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Science News for October 22, 2014


Expert recommendations for diagnosing pediatric acute onset neuropsychiatric syndrome

A consensus statement from leading clinicians and researchers recommends a systematic approach to evaluating youngsters with sudden onset of neuropsychiatric symptoms, including obsessive-compulsive disorder. The guidelines aim to clarify diagnostic boundaries, develop evaluation strategies, and identify urgently needed studies.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology·DateOct 22, 2014

When heart cancer hides in the brain

Two patients with cardiac lymphoma presented with brain metastasis, highlighting the need for identifying prognostic factors that predict brain relapse. Cardiac lymphoma is a rare condition often overlooked due to its potential for central nervous system metastasis.

Sourceecancermedicalscience·Journalecancermedicalscience·DateOct 22, 2014

Cooling with molecules

Researchers at Bielefeld University and colleagues successfully cooled to minus 272.15 degrees Celsius using magnetic molecules, surpassing absolute zero. The discovery could provide an alternative to helium-based refrigerants and has implications for various applications such as transparent magnets and nano data memoires.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 22, 2014

Early intervention could boost education levels

Researchers found that progressive educational interventions can improve school entry academic skills and later educational outcomes, leading to a potential 5% increase in population-level academic achievement. The study suggests that pre-school education is crucial in setting children on the right path, with the potential to reduce so...

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalChild Development·DateOct 22, 2014

Molecule could suppress immune system's 'friendly fire'

Researchers have discovered a molecule, IGF-1, that can induce the production of T-reg cells, suppressing symptoms of autoimmune diseases. The findings confirm IGF-1's direct action on T-reg cells, making it a promising therapeutic option for conditions like type-1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis.

SourceMonash University·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateOct 22, 2014

UTMB researchers uncover powerful new class of weapons in the war on cancer

Researchers at UTMB have discovered three small-molecule compounds that activate Bax and induce high levels of cell death in lung cancer cells without harming noncancerous tissues. These findings represent a new class of anticancer drugs with a unique therapeutic target for the treatment of cancers expressing Bax, including lung cancer.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 22, 2014

Two families of comets found around nearby star

The study reveals two distinct families of exocomets in the Beta Pictoris system: old and recent ones. The old family has weak activity with low gas production rates, while the second family is more active and likely originates from a single object's breakup.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateOct 22, 2014

BJOG releases MPT special supplement

A new supplement in BJOG explores the potential of broad-spectrum prevention methods that can prevent unintended pregnancy and STIs, including HIV. The research highlights the need for funding to spur innovation and close gaps in development.

SourceCAMI Health·JournalBritish Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology·DateOct 22, 2014

Cause of aging remains elusive

A recent study aimed to determine the role of free radicals in aging, but was refuted due to limitations with the measurement tool used. The researchers found that changes in pH levels inside mitochondria, rather than free radical release, were responsible for the signals detected by the probe.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature·DateOct 22, 2014

New window on the early universe

Researchers at the University of Bonn and Cardiff develop a new observational strategy for imaging extremely distant galaxies, using ALMA radio telescope data. This method improves upon previous efforts by accurately estimating molecular hydrogen presence in these galaxies, providing insights into galaxy formation and star creation.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateOct 22, 2014

Indiana Project screenings show need for more mental health services in youth detention

A recent study by Indiana University School of Medicine found that nearly 21% of youths screened positive for mental health issues requiring follow-up. Female detainees were more likely to screen positive than male detainees, with significant disparities in service utilization based on race/ethnicity. The findings underscore the need f...

SourceIndiana University·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateOct 22, 2014

Brain simulation raises questions

Researchers discuss the limitations of brain simulations, citing the need to account for individual experience and social context. They also raise concerns about the potential creation of artificial consciousness and the technical challenges of simulating complex biological systems.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNeuron·DateOct 22, 2014

Sopping up proteins with thermosponges

The study demonstrates that thermosponge nanoparticles can effectively deliver a variety of proteins while preserving their biological activity. The new platform is designed to eliminate the need for harsh solvents and shows promise for delivering protein-based drugs for human therapeutics.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNano Letters·DateOct 22, 2014

Rapid test to diagnose severe sepsis

A new rapid test developed by University of British Columbia researchers can predict severe sepsis within an hour, allowing timely treatment to begin. The genetic signature associated with the disease has been identified and can be tested as soon as a patient arrives in the emergency ward.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalEBioMedicine·DateOct 22, 2014

Trans fats still weighing Americans down

A study found that American consumers consume more than 1% of their daily calories from trans fats, exceeding the American Heart Association's recommendation. Omega-3 fatty acids have not changed significantly over the past thirty years and may help improve cardiovascular disease risk.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateOct 22, 2014

Ph.D. designs new devices based on metamaterials

The researcher designed and manufactured new devices based on epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) metamaterials, achieving high speed transmission and radiation focusing properties. The devices have potential applications in nanocircuits, electrical levitation, invisibility, and multiple-frequency spectroscopy experiments.

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalJournal of Optics·DateOct 22, 2014