Erratum to 2015 Science paper on ancient Ethiopian genome
A bioinformatics error affected the results, overestimating the genetic impact. The corrected study reveals extensive Eurasian admixture only in Eastern Africa.
Science News Archive 2016 - Page 369
Browse by Month - 2016
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Finding the best seeds to match Africa's needs
A new coordinated soybean variety evaluation program aims to provide African farmers with high-yielding and disease-resistant seed options. The program, in partnership with the Syngenta Foundation and the University of Illinois, tests 25 varieties at 12 locations across Kenya, Malawi, and Zambia.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateFeb 18, 2016
RIT's Todd Pagano named outstanding undergraduate science educator
Todd Pagano, RIT's founding director of the Laboratory Science Technology program, has been named an outstanding undergraduate science educator. His American Chemical Society-approved program prepares deaf and hard-of-hearing students for careers in chemistry, with a success rate exceeding that of hearing peers.
Bowel obstruction more likely in certain hospitalized stroke patients
Research found that advanced age, black ethnicity, and pre-existing illnesses like cancer significantly increase the likelihood of bowel obstruction in hospitalized ischemic stroke patients. These complications can worsen recovery chances and lead to increased hospital length of stay and costs.
Getting the right amounts of sleep and regular exercise lower stroke risk
Research found that sleeping seven to eight hours per night reduces stroke risk by 25%, while excessive long sleep increases the risk by 146%. Regular exercise of 30-60 minutes, three to six times a week, also significantly decreases stroke risk. A computerized analysis of health data from 288,888 adults revealed these key findings.
Study reveals mechanism behind enzyme that tags unneeded DNA
Researchers at Princeton University have discovered the two-step process that activates Suv39h1, an essential enzyme responsible for organizing large portions of human DNA. The study reveals how the enzyme employs a positive feedback loop to chemically tag unnecessary regions of DNA.
Overdose deaths from common sedatives have surged, new study finds
A new study found that benzodiazepine overdose deaths increased more than four-fold from 0.58 deaths per 100,000 adults in 1996 to 3.14 deaths per 100,000 adults in 2013. The rate of overdose deaths leveled off since 2010, but for certain groups, such as those aged 65 and over and blacks and Hispanics, the rate continued to rise.
Longest-lasting stellar eclipse discovered
Astronomers have discovered a binary star system with the longest duration stellar eclipse, lasting three and a half years, and the longest period between eclipses in a binary system. The system, TYC 2505-672-1, is approximately 20 astronomical units from Earth and consists of two red giant stars.
Clot-busting therapy reduces mortality in deadliest form of stroke
A phase-3 clinical trial has demonstrated the effectiveness of clot-busting therapy in reducing mortality and post-stroke disability in patients with severe intraventricular hemorrhage. The treatment significantly reduced death rates by 10% and improved functional recovery in patients with larger clots.
Is there a digital hood?
A novel study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing reveals a dynamic interplay between physical and digital neighborhoods, where negative interactions are reproduced and amplified. The study found that social media can make tensions worse, but also limit positive opportunities.
New insights into epilepsy drug Retigabine
Researchers found that Retigabine enhances the resting potential open state stability of K7.2/K7.3 channels, increasing potassium ion flow and decreasing electrical signals. This may help refine pharmacotherapy for epilepsy and related disorders.
Stemming the flow: Stem cell study reveals how Parkinson's spreads
A stem cell study published in Stem Cell Reports has discovered that the GBA1 mutation creates problems with protein processing and recycling in cells, leading to an accumulation of alpha-synuclein. This excess protein is released into the brain, contributing to Parkinson's spread and symptoms.
Doughnut-shaped holes of killer proteins observed for the first time
Scientists have observed ring-shaped pores in the Bax protein, which perforates mitochondrial membranes and initiates cell death. This discovery may lead to a better understanding of apoptosis and its role in preventing cancer.
Study maps molecular signatures of HPV-positive throat cancer patients by smoking status
Researchers mapped molecular signatures in HPV-positive throat cancer patients based on smoking status. Heavy smokers had higher rates of mutations, including HLA-A and tobacco-exposure associated genes, which predicted poorer survival outcomes. These findings support more aggressive treatment for some patients.
Bariatric surgery before knee replacement cost-effective in improving outcomes in obese patients
A study finds that bariatric surgery prior to total knee replacement improves quality of life in morbidly obese patients with end-stage knee osteoarthritis. The research suggests a cost-effective option to reduce complications and costs associated with joint replacement, with a predicted cost per QALY of $13,910.
