Marathon runners' times develop in a U shape
Researchers found that marathon running times are U-shaped, peaking in the mid-20s to early 30s before decreasing. The study analyzed over 45,000 runners' data, revealing a sharp decline after age 55.
Science News for May 28, 2014
Taking prescribed anti-clotting drug may help save stent patients' lives
A new study found that delaying anti-clotting medication after a coronary artery stent can increase the risk of heart attack and death. Filling prescriptions promptly within days of hospital discharge may help prevent these complications.
International research group documents unique songbird diversity of the Eastern Himalayas
Researchers from India, US, Germany, and Sweden study songbirds in the Himalayas, finding significant genetic differences between closely related species. The team concludes that the region's saturated habitats hindered new species evolution.
NUS researchers discover unusual parenting behavior by a Southeast Asian treefrog
A study by NUS researchers found that the Chiromantis hansenae treefrog exhibits unusual parental care behavior to increase offspring survival. This behavior is crucial for preventing egg desiccation and buffering environmental pressures.
Survival after trauma related to race, age
A study of over 1 million trauma patients found that younger white patients had better outcomes than younger black patients, while older black patients fared better than similarly injured older white patients. This paradoxical finding may lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms causing disparities in trauma outcomes.
In Africa, STI testing could boost HIV prevention
A new study suggests that testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) when testing for HIV can improve HIV prevention efforts in South Africa and the broader region. The study found that patients with HIV were more likely to contract STIs before starting treatment, highlighting the importance of simultaneous STI detection and tr...
Better catalysts for the petrochemical industry
Researchers from ETH Zurich have identified a new class of zeolite catalysts that can withstand the formation of hydrocarbon deposits, which clog pores and block active sites. The key to their improved performance lies in the internal structure of the catalysts, with well-connected nano-sized channels and numerous openings.
New research shows memory is a dynamic and interactive process
Recent studies have shown that memory is composed of two distinct forms: episodic memory, dependent on the hippocampus, and semantic memory, reliant on the neocortex. The 'multiple trace/transformation theory' proposes that memories are re-encoded with each retrieval, leading to a transformation from context-rich to general memory.
Microalgae capable of assimilating the NH3 resulting from the management of agrifood waste
Researchers have confirmed that Chlamydomonas acidophila microalgae can grow in agri-food waste effluent and assimilate ammonium, preventing air pollution. The resulting biomass can be used as animal feed, compost or fertilizer, and is a rich source of lutein, a powerful antioxidant.
NSF grant funds UCSC chemists developing alternatives to phthalate plasticizers
University of California - Santa Cruz chemist Rebecca Braslau has developed a new approach to create safe and affordable alternatives to widely used phthalates. Her research aims to replace phthalates in consumer products, which have been linked to reproductive and developmental abnormalities.
Study examines risk factors for sagging eyelids
A study of North European and twin populations found sagging eyelids to be more common among older adults and those with certain physical characteristics. The study also suggests a possible link between current smoking and sagging eyelids.
The Lancet: Most comprehensive global study to date shows obesity rates climbing worldwide
The study reveals a staggering 28% increase in adult obesity rates and a 47% rise in childhood obesity globally. The findings highlight the need for urgent action to reverse this trend, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Experimental trial represents promising step toward universal antidote for snakebite
Researchers have tested a nasally administered antiparalytic drug, neostigmine, on mice injected with high doses of Indian cobra venom and found that 10 out of 15 mice survived treatment within 10 minutes. The study's results support the idea that fast and accessible treatment can increase survival rates in snakebite victims.
Crow or raven? New birdsnap app can help!
The new Birdsnap app, developed by Columbia Engineering researchers, can identify 500 common North American bird species using computer vision and machine learning techniques. It offers users various ways to organize species and even annotates images with distinctive parts for easy identification.
MRI catches breast cancer early in at-risk survivors of childhood Hodgkin lymphoma
A large clinical study found that MRI detected invasive breast tumours in female survivors of childhood Hodgkin lymphoma at very early stages. The study highlights the need for breast MRI screening from age 25 or eight years after chest radiation, as recommended by established guidelines.
