Two new ERC starting grants at RUB
Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have received €1.5 million ERC funding to develop novel security mechanisms for the Internet of Things and catalyzers for target-specific drug manufacture.
Science News for January 9, 2015
Mayo researchers find cancer biopsies do not promote cancer spread
Researchers at Mayo Clinic found that cancer biopsies do not increase the risk of cancer spreading, contrary to a long-held belief. Patients who underwent biopsies had significantly better overall survival rates compared to those who did not.
Bacteria could contribute to development of wound-induced skin cancer
Researchers at King's College London identified a mechanism by which bacteria trigger tumour formation in skin damaged wounds. The study highlights the role of bacterial protein flagellin and immune receptor TLR-5 in this process.
Coupling head and neck cancer screening and lung cancer scans could improve survival
A multidisciplinary team found that adding head and neck cancer screenings to recommended lung cancer screenings could improve early detection and survival. The study suggests that people at risk for lung cancer are also at higher risk for head and neck cancer, with the five-year survival rate being over 83% when caught early.
Researchers uncover cellular mechanism that protects lungs during severe infections
A novel molecular mechanism has been uncovered that tightens the bonds between cells lining blood vessels in mice, potentially preventing fluid leakage and improving survival rates. The discovery could lead to the development of new therapies targeting acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a fatal condition in approximately half ...
UCLA study IDs two genes that boost risk for post-traumatic stress disorder
Researchers at UCLA have discovered a genetic link between PTSD and two gene variants, COMT and TPH-2. These variants may contribute to the onset and persistence of the disorder, suggesting that heredity influences a person's risk of developing PTSD. The findings could lead to faster diagnosis and better treatment for survivors.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Affective Disorders·DateJan 9, 2015
Alley receives BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Award in Climate Change
Richard Alley has received the BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Award in Climate Change for his pioneering research on abrupt climate change. He is recognized as a leading expert on ice and its implications for fast glacier flow and sea-level change.
Karyomapping offers new way of detecting genetic conditions in IVF embryos
Researchers at the University of Kent have identified karyomapping as a viable and cost-effective method for detecting genetic diseases in IVF embryos. This technique simultaneously detects chromosomal disorders with monogenic disorders, potentially reducing the need for individualized tests.
Salvaging the ecosystem after salvage logging
A study published in Forest Ecology and Management found that salvage logging increases sediment in water runoff, causing erosion and damage to fish habitats. Leaving slash on the ground, breaking up equipment trails with water bars, and replanting vegetation are recommended best management practices for minimizing ecological effects.
Small volcanic eruptions partly explain 'warming hiatus'
Recent small volcanic eruptions have been identified as a contributing factor to the recent 'warming hiatus', with scientists finding that they cool the atmosphere and reflect sunlight away from Earth. The new research complements earlier studies, which found that volcanoes may have caused cooling of up to 0.12 degrees Celsius since 2000.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 9, 2015
Photonic booms may help illuminate astronomical secrets
Researchers propose using photonic booms to map asteroid surfaces and study celestial objects, offering new insights into the universe. High-speed cameras could capture these flashes, revealing previously unknown information about asteroids and other cosmic bodies.
SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalPublications of the Astronomical Society of Australia·DateJan 9, 2015
Chitosan, a sustainable alternative for food packaging
Researchers have developed chitosan-based coatings to reduce the microbial load of carrots, providing a biodegradable and sustainable solution for food packaging. The use of this material has shown promising results in laboratory tests, but further research is needed to explore its industrial potential.
Playing catch can improve balance, prevent falls in seniors
Research at the University of Illinois at Chicago found that playing catch can improve balance and prevent falls in seniors by enhancing anticipatory postural control. The study also showed a transfer effect, where training improved performance on other tasks beyond the specific activity.
Novel breast cancer gene found
Researchers have discovered a novel breast cancer gene called BCL11A that drives the development and progression of triple-negative breast cancer. The study found that BCL11A is active in approximately eight out of ten patients with basal-like breast cancer, and its activity is associated with a more advanced grade of tumour.
Map of mysterious molecules in our galaxy sheds new light on century-old puzzle
Researchers have created a unique map of enigmatic molecules in our galaxy, revealing their locations and environments. The study, led by Johns Hopkins astronomers, analyzed light from hundreds of thousands of celestial objects to detect the features of these mysterious molecules.
Toward quantum chips
Researchers have built an array of light detectors sensitive enough to register individual photons and mounted them on a silicon optical chip. The approach increases detector density and sensitivity, yielding results up to 20 percent, which is a significant step toward practical quantum computing.
What can your online avatar say about your personality?
A study published in Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin found that some personality traits are more accurately communicated through online avatars than others. Outgoing individuals tend to create avatars that convey their personality, while those high in neuroticism struggle to express themselves accurately. Customizing an avat...
SourceSociety for Personality and Social Psychology·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateJan 9, 2015
Going viral: Targeting brain cancer cells with a wound-healing drug
Researchers aim to eradicate glioblastomas by delivering the wound-healing peptide ACT1 to cancer cells via a virus. This approach has shown promising results in reducing tumor growth and increasing sensitivity to TMZ. The goal is to develop a novel therapy that can improve treatment outcomes for brain cancer patients.
Tumor-blocking role found for cell regulation molecule
Scientists from the University of Manchester discovered that ATF2 protein suppresses tumour growth in liver cancer models. The study suggests that ATF2's tumor-suppressing function may be more widespread than previously thought.
Alterations in fatty acid synthesis linked to sepsis inflammation
A study in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that UCP2 induces fatty acid synthesis, activating inflammatory pathways in patients with sepsis. Lack of UCP2 improved survival in a mouse model of sepsis, suggesting UCP2 as a potential therapeutic target.
UT Arlington to lead study defining nursing competency standards
The University of Texas at Arlington is leading a multi-institution study to determine the optimal amount and nature of clinical experiences required for nursing school graduates to achieve competency upon graduation. The research involves over 1,700 students and partners with six North Texas health care systems.
Interferon-free combination therapy prevents recurrence of HCV after liver transplantation
A 24-week course of sofosbuvir and ribavirin prevents HCV recurrence after liver transplantation, with positive outcomes for short- and long-term health. The therapy is effective in 70% of patients, including those with advanced disease.
Research finds salt tolerance gene in soybean
A collaborative research project has identified a specific gene in soybean that improves its tolerance to soil salinity. The researchers found that this gene can be used to breed soybeans that can thrive in areas with high salt levels, which is essential for improving global food security.
Infamous study of humanity's 'dark side' may actually show how to keep it at bay
Researchers found six resistive actions employed by both obedient and disobedient participants, with disobedients resisting earlier and using more diverse methods. Training in these practices could enable individuals to stand up to unethical orders, not just in extreme situations.
LJI scientist receives $1.6 million grant from American Diabetes Association
Stephanie Stanford, Ph.D., has been awarded a $1.6 million grant by the American Diabetes Association to investigate the genetic and environmental causes of type 1 diabetes. The grant will support her research on the PTPN22 gene mutation that significantly increases the risk of type 1 diabetes.
Optimistic people have healthier hearts, study finds
A study found that optimistic individuals have significantly better blood sugar and total cholesterol levels, are more physically active, and have healthier body mass indexes. They were also less likely to smoke and had a stronger association with cardiovascular health when socio-demographic characteristics were factored in.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalHealth Behavior and Policy Review·DateJan 9, 2015