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Science News for May 23, 2016


Making virus sensors cheap and simple: New method detects single viruses in urine

Scientists at the University of Texas at Austin developed a new method to rapidly detect single viruses in urine, including Ebola, Zika, and HIV. The technique is highly selective and can be used with urine straight from a person or animal, unlike other methods that require higher concentrations or purification.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 23, 2016

Nanoscale Trojan horses treat inflammation

Researchers at Houston Methodist created nanoparticles called leukosomes that target inflamed tissues using a patient's own immune cells. The treatment shows promise in resolving inflammation and reversing the immune response, suggesting potential applications beyond cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

SourceHouston Methodist·JournalNature Materials·DateMay 23, 2016

How brick-makers can help butt out litter

Researchers at RMIT University have discovered that fired-clay bricks infused with just 1% cigarette butt content can significantly reduce energy needs, cut costs, and minimize environmental pollution. This innovative solution has the potential to offset global cigarette production and tackle the growing problem of littering.

SourceRMIT University·JournalWaste Management·DateMay 23, 2016

Can legumes solve environmental issues?

A new study published in Frontiers in Plant Science found that introducing legumes into agricultural systems can reduce nitrous oxide emissions by 20-30% and fertilizer use by 25-40%. The study also shows increased gross margins in forage agriculture systems, demonstrating the potential for both environmental and economic benefits.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateMay 23, 2016

Sylvester researchers identify novel treatment for aggressive form of breast cancer

Researchers at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center identified a novel treatment option for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) by targeting vitamin D and androgen receptors. This approach showed promising results in reducing the sustainability of cancer cells, offering new hope for patients with this aggressive form of breast cancer.

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·JournalBreast Cancer Research and Treatment·DateMay 23, 2016

Rice de-icer gains anti-icing properties

Researchers at Rice University have developed a graphene-based de-icer that can prevent ice formation above 7 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for large applications like aircraft and power lines. The material is also conductive and can be heated with electricity to melt ice and snow in colder conditions.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 23, 2016

Call to minimize drone impact on wildlife

University of Adelaide researchers recommend a 'code of best practice' to minimize the impact of drones on wildlife and mitigate potential disturbances. The guidelines cover various factors, including species, environment, and UAV operation, to ensure informed use of drones in field research.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 23, 2016

A peachy defense system for seeds

Researchers have developed a biodegradable seed coating that functions like nature's defense system, protecting plant seeds from insects without impairing germination. The coating has been shown to be effective against various cereal pests, including mealworms and beetles, but not against wheat weevils.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateMay 23, 2016

Programmable materials find strength in molecular repetition

Researchers create synthetic ring teeth proteins with varying repeats to achieve programmable materials with improved strength and flexibility. These self-healing polymers can be tailored for specific properties, such as elasticity and plasticity, making them suitable for various applications in textiles, cosmetics, and medicine.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 23, 2016

Low- and high-birthweight babies appear at increased risk for cardiovascular disease

Research found that both low- and high-birthweight babies are at increased risk for developing dangerous fat around major organs, leading to related problems such as insulin resistance and inflammation. The association between birthweight and future cardiovascular disease may not be easily modified by healthy eating and exercise.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateMay 23, 2016

In changing oceans, cephalopods are booming

A new study reveals that cephalopod populations have consistently increased over the past six decades, with diverse groups exhibiting remarkable long-term trends. The research suggests that cephalopods' rapid growth and adaptability may be key factors behind their proliferation in changing ocean environments.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 23, 2016

Using cellphone data to study the spread of cholera

Researchers at EPFL used mobile phone records to reconstruct the spread of a cholera epidemic in Senegal in 2005, revealing critical roles of human mobility patterns and sanitation infrastructure. The study's findings highlight measures to improve sanitation at transmission hotspots as key to reducing future outbreak progression.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 23, 2016

Scientists find sustainable solutions for oysters in the future by looking into the past

Researchers found that Native Americans' method of selecting and hand-collecting oysters likely resulted in more consistent average sizes and fewer very small individual oysters. This approach may inform modern-day oyster restoration efforts, which face challenges such as disease, poor water quality, and overfishing.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 23, 2016

Ivy's powerful grasp could lead to better medical adhesives, stronger battle armor

Researchers discovered that English ivy's adhesive is made of arabinogalactan proteins, which can be used to create strong bio-inspired adhesives for wound healing and surface-coating applications. The study also found that the glue has unique properties such as being resistant to moisture and environmental conditions.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 23, 2016

Listening to calls of the wild

A new study found that listening to human vocalizations helps infants form categories, while nonhuman primate vocalizations preserve their early link between signals and categorization. This research highlights the importance of language exposure in early development.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCognition·DateMay 23, 2016

Study shows disparities in treatment for children with traumatic brain injuries

A University of Washington study reveals significant barriers in accessing rehabilitation services for children with traumatic brain injuries from low-income households with limited English proficiency. The study found that less than 20% of providers accepted Medicaid and provided language interpretation, highlighting the need for incr...

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation·DateMay 23, 2016

Cutting-edge findings in cannabis research

A growing body of evidence suggests that cannabinoids have therapeutic potential for treating various conditions, including Parkinson's disease and gastrointestinal illnesses. The development of new pain therapies is crucial due to demographic changes and increasing life expectancy, which will lead to more patients with chronic pain.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalJournal of Basic and Clinical Physiology and Pharmacology·DateMay 23, 2016

Traveling wave drives magnetic particles

Scientists develop new method to control magnetic particles of two distinct sizes suspended in liquid, forming channels that drive small particles along, improving sorting and lab-on-a-chip device functionality.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateMay 23, 2016