mitigate the impact of future pandemic waves.
MIT: A new approach to engineering for extreme environments
Researchers develop nanocomposite materials that can endure high temperatures, radiation, and extreme mechanical loading. The ultimate goal is to use these materials in energy applications including nuclear power, fuel cells, solar energy, and carbon sequestration.
Interferon gamma-1b does not improve survival in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
A large randomized controlled trial found that interferon gamma-1b does not improve survival in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The study of 826 patients with mild-to-moderate lung function impairment showed no benefit from the treatment, but more side effects were observed.
Peer pressure plays major role in environmental behavior
A new study published in PNAS found that social norms have significant impacts on the sustainability of conservation investments. The research showed that people are more likely to enroll in conservation programs if their neighbors do so, highlighting the power of peer pressure in environmental behavior.
Little-known marine decomposers attract the attention of genome sequencers
The Joint Genome Institute will sequence four species of labyrinthulomycetes, shedding light on their ecological role and potential applications. The organisms are single-celled marine decomposers that play a crucial part in the marine carbon cycle.
Scientists create first electronic quantum processor
Researchers at Yale University have successfully created a rudimentary solid-state quantum processor, performing simple algorithms like a search and demonstrating quantum information processing with a solid-state device for the first time. The team's achievement marks a significant step towards building a practical quantum computer.
Golimumab shows promising results in patients with rheumatoid arthritis who have poor response to other drugs
Researchers found that golimumab significantly improved symptoms and function in patients with rheumatoid arthritis who had previously failed other treatments. A total of 35% of patients on 50mg golimumab and 38% on 100mg achieved a 20% improvement in symptoms, compared to 18% on placebo.
ESHRE launches international study of polar body screening
The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) has launched an international study to investigate the efficacy of polar body screening in preimplantation genetic testing. The study aims to determine whether this novel method offers a possible solution for improving IVF treatment outcomes.
Plant protein 'doorkeepers' block invading microbes, study finds
Researchers identified a complex of proteins in Arabidopsis that play important roles in recognizing and blocking out invading bacteria. The study provides insights into plants' immune systems and may help protect agricultural crops from diseases.
Singapore nanotechnology combats fatal brain infections
Researchers have developed novel peptide nanoparticles that effectively seek out and destroy bacteria and fungal cells causing fatal brain infections. The nanoparticles can traverse the blood-brain barrier, offering a superior alternative to existing treatments for brain infections.
New trigger for chronic inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis discovered
A new study published in Nature Medicine suggests that the signal molecule tenascin-C can trigger chronic inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. High levels of tenascin-C in joints may cause the activated immune system to attack and lead to persistent inflammation.