Variety in diet can hamper microbial diversity in the gut
Researchers found that fish with a diverse diet had less bacterial diversity in their guts than those with a specialized diet. This discovery could impact the use of probiotics and diet in treating diseases associated with gut bacteria.
Filling in the gaps on the protein map
Researchers from TUM have created an almost complete inventory of the human proteome by cataloging over 18,000 proteins. The study reveals unique protein profiles for every organ, which are essential for its function, and identifies hundreds of new protein fragments with novel biological properties.
Cocktail party neuroscience: Making sense of voices in a crowd
Dr. Ingrid Johnsrude's research reveals that brain regions beyond primary auditory cortex play a crucial role in understanding speech, especially in noisy environments. The study also highlights the critical role of attention and prior knowledge in facilitating comprehension.
Flame retardant exposure linked to lower IQs -- study
A new study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found a significant link between prenatal exposure to flame retardants and lower IQs in five-year-old children. The researchers discovered that elevated levels of PBDE concentrations were associated with a 4.5 IQ decrement, comparable to environmental lead exposure.
T cell repertoire changes predictive of anti-CTLA-4 cancer immunotherapy outcome revealed
A study using Sequenta's LymphoSIGHT platform reveals that patients with longer survival have lower numbers of T cell clones that decrease in frequency after treatment. This association holds for both prostate cancer and melanoma patients, suggesting that immune repertoire sequencing could predict clinical benefit of immunotherapies.
Women's contraceptive use influenced by contraception education and moral attitudes
A study found that comprehensive sex education increases women's use of contraceptives, while moral objections reduce it. The research highlights the importance of access to accurate contraceptive information in promoting better health outcomes for mothers and children.
3,000 rice genome sequences made publicly available on World Hunger Day
The 3000 Rice Genomes Project provides a massive rice genomic sequence resource for worldwide use, quadrupling the current amount of publicly available rice sequence data. This will aid in improving crop yield, reducing environmental impact, and developing food crops suitable for stressed environments.
NASA's TRMM and Aqua satellites peer into Tropical Storm Amanda
NASA's TRMM satellite measured heavy rainfall at a rate of over 147 mm/h in the northwestern side of Hurricane Amanda's eye wall. The storm weakened to a tropical storm with maximum sustained winds near 65 mph.
A cure for dry eye could be a blink away
Researchers studied the basic motion of tear film traversing the eye to develop a potential cure for dry eye. The simulation found that blinking is necessary to stop the thinning of the tear film, and flooding the eye with liquid does not relieve the issue.
Mount Sinai researchers lead committee to define the clinical course of multiple sclerosis
Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital have re-examined multiple sclerosis (MS) clinical course descriptions to provide a framework for both clinical research and ongoing clinical care. The proposed 2013 revisions include improved clinical descriptive terminology, MRI imaging, and analysis of fluid biomarkers.
Technology marketers should take consumer life-cycle into account: New Rotman study
A new Rotman study found that marketing strategies should consider the consumer life-cycle when targeting technology adoption. The research reveals that older consumers may face limited future benefits, but can be encouraged to adopt new technologies through targeted incentives.
Black trauma patients 65 and older more likely to survive than white counterparts
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that older black trauma patients are 20% less likely to die from their injuries compared to white patients. This counterintuitive finding suggests that factors such as better access to healthcare and lower rates of penetrating trauma may contribute to the difference in survival rates.
Fish more inclined to crash than bees
New research reveals that zebra fish use optic flow but steer towards stronger flows instead of away from them. This may be due to the turbid underwater environment where visibility is limited.
Sneaky bacteria change key protein's shape to escape detection
Researchers found that Neisseria meningitidis and gonorrhoeae bacteria can change the structure of their outer proteins to evade the immune system. This discovery could lead to new treatments for bacterial diseases such as meningitis and gonorrhea.
Tiny mutation triggers drug resistance for patients with one type of leukemia
Researchers identified a tiny mutation in BTK as the cause of drug resistance to ibrutinib in CLL patients, which destabilizes binding and allows leukemic cells to multiply freely. The finding could guide development of new agents to treat drug-resistant disease.
