A library for food security
A genetic library of cowpea varieties is being developed to improve crop resilience and yield. The library, which contains 6,000 samples, will help crop scientists make informed decisions using genetic information.
Science News for December 21, 2016
New drug target for inflammatory disease is all the RAGE
Researchers have discovered that the RAGE receptor plays a key role in regulating inflammation through its binding to the leukotriene B4 receptor 1. This interaction modifies LTB4-BLT1 signaling, which modulates the inflammatory response.
Scripps Florida scientists uncover cellular process behind premature aging
Researchers found a balance between two genes, spns1 and atp6v0ca, that maintains normal cell function. Disrupting one gene can induce premature aging, while the other can suppress degradation, extending lifespan in zebrafish.
NASA spots Tropical Depression 30W form in Northwestern Pacific
Tropical Depression 30W has formed over the Northwestern Pacific Ocean with strong thunderstorms and a concentrated area of cold cloud top temperatures. The storm is moving west-northwest at 9.2 mph and is expected to intensify into a typhoon by Dec. 24.
Newly discovered mechanism in cells can regulate the immune system
Scientists from the Niels Bohr Institute have identified a new way to control the production of important proteins that regulate the immune system. The discovery could provide a new opportunity to fight diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer's, and diabetes by controlling the cell's genetic response.
New appropriate use criteria for coronary revascularization released
The American College of Cardiology released updated appropriate use criteria for performing coronary revascularization in patients with acute coronary syndromes. The criteria provide a framework for clinicians to evaluate therapies and improve patient outcomes by facilitating shared decision making between patients and providers.
SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateDec 21, 2016
Recovery from brain injury and better sleep go hand in hand
A new study shows that recovering from traumatic brain injury (TBI) and improving sleep quality occur in parallel. As patients regained consciousness, their sleep-wake cycles also improved.
Blood test for prion disease could make blood supply safer
A reliable blood test can identify prion disease before symptoms appear, allowing for non-invasive diagnosis and potentially preventing transmission through blood transfusions. Researchers successfully detected abnormal proteins in the blood of presymptomatic donors with 100% accuracy.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 21, 2016
New ultrasound technique is first to image inside live cells
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have developed a nanoscale ultrasound technique that can see inside individual living cells without damaging them. This breakthrough method could rival optical super-resolution techniques, which won the 2014 Nobel Prize for Chemistry, by using shorter-than-optical wavelengths of sound.
Vitamin D improves gut flora and metabolic syndrome
Researchers discovered that vitamin D deficiency contributes to metabolic syndrome progression in mice by disrupting gut bacteria balance. Vitamin D supplementation improves metabolic syndrome outcomes by recovering gut bacteria balance and reducing blood sugar levels.
Live cell imaging using a smartphone
Researchers at Uppsala University have developed a cost-effective method for live cell imaging using smartphones, enabling laboratories worldwide to study cellular responses to treatments. The innovative system utilizes 3D-printed parts and off-the-shelf electronics, providing excellent cell culture conditions and high-resolution imaging.
Ultra-small nanocavity advances technology for secure quantum-based data encryption
A new type of light-enhancing optical cavity has been developed, representing a step toward brighter single-photon sources. This breakthrough could help propel quantum-based encryption and secure networks.
New approach captures the energy of slow motion
A new concept harnesses low-frequency mechanical energy to generate electricity, improving performance at lower frequencies than existing devices. The device, called an ionic diode, operates at one-tenth Hertz and has a higher peak power density compared to piezoelectric generators.
Food supplement may be key to treatment of rare disease
Researchers at Tel Aviv University found that phosphatidylserine treatment can enhance the stability of microtubular highways in neurons and improve cargo movement along these pathways. The study suggests that this supplement may be instrumental in reversing detrimental effects of Familial Dysautonomia.
Fish sperm race for reproductive success
Researchers found that dominant Arctic char produce sperm swimming faster in diluted ovarian fluid, while subordinate males produce faster-swimming sperm in water. These adaptations may give them an edge in competition for mates.
Study examines melanoma incidence, death
A new study reports an estimated 76,380 Americans will be diagnosed with melanoma in 2016, with current lifetime risk being 1 in 54 for invasive melanoma. The overall burden of disease is increasing, with rising rates and higher mortality rates, exceeding the previous estimate of 10,130 deaths
The luxury of causality: Parallel Intelligence, a proposed move toward the intelligent future
The proposed Parallel Intelligence framework enables machines to learn from real-world interactions, moving beyond traditional AI approaches that rely on big data. This new paradigm allows software to learn from millions of scenarios and make decisions in parallel with physical systems.
SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateDec 21, 2016
Rejuvenating the brain's disposal system
A new tissue culture system has revealed that microglia from aged brains are engulfing amyloid plaques on site, with young microglia secreting factors to rejuvenate older cells. The discovery highlights a potential strategy for removing amyloid plaques and improving cognition in Alzheimer's disease.
Graphene able to transport huge currents on the nano scale
Researchers at Vienna University of Technology demonstrated that graphene can transport extremely high currents when impacted by highly charged xenon ions. The material's rapid electronic response allows it to withstand extreme currents without damage, making it a promising candidate for ultra-fast electronics applications.
JILA atomic clock mimics long-sought synthetic magnetic state
Researchers at JILA used an advanced atomic clock to mimic the behavior of crystalline solids, demonstrating a novel 'off-label' use for atomic clocks. The study reveals potential applications in spintronics and quantum computing.
Nanoarray sniffs out and distinguishes multiple diseases
A team of scientists has created a device that screens breath samples to classify and diagnose several types of diseases, including kidney cancer and Parkinson's disease. The breathalyzer uses an array of nanoscale sensors to detect unique volatile chemical components in exhaled breath.
Study finds substantial rate of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy when procedure not indicated
A study found that surgeons' recommendations play a crucial role in determining the rate of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) in breast cancer patients. Among patients without clinical indications, CPM use was substantial when patients did not receive a recommendation against it, but low when they did.
A fertilizer dearth foiled animal evolution for eons?
A 3.5-billion-year-old phosphorus surplus coincided with the emergence of complex life on Earth, suggesting a key role in animal evolution. The discovery was made by analyzing sedimentary rock records from ancient coastal zones.
New Special Issue on digestive tumors in Latin America
The new Special Issue addresses topics in epidemiology, basic science, and policy, providing reliable information on digestive cancers in Latin America. Key findings include the rising incidence of gastric cancer and the need for awareness, with five articles from experts in the region.
Watching water freeze (video)
A team of scientists from France has developed a method to visualize ice crystals in three dimensions as they grow, providing new insights into their formation process. By using confocal laser scanning microscopy and image analysis, the researchers can capture rapid images of ice crystals growing and measure their expansion rates.
Fewer children per man than per woman
Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research found that German men have fewer children than women and have them later in life. Eastern Germany's male birthrate is particularly low due to a surplus of men in reproductive age.
Chemistry research breakthrough that could improve nuclear waste recycling technologies
Researchers at The University of Manchester have made a major step forward in nuclear waste recycling technologies by describing the electronic structure of uranium nitride compounds. A family of 15 complexes was synthesized, and advanced techniques were used to gain insight into their electronic states. This research has the potential...
Study: Children can 'catch' social bias through non-verbal signals expressed by adults
Research from the University of Washington suggests that preschool-aged children can learn bias through nonverbal signals displayed by adults, such as tone of voice or facial expressions. Children are likely to generalize this learned bias to others, potentially leading to group bias and prejudice.
Challenges remain in HIV care in Africa
A new study highlights the difficult decisions healthcare providers face when treating HIV-positive patients with seizures, where medication options are limited. Seizures are a common symptom in advanced stage HIV, affecting up to 11% of those undiagnosed and untreated.
Store and supply: How the brain saves time
Neurons in the brain store immature RNA copies that are pre-manufactured and only need splicing upon stimulation, significantly reducing production time and enabling rapid adaptation. This discovery reveals a new regulatory mechanism for brain plasticity processes.
New drug could help prevent artery disease in high-risk patients
Researchers at the University of Missouri School of Medicine have identified a protein inhibitor drug that prevents blood vessel blockages, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes. The study found that PAI-039 decreased blockage formation by about 50 percent, producing a powerful effect in preventing vascular diseases.
Indiana University researchers launch tool to understand spread of fake news
Hoaxy is a new tool that visualizes how claims in the news and fact checks of those claims spread online through social networks. The tool helps understand the mechanisms behind fake news spread and can be used by users to evaluate evidence about a claim and its rebuttal.
