Using the brain to forecast decisions
Researchers used neural recordings to predict when a rat would give up waiting for a delayed tone. The findings suggest that individual brain cells cast votes for actions, but the outcome is not predetermined.
Science News Archive 2014 - Page 97
Browse by Month - 2014
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Protein that causes frontotemporal dementia also implicated in Alzheimer's disease
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes found that progranulin deficiency can increase amyloid-beta plaque formation, neuroinflammation, and cognitive dysfunction in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Increasing progranulin levels via gene therapy effectively prevented these abnormalities and protected against cell death.
Smart, eco-friendly new battery to solve problems
Researchers at Uppsala University have developed a new battery concept using renewable biomaterials from alfalfa and pine resin, which can be recycled with low energy input and non-hazardous chemicals. The battery proved capable of delivering up to 99% of the energy output from a spent battery.
Many patients lack information about the use of targeted therapies, oncologists say
A survey of 895 doctors in Europe, South America, and Asia revealed that over three-quarters of oncology specialists believe their patients are not well-informed about treatment options. The majority (90%) use biomarker testing to choose treatments, but many identify cost or lack of reimbursement as key barriers.
Is expressive suppression effective in reducing negative emotion?
A recent study found that expressive suppression is effective in reducing negative emotion in Chinese culture, even faster than cognitive reappraisal. The study used high temporal-resolution Event-Related Potentials and a rigorous experimental design to compare the effectiveness of both techniques.
More children admitted to intensive care but with lower staffing ratios
A 10-year report by PICANet found a 15% increase in child admissions to intensive care units in England and Wales. However, despite increased staff numbers, the ratio of staff to beds remains lower, raising concerns about nurse availability for complex cases.
Pertuzumab adds 16 months survival benefit to trastuzumab and chemo treatment for HER2-positive breast cancer
The CLEOPATRA study demonstrated a significant survival benefit of 15.7 months with the combination therapy, outperforming previous studies. The long-term safety profile and cardiac safety were also maintained.
Revolutionary hamstring tester will keep more players on the field
Researchers developed a portable device to measure eccentric hamstring strength, finding that higher levels of strength can dramatically reduce hamstring injury risk. The study's results could have significant implications for football codes, with potential benefits for players and teams.
SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateSep 28, 2014
IMPRESS trial data on continuing tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy after resistance development in lung cancer reported
The IMPRESS trial found that continued gefitinib therapy after resistance development in lung cancer did not improve progression-free survival. Chemotherapy alone remains the standard treatment for patients with EGFR mutation-positive non-small cell lung cancer.
Researchers identify early sign of pancreatic cancer
A team of scientists identified a rise in branched-chain amino acids as an early indicator of pancreatic cancer development, occurring years before symptoms appear. The breakthrough discovery has the potential to spur progress in detecting and treating the disease.
Under-representation of women in oncology leadership positions
A survey of 80 female Greek oncologists found that women are under-represented in leadership positions, with team leaders being men in 82% of cases. The European Society for Medical Oncology launches a new initiative to promote the exchange of ideas among female oncologists and support women with cancer.
Adding cediranib to chemo improves progression-free survival for meta or recurrent cervical cancer
Adding cediranib to standard chemotherapy improves tumour shrinkage and adds a modest improvement in progression-free survival for patients with relapsed or metastatic cervical cancer. The study, published in Annals of Oncology, shows greater tumour shrinkage and increased median progression-free survival compared to chemotherapy alone.
Cancer during pregnancy: Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are safe for babies, studies show
Children exposed to chemotherapy or radiotherapy in utero suffer no negative impacts on mental or cardiac development, according to international studies presented at ESMO 2014. These findings confirm that chemotherapy and radiotherapy during pregnancy do not endanger the fetus and its subsequent development.
Anamorelin improve appetite and body mass in patients with cancer anorexia-cachexia
The phase III trials indicate that anamorelin is safe and well-tolerated in treating symptoms of advanced non-small cell lung cancer anorexia-cachexia. Patients experienced improvements in lean body mass, body weight, and patient symptoms/concerns regarding appetite over 12 weeks.
French studies measure benefits of colorectal cancer screening
Biennial colorectal cancer screening in France's Cote-D'Or region increased the rate of diagnosis of high-risk pre-cancerous adenomas by 89%. The study also found that fecal occult blood testing may be more efficient than colonoscopy for high-risk patients.
