Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for October 15, 2015


Scientists identify climate 'tipping points'

An international team of scientists has identified 41 potential 'tipping points' where regional climate shifts could occur, including abrupt changes in ocean circulation patterns and vegetation. These events may happen at global warming levels below two degrees, challenging the notion of a safe limit.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2015

New technology uses smartphones and paper to analyze samples

A new study presents a portable smartphone-based detection system using a paper sensor that produces strong signals to detect pesticide thiram. The system integrates nanoparticles, a mini-laser, an optical filter, and software that runs on Android, giving reliable and accurate detection readings at low concentrations.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateOct 15, 2015

Zebrafish study sheds new light on human heart defects

A recent study using zebrafish has uncovered new insights into the causes of congenital heart defects associated with Cornelia de Lange Syndrome. The research found that lowering levels of a specific cohesin protein in embryonic zebrafish produces similar types of heart defects as those found in people with CdLS.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateOct 15, 2015

New test to predict relapse of testicular cancers

Scientists developed a test to identify patients at risk of relapse from non-seminomatous germ cell tumour. The test assessed three features: CXCL12 levels, cancer stem cells, and blood vessel presence. It divided patients into three risk groups, with the low-risk group experiencing high relapse-free survival rates.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateOct 15, 2015

Developing the tools to find new generation antibiotics

Researchers at the University of York have developed novel genetic engineering tools to manipulate genes required for antibiotic biosynthesis, enabling scientists to create new antibiotics. The technique has the potential to unlock the antibiotic potential of a significantly larger number of biosynthetic pathways than traditional methods.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateOct 15, 2015

Towards a favorable systemic radio-immunother target

A study using ^90Y-daclizumab, an anti-CD25 monoclonal antibody, achieved complete and partial responses in 50% of patients with relapsed Hodgkin's lymphoma. The treatment showed minor toxicity, but six patients developed myelodysplastic syndrome, limiting its use as a standalone therapy.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2015

Buzzing bees can't resist caffeinated nectar

Researchers found that caffeinated nectar tricks honey bees into valuing it as a higher quality forage, leading to increased foraging and recruitment behaviors. The study suggests that plants may be using caffeine as a way to deceive pollinators.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 15, 2015

Hot stuff: Magnetic domain walls

Researchers at PTB have successfully measured the thermoelectric properties of a single magnetic domain wall, a breakthrough that opens up new possibilities in spin caloritronics. The study reveals that the presence or absence of the domain wall leads to a measurable change in the thermoelectric voltage generated by the wire.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·JournalPhysical Review B·DateOct 15, 2015

What's behind your thirst?

Researchers at McGill University Health Centre discover the structure of a key protein involved in body hydration and temperature regulation. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments and diagnostic tests for conditions such as hyponatremia, a disorder that affects sodium levels in the blood.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 15, 2015

Rise and fall of agrarian states influenced by climate volatility

Research finds that climate variability played a significant role in the emergence, decline, and re-establishment of ancient agrarian states in Mexico and Peru. The study analyzed climate records from stalagmites and ice caps to understand how climate conditions influenced the growth and instability of these civilizations.

SourcePenn State·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (A )·DateOct 15, 2015

Laser-based imaging tool could increase accuracy, safety of brain tumor surgery

Researchers are testing a stimulated Raman scattering microscope to image brain tissue in real-time, allowing surgeons to see the difference between tumor tissue and normal brain. The technology has the potential to resolve a long-standing issue in cancer surgery by providing faster and more effective methods to assess tumor removal.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 15, 2015

Young Latinos experience discrimination when obtaining health care, research shows

A new study from Oregon State University found that young Latinos in rural areas experience discrimination when obtaining health care services. Nearly 40% of participants reported being prevented from accessing services or being hassled due to perceived discrimination. The researchers emphasize the need for cultural competency among he...

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Immigrant and Minority Health·DateOct 15, 2015

Scientists find potential epilepsy drug

Researchers at Duke University have discovered a potential new class of drugs that may prevent the development of temporal lobe epilepsy. A small-protein drug called pY816 was found to reduce both the likelihood and severity of epilepsy in mice after an episode of prolonged seizures.

