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Science News for January 14, 2015


Better data needed to make good immigration policy

Researchers rely on imputation methods to estimate immigrant populations' legal status and insurance coverage, but these methods may deliver inaccurate results. Inaccurate estimates can lead to planning and implementation of policies with unintended consequences for local groups.

SourcePenn State·JournalDemography·DateJan 14, 2015

CNIO associates rare gene variants with side effects from chemotherapy with paclitaxel

Researchers have identified genetic markers associated with severe neurological toxicity in patients treated with paclitaxel, a highly effective but toxic chemotherapeutic drug. The study found that specific genetic variants can lead to reduced drug excretion and increased toxicity, allowing for personalized treatment risk assessment.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJan 14, 2015

Pitt study links biomarkers to long-term kidney damage and death in critically ill

A Pitt study links biomarkers to long-term kidney damage and death in critically ill, highlighting the importance of early intervention. Researchers found that tissue inhibitor metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) and IGF-binding protein-7 (IGFBP7) can identify patients at increased risk for adverse outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJan 14, 2015

Designing effective health messages

A new study published in Nutrition Reviews finds that the type of health messaging is more effective depending on the target audience. For those highly involved in the field, negative loss-framed messages are most effective, while positive gain-framed messages resonate with the general public.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalNutrition Reviews·DateJan 14, 2015

Stargazers begin hunt for planets

The University of Warwick's Next Generation Transit Survey (NGTS) aims to detect small planets from Neptune size down to twice the size of Earth. Researchers hope to study the atmospheres and composition of these super-Earths, which are thought to be common around other stars.

A twist on planetary origins

Researchers at MIT and Purdue University have found that meteorites are not building blocks of planets, but rather byproducts of a violent planetary process. Computer simulations show that large moon-sized bodies likely existed before chondrules formed, which were then created by collisions of these bodies.

New study reports worsening health conditions increase risk of mortgage default and disclosure

A new study reveals that worsening health conditions can serve as a predictor to mortgage distress, increasing the risk of default and foreclosure. The study found that middle-aged adults with worsening chronic conditions face nearly twice the risk of mortgage default compared to those without worsening conditions.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateJan 14, 2015

New contaminants found in oil and gas wastewater

Duke University scientists have discovered high levels of ammonium and iodide in oil and gas wastewater, exceeding EPA water-quality thresholds. These contaminants can harm aquatic life and promote toxic byproducts in drinking water when mixed with chlorine.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 14, 2015

Scientists developing imaging test for autism spectrum disorder

Researchers at Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute have developed a brain-imaging technique that can detect autism spectrum disorder in children. The test, which involves measuring perspective-tracking responses, has shown promising diagnostic potential and may revolutionize the way autism is diagnosed.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalClinical Psychological Science·DateJan 14, 2015

One punch to knock out flu

Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a new class of antibodies that can neutralize a wide range of influenza A viruses, paving the way for a universal flu vaccine. The vaccine would only need to be given once and could protect against all strains of flu, even when the virus mutates.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJournal of Virology·DateJan 14, 2015

Coenzyme A plays leading role in nitric oxide function so essential to cell metabolism

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University discovered coenzyme A's crucial role in cell metabolism and its regulation of nitric oxide. The study identified hundreds of proteins influenced by coenzyme A-driven protein nitrosylation, with potential implications for understanding disease mechanisms.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2015

Root hydraulic conductance linked to trees' post-transplant recovery

Researchers found that fine root hydraulic conductance is related to transplant recovery in two Quercus species, with spring transplanting optimal for Quercus bicolor. The study suggests that understanding tree roots' behavior can inform better decisions regarding transplant timing and improve post-transplant recovery.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalJournal of the American Society for Horticultural Science·DateJan 14, 2015

Improved solar panels and printed electronics on the horizon with new material discovery

Researchers have discovered a highly sought-after material that can lead to vastly improved organic solar cell performance, increasing efficiency from 8% to 9.3%. The new discovery enables the production of cells that are double in thickness and opens up opportunities for the development of new materials with improved performance.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 14, 2015