Afatinib improves progression-free survival in head and neck cancer
A phase III trial demonstrated that afatinib significantly improved progression-free survival compared to methotrexate in patients with recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. The study showed a 20% reduction in risk of progression or death, with patients experiencing less pain over time.
Docetaxel or pemetrexed with cisplatin achieve comparable outcomes in non-squamous Lu Ca
A direct comparison of docetaxel and pemetrexed with cisplatin shows similar progression-free survival rates, but docetaxel is associated with more frequent adverse events. The study included 149 patients with non-squamous lung cancer and found that the pemetrexed combination was less toxic.
Evolutionary biology: It's not just for textbooks anymore
A new study published in Science Express reviews progress in addressing challenges using evolutionary histories and rapid adaptation approaches. The research highlights the urgent need for better implementation of these strategies to combat escalating resistance to antibiotics and pesticides.
Customising chemotherapy in Lu Ca: New Ph II data reported in 2 LB studies
A Korean study showed that patients with low levels of thymidylate synthase in their lung tumors experienced greater benefits from treatment with pemetrexed and cisplatin. The enzyme's expression level can also serve as a prognostic biomarker for overall survival.
Rolapitant reduces nausea and vomiting in Phase III trial
A phase III trial showed that Rolapitant significantly reduced nausea and vomiting in patients receiving cisplatin-based chemotherapy. The study found that 72.7% of patients experienced complete response, with improved quality of life outcomes.
Crizotinib treatment effective against ROS1-positive lung cancer
Researchers report that crizotinib effectively halted tumor growth in 36 of 50 study participants and suppressed it in another 9. The study confirmed that ROS1 is a viable therapeutic target for ROS1-positive lung cancer patients.
Countries must work together to stop organ traffickers, says researcher
A combination of factors makes it difficult to pinpoint the extent of organ trafficking worldwide. Researchers identify five key reasons for this lack of clarity, including a reluctance by organ donors to speak out and inconsistent laws across countries.
New UT Dallas technology may lead to prolonged power in mobile devices
Researchers from UT Dallas have created a new technology that can extend the power life of wearable computers and smartphones. The technology uses a single electron to control energy consumption inside transistors, reducing operating voltage and increasing signal strength.
New molecule found in space connotes life origins
Astronomers at Cornell University have detected an unusual carbon-based molecule, isopropyl cyanide, with a branched structure in a giant gas cloud 27,000 light years away. The discovery suggests that complex molecules needed for life may originate in interstellar space.
More than 70 percent of young oncologists in Europe suffer symptoms of burnout
A survey of 595 young oncologists found that 71% are at risk of developing burnout, a syndrome characterized by emotional exhaustion and depersonalization. The study highlights the need for action to address burnout across all levels, from universities to professional societies.
Tooth buried in bone shows prehistoric predators tangled across land, sea
Paleontologists discover a tooth embedded in a rauisuchid's bone, showing phytosaurs targeted both aquatic and terrestrial prey. The find provides evidence for the interaction between these two top predators on land and sea, forcing a reevaluation of ancient ecosystems.
NSF grants $1 million to MU to expand supercomputer equipment and expertise
The National Science Foundation has awarded $1 million in two grants to the University of Missouri to install a supercomputer enabling data-intensive research and education at MU. The new cyberinfrastructure (CI) engineer will collaborate with researchers to develop new tools and provide expertise for efficient data analysis.
Disease without borders
Researchers present a bioregional guide that combines place-based city planning and ecosystem management to address wide-ranging human health challenges along the US-Mexico border. The approach aims to promote healthy placemaking, taking into account environmental exposures, stress, diet, urban design, and behavior.
Scientists discover new poison dart frog species in Donoso, Panama
A new poison dart frog species, Andinobates geminisae, has been discovered in Donoso, Panama. Genetic sequencing confirms it is a distinct species from another known poison dart frog, Oophaga pumilio.
'Multi-spectra glasses' for scanning electron microscopy
A new spectrometer using reflection zone plate optics resolves the spectral range of lighter elements, such as lithium and oxygen, which cannot be detected by traditional energy dispersive spectrometers. This technology has significant implications for research on energy-related materials and life sciences.
