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Science News for November 26, 2013


Better combustion through plasma

Researchers have discovered that introducing plasma to combustion reactions can sustain flames in conditions where they would normally be extinguished. This technology could significantly improve the efficiency of military jets, passenger planes, and unmanned drones by conserving fuel and extending flight times.

Implantable slimming aid

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed an implantable genetic circuit that monitors and regulates blood fat levels, reducing hunger and promoting weight loss in obese mice. The innovative device exploits the natural human satiety mechanism, providing a potential alternative to surgical interventions.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 26, 2013

2009 pandemic flu death toll much higher than official worldwide estimates

A recent study estimates the global death toll from the 2009 H1N1 outbreak to be up to 203,000 respiratory deaths, significantly higher than the World Health Organization's initial count of 18,449 laboratory-confirmed cases. The pandemic disproportionately affected younger people and certain regions, such as the Americas.

Genetics contribute to increased risk for end-stage renal disease for African Americans with CKD

A large study identifies genetic variants that contribute to the progression of chronic kidney disease in African Americans. APOL1 risk variants were found to be associated with higher rates of end-stage renal disease and progression of chronic kidney disease among black patients compared to white patients, regardless of diabetes status.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 26, 2013

Children are significantly more likely to develop PTSD if the mother is already afflicted

A Ben-Gurion University of the Negev study suggests that children are significantly more likely to develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) if their mother is already afflicted with the condition. The research found that over 21% of children exhibited PTSD symptoms, often accompanied by psychosomatic complaints such as constipatio...

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalJournal of Depression and Anxiety·DateNov 26, 2013

Scientists discover how leukemia cells exploit 'enhancer' DNA elements to cause lethal disease

Researchers discovered a unique leukemia-specific DNA enhancer element that enables cancerous blood cells to proliferate in Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), a devastating and incurable cancer. The study also reveals how a new class of promising drugs, including JQ1, halt the growth of cancer cells by targeting this enhancer element.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateNov 26, 2013

No qualms about quantum theory

A colloquium paper reviews selected issues with quantum theory, clarifying the distinction between mathematical tools and physical phenomena. The author debunks myths surrounding Schrödinger's cat state, measurement problem, and other misconceptions.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateNov 26, 2013

Scientists offer recommendations for delaying resistance to Bt corn in western corn rootworm

Western corn rootworm has shown resistance to Bt corn proteins, but a new study recommends using an integrated pest management approach to delay further resistance. The authors suggest rotating crops, using different Bt proteins, and implementing long-term monitoring to prolong the effectiveness of management strategies.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Integrated Pest Management·DateNov 26, 2013

Health insurance increases preventive care but not risky behaviors

Researchers at UC Davis and University of Rochester found that having health insurance increases use of preventive services like flu shots and health screenings, but does not affect risky health behaviors. The study contradicts a common concern that expanding healthcare coverage may encourage riskier behavior.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateNov 26, 2013

ADHD linked to social and economic disadvantage

A study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found a link between childhood ADHD and socioeconomic status in the UK. The research analyzed data from over 19,500 children born between 2000 and 2002, revealing that more children with ADHD came from families below the poverty line.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateNov 26, 2013

Wayne State part of team for license on new ways to manage cancer with green tea extracts

Wayne State University has licensed an intellectual property portfolio claiming composition of matter and methods of use of novel analogs and derivatives of the green tea flavonoid EGCG. The collaboration, involving Q. Ping Dou and Tak-Hang Chan, aims to develop novel approaches for cancer management and related conditions.

Guard dogs reduce killing of threatened species

Research shows that livestock guarding dogs can protect farm animals from predators, resulting in a 91% reduction in livestock losses. This leads to increased tolerance of predators among farmers, allowing for greater coexistence with threatened species like cheetahs.

SourceUniversity of Kent·JournalWildlife Society Bulletin·DateNov 26, 2013