UC Riverside entomologist to study diseases transmitted by ticks
UC Riverside researcher Joao Pedra to investigate immune system response to rickettsial infections, potentially leading to novel therapeutics against devastating tick-borne diseases.
Science News Archive August 2011
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Innate cells shown to form immunological 'memory' and protect against viral infection
Researchers have discovered that innate immune cells can form a type of 'memory' that protects against viral infections. This finding has significant implications for the design of future vaccines, particularly for HIV. The study found that natural killer cells can recognize and respond to viruses more effectively after previous exposure.
Mold exposure during infancy increases asthma risk
Infants exposed to moldy homes are three times more likely to develop asthma by age 7. The study, published in Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, analyzed data from 176 children and found that genetic factors also play a critical role in childhood asthma development.
Breakthrough in photonic chip research paves way for ultrafast information sharing
Researchers have discovered a way to prevent light signals from reflecting backwards on silicon chips, enabling faster data transfer rates and lower costs. The breakthrough could lead to the development of integrated photonic chips that replace electronic chips in information technology.
Females can place limits on evolution of attractive features in males, research shows
Biologists studied neotropical túngara frogs, finding that females' brains process certain information differently than others. This limitation prevents males from evolving increasingly elaborate calls to attract females, due to a perceptual constraint.
Small interventions can alleviate underperformance caused by stereotype threat
Recent research shows that small interventions can increase black students' grades by a third and persist for three years. Stereotype threat can have a strong negative impact on test and school performance, but Steele's work offers hope for reducing its effects.
Johns Hopkins scientists map genes for common form of brain cancer
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center have created a comprehensive map of genetic mutations in oligodendroglioma, the second-most common form of brain cancer. The study reveals that CIC and FUBP1 genes are critical in tumor development and may hold the key to attacking this cancer.
Drinking just 1 measure of spirits increases the risk of acute pancreatitis
A study published in the British Journal of Surgery found that drinking just one measure of spirits can increase the risk of acute pancreatitis. The research followed 84,601 people and found that high single occasion spirits consumption was associated with higher levels of diabetes.
Potential new eye tumor treatment discovered
A study published in Genes & Development reveals a specific RNA cluster, miR-17~92, plays a key role in the growth of retinoblastoma, a rare form of childhood eye cancer. The researchers found that overexpression of this microRNA cluster helps cells proliferate despite the loss of tumor-suppressing protein Rb.
Rice discovery points way to graphene circuits
Researchers found a direct relationship between chemical synthesis conditions and graphene alloy electronic properties. This discovery enables precise prediction of final product's properties using well-understood chemical procedures.
East Africa's climate under the spell of El Niño since the last Ice Age
A study published in Science found that East Africa's climate has been under the spell of El Niño for thousands of years, with significant impacts on rainfall patterns. The research, led by Axel Timmermann and Gerald Haug, used sediment layers from Lake Challa to reconstruct the history of East African rainfall back to the Last Ice Age.
Making sperm from stem cells in a dish
Scientists have successfully turned mouse embryonic stem cells into healthy sperm by coaxing them into primordial germ cells. This breakthrough allows for the potential creation of fertile offspring using induced pluripotent stem cells from adult skin cells.
Cells die so defensive organs can live
New study reveals that programmed cell death is involved in mandibular regression in termites. During termite development, body form and structure change, including the formation of defensive organs like the nasus and regressed mouth parts.
Locally owned small businesses pack powerful economic punch
A study by Penn State economists found that locally owned small businesses generate higher incomes for community members and provide long-term economic growth. In contrast, large, nonlocal firms can depress local economies. The researchers analyzed data from 2,953 US counties to support their findings.
New study shows how to eliminate motion sickness on tilting trains
Researchers at Mount Sinai School of Medicine found that motion sickness on tilting trains can be eliminated by adjusting the timing of when cars tilt as they enter and leave curves. In a predictive mode based on GPS signals, passengers experienced no discomfort despite faster tilts.
