Statement by US Secretary of Energy on the Higgs Particle
The US Department of Energy supports the search for the Higgs particle through the Large Hadron Collider. Thousands of American scientists and graduate students contributed to this research.
Science News Archive July 2012 - Page 23
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Platelet drug shows clinical benefits for severe, unresponsive aplastic anemia
A new clinical study by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute found that eltrombopag improved blood cell production in 11 out of 25 participants with severe aplastic anemia. The drug was well-tolerated, with few side effects, and six patients showed significant improvements in all three types of blood cells.
SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 4, 2012
Developing world has less than 5 percent chance of meeting UN child hunger target, study estimates
A systematic analysis found that most developing countries have made limited progress towards halving childhood hunger by 2015. The study estimates that the global developing world has less than a 5% chance of meeting this target, with significant improvements seen in Asia and Latin America.
Study in Nature sheds new light on planet formation
A study published in Nature found that a cloud of dust circling a young star disappeared within three years, contradicting the commonly accepted timescale for dust removal. This sudden disappearance suggests that planet formation may be much faster or more efficient than previously thought.
Discovery improves understanding of early onset inflammatory disease
Scientists have discovered a 'constant cloud' of potent inflammatory molecules surrounding the cells responsible for diseases like thickening of the arteries and rheumatoid arthritis. Monocytes, a type of white blood cell, were found to be surrounded by this constant cloud, which was propelled through the cell wall by lysosomes.
Yak genome provides new insights into high altitude adaptation
The yak genome provides new insights into high-altitude adaptation, with distinct gene expansions related to sensory perception and energy metabolism. The study also identified genes that may play important roles in regulating body response to hypoxia and optimizing energy from poor foods.
Urban athletes show that for orangutans, it pays to sway
Researchers used human parkour athletes to simulate orangutan movements and found that swaying is the most efficient way to cross trees. This finding helps explain why orangutans spend most of their lives in trees despite their large size and low-energy diet.
Scientists discover new clues explaining tendon injury
Researchers have identified the interfascicular matrix (IFM) as essential for tendon function, suggesting it may be critical in preventing tendon overuse injuries. The finding has significant implications for understanding and treating tendon disorders that cost the UK economy billions of pounds annually.
Single embryo transfer reduces the risk of perinatal mortality in IVF
A policy of single embryo transfer (SET) has been associated with a reduction in overall perinatal mortality for IVF and ICSI babies. SET has also been linked to lower risks of preterm birth and low birth weight, as well as sequelae such as prematurity and neonatal complications.
SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateJul 4, 2012
Rewiring DNA circuitry could help treat asthma
Researchers reprogrammed asthma-promoting immune cells in mice, reducing airway damage and inflammation. The discovery identifies a potential target for new treatments of chronic inflammatory diseases.
Tumor microenvironment helps skin cancer cells resist drug treatment
New research suggests that normal cells within the tumor, part of the tumor microenvironment, may supply factors that help cancer cells grow and survive despite anti-cancer drugs. The study found that hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is linked to BRAF inhibitor drug resistance in melanoma.
Cystic fibrosis makes airways more acidic, reduces bacterial killing
A study by University of Iowa researchers found that cystic fibrosis makes airways more acidic, reducing bacterial killing. Making the airway liquid less acidic with baking soda restores normal bacterial killing levels.
Hormones dictate when youngsters fly the nest, says new research
A study from the University of Leeds found that seabirds control when their young leave home through hormone levels corticosterone, not parental care. Chicks show a surge in this hormone 60 days before fledging, prompting parents to reduce food provisioning.
Just a question of time?
Researchers at the virtual Helmholtz Institute PolarTime are studying the inner clock of Antarctic krill to understand its impact on the marine ecosystem under climate change. They will investigate the principles and evolution of endogenous biological rhythms and clocks in pelagic organisms.
A new type of data papers designed to publish online interactive keys identifying biodiversity
A new initiative establishes Online Identification Keys (OIK) as a derivative of Data Papers, facilitating interactive key construction and citation mechanism. MOSCHweb is a software platform that enables the creation of online keys, providing biologists and general users with benefits.
