Nanowires highly 'anelastic,' research shows
Researchers found that nanowires return to about 80% of their original shape quickly but recover the rest slowly over 20-30 minutes due to impurities in their crystal lattice.
Science News Archive 2015 - Page 193
Browse by Month - 2015
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Skin cancer marker plays critical role in tumor growth
A recent study published in Nature Genetics found that keratin 17 promotes tumor growth by driving a specific type of sustained inflammation that helps cancer develop aggressively. The protein is detected in various cancers and other skin diseases, but its role in tumor development was previously unknown.
Antioxidants help treat skin-picking disorder in mice, Stanford researcher says
Researchers have discovered that two antioxidant supplements, N-acetylcysteine and glutathione, are effective in treating skin-picking disorder in mice. The study suggests that people with the condition may benefit from this therapy, which could potentially lead to fewer side effects compared to existing treatments.
New approach to treating B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia shows promise
Researchers developed a new compound that stops B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia by locking a disease-related protein in an inactive state. The compound showed promise in animal studies, with improved survival rates and reduced side effects when combined with steroids.
Fracking report a 'road map' to safer energy production
A new report on hydraulic fracturing in California offers a road map for scientists to produce energy while minimizing environmental impacts. The study provides recommendations for regulating oil well stimulation treatments, ensuring protective measures for human health and the environment.
Mysterious black leopards finally reveal their spots
Researchers in Malaysia have discovered a method to identify black leopards by manipulating automatic cameras, allowing for population estimates and conservation efforts. The technique uses infrared flash to reveal complex patterns of spotting on the animals' coats.
NASA sees heavy rainfall in Tropical Storm Halola
Tropical Storm Halola has tracked west-northwestward at 11 knots (12.6 mph/20.3 kph) and is forecast to intensify as a typhoon on July 15.
Guideline recommends diet and exercise interventions to prevent diabetes
The American College of Physicians recommends combined diet and physical activity promotion programs to prevent type 2 diabetes in at-risk patients. These interventions have been shown to be effective in reducing new onset diabetes and are also cost-effective.
Lung simulation could improve respiratory treatment
University of Michigan researchers created a computer model that predicts the flow of liquid medication in human lungs, providing new insight into treating acute respiratory distress syndrome. The model suggests using a less concentrated version of the medication and optimizing its delivery based on individual patient characteristics.
SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 13, 2015
Brain study reveals insights into genetic basis of autism
Researchers discovered over 100 DNA segments, known as enhancers, that play a vital role in normal development by controlling gene activity in the human brain. The study provides new insights into the genetic basis of autism and related neurological disorders.
New gene therapy method provides specific, safe control of therapeutic transgenes
Researchers have developed a novel control system to regulate therapeutic transgene expression by targeting the passenger strand of a specific microRNA. This approach achieves safe and specific regulation while sparing endogenous gene expression, offering potential for new gene therapy applications.
SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalNucleic Acid Therapeutics·DateJul 13, 2015
NASA sees Tropical Depression Iune weaken
NASA's Terra satellite captured an image of Tropical Depression Iune as a elongated storm before dry air affected it. The depression is expected to become a post-tropical remnant low and dissipate by July 15.
Male black widow spiders destroy female's web to deter rivals
In a surprising display of courtship behavior, male black widow spiders destroy large sections of the female's web and wrap it up in their own silk. This home-wrecking behavior makes the web less attractive to rival males, potentially protecting the female from harassment and allowing her to focus on parenting.
Impact of major Alzheimer's-related gene may be felt years before any symptoms appear
Researchers found evidence of Alzheimer's-like pathologies in individuals with the APOE ε4 variant, including increased amyloid plaque and tau levels. This study provides a foundation for further research among patients at risk of Alzheimer's earlier than usual.
From sticks to balls: The shape of bacteria is evolving to better adapt to the throat
Research found that bacteria shapes changed from sticks to spheres to evade the immune system, revealing a key gene responsible for this transformation. This discovery could lead to new tools for preventing and treating respiratory infections.
Plump cartoon characters provoke indulgent eating in kids, says CU-Boulder-led study
A CU-Boulder-led study found that children consume more low-nutrition, high-calorie food after seeing seemingly overweight cartoon characters. The study shows kids apply typically human standards to cartoon creatures and can influence them to eat more junk food.