SourceDuke University·JournalNeuron·DateOct 15, 2015

When punishment doesn't fit the crime

Research reveals that people with traumatic brain injuries (TBI) have difficulty judging the severity of crimes and assigning appropriate punishments. This impairment can affect their social skills, such as empathy and rational judgments, leading to poorer prognoses for resuming normal work and family life.

SourceSikich Marketing & Public Relations·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·DateOct 15, 2015

Green public housing may reduce health risks from environmental pollutants

A new study found that residents of green public housing experienced fewer 'sick building' symptoms and lower asthma outcomes compared to those in traditionally constructed low-income housing. The researchers also found improved indoor environmental quality, including better ventilation and reduced exposure to pollution sources.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateOct 15, 2015

Climate change requires new conservation models

A Stanford-led study assesses the health of yellow cedar trees in Alaska's Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, revealing early signs of climate change-induced dieback. The research highlights the need for new conservation strategies that integrate ecological and social dimensions to safeguard species vulnerable to climate change.

Racial bias in crosswalks? Study says yes

Researchers have found that drivers tend to discriminate based on race when stopping for pedestrians at crosswalks, with African-Americans experiencing a 32% longer wait time before yielding. The study, which controlled for age, clothing, and socioeconomic factors, suggests that implicit racial bias plays a role in driver behavior.

Duke launches autism research app with global reach

The Autism & Beyond app, developed by Duke University researchers, uses smartphone questionnaires and video analysis to gather information about children's development. The six-month study aims to detect early signs of autism and other developmental disorders, with the potential to provide broader access to mental health screening.

New in the Hastings Center Report

The Hastings Center Report explores enhancement debates, including gene editing and emotions. Alberto Giubilini argues that the methodological divide between bioconservatives and bioliberals is less significant than thought. The report also examines genome editing, ecological research ethics, and organ donation conversations.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateOct 15, 2015

Natural antioxidants show promise for use in preservation of meat and meat products

A review of studies identified 27 natural ingredients that can act as antioxidants in meat and meat products, including Mustard Leaf Kimchi Extract, Oregano Essential Oils, and Carrot Juice. These natural compounds may help preserve the quality and safety of meat products without the use of synthetic additives.

SourceInstitute of Food Technologists·JournalComprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety·DateOct 15, 2015

Yoga in jails helps make better fathers

A Washington State University study found that a yoga program for incarcerated fathers improved their parenting skills, physical health, and mental well-being. The program, called Fit Fathers, Successful Families, Inside and Out, also aimed to prevent child abuse and reduce recidivism by enhancing parents' resilience.

US neuroscientists call for creation of 'brain observatories'

Leading US neuroscientists advocate for a coordinated national network of neurotechnology centers to accelerate the BRAIN Initiative. The proposed brain observatories would unite and synergize hundreds of individual laboratories, enabling rapid progress in key areas like connectomics and neural nanoprobe systems.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateOct 15, 2015

Sendai virus defends against a threat

Researchers at Hiroshima University discovered that Sendai virus C protein inhibits STAT1 activation after interferon stimulation, enabling the virus to evade the host immune response. This finding opens up new avenues for developing anti-viral drugs to overcome damage caused by interferons.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalJournal of Virology·DateOct 15, 2015

The CNIO opens up a new avenue for combating the deterioration in blood stem cells

A study by Juan Méndez at CNIO sheds light on molecular mechanisms of ageing in blood stem cells, opening a new avenue for reducing their decline with age and potentially treating aplastic anaemia. Researchers managed to prevent embryonic lethality by increasing the levels of gene CHK1, showing less pronounced anaemia in mice.

Catalyst combining reactivity and selectivity could speed drug development

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a manganese-based catalyst that combines high reactivity and selectivity, enabling chemists to install nitrogen into carbon-hydrogen bonds with greater ease. This breakthrough has the potential to accelerate drug discovery and development, reducing costs and increasing efficiency.