Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive March 2013 - Page 2


Page 2 of 30

Common gene variants explain 42 percent of antidepressant response

A new study published in Biological Psychiatry found that common genetic variants explain 42% of individual differences in antidepressant response, providing a significant step towards personalized treatment for depression. The research identified multiple genetic markers involved in predicting response to antidepressants.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMar 28, 2013

Robot ants successfully mimic real colony behavior

A team of researchers successfully replicated the behavior of a moving ant colony using miniature robots, called Alices. The robots navigated mazes by following chemical pheromone trails and directional random walks, demonstrating that efficient navigation can be achieved with minimal cognitive abilities.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMar 28, 2013

Common -- but without a name

The newly described species, Pyropia plicata, has a distinctive growth form with pleated blades and beautiful coloration. It is highly prized by Maori in New Zealand as karengo and is also eaten worldwide for its high protein content.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalPhytoKeys·DateMar 28, 2013

Rise in CF patient infections explained

A recent study published in The Lancet reveals evidence for transmission of Mycobacterium abscessus between Cystic Fibrosis patients through DNA sequencing, highlighting the global spread of antibiotic-resistant bacterial species. The research team developed new measures to protect Cystic Fibrosis patients from this emerging threat.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 28, 2013

Study: 'Waste heat' may economize CO2 capture

A Rice University team has found that using waste heat can remove more CO2 from coal-fired power plant emissions economically. The researchers hope to reduce the costs of CO2 capture by creating an integrated reaction column that uses waste heat, engineered materials and optimized components.

SourceRice University·JournalInternational Journal of Greenhouse Gas Control·DateMar 28, 2013

Human emotion: We report our feelings in 3-D

A new study published in Biological Psychiatry found that humans report emotions in three distinct systems: attention, categorization, and intensity. The researchers used brain scans to examine the neural architecture underlying emotional reports.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMar 27, 2013

HIV sufferers need hepatitis safeguards

A new study by Michigan State University found that about four percent of HIV-positive individuals also have hepatitis, highlighting the need for stronger protections against co-infection. The study reveals that behaviors putting people at risk of HIV also increase their risk of getting hepatitis B or C.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEpidemiology and Infection·DateMar 27, 2013

Telling tales can be a good thing

A recent study found that mothers tend to elaborate more and use more emotional terms when reminiscing with their children than fathers. This increased interaction helps mothers communicate the importance of their child's feelings and experiences, leading to better emotional well-being.

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateMar 27, 2013

Do intellectual property rights on existing technologies hinder subsequent innovation?

A recent study published in the Journal of Political Economy suggests that intellectual property rights on existing technologies can discourage subsequent scientific research. Researchers found a persistent 20-30% reduction in subsequent scientific research and product development for genes held by Celera's intellectual property.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Political Economy·DateMar 27, 2013

How herpesvirus invades nervous system

Researchers at Northwestern University identified a viral protein, VP1/2, that allows herpesvirus to interact with cellular motors and speed through the nervous system. This breakthrough enables the virus to move unobstructed from skin nerves to neuron nuclei, outcompeting most other viruses.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMar 27, 2013

Pinning down the pain

A key protein in Schwann cells is essential for normal interactions between nerve cells and Schwann cells, regulating the steps that lead to nerve regeneration. Deficiency of this protein may lead to chronic neuropathic pain, motivating the development of a small molecule drug to mimic its function.

What's between a slip and a slide?

A new study from the University of Sheffield used a test machine to measure friction on tennis court surfaces, finding that sand particle size affects clay court friction, particularly when wet. The research aims to create international standards for court surfaces to inform players about court conditions and improve player safety.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalProceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers Part P Journal of Sports Engineering and Technology·DateMar 27, 2013