Carnegie Mellon's Yoed Rabin receives grants
Yoed Rabin is developing biothermal technologies for cryopreservation and cryosurgery using vitrification, glassy materials, and wireless temperature sensors.
Science News for August 5, 2010
Drug control efforts in Mexico reduce methamphetamine treatment admissions in Mexico and US
Recent Mexican drug control efforts have led to a significant drop in methamphetamine treatment admissions in Mexico and neighboring Texas. Researchers attribute the decline primarily to import controls on pseudoephedrine precursor chemicals.
Secularization of suicide meant callous mockery of writers' deaths
A recent study reveals that media reports of the time callously mocked the suicides of Grub Street writers, who were unfairly marginalized and exploited. These writers played a crucial role in Western civilization, contributing to the Enlightenment and undermining the French monarchy.
First satellite measurement of water volume in Amazon floodplain
Researchers used satellite data to calculate the amount of water in the Amazon River floodplain, finding an average of 285 cubic kilometers per year. This discovery highlights the complexity of measuring water volumes in remote regions and underscores the need for further research on global water supplies.
Community poverty impacts pre-dialysis care
Research shows that community poverty is linked to lower rates of arteriovenous fistula use among newly diagnosed dialysis patients in poorer communities. This suggests that targeted interventions are needed to improve pre-dialysis care for these patients.
SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateAug 5, 2010
Looking to leap forward on laser and photodetector technologies
A team of Arizona State University researchers will collaborate with colleagues from top universities to develop next-generation lasers and infrared photodetectors. They aim to improve the physical and structural properties of antimonide-based compound semiconductor materials, enabling high-performance sensing and imaging devices.
Study finds proximity could be key to success of healing prayer
A new study found that praying for another person's healing can be effective, especially when the prayerer is physically near the person. The study, which measured improved hearing and vision in rural Mozambican subjects, revealed statistically significant benefits after proximal intercessory prayer (PIP) was administered.
Redefining sexual discrimination
A study finds that gender harassment, even without unwanted sexual advances, leads to negative personal and professional outcomes for women. Women who experience gender harassment report lower satisfaction with their jobs, higher stress, and poorer overall well-being.
Surgery better than radiation, hormone treatments for some prostate cancer, study shows
A new study led by researchers at UCSF found that surgery is more effective than radiation and hormone therapies for men with high-risk prostate cancer. The study analyzed data from 7,538 men with localized disease and found a significant difference in survival rates between surgical removal of the prostate and other treatment options.
Virginia Tech to build new supercomputer
HokieSpeed is expected to deliver 35 times better peak performance and 70 times better power efficiency than System X, Virginia Tech's previous supercomputer. The instrument will enable researchers to perform in-situ visualization for rapid data analysis, making complex problems tractable.
UT professor uncovers clues into how viruses jump from hosts
A UT professor has made a groundbreaking discovery on how viruses jump from host to host. The study found that cross-species transmission may be driven more by host similarity than virus mutation and contact rates.
A built-in source for new heart cells
Researchers have devised a three-ingredient molecular cocktail that transforms fibroblasts into beating heart cells, potentially solving the issue of cardiac muscle regeneration in heart disease. The cocktail, tested on mice, shows promise in producing new cardiac muscle cells more efficiently than induced pluripotent stem cells.
Scientists develop sustainable, environmentally friendly potting medium
USDA scientists create a new sustainable potting medium called WholeTree, made from thinned pine trees. The material can replace costly and time-consuming materials like peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite, reducing energy costs and environmental impact.
BU scientists release alarming data on regional bat populations
A new study predicts that the little brown myotis bat population in the Northeast will decline by over 99% within 20 years due to White-Nose Syndrome. The disease has already affected at least seven species of bats, with millions dying from its effects.
A little adversity bodes well for those with chronic back pain
A new study found that individuals with chronic back pain who experienced some lifetime adversity reported less physical impairment and disability. The researchers speculate that this may be due to the development of psychological and social resources that help tolerate adversity.