Astrophotography as a gateway to science
UC Riverside scientists created astrophotography classes for non-science students, resulting in improved understanding of telescopes and cameras, as well as renewed interest in astronomy. The cost-effective courses also encouraged students to take up astrophotography as a hobby, opening the path to future amateur astronomers.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalInternational Journal of STEM Education·DateDec 21, 2016
Buddhism along the Silk Roads
The project investigates Buddhist networks in Eastern Central Asia from the 6th-14th centuries, exploring transregional links between China, India, Tibet, and Central Asian regions. The team will analyze manuscripts and conduct field research to understand how Buddhism spread and evolved.
High-severity wildfires complicate natural regeneration for California conifers
A study in California found that high-severity wildfires hinder natural conifer regeneration, with only 60% of plots showing seedling growth five to seven years after fire. A new tool developed by researchers can help foresters prioritize which lands to replant and when.
One more piece in the puzzle of liver cancer identified
A new study reveals that RAF1 acts as a negative regulator of hepatocellular carcinoma, while promoting growth in inflammatory cells. This finding highlights the need for a more thorough understanding of the disease at the molecular level to design novel therapies.
Report finds additional radioactive materials in gas-well drill cuttings
Research found elevated levels of uranium-234, thorium-230, lead-210 and polonium-210 in drill cuttings from Marcellus Shale wells. The study suggests that at low pH, uranium isotopes can leach into the environment from landfills.
Dyslexics show a difference in sensory processing
Research reveals that individuals with dyslexia have a fundamental brain difference in sensory perception, leading to difficulties in processing speech and written words. Brain activity remains high in both cases, suggesting that they do not adapt as much, while those with better reading skills show greater adaptation levels.
RNA pathway plays key role in health, lifespan, fly study shows
A recent study by Brown University researchers has found that the RNA pathway operates in a non-reproductive body tissue, called the fat body, in flies and helps sustain life. The study also shows that blocking components of the pathway leads to increased DNA damage, shorter lifespan and poor health.
UTHealth research could lead to blood test to detect Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease
Researchers at UTHealth have developed a blood test that can detect Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease with 100% sensitivity and specificity. The test uses a protein misfolding cyclic amplification assay to identify prions, which are infectious proteins responsible for the disease.
SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 21, 2016
Artificial leaf as mini-factory for drugs
Chemical engineers develop prototype reactor shaped like a leaf to capture sunlight and generate chemical reactions for drug production. The LSC material enhances the reaction process, increasing productivity by 40% even on cloudy days.
SourceEindhoven University of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 21, 2016
UTHealth's Wolinsky is senior author of paper on new therapy for primary MS
Researchers have made significant strides in treating primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) with ocrelizumab, a medication that targets immune cells contributing to the disease. The study, led by UTHealth's Jerry Wolinsky, shows substantial improvement in slowing disability progression and reducing new lesion formation.
SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 21, 2016
Survey: Cardiology workforce is aging, male-dominated
The American College of Cardiology's survey reveals that cardiologists are highly satisfied with their careers, but women face disparities in advancement opportunities and family responsibilities. The workforce is also aging, with a greater percentage of practicing physicians over 60, and private practice settings have decreased.
SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateDec 21, 2016
Biomarker for oxidative stress plays a major role in hepatic inflammation
A new study identifies malondialdehyde as a key player in hepatic inflammation and finds it can be neutralized by specific natural antibodies. The research provides a promising approach towards a potential therapy for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalHepatology·DateDec 21, 2016
133 new species described by the California Academy of Sciences in 2016
The California Academy of Sciences has added 133 new plant and animal species to the world's family tree, including a deep-sea fish, sharks, ants, beetles, birds, and coral. These discoveries were made by over a dozen scientists and collaborators across five continents and three oceans.
Calculating 1 billion plasma particles in a supercomputer
Researchers at National Institutes of Natural Sciences successfully simulated a plasma blob's movement with unprecedented accuracy, calculating 1 billion particles. This breakthrough allows for finely detailed analyses of the plasma's internal structure and temperature distribution, greatly improving prediction accuracy.
'Glue' that makes plant cell walls strong could hold the key to wooden skyscrapers
Researchers have solved a long-standing mystery of how key sugars in cells bind to form strong, indigestible materials. Cellulose induces xylan to untwist itself and straighten out, allowing it to attach itself to the cellulose molecule, forming a 'glue' that makes very strong structures.