Melting Arctic opens new passages for invasive species
The opening of new Arctic shipping routes poses significant risks to the north Atlantic and north Pacific coasts from invasive species. Scientists warn that unchecked commercial shipping could drastically alter the exchange of invasive species across the region.
Large muskies lured by the moon
Researchers analyzed angler catch records for evidence of a lunar cycle's effect on muskie behavior. They found that muskellunge are caught consistently more around the full and new moon phases, with anglers catching 5% more fish during peak lunar days.
Toxins in the environment might make you older than your years
Exposure to environmental toxins like benzene and stress may affect biological age, with cigarette smoke considered the most significant gerontogen. Researchers advocate for molecular tests to predict toxicity and accelerate aging research.
SAGE announces winner of early research bursary for EERA annual international conference 2014
Denise Mifsud, a part-time PhD student, won the EERA/SAGE conference travel bursary to attend Emerging Researchers Conference and ECER 2014. The bursary supports early career researchers in attending these conferences, fostering discussions and debates on education policy and practice.
International collaboration highlights new mechanism explaining how cancer cells spread
Cancer cells utilize a protein called Aiolos, which allows them to acquire blood cell characteristics and spread throughout the body. Researchers have discovered how this mechanism works, offering hope for future treatments.
A more earth-friendly way to make bright white cotton fabrics
Researchers at the American Chemical Society have developed a novel compound that reduces the bleaching temperature of cotton fabrics from 200 degrees Fahrenheit to 140 degrees, significantly lowering energy consumption and producing less wastewater. The new method also improves fabric quality and maintains vibrant colors.
PTSD treatment cost-effective when patients given choice
A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that letting patients choose their PTSD treatment can lead to significant cost savings and a higher quality of life. The study showed that patients who were allowed to select their own treatment spent an average of $1,622 less per year compared to those who were assig...
NASA IceBridge concludes Arctic field campaign
NASA's Operation IceBridge concludes its 11-week Arctic field campaign, collecting data on rapidly changing areas of sea and land ice. The mission released two new sea ice data products and provided a professional development opportunity for science teachers.
Artificial lung the size of a sugar cube
Researchers have created an innovative 3D test system that allows them to simulate human body functions, enabling the development of more effective cancer treatments. The artificial lung model, no bigger than a sugar cube, can be used to analyze treatment resistance and metastasis formation, potentially leading to personalized medicine.
Study affirms value of epigenetic test for markers of prostate cancer
A commercial epigenetic diagnostic test has been found to be accurate enough to exclude the need for repeat prostate biopsies in many men. The test analyzes DNA hypermethylation levels in specific genes and shows an 88% likelihood of no cancer when all three biomarkers are absent.
'Nanodaisies' deliver drug cocktail to cancer cells
Researchers have developed nanoscale structures called 'nanodaisies' that can deliver multiple anti-cancer drugs to cancer cells. These daisy-shaped structures show promise in treating lung, leukemia, breast, prostate, liver, ovarian and brain cancers.
Researchers use light to coax stem cells to repair teeth
A Harvard-led team uses low-power laser therapy to stimulate human dental stem cells into forming dentin, a hard tissue similar to bone. The approach, led by David Mooney, could radically shift dental treatment and lead to broader clinical applications in regenerative medicine.
SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 28, 2014
Scientists control rapid re-wiring of brain circuits using patterned visual stimulation
Researchers have discovered that asynchronous firing stimulates new branch formation in nerve cells, increasing connectivity despite weakening existing connections. This finding updates Hebb's model and provides new insights into brain development and neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and schizophrenia.
Salk professor named grantee in new pancreatic cancer research program
Ronald M. Evans, director of the Gene Expression Laboratory at Salk Institute, is one of three scientists chosen for The Lustgarten Foundation's Distinguished Scholars program to focus on finding a cure for pancreatic cancer. He will expand his research on Vitamin D therapies using clinical trials in patients.