Stopping or reducing cocaine use associated with lower cardiovascular risk marker levels
A study by Johns Hopkins School of Medicine found that stopping or reducing cocaine use is associated with lower levels of endothelin-1, a protein linked to coronary artery disease. Patients who stopped using cocaine had significantly reduced ET-1 levels and a lower likelihood of coronary plaque progression.
Drug-resistant bacteria possess natural ability to become vulnerable to antibiotics
Researchers discovered that multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii can voluntarily relinquish its antibiotic-resistance genes, making it susceptible to existing antibiotics. This finding provides new strategies for combating the growing problem of antibiotic resistance.
Troubleshooting the gene targeting process
Researchers have developed a predictive software that can identify the most effective ways to target genes with CRISPR-Cas9. The software hierarchically ranks guide RNA effectiveness based on experimental data from human genomes, speeding up the gene-editing process and improving accuracy.
Fat fish illuminate human obesity
A study led by Harvard Medical School geneticists reveals that blind cavefish have mutations in the MC4R gene, which is also mutated in certain obese people. The findings provide insights into how vertebrates evolved different metabolisms and could inform the search for genes influencing human metabolism and obesity.
SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 13, 2015
Study of IRB members' industry relationships finds improvement, but some issues persist
A follow-up study of IRB members' industry relationships found improvements in disclosure and management, but persistent problems such as voting on protocols with conflicts of interest. The study also showed a decrease in problematic relationships, with increases in disclosed payments for attending meetings and conferences.
Researchers identify a novel disease gene causing neurodegenerative disorders
A novel disease gene SLC25A46 has been identified as a cause of neurodegenerative conditions, including optic atrophy and Charcot-Marie-Tooth Type 2. The study reveals that mutations in this gene disrupt mitochondrial dynamics, leading to improper localization and increased interconnectedness.
3-D printers poised to have major implications for food manufacturing
The use of 3D printers is expected to transform the food industry by enabling mass production of customized foods and speeding up delivery. Companies like PepsiCo are already utilizing 3D printing technology in non-food applications, while researchers explore its potential for producing nutrient-dense meals tailored to individual needs.
NASA sees Typhoon Nangka moving through Northwestern Pacific
Typhoon Nangka is generating very rough seas with wave heights to 45 feet, moving in a north-northwesterly direction. NASA monitored the typhoon's movement on July 13, capturing visible images of strong thunderstorms and a visible eye.
Invasions out of center of diversity increase the risk of disease epidemics in wheat
Scientists found that wheat pathogen causing yellow rust epidemics in Europe originated in the center of diversity in the Himalayan region. This can lead to significant impact on wheat production, especially organic farming in Denmark. Resistant crop varieties are crucial for disease management.
Cancer discovery links experimental vaccine and biological treatment
A new study at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has linked a vaccine targeting cancer cells with an altered enzyme that breaks apart RNA, causing cell death. The vaccine targets a carbohydrate called Globo H, which is abundant in many tumors.
'Biosimilars' for children with IBD need more research, ESPGHAN expert panel states
The European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition recommends that children with inflammatory bowel disease should not be switched to biosimilar products without long-term studies. Post-marketing surveillance programs are also essential to confirm efficacy, safety, and immunogenicity of new biosimilars.
SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition·DateJul 13, 2015
First use of NanoSIMS ion probe measurements to understand volcanic cycles at Yellowstone
Researchers use innovative NanoSIMS ion probe measurements to document concentration gradients in igneous minerals, calculating the timescale between reheating and eruption. The study suggests an eruption triggered within 10 months after a magma reservoir's reheating, predicting potential future eruptions at Yellowstone.
NASA sees Tropical Storm Dolores affecting Southwestern Mexico
Tropical Storm Dolores has lingered off Mexico's southwestern coast, bringing a tropical storm watch for several regions. Maximum sustained winds near 65 mph are expected to produce 2-4 inches of total rain accumulation along the coast.
Nixoncare vs. Obamacare: Comparing the rhetoric and reality of 2 health plans
A new study compares Nixon's health plans with Obamacare, revealing that while both aimed to provide coverage for the uninsured, Nixon's proposals were more 'liberal' and preserved the insurance industry's role. The ACA faced intense opposition, with some Democrats initially rejecting it as too moderate.