Developing countries have a less than 5 percent chance of meeting UN hunger targets by 2015
A new study published in The Lancet found that developing countries have made progress in reducing child malnutrition but still struggle to meet the UN's Millennium Development Goal target. The research analyzed data from over 7 million children worldwide and estimated that only 61 of 141 countries have a 50% chance of meeting the goal.
Seabirds study shows plastic pollution reaching surprising levels off coast of Pacific Northwest
A new study by University of British Columbia researchers reveals substantial increases in plastic pollution along the northern Pacific coast, with 92.5% of beached northern fulmars found to contain plastics
Quantum computing, no cooling required
Researchers at Harvard University have successfully created room-temperature quantum bits that can store information for nearly two seconds. This achievement is a significant step towards building a functional quantum computer and opens up new possibilities for various applications such as quantum cash and secure communications.
The food industry should be regulated
Food expert Kelly Brownell argues that government regulation is necessary to counterbalance the food industry's influence. The industry prioritizes profits over public health, distorting science and compromising scientists to achieve its goals. Voluntary changes are insufficient to address the obesity crisis.
Researchers moving towards ending threat of West Nile virus
West Nile virus infection causes breakdown of two vital proteins, claudin and JAM, leading to accelerated degradation of the blood-brain barrier. Researchers hope to design drugs that prevent brain infection by understanding this mechanism.
West coast experiencing decreasing trends in salmon spawning
A study found a widespread decrease in sockeye salmon productivity along the western North American coast, with declines observed in both pristine and heavily disturbed habitats. The authors suggest shared mechanisms such as high mortality rates from predators or pathogens may be driving the trend.
SourceCanadian Science Publishing·JournalCanadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences·DateJul 3, 2012
Feathered saurians -- downy dinosaur discovered
Researchers found a young megalosaur with filamentous integument, revealing its body was covered in feathers, which may have been present in all predatory dinosaurs. The discovery also sheds light on the changing diets and lifestyles of juvenile dinosaurs as they grew older.
SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 3, 2012
SDSC's CIPRES Science Gateway clarifies branches in evolution's 'tree of life'
The CIPRES Science Gateway is helping researchers unravel the enigmas of phylogenetics by making it possible to compare similarities and differences in DNA among large numbers of species. Phylogenetic studies are essential for understanding the history of life on earth, population changes, and evolutionary theories.
Researchers develop an artificial cerebellum than enables robotic human-like object handling
University of Granada researchers have developed an artificial cerebellum that controls a robotic arm with human-like precision, enabling it to interact with humans safely. The new cerebellar model adapts to corrections and stores sensorial effects, allowing the robot to perform automatic learning and robust control.
Cutting calories might help you live longer, but not without increased physical activity
Dietary restriction in flies prolongs life by enhancing fat metabolism and increasing physical activity, critical for extending lifespan. Blocking fat synthesis negates the effect of dietary restriction.
Foster kids do much better under approach developed by CU School of Medicine
A study by University of Colorado School of Medicine researchers found that foster children who receive mentoring and skills training have improved placement outcomes, with 44% fewer changes in care and 82% lower risk of residential treatment. They are also twice as likely to reunify with their biological families.
Unvaccinated children rather than lack of effective vaccines is hindering the elimination of polio in Pakistan and Afghanistan
Insufficient vaccination coverage, particularly in insecure regions, is preventing the elimination of polio in Pakistan and Afghanistan. A new study suggests that introducing bivalent oral poliovirus vaccines could eliminate polio if sufficient numbers of children are reached by vaccination programs.
Rising plasma offers clues to sun storms
A team of researchers, including a Rice astrophysicist, used Doppler measurements to observe loops of plasma flowing up from the sun's surface at high speeds. These findings may help predict solar flares and coronal mass ejections that threaten satellites and power grids.
Researchers from Penn, Michigan and Duke study how cooperation can trump competition in monkeys
A study by researchers from Penn, Michigan, and Duke found that alpha male geladas who allowed subordinate competitors into their group had a longer tenure as leader and averaged three more offspring. The findings suggest cooperation among unrelated adult males can benefit the dominant male's reproductive career.
First photo of shadow of single atom
A Griffith University research team has successfully photographed the shadow of a single atom for the first time. The achievement is made possible by a super high-resolution microscope that allows the creation of a darker image, enabling its capture. This technology has far-reaching implications for quantum computing and biomicroscopy.