Social networks linked to better health for older adults, studies find
Regular positive interactions with family and friends can help older adults maintain good health, but negative social interactions present health risks. Studies found that social networks are associated with more involvement in leisure activities, leading to better health outcomes.
NYU researchers pilot educational and behavioral program to reduce lymphedema risk
A pilot study found that a 12-month self-care program reduced lymphedema risk in 97% of breast cancer survivors by promoting lymph flow and optimizing body mass index (BMI). The Optimal Lymph Flow program empowered patients to take proactive steps, dispelling fear and anxiety.
NASA sees northern Indian Ocean System 92B's end
System 92B dissipated on May 27 after struggling to develop in the Bay of Bengal, with NASA's TRMM and Aqua satellites capturing data on its rainfall rates and cloud heights. The storm had strong thunderstorms and generated heavy rainfall before wind shear took its toll.
Demographic of heroin users change in past 50 years
A study published in JAMA Psychiatry analyzed heroin use patterns from 1970 to 2014, revealing significant changes in demographics. The findings indicate that heroin users are becoming increasingly young, urban, and from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, reflecting broader societal trends.
Wild coho may seek genetic diversity in mate choice
A study by Oregon State University researchers found that wild coho salmon choosing mates with dissimilar MHC profiles have higher reproductive success. Hatchery-reared coho, however, lack this ability to select genetically diverse mates.
SourceOregon State University·JournalCanadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences·DateMay 28, 2014
Major discovery on the mechanism of drug resistance in leukemia and other cancers
Researchers at the University of Montreal have discovered a novel mechanism of drug resistance in leukemia and other cancers, which is driven by overactivity of the GLI1 gene. The team has identified drugs that can inhibit this gene's activity, potentially switching cancer cells back into sensitivity to existing chemotherapy.
Cats found to eat more in the winter
Researchers tracked cat food intake over four years and found a 15% decrease during summer months. Cats were more inclined to 'comfort eat' when it's cold outside.
Dads who do chores bolster daughters' aspirations
A new study suggests that fathers' involvement in household chores plays a significant role in shaping their daughters' career goals. Girls growing up in households where domestic duties are shared more equitably are more likely to have broader career ambitions.
What shaped it, how old is it, and are they connected?
Two articles investigate influence of climate, erosion, and tectonics on Bolivian Andes landscape. Researchers conclude that tectonics play primary role in shaping Earth's surface, not rainfall patterns. Tectonic deformation controls pattern of rock uplift and erosion rates.
A path toward more powerful tabletop accelerators
Researchers at Berkeley Lab discovered that certain requirements for laser pulses in emerging small-area particle accelerators can be significantly relaxed. This finding has the potential to bring about a new era of accelerators that would need just a few meters to accelerate particles to great speeds, rather than traditional accelerat...
Pitt physicist earns $3 million grant to study fundamental particle
University of Pittsburgh physicist Sergey Frolov has received a $3 million grant to explore the use of Majorana fermions in quantum computing. Theoretical findings suggest that these particles could enable the creation of novel, incredibly powerful quantum computers.
Antarctic ice-sheet less stable than previously assumed
A new study reveals that the Antarctic ice sheet is less stable than previously thought, with massive iceberg calving events causing rapid global sea level rise. The findings, published in Nature, provide direct evidence of the impact of Antarctic ice sheet instability on climate and sea levels.
Increased social network can have big payoff for nonprofits, study shows
Researchers found that even small organizations can employ social media to ride the new wave of charitable giving, increasing their support bases and ability to generate donations. The study highlights the importance of understanding and cultivating the 'social network effect' to experience a payoff in donations and supporters.
Can Tai Chi slow the aging process?
A recent study found that Tai Chi intervention increased the number of CD34+ cells in young adults, a potential indicator of anti-aging effects. This increase was comparable to brisk walking, suggesting that Tai Chi may be an effective exercise for promoting healthy aging.
SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateMay 28, 2014
Chapman University research article wins 'Best of 2013' award
A Chapman University research team, led by Yakir Aharonov and Jeff Tollaksen, has challenged long-held beliefs about the transition from microscopic to macroscopic scales in nature. Their paper proposes a new theory that gives different predictions than classical physics for certain phenomena.
