Tracking marine animal travel
A new PLoS collection highlights ways scientists use a large tracking network to trace marine mammal movement. The system detects animals as they cross detection lines, providing data on their behavior and survival.
Science News for August 31, 2010
IceCube neutrino observatory nears completion
The IceCube observatory, located beneath Antarctic ice, aims to detect high-energy neutrinos and unravel the mysteries of cosmic rays. With its massive size and sensitive instrumentation, IceCube will help scientists understand the nature of dark matter and the universe's most violent events.
NSU receives $1.6 million grant to prepare oil workers for spills
NSU's Center for Bioterrorism and All-Hazards Preparedness has received a $1.6 million grant to train oil workers, law enforcement, and others in handling hazardous materials and responding to oil spills. The five-year project aims to provide safety and health training to thousands of employees across various industries.
The neural basis of the depressive self
Depression is associated with dysfunction of specific brain regions involved in cognitive control and emotional response, particularly the medial prefrontal cortex. Persistent abnormalities after treatment may indicate a need for complementary therapy.
Health advice from pharmacists saves hundreds of millions of euros
A survey conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers and the Association of Finnish Pharmacies found that pharmacists' free professional services saved €565 million per year in Finland. This includes reducing 6.2 million general practitioner visits, 750,000 emergency visits, and 123,000 hospital nights.
Marine animals suggest evidence for a trans-Antarctic seaway
A study published in Global Change Biology found similarities in bryozoan species on the continental shelves of the Ross and Weddell seas, separated by the West Antarctic Ice Sheet. This suggests that these regions were connected by a trans-Antarctic seaway in the recent past, possibly as recently as 125,000 years ago.
Reading Arabic isn't easy
A series of studies published in Neuropsychology found that Arabic's visual complexity affects the right hemisphere's role in decoding text. Reading acquisition in Arabic is harder due to its unique script, requiring more practice and pedagogic effort.
System for eliminating salt may point to new antihypertensives
A team of scientists is investigating the role of endothelin in salt excretion to develop new antihypertensive therapies. They are studying rats deficient in B receptors, which can lead to unbalanced salt levels and hypertension.
Physical activity can reduce the genetic predisposition to obesity by 40 percent
A new study found that physical activity can reduce the genetic predisposition to obesity by 40% in individuals with a higher genetic risk. The research, published in PLOS Medicine, suggests that even people at greater genetic risk of obesity can benefit from adopting a healthy lifestyle.
Babies born past term associated with increased risk of cerebral palsy
Infants born at 37-38 weeks or after 42 weeks have a higher risk of cerebral palsy compared to those delivered at 40 weeks. The risk is significantly higher for babies born at 37 weeks, with a 3.7 times increased risk of cerebral palsy.
Obesity, diabetes epidemics continue to grow in California, UCLA study finds
A UCLA study found that obesity and diabetes prevalence significantly increased in California between 2001 and 2007, with no racial or economic segment unscathed. The study recommends increasing access to recreational facilities, parks, and promoting healthy food options to combat these conditions.
Analysis sees higher death rate for very low-birth-weight infants born at less-specialized hospitals
A meta-analysis of previous research reveals that very low-birth-weight and very preterm infants have a higher likelihood of neonatal and predischarge death when born at less-specialized hospitals. The study found a significant increase in mortality rates for these high-risk infants, emphasizing the importance of hospital level of care.
New discovery suggests our lungs are 'innately prone' to silicosis and related diseases
A new study published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology suggests that our innate immune systems are a major contributor to chronic lung diseases like silicosis. Researchers found that mice with an inactive adaptive immune system developed more severe silicosis, highlighting the importance of reducing chronic inflammation.
SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateAug 31, 2010
Success stops drug trial
The AVERROES study found that apixaban was superior to aspirin for preventing stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation, with a relative risk reduction of over 50% and a small increase in bleeding risk. The study's results will reduce the burden of stroke in society.
York U researcher finds new bee in downtown Toronto
A York University doctoral student has identified 19 new species of sweat bees in Canada, including one found in downtown Toronto. The study provides valuable insights into bee diversity and the evolution of social behavior in insects.
The impact of new media and technology on customer relationships
The study reveals that new media platforms empower customers as market players, influencing attitudes and behaviors. Companies must adapt marketing approaches to match the characteristics of these platforms.
Home-based intervention may provide some benefit to patients with dementia and their caregivers
A home-based intervention targeting modifiable stressors improved outcomes for patients with dementia and their caregivers at 4 months, but not at 9 months. The COPE program boosted functionality, reduced caregiver burden, and enhanced well-being.
New study suggests migration does not bring happiness
A new study from the University of Leicester found that economic migrants may experience disappointment despite seeking a 'better life', as their aspirations increase at least as much as their incomes. The research suggests that migrants are less happy than natives and that money is not the most important factor for happiness.
