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Science News Archive November 2016 - Page 30


Page 30 of 38

New strategy for antidepressant therapies

Researchers at Penn State have discovered a new strategy for antidepressant therapies by increasing the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brains of depressed mice. This approach shows promise as a rapidly acting and more effective treatment option.

SourcePenn State·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateNov 8, 2016

Shedding light on the formation of nanodroplets in aqueous solutions of polar organics

A team of Russian researchers used dynamic light scattering and phase microscopy to demonstrate the existence of stable nanodroplets of tetrahydrofuran (THF) in aqueous electrolyte solutions. The research developed a new theory explaining the spontaneous generation of heterogeneous nanoparticles due to 'twinkling' hydrogen bonds.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateNov 8, 2016

PPPL physicists build diagnostic that measures plasma velocity in real time

Physicists at PPPL have developed a real-time velocity diagnostic that measures plasma velocity in four locations within the National Spherical Torus Experiment-Upgrade. This device enables rapid calculations of how the velocity profile of ions evolves over time, which is crucial for optimizing plasma stability and fusion reactions.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPlasma Physics and Controlled Fusion·DateNov 8, 2016

Dementia diagnosis delayed by complex referral criteria

A study found that complex referral criteria are contributing to delays in dementia diagnosis, with some clinics requiring multiple investigations. Alternative approaches, such as primary care-led processes and direct access to memory clinics, may speed up diagnosis while reducing pressure on GPs and specialists.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateNov 8, 2016

Alzheimer's disease found to be a diabetic disorder of the brain

Researchers at Tohoku University have discovered a potential link between Alzheimer's disease and insulin signaling dysfunction. The study suggests that memantine, an Alzheimer's treatment, can improve cognitive function by inhibiting the ATP-sensitive potassium channel (Kir6.2 channel), leading to better memory retention in patients.

SourceTohoku University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateNov 8, 2016

Treatment advances have not improved long-term health status of childhood cancer survivors

Despite decades of improved survival rates, childhood cancer survivors continue to report poor physical and mental health status. Researchers found that patients treated in earlier decades had better health outcomes than those treated in later decades, suggesting a link between access to follow-up care and reported adverse outcomes.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 7, 2016

Proteins as an early warning system for type 1 diabetes?

Researchers at Helmholtz Munich have discovered proteins in the blood that can predict incipient type 1 diabetes, even before symptoms appear. The study identified 41 peptides from 26 proteins that distinguish children with autoantibodies from those without, including proteins associated with lipid metabolism.

Punching cancer with RNA knuckles

Researchers at Georgia Tech develop a targeted therapy using nanoparticles to deliver short interfering RNA that knocks down EGFR protein, leading to massive reduction or complete eradication of ovarian cancer tumors. The treatment, combined with chemotherapy, shows promising results in limited in vivo tests on mice.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 7, 2016

Unlocking big genetic datasets

Researchers at Columbia University developed a new machine-learning algorithm called TeraStructure to analyze massive genetic data sets. The algorithm can estimate population structure more accurately and twice as fast as current state-of-the-art algorithms, making it potentially useful for identifying disease-causing genetic mutations.

SourceColumbia University·JournalNature Genetics·DateNov 7, 2016

Watching quantum jumps

Researchers at TU Wien and Germany have developed a method to study the time structure of quantum jumps, which are extremely fast state changes in atoms. The experiment showed that the duration of two different ionization processes can be distinguished, revealing new insights into the physics of ultrashort time scales.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Physics·DateNov 7, 2016

University of Toronto study reveals secret to a happy sex life

A University of Toronto study found that individuals who prioritize working on their sexual growth are more satisfied with their relationships, whereas those relying on 'sexual destiny' tend to use their sex life as a barometer for relationship success. The research showed that while both groups experience an initial honeymoon phase, t...

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateNov 7, 2016

Bushmeat hunting drives biodiversity declines in Central Africa

A study by Duke University researchers found that bushmeat hunting is drastically shaping wildlife communities, leading to sharp declines in large mammal populations and increases in rodent and small bird populations. The research suggests that the problem will worsen as the human population in the region increases.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateNov 7, 2016

Do second opinions matter in prostate cancer care?

A study of 2386 men with localized prostate cancer found that second opinions did not affect treatment choice or quality of care. Men who sought second opinions due to dissatisfaction with their initial urologist were less likely to receive definitive treatment.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateNov 7, 2016

Increasing cost of natural hazards as climate changes

A comprehensive study of Australian natural hazards finds increasing heatwaves and extreme bushfires, but uncertain projections for storms and rainfall. Temperature-related hazards are projected to become more extreme, while others may see increased frequency or intensity, with complex interlinkages between climate extremes.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalClimatic Change·DateNov 7, 2016