More REEs please
The US is largely dependent on foreign sources for rare earth elements, a trend exacerbated by global demand. Dr. Lawrence Meinert highlights the need for domestic development and secure supply chains to mitigate disruptions.
Science News Archive October 2013
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Scientists shine light on world's least-studied bat
A team of bat biologists shed new light on the Mortlock Islands flying fox, revealing its first detailed observations of wild populations and a wider geographic distribution than previously thought. The species is facing threats from rising ocean waters brought on by climate change, posing a serious risk to its habitat and food resources.
How poverty molds the brain
Research at Northwestern University finds that adolescents from lower maternal educational backgrounds have noisier neural activity, erratic responses to speech sounds, and poorer reading performance. The study suggests that poverty can shape the brain's representation of auditory information.
Canadian discoveries pivotal to the science of toxins and illness associated with E. coli
Canadian researchers identified key contributors to understanding verotoxigenic E. coli (VTEC) and its associated illnesses, including Dr. Jack Konowalchuk and Mohamed Karmali's association of VTEC with hemolytic-uremic syndrome. The study highlights the significant burden and impact of E. coli-associated infections worldwide.
GW researchers examine increased ER reimbursements after ACA insurance coverage expansions
Researchers at George Washington University found that outpatient emergency department encounters could reimburse more for patients gaining Medicaid or private insurance through the Affordable Care Act. On average, uninsured patients who will be eligible for Medicaid would receive 17% higher reimbursement per visit, while those becomin...
NASA sees Tropical Storm Raymond fading fast
Tropical Storm Raymond's maximum rainfall intensity was only about 33.6mm/hour, and its winds weakened to near 50mph/85kph on Oct. 29. The storm is expected to become a remnant low in a day or so due to cooler ocean temperatures and southwesterly wind shear.
Autism Speaks announces 3 additional 2013 Weatherstone Predoctoral Fellows
The Weatherstone Fellowship program supports the development of rising talent in autism research, providing critical resources for building early careers. The five 2013 recipients will work directly with mentors and collaborate with others to share knowledge and experiences.
Unpublished trial data 'violates an ethical obligation' to study participants, say researchers
A recent study found that almost 1 in 3 large clinical trials remain unpublished five years after completion, with 78% having no results publicly available. This phenomenon violates an ethical obligation towards study participants, highlighting the need for additional safeguards to ensure timely public dissemination of trial data.
Scientists reduce behaviors associated with problem gambling in rats
Researchers at University of British Columbia successfully reduced behaviors associated with problem gambling in rats by blocking dopamine D4 receptors. The study found that rats treated with the drug exhibited reduced levels of behaviours like near-misses, offering new hope for treating gambling addiction.
New study on neurodevelopmental effects of prenatal exposure to paracetamol
A new study suggests that prenatal exposure to paracetamol may increase the risk of adverse effects on child development, including poorer gross motor skills and behavioral problems. The study found that occasional use for short periods is likely not harmful to the fetus, but more research is needed to confirm these results.
This week in Molecular Biology and Evolution: A step ahead of influenza, honeybee sex
Researchers track drug resistance against flu viruses using extensive database analysis, finding most mutations are on the wane. Honeybees' genetic control behind sex determination studied, revealing 116-145 csd alleles worldwide and a novel function arising every 400,000 years.
Less toxic metabolites, more chemical product
Researchers at Joint BioEnergy Institute create dynamic pathway regulation using stress-response promoters to improve chemical product production. This approach enables regulation of artificial metabolic pathways in response to toxic intermediate metabolites.
International research team weighs in on the negative consequences of noise on overall health
The review team found that long-term exposure to environmental noise affects the cardiovascular system, with connections to hypertension, ischemic heart diseases, and stroke. Noise also impacts sleep disturbance, children's cognition, and hospital settings.
Stanford faculty awarded $2.2 million for innovative energy research
Eleven Stanford researchers have received funding for promising new clean energy and efficiency projects, including studies on hybrid car performance, natural ventilation systems, and smart meter data analysis. The awards total $2.2 million and support early work on concepts with high potential impact on energy production and use.