School attendance improves when girls are given free sanitary pads and puberty lessons
Researchers found that providing free sanitary pads and puberty education to girls in Uganda improves their school attendance levels by 17%, compared to schools without such interventions. This simple yet effective approach can have major long-term economic implications for women's education and empowerment.
New insight for developing more effective drugs to combat inflammatory bowel disease
A team of biomedical scientists at UC Riverside has identified a specific receptor, TNFR2, that induces M cells, which promote inflammation and worsen IBD. Targeting only this receptor may lead to more effective therapies for IBD patients.
Penn reseachers given $12 million from NIH establish pancreas research program
The Human Pancreas Analysis Program (HPAP) aims to study diabetes and pancreatic islets with unparalleled resolution. The program will procure and phenotype pancreatic tissues from individuals with or at risk for Type 1 diabetes.
The last frontier
Kosik's research suggests that dendrites use a relatively small number of RNAs to leverage increased dynamic range, allowing for sparse coding and plasticity. This enables the brain to process incoming information more efficiently and adapt to new experiences.
Cancer cells' transition can drive tumor growth, UF Health researchers find
Researchers have discovered how cancer cells convert into blood vessel-supporting cells that drive tumor growth. The process of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) sustains blood vessels and fuels tumor expansion.
Researchers reveal the secret code language of bacteria
Bacteria have been found to use a code language consisting of cryptic palindromes to determine whether to enter a dormant state or be interrupted by antibiotics. This discovery may help develop new antibiotics by understanding the code language used by pathogenic bacteria.
Why big brains are rare
Researchers found that the largest-brained species of electric fish have the highest demand for oxygen, while the smallest-brained species have the lowest. This suggests that large brains can only evolve if constraints on energy intake are lifted or alternative solutions are found to accommodate the increased energy demands.
Police-led addiction program in Gloucester shows first-year success, BU study finds
A widely publicized initiative has placed over 95% of individuals with substance-use disorders into detoxification or treatment programs. The Gloucester Police Department's Angel Program has filled a needed gap in accessing substance-use treatment services, with 376 people seeking help in the first year.
The challenge of defining maturity when the brain never stops changing
Research shows that brain maturation varies by individual and region, making it difficult to pinpoint a static baseline for maturity. Leah Somerville highlights the importance of considering brain development in policy-making decisions.
Study finds state tort reforms linked to decreases in radiography utilization
New research from the Harvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute finds that state tort reforms are associated with a decrease in physician ordering of radiographs. The study examined the impact of liability pressure on overall imaging use and found that indirect tort reforms have a stronger effect on radiography orders than direct reforms.
SourceHarvey L. Neiman Health Policy Institute·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateDec 21, 2016
Stressed snakes strike first
A team of scientists led by Mark Herr found that cottonmouths with high baseline levels of corticosterone were more likely to strike during encounters. The study suggests that protecting snake habitats may reduce the incidence of snakebites and that a snake's striking behavior is related to its baseline level of stress.
Could Rudolph and friends help to slow down our warming climate?
A study found that reindeer grazing in the Arctic tundra can increase surface albedo, leading to a decrease in net radiation and a potential cooling effect on climate. The researchers used land surface computer modeling and field measurements to estimate the impact of reindeer activity on vegetation characteristics.
New disease could signal hope for sufferers of brain aging conditions
Experts have discovered a new genetic disease that causes neurodegeneration and accelerates brain cell death. The disease, ataxia oculomotor apraxia type XRCC1, is caused by a genetic mutation that disrupts DNA repair mechanisms.
Light powers new chemistry for old enzymes
Princeton researchers have discovered a method to expand enzyme reactivity through light activation, allowing access to high selectivities. They successfully catalyzed non-natural reactions, including dehalogenation reactions, by irradiating enzymes with light.
Flame retardant exposure linked to income, BMI and household smoking
A study finds that lower median income within a neighborhood, lower BMI, and smoking in the household correspond to higher levels of flame retardants in children's blood. The researchers speculate that socioeconomic disparities will increase over time as wealthier families replace older products with flame retardant-free ones.
HIV patients have nearly twice the heart attack risk
A new Northwestern University study reveals that HIV patients have a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes, even when the virus is undetectable in their blood. The risk is estimated to be about 50% higher than predicted by current calculators.
