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Science News for July 2, 2015


Seeing the world through assistive glasses

The ADAMAAS project aims to create a mobile assistance system that identifies problems and provides situation-dependent assistance through intelligent glasses. The technology combines eye tracking, memory research, object recognition, and augmented reality to support users in daily activities.

Soundproofing with quantum physics

Researchers have successfully applied topological insulator principles to mechanical systems, creating edge states that exhibit robust, 'topologically protected' properties. These properties make them suitable for applications in sound and vibration insulation, as well as focusing sound like a lens.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience·DateJul 2, 2015

Study shows novel HIV vaccine regimen provides robust protection in non-human primates

A new study led by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center shows that a novel HIV-1 vaccine regimen provides complete protection against simian immunodeficiency virus in half of vaccinated non-human primates. The vaccine regimen involves a viral vector boosted with a purified envelope protein, demonstrating improved protection over previo...

Viral protein in their sights

A team from Harvard Medical School has revealed the atomic level structure of VSV polymerase protein L, a key component in RNA virus replication. This finding provides insights into how these viruses copy their genomes inside host cells.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateJul 2, 2015

Working out in artificial gravity

Researchers at MIT have found that a combination of artificial gravity and exercise can significantly lessen the effects of extended weightlessness in space. The study involved healthy participants pedaling a stationary bicycle while spinning in a centrifuge, with results showing improved bone density and cardiovascular activity.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalActa Astronautica·DateJul 2, 2015

The very hungry sea anemone

Researchers at National Oceanography Centre discovered that abyssal sea anemones can consume animals weighing up to six times their own weight, taking up to 80 hours to digest. The study used time-lapse photography and technology from UK's deepest diving robot-sub to observe behaviors.

SourceNational Oceanography Centre, UK·JournalDeep Sea Research Part II Topical Studies in Oceanography·DateJul 2, 2015

Multiplying emerald ash borer decoys made easier

Researchers have developed a cost-effective method for producing hundreds of female emerald ash borer decoys using biomimetic fabrication. The new approach, which requires only one mold, is 40% more successful than previous methods and can be produced faster and less expensively.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Bionic Engineering·DateJul 2, 2015

Hippo dances with hormones

Scientists found that abnormal growth in fruit fly tumors depends on ecdysone, a steroid hormone similar to estrogen. This discovery may have implications for studying cancer stem cells and proliferative mechanisms in human cancers.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateJul 2, 2015

The sting in dengue's tail

Singapore researchers have identified specific molecular interactions in the dengue virus genome that allow it to manipulate human immune defenses and spread more efficiently. These genetic changes increase the virus's capacity for epidemic outbreaks, highlighting the need for targeted surveillance and response strategies.

SourceDuke-NUS Medical School·JournalScience·DateJul 2, 2015

Genetic testing in kids is fraught with complications

The American Society of Human Genetics recommends genetic testing for children only when results could have an immediate impact on healthcare decisions. Predictive testing is particularly complicated and may affect family relationships and mental health. ASHG advises against direct-to-consumer DNA testing, especially in healthy children.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJul 2, 2015

Water to understand the brain

Researchers from Université de Genève found that activated neurons swell due to massive entry of water, providing a new insight into brain functioning. This discovery enables the detection of cellular mechanisms behind brain activity, allowing for more accurate localization and pathologies diagnosis.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCell Reports·DateJul 2, 2015

Elastic gel to heal wounds

A team of bioengineers at Brigham and Women's Hospital developed a new protein-based gel that mimics the properties of elastic tissue when exposed to light. The gel can be controlled in its swelling and strength, making it suitable for various applications such as regenerating cells or creating a barrier over wounds.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJul 2, 2015

Melanoma mutation rewires cell metabolism

Researchers discovered that a melanoma mutation activates ketogenesis enzyme HMG-CoA lyase, turning on fat breakdown in cancer cells. This rewiring of metabolism may explain why V600E mutation is common in melanomas and provide alternative strategies to existing drugs targeting the mutation.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 2, 2015

Oregon experiments open window on landscape formation

A team of researchers led by UO doctoral student Kristin E. Sweeney conducted a series of experiments in small sandboxes to witness the formation of ridges and valleys in real-time. The study provides new insights into the competition between erosion driven by runoff and soil movement on hillsides, revealing how climate change may impa...

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalScience·DateJul 2, 2015

Do you really think you're a foodie?

A nationwide survey of 502 women found that adventurous eaters rated themselves as healthier eaters and were more physically active. They also reported being more likely to have friends over for dinner and were less concerned with the healthfulness of their food.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalObesity·DateJul 2, 2015

Can autism be measured in a sniff?

Researchers discovered that children with autism spectrum disorder exhibit a unique sniffing pattern when exposed to pleasant or unpleasant odors, allowing for accurate classification with high accuracy. The study suggests that olfactory tests could be used as an early indicator of ASD, potentially leading to more effective intervention.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 2, 2015

ASHG issues position statement on genetic testing in children and adolescents

The American Society of Human Genetics has issued a position statement on the ethical, legal, and psychosocial implications of genetic testing in children and adolescents. The statement addresses various issues related to genetic testing, including predictive testing, whole-genome sequencing, and implementation challenges.

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJul 2, 2015

Two new studies on the connection between hypertension and cognitive decline

New studies reveal that hypertensive individuals experience higher rates of cognitive decline compared to non-hypertensive populations. Additionally, African Americans with hypertension bear a disproportionate burden of disability and mortality associated with the condition. These findings underscore the importance of effective managem...

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalAmerican Journal of Hypertension·DateJul 2, 2015