3 X-class flares in 24 hours
The sun emitted a third significant solar flare, exceeding the strength of earlier X-class flares, with an associated coronal mass ejection (CME) traveling at approximately 1,400 miles per second
Science News Archive May 2013 - Page 18
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Same musicians: Brand new tune
A new study by Stowers Institute for Medical Research reveals that Notch2, a Notch family protein, shapes an eye structure known as the ciliary body by ensuring BMP signals remain loud and clear. The findings provide crucial insights into how excessive pressure is a risk factor for glaucoma.
SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2013
What impacts whether African Americans call 9-1-1 immediately for stroke symptoms?
A study by the University of Michigan found that African Americans are less likely to call 9-1-1 immediately after experiencing stroke symptoms due to concerns about medical costs and ambulance response time. The study aimed to address these barriers and improve prompt hospital care, as timely treatment can reduce permanent damage.
Alzheimer's markers predict start of mental decline
Researchers have identified biomarkers that can predict cognitive impairment up to 7.5 years before symptoms develop, with sex, age, and race also playing a role in the prediction. The findings provide valuable evidence for the development of new treatments targeting Alzheimer's disease before symptoms appear.
Illusion of control: Why sports fans prefer 'lucky' products
A study by Eric J. Hamerman and Gita V. Johar found that sports fans' superstitious behavior is driven by a desire for control and lower perceived ability to influence outcomes. Consumers may become conditioned to associate products with success or failure, creating an illusion of control over future events.
No significant change seen in overall smokeless tobacco use among US youths
Smokeless tobacco prevalence among US youths remained stable from 2000 to 2011, with declines observed in younger age groups. The prevalence increased in the 15-17 year age group. Evidence-based interventions are needed to reduce smokeless tobacco use.
Advertising product results? Put images closer together
A new study published in Journal of Consumer Research found that the proximity of product images to their desired outcomes affects consumer judgments. When products promise immediate results, companies should place images closer together in advertisements to optimize effectiveness.
Study evaluates long-term effectiveness of surgery for pelvic organ prolapse
A study evaluates long-term effectiveness of abdominal sacrocolpopexy surgery, finding that it effectively provides relief from POP symptoms but deteriorates over time. The procedure also decreases the risk of stress urinary incontinence, but mesh erosion remains a problem.
Can breastfeeding protect against ADHD?
A new study found that breastfeeding at 3 and 6 months of age was associated with a lower risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. The research suggests that breastfeeding may have protective effects against ADHD, which is a common neurodevelopmental disorder.
SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalBreastfeeding Medicine·DateMay 14, 2013
Cardio and weight training reduces access to health care in seniors
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that women aged 70-80 who participated in cardio or weight training classes incurred fewer healthcare resources compared to those in balance and toning classes. This cost-effective approach may help improve cognitive health and reduce healthcare costs for seniors.
New drug enhances radiation treatment for brain cancer in preclinical studies
A new drug has shown significant promise in extending survival when used in combination with radiation therapy for brain cancer patients. The experimental drug, KU-60019, blocks the activation of ATM kinase, leading to enhanced destruction of glioma cells.
Slim women have a greater risk of developing endometriosis than obese women
A recent study found that morbidly obese women have a significantly lower risk of developing endometriosis compared to those with low normal BMI. The association was strongest in infertile women, who had a 77% lower rate of endometriosis
SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateMay 14, 2013
Cooling ocean temperature could buy more time for coral reefs
Researchers found that limiting greenhouse warming to three watts per square metre can slow coral reef habitat loss. However, artificial temperature regulation through solar radiation geoengineering may have unintended consequences on tropical corals.
UCLA study shows warming in central China greater than most climate models indicated
Researchers used clumped isotope thermometry to determine temperatures on land during the last ice age, finding a 2-4 times greater increase than previously thought. Climate models that accurately depicted atmospheric processes were more accurate in predicting temperature changes.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2013
NJIT computer scientist publishes new algorithm cluster to data mine health records
Lian Duan's new algorithm cluster improves adverse drug effect detection by 23.83% in simulated medical outcomes dataset. NJIT has a history of assisting New Jersey physicians with electronic health information technology, and Duan's research has applications in various industries.