La Ninas distant effects in East Africa
Researchers found that La Nina's cold phase leads to marginal rainfall and stronger winds in East Africa, while El Niño warm phase causes weak wind conditions with frequent rain. The study tracked climate variations to the last ice age using Lake Challa sediment cores.
Hang out at the water cooler, live longer
A Tel Aviv University researcher found that employees with positive relationships with their co-workers are more likely to live a longer life. The study followed the health records of 820 adults who worked an average of 8.8 hours a day and found that those with low social support at work were 2.4 times more likely to die within 20 years.
Wearable device that vibrates fingertip could improve one's sense of touch
Researchers developed a glove with vibrating fingertip that enhances tactile sensitivity and motor performance. The device showed statistically significant improvements in various sensory and motor skill tasks, including texture discrimination, two-point discrimination, and grasp tests.
Large variations in Arctic sea ice
Researchers uncover large variations in Arctic sea ice extent over the past 10,000 years, revealing that current amounts are likely less than half of those seen during the Holocene Climate Optimum. The team's findings suggest changes in wind patterns contribute to climate-driven ice loss.
Fusion diagnostic developed at PPPL sheds light on plasma behavior at EAST
Researchers at PPPL developed a high-resolution X-ray imaging crystal spectrometer to observe the effects of radiofrequency waves on plasma behavior. The spectrometer revealed self-generated and RF-driven flow, which could be beneficial for fusion research and future reactors.
First scorpion antivenom approved by FDA
The US Food and Drug Administration approved Anascorp, a scorpion antivenom produced in Mexico, to treat patients suffering from scorpion sting. The drug was tested in clinical trials conducted through the University of Arizona and showed dramatic results in alleviating symptoms and reducing scorpion venom levels.
Molecular mechanisms offer hope for new pain treatments
Geneticists at the University of Montreal have discovered a key gene involved in pain perception, which could lead to new pain relief drugs. The study identified a genetic mutation that causes hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type II, a severe disorder characterized by degeneration of sensory neurons.
New paper examines future of seawater desalinization
A new paper reviews the state-of-the-art desalination technologies and their potential to improve energy demand reductions. The authors also explore advanced materials and innovative technologies for improving performance and sustainability.
Wireless network in hospital monitors vital signs
A wireless sensor network tracks at-risk patients' vital signs, transmitting data to a base station for analysis by machine-learning algorithms. The system aims to prevent adverse events by detecting changes in vital signs before they become critical.
The brain grows while the body starves
Researchers have identified a key gene that enables the brain to continue growing while other organs shut down in fetal development. This genetic link may hold clues for understanding intra-uterine growth restriction and its potential links to metabolic disease later in life.
LSUHSC research finds species share perceptual capabilities that affect how communication evolves
A study by LSUHSC researchers found that two different species, frogs and bats, share similar perception of auditory cues driving basic biological functions. This universal perception may limit the evolution of communication signals.
Better desalination technology key to solving world's water shortage
A Yale University study argues that seawater desalination can help combat worldwide fresh water shortages once conservation methods are exhausted. Researchers suggest making pre- and post-treatment stages more efficient for substantial energy and cost savings.
AAA journal rockets to top of science education category
The American Association for Anatomy's ASCES journal has secured the number one ranking in Education, Scientific Disciplines with its debut impact factor of 2.976. The journal provides an international forum for anatomy education research, attracting contributions from top researchers worldwide.
NYU neuroscientists identify how the brain remembers what happens and when
Researchers at NYU's Center for Neural Science have identified the hippocampus and perirhinal cortex as crucial brain areas involved in integrating 'what' and 'when' information. This discovery enhances our understanding of how memories are processed and may lead to new approaches for addressing memory-related disorders.
Prescriptions for antidepressants increasing among individuals with no psychiatric diagnosis
A Johns Hopkins study found nearly four out of five antidepressant prescriptions are written by non-psychiatrist providers for individuals with no psychiatric diagnoses. The share of such providers increased from 30% in 1996 to 55.4% in 2007.
