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Science News for October 20, 2016


Male mice model human speech defect

Researchers at Duke University found that male mice carrying a genetic mutation known to affect human speech struggle with sequencing phonemes into words. The study used new statistical tools to analyze the structure of ultrasonic mouse songs, revealing a similar impact on sequence complexity as seen in humans.

SourceDuke University·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·DateOct 20, 2016

Self-healable battery

Scientists have developed thin, flexible lithium ion batteries that can self-heal after breaking, overcoming common wearables' power source limitations. The new batteries feature a self-healing polymer and gel electrolyte, allowing for safe use on the body.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 20, 2016

To prescribe or not to prescribe?

Research suggests doctors are more likely to prescribe growth hormones for slow-growing children if the child's family requests it or if they believe in its intangible benefits. This raises concerns about access, overuse, and cost of life-enhancing products, which can be expensive and create financial burdens.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateOct 20, 2016

Amazonian frog has its own ant repellent

A team of researchers discovered that the tiny yellow-striped Amazonian frog has a special skin chemical that allows it to live comfortably among leaf-cutting ants. The frogs' skin extracts mimic the ants' own chemical signals, preventing attacks and enabling coexistence.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateOct 20, 2016

Researchers describe how tumors recruit and use stem cells to support tumor growth and progression

Researchers have identified a mechanism by which tumors recruit bone mesenchymal stem cells and convert them into cancer-associated fibroblasts, facilitating tumor progression. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) signaling plays a crucial role in this process, suggesting new therapeutic targets for suppressing tumor growth.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateOct 20, 2016

From ancient fossils to future cars

Researchers have created a low-cost, high-energy lithium-ion battery anode material using diatomaceous earth, paving the way for more sustainable and efficient electric vehicle batteries. The discovery could lead to improved adoption of electric vehicles by reducing costs and increasing energy storage capacity.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 20, 2016

Diet and exercise may improve physical function and quality of life in older obese adults

A recent review and analysis of published studies found low-to-moderate evidence that dietary and exercise interventions can improve physical function and quality of life in older adults with obesity. The study included 405 adults aged over 60 years, highlighting the need for well-designed trials to address obesity in this population.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 20, 2016

Blast of thin air can reset circadian clocks

A study published in Cell Metabolism found that varying oxygen levels can reset the circadian clock of mice, which could inform how airlines moderate cabin air pressure. The research also suggests potential benefits for humans, including alleviating jetlag and improving air travel comfort.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateOct 20, 2016

The smart wheelchair

Researchers developed a smart wheelchair navigation system that incorporates enhanced safety features and warning systems to assist users more effectively. The system can detect emotional distress or drowsiness in the user, provide warnings, and monitor vital signs for diagnostic purposes.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Human Factors Modelling and Simulation·DateOct 20, 2016

Mt. Aso could erupt much sooner, scientists warn

New faults in Mt. Aso's magma chamber and volcanic cones alter spatial and mechanical properties of the volcano, potentially changing its eruption dynamics. The study suggests that the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake accelerated the timing of a future eruption by creating new channels for magma venting.

SourceKyoto University·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2016

A look at the 'marijuana' receptor

The study provides a three-dimensional image of cannabinoid receptor 1, which is found to be embedded in the surface of many nerve cells. This discovery could explain how pain medications meant to mimic cannabis use without the 'high' can cause unintended side effects.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateOct 20, 2016

Nanoparticle vaccinates mice against dengue fever

Researchers developed a new type of nanoparticle vaccine that effectively vaccinated mice against one dengue virus serotype. The vaccine targets only one strain, but its development could pave the way for vaccines against all four serotypes, potentially offering better protection against life-threatening disease.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateOct 20, 2016

Prey-foraging: The collective search or lone-wolf approach?

Researchers created a simple rule of thumb to help predators weigh the pros and cons of sharing information about prey locations. The model suggests that cooperation is beneficial when it takes longer to find and consume prey, such as large buffalo or rich fishing grounds.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateOct 20, 2016

Study estimates ADHD symptom persistence into adulthood

A recent study found that 60% of children with ADHD persist with symptoms until their mid-20s, and 41% experience both symptoms and impairment as young adults. The researchers suggest using a combination of parent and self-reports, along with an adjusted symptom threshold for adulthood, to accurately diagnose ADHD in adults.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateOct 20, 2016

Chemical tags affect ability of RNA viruses to infect cells

New research from Duke University found that RNA viruses like hepatitis, Zika, and dengue are littered with N6-methyladenosine tags which slow down their ability to infect cells. The study suggests that these chemical tags might regulate the life cycle of these viruses and provide new targets for antiviral drug development.

SourceDuke University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateOct 20, 2016

How snakes lost a blueprint for making limbs

Researchers found a genetic mutation responsible for the loss of limb formation instructions in snakes, which are unable to form limbs. By restoring the missing DNA sequence in mice, scientists demonstrated that snakes' inability to form limbs is due to a critical stretch of DNA involved in limb growth.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateOct 20, 2016

Life on the edge is dangerous

Research on sand lizards found that populations at the edge of their range exhibit lower genetic diversity compared to those in the center, making them more susceptible to climate change, parasites, and other challenges. This study highlights the importance of conservation efforts for species living on the periphery of their habitats.

Mobilizing our immune system to fight viruses

Researchers at Monash University have made a groundbreaking discovery about how T cells recognize viruses, challenging decades-old immunological concepts. By using the National Synchrotron, they gained key molecular insights into the T cell-virus interaction, revealing a new way T cells 'see' viruses and triggering an immune response.

SourceMonash University·JournalImmunity·DateOct 20, 2016

Smashing metallic cubes toughens them up

Rice University scientists fire micro-cubes at a target to rearrange their nanoscale structures, creating ultrastrong and tough materials. The technique, known as LIPIT, uses advanced laser-induced projectile impact testing to generate high pressure that far exceeds the material's strength.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2016

More American men with early-stage prostate cancer could opt out of immediate treatment

A new report suggests that well over half of American men with non-aggressive prostate cancer could choose to monitor their disease instead of seeking immediate radiation treatment or surgery. Active surveillance relies on regular blood tests, physical exams, and periodic biopsies to screen for tumor growth before therapy is considered.

Researchers find new way to attack gastro bug

Scientists at Griffith University identified a unique sensory structure in bacteria that binds host-specific sugar and is present on virulent strains of Campylobacter jejuni. Disabling this sensor reduces the ability of campylobacteria to colonize chickens, offering a potential target for antimicrobial drugs.

SourceGriffith University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 20, 2016

Study offers different perspective on entrepreneurial opportunities

A new study from the University of Texas at Dallas offers a different view on entrepreneurial opportunities. The authors propose that opportunities are not pre-existing but rather have potential that can be actualized through effort and creativity. This perspective has significant implications for education, suggesting a shift in how e...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalAcademy of Management Review·DateOct 20, 2016

Designing the future internet

Raychaudhuri's MobilityFirst project aims to rearchitect the internet with name-based routing, improving flexibility, security, and efficiency. The project has underway trials to deliver content closer to users, extend mobile services, and support targeted emergency messaging.