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Science News Archive May 2015 - Page 29


Page 29 of 31

Nerves move to avoid damage

New research reveals neural movements can be measured and predicted using non-invasive techniques, helping explain widespread syndromes like carpal tunnel syndrome and sciatica. The study highlights the importance of preserving free movement of neural structures to maintain an asymptomatic situation.

How do neural cells respond to ischemia?

A study published in Genome Biology reveals that within 20 minutes of ischemia, significant changes occur in protein synthesis, primarily involving mitochondrial respiratory chain proteins. The findings suggest an early system of regulation, including the increase in UBE2S protein, which may directly affect the HIF signaling pathway.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalGenome Biology·DateMay 5, 2015

Toward a squishier robot

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh designed a synthetic polymer gel that can change shape and move using its own internally generated power. The SP-BZ gel combines the properties of two materials to enable self-bending, folding, and self-propelled motion.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 5, 2015

Late-night snacking: It it your brain's fault?

A study published in Brain Imaging and Behavior found that brain activity responding to high-calorie food images is lower at night compared to daytime. Researchers used MRI to measure neural responses to food images during morning and evening sessions, revealing a dip in reward-related brain reactivity in the evening.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalBrain Imaging and Behavior·DateMay 5, 2015

Nonstop shopping

Researchers found that mobile shoppers tend to purchase items they've purchased before or from familiar brands, due to limited smartphone screen size. Low spenders also shop more frequently after adopting mobile shopping, leading to larger orders.

SourceJournal of Retailing at New York University·JournalJournal of Retailing·DateMay 5, 2015

Accelerated brain aging in type 1 diabetes related to cognitive complications

Research led by the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health shows that people with type 1 diabetes experience accelerated brain aging, correlated with slower information processing and cognitive difficulties. The study suggests clinicians should screen middle-aged patients for cognitive complications to prevent potent...

From brittle to plastic in 1 breath

Researchers at Rice University have found ways to make 2D molybdenum disulfide exhibit superplasticity by manipulating its gas environment, allowing it to deform without breaking. This breakthrough opens the possibility of tailoring the plastic properties of these materials for specific applications.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateMay 4, 2015

India drift

MIT researchers explain India's rapid move toward Eurasia 80 million years ago by the combination of two subduction zones. The team found relics of what may have been two subduction zones in rocks from the Himalayan region, which led them to develop a model for a double subduction system.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 4, 2015

Study finds inhibitor for COPD lung destruction

Researchers at Brown and Yale implicates a specific mitochondrial protein, NLRX1, in the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) from exposure to cigarette smoke. The study shows that suppression of NLRX1 is a major cigarette-induced signature of lung destruction.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 4, 2015

Malarial parasites dodge the kill

Researchers have identified a way for malaria parasites to dodge anti-malarial drugs, surviving inside immature red blood cells and remaining sensitive to certain treatments. This finding may help guide future research and lead to the development of new anti-malarial drugs for refractory patients.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMay 4, 2015

Lab test commonly used to assess water toxicity

Researchers found that H. azteca from polluted sites are less sensitive to pyrethroid insecticides than lab-grown ones. This suggests standard testing methods may not accurately reflect environmental health

SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateMay 4, 2015