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Science News for June 18, 2014


Modeling how neurons work together

Researchers developed a novel theory of how neurons work together during complex movements, revealing a balance between excitatory and inhibitory signals. The new model can accurately reproduce multidimensional movement patterns and may aid in the understanding of brain dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNeuron·DateJun 18, 2014

New manufacturing methods needed for 'soft' machines, robots

Researchers have developed a technique to produce soft machines made of elastic materials and liquid metals using a custom-built 3D printer. The technique enables the creation of strain gauges that can detect high strains and deform with almost any material, making it suitable for wearable technology and sensory skin.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJun 18, 2014

Springer launches comprehensive open access journal

The new journal, Research in the Mathematical Sciences, covers applied math, pure math, and theoretical computer science. It aims to publish high-quality original articles and seminal papers on emerging areas of mathematical research.

SourceSpringer·JournalResearch in the Mathematical Sciences·DateJun 18, 2014

Stem pipeline problems to aid STEM diversity

The article highlights the persistent issues with STEM pipeline diversity, citing data showing that underrepresented minority students are less likely to graduate and enter STEM careers. Researchers Andrew G. Campbell and Stacy-Ann Allen-Ramdial propose four ideas to improve the pipeline, including aligning culture and climate, partner...

SourceBrown University·JournalBioScience·DateJun 18, 2014

Unintended danger from antidepressant warnings

A study by Harvard Medical School found that antidepressant prescriptions for young people dropped after FDA warnings, leading to a relative increase in suicide attempts. The researchers suggest that better communication between the FDA, media, and physicians is needed to ensure patients receive appropriate treatment.

Combatting cuckoos

Researchers at Harvard University discovered that many birds targeted by the Common Cuckoo have evolved recognizable egg patterns to distinguish their own eggs from those laid by cuckoo cheats. These signatures provide a strong defense against cuckoo mimicry, helping host birds reject foreign eggs and protect their broods.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 18, 2014

Making smartphones smarter with see-through sensors

Researchers have developed laser-written light-guiding systems for efficient commercial use. The technology allows embedding sensors, including temperature and biometric sensors, into Gorilla Glass to create new real estate in phones. This could enable secure transactions using infrared light and more compact devices.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateJun 18, 2014

New research can improve heart health

Researchers found that people with a specific gene variation have lower blood lipids and a reduced risk of arteriosclerosis. The study, based on two large population studies, suggests that inhibiting apolipoprotein C3 could be an effective target for new drugs to prevent cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 18, 2014

Nanoparticles from dietary supplement drinks likely to reach environment, say scientists

Researchers tested the effects of commercial drinks containing nanoparticles on human intestinal cells, finding that they can interfere with digestion and potentially lead to poor digestion or diarrhea. The study suggests that nanomaterials from these products may be making their way into surface water, where they could harm aquatic life.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateJun 18, 2014

Fish-eating spiders discovered around the world

Research reveals eight spider families preying on fish worldwide, with diverse species adapting to aquatic environments to catch fish even larger than themselves. Semi-aquatic spiders possess powerful neurotoxins and enzymes to kill and digest their prey.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 18, 2014

'Smart glass' micro-iris for smartphone cameras

Researchers developed a smart glass micro-iris that controls light entry with minimal power consumption, overcoming traditional mechanical blade limitations in camera-integrated devices. The device demonstrates improved depth of focus and optical contrast, paving the way for next-generation smartphone cameras.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalJournal of Optics·DateJun 18, 2014

Study shows cost-effectiveness of smoking cessation counseling during hospitalization

Researchers found that providing in-hospital counseling and post-care support can lead to significant health system savings while increasing the number of quitters. The Ottawa Model for Smoking Cessation (OMSC) was shown to be a cost-effective intervention, generating benefits in terms of reduced hospital readmissions and deaths.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa Heart Institute·JournalTobacco Control·DateJun 18, 2014

Scientists about sequencing data: We drown in data but thirst for knowledge

Despite vast genomic data, researchers from the University of Southern Denmark found that DNA sequencing alone cannot distinguish between pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacteria. The team suggests that proteins provide more valuable knowledge than DNA in understanding bacterial behavior and disease-causing properties. This raises questi...

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalBriefings in Functional Genomics·DateJun 18, 2014

Many doctors concerned about physician involvement in concealed-weapon permit process

A new survey of North Carolina doctors reveals concerns over the increasing number of requests to assess patients' competency for concealed weapons permits. Many physicians feel uncertain about their ability to make such assessments, leading to worries about the doctor-patient relationship and potential ethical consequences.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 18, 2014

Spanish slug -- Busting an invasion myth

Research reveals that Spanish slugs (Arion lusitanicus) are not native to Spain but originated in Central Europe, contradicting long-held assumptions. The findings highlight the need for reevaluation of EU regulations on invasive species and encourage a more nuanced approach to labeling non-native species.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateJun 18, 2014

No link found between soy food and endometrial cancer risk, say researchers

Researchers analyzed data from over 112 women diagnosed with endometrial cancer, finding no association between soy food or isoflavone intake and the risk of endometrial cancer. The study's findings contradict previous research suggesting potential protective properties of soy foods against endometrial cancer.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology·DateJun 18, 2014

Innovative technologies in rural areas improve agriculture, health care

This special issue of Technology and Innovation explores the benefits of tech transfer to universities and its impact on rural regions. Key findings include the use of information technology in rural health care organizations and precision agriculture in the Northern Great Plains, which improves crop management and reduces waste.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalJournal of Technology and Innovation·DateJun 18, 2014

Study examines how brain 'reboots' itself to consciousness after anesthesia

A new study by Dr. Andrew Hudson and colleagues provides clues about the brain's processes used to navigate from unconsciousness back to consciousness after anesthesia. The researchers found that the brain activity occurred in discrete clumps, or clusters, and that certain patterns consistently occurred in anesthetized rodents.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 18, 2014

Childhood maltreatment associated with cerebral grey matter abnormalities

A new study reveals that childhood maltreatment is associated with cerebral grey matter abnormalities, leading to lasting changes in brain structure. The research found significant deficits in late-developing brain regions, indicating a potential link between adverse childhood experiences and long-term cognitive and emotional deficits.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateJun 18, 2014