Scientists crack genetic code determining leaf shape in cotton
Researchers discovered the DNA sequence responsible for determining leaf shapes in upland cotton, leading to potential improvements in crop yields and farmer costs. The study found that plants with leaves having five deep lobes, like okra, are less susceptible to boll rot and offer better dispersal for pesticides.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 21, 2016
Toeing the line: Study finds brain cells that signal path of travel
Researchers at the University of California San Diego have discovered neurons in the subiculum area of the brain that encode an animal's current axis of travel. These 'axis-tuned' cells fire when the animal travels in either direction along a single line, allowing it to mentally group different locations and navigate complex routes.
Study finds 'striking' use of double mastectomy
A new study found that nearly half of early-stage breast cancer patients considered having a double mastectomy, despite knowing it offers little benefit. Patients were unaware of the surgery's risks and benefits, with many choosing it for peace of mind.
Novel technique helps ID elusive molecules
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a novel technique to identify carbohydrates, which play a vital role in life processes. The new method, called 'sequencing by recognition,' uses electricity to release current spikes that can be measured and analyzed to identify specific carbohydrate molecules with high accuracy.
JDR studies examine the trends and impact of NIH research funding to dental schools
Two studies examine NIH funding to US dental institutions between 2005-2014, revealing a 70% investment by NIDCR, with funding for oral cavity cancer research decreasing after 2009. A perspective piece highlights the need for increased focus on rectifying the gap in oral health research funding.
SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateDec 21, 2016
TSRI scientists show how drug binds with 'hidden pocket' on flu virus
Researchers at TSRI reveal precisely how popular flu treatment Arbidol works, stopping the virus from entering host cells. The study's findings could guide the development of future broad-spectrum therapeutics against influenza virus.
SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 21, 2016
Tattoos mark the spot -- for surgery -- then disappear
Scientists have developed a temporary tattoo ink that marks the spot for future treatment in skin cancer patients. The new ink glows under specific light conditions and can disappear after a period of time, eliminating the need for laser or surgical removal.
Huntington's disease linked to dysfunction of brain structure
Researchers identified a link between Huntington's disease and dysfunction of the subthalamic nucleus, leading to progressive loss of nerve cells and debilitating symptoms. The study suggests that early problems in the subthalamic nucleus contribute to the development of the disease.
Inside the world of cell signaling: A G-protein breakthrough
Researchers have developed small proteins called peptides that selectively block a certain type of G-protein signaling. These peptides will be used to study this process in cells and develop potential drugs for diseases involving abnormal G-protein signaling, including melanoma.
SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 21, 2016
Speeding up comprehension with grasping actions
Grasping actions have been shown to accelerate the brain's comprehension process, allowing for a faster interpretation of words. This new method could be used in therapies for aphasia, a language disorder affecting stroke patients, by utilizing motor training through grip movements to strengthen word recognition.
Hawaii's newest species named in honor of President Obama
Scientists have discovered a new species of coral-reef fish, Tosanoides obama, that lives exclusively within the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. The fish is special because it is the only known species of coral-reef fish endemic to the Monument.
Rat study provides insights on tendon overuse injuries
Researchers found rotator cuff tendon overuse leads to degeneration of the shoulder tendon and osteoarthritis-like changes to neighboring cartilage. The study may help clinicians determine optimal treatment for tendon overuse injuries, reducing further damage.
Threading the RSV vaccine needle
Researchers at Emory University School of Medicine have engineered a live attenuated RSV vaccine candidate that is highly effective in mice and cotton rats. The vaccine, called OE4, induces high levels of antibody production while maintaining its immunogenicity, making it a promising candidate for further clinical investigation.
NEJM reports on study of waitlisted opioid-dependent adults
A study by Stacey Sigmon found that an Interim Buprenorphine Treatment regimen significantly reduced illicit opioid use and psychological symptoms in waitlisted adults. The treatment involved daily monitoring calls and bi-weekly clinic visits, resulting in excellent adherence rates.
SourceUniversity of Vermont College of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 21, 2016
Molecular Velcro boosts microalgae's potential in biofuel, industrial applications
MSU scientists engineer molecular Velcro into cyanobacteria, enhancing their biofuel potential and ability to form artificial microbial communities. The technology may improve the efficiency of harvesting algae and reduce production costs for sustainable biofuels.