Study links health insurance status and head and neck cancer diagnoses, outcomes
Uninsured and Medicaid patients with head and neck cancer more likely to present with advanced tumors, experience higher mortality rates. Radiation therapy and surgery used less often for these patients.
Adimab scientists report the isolation of highly potent anti-Ebola virus antibodies from recent Zaire outbreak
Researchers at Adimab isolated a broad panel of neutralizing anti-Ebola virus antibodies from a survivor of the 2014 outbreak. The study highlights the speed and effectiveness of Adimab's single B cell isolation platform, which was able to identify over 300 monoclonal antibodies within weeks of receiving a blood sample.
Clot-busting drug reduces death risk in hemorrhagic stroke patients
A phase III clinical trial found that using a cardiac clot-busting drug to treat hemorrhagic strokes safely decreased the death rate by 10 percent. The study also showed that flushing unwanted blood from the brain was associated with better outcomes for many patients, with almost 50 percent living independently at 180 days.
Chemoradiation may increase survival for a subset of elderly head and neck cancer patients
A study published in Cancer found that combining chemotherapy with radiation therapy improves survival rates among a subset of elderly head and neck cancer patients, specifically those aged 71 to 79. This improvement was not previously shown in patients older than 70 years.
Gut microbes help sustain body growth despite malnutrition
A study showed that transferring healthy gut microbial species from children to mice can counter the negative effects of malnutrition, suggesting a possible therapeutic approach. Certain microbe species offset malnutrition's detrimental effects, enabling normal growth in undernourished children.
In a maddening subway crowd? Escape with Mobile Shopping Immersion
Research found that riders in crowded subway trains are about twice as likely to respond to mobile ads by making a purchase. The study examined responses to mobile ads of riders who took the subway in a large city and found that purchase rates increased significantly when there were more people per square meter.
SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateFeb 18, 2016
NASA infrared imagery shows wind shear affecting Tropical Cyclone Uriah
Tropical Cyclone Uriah's surface winds reached 30 meters per second near its southwestern quadrant, with tropical-storm-force winds extending up to 230 nautical miles from the center. NASA's RapidScat and AIRS instruments showed wind shear's effect on cloud top temperatures, indicating the potential for heavy rain generation.
Sensory loss affects 94 percent of older adults
A recent study found that sensory loss is a common issue among older adults, affecting 94 percent of those in the US. The most prevalent deficit was decreased sense of taste, with 48% of participants rated as poor. Understanding the underlying causes and developing prevention strategies are crucial for improving quality of life.
SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateFeb 18, 2016
Motion-controlled video games may improve real world skills
Researchers found that motion-controlled video game players outperformed those with push-button controllers and no training in real-world putting, suggesting a potential for these games to enhance fine motor coordination. Further research is needed to explore the effects of motion-controlled games on larger-motor coordination skills.
SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Gaming and Computer-Mediated Simulations·DateFeb 18, 2016
Diabetes expert warns paleo diet is dangerous and increases weight gain
A new study published in Nutrition and Diabetes journal found that low-carbohydrate, high-fat diets can lead to rapid weight gain and worsen glucose intolerance. The research suggests that fad diets like Paleo may not be suitable for people with pre-diabetes or diabetes.
After stroke, most patients prefer video conferencing for communication with doctors
New research from Northwell Health found that nearly 6 in 10 stroke patients would prefer video conferencing after hospital discharge. Patients under 55 unanimously accepted the technology, citing its personal and informative benefits. The study suggests video calls could reduce hospital readmissions and improve medication compliance.
Fiamma Straneo selected for prestigious Sverdrup Lecture
Fiamma Straneo has been chosen by the American Geophysical Union (AGU) for the Sverdrup Lecture, a top honor in ocean sciences. Her research focuses on the role of high-latitude oceans in climate change and ice sheet dynamics.
Rolling stones, turbulence connect evolution to physics
Research at Duke University reveals that larger rolling stones and turbulent eddies exhibit the same life span, travel distance, and number of revolutions as smaller counterparts. The findings demonstrate the constructal law's applicability to non-biological systems, challenging traditional views on evolution.
Imaging, not time, may determine who is right for stroke clot removal
Researchers found that brain imaging can accurately predict patient outcomes and identify those who may benefit from clot removal up to 18 hours after symptom onset. This approach could improve treatment eligibility and outcomes for ischemic stroke patients.