Thawing permafrost: The speed of coastal erosion in Eastern Siberia has nearly doubled
Scientists report nearly double coastal erosion speed in Eastern Siberia due to rising summer temperatures and Arctic sea ice retreat. The study reveals a significant increase in wave-driven erosion, with the island of Muostakh at risk of disappearing.
New molecular target for malaria control identified
A new study has shown that egg development in malaria mosquitoes depends on a switch activated by a male hormone delivered during sex, which could be a viable strategy for controlling the disease. Blocking this switch may impair the ability of the species to reproduce.
Green flame moths: Scientists discover 2 new Limacodidae species from China and Taiwan
Two new species of green flame moths, Parasa viridiflamma and Parasa minwangi, are discovered from China and Taiwan. The moths have a distinctive green pattern on their wings and feed exclusively on pine trees, showcasing conifer-feeding behavior in the Limacodidae family.
Extracting energy from bacteria
Researchers have developed a new method to extract energy from bacteria, which can convert carbon dioxide in seawater into fuel and electricity. This process involves the use of electrode reactions catalyzed by microorganisms, resulting in highly efficient energy production.
How a metamaterial might improve a depression treatment
A new headpiece design could improve a depression treatment by allowing researchers to hit finer targets in the brain, up to twice as deep as today's systems. The system uses computer simulations and metamaterials to reduce pain and increase effectiveness.
CRF and UCR announce initiation of PROSPECT II clinical trial
The PROSPECT II trial will enroll 900 patients with acute coronary syndrome to assess the ability of intracoronary near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to identify non-flow obstructing vulnerable plaques. The study will also evaluate the feasibility of a bioresorbable scaffold in preventing future major adverse cardiovascular events.
Researchers discover how cancer 'invisibility cloak' works
Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) inhibits immune response against cancer by binding to killer T cells, preventing them from recognizing and attacking nascent tumors. The LPA5 receptor is responsible for this inhibition, which can halt tumor growth.
Irukandji threat to southern waters
A Griffith University-led study has found that ocean acidification may inhibit the development of juvenile Irukandji jellyfish, potentially providing some protection for South East Queenslanders. The research also highlights the risk of Irukandji expansion into new areas due to climate change.
Researchers turn to technology to discover a novel way of mapping landscapes
University of Cincinnati researchers developed a new method for mapping landscape types using machine vision technology, discovering 15 distinctive landscape types in northern Georgia. The technique can be applied to socio-economic data, such as U.S. Census data, allowing for more efficient geographic research and land management.
Climate change has silver lining for grizzlies
A 10-year study found that warmer temperatures and forest disturbances helped grizzlies build more body fat, increasing their chances of successful reproduction. This 'silver spoon effect' benefits bears born into favourable conditions, giving them a head-start in life.
Study maps human impacts on top ocean predators along US west coast
A new study reveals areas of high human impact on marine predators such as whales, seals, and turtles along the US west coast. The research used tracking data and mapping to identify key habitats and areas for conservation efforts.
The people's choice: Americans would pay to help monarch butterflies
A recent study suggests that Americans would support monarch butterfly conservation by paying up to $6.5 billion if extrapolated to all U.S. households. This universal popularity of monarchs could encourage a market for monarch-friendly plants.
Chewing their way to success
Researchers analyzed teeth of mice and rats using X-ray beams to study evolutionary processes that led to their characteristic feature. The team identified two key moments in the acquisition of this apparatus, dating back 16 million years.
Scientists wary of shale oil and gas as US energy salvation
Scientists warn that shale oil and gas production in the US is not sustainable due to declining energy returns on investment (EROI) and high costs. Despite tripling of prices, global fossil-fuel production has stagnated or declined, making it unlikely for the US to become a net oil exporter.
A large, observational study of common gout treatment allopurinol shows less than half of patients reach recommended treatment goal
A large observational study found that only 43% of patients with gout achieved the recommended serum uric acid level after taking allopurinol. The study showed no new safety signals with the commonly used treatment.
Can pediatricians successfully promote safe driving agreements between teens and parents?
A study found that pediatricians can successfully promote safe driving agreements between teens and parents using a web-based Checkpoints TM program. Nearly 4,000 parents were reached, resulting in over 2,100 website visits and an average of 3.5 minutes spent on the site.
