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Science News for June 20, 2016


Watching the luminescent gene switch

Researchers from Hokkaido University developed a new method to track the switching on and off of circadian genes in freely moving mice, enabling the monitoring of gene expression patterns in specific tissues. This technique has significant implications for understanding clock gene function and its effects on mouse behavior.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 20, 2016

Major support for cataract study

Researchers led by Salil Lachke are investigating cellular processes controlling protein production in eye lenses to prevent cataracts. The team aims to build a biological gene regulatory circuit and understand the role of RNA-binding proteins in lens development.

AFib patients at risk for stroke often prescribed aspirin instead of anticoagulants

A study published in Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that more than one-third of atrial fibrillation patients with an intermediate-to-high-risk of stroke are prescribed aspirin instead of oral anticoagulants. This discrepancy may be due to misconceptions about aspirin's efficacy compared to oral anticoagulants.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJun 20, 2016

How can a family function better? Get outside together

Researchers at the University of Illinois have found that spending time in nature together as a family can restore attention, reduce irritation, and promote self-control, leading to better family relationships. Regular family-based nature activities can also foster a sense of identity and belonging within the family.

Aspirin versus blood thinners in atrial fibrillation patients with stroke risk

Researchers found nearly 40% of AF patients at intermediate to high risk for stroke treated with aspirin alone, despite previous data showing blood thinners more beneficial. The study highlights the need for cardiology specialists to adhere to standardized recommendations regarding the use of oral blood thinners.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJun 20, 2016

Controlling light: New protection for photosynthetic organisms

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have discovered a previously unknown strategy that allows photosynthetic organisms like Chlorobaculum tepidum to survive exposure to oxygen, which could harm them. The 'photosynthetic volume control' mechanism involves two normal amino acids and works by dissipating excess energy as har...

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2016

Refugees can offer economic boost to their host countries

A recent study by UC Davis and UN World Food Program found that refugees receiving cash aid can create significant economic benefits for their host countries. The researchers discovered that each additional refugee increased local income by up to 96% in one of the camps, with most of this money spent on goods and services outside the c...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2016

Disney princesses: Not brave enough

A recent study from Brigham Young University reveals that preschoolers exposed to Disney Princess culture are more susceptible to limiting female gender-stereotypical behavior, which can be detrimental in the long term. However, the study also suggests that princesses can provide a counterbalance to hyper-masculine media for boys.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalChild Development·DateJun 20, 2016

Tiny alpaca-derived antibodies point to targets preventing viral infection

Researchers have developed a method using tiny alpaca-derived nanobodies to identify and target specific proteins involved in viral infections. By using these molecules to perturb cellular processes, scientists can tease apart the roles individual proteins play in disease, leading to potential new treatments for infectious diseases.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJun 20, 2016

London bee tracking project begins

A London bee tracking project has begun, releasing 500 tagged bees to study their behavior and interactions with flowers in urban gardens. The project aims to understand the bees' preferred patches and favourite flowers, rewarding participants with prizes for identifying the most flowers visited by individual bees.

Rice University lab synthesizes new cancer fighter

Researchers at Rice University have synthesized a new cancer-fighting compound called Thailanstatin A, which targets the spliceosome, a complex of proteins and ribonucleoproteins that regulate DNA splicing. The compound has shown promise in preclinical studies and could potentially be used to develop new therapies for cancer.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 20, 2016

Simple reward-based learning suits adolescents best

A new study published in PLOS Computational Biology found that adolescents are more receptive to rewards than punishments of equal value. The researchers suggest using positive reinforcement methods in education and parenting to encourage desired behavior, as reward-based systems may be more effective for this age group.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJun 20, 2016

Invasive species could cause billions in damages to agriculture

The study analyzed 1,297 invasive insect pests on 124 countries, finding the US, China, India, and Brazil to be the highest potential cost impacters. Smaller developing countries like those in sub-Saharan Africa are disproportionately vulnerable due to their reliance on agriculture.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2016

UTSW study finds new enzyme with structure that could explain how heart can beat optimally

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center identified a previously unrecognized enzyme, MLCK4, that could optimize contraction and prevent heart failure. The study provides the first three-dimensional structure for any member of the MLCK family and sheds light on the optimal phosphorylation level for normal heart function.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2016

Robotic motion planning in real-time

A new computer processor designed specifically for robotic motion planning can plan movements up to 10,000 times faster than existing approaches while using significantly less power. This breakthrough technology has the potential to revolutionize robotics and automation in manufacturing environments.

Illuminating detection of deep cancers

A team of Tokyo Tech and UEC researchers developed a luciferin analog, AkaLumine-HCl, that produces near-infrared bioluminescence with improved tissue-penetration efficiency. This allows for highly sensitive deep-tissue imaging in animal experiments, including lung cancer models.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 20, 2016

New Baylor research identifies keys to managing innovators

A new study from Baylor University's Hankamer School of Business reveals that highly innovative individuals can be committed to both their organizations and professions, especially when they understand their role in the organization's success. The study suggests design policies and procedures that support creative work styles and empha...

SourceBaylor University·JournalResearch Policy·DateJun 20, 2016

Third to half of UK population lives with chronic pain

A recent analysis found that approximately 43% of the UK population, around 28 million adults, suffer from chronic pain. The prevalence is expected to rise as the population ages, with older individuals being more likely to experience long-term pain. Women are also more likely to be affected by chronic pain than men.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open·DateJun 20, 2016

RedEye could let your phone see 24-7

Researchers at Rice University developed RedEye, a technology that can provide computers with continuous vision, enabling wearables to see and remember what their owners need. By analyzing analog signals in real-time, RedEye improves energy efficiency and presents unique privacy advantages.

Shedding light on an assistant protein

Researchers at the University of Würzburg have developed a new fluorescence probe to visualize the motions of Hsp90, an essential chaperone that assists numerous proteins. The technique reveals synchronized structural changes within the protein, shedding light on its healing powers and potential connection to diseases.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJun 20, 2016

How a cold gets into cells

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have developed a new method to analyze the process of RNA transfer from viruses into human cells. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new drugs that prevent this precise RNA transfer.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateJun 20, 2016

Newer tests could cut hep C diagnosis steps in half

Researchers found that several commercially available tests for hepatitis C virus core antigen are highly sensitive and specific, potentially replacing the current two-test screening process with a single test. This could streamline care in low- and middle-income countries where HCV is prevalent, but patients are often lost to follow-up.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 20, 2016

Silencing of gene affects people's social lives, study shows

A recent study by researchers at the University of Georgia found that silencing of the OXT gene may impact social behaviors, including recognizing emotional states of others. Participants with higher methylation levels of the OXT gene showed difficulty in describing facial emotions and had increased anxiety about relationships.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2016

Breast cancer cells use newfound pathway to survive low oxygen levels in tumors

Researchers discovered a new signaling pathway that helps cancer cells cope with hypoxia, allowing them to thrive in low-oxygen environments. The study found that the enzyme protein-tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) regulates tumor response to hypoxia by controlling oxygen consumption, potentially leading to novel treatments.

Low attention control in early adolescence is a genetic risk factor for anxiety disorders

Researchers at the University of Texas at Arlington found a significant genetic link between low attention control in early adolescence and four distinct anxiety symptoms. Low attention control is also linked to increased risk of depression, drug dependence, suicidal behavior, and educational underachievement.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalJournal of Research on Adolescence·DateJun 20, 2016