Closing PFO 'hole in the heart' may prevent strokes linked to this heart defect
Researchers studied 980 stroke survivors with PFO and found that closing the hole with a device reduced recurrent strokes by 56% compared to blood thinning medications. The device only prevented strokes related to PFO, which tend to be larger and on the edge of the brain.
Soilless farming suggested as a solution to food shortage in Qatar
Soilless farming proposed as a solution to Qatar's food shortage, increasing crop yield by 100 times compared to conventional farming. The system uses nutrient-enriched water and advanced hydroponics to provide reliable quantity and quality of crops, while reducing costs and environmental impact.
Protein structure illuminates how viruses take over cells
Researchers have determined the structure of a protein complex that lets viruses like HIV establish permanent infections in human cells. The new findings reveal a novel paradigm for retroviral DNA integration and provide insights into how viruses interact with host DNA.
Scientists discover bird blood cell which destroys fatal fungal infection
A team from the University of Sheffield has discovered a white blood cell in birds that can completely block the growth of Cryptococcus neoformans, a fungus that causes fatal infections in humans. The researchers found that this macrophage cell is able to destroy the fungus when it tries to invade the bird's body.
How hunter-gatherers preserved their food sources
Hunter-gatherer Aleuts on Sanak Island, Alaska, used a super-generalist diet to stabilize marine food webs. Their prey-switching behavior helped maintain ecosystem balance.
NASA sees Tropical Cyclone Winston intensifying near Tonga
Tropical Cyclone Winston is intensifying over the Southern Pacific Ocean, affecting Tonga with gale warnings issued for Niue and waters east of Vava'u. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center forecasts Winston to continue strengthening before turning west and heading north of Tonga.
Punchy proteins could help advance drug delivery, MEMS devices (video)
Scientists have found a way to control the sensitivity of coiled protein polymers called R bodies, making them unfurl at higher or lower pH levels. The proteins can burst open 60% of bacterial cells in acidic conditions, offering potential use in delivering molecules inside living systems and targeting biotechnology applications.
'Stroke camp' offers caregivers emotional support, physical relief and education
Caregivers who attended stroke camps reported feeling less alone (79%) and experiencing recharging effects (77%). The camps provided emotional support, physical relief and education to alleviate the strains of caregiving, including work impact and loss of time and freedom.
Common antibiotics may be linked to temporary mental confusion
A study published in Neurology found that certain antibiotics are associated with delirium, a condition characterized by mental confusion and hallucinations. Researchers identified three types of brain problems related to antibiotics, including seizures, psychosis, and impaired muscle coordination.
Enabling human-robot rescue teams
Researchers at MIT developed a new model to reduce unnecessary communication in human-robot teams, enabling them to work together more effectively. The system has been tested on computer simulations and shows promise for improving team performance.
Early gene flow from modern humans into Neanderthals
Researchers found genetic evidence of interbreeding between Neanderthals and modern humans, occurring around 100,000 years ago. This event likely occurred when some modern humans left Africa early and mixed with Neanderthals.
Transgenic sweet corn no more susceptible to Goss's wilt disease
A new study from the USDA-ARS found that transgenic sweet corn is not more susceptible to Goss's wilt disease, regardless of glyphosate treatment. In fact, glyphosate application increased yield in transgenic plants, potentially due to hormesis, a phenomenon where low doses of toxins stimulate plant growth.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalHortScience·DateFeb 17, 2016
What is risk of mental health, substance use disorders if you use marijuana?
A study of 34,653 US adults found that marijuana use was associated with an increased risk of developing alcohol and drug use disorders, including nicotine dependence, over a three-year period. However, the study did not find a link between marijuana use and mood or anxiety disorders.
Explaining autism
A study published in eLife identified a novel mechanism that causes abnormal brain development in autism, a group of highly inheritable behavioral disorders. The research reveals how a specific microRNA regulates gene expression to impair brain development, leading to the characteristic symptoms of autism.
Researchers find testosterone treatment improves sexual activity, walking, and mood in men over 65
Researchers found testosterone treatment benefits older men with low testosterone levels, improving sexual function, walking ability, and mood. The treatment also had no significant impact on energy but reduced depressive symptoms.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 17, 2016
Can ecotourism save endangered species?