Extensive cataloging of human proteins uncovers 193 never known to exist
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have cataloged over 17,000 human proteins from 30 different tissues, identifying 193 novel proteins not previously known to exist. This comprehensive dataset provides a solid foundation for speeding up biological research and diagnostic development.
High-status co-eds use 'slut discourse' to assert class advantage
A new study suggests that high-status female college students employ 'slut discourse' to signal their social status and justify more sexual exploration. They define themselves as classy, while labeling others as trashy or slutty to maintain class boundaries.
UT Arlington nursing professor studying online students' stress, sense of belonging
A UT Arlington nursing professor is conducting a multi-year study to compare the experiences of on-campus and online master's degree students. The study focuses on stress levels, sense of belonging, and factors that influence persistence in the program.
Most physicians would forgo aggressive treatment for themselves at the end of life
A Stanford study found that most physicians choose a do-not-resuscitate status for themselves when terminally ill, yet tend to pursue aggressive treatment for patients facing the same prognosis. The study suggests that the medical system's focus on high-intensity care at end-of-life contradicts Americans' preferences.
Brazilian researchers find human menstrual blood-derived cells 'feed' embryonic stem cells
Researchers have found that human menstrual blood-derived mesenchymal cells can replace animal-derived feeder systems in human embryonic stem cell culture, supporting their growth in an undifferentiated stage. This breakthrough could provide a new means of culturing ESCs for clinical purposes without potential xenocontamination.
SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Medicine·DateMay 28, 2014
Meek male and fighting female scorpions
Female bark scorpions exhibit poor sprinting ability but rapidly sting in response to simulated threats. In contrast, male scorpions have superior sprinting ability and longer legs.
Study: Amphetamines can delay exhaustion during exercise in the heat -- at a cost
Researchers found that amphetamines can delay exhaustion by increasing core temperature, but not oxygen efficiency. High doses increased muscle oxygen consumption without improving economy.
Diesel bus alternative
Researchers analyzed the cost-effectiveness of electric school buses that discharge their batteries into the electrical grid when not in use. Over 14 years, a V2G-capable electric bus fleet could save an estimated $38 million compared to diesel buses.
New study finds Antarctic Ice Sheet unstable at end of last ice age
The Antarctic Ice Sheet began melting 5,000 years earlier than thought, with eight distinct episodes causing rapid sea level rise. The study provides solid evidence that the ice sheet contributed to meltwater pulse 1A, a period of rapid sea level rise.
Acute concern for health, environment highlighted at UN-backed E-waste Academy in Latin America
Experts warn of acute health and environmental concerns due to growing e-waste generation in Latin America, with the region's middle class driving demand for electronic equipment. The UN-backed academy aims to foster multi-stakeholder partnerships to address e-waste management, but regulatory instruments remain limited.
Cynical? You may be hurting your brain health
People with high levels of cynicism are three times more likely to develop dementia than those with low levels, according to the study. High cynicism was also initially linked to earlier death, but this association disappeared after adjusting for other factors.
How long should HCV treatment last? Study suggests answers are complex
Researchers tracked real-time virus replication and drug clearance in HCV patients, revealing a lag between liver and blood viral decay. The findings suggest the need for tailored therapy to achieve viral eradication and may inform vaccine development.
Vocal fry hurts women in the labor market
A study by University of Miami researcher Casey Klofstad found that vocal fry is perceived negatively, particularly in labor market contexts, affecting women's hiring prospects. Women who use vocal fry are seen as less attractive, competent, educated, trustworthy, and ultimately less hirable than those with normal speech.
Parasitic fig wasps bore with zinc-hardened drill bit tips
Researchers discovered that female parasitic fig wasps possess zinc-tipped ovipositor drill bits, allowing them to efficiently navigate and lay eggs within the fruit's woody interior. The drill bit's hardness and wear resistance were found to be remarkable, comparable to dental implants.
