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Science News for July 15, 2015


Your phone knows if you're depressed

A study by Northwestern University found that smartphone sensor data can detect depression with 87% accuracy, analyzing time spent on phones and daily locations. The research uses GPS tracking and algorithms to identify patterns associated with depression, paving the way for passive detection and potential interventions.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Medical Internet Research·DateJul 15, 2015

CU researchers offer lower-cost procedure for children with digestive tract problems

Researchers at the University of Colorado School of Medicine have developed a safe and lower-cost way to diagnose and treat digestive tract problems in children, using unsedated transnasal endoscopy. The procedure has been shown to be effective in evaluating pediatric patients with potentially chronic problems in their esophagus, reduc...

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateJul 15, 2015

Marine litter undermines benefits of coastal environments

A recent study published in Environment and Behavior found that marine litter significantly undermines the psychological benefits of coastal environments. The research, conducted by Plymouth University, showed that participants rated clean beaches most positively, while scenes with seaweed or public litter were rated more negatively.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalEnvironment and Behavior·DateJul 15, 2015

Uncovering a key relationship in ALS

A University of Toronto research team discovered a new link between the genetic cause of ALS and its pathology, suggesting that C9orf72's mislocalization leads to TDP-43 buildup. This breakthrough offers new avenues for research and potential treatment or cure.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateJul 15, 2015

Age doesn't dull damselfly sex

Researchers observed azure damselflies mating for two years, finding that older females and males were equally successful at finding mates and reproducing. The study provides insights into aging and population dynamics in insects, with potential implications for understanding mosquito and tsetse fly populations.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateJul 15, 2015

'White graphene' structures can take the heat

Researchers at Rice University have found that three-dimensional boron nitride structures can efficiently control heat flow in electronics by slowing down phonon transfer between layers. These structures, composed of hexagonal boron nitride sheets and boron nitride nanotubes, can be tuned to create thermal switches or rectifiers.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJul 15, 2015

Rates of drunk driving tied to state alcohol policies, BU study finds

A new study by Boston University researchers found that states with more restrictive alcohol policies and regulations have lower rates of self-reported drunk driving. The study also suggests that laws targeting binge drinking are equally effective in preventing drunk driving as those specifically targeting impaired driving.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalThe International Journal of Alcohol and Drug Research·DateJul 15, 2015

Boosting nutrients gives a leg up to invasive species

A global study by University of Minnesota researchers found that adding nutrients to grasslands gives invasive species a leg up on native species. The study, published in Nature Communications, used data from 64 sites across 13 countries to pinpoint the role of nutrient availability and herbivore density in plant invasion.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 15, 2015

For faster, larger graphene add a liquid layer

Researchers at Oxford University have developed a scalable technique to produce millimetre-sized graphene crystals in minutes, compared to hours using current methods. The new approach creates a liquid layer that smooths out nanoscale valleys, allowing for larger flakes of high-quality graphene.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 15, 2015

Does heart disease begin in childhood?

Researchers found a statistically significant association between higher vitamin D levels and lower non-HDL cholesterol in children aged one to five years. The study suggests that factors leading to cardiovascular disease may start in early childhood, providing an opportunity for early life interventions to reduce risk.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 15, 2015

Evolutionary trees reveal patterns of microbial diversification

Researchers have created a new microbial 'family tree' that displays sudden bursts of diversification, potentially helping understand how harmful microbes evolve. This breakthrough uses coarse-graining and Λ-coalescent models to condense short branches into larger nodes, revealing patterns of ecological processes.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 15, 2015

Brain network that controls, redirects attention identified

A unique brain network in humans controls and redirects attention, allowing us to select and prioritize information based on our needs. This network, which includes the dorsal and ventral attention networks, may have evolved to better process complex social cues and distinguish between relevant and irrelevant stimuli.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 15, 2015