A new study from Griffith University uses population viability modelling to quantify the impact of ecotourism on threatened species. For seven out of nine species analysed, ecotourism provides net conservation gains through measures like private reserves and habitat restoration.
New type of optical material discovered in the secret language of the mantis shrimp
Researchers from the University of Bristol have discovered a new way to create polarizers using the polarization of light in mantis shrimp. This innovative solution could lead to improved optical technologies, such as cameras and sunglasses.
New predictor of cancer
A new Northwestern Medicine study links a biological age discrepancy to increased cancer risk and mortality. The study found that individuals with an epigenetic age 2.2 years older than their chronological age have a higher risk of dying from cancer.
Neanderthals mated with modern humans much earlier than previously thought, study finds
Researchers found strong evidence of interbreeding between Neanderthals and modern humans, occurring tens of thousands of years earlier than previously thought. The team analyzed DNA from a specific Neanderthal individual, which showed human DNA, contradicting previous findings that dated such events to around 47,000-65,000 years ago.
How does the gut microbiota respond to iron replacement?
A study published in Gut journal found that oral and intravenous iron replacement therapies alter the gut microbiota significantly, particularly in Crohn's disease patients. These changes may lead to unstable bacterial ecosystems and increased risk of disease flares.
Marine virus outbreaks linked to coral bleaching
A study by Rice University and Oregon State University found that significant marine virus outbreaks may be associated with coral bleaching events, especially due to multiple environmental stresses. Viral groups, including a herpes-like virus, were detected in corals undergoing bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef.
Getting out of hospital bed for short periods soon after stroke can improve outcomes
A recent study found that short periods of mobilization soon after a stroke significantly improves recovery outcomes. The research suggests that session frequency is crucial, with too much mobility hindering progress.
New clues in the hunt for the sources of cosmic neutrinos
Researchers found intriguing contradictions between IceCube neutrino data and Fermi gamma-ray data, suggesting 'hidden accelerator' origins of high-energy cosmic neutrinos. Proton-photon interactions may block high-energy gamma rays from escaping, enabling the use of neutrinos as new probes of dense astrophysical environments.
The Lancet Infectious Diseases: New evidence suggests Zika virus can cross placental barrier, but link with microcephaly remains unclear
Researchers detected Zika virus in the amniotic fluid of two pregnant women whose fetuses had been diagnosed with microcephaly. However, further research is needed to understand the biological mechanism linking Zika virus to microcephaly.
Paleontologist Thomas Tütken receives ERC Consolidator grant
The European Research Council has granted Dr. Thomas Tütken a Consolidator Grant to investigate when the first land-based vertebrates began to use plants as a food source. By analyzing fossil teeth, he aims to reconstruct past food webs and extinction patterns of early land vertebrates.
New synthesis method developed at UEF opens up new possibilities for Li-ion batteries
Researchers at UEF have developed a new synthesis method for Li-ion batteries, which uses readily available materials, is safe to dispose of, and has significantly longer cycle lifetimes. The new method solves the low electric conductivity problem, promising applications in fast-charging electric buses and high-power hybrid vehicles.
Pairing pain medicine with metal ions to battle cancer
Researchers link NSAIDs with ruthenium and osmium ions to destroy cancer cells, while leaving most normal cells alone in lab tests. The combination shows promise as an effective treatment for ovarian cancer and potentially reduces side effects.
Neanderthals and modern H. sapiens crossbred over 100,000 years ago
Scientists discovered that Homo neanderthalensis and Homo sapiens interbred at least twice, 100,000 and 50,000 years ago. The findings contradict the previous understanding of Neanderthals' genetic makeup and suggest a more complex evolutionary history.
Bullied preemies may develop mental illness as adults: Study
Premature babies born with low birth weight are more likely to be bullied and develop depression, anxiety, ADHD, or antisocial behavior in adulthood. Childhood bullying significantly increases their risk for mental health problems, particularly anxiety disorders.
A new molecular alarm clock in vertebrates
Researchers discovered a gene, neuromedin U, that promotes wakefulness and suppresses sleep in zebrafish. The protein's function suggests it may be nature's alarm clock, helping to regulate the transition from nighttime sleep to daytime wakefulness.
A stake in innovation
A new study by MIT researchers found that constituency statutes in 34 US states increase patenting rates by at least 6.4% and citation counts per patent by 6.3%. This allows firms to take a longer view on innovation, prioritizing stakeholders' interests over short-term profits.