Screening effort turns up multiple potential anti-malaria compounds
Researchers identified 32 effective compounds against malaria parasites, including 10 new compounds and 7 that are more active than artemisinin at lower concentrations. The study suggests targeting the same three parasite genes simultaneously to disarm the parasite and provides leads for multi-drug regimens.
A patient's own skin cells may one day treat multiple diseases
UC Davis investigator provides roadmap to overcome obstacles for using induced pluripotent stem cells to treat various human diseases. The technology has the potential to bypass immunological problems inherent in traditional stem cell therapy.
Polymer's hunt for nicotine
A newly synthesized polymer, fitted with molecular pincers, effectively captures nicotine molecules and its analogues. The polymer can be used for fabrication of sensitive and selective chemical sensors to determine nicotine in solutions, as well as for slow, controlled release of nicotine for therapeutic purposes.
Elusive gene mutations found for malignant brain tumor
Scientists at Duke University Medical Center and Johns Hopkins University discovered the most likely genetic mutations on chromosomes 1 and 19 involved in oligodendroglioma development. These genes, CIC and FUBP1, are rarely mutated in other cancers, increasing the chances for effective combination drug therapy.
New Montana State research sheds light on South Pole dinosaurs
Researchers at Montana State University have discovered that dog-sized dinosaurs that lived in the Antarctic Circle had bone tissue very similar to those living elsewhere on the planet. This finding may help explain how dinosaurs were able to dominate the Earth for 160 million years.
Researchers shed new light on predicting spinal disc degeneration
Researchers at IBEC used a computational model to study the effect of external loading on two important cell solutes related to disc metabolism: oxygen and lactate. They found that the effect of loading was greater when compressing a healthy disc than a degenerated one, promoting fluctuations in solute concentration.
6 million years of African savanna
Scientists used chemical isotopes to measure tree cover and shade in ancient soil, finding that grassy savannas were prevalent at most East African sites where human ancestors evolved. The study suggests that hominins partitioned their time between open and closed habitats, with sparse woody canopy providing essential resources.
Disappearance of genetic material allows tumor cells to grow
Researchers identified genetic changes that led to the loss of E2A, a crucial gene regulator. The loss enables tumor cells to grow rapidly and uncontrolledly, contributing to the aggressive behavior of Sézary syndrome.
Hormone reduces risk of heart failure from chemotherapy
A recent study published in Cell Stem Cell found that low doses of erythropoietin (EPO) may reduce the risk of heart failure associated with some anticancer therapies. EPO was shown to bind to cardiac stem cells and restore their ability to form new blood vessels, preserving cardiac function.
Compression stockings may reduce OSA in some patients
Wearing compression stockings reduced daytime fluid accumulation and apneas/hypopnea by over a third in patients with CVI. The findings suggest that compression stockings could be a simple, low-tech treatment option for OSA.
Poorly controlled asthma costly
Research at National Jewish Health found that poorly controlled asthma doubles healthcare costs, with children missing an average of 18 days of school annually. Proper education and supervision can improve asthma control and reduce costs, improving the lives and chances for success of affected children.
Group Health establishes major initiative to prevent opioid abuse and overdose
Group Health developed care plans for nearly 6,000 patients receiving long-term opioid therapy, standardizing use of opioids for chronic non-cancer pain. The initiative aimed to enhance prescribing safety and improve care for patients with chronic pain.
Human skin cells converted directly into functional neurons
Columbia University researchers have successfully converted human skin cells directly into functional forebrain neurons, providing a promising alternative to traditional stem cell therapies. The induced neurons exhibit characteristics similar to those of healthy neurons and can transmit signals, indicating their potential for replaceme...
Minimal scar techniques in living donors for kidney transplant
Hospital Clínic of Barcelona applies the first minimally invasive technique in living donors, reducing scarring and improving donor quality of life. The technique uses natural orifices to extract a kidney without major scars.
Out of body experience for stem cells may lead to more successful transplants
Researchers found that growing blood stem cells for about a week can improve transplantation success rates by reducing immune rejection. The lab-grown HSCs produce an immune system inhibitor on their surface, making them less likely to be rejected and more likely to engraft into the recipient's blood.