University of Colorado students, staff help NASA decommission satellite
CU-Boulder undergraduates and staff successfully decommissioned the Ice, Cloud and Land Elevation Satellite (ICESat) after seven years of operation. The team, led by LASP professionals, uploaded commands to burn the remaining fuel and switched off the transmitter, bringing the satellite safely into Earth re-entry.
Prophylactic surgeries associated with lower risk of cancer for women with BRCA1/2 gene mutations
Prophylactic mastectomy and salpingo-oophorectomy significantly reduce breast and ovarian cancer risks in women with BRCA1/2 mutations. The study found that risk-reducing mastectomy decreased breast cancer risk, while salpingo-oophorectomy lowered ovarian cancer risk.
Tiny rulers to measure nanoscale structures
Physicists at China's Wuhan University discovered a new way to measure absolute distances and distance changes using a plasmon ruler. By combining nanospheres with a nanorod dimer, they found that the resonance wavelength shift increases linearly with the increasing of a nanosphere's interparticle separations.
Children raised by gay couples show good progress through school
A Stanford University study finds that children of gay and married couples have lower grade-repetition rates than their peers in other family environments. This research challenges common assertions that children of same-sex couples cannot thrive, providing new data to the debate on gay marriage.
UTHealth neuroscientist wins prominent NIH Director's Pioneer Award
Valentin Dragoi, a UTHealth neuroscientist, has won the prestigious NIH Director's Pioneer Award to study how the brain processes information and develop new technologies to monitor neural activity in naturalistic environments. This award will support his high-impact approach to understanding major challenges in biomedical research.
Study: The bright red of cardinals means less in urban areas
A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that the relationship between a male cardinal's body condition and its bright red feather coloration is weaker in urban areas than in rural areas. This disruption may affect how birds choose mates and assess quality.
Pallava Bagla and Roberta Kwok win AGU journalism awards
Bagla won the David Perlman Award for his articles on Himalayan glaciers, exploring dissent among glaciologists regarding the IPCC's claim of imminent disappearance. Kwok received the Walter Sullivan Award for her article on an asteroid detected in space, tracing its journey and retrieving bits from Sudan.
Clinic puts patients at heart of multiple sclerosis research
A £10 million donation from JK Rowling has led to the establishment of a research clinic focused on patient-based studies for multiple sclerosis. The clinic will explore treatments to slow disease progression, with potential implications for other degenerative neurological conditions.
GOES-13 catches 3 tropical cyclones thrashing through the Atlantic
GOES-13 satellite captures powerful Hurricane Earl, growing Tropical Storm Fiona, and fading Danielle in the Atlantic. The satellite imagery shows Earl's large size and high winds, while Fiona appears disorganized with no apparent center.
University of Houston, partners awarded $4.2 million DOE grant for magnet energy storage research
The University of Houston has partnered with ABB and SuperPower to develop a superconducting magnet energy storage system that could revolutionize the US electrical grid. The project aims to create an affordable, large-scale energy storage system using magnetic fields in superconducting coils.
Novel nanotechnology collaboration leads to breakthrough in cancer research
A multidisciplinary team at UCLA has successfully visualized a virus using cryo-electron microscopy, enabling the adaptation of the adenovirus for use in gene-therapy treatments for prostate and breast cancers. The breakthrough provides critical structural information for researchers attempting to modify the adenovirus.
Treatment for S. aureus skin infection works in mouse model
Scientists have found a promising treatment method that neutralizes the key toxin associated with S. aureus skin infections, reducing damage and promoting faster recovery in laboratory mice. The study suggests antitoxin treatment could be an effective alternative to traditional antibiotics.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateAug 31, 2010
300 years of history in a tomato
The University of Leicester historian's book 'Pomodoro! A history of the tomato in Italy' sheds light on the tomato's journey from a botanical curiosity to a staple ingredient. The study reveals how the tomato became closely linked with other foodstuffs like pizza and pasta, and how its uses were subject to change over time.
Mimicking fish and tailoring radar to warn of bridge peril
Researchers are developing an early warning system for bridge failures caused by scouring, using tiny fish-inspired sensors and radar technology. The system can provide real-time information on river bottom conditions and detect minute changes in depth and density of sediment.
Study findings show value of dietary supplement SAMe in treatment of adults with major depressive disorders
A study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that S-Adenosyl Methionine (SAMe) can effectively treat adults with major depressive disorders who do not respond to antidepressant medication. The supplement was well-tolerated and improved measures of depression and remission rates compared to a placebo.
NASA's Terra Satellite captures 3 tropical cyclones in the northwestern Pacific Ocean
NASA's Terra satellite captured Tropical Storm Lionrock, Tropical Storm Namtheun, and Typhoon Kompasu in one image. The two storms are expected to merge, while Typhoon Kompasu is headed for a landfall in China with maximum sustained winds near 109 mph.