Uncovering clues to the genetic cause of schizophrenia
A study sequencing the exome of 231 schizophrenia patients and their unaffected parents found that collective damage across several genes contributes to the disease. This discovery could lead to early detection and treatment strategies.
The scarier the better -- screening results that make smokers stop smoking
A study found that smokers are more likely to quit after receiving a serious lung cancer screening result. The effect appeared to be durable, lasting up to 5 years after the last screening.
SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMay 28, 2014
Some high blood pressure drugs may be associated with increased risk of vision-threatening disease
A long-term population-based cohort study found that using vasodilators was associated with a 72% greater risk of developing early-stage AMD. Oral beta blockers were also linked to an increased risk of neovascular AMD, a more advanced and vision-threatening form.
Surface physics: Leaving the islands
A team of scientists has visualized the desorption of oxygen molecules from a silver surface using low-energy electron microscopy. They found that the process involves isolated islands breaking up on the surface, leading to discrepancies between theoretical predictions and experimental measurements.
Suspect strep throat? Re-check negative rapid test results with lab culture
A study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases found that nearly seven million Americans seek medical attention for sore throats each year, with one in 10 cases being strep throat. The researchers concluded that performing a laboratory culture can help doctors and patients avoid both under-treatment and over-treatment of sore throats.
Zeroing in on the proton's magnetic moment
Scientists from RIKEN have directly measured the proton's magnetic moment with record precision, resolving one of physics' deepest mysteries. This achievement could help explain the matter-antimatter asymmetry in the universe.
Indoor tanning, even without burning, increases the risk of melanoma
A study published in JNCI: Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that indoor tanning increases melanoma risk, regardless of burn history. Researchers matched 1167 melanoma patients with 1101 control subjects and found nearly four times more indoor tanners among those with zero burns.
SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMay 28, 2014
The brain's reaction to male odor shifts at puberty in children with gender dysphoria
A new study finds that the brain of children with gender dysphoria reacts to androstadienone, a male musk-like steroid, in a way typical of their biological sex at puberty, but shifts to their experienced gender afterwards. This suggests a partial rewiring of the brain as children grow up.
Coating stents with vitamin C could reduce clotting risks
Researchers have found that coating stents with vitamin C could lower implant-related risks by inhibiting smooth muscle cell growth and encouraging endothelial cells. This technique could make stents safer for millions of Americans who receive them annually.
Sight for sore eyes: Augmented reality without the discomfort
Researchers developed a new optical see-through head-mounted display that superimposes 3D images onto the real world, reducing eye strain and discomfort. The device uses microscopic integral imaging technology to create a seamless blend of virtual and physical environments.
Drug users switch to heroin because it's cheap, easy to get
A nationwide survey reveals that heroin users are attracted to the drug for its lower cost and ease of use compared to prescription painkillers. The study found that most people switching to heroin began with OxyContin or other opioids, highlighting a significant shift in the US heroin market.
Nearly one-third of the world's population is obese or overweight, new data show
Global obesity rates have increased substantially over the last three decades, with nearly 30% of the world's population affected. The study found that children and adolescents are particularly at risk, with rates increasing by nearly 50% between 1980 and 2013.
Billions of kg of CO2 could be saved by scrapping DVDs, research suggests
A new study suggests that switching to video streaming from traditional DVD methods can significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions and energy consumption. Streaming requires less energy than buying or renting DVDs, which also emits more CO2 due to driving and data transmission.
Negative social interactions increase hypertension risk in older adults
A study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers found that negative social interactions significantly increase the risk of hypertension among older adults. Women were more affected by these interactions than men, and relationships with friends and family led to a higher risk of developing hypertension.
May the force (shoes) be with you
Researchers will use the ForceShoe to measure exercise loads and ground reaction forces, aiming to understand how joint forces differ between Earth-based exercises and those in microgravity. The goal is to recommend optimal exercise regimens for safe bone and muscle strength maintenance during spaceflight.
Supersonic spray delivers high quality graphene layer
A new supersonic spray system produces a smooth, defect-free graphene layer by dispersing and restructuring graphene flakes. This method enables the production of high-quality graphene on various substrates without post-treatment or introducing defects.