Clay sheets stack to form proton conductors
A new proton-conducting system created by Northwestern University professor Jiaxing Huang uses stacked clay sheets to concentrate protons for conduction. This breakthrough material has significant advantages over graphene-based sheets and other materials, including ease of production and high thermal stability.
Is upward mobility bad for your health?
Youth from low-income families who achieve success academically and socially may experience a physical toll on their health. High levels of self-control, which facilitates success, are associated with faster cellular aging and poorer health outcomes in adulthood.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 13, 2015
Illinois receives $1.8 million to create data platform for Big Data in plant breeding
Researchers at the University of Illinois will develop a Big Data platform to automate plant breeding using cameras, sensors, and drones. The platform aims to reduce manual measurement costs and increase efficiency in identifying high-yielding sorghum strains.
SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·DateJul 13, 2015
Researchers discover how opium poppies synthesize morphine
University of Calgary scientists have characterized a novel gene that encodes the gateway enzyme in the formation of morphine. This discovery could lead to the development of alternative painkillers, such as codeine and oxycodone.
Tagged bees causing a buzz in disease research
Researchers tracked individual bees to study the effect of a low-dose gut parasite, nosema, on their behavior. Infected bees were found to be less efficient foragers, carrying less pollen and dying younger.
Stem cells provide lasting pain relief in mice
Researchers at Duke University have discovered that stem cells from bone marrow can alleviate neuropathic pain in mice by increasing levels of the anti-inflammatory protein TGF-β1. The treatment remained effective for several weeks, outlasting traditional painkillers and offering new hope for chronic pain conditions.
Elective surgery is associated with lower risk of death than drugs for ulcerative colitis
Patients over 50 with ulcerative colitis who undergo elective colectomy live longer than those treated with medications, according to a new study. The study found that surgery was associated with an improved survival rate, particularly in patients age 50 and over.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 13, 2015
New drug combo could make cancer more sensitive to chemo
Researchers at Cancer Research UK have identified a protein called Bcl-xL that helps cancer cells survive chemotherapy. Combining drugs targeting Bcl-xL with taxanes showed increased killing of cancer cells in the lab. This combination could improve treatment for patients receiving taxanes and reduce side effects.
Lynchpin molecule for the spread of cancer found
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University discovered DNA-PKcs as a central regulator of metastatic processes in prostate cancer. The kinase modulates signaling networks that turn on metastatic processes, and its levels can predict poor outcomes in patients. A potential drug inhibitor, CC-115, is currently being tested in clinical trials.
Scientists gain new insights into 'antenna' of human cells
Researchers have identified a group of genes implicated in common inherited diseases, known as ciliopathies, which can be diagnosed more quickly and could lead to new treatments for patients. The study, published in Nature Cell Biology, found that defects in cilia, microscopic 'antennae' on cells, are responsible for the disorders.
Gene fuels age-related obesity and diabetes
A gene mutation called ankyrin-B has been found to cause cells to absorb glucose faster, leading to fat storage and type 2 diabetes. The mutations are common among certain populations, including African Americans and Caucasians, and may provide a genetic link to modern diet-related diseases.
The Lancet: Study reveals dramatic shortfall in donor funding for key global health issues
A study published in The Lancet finds that donor funding for key global health issues is significantly underfunded, with only 21% allocated to global functions. The analysis highlights the need for governments to adopt an approach emphasizing funding for global health functions to improve the health of poor people worldwide.
What happens when cosmic giants meet galactic dwarfs?
A study of over 20,000 merging galaxies found that when two galaxies collide, the larger one can stop the smaller one from forming new stars. However, when two galaxies of similar mass collide, they both increase their stellar birth rate.
SourceInternational Centre for Radio Astronomy Research·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 12, 2015
Surgeries before college athletics may result in more injuries during college play
Research suggests that athletes who underwent lower extremity surgeries before college may be left with functional deficits, increasing their risk of future injuries. The study, which analyzed data from over 1,100 athletes, found that pre-college surgeries were associated with a higher incidence of intracollegiate surgeries.
Ultrasound accelerates skin healing -- especially for diabetics and the elderly
Researchers have discovered that low-intensity ultrasound can stimulate and accelerate wound healing in individuals with chronic wounds, particularly those with diabetes or age-related circulatory issues. This breakthrough has the potential to save the NHS £3.1 billion annually and improve treatment outcomes for over 200,000 patients.