Social relationships: Key to health and health policy
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that social relationships have a significant impact on mortality risk, comparable to established risk factors like smoking. This highlights the need for healthcare policies to prioritize social connections in promoting public health.
Heart attacks jump in young Italian women
The incidence of acute myocardial infarction sharply increased among young Italian women between 2001 and 2005, with a total of over 118,000 reported cases in 2005. The study also found that the increase was higher in younger women aged 45-64 years.
SourceSbarro Health Research Organization·JournalAging Clinical and Experimental Research·DateAug 31, 2010
Mothers matter
Researchers found that male bonobos with high social status have greater mating success, while mothers' support enhances their sons' chances of impressing females. This study suggests a unique kinship system where mothers play a crucial role in promoting female reproductive success and potentially increasing the number of grandchildren.
Hospitals face legal dilemma if they test incapacitated patients after needle accidents
A survey of intensive care units in England, Wales and Northern Ireland found that staff often test incapacitated patients without consent after needlestick injuries. The results highlight the need for further discussion on the legality of such tests, as it could be argued that this is unlawful under UK legislation.
TGen finds therapeutic targets for rare cancer in children
Researchers at TGen have identified two potential anti-cancer drug targets, STK10 and TNK2, for Ewing's sarcoma in children. These kinases play a crucial role in the growth and survival of cancer cells, making them promising therapeutic targets.
Drug trial results refine treatment during angioplasty operations
Researchers found that standard dose unfractionated heparin (UFH) added to fondaparinux maintains a low rate of major bleeding and prevents catheter thrombosis. The study suggests that standard dose UFH may be the optimal treatment strategy in PCI patients on fondaparinux.
LEDs illuminate eye for ocular disease screening
A new imaging system using six different wavelengths of LED illumination is paving the way for doctors to easily screen patients for common eye diseases. The system allows doctors to distinguish between different light-absorbing characteristics of biological molecules in the eye, enabling earlier detection and diagnosis.
NRL ready to deploy virtual mission operations center
The Virtual Mission Operations Center (VMOC) enables approved users to request satellite services instantly, prioritized based on operational intent. The system reduces the need for a 'man in the loop', improving satellite utilization and command speed.
Lower-dose heparin use during coronary procedure does not appear to reduce risk of major bleeding
A recent study published in JAMA found that using lower doses of heparin during coronary procedures does not significantly reduce the risk of major bleeding. The research involved 2,026 patients and compared two dose regimens of adjunctive intravenous unfractionated heparin during PCI in high-risk patients.
Providing body armor to all US police officers is worth the cost, study finds
A new RAND Corporation study concludes that providing body armor to all US police officers nationwide is worth the cost, with a potential saving of at least eight lives annually. The study estimates that outfitting all 236,000 officers without body armor would cost $26 million annually.
Scientists discover new protein that gets to the roots of obesity and osteoporosis
Researchers have identified a critical regulatory switch in mesenchymal stem cell lineage allocation, which could lead to the development of new treatments for obesity and osteoporosis. The 'Sprouty' protein has been shown to regulate body fat and bone mass, with potential applications for weight loss and bone density improvement.
SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateAug 31, 2010
Computer scientists leverage dark silicon to improve smartphone battery life
Researchers at UC San Diego developed a new chip prototype called GreenDroid, which uses dark silicon to improve performance through specialized processors. The prototype delivers improved efficiency by running heavily used code in Google's Android platform, resulting in up to 7.5 times increased efficiency compared to aggressive mobil...
For the first time, researchers identify and isolate adult mammary stem cells in mice
For the first time, researchers have identified and isolated adult mammary stem cells in mice using a genetically modified mouse model. The tagged stem cells exhibit bright green fluorescence under a microscope, representing a new alternative to induced pluripotent stem cells for various medical applications.
Mosquitoes use several different kinds of odor sensors to track human prey
Researchers have characterized two families of molecular odorant sensors in Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes, which mediate critical behaviors like host location. The discovery suggests that these mosquitoes use multiple olfactory signaling pathways to detect human-derived odors.
With new technique, UF astronomers find potassium in giant planet's atmosphere
Researchers have found potassium in the atmosphere of a giant planet, HD 80606 b, using narrow-band transit spectrophotometry. The discovery supports previous computer models and demonstrates the value of this observational technique for characterizing planets that might support life.
Fuel-efficiency formula needs cars wired with better brainpower, less vroom
A University of Michigan researcher proposes a 'revolution by evolution' to boost fuel efficiency in gasoline-powered cars. By prioritizing efficient combustion engines and hybrid drives, the target is to reach 52 mpg by 2025 and 74 mpg by 2035.