H1N1 flu virus used new biochemical trick to cause pandemic
Researchers discovered that the H1N1 flu virus used a novel amino acid location to adapt to human cells, allowing it to spread efficiently. This finding provides new insight into the biology of flu viruses and reveals a genetic marker for predicting future pandemics.
Butterflies shed light on how some species respond to global warming
Researchers studied two butterfly species, finding that genetic variables affect their ability to relocate due to global warming. The study suggests that some species may be more adapted to warmer temperatures than others.
Social ecology: Lost and found in psychological science
Research suggests that economic systems influence cooperation and trust, with societies prioritizing cooperation experiencing higher levels of trust and cooperation. Climate also impacts behavior, with violent-crime rates increasing during warmer months and prosocial behaviors enhanced by sunny weather.
SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateAug 5, 2010
Chew on this: 6 dental myths debunked
A review article debunks common dental myths, highlighting the importance of a balanced diet in preventing tooth decay, osteoporosis, and gum disease. Carole Palmer, a professor at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, outlines how nutrition affects oral health in children, teenagers, expectant mothers, adults, and elders.
AIAA award winners to be honored at conferences in Anaheim
The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) will honor the winners of AIAA technical and literary achievement awards for their outstanding contributions in space science and technology. The award recipients include Harvey Berger, Michael Gass, STS-125 Team, STPSat-1 Team, Wanda Austin, and J. D. Hunley.
High levels of carbon dioxide threaten oyster survival
Research suggests that high CO2 levels can lead to reduced growth, shell hardness, and increased mortality in juvenile oysters. The study's findings highlight the vulnerability of oysters to ocean acidification, which may have cascading effects on marine ecosystems.
Simon Singh wins maiden Leelavati Award
Physicist-turned-author Simon Singh has won the Leelavati Award for his outstanding contributions to public outreach in mathematics. The award, named after a 12th-century Indian mathematician, carries a citation and cash prize of one million Indian rupees.
Studies offer encouraging data on preventing Crohn's disease recurrence
Two studies found that infliximab and certolizumab pegol can effectively maintain remission of Crohn's disease for up to 18 months. Continuous therapy was more effective than interrupted therapy in preventing disease recurrence. Lower doses of infliximab also showed promise in maintaining intestinal mucosa integrity.
SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalClinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateAug 5, 2010
Human embryonic stem cells purified in new, rapid technique
Researchers at UCSF have successfully purified one type of human embryonic stem cell using a novel, high-throughput strategy that avoids genetic engineering. The technique links two existing technologies and enables the separation of pure stem cells from teratoma-forming cells at a rate of about 25,000 cells per second.
Researchers unlocking the secrets of cross-species rabies transmission
A study published in Science reveals that molecular sequence data can be used to quantify cross-species transmission rates, with bats being the most common source of human infections. The analysis found that rabies viruses are more likely to jump between closely related bat species than distant ones.
Help wanted: Highly cited researchers needed for high-ranking positions at research institutions
A study published in the FASEB Journal finds that only a few highly cited scientists hold top leadership positions at research universities. The authors suggest that a glass ceiling may exist, limiting opportunities for highly cited researchers to pursue executive management roles.
SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateAug 5, 2010
Computer scientists build 'pedestrian remover'
Researchers developed a proof-of-concept system that removes pedestrians from urban scenes in Google Street View, exploring how computer vision can preserve privacy in public environments. The system replaces pedestrians with an approximation of the actual background behind each pedestrian.
Frogs evolution tracks rise of Himalayas and rearrangement of Southeast Asia
A genetic analysis of 24 spiny frog species reveals their evolutionary history, which correlates with the rise of the Himalayas and Tibetan plateau. The study supports a minority theory of the India-Asia collision, suggesting that Southeast Asia was pushed aside towards the Pacific Ocean.
SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 5, 2010
Economic status, genetics together influence psychopathic traits
Researchers found that children with a specific serotonin transporter gene variant are more likely to exhibit psychopathic traits if they grow up poor. These traits include lack of empathy, arrogance, and deceitfulness. The study suggests that socioeconomic environment influences the expression of this genetic trait.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Abnormal Psychology·DateAug 5, 2010
The secret of life may be as simple as what happens between the sheets -- mica sheets
The 'life between the sheets' hypothesis proposes that structured compartments formed between layers of mica could have sheltered and evolved pre-life molecules. Mica's unique properties make it an ideal environment for life to emerge, with its ability to withstand wet/dry cycles and provide a stable surface for cells to develop.
Coastal creatures may have reduced ability to fight off infections in acidified oceans
Researchers found that coastal animals have a decreased ability to fight off infection of Vibrio bacteria when exposed to low oxygen and high carbon dioxide conditions. This makes them more vulnerable to infection, especially with injuries or wounds exposed to the water.
Lubricating the knee cartilage after ACL injury may prevent osteoarthritis
Researchers identify options for restoring joint lubrication to potentially prevent OA. The study found that injecting lubricin into the traumatized joint limits cartilage deterioration and encourages the joint to produce its own lubricin.
Human embryonic stem cells and reprogrammed cells virtually identical
Researchers found that human embryonic stem cells and reprogrammed cells exhibit very few differences in gene expression signatures and are nearly indistinguishable in their chromatin state, according to Whitehead Institute researchers. This study suggests that reprogrammed cells may indeed hold clinical promise ascribed to them earlier.
'Asynchronous telepsychiatry' found effective for assessing patients' mental health
A study by UC Davis researchers has demonstrated the effectiveness of asynchronous telepsychiatry in assessing patients' mental health, using store-and-forward technology. The approach allows psychiatrists to provide opinions to primary-care doctors quickly and efficiently, with high accuracy and feasibility.
Laser may reduce prostate surgery's sexual side effects
A pilot study published in the Journal of Endourology suggests that CO2 laser technology used with robotic prostate cancer surgery may preserve sensitive nerve areas necessary for erections and urinary continence. The technology, known as BeamPath, was found to be easy to manipulate and accurate.
SourceNew York- Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Endourology·DateAug 5, 2010
UofL receives $3.15 million grant from Helmsley Charitable Trust
The University of Louisville has received a $3.15 million grant from the Helmsley Charitable Trust to support its cancer research program in Owensboro. The funding will be used to create new faculty positions and expand the research program, with a focus on developing plant-based pharmaceuticals.
Power plant waste to be used to clean up Gulf oil spill
Researchers from UCF develop specially treated flyash as a cleaning agent for oil spills, preserving energy-generating capabilities. The innovative process absorbs oil and can be reused, making it a cost-effective and scalable solution.
UCLA researchers discover protein that shuttles RNA into cell mitochondria
Researchers at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have uncovered a new role for polynucleotide phosphorylase (PNPASE) in regulating the import of RNA into mitochondria. Reducing PNPASE expression impairs mitochondrial energy production and cell growth.
Diabetes or not, dietary habits of African-Americans are similar
Researchers found that African Americans consume more fat and saturated fat, while having lower-than-recommended levels of minerals associated with bone health. However, those with diabetes ate more dietary fiber than those with normal blood sugar levels.
Simplifying computer power behind phones, medical devices
Chapman's research aims to simplify the development of portable applications, enabling medical equipment manufacturers to create advanced software for embedded multicore processors. The collaboration has led to the creation of open-source training material and graduate courses introducing UH students to multicore programming.
Hebrew University researchers identify gene related to chronic pain
Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have identified a gene associated with chronic pain susceptibility in humans. They found that genetic variants of Cacng2 were significantly associated with chronic pain in breast cancer patients after breast removal surgery, suggesting a potential link between genetics and pain perception.
Rotavirus vaccine trials successful in Asia and Africa; vaccine should now be rolled out across both continents
Trials in Asia and Africa have demonstrated the rotavirus vaccine's ability to prevent severe gastroenteritis and save thousands of lives. The vaccine has shown promise in reducing disease incidence, especially among infants.