Childhood adversity increases risk for depression and chronic inflammation
Researchers found that childhood adversity increases the risk of depression and chronic inflammation, which can persist even after depression resolves. Individuals who experienced early childhood trauma have a higher risk of developing diabetes and heart disease.
Online technology spurs education reform, expansion of Arizona State's 'global classroom' to Europe
The ASU-Leuphana program aims to redefine traditional teaching approaches by utilizing virtual conferencing, intensive writing assignments, and peer-to-peer mentoring. Students from Europe, South America, China, and the US will work together on group projects, developing solutions to sustainability challenges.
Counting carbon: Pre-industrial emissions make a difference
Research from Carnegie Institution shows pre-industrial era's clearing of land and forests contribute to atmospheric carbon dioxide, affecting global warming. Accounting for these emissions shifts attribution of global temperature from industrialized nations to developing nations.
Physicists identify new quantum state allowing 3 -- but not 2 -- atoms to stick together
Researchers at Kansas State University have identified a new bound state in atoms that can hold three identical atoms together, but repel two. This discovery sheds light on matter and its composition, and may lead to breakthroughs in experiments with ultracold atomic gases.
Parents less likely to develop colds, Carnegie Mellon research shows
New research from Carnegie Mellon University reveals parents are 52% less likely to develop a cold than non-parents when exposed to a common cold virus. The study found that parenthood has a positive effect on health, with parents experiencing reduced risk of illness regardless of the number of children they have.
Dr. Curtis Wray awarded cancer research grant
Dr. Curtis Wray has been awarded a $729,000 grant to study disparities in liver cancer life expectancy among underserved populations. His research aims to identify factors contributing to the lower life expectancy of advanced liver cancer patients in these communities.
SA government should act on Big Food Corporations and the obesity epidemic: international experts
International experts warn of SA's unhealthy eating habits linked to big food corporations, urging gov action to make healthy foods more accessible and restrict high-calorie products. The authors suggest policy responses including public education and regulation of the industry.
Why smoking is 'BAD' for the Fallopian tube -- and increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy
Researchers found that smoking reduces the production of a key gene called BAD in Fallopian tubes, creating an environment conducive to ectopic pregnancies. This finding may lead to new ways to prevent and diagnose ectopic pregnancies.
SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateJul 3, 2012
New animal model may lead to treatments for common liver disease
Scientists have created a new laboratory opossum model to study nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a common liver disease affecting up to 15 million Americans. The study found that high responders carried a mutated ABCB4 gene, leading to cholesterol accumulation in the liver and potential development of NASH.
Safety indicators confirmed for common treatment of heart defect
A new study from the University of Manchester confirms safety indicators for people taking anticoagulant drugs to regulate atrial fibrillation, a condition that increases stroke risk. The study found that patients with high INR levels were more likely to experience bleeding episodes.
Diving shrews -- heat before you leap
Research reveals that American water shrews heat their bodies immediately before diving into cold water, increasing foraging efficiency and potentially allowing them to survive longer underwater. This unexpected behavior challenges prevailing dogma on the physiology of divers.
Brazil has laws that protect against “Big Food” and “Big Snack”
Brazil has implemented legislation to shield its traditional food system from the influence of global corporations, aiming to improve public health and preserve cultural heritage. By law, schools must serve minimally processed meals sourced from local farmers, reducing the penetration of Big Food companies in Brazil.
Revisiting the association between saturated fat intake and coronary heart disease
A prospective cohort study found associations between plasma concentrations of saturated phospholipid fatty acids and increased risk of coronary heart disease. In contrast, n-6 polyunsaturated phospholipid fatty acids showed an inverse association with coronary heart disease risk.
Urban groups help women but no effect on perinatal outcomes in Mumbai
A cluster-randomized trial found that urban women's groups in Mumbai slums discussed perinatal health, resulting in behavior change. However, there was no measurable impact on population-level perinatal health or mortality rates.
2 studies offer new insights from the front lines of battle against malaria
Researchers confirm indoor insecticide spraying reduces malaria deaths by 62% and finds DDT may be effective in areas with intense disease transmission. However, concerns over health risks must be weighed against its potential to reduce malaria illnesses and deaths.