New instrumentation for research
The DFG is funding 12 projects to develop new instrumentation technologies for basic research. A new X-ray system will be built at the Technical University of Kaiserslautern, enabling researchers to analyze reinforced concrete components in unprecedented detail.
Magnetic force pulls baby reef fish back home
A groundbreaking study has shown that baby reef fish possess an internal magnetic 'compass' that enables them to swim towards their home reef at night. The researchers, led by Professor Mike Kingsford, found that the tiny Cardinal fish can use their magnetic senses to orient themselves in total darkness.
Cerium hexaboride challenges physicists to come up with new theory
Researchers discovered unusual phenomena in a single cerium hexaboride crystal, exceeding theoretical expectations and sparking new research directions. The study offers a way to test the validity of accepted scientific theories, emphasizing the importance of recognizing fundamental results over practical applications.
Distinctive brain pattern may underlie dyslexia
A new study suggests that reduced neural adaptation in people with dyslexia may underlie their difficulty learning to read. This reduced plasticity affects not only reading but also other perceptual tasks, indicating a broader impact on the brain.
Analysis examines characteristics of users of online infidelity matchmaking
Researchers studied data from Ashley Madison to identify key characteristics of its users. Income proved to be a significant factor, indicating the service behaves like a luxury good. Religiosity also showed a notable correlation with user spending rates, decreasing by 18% for every additional religious congregation per 1,000 people.
NASA looks at rainfall rates in Tropical Cyclone Yvette
Tropical Cyclone Yvette formed in the Indian Ocean with intense thunderstorms and heavy rainfall rates of over 127 mm per hour. The GPM satellite revealed the 3D structure of precipitation in storms near the center of circulation, with some storm tops reaching altitudes above 17 km.
Food withdrawal results in stabilization of important tumor suppressor
Researchers found that food withdrawal leads to the accumulation of p53 protein in liver cells, playing a crucial role in metabolic adaptation to starvation. This discovery may pave the way for new treatments for patients with metabolic or cancer-related disorders.
Shortened treatment for middle ear infection is less effective than standard course
A new study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that a shortened five-day antimicrobial treatment regimen for middle ear infections in young children is less effective than the standard 10-day regimen. The study also failed to show a significant reduction in antibiotic resistance threat.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 21, 2016
Scientists build bacteria-powered battery on single sheet of paper
Researchers at Binghamton University have created a bacteria-powered battery on a single sheet of paper that can power disposable electronics. The device is self-sustained and requires minimal fabrication time and cost.
Impact of climate change on microbial biodiversity
Research suggests that climate change affects microbial biodiversity most strongly in natural environments and those with high nutrient levels. The study found that warming temperatures lead to a decline in biodiversity as enrichment increases.
Routine drug screening should be part of primary care settings, UCLA study recommends
A UCLA study found high rates of moderate-to-high drug use in East Los Angeles (19.4%) and Tijuana (5.7%). Screening could steer people away from risky drug use with just a few minutes of counseling.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalSubstance Use & Misuse·DateDec 21, 2016
Reducing antibiotic duration does more harm than good for ear infections in young children
A landmark trial found that shortened antibiotic courses for ear infections in young children (9-23 months) resulted in more treatment failures and adverse events without reducing antibiotic resistance. The study showed a significantly higher risk of recurrent infections when residual fluid was present after treatment.
SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 21, 2016
Study shows discrimination interacts with genetics and impacts health
A University of Florida study found that discrimination interacts with certain genetic variants to alter blood pressure and increase the risk of hypertension. Vicarious unfair treatment, or experiencing discrimination through close friends and family, also had a significant impact on stress levels.
Driverless platoons
MIT engineers analyzed a simple vehicle-platooning scenario and found that relatively simple scheduling policies can save fuel and minimize delays for autonomous vehicle fleets. The findings may also apply to conventional long-distance trucking and ride-sharing services.
Penn: Epigenetic change ties mitochondrial dysfunction to tumor progression
Researchers at Penn have identified a mechanism by which mitochondria can drive changes in nuclear gene expression associated with tumor progression. The epigenetic process involves a protein triggered by mitochondrial oxidative or metabolic stress, leading to reduced cancer gene expression when blocked.
Music in the brain: The first imaging genetic study linking dopaminergic genes to music
A new imaging genetics study has linked dopamine genes to music's impact on mood and emotions. The study found that a functional variation in the DRD2 gene affects how music influences mood states and brain activity.