Poor fish harvests more frequent now off California coast
A study by University of South Carolina researchers found that natural processes can cause dramatic year-to-year drops in fish populations. The team used tree rings to extrapolate back in time nearly 600 years and found that low winter upwelling, which favors fish growth, has increased recently, sparking concerns about climate change.
Preference for built-up habitats could explain rapid spread of the tree bumblebee in UK
A new study reveals that the Tree Bumblebee prefers built-up areas and is associated with human habitation. The research found that these areas form a large part of their habitat use, setting them apart from other common British bumblebee species.
Progress in materials science
Researchers have published a detailed appraisal of Friction Stir Welding (FSW), a complex welding technique that can join difficult-to-weld materials. The study concludes that FSW has the potential to be increasingly valuable in modern industry, but scientific understanding is still at an early stage.
Strategy to reduce side effects in modern cancer therapy
Researchers developed a novel strategy to restrict tyrosine kinase inhibitors' activity to malignant tumour cells, minimizing damage to healthy tissue. The approach uses cobalt(III) compounds that are activated selectively in tumours under low-oxygen conditions.
Severe periodontitis: Sixth most prevalent health condition in the world
Severe periodontitis is the sixth most prevalent health condition in the world, affecting over 743 million people worldwide. The global age-standardized prevalence of severe periodontitis remained static at 11.2% between 1990 and 2010.
SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateSep 26, 2014
Antibacterial resistance a cause for major concern according to world leading cystic fibrosis expert
A leading expert on respiratory medicine warns of the growing concern of antibacterial resistance in treating cystic fibrosis patients. The expert recommends further research and investigation into developing new compounds that can work against bacteria to make current antibiotics more effective.
Penn team studies nanocrystals by passing them through tiny pores
A team of University of Pennsylvania researchers developed a technique to measure the electrical properties of nanoscale structures by passing them through tiny pores. By analyzing changes in ionic current, they found new ways to apply nanopore translocation to analyze objects at the smallest scale.
Experts call for widening the debate on climate change
Researchers at the University of Manchester argue that environmental scientists should provide more practical solutions to climate change, but recognize the need for a broader skill-set. They suggest integrating social science and humanities to enrich public debates about responding to environmental change.
UB study: COPD patients breathe easier with Lung Flute
A new study by University at Buffalo confirms that COPD patients breathe easier and report improved health status when using the Lung Flute, a hand-held respiratory device. The six-month study shows significant improvements in symptoms and quality of life.
Geisel researchers contribute to study of trained immunity
Researchers at The Geisel School of Medicine discover that changes in metabolism, mediated by the HIF1α pathway, are critical for trained immunity. This finding has potential implications for preventing and treating inflammatory diseases and enhancing vaccine efficacy.
Protein 'map' could lead to potent new cancer drugs
Researchers at Imperial College London have created a 'global map' of proteins modified by the disease-causing enzyme N-myristoyltransferase (NMT), identifying over 100 previously unknown substrates. The study holds promise for new cancer treatments, with a potent drug-like molecule already identified to block NMT's activity.
Cardiology leaders call for global prevention of heart disease, stroke
The World Heart Federation's Global Cardiovascular Disease Taskforce urges the United Nations to support efforts to curb non-communicable diseases like heart disease and stroke. The task force estimates that cardiovascular disease will account for $7 trillion of the economic burden from 2011-2025.
SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateSep 26, 2014
Children with autism are more sedentary than their peers, new OSU study shows
A new OSU study found that children with autism are more sedentary than their typically-developing peers, averaging 50 minutes less a day of moderate physical activity and 70 minutes more each day sitting. Despite this, they perform similarly on fitness assessments such as body mass index, aerobic fitness levels, and flexibility.
Conflictive animations support the development of programming skills
A recent study at the University of Eastern Finland developed a tool called Jeliot ConAn that uses conflictive animations to teach computer programming. The tool's intentional errors engage students in activities to find and signal errors, improving their critical thinking skills.
SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalIEEE Transactions on Learning Technologies·DateSep 26, 2014
Researchers show irradiation plus transplantation effective for treating HIV/AIDS
A new study published in PLOS Pathogens shows that an irradiation plus transplantation combination approach can treat or even possibly cure HIV/AIDS in nonhuman primates. The treatment eliminated most of the animals' CD4-T cells, allowing their own virus-free hematopoietic stem cells to regenerate blood and immune cells.