Scientists unlock secret of rabies transmission in bats
A recent study led by Daniel Streicker analyzed hundreds of rabies viruses from 23 North American bat species, providing estimates of cross-species transmission (CST) frequency. CST occurs only once for every 72.8 transmissions within the same species, with factors like geographic range and genetics influencing its likelihood.
Gladstone scientists discover new method for regenerating heart muscle by direct reprogramming
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes found a way to make beating heart cells from body's own cells, helping to regenerate damaged hearts. The new method directly reprograms structural cells called fibroblasts into cardiomyocytes without needing stem cell state.
Bats facing regional extinction from rapidly spreading disease
A new infectious disease, white-nose syndrome, is killing millions of bats and predicted to cause regional extinction of the little brown myotis. The disease affects hibernating bats and disrupts their hibernation, causing them to wake early and lose critical fat reserves.
UK cancer fund is not the victory for patient groups that some believe
The UK government's £50 million emergency cancer fund is under fire for its potential to favor patients based on geographical location rather than medical need. The Lancet Editorial argues that this policy undermines the principles of evidence-based medicine and rational healthcare resource allocation.
Newts' ability to regenerate tissue replicated in mouse cells by Stanford scientists
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine successfully replicated the ability of newts to regenerate tissue in mouse cells by blocking the expression of two tumor-suppressing proteins. This breakthrough may lead to future regenerative therapies for humans, and could involve sending us back down the evolutionary tree.
MIT physicists use offshoot of string theory to describe puzzling behavior of superconductors
Using gauge/gravity duality, researchers identified a system with unusual properties similar to strange metals, which can be explained by gravitational mechanics. This approach may shed light on other materials and predict their behavior.
A 'crystal ball' for predicting the effects of global climate change
By comparing different species and environments, researchers can identify environmental optima and tolerance limits for predicting climate change effects. Tropical porcelain crabs, despite being heat-tolerant, live near their thermal tolerance range and have limited ability to adapt to warmer temperatures.
Federal grant invests in nanostructured 'super' materials
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee has launched a Center for Advanced Materials Manufacturing with a $1.2 million federal grant to scale up the production of nanostructured metallic materials, which could revitalize foundries and metal-casting businesses.
WPI receives $1.5 million award to demonstrate membrane system for coal gas power plants
The Center for Inorganic Membrane Studies at Worcester Polytechnic Institute will demonstrate a palladium membrane system to separate hydrogen from coal gas, aiming to lower energy costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The project is part of an $8.5M program to advance clean energy technologies.
Study shows splitting bowel preparation dosage is most effective cleansing method before colonoscopy
A new study has found that a split-dosage schedule of bowel preparation is the most effective method for bowel cleansing before colonoscopy. The study found that procedures performed within six to eight hours of the end of preparation had significantly better cleansing than those performed more than eight hours after.
SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateAug 5, 2010
Humans imitate aspects of speech we see
Researchers at UC Riverside found that people who lipread a silent face articulate words sound like the person speaking, rather than their own words. This suggests that our brains are primed by speech articulation and can imitate speech patterns even when we're not actively listening.
Brown University awarded $15.5-million math institute
The Institute for Computational and Experimental Research in Mathematics (ICERM) will leverage internationally recognized programs to create long-term research programs and scholarly conferences. The institute aims to solve new problems of critical importance and benefit to society through collaboration with industries.
Global tropical forests threatened by 2100
A new study projects that only 18% to 45% of plants and animals in global tropical forests may remain as we know them today by 2100. Conservation efforts can focus on reducing deforestation pressure to help species adapt to climate change or enhance their ability to move with it.
Falls the leading cause of injury among older adults in China
A new study reveals falls as the leading cause of non-fatal injuries among older adults in China, with 70% of injuries occurring at home or on the street. The divorced and widowed elderly are identified as high-risk groups for injury, highlighting the need for targeted prevention programs.
Increased destruction of bird populations are predicted with rise in global temperatures
Researchers warn that increasing global temperatures will lead to devastating effects on desert bird populations, with even minor temperature increases doubling water loss rates and reducing survival times. Small birds may face reduced survival times of up to 30-40% during heat waves.