Clemson, Dartmouth use $1.5M grant to develop mobile health technology
Researchers are developing a general framework for secure, privacy-preserving wearable mHealth devices that complement smartphone capabilities. The Amulet project aims to provide seamless integration of health data into everyday life.
Carnegie Mellon and University at Buffalo researchers improving transit for people with disabilities
Researchers will use Tiramisu Transit to understand how real-time trip information and community dialog empower accessible travel. The center will also design faster, safer, and more accessible boarding and disembarking processes for buses. Additionally, the team will develop software systems to help riders during multi-modal trips.
Child brides at funerals
Research in South Asian countries reveals that young maternal age and rapid pregnancies are major factors contributing to high infant mortality rates. In India and Pakistan, these factors account for nearly one-quarter of infant mortality among young mothers, leading to approximately 200,000 infant deaths annually.
1, 2, buckle my shoe
Children who speak dual-marking languages grasp the concept of 'two' earlier than English-speaking counterparts and learn number words faster. The study suggests that naturalistic speech is critical to number word learning, but teaching routines are still necessary for later math performance.
Obese women alter diets in response to additional calories from soft drinks
A recent study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that obese women voluntarily reduced their dietary intake by 378kcal in response to additional sugar-sweetened drinks. The researchers discovered that these women were able to compensate for most of the extra calories by decreasing energy intakes from other sources.
Study of Brazilian Amazon shows 50,000 km of road was built in just 3 years
A new study reveals that nearly 17,000 kilometres of road were built in the Brazilian Amazon every year between 2004 and 2007. This expansion had a significant ecological impact, with indirect effects including changes in air and soil temperature, moisture, and animal movement restrictions.
Dr. Avrum Spira receives award for advancing research on tobacco smoke's effect on lungs
Dr. Avrum Spira has received the Alton Ochsner Award for his seminal research contributions to understanding the biological response of lung tissue to tobacco smoke. His work has led to the development of early detection biomarkers for lung cancer and molecular biomarkers for COPD treatment guidance.
Virtually numbed: Immersive video gaming alters real-life experience
A study published in Psychonomic Bulletin & Review found that spending time immersed as a virtual character in role-playing video games can numb people to realizing important body signals in real life. Participants who played immersive video games showed reduced sensitivity to pain and were more indifferent to others' displeasure.
Young fibromyalgia patients report worse symptoms than older patients, Mayo Clinic study shows
Fibromyalgia symptoms worsen with age, according to a Mayo Clinic study. Young and middle-aged patients experience more severe physical health problems and lower quality of life compared to their older counterparts.
Traces of DNA exposed by twisted light
Researchers at University of Michigan and Jiangnan University have developed a new method for detecting DNA using twisted light, achieving 50 times better sensitivity than current methods. This technology has the potential to aid in diagnosing patients, solving crimes, and identifying biological contaminants.
Regular cocaine and cannabis use may trigger addictive behaviors
Research reveals that regular cannabis users exhibit increased impulsive behavior, impaired critical thinking skills, and reduced executive function, while cocaine users show heightened impulsivity and decreased impulse control. Long-term use of both substances may trigger addictive behaviors due to altered brain function.
Tell-tale toes point to oldest-known fossil bird tracks from Australia
Fossilized footprints found at Dinosaur Cove in Victoria, Australia, reveal the oldest known bird tracks in the country, dating back to the Early Cretaceous period. The analysis, led by paleontologist Anthony Martin, sheds light on the evolution of flight and the connection between birds and non-avian dinosaurs.
GVSU study on gender: Who counts as a man and who counts as a woman
A new study by Grand Valley State University researchers examines the criteria for determining gender in sex-segregated spaces, revealing a shift from biological factors to self-identity. The study finds that while self-identity is sufficient in many circumstances, biology still plays a significant role in these spaces, leading to 'gen...
Public wants labels for food nanotech -- and they're willing to pay for it
A new study found that US consumers are in favor of labeling food products with nanotechnology, and some are willing to pay up to 25% more for labeled products. The research suggests that people want access to reliable information about the risks associated with labeled products.
Local communities produce high-quality forest monitoring data, rivals that of professional foresters
A study by ICRAF and European institutions finds that local communities using simple tools can produce accurate forest carbon data on par with results by professional foresters. Community-gathered data is also found to be more legitimate, cost-effective, and improve trust among local communities.