Documentation of hospital patients' malnutrition helps maximize care and reimbursement
A new review published in Nutrition in Clinical Practice found that accurate malnutrition diagnosis and coding can increase hospital payments. The American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition recommends a valid program to identify, document, intervene, and code malnutrition to enhance financial stability and clinical resources.
SourceAmerican Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.)·JournalNutrition in Clinical Practice·DateJul 12, 2015
How clouds get their brightness
Ocean organisms produce aerosols that nearly double cloud droplet numbers in summer, boosting sunlight reflection. The study estimates the equivalent solar energy impact over the whole Southern Ocean.
Group Health and UW get $13 million to study aging and the brain
The Group Health-University of Washington Adult Changes in Thought (ACT) study has been awarded nearly $13 million to continue tracking the aging process, particularly in the brain. The study aims to identify risk factors for conditions like dementia and promote healthy aging through data-driven insights.
Worms hitch rides on slugs when traveling to far flung places
Researchers found that nematode worms commonly inhabit slugs, woodlice, and centipedes, using them as public transport to find new food sources. The worms survive inside slug intestines and are excreted alive, suggesting a potentially harmless but also possibly parasitic association.
Tommy John surgeries increasing for youth athletes
Research found that 15-19 year-olds accounted for 56.7% of Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction surgeries performed in the US between 2007-2011. This represents a notable increase in incidence, with an average annual growth rate of 4.2%.
Study finds donor funds fall short for key global health functions
A new analysis finds that only a fifth of global health aid went toward research on diseases disproportionately affecting the poor and outbreak preparedness. The study recommends increasing funding for these critical global health functions to address growing threats like drug-resistant tuberculosis.
Scientists find molecular switch that creates long-term immunity
Researchers identified a protein called Myb that creates long-term immunity by preserving antibody-producing plasma cells in the bone marrow. The discovery could lead to developing lasting immunity against diseases like malaria.
Surgery a better treatment option for some hamstring injuries
A new study presents evidence that surgical treatment is more effective than non-surgical therapy for patients with certain types of hamstring injuries. Patients treated surgically showed significant improvements in lower extremity function, as well as a higher likelihood of returning to athletic activities without re-injury.
Older athletes able to return to sport after rotator cuff repair
Researchers found that 77% of older athletes (average age 73) who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair could return to their sport at similar intensity. The surgery effectively reduced pain and improved function, with patients over 70 showing significant improvement.
NASA's Fermi sees record flare from a black hole in a distant galaxy
Astronomers observed a record-setting flare from the blazar galaxy 3C 279, which became four times brighter than the brightest persistent source in the gamma-ray sky. The rapid fading of the flare was detected by NASA's Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope and other satellites.
Spotting the elephant not in the room
Researchers developed a clustering-based image segmentation approach for accurate elephant recognition in infrared images, achieving a 95% recognition rate. The algorithm could serve as the basis for detecting and preventing wild elephants from crossing forest borders and entering villages.
SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Electronic Security and Digital Forensics·DateJul 10, 2015
Could hormone-related cancers start before birth?
Researcher Laura Vandenberg is studying the role of BPS, an estrogen-mimicking chemical found in plastics and food packaging, on breast cancer risk. Exposure to these chemicals in the womb may increase breast cancer risk decades later.
Satellite shows newborn Tropical Depression 02C form in Central Pacific
Tropical Depression 02C formed over 700 miles south-southeast of Hawaii on July 10, with bands of thunderstorms from the west to east. The depression is expected to reach tropical storm strength later today and will be closely monitored by NOAA's Central Pacific Hurricane Center.
Ancestral diets determine vulnerability to type 2 diabetes
Research published in Cell Metabolism reveals that ancestral undernutrition can lead to obesity and metabolic disorders, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes. A study on rats found that descendants of undernourished ancestors were eight times more likely to develop diabetes when switched to a normal diet.
Neuroscience and technology come together to support people with disabilities
Researchers at the Centre for Genomic Regulation have developed Brain Polyphony, a device that produces sounds from brain signals, allowing people with cerebral palsy to communicate their emotions. The system uses real-time analysis of brain waves to translate into code words, providing an alternative communication method.