Out of the pouch: Ancient DNA from extinct giant roos

Scientists successfully extracted DNA from Australia's extinct giant kangaroos, confirming their close relationship with modern macropods. The study also sheds light on the distinct lineage of short-faced kangaroos and highlights the importance of conservation for endangered species like the banded hare-wallaby.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJan 14, 2015

Laser-induced graphene 'super' for electronics

Researchers at Rice University have developed stacked, three-dimensional supercapacitors using laser-induced graphene, which show excellent energy-storage capacity and power potential. The devices can be scaled up for commercial applications and offer flexibility and scalability benefits.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 14, 2015

State performance funding falling short in student retention and degree completion

New research found that state performance funding in Washington State did not increase student retention and degree completion, despite being a model for accountability systems. However, short-term certificate programs showed growth in students earning certificates with little value in the labor market.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalEducational Evaluation and Policy Analysis·DateJan 14, 2015

Does screening asymptomatic adults for disease save lives?

Researchers evaluated 39 screening tests for 19 major diseases and found that only a few tests showed a reduction in disease-specific mortality. Screening for asymptomatic adults has been met with controversy, particularly regarding breast cancer and prostate cancer screening. The study suggests that expectations of major benefits from...

SourceOxford University Press UK·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateJan 14, 2015

Correcting estimates of sea level rise

A Harvard University study reveals that global sea level has accelerated far more than initially thought, with a 30% increase in sea level rise from 1900-1990 compared to previous estimates. The researchers used a new approach to estimate sea level change by accounting for the limitations of existing tide gauge records.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateJan 14, 2015

Love, marriage and town-gown relationships

A new study from Ohio State University finds that community members feel most contact with Ohio State students, highlighting the importance of student engagement. The assessment also reveals the impact of distance on town-gown relationships, suggesting that colleges must make a special effort to reach local communities.

SourceOhio State University·JournalInnovative Higher Education·DateJan 14, 2015

New restoration focus for western dry forests

A study suggests that dry forests in the western US are more threatened by insect outbreaks and droughts than wildfires. Historically, these forests had a mix of large and small trees, providing 'bet-hedging' insurance against multiple disturbances.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateJan 14, 2015

Atomic placement of elements counts for strong concrete

Researchers Rouzbeh Shahsavari and Saroosh Jalilvand found that atomic-level forces affect the mechanical properties of complex particle-based materials, such as concrete. They suggest new ways to fine-tune chemistry to make concrete less prone to cracking and more suitable for specific applications.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 14, 2015

Debunking aging myths in financial decisions

A new study from Columbia Business School found that 'crystallized intelligence,' gained through experience and accumulated knowledge, is more important than 'fluid intelligence' in making sound financial decisions. The research suggests guidelines for policymakers to help older adults with complex financial decisions.

SourceColumbia Business School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2015

How cells communicate

The study of zebrafish at the European Zebrafish Resource Center has shown that signaling molecules are transmitted in bundles via long filopodia, influencing signaling properties and tissue development. This precise control enables cells to develop their special structure and function.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 14, 2015

Paradox revealed: Cues associated with infant abuse may help reduce stress in adult brain

Researchers discovered that trauma-related cues from infancy can lower depressive-like behavior in adults, contrary to previous expectations. The study found that these cues altered the brain's serotonin levels, leading to mood uplift and alleviating depression in grown rats.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 14, 2015

Race of the electrons

Scientists have successfully tracked the motion of electrons in metals using laser pulses, achieving attosecond precision. The results demonstrate that electrons travel through metals ballistically, with their arrival times dependent on layer thickness. This breakthrough has significant implications for the miniaturization of electroni...

Mutations linked to repair of chromosome ends may make emphysema more likely in smokers

A new study found that mutations in the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) gene increase the risk of emphysema in smokers. Female smokers with these mutations may be more susceptible to the disease. The researchers also discovered a link between telomere shortening and other health problems, such as osteoporosis and liver disease.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 14, 2015