Untangling Alzheimer's disease
Researchers have identified specific molecules called microRNAs that regulate both good and bad protein levels in the brain. Targeting these molecules may help preserve brain function and detect Alzheimer's disease at an earlier age.
Quantum reality more complex than previously thought
Physicists from the University of Warsaw and Gdansk University of Technology discovered that polarization plays a significant role in interference between quantum particles. The research allowed for the estimation of information leakage, with potential applications in quantum cryptography.
Data shows VisionGate's 3D imaging platform accurately detects lung cancer in sputum
The Cell-CT platform detected lung cancer in patient sputum samples with a sensitivity of over 95% and specificity of 99.8%. The technology creates comprehensive 3D digital images of cells, making it possible to determine the presence or absence of cancer with great accuracy.
Excess omega-3 fatty acids could lead to negative health effects
A new review suggests that high levels of omega-3 fatty acid consumption can lead to immune system dysfunction and increased risk of infections. Researchers say there is a need for evidence-based dietary standards and biomarkers to determine safe intake levels.
Your pain, my gain: Feeling pleasure over the misfortune of those you envy is biological
Researchers found that people smile more when someone they envy experiences discomfort, a phenomenon known as Schadenfreude. This reaction was strongest for groups associated with high status and competition, such as rich professionals.
Pregnant women with hepatitis C may pass heartier viral strain to newborns, study suggests
A new study suggests that pregnant women with hepatitis C can pass a more replicative viral strain to their newborns, which increases the risk of persistent infection. This occurs due to immune changes during pregnancy, which impair CD8+ T-cell function and allow the virus to thrive.
Resurgence in swaddling prompts fears of rise in babies' developmental hip abnormalities
A resurgence in swaddling has raised concerns about developmental hip problems in babies, with a link to osteoarthritis and hip replacement in middle age. Swaddling can be safe if done correctly, but delaying natural development of the hip joints is a risk factor.
South Asians in Peel have lower cancer screening rates; increased risk of preventable disease
Research reveals South Asian-Canadians in Peel have a 15% lower rate of cancer screening, making them more vulnerable to cancer deaths. The study attributes this disparity to barriers such as long wait times and limited education on cancer risk factors.
New technology shows promise in taking the guesswork out of vaccine development
Scientists at Arizona State University have developed a microchip-based technology called immunosignature diagnosis that can rapidly measure an individual's vaccine response. This innovation has the potential to significantly reduce the costs and timeframes of vaccine testing, allowing for more effective vaccines to be identified.
Poverty in early childhood appears associated with brain development
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that poverty in early childhood is associated with smaller brain volumes, including white matter, cortical gray matter, and hippocampal volume. The effects of poverty on brain development were also influenced by caregiving and stressful life events.
Study examines expedited FDA drug approvals, safety questions remain
A study examined expedited FDA drug approvals, finding that new drugs approved under accelerated review took a median of 5.1 years to get marketing approval compared to 7.5 years for standard-reviewed drugs. Fewer patients were studied in these expedited reviews, raising concerns over the safety and efficacy of these medications.
Reproductive biologists move in vitro fertilization knowledge forward
Researchers from UMass Amherst and international partners report advances in understanding sperm capacitation, a crucial step in IVF. By bypassing early problems, they may improve IVF success rates and potentially lead to a male contraceptive.
The cyber-centipede: From Linnaeus to big data
A new collaboration describes a new centipede species using a holistic approach combining 3D imaging, DNA barcoding, transcriptomic profiles, and video of the living specimen. The 'cyber-type' allows for global access to the specimen's data, enabling faster conservation efforts.
Melting Arctic sea ice could increase summer rainfall in northwest Europe suggests new study
A new study suggests that melting Arctic sea ice causes a shift in the jet stream, leading to increased rain in northwest Europe during summers. The research also finds that Mediterranean regions will receive less rain, with potential effects on weather patterns as far as North America.
UCSB researcher documents the enduring contaminant legacy of the California gold rush
A new study by UCSB researcher Michael Singer shows that sediment-absorbed mercury is being transported from the Sierra Nevada mountains to the Central Valley lowlands through major floods. This process poses a huge risk to the region's ecosystems and human population, as mercury-laden sediment is carried into ecologically sensitive re...