SourceNew Jersey Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Journal of Biomedical and Health Informatics·DateMay 14, 2013
Surgery for common woman's condition may not be effective over long-term
A JAMA study found that surgery for pelvic organ prolapse, specifically abdominal sacrocolpopexy, loses effectiveness over time. Despite initial success, women experience progressive loss of anatomic support and mesh erosion, a complication of the procedure.
Do potatoes grow on vines? A review of the wild relatives of some favorite food plants
A comprehensive study revises the taxonomy of Solanum species, including the description of a new species endemic to Ecuador. The research highlights the diversity and rarity of these plants, many of which are threatened or endangered.
Learning to recycle: Does political ideology matter?
A new study reveals that targeted messages based on political orientation can significantly influence consumers' recycling intentions. Consumers who identify as liberals respond better to appeals focused on fairness and reducing harm, while conservatives are more likely to recycle when appeals emphasize group membership or authority. T...
Widespread but neglected disease a health threat in Africa, Virginia Tech researchers say
Researchers at Virginia Tech have identified leptospirosis as a significant health threat in Botswana, where the disease can cause flu-like symptoms, meningitis, and even death if untreated. The pathogen was found in banded mongoose, which can transmit the disease to humans through contaminated water or soil.
Cutting-edge bacteria research leads to more effective treatment of complex infections
Researchers at the University of Southern Denmark have made a groundbreaking discovery about bacterial biofilm formation, a major contributor to complicated infections. The study found that small RNA molecules play a crucial role in determining whether bacteria form biofilms or swim, offering new avenues for treating such infections.
Untangling the tree of life
Researchers analyze over 1,000 genes from 23 yeast species to identify reasons for conflicting phylogenetic trees and propose new methods to improve accuracy. They find that genetic data is less reliable during periods of rapid radiation and that the value of DNA data may have a similar limit.
Carnegie Mellon to present Leslie Ungerleider with Andrew Carnegie Prize in Mind and Brain Sciences
Leslie Ungerleider will receive the inaugural Andrew Carnegie Prize in Mind and Brain Sciences for her groundbreaking research on brain functions and their relevance to public health. Her neurobehavioral theory has revolutionized the understanding of human vision, setting high standards for cognitive neuroscience.
Community groups and neonatal mortality in Vietnam
A cluster randomized trial in Vietnam found community groups reduced neonatal mortality by half after three years, while also increasing antenatal care attendance. The study showed that community-based activities can be implemented at low cost and are effective in reducing neonatal mortality.
New program successful in reducing service and substance use among frequent health care users
A new program, co-led by St. Michael's Hospital, has shown promise in reducing service use and substance abuse among frequent healthcare users with severe addictions. The Toronto Community Addiction Team provides one-on-one intensive case management, resulting in a statistically significant decrease in service use, alcohol, and drug use.
Racial minorities live on the front lines of heat risk, study finds
A new study by researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, highlights racial disparities in heat vulnerability. The findings show that areas with no tree canopy and high heat-absorbing surfaces disproportionately affect African Americans, Asians, and Hispanics.
The search for an early biomarker to fight atherosclerosis
Researchers at the Montreal Heart Institute have discovered a blood protein that contributes to the early development of atherosclerosis. Angiopoietin-like protein 2 (angptl2) is found six times higher in subjects with coronary heart disease than healthy individuals, making it a potential early biomarker for the condition.
Primary care physicians vital to complete care of prostate cancer patients
A new study found that bone mineral density testing is not routine among men receiving androgen deprivation therapy, but those with primary care physicians are more likely to receive the test. This highlights the importance of primary care physicians in bone care for men with prostate cancer.
Pitt chemists demonstrate nanoscale alloys so bright they could have potential medical applications
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have demonstrated nanoscale alloys that emit bright near-infrared light, which could be used for cancer detection and treatment. The findings have the potential to lead to new applications in health and energy fields.
Crop rotation with nematode-resistant wheat can protect tomatoes
A study found that rotating nematode-resistant wheat with tomato plants reduces nematode numbers in soil and protects the next crop. The resistant wheat was bred with a gene that makes it less susceptible to root-knot nematodes, which cause significant damage to crops worldwide.
Asymptomatic carriage of M. pneumoniae common in children
A study published in PLOS Medicine reveals that Mycoplasma pneumoniae is carried at high rates in the upper respiratory tracts of healthy children. The researchers found no significant difference in prevalence between asymptomatic and symptomatic groups, highlighting limitations in current diagnostic tests.
