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Science News for September 8, 2016


Giraffes more speciose than expected

Scientists have reclassified giraffes into four distinct species based on genetic analysis, revealing new insights into their biology and conservation needs. The study highlights the urgent need for protection efforts to safeguard these endangered animals in Africa.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 8, 2016

Containing our 'electromagnetic pollution'

Researchers at Drexel University discovered that a few-atoms-thin titanium carbide material called MXene can effectively block electromagnetic radiation. The material's high electrical conductivity and two-dimensional structure make it ideal for shielding devices without adding significant weight.

SourceDrexel University·JournalScience·DateSep 8, 2016

Feed a virus, starve a bacterial infection?

A new study published in Cell found that providing nutrients to mice with viral infections can help them survive, while those with bacterial infections die when fed. The researchers discovered that the brain's metabolic needs differ depending on the type of infection, which may have implications for designing clinical trials.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateSep 8, 2016

More underrepresented students obtain science degrees & pursue STEM, due to research mentoring

A new study by John Jay College's PRISM program reveals that undergraduate research experiences lead to nearly tripled graduation rates among science majors and a significant increase in students pursuing graduate degrees and STEM careers. The program has also improved student pipeline to post-graduate professional careers in STEM fields.

SourceThe City University of New York·JournalJournal of Research in Science Teaching·DateSep 8, 2016

Teens are less likely to select sugary beverages that contain health warning labels

A new study found that teens are 15% less likely to select sugary beverages with health warning labels. The study, led by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, suggests that warning labels can educate adolescents about the dangers of sugar-sweetened drinks and contribute to healthier choices.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateSep 8, 2016

Human hookworm infection exerts high health and economic burden

A new study estimates that human hookworm infection results in over 4 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) globally, with China facing up to $6.7 billion in productivity losses annually. The infection is estimated to cost between $7.5 billion and $138.9 billion in productivity losses worldwide.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateSep 8, 2016

A tenth of the world's wilderness lost since the 1990s

Catastrophic declines in wilderness areas have occurred globally over the last two decades, with almost 10% of the world's land area lost. The Amazon and Central Africa have been severely impacted, highlighting the need for international policies to protect remaining wilderness.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateSep 8, 2016

Borderline personality disorder -- as scientific understanding increases, improved clinical management needed

A new special issue in the Harvard Review of Psychiatry presents updated research on borderline personality disorder (BPD), emphasizing improved diagnosis and management. The article highlights key findings, including neurobiological models, early intervention strategies, and evidence-based treatments for BPD.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalHarvard Review of Psychiatry·DateSep 8, 2016

Initiating DNA Repair

Researchers discovered that c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activates SIRT6 to repair broken DNA strands. The study found that JNK modifies a specific amino acid residue on SIRT6, allowing it to recruit the enzyme PARP1 to damaged sites.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 8, 2016

Study shows how Chinese medicine kills cancer cells

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have shown how a complex mix of plant compounds derived from ancient clinical practice in China kills cancer cells. The study characterised the molecular action of a Traditional Chinese Medicine, finding that it alters cell cycle regulation to push cancer cells down the death pathway.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateSep 8, 2016

IU and Regenstrief's OPTIMISTIC named one of 20 top geriatric studies of 21st century

The OPTIMISTIC study aims to improve care and communication within nursing facilities and between them and acute-care institutions. The program focuses on early detection and prevention of problems such as medication errors and delayed recognition of changes in medical status, resulting in reduced health decline and hospitalization.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateSep 8, 2016

The history of beer yeast

Researchers sequenced genomes of 157 yeast strains used in brewing and found that industrial yeast came from just a few ancestral strains. Genetic patterns revealed clues on when yeast was first domesticated and how humans shaped its development.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateSep 8, 2016

Bacteria supply their allies with munitions

Bacteria can share molecular spear guns and toxic molecules with closely related strains, allowing them to reuse proteins and produce new weapons. This cooperation enables bacteria to form a survival advantage against competitors, recycling harpooned proteins and toxins to assemble their own T6SSs.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCell·DateSep 8, 2016

COPD exacerbations lead to lung function decline, particularly among those with mild COPD

Research published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are associated with significant long-term lung function loss. Those with mild COPD experienced the greatest FEV1 decline, with each exacerbation linked to an additional 23 m...

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 8, 2016

Linking RNA structure and function

Researchers at MIT deciphered the structure of a long noncoding RNA and found that it interacts with a protein to control heart muscle cell development. The study reveals the importance of RNA structure in understanding its function, which could lead to new therapeutic approaches for cardiovascular disease.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMolecular Cell·DateSep 8, 2016

A microRNA signature for infantile hemangioma

A set of microRNAs, known as C19MC, was found to be specific to infantile hemangiomas and detectable in patient plasma. These microRNAs may serve as biomarkers for IH diagnosis and treatment monitoring, with levels decreasing before tumor regression but rebounding upon re-growth.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJCI Insight·DateSep 8, 2016

Hip fractures: Most elderly unlikely to fully recover

A new study published in Journal of General Internal Medicine found that most elderly individuals who suffer a hip fracture will not regain their pre-injury level of physical activity or independence. The likelihood of recovery was particularly low for those over 85, with dementia, or multiple comorbid conditions.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateSep 8, 2016

Training human antibodies to protect against HIV

Scientists describe a multi-step method to produce broadly neutralizing antibodies in genetically engineered mice, which can recognize multiple HIV mutations. This approach offers a starting point for developing an HIV vaccine that could prevent infection or cure the systemic illness.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateSep 8, 2016

A more accurate sensor for lead paint

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new molecular gel recipe that enables accurate detection of lead in paint chips. The test uses heat and chemical reactions to distinguish between safe and hazardous levels of lead, making it easier for homeowners to assess their risk.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 8, 2016

X-rays: The first & best screening tool in diagnosing knee pain among middle-aged patients

A study by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that X-rays are the most effective diagnostic tool for knee pain in middle-aged patients. The study suggests that weight-bearing X-rays should be obtained before an MRI to screen for knee pain, as they can often provide enough information for a diagnosis and treatment plan.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateSep 8, 2016

New insights into tumor-infiltrating T cells

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital identified a distinct gene module for T cell dysfunction, contributing to chronic disease states like cancer and chronic viral infections. A transcription factor, Gata-3, was found to play a crucial role in T cell dysfunction, offering new avenues for targeted therapy.