One box of Girl Scout Cookies worth $15 billion
Researchers demonstrate that any carbon source can be converted into high-quality graphene, a material with numerous applications. They tested various materials, including food, insects, and waste, to produce graphene, showcasing its potential for widespread use.
Wayne State University awarded $3 million from NIH to foster science and research careers
The NIH grant will support Wayne State's Initiative for Maximizing Student Development (IMSD) program, which provides personalized experiences for undergraduate and graduate students. The program has already supported over 700 students, with many going on to complete advanced degrees.
Have we met before? Scientists show why the brain has the answer
Researchers at University of Bristol found that multiple brain regions work together to form memories, particularly in recognizing faces and names. The study's findings have implications for understanding memory disorders like Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers find way to help donor adult blood stem cells overcome transplant rejection
UT Southwestern researchers have found a way to regulate adult blood stem cells to overcome an immune response that leads to transplant rejection. The study successfully supports human and mouse blood stem cells through culture, enabling significant repopulation of healthy cells in rodent recipients.
Mutation linked with the absence of fingerprints
Scientists have identified a rare genetic mutation that underlies adermatoglyphia, a condition characterized by the complete absence of fingerprints. The study provides valuable insight into the genetics of fingerprint formation and highlights the usefulness of rare genetic mutations in understanding human biology.
US physician practices spend 4 times Canadian practices
Physician practices in the US spend significantly more time interacting with health insurers and payers, resulting in higher per capita health spending. The study found that if US physicians had similar administrative costs to those in Canada, it could save $27.6 billion per year.
University of Virginia researchers uncover new catalysis site
University of Virginia researchers have identified a new type of catalytic site for oxidation reactions, which could lead to the development of more efficient catalysts. The discovery was made using a combination of experimental and theoretical tools, including spectroscopy and computational chemistry.
Fossils of forest rodents found in highland desert
Two new rodent fossils, Mesoprocta hypsodus and Quebradahondomys potosiensis, were discovered in southern Bolivia's highlands. The rodents likely lived in forested habitats, with the larger species possibly foraging on the ground and the smaller one being arboreal.
Suicide risk high for war veterans in college, study finds
A recent study found that nearly half of college veterans reported suicidal thoughts and 20% had planned to kill themselves. The survey also revealed higher rates of suicide-related problems among student veterans compared to those seeking mental health services from VA centers.
Caltech-led engineers solve longstanding problem in photonic chip technology
Researchers designed a new type of optical waveguide that isolates light signals on a silicon chip, solving a long-standing problem in engineering photonic chips. This breakthrough enables the creation of integrated nanoscale photonic devices and components for future integrated information systems.
Sexually extravagant male birds age more rapidly, but try to hide it
Research reveals that male houbara bustards who perform the most elaborate sexual displays suffer from premature biological aging. This study finds that these males pass their reproductive prime earlier than less extravagant rivals, highlighting an early-life cost to later-life declines.
UCLA life scientists' study of abalone yields new insights into sexual reproduction
Researchers studied interactions between individual sperm and eggs in red abalone, making precise chemical measurements and physical models of these interactions. They found that the egg releases a plume of tryptophan to attract sperm, greatly increasing its target area. Ocean flow conditions also play a significant role in fertilization.
B.C. researchers find quick, low-cost tests can accurately identify childhood developmental delays
BC researchers found that the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) and Parents' Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS) can accurately identify development delays in children. The tests, which take 5-15 minutes to complete, have been validated for accuracy in primary care settings.
Raptor usurpers in neighboring habitats reshape the conventional wisdom
Environmental assessments need to examine a broader reach, as displaced species migrate to neighboring habitats, causing competition for resources. Researchers tracked the movements of raptors in the Judean Foothills, finding that buzzards are taking over eagles' nests and diminishing their food supply.
Aggressive drug therapy aids superbug evolution
Research warns that using powerful antibiotics to treat diseases like MRSA and malaria can accelerate the emergence of resistant strains. The study suggests strategies for slowing resistance spread and preventing mutations.