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Science News for December 12, 2013


From friend to foe: How benign bacteria evolve to virulent pathogens

In a groundbreaking study, researchers found that benign E. coli bacteria can evolve to become pathogenic within 500 generations or 30 days when confronted with macrophages. The bacteria adapted by developing resistance to being killed by immune cells and acquiring traits similar to those of deadly pathogens.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateDec 12, 2013

Civilians trained by American mental health professionals bring healing to traumatized victims of Libya's civil war, Baylor study finds

A Baylor University study finds that Libyan civilians trained by American mental health professionals experience significant healing through peer-led groups, leading to a dramatic reduction in symptoms. The approach has implications for other countries with limited access to mental health services.

SourceBaylor University·JournalSouth African Journal of Psychology·DateDec 12, 2013

Peripheral immune system may regulate vulnerability to depression

A study suggests that immune cells outside the brain may contribute to depression, with elevated levels of interleukin-6 linked to increased depressive behaviors in rodents. Researchers found that mice transplanted with high-responding donors exhibited increased depression-like behaviors compared to those with low-responding donors.

SourceAmerican College of Neuropsychopharmacology·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateDec 12, 2013

Noble gas molecule discovered in space

A team of astronomers from Cardiff University has discovered a noble gas molecule, argon hydride, in the Crab Nebula. The find provides new insights into the chemistry of outer space and challenges previous assumptions about the conditions necessary for such molecules to form.

SourceCardiff University·JournalScience·DateDec 12, 2013

US ranks near bottom among industrialized nations in efficiency of health care spending

A study by UCLA and McGill researchers reveals that the US health care system is inefficient, ranking 22nd globally, with every dollar spent translating to less than half a month of increased life expectancy. The study also highlights significant gender disparities, with men experiencing greater gains in life expectancy than women.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateDec 12, 2013

Global map to predict giant earthquakes

Researchers have developed a new global map to predict giant earthquakes at subduction zones, including the Australian region. The study identified several regions capable of producing massive earthquakes, while others are not predicted to experience such events.

SourceMonash University·JournalPhysics of The Earth and Planetary Interiors·DateDec 12, 2013

Surprise: Duck-billed dinosaurs had fleshy 'cocks comb'

A rare mummified specimen of the duck-billed dinosaur Edmontosauraus regalis has revealed a fleshy comb on its head, similar to a rooster's red crest. This discovery dramatically alters our understanding of these gentle giants and raises the possibility of similar crests among other dinosaurs.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 12, 2013

Speeding up gene discovery

A new CRISPR approach enables researchers to study the entire genome at once, identifying genes essential for cell survival and potential cancer-causing genes. The technology could lead to more efficient and reliable alternatives to RNA interference, enabling targeted cancer treatments.

Dec. 2013 Lithosphere now available online

This issue of Lithosphere features studies on the Great Slave Lake shear zone in northwest Canada, which provides insight into the deep structure of ancient mountain belts. The research also explores the tectonic development of the Tibetan Plateau, revealing that faults responsible for its formation are restricted within the crust.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalLithosphere·DateDec 12, 2013

5 Michigan universities awarded NSF partnership grant to improve academic success

A collaborative project between five Michigan universities aims to increase the academic success of underrepresented minority graduate students and postdoctoral scholars in STEM fields, as well as women graduate students. The project will strengthen mentoring relationships and engage students in interdisciplinary learning communities.

Wayne State discovers potential treatment for skin and corneal wound healing in diabetics

A team of Wayne State University researchers identified transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) signaling as a major pathway affected by hyperglycemia in DM corneal epithelial cells. Adding TGFβ3 to the wound accelerated epithelial wound closure, providing new treatment options for diabetic wound healing.

NUS researchers develop novel bio-inspired method to grow high-quality graphene for high-end electronic devices

The NUS team has successfully developed a one-step method to grow and transfer high-quality graphene on silicon substrates, opening up opportunities for its use in photonics and electronics. The 'face-to-face transfer' method enables the technological application of graphene in optoelectronic modulators, transistors, and biosensors.

Light and sound fire scientists' imaginations

Researchers have discovered new abilities to manipulate light and sound using structured polymers, which could lead to breakthroughs in computing, sensing technology, and soundproofing. The findings suggest the potential for creating thin soundproofing materials that can guide rather than absorb sound.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 12, 2013

Should your surname carry a health warning?

Researchers found a significant link between the surname Brady and an increased risk of bradycardia, with patients named Brady more likely to require pacemakers compared to the general population. The study suggests that people may have a preference for careers connected to their name, influencing their health outcomes.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 12, 2013

Diet and physical activity may affect one's risk of developing kidney stones

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that even small amounts of physical activity can significantly decrease the risk of developing kidney stones. The research also discovered that consuming more than 2200 calories per day may increase the risk of developing kidney stones by up to 42%.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 12, 2013

Physical activity may slow kidney function decline in patients with kidney disease

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that increased physical activity can slow the progression of kidney disease in patients. The researchers discovered that each 60-minute increment in weekly physical activity was linked with a 0.5% slower decline per year in kidney function.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 12, 2013