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Science News Archive July 2014 - Page 4


Page 4 of 34

New malaria vaccine candidates identified

Researchers discovered new vaccine targets that could help combat malaria by identifying previously untested antigens and gaining insights into antigen combination. A group of infected children was followed over six months to identify combinations of antibodies providing up to 100% protection against clinical episodes.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJul 30, 2014

Problem drinking in midlife doubles chance of memory problems in later life

A study published in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry indicates that middle-aged adults with a history of problem drinking are more than twice as likely to suffer from severe memory impairment in later life. The research highlights the link between harmful patterns of alcohol consumption and problems with memory, which may ...

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAmerican Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateJul 29, 2014

Implanting 125I seeds into rat DRG for neuropathic pain: Only neuronal microdamage occurs

The study implanted 125I seeds into rat dorsal root ganglia to provide relief for neuropathic pain. Results showed elevated mechanical pain threshold without influencing motor functions, suggesting neuronal microdamage as the primary mechanism. The findings have potential implications for developing novel pain management therapies.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateJul 29, 2014

Research may explain how foremost anticancer 'guardian' protein learned to switch sides

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have discovered a new function of the body's most important tumor-suppressing protein, p53. A previously unknown variant of p53 called p53-psi reduces cell adhesion and promotes metastatic potential by interacting with cyclophillin D and generating reactive oxygen species.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 29, 2014

Differential gene expression in proximal and distal nerve segments after sciatic nerve injury

Researchers identified differential gene expression in proximal and distal nerve segments of rats with sciatic nerve injury, revealing changes in cell differentiation, cytokinesis, and immune response. The study provides insights into Wallerian degeneration and offers a platform for studying nerve injury and repair.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateJul 29, 2014

Urbanization of rural Africa associated with increased risk of heart disease and diabetes

A new study found that urbanization in rural sub-Saharan Africa is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Living in more urban villages was linked to poorer lifestyle choices, such as physical inactivity and heavy drinking, despite the benefits of access to education, healthcare, and improved sanitation.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJul 29, 2014

A new brain-based marker of stress susceptibility

Scientists have identified a specific electrical pattern in the brains of genetically identical mice that predicts how well individual animals will fare in stressful situations. This finding may help prevent mental illnesses linked with stress, such as post-traumatic stress disorder and depression.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 29, 2014

New network unites university health care research

Four major health institutions have partnered to create a Clinical Data Research Network, leveraging PCORI's $7 million funding. The network will study patient outcomes for obesity, atrial fibrillation and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, expanding research capabilities and collaboration opportunities.

Tough foam from tiny sheets

Researchers at Rice University have developed a tough and ultralight foam using atomic-scale materials, with properties including high strain handling and bounce-back ability. The foam can be tailored to any size and shape, and its lightweight density is 400 times less than graphite.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 29, 2014

Underwater elephants

A recent study published in Conservation Biology found that the bumphead parrotfish, a major coral predator, has both positive and negative effects on reefs. The fish helps reduce algae abundance and disperse small coral fragments, but also consumes coral and reduces its diversity.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalConservation Biology·DateJul 29, 2014

Mortality rates increase due to extreme heat and cold

A study by Helmholtz Munich found that extreme heat and cold increase mortality rates, particularly among the elderly with pre-existing medical conditions. The researchers observed a significant rise in cardiovascular events and stroke during hot temperatures and up to two weeks after cold weather.

Scientists caution against exploitation of deep ocean

The deep sea provides numerous benefits to society, including acting as a greenhouse gas sink, regenerating nutrients, and fueling the marine food web. However, rapid exploitation of its resources poses significant threats to its habitat and global impact, necessitating a global effort to protect and manage these vast habitats.

SourceOregon State University·JournalBiogeosciences·DateJul 29, 2014

The quantum Cheshire cat

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology demonstrate a new quantum paradox where neutrons can be separated from their properties, allowing for more precise measurements. This 'Quantum Cheshire Cat' phenomenon shows that particles can exist in multiple states at once, making it ideal for applications requiring high precision.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 29, 2014

Local education politics 'far from dead'

A new study by Michigan State University finds that Teach for America alumni candidates prioritize both local and national issues in their school board campaigns. The research suggests that supporting TFA alumni to run for local offices is an effective way to advance the organization's agenda.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEducation Policy Analysis Archives·DateJul 29, 2014

Weighing the Milky Way

An international team of researchers devises precise method for calculating galaxy masses using gravity and expansion data. The new study shows the Milky Way has only half the mass of its neighbor Andromeda.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 29, 2014