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Science News Archive April 2013 - Page 13


Page 13 of 32

From mice to humans, comfort is being carried by mom

Infants experience an automatic calming reaction upon being carried, characterized by slowed heart rates, reduced movement, and cessation of crying. This phenomenon, observed in both human and mouse babies, is mediated by the parasympathetic nervous system and may have implications for parenting strategies to prevent child abuse.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 18, 2013

Reinventing drug discovery

A new stem-cell based drug screening technology has identified a compound that prolongs the life of motor neurons in both normal and ALS-affected cells. The study found kenpaullone, which inhibits HGK, an enzyme associated with motor neuron death, to be more effective than two failed drugs in human clinical trials.

SourceHarvard University·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateApr 18, 2013

Superstorm Sandy shook the US

A study by University of Utah researchers found that superstorm Sandy caused significant seismic activity along the East Coast as well as in the Atlantic Ocean. The storm's 'standing waves' created energy at the seafloor, detectable by seismometers across the US.

Why do babies calm down when they are carried?

A study by RIKEN Brain Science Institute researchers found that human babies and mouse pups relax when carried due to a combination of nervous, motor, and cardiac responses. This infant calming response is beneficial for both mother and child, reducing maternal burden and promoting interaction.

SourceRIKEN·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 18, 2013

Electronic zippers control DNA strands

Researchers have invented a new way to zip and unzip DNA strands using electrochemistry, enabling fast control at constant temperatures without dramatic changes in solution conditions. This method uses DNA intercalators that bind differently to DNA depending on their electrical state, allowing for rapid and precise control.

SourceNational Physical Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 18, 2013

Phosphate-binding drug does not improve heart health of patients with mild kidney disease

A study found that a phosphate-binding drug did not reduce cardiovascular measures in patients with early chronic kidney disease, suggesting dietary restriction may be the best way to mitigate phosphate's negative effects on the heart. Higher blood phosphate levels increase the risk of dying from heart-related causes.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 18, 2013

Making fruit easier to eat increases sales and consumption in school cafeterias

A recent study by Cornell University's Food and Brand Lab found that pre-sliced fruit in school cafeterias leads to increased fruit sales and consumption, particularly among younger students. The research showed a significant increase of 73% in students who ate more than half of their apple after the introduction of fruit slicers.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateApr 17, 2013

Reducing the pain of movement in intensive care

A new study published in Critical Care finds that reducing movement in ICUs can decrease severe pain and serious adverse events, while increasing analgesic use. The training program implemented by the University of Montpellier Saint Eloi Hospital increased staff awareness and reduced side effects.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalCritical Care·DateApr 17, 2013

Simple reminders may help prevent fractures

A recent study found that simple educational strategies targeting doctors and patients after a fracture significantly improved osteoporosis testing rates, reducing fractures by two fewer per 1,000 patients. Mail-based notice interventions were effective and cost-efficient, with projected savings of $18,000 for every 1,000 patients.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 17, 2013

Common osteoporosis drug slows formation of new bone

A recent study found that zoledronic acid, a common osteoporosis drug, not only slows bone loss but also increases levels of sclerostin, a biomarker that inhibits bone formation. This suggests that combination treatments may be needed to effectively treat osteoporosis and increase bone mass.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 17, 2013

Virus-like particles provide vital clues about brain tumors

Researchers at Lund University have discovered that exosome molecular profiles reflect the aggressiveness of brain tumours, offering a new approach for diagnosis and treatment. The study's findings suggest that exosomes could serve as biomarkers to guide patient care and monitor treatment response.

SourceLund University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 17, 2013