Local community group activities may help reduce neonatal mortality in Vietnam
A study by Uppsala University researchers found that community-based activities in rural Vietnam reduced neonatal mortality rates to half those in control communes, with a significant increase in antenatal care attendance. The interventions were implemented over three years and showed promising results for reducing neonatal deaths.
Non-communicable diseases account for half of adult female deaths in rural Bangladesh
A Johns Hopkins study finds that non-communicable diseases account for 48% of investigated female deaths in rural Bangladesh between 2002 and 2007. The main causes are circulatory system diseases and cancer. Reviewing global health priorities to address neglected non-communicable diseases affecting rural women is urgently needed.
SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalBritish Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology·DateMay 14, 2013
Brain-imaging study links cannabinoid receptors to post-traumatic stress disorder
Researchers at NYU Langone Health discovered a connection between CB1 receptors and PTSD, finding that individuals with PTSD have lower levels of neurotransmitter anandamide. This breakthrough may lead to the development of novel evidence-based treatments for PTSD.
SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateMay 14, 2013
Saudi Arabia looks to NREL for solar monitoring expertise
Saudi Arabia is working with the US Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to set up networks for measuring solar radiation in varying meteorological conditions. The partnership aims to train Saudi engineers and install over 50 monitoring stations to gauge the best spots for solar power plants.
Massage therapy shown to improve stress response in preterm infants
A study published in Early Human Development found that massage therapy increased heart rate variability in male preterm infants, similar to term infants, suggesting improved stress response. However, female preterm infants did not show a significant increase in HRV after massage therapy.
BMJ calls for new and stronger partnerships to improve healthcare
The BMJ argues that clinicians and patients must work together to challenge entrenched practices and behaviours in healthcare. The journal emphasizes the importance of patient partnership in improving health systems and encourages a fundamental shift in power structures.
Women's immune systems remain younger for longer
Research found that women's immune systems decline slower with age compared to men's, particularly in lymphocytes. This slower aging of the immune system may contribute to women's overall longevity.
First precise MEMS output measurement technique unveiled
A new experimental set-up developed by Dr Alexandre Bounouh's team at LNE in France accurately measures mechanical values and properties of MEMS devices through electrical measurement. The technique uses a current with varying frequency to analyze the harmonic content of the output voltage, determining mechanical characteristics such a...
Playing at pirate games
A study of BitTorrent file-sharing found that digital game piracy is more prevalent than thought, with popular titles like Fallout: New Vegas and Call of Duty: Black Ops driving most sharing activity. The analysis contradicts common myths, showing that children's and family games are also pirated.
SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Advanced Media and Communication·DateMay 14, 2013
Making gold green: New non-toxic method for mining gold
Northwestern University researchers have discovered a new method for extracting gold that uses cornstarch instead of cyanide, leaving behind other metals. The process is environmentally benign and more efficient than current commercial methods.
Relationship troubles? Some sad music might help you feel better
A recent study reveals that individuals experiencing relationship problems tend to prefer aesthetic experiences that match their negative mood. Consumers seek out music and other art forms that reflect their emotions as a substitute for lost relationships.
Microbes capture, store, and release nitrogen to feed reef-building coral
Coral-building microbes have been found to capture, store, and release nitrogen to feed reef-forming corals. The microbes' ability to store excess nitrogen in crystal form allows them to regulate the amount of nutrients available to the coral host, enabling it to thrive in low-nitrogen environments.
Digital mammography cancer detection rates may vary significantly
A new study suggests that digital direct radiography (DR) is significantly more effective than computed radiography (CR) in detecting breast cancer. DR detected 4.9 cancers per 1,000 mammograms, while CR's detection rate was 21% lower, with 3.4 cancers per 1,000 mammograms.
£5.6m national collaboration to develop the next generation of computing systems
A £5.6m UK national collaboration, PRiME, aims to design and implement energy-efficient embedded systems with many-core processors. The project will tackle global societal challenges by preventing uncontrolled energy consumption and unreliability in these systems.
Male testosterone levels increase when victorious in competition against rivals, but not friends
A University of Missouri study found that male testosterone levels surge during group competitions against rivals, but remain unchanged when competing with friends. This hormonal reaction is linked to the evolution of human cooperation and coalition formation.