Off-the-shelf dyes improve solar cells
Researchers have successfully improved the ability of zinc oxide solar cells to absorb visible light using a blended mixture of off-the-shelf dyes. The best result came from a blend that boosted efficiency by nearly eight percent, paving the way for custom dye blends to be formulated for specific solar cell applications.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateAug 31, 2010
Wireless networks enable intruder detection and emergency alerts funded by NSF
Researchers funded by the NSF have developed a system to detect environmental changes caused by moving objects, enabling passive intrusion detection and emergency alerts. The system, called MILAN, utilizes latent wireless signals to monitor situations in security, emergency, and military environments.
Difficult Dialogues Initiative promotes diversity at MU, around country
The University of Missouri's Difficult Dialogues Initiative promotes constructive dialogue on diverse topics, fostering democratic citizenship and intellectual pluralism. The program has received $230,000 in grants from the Ford Foundation to advance its efforts.
High-fat diet during puberty linked to breast cancer risk later in life
Research at Michigan State University's Breast Cancer and the Environment Research Center found that a high-fat diet during puberty can lead to inflammation in the mammary glands, promoting breast cancer growth. The study suggests that this link may be independent of obesity.
Girls' early puberty linked to unstable environment via insecure attachment in infancy
A recent study found that girls who experienced an insecure attachment to their mother at a young age tend to develop earlier and have their first period sooner. This is because an unstable environment can lead to accelerated pubertal maturation as an evolutionary adaptation to increase reproductive chances.
Free as a bird?
Man-made features restrict birds to certain areas, leading to isolation and inbreeding. The study also explores natal dispersal, the time interval between when a bird moves from its hatching location to an area where it will breed.
Preventive cancer surgeries save women's lives
Women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer can benefit from prophylactic surgeries to remove ovaries, fallopian tubes, or breasts, increasing survival rates and eliminating risk. Genetic testing is crucial for identifying the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which significantly increase cancer risk.
Combining resistance and endurance training best for heart health
A study of triathletes found that their hearts become larger and stronger as a result of endurance and resistance training. This adaptation reflects the nature of triathlon training, which combines both forms of exercise.
Photo album tells story of wildlife decline
The Wildlife Picture Index, a new monitoring tool, shows a 36% net decline of biodiversity in Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park. Camera traps collected thousands of images, revealing that large mammals declined faster than small primates and deer.
Silicon oxide circuits break barrier
Researchers at Rice University have developed the first two-terminal memory chips using only silicon, which can be easily adapted to nanoelectronic manufacturing techniques. The new technology features high on-off ratios, excellent endurance and fast switching times, making it suitable for military and NASA applications.
Special edition journal provides new perspectives and guidance for managing white pine blister rust
A special edition journal provides new perspectives and guidance for managing Cronartium ribicola, an introduced invasive pathogen causing serious damage to North American white pines. The collection of 12 articles synthesizes knowledge on the disease, identifies policy actions, and reviews future issues facing white pine management.
SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Research Station·JournalForest Pathology·DateAug 31, 2010
Starvation keeps sleep-deprived fly brain sharp
Researchers found that starvation allows the need for nourishment to push aside the need for sleep in fruit flies. The ability to resist sleep loss was linked to a protein involved in lipid processing.
Archaeological study shows human activity may have boosted shellfish size
A recent study published in Journal of Archaeological Science suggests that a species of shellfish, the humped conch, has increased in size over the past 3,000 years despite increased human activity. The average length of the conchs increased by approximately 1.5 millimeters, making them about 5% larger than they used to be.
Hourly workforce carries burden during recession
The US hourly workforce is shouldering increased burdens during the economic slowdown, with many workers forced to accept reduced hours or irregular schedules. This lack of job security and predictability can have severe consequences for workers' well-being, including instability in family routines and increased stress.
Researchers develop simulation to better understand the effects of sound on marine life
A team of researchers has developed a simulation to better understand the impact of sound on marine mammals like whales and dolphins. The simulation uses advanced computing and X-ray CT scanners to create a 3D virtual environment, allowing scientists to study the effects of sound on these organisms.
Starving to avoid sleepiness, and cognitive impairments when sleep deprived
Fruit fly research found that starvation increases resistance to sleep loss, linked to a protein managing lipid storage. Disabling a specific gene produces effects similar to starvation, creating sleep resistance and preventing cognitive impairments.
Buying common medicines can push poor people further into poverty
A study found that up to 86% of people in low- and middle-income countries would be pushed into poverty if they purchased life-saving medicines. Generic versions of these medicines are generally more affordable than originator brand products.
Mosquitoes use several different kinds of odor sensors to track human prey
Scientists at Vanderbilt University have identified a second set of olfactory receptors in the malaria mosquito Anopheles gambiae, which responds to key human odorants. This discovery may help explain the effectiveness of DEET repellents and provide new insights into developing more effective lures and controls for malaria.