Scientists 'watch' rats string memories together

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered that the mammalian brain likely reconstructs memories in a way more like jumping across stepping stones than walking across a bridge. The study used electrode implants to track nerve cells firing in rats' brains as they planned their next move, revealing gaps between discrete memories.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalScience·DateJul 15, 2015

Altruism is simpler than we thought

A computational model suggests that generosity and selfishness can be both fast and effortless, depending on the person and context. The model indicates that people are happier when mistaken generosity doesn't happen, highlighting the importance of focusing on others' thoughts and experiences.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateJul 15, 2015

Physical fitness in US youth assessed: NFL PLAY 60 FITNESSGRAM shows more activity needed

A nationwide sample of 1st through 12th graders showed less than 60% meeting healthy fitness standards for aerobic capacity and body mass index. The middle school years are critical when aerobic capacity declines and body mass index increases, emphasizing the need for early intervention to prevent declining physical activity.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateJul 15, 2015

Oriental honey buzzards might stop to smell the pollen

Researchers found that Oriental honey buzzards prefer pollen-containing dough over pollen-lacking dough, even when the color is identical. The birds also preferred yellow-colored dough over black or green dough when both contained pollen, suggesting a role for vision in foraging.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 15, 2015

Oil spills affecting fish population

Dilbit spills can harm fish populations with deformities and genetic stress, reducing survival rates by impairing feeding and predator avoidance. The study provides a technical basis for decisions on dilbit transportation in Canada.

SourceQueen's University·JournalAquatic Toxicology·DateJul 15, 2015

Jupiter twin discovered around solar twin

A Brazilian-led team has discovered a planet with a mass similar to Jupiter's, orbiting a Sun-like star at almost the same distance. The planet's host, HIP 11915, is also similar in mass and age to our Sun, with a composition that hints at possible rocky planets.

SourceESO·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateJul 15, 2015

'Cracking' gluten intolerance

University of Alberta researchers have created a natural supplement from chicken egg yolks that prevents the absorption of gliadin, a component of gluten causing damage to the small intestine in people with celiac disease. The supplement aims to improve the quality of life for those affected by gluten intolerance.

Color-blind? Whites aware of their bias better for modern race issues, says new study

A new study published in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology finds that white Americans who acknowledge their biases are more effective at addressing contemporary racial challenges. The research suggests that personal awareness and acceptance are key factors in developing 'concerned awareness' of racial bias.

SourceUniversity of Vermont·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateJul 15, 2015

Better chocolate with microbes

A team of Belgian researchers has discovered a yeast species that significantly improves chocolate fermentation, resulting in better and more consistent chocolate. The new method allows for the creation of specialty chocolates with unique flavors.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJul 15, 2015

New guidelines for the treatment of IPF released by leading respiratory societies

The American Thoracic Society has released updated guidelines for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), emphasizing a patient-centered approach. The new guidelines recommend against certain treatments, including anticoagulation and imatinib, while encouraging the use of nintedanib and pirfenidone.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJul 15, 2015

Air pollution from wildfires may ignite heart hazards

Researchers found a strong association between exposure to tiny particulate pollutants from wildfire smoke and the risk of heart-related incidents, including cardiac arrests, emergency department visits, and hospitalizations. The study suggests that fine particulate matter may act as a trigger factor for acute cardiovascular events.

SourceMonash University·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJul 15, 2015

Outcomes comparable for in-person and in-home telerehabilitation following total knee replacement surgery

Patients who received telerehabilitation had similar outcomes to those receiving in-person physical therapy following total knee replacement surgery. Telerehabilitation was found to be effective for patients with travel limitations or rural/underserved areas, offering the same quality services in their home environment.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateJul 15, 2015

Stem cells move one step closer to cure for genetic diseases

Scientists have developed a new method to generate healthy stem cells from patient cells with mitochondrial mutations, which can then be converted into various cell types. This breakthrough has the potential to treat debilitating mitochondrial diseases that affect the brain and muscles, offering new hope for patients worldwide.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature·DateJul 15, 2015