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Science News for May 5, 2016


That new baby isn't imitating you

Researchers tested young infants' imitation of facial and hand gestures, finding no evidence of innate ability to copy adults. Babies may learn to imitate through observation of others mimicking them.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 5, 2016

Gene cascade specifies 2 distinct neuron sets expressing Nplp1

Researchers identified two distinct neuronal cell lineages expressing Nplp1, driven by different spatiotemporal cues and converging on a common terminal selector cascade. The study provides new insights into neuronal cell fate specification and the role of feed-forward loops in regulating gene expression during development.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 5, 2016

MIT scientists compile list of potential gases to guide search for life on exoplanets

A new approach aims to identify planets orbiting nearby stars that support life by focusing on creating a comprehensive list of molecules in their atmospheres. Researchers have searched for thousands of potentially biogenic gas molecules, sparking new research into identifying larger molecules and their potential as signs of life.

Droughts can have detrimental impacts on aquatic invertebrates

A study found that temporary streams suffer from a significant decline in invertebrate species during droughts, with only three species remaining after a long drought and 24 species after shorter dry spells. The research highlights the potential consequences of climate change-related increases in drought length on aquatic ecosystems.

SourceWiley·JournalFreshwater Biology·DateMay 5, 2016

Deep male voices not so much sexy as intimidating

Research found that deep-pitched male voices are seen as dominant by other males but have a smaller impact on attracting females. Human male traits imply physical aggression and formidability, providing competitive advantages in fighting or threatening other men more than they help attract women.

T cells use 'handshakes' to sort friends from foes

Researchers developed DNA-based tension sensors to study T cell interactions. They found that T cells use precise mechanical tugs to test whether a cell is a friend or foe, with stronger tugs indicating a foreign invader. This discovery could aid in the development of immune therapies for cancer and treatments for autoimmune diseases.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 5, 2016

Our personal skin microbiome is surprisingly stable

A recent study found that human skin microbial communities remain highly stable over time, retaining unique signatures and resisting external perturbations. However, stability varied across individuals and sites, with oily areas showing more consistent bacterial and fungal communities.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateMay 5, 2016

Role of poly(A) tails in mitosis

A new study by the IBS Center for RNA Research has found that poly(A) tail length is not linearly correlated with translation efficiency in somatic cells. The researchers used two techniques to compare poly(A) tail length and translation efficiency, finding a correlation between the two in a limited range.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMay 5, 2016

Improvements to online health information can help reduce barriers to care for pancreatic cancer

A new study found that online information about pancreatic cancer is often written at a reading level beyond the sixth grade, making it inaccessible to the general population. The research highlights the need for accurate and understandable health information to empower patients in making informed decisions about their care.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateMay 5, 2016

Climate change may contribute to rising rates of chronic kidney disease

Research suggests that climate change and resulting water shortages are linked to an increase in chronic kidney disease caused by dehydration and heat stress. The study found that rural hot communities are disproportionately affected, with risks increasing for cognitive dysfunction, malnutrition, and other conditions.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 5, 2016

Testing non-breast cancer genes in high-risk women leaves more questions than answers

A new study by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania's Abramson Cancer Center found that testing non-breast cancer genes in high-risk women does not add clinical benefit. The study analyzed a large panel of genes and found that many variants were of uncertain significance, adding complexity to genetic counseling.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMay 5, 2016

Type 2 diabetes drug trials unnecessarily exclude women

Research reveals that type 2 diabetes drug trials frequently exclude women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or may become pregnant without clear justification. The criteria most often excluded women who were currently pregnant or breastfeeding, but more than 50 studies excluded all women of childbearing potential.

SourcePenn State·JournalDiabetes Care·DateMay 5, 2016

Research collaboration IDs serum biomarkers that predict preclinical IBD development and complications

Using clinical data from over 7 million US armed forces members, researchers identified patients with Crohn's disease and found that specific antimicrobial antibodies in their serum samples were associated with increased risk of complications. These biomarkers could potentially predict IBD development and inform preventive strategies.

Superbug infections tracked across Europe

Scientists have developed a web-based system to track the spread of antibiotic-resistant MRSA and other superbugs across Europe, providing valuable insights for infection control teams. The tool, Microreact.org, uses whole-genome sequencing to identify patterns of resistance and help policymakers implement prevention strategies.

Portable device worn on eyeglasses offers hope for people with low vision

A miniature camera using optical character-recognition technology mounted on eyeglasses significantly improves the ability to read and perform daily living activities. The device, called OrCam, recognizes text, faces, and commercial products, offering a new hope for those with age-related macular degeneration or advanced-stage glaucoma.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJAMA Ophthalmology·DateMay 5, 2016

Progress and promise of gene transfer and gene editing to cure beta-thalassemias

Promising results from clinical trials of globin gene transfer have eliminated the need for blood transfusions in some individuals with beta-thalassemias. Gene editing technologies hold promise to correct beta-globin deficiencies and reactivate fetal hemoglobin production, potentially leading to a cure for severe globin disorders.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateMay 5, 2016

IU-led study reveals new insights into light color sensing and transfer of genetic traits

An international team led by IU biologist David M. Kehoe uncovered the regulation of a system that allows Synechococcus to efficiently capture sunlight and perform photosynthesis. The study also provides insight into how genes can be easily transferred between cells in the marine environment through horizontal gene transfer.

SourceIndiana University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 5, 2016

Depressed moms not 'in sync' with their children

A study found that mothers with depression are not physiologically synchronized with their kids, even during positive interactions. The researchers measured heart rate variability and found that depressed moms missed matching their children's physiology, leading to a mismatch in social engagement.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateMay 5, 2016