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Science News Archive March 2014 - Page 14


Page 14 of 34

Inhibition of oral biofilm and cell-cell communication using natural-products derivatives

Researchers have identified six natural-products derivatives that can inhibit oral biofilm formation and quorum sensing in three indigenous oral Gram-positive bacteria. These compounds, structurally similar to S-ribosyl homocysteine, reduce bioluminescence in a Vibrio harveyi QS reporter, indicating inhibition of AI-2 based QS.

Genes play key role in parenting

A study by Michigan State University psychologists finds that genes account for 23-40% of parental warmth, control, and negativity towards children. Environmental factors also play a significant role in shaping parenting behavior, highlighting the complexity of this dynamic.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalPsychological Bulletin·DateMar 20, 2014

Catching the early spread of breast cancer

Researchers have developed a new technology that uses 'nano-flares' to detect metastatic breast cancer cells in blood samples, which could lead to earlier diagnosis and improved treatment options. The technology has shown promising results in animal tests and is currently being experimented with human samples.

Gut bacteria can cause life-threatening infections in preterm babies

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine found three types of potentially harmful gut microbes in preterm babies who developed late-onset sepsis: E. coli, group B strep, and S. marcescens. These findings suggest new strategies to detect and prevent severe bloodstream infections in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateMar 19, 2014

New, noninvasive, stool-based colorectal cancer screening test

A new stool-based screening test, Cologuard, detected 92% of colorectal cancer and 42% of advanced pre-cancerous lesions, outperforming a commercial occult blood fecal immunochemical test. The non-invasive test allows patients to collect samples at home, increasing the potential for higher cancer screening rates.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 19, 2014

Understanding binge eating and obesity

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a novel method to objectively measure a person's desire to eat, which could lead to more effective anti-obesity treatments. The method uses brain activity tracking and hand-grip intensity to assess motivation for food rewards, providing a more accurate reflection of true hunger.

SourceThe Journal of Visualized Experiments·JournalJournal of Visualized Experiments·DateMar 19, 2014

Social groups alleviate depression

Patients who joined a social group and developed a stronger connection with its members experienced reduced symptoms of depression. The study suggests that the 'group' aspect of social interaction is critical in alleviating depression.

SourceCIFAR·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·DateMar 19, 2014

Football displays fractal dynamics

Researchers found fractal nature in football dynamics, with ball and player positions exhibiting self-similarity. The study suggests the superiority of one team persists for only 30 seconds before changing hands.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateMar 19, 2014

Patients enjoy good quality of life 10 years after esophagectomy and gastric pull-up

A new study from the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine found that long-term survivors of esophagectomy with gastric pull-up can enjoy a satisfying meal and good quality of life. The study concluded that pessimism about the long-term quality of life after esophagectomy is unwarranted.

SourceAmerican Association for Thoracic Surgery·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·DateMar 19, 2014

Improved pavement markings can save lives

A Concordia University study found that snowplows are the main culprit in erasing roadway markings, which can lead to traffic accidents. To address this issue, researchers suggest using more expensive and durable epoxy paint, which could save lives in the long run.

SourceConcordia University·JournalStructure and Infrastructure Engineering·DateMar 19, 2014

Ottawa researchers find new pathway connected to type 2 diabetes

Researchers at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute found a new cellular pathway that helps keep blood sugar levels low in obese or pre-diabetic people, which may prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes. The discovery could lead to new targets for improving beta cell functionality and treating type 2 diabetes.