Risk factors for death identified for children with diarrhea in rural Kenya
A hospital-based surveillance study found that infections with nontyphoidal Salmonella and Shigella increased the risk of death in children hospitalized with diarrhea in rural Kenya. The study highlights the importance of using zinc for diarrhea management, promoting oral rehydration solutions, water sanitation, and hygiene interventions.
Shingles vaccine among patients with psoriasis, RA not linked with increased risk of shingles
A large retrospective cohort study found that the live zoster vaccine is not associated with an increased risk of shingles in patients with immune-mediated diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. The study showed a significantly reduced longer-term risk of HZ in these patients after vaccination.
Study sheds light on pregnancy complications and overturns common belief
A study by Hospital for Special Surgery researchers has demonstrated that women with a specific type of antibody are at risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes. The study found that antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs), particularly lupus anticoagulant, increase the risk of complications such as fetal death, preterm delivery, and preeclampsia.
Shrinking leaves point to climate change
Researchers analyzed leaves from herbarium specimens and found a 2mm decrease in leaf width over 127 years. This response highlights the impact of climate change on Australian plant species, with Narrow-leaf Hopbush exhibiting narrower leaves in warmer temperatures.
Pre-industrial emissions still causing temperatures to rise
A climate model reveals that pre-industrial emissions from land use changes account for 9% of the increase in global mean temperature since the industrial revolution. Historical CO2 emissions from China and India, largely driven by population growth, continue to impact the atmosphere and climate today.
UAVForge reveals challenge of developing perch-and-stare UAV
UAVForge, a crowdsourcing competition, aimed to design and develop a militarily relevant small UAV. Despite over 140 teams participating, none successfully completed the fly-off event, highlighting asset cost and complexity hurdles.
Why current strategies for fighting obesity are not working
Researchers argue that a new focus on controlling energy balance and preventing weight gain is needed to combat the growing epidemic of obesity. By matching food intake to a higher level of physical activity, individuals can achieve 'energy balance' and maintain a healthy body weight.
Study results: Adult stem cells from bone marrow
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have discovered that adult stem cells from bone marrow can transform into cells of other organs, such as the heart, brain, and pancreas. This breakthrough has significant implications for treating diseases like diabetes, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's.
Discovery explains how cellular pathways converge to regulate food intake and body weight
A team of scientists at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center has identified the mechanism responsible for inhibition of AMPK activity in the hypothalamus, a crucial integration point where multiple signaling pathways converge. This discovery could lead to new treatments for metabolic diseases and cancer.
Obesity, larger waist size associated with better outcomes in heart failure patients
A new UCLA study found that obesity and a higher waist circumference reduce risk of adverse outcomes in advanced heart failure patients. Men and women with high BMI and waist circumference had significantly better event-free survival rates than those with normal weight.
Polio vaccination programs not reaching enough children in Afghanistan and Pakistan
A new study found that sharp declines in vaccine uptake led to an increase in polio cases in Afghanistan and Pakistan. The introduction of more effective vaccines has proven ineffective without sufficient coverage, highlighting the need for improved vaccination programs to eradicate polio globally.
New method knocks out stubborn electron problem
Scientists have developed a new method to accurately predict electron behavior in atoms and molecules, resolving the N-representability problem. This breakthrough enables more accurate calculations for phenomena such as combustion engine efficiency and atmospheric ozone depletion.
Social bats pay a price with new fungal disease
Researchers found that gregarious bat species will continue to decline due to white-nose syndrome, but changes in social behavior may help the little brown bat persist. In contrast, solitary species like the northern long-eared bat are more susceptible to the disease.
Researchers closer to understanding how proteins regulate immune system
Researchers have discovered the molecular structure of calmodulin's role in regulating L-selectin shedding, allowing white blood cells to move to sites of infection or inflammation. This understanding could lead to developing drug therapies to manipulate the immune system and address disorders caused by overactive immune responses.
In McNeil's Nebula, a young star flaunts its X-ray spots
Astronomers have observed a young star, V1647 Orionis, exhibiting intense X-ray activity in the McNeil's Nebula, driven by strong magnetic fields. The star's rapid rotation is also evident in its X-ray emission patterns.