Underwater robot for port security
The new underwater robot is designed to inspect ships for false hulls and propeller shafts that smugglers use to hide contraband. With its unique propulsion mechanism and ability to perform ultrasound scans without surface contact, the robot could revolutionize port security.
Sensitive youngsters
A long-term laboratory experiment showed that young sea stars grow more slowly and eat less in acidic conditions, even after a prolonged acclimation period. The study suggests that young sea stars may not adapt to the effects of ocean acidification, potentially affecting entire ecosystems.
SourceHelmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR)·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·DateSep 26, 2014
NASA sees Tropical Storm Kammuri's spiral bands of soaking thunderstorms
The TRMM satellite identified a strong band of thunderstorms with heavy rainfall northwest of Tropical Storm Kammuri's center, while NASA's Aqua satellite captured infrared data on the entire storm. Cloud top temperatures exceeded -63F/-53C, indicating potential for heavy rainfall.
How plankton gets jet lagged
Researchers found that the hormone melatonin governs the nightly migration of a plankton species and may have evolved early in animal history. The study suggests that melatonin's role in controlling daily rhythms could be linked to the evolution of human sleep patterns.
Agricultural fires blaze in Borneo
Agricultural fires in Borneo clear land for palm oil plantations, releasing huge amounts of smoke and contributing to climate change. The fires can also cause severe respiratory problems due to the presence of particulate matter and toxic chemicals.
Skin pigment renders sun's UV radiation harmless using projectiles
Researchers discovered that skin pigment eumelanin converts harmful UV radiation into heat through a rapid chemical reaction. This process has almost 100% efficiency and prevents UV energy from causing harm, making the body more resistant to sun damage.
Forming better database queries at heart of NSF research project
A UT Arlington computer scientist is leading a research project to improve database queries and decision-making. The project, worth $1.2 million, aims to reveal how queries affect the robustness and objectivity of decisions.
NASA identifies cold cloud tops in Tropical Storm Rachel
Tropical Storm Rachel is strengthening with colder cloud tops and increased thunderstorm heights, indicating reduced wind shear, NASA's Aqua satellite reveals. The storm is expected to go through a short period of strengthening before weakening again, primarily driven by changes in wind patterns.
Can cartoons be used to teach machines to understand the visual world?
Virginia Tech researcher Devi Parikh aims to build intelligent machines that can understand the visual world from images and videos. She proposes teaching computers through visual abstractions, such as cartoons, which she believes are easier to illustrate than complex concepts.
Policies of NIH, other funders, have improved data-sharing by life-science investigators
A survey of 3,000 US researchers found that NIH policies have increased data sharing, with genetics researchers ranking it highest. However, issues such as incomplete material transfer agreements and inadequate formal sanctions remain.
Exploring the connection between empathy, neurohormones and aggression
Researchers explored connection between empathy, neurohormones and aggression. Empathy can motivate aggression on behalf of vulnerable others, even without provocation. Neurohormone gene variants, such as vasopressin and oxytocin, interact to predict aggression in these situations.
SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateSep 26, 2014
Scanning babies' fingerprints could save lives
Researchers are developing a fingerprint-based recognition method to track vaccination schedules for infants and toddlers, increasing immunization coverage in developing countries. Fingerprints can accurately record immunizations, overcoming issues with lost or destroyed paper documents.
Morphed images of Hollywood celebrities reveal how neurons make up your mind
A study using morphed images of celebrities found that individual neurons react to subjective perception rather than visual stimuli. This suggests that neurons play a key role in the formation of memory by encoding our thoughts and images.
Many patients excluded from clinical trials due to prior cancer, UTSW study finds
A substantial proportion of potential subjects are reflexively excluded from lung cancer clinical trials due to prior cancer. The exclusion criterion was applied in more than two-thirds of trials in which survival was not the primary endpoint, resulting in up to 18% exclusion rate.
SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 26, 2014
Study identifies unexpected clue to peripheral neuropathies
Researchers discovered that disrupting a tumor suppressor gene disrupts the formation of the protective insulating sheath on peripheral nerves, leading to muscle wasting and neuropathy. The study suggests that normal molecular function of Lkb1 is essential for proper myelination.