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Science News Archive July 2015 - Page 23


Page 23 of 34

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.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalCancer Cell·DateJul 13, 2015

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.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJul 13, 2015

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.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 13, 2015

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.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateJul 12, 2015

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.

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

Graphene-based film can be used for efficient cooling of electronics

Researchers developed a graphene-based film that efficiently cools electronics by increasing thermal conductivity to four times that of copper. The film can be attached to silicon components, overcoming previous adhesion issues, and has been tested with an additive creating stronger silane bonds, resulting in improved heat transfer.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJul 10, 2015

Improved sperm diagnostic test may pinpoint best fertility treatment for couples

Researchers developed a diagnostic test for sperm RNA based on next-generation sequencing, which may help determine the best infertility treatment for couples having difficulty conceiving. The test can identify those who benefit from assisted reproductive technologies and those who may be successful with minimal intervention.

The role of the microbiota in preventing allergies

The study demonstrates how the microbiota acts on the balance of the immune system, specifically blocking type 2 immune responses that lead to allergic reactions. By stimulating type 3 cells, which coordinate phagocytosis and killing of microbes, the researchers provide an innovative therapeutic approach for allergy treatment.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalScience·DateJul 10, 2015

Risk of COPD may already occur in adolescence

A groundbreaking study reveals that COPD can develop without accelerated lung function decline. The research indicates two major trajectories of lung function leading to COPD: a fast decline trajectory and an alternative trajectory where suboptimal lung function development in childhood and adolescence is the primary determinant.