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Science News for May 7, 2014


A lab in your pocket

Researchers at Michigan Technological University have developed software to design lab-on-a-chip hardware, enabling the simultaneous testing of dozens of medical conditions with a single drop of blood. The technology could revolutionize medical diagnostics by providing fast and accurate results miles from the nearest clinic.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalIEEE Transactions on NanoBioscience·DateMay 7, 2014

Malaria severity not determined solely by parasite levels in blood

A recent NIH-funded study tracked Tanzanian children's risk of severe malaria over time, finding no simple relationship between parasite density and disease severity. The research suggests that even mild episodes of malaria may pose a significant risk of severe illness, contrary to previous mathematical models.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 7, 2014

New care approach eases depression among women

Women who received collaborative care for depression at an obstetrics and gynecology clinic showed significant reduction in symptoms, with more than half experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder as well. The approach, called Depression Attention for Women Now, improved patient engagement, treatment recommendations, and follow-up care.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateMay 7, 2014

Nanoscale heat flow predictions

Researchers developed a predictive theoretical model for heat flux in novel nanomaterials using atom-scale calculations. This could help optimize thermal budget of nanoelectronic devices and produce energy through thermoelectric effects.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateMay 7, 2014

TAG-1 induces apoptosisrelated gene expression without triggering glioma apoptosis

Researchers found that TAG-1 enhances proliferation and induces apoptosis-related gene expression without triggering apoptosis in U251 glioma cells. This study provides novel insight into the mechanisms of glial tumorigenesis by revealing the effects of transient axonal glycoprotein-1 on cell viability and signaling pathways.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateMay 7, 2014

Today's offenders are tomorrow's victims in gangs

A new study by Sam Houston State University found that gang members are twice as likely to become both victims and offenders of a crime than non-gang members. The study suggests that gang membership is a common source of both forms of violence, with group processes and norms facilitating trading places between victim and offender.

SourceSam Houston State University·JournalJournal of Research in Crime and Delinquency·DateMay 7, 2014

Ancient crater points to massive meteorite strike

An eight-kilometre-wide crater was formed in southern Alberta, producing a massive explosion that destroyed present-day Calgary, according to researchers. The impact site, dated within the last 70 million years, had devastating consequences for life in the area, with global implications.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalMeteoritics and Planetary Science·DateMay 7, 2014

Mapping the spider genome

Researchers at Aarhus University have sequenced the spider genome, providing a genetic map for future studies. The study reveals genes specific to spiders and sheds light on their incredible abilities, such as making silk and producing venom.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 7, 2014

Recent Ebola outbreak highlights need for better global response

The Ebola outbreak in West Africa underscores the importance of real-time data sharing among scientists to improve public health responses. Implementing a regional diagnostic approach can enhance laboratory capabilities, reduce waiting times for test results, and help determine whether established test methods will work or fail.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 7, 2014

Shuganjieyu capsule increases neurotrophic factor expression in a rat model of depression

The study found that Shuganjieyu capsule increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor and phosphorylated cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element binding protein expression levels, which may be one of the anti-depressant mechanisms. This increase in expression reverses depressive-like behaviors in rat models of depression.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateMay 7, 2014

Study finds genetic patterns in preeclampsia

Researchers identified distinct genetic underpinnings for different manifestations of preeclampsia, including early vs. late timing and high severity levels. The study found unique sets of genes involved from both mother and fetus, suggesting specific biological contributions to the condition.

SourceBrown University·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateMay 7, 2014