But what does it do?
A comprehensive online database of human phosphatases and their substrates has been created to aid researchers in understanding cellular reactions. The database, DEPOD, groups phosphatases into families based on three-dimensional structure, enabling the identification of known substrates and suggestion of new ones.
NRL's MIGHTI slated for launch on ICON mission
The NRL-developed MIGHTI instrument will measure neutral winds and temperatures in the Earth's low-latitude thermosphere. The ICON mission aims to understand space weather events' impact on the ionosphere.
Implementation research and child diarrhea
A global expert group recommends increased focus on implementing known interventions to combat childhood diarrheal diseases. Oral rehydration solutions and zinc supplementation are also emphasized for further research development. The report aims to inform Global Action Plan for Diarrhoea and Pneumonia efforts.
Fossil saved from mule track revolutionizes understanding of ancient dolphin-like marine reptile
A new species of ichthyosaur from Iraq, named Malawania anachronus, has been discovered, contradicting previous theories on the evolution and extinction of these ancient marine reptiles. The discovery reveals that ichthyosaurs remained diverse during the early part of the Cretaceous period.
Comorbidities should be factor in prostate biopsy choice, UCI study finds
A new UCI study found that assessing comorbidities can help target prostate cancer patients who may not benefit from a biopsy, potentially reducing unnecessary procedures. The study identified 20% of men as high-risk due to existing health conditions, suggesting alternative care options.
Nearly 50 percent increase in ICU admissions, new study says
A new study reveals a significant increase in US ICU admissions, rising from 2.79 million to 4.14 million over seven years, primarily due to an aging population. The study found that emergency department utilization of tests and services also increased, with CT and MRI tests provided on the way to the ICU jumping by 61%.
SourceGeorge Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateMay 14, 2013
Center for Clinical and Translational Science awards new pilot grants
The UIC Center for Clinical and Translational Science has selected six research projects to receive $30,000 per year pilot grants. These grants aim to support the development of new ideas and generate preliminary data for applying for highly competitive grants from outside sources.
Fish oil may stall effects of junk food on brain
Research suggests fish oils can minimize the negative effects of junk food on brain function by stimulating areas that control feeding, learning, and memory. Omega-3s may also prevent refined sugars and saturated fats from inhibiting the brain's control over food intake.
Study IDs key protein for cell death
Researchers at MIT have identified ALKBH7 as a key protein involved in programmed necrosis, a cell death pathway that can help prevent cancer cells from surviving DNA damage. By mimicking the effects of this protein, drugs may be able to induce necrosis in resistant cancer cells, providing a new potential target for cancer treatment.
CWRU researcher searches for global views of nurses' end-of-life care for patients
A study of 1,089 nurses from diverse countries found that global views on end-of-life care preferences diverge between patients and themselves. Lack of knowledge about the patient's wishes and duty as a caregiver were key factors influencing these differences.
Human disease leptospirosis identified in new species, the banded mongoose, in Africa
Researchers found that the banded mongoose in Botswana carries Leptospira interrogans, the pathogen that causes leptospirosis. The study highlights the widespread but neglected disease as a significant public health risk in Africa.
Corals turn to algae for stored food when times get tough
Researchers at EPFL discover that corals depend strongly on algae to extract nutrients from the water. The algae temporarily store nitrogen in the form of uric acid crystals, building up reserves for times when supplies run low. This symbiotic relationship is crucial for coral survival in nutrient-poor environments.
UC Riverside scientists discovering new uses for tiny carbon nanotubes
Researchers have found a way to modify the optical transparency of single-walled carbon nanotube films in a controlled pattern by adding an ionic liquid, enabling applications such as Smart Windows and more efficient electronics.
IT industry ignores silver surfers at its peril
Research suggests that manufacturers are foolish to ignore the needs of senior citizens, who face physical and cognitive disabilities that benefit from accessible hardware and software. The study highlights the importance of addressing the needs of all society, not just younger generations.
SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Intercultural Information Management·DateMay 14, 2013
Mental health and NCDs
Collaborative care models integrate NCD care and mental health services in primary care settings, strengthening healthcare systems and reducing costs. Implementation of these models requires investments in human resources and research to address the global burden of mental health and non-communicable diseases.