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Science News Archive 2017 - Page 446


Page 446 of 461

Discovery could lead to jet engines that run hotter -- and cleaner

Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered a way to deactivate nano twins in superalloys, strengthening their high-temperature properties. This technique, called phase transformation strengthening, eliminates alloy deformation by half, enabling turbine engines to run cleanly and efficiently.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 17, 2017

Asthma not found in high percentage of adults who were previously diagnosed

Researchers found that approximately one-third of adults with a previous asthma diagnosis couldn't be re-diagnosed due to spontaneous remission or misdiagnosis. The study also highlighted the importance of objective testing to confirm asthma diagnosis, suggesting that failure to use these tests may lead to misdiagnosis.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJan 17, 2017

Molecular clocks will turn back time on what wiped out the dinosaurs

Researchers from the University of Bath will investigate mass extinction using genetic and fossil analyses to understand patterns of extinction and species formation. They hope to find evidence of higher extinction rates before the K-Pg boundary, shedding light on recovery rates after the event.

SourceUniversity of Bath·DateJan 17, 2017

Community-acquired pneumonia can spread year-round

A study of 12 years of community-acquired pneumonia data found that while the condition occurs throughout all seasons, winter is the peak season for pathogen variation. The research suggests that community-acquired pneumonia can no longer be classified as a seasonal disease.

SourceWiley·JournalRespirology·DateJan 17, 2017

Personalized treatment for those in blood pressure 'gray zone'

Researchers found that coronary artery calcium scores can help personalize treatment for patients with mild to moderate high blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease. The study suggests using these scores to determine the most appropriate blood pressure treatment strategy for each patient.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCirculation·DateJan 17, 2017

Cell biology: Take the mRNA train

Researchers have characterized the structure of a macromolecular complex involved in mRNA transport, showing how RNAs are recognized and bound by binding proteins in the nucleus. The complex allows for the specific recognition and transport of mRNAs from the cell nucleus to the cytoplasm.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJan 17, 2017

Diabetes in Chinese adults linked to 9 years' loss of life

Research published in JAMA Network found that diabetes in middle-aged Chinese adults leads to a nine-year loss of life on average. The study discovered higher mortality risks from ischemic heart disease, stroke, and cancer, particularly in rural areas.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJan 17, 2017

Calorie restriction lets monkeys live long and prosper

A collaboration between two research teams has resolved a scientific controversy on calorie restriction's effects on aging. The study shows that restricting calories improves survival, reduces cancer, cardiovascular disease, and insulin resistance in adult and older primates but not in younger animals.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 17, 2017

Retinopathy of prematurity: New developments are cause for hope

Advances in telemedicine and anti-VEGF treatments offer new hope for patients with retinopathy of prematurity. New technologies are transforming the care of ROP patients, enabling more widespread treatment options.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus·DateJan 17, 2017

Ludwig study reveals why cancer cells spread within the body

A new study by Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research has identified an ancient cellular response that underlies the spread of melanoma. The findings show that punishing conditions within the tumor prompt a subset of tumor cells to become invasive, and suggest novel strategies for treating this form of skin cancer.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalGenes & Development·DateJan 17, 2017

First of its kind cancer stem cell research unlocks clues to treatment resistance

Researchers at Trinity College Dublin have discovered a link between the loss of miR-17 and oesophageal tumour resistance to radiotherapy. Higher numbers of cancer stem cells formed larger, more aggressive tumours and were more resistant to radiation-induced cell death. Synthetic miR-17 may enhance radiotherapy effectiveness in patients.

SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateJan 17, 2017

Delhi's health system: Inadequate progress for a global city

Recent investments in Delhi's health care have failed to improve access to effective care, with crushing poverty and inequalities hindering progress. The city's high rates of premature deaths from causes such as septicemia and tuberculosis are a concern, highlighting the need for increased public health spending and policy changes.

SourceNew York University·JournalPublic Health·DateJan 17, 2017

Birds of a feather flock together to confuse potential predators

Researchers found that starlings are safer from predation in larger flocks due to the confusion effect, where predators struggle to target individual birds. The study suggests that this behavior may be one of many functions of these impressive groups in starlings.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateJan 17, 2017

When it comes to mating, fruit flies can make rational choices

A team of researchers from the University of Washington found that male fruit flies exhibit transitive decision-making when selecting a mate, processing information from visual and chemical cues. The study showed that males prioritize females with higher reproductive capacity, suggesting a rational choice mechanism.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 17, 2017

Biophysics plays key role in immune system signaling and response

Researchers discovered that biophysical cues of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) influence the immune system's response to pathogens. The findings suggest that understanding these cues can help fine-tune vaccine responses and generate potent immune reactions.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalCell Reports·DateJan 17, 2017

Study shows signs of hope for endangered sea turtles

Researchers found that loggerhead turtles spend an average of seven years and 16 years in the waters off Baja California before migrating to Japan. The study provides crucial information for developing conservation plans and reducing bycatch rates, which can be as high as 1,000 turtles per year.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateJan 17, 2017

Candidates for bionic hand reconstruction

Researchers develop a treatment algorithm for bionic hand reconstruction in patients with severe nerve damage, offering improved hand function and reduced chronic pain. The study's five patients show significant improvements in hand function, including increased sensitivity and motor control.

SourceJournal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateJan 17, 2017

Successful antibody trial in HIV-infected individuals

A new HIV antibody, 10-1074, has been successfully tested on humans, demonstrating high antiviral activity and favourable pharmacokinetic properties. The trial also investigated the development of resistant HIV variants, providing valuable insights into the potential treatment approach.

SourceGerman Center for Infection Research·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 17, 2017

Report highlights national trends in heart disease treatments

The report showcases improvements in heart attack care, with 93% of patients receiving stents within 90 minutes. Key findings also highlight strengths and areas for improvement in other cardiovascular procedures, such as ICD therapy and congenital heart disease interventions.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 17, 2017

Unveiling the biology behind nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Researchers at EPFL have identified a key player in the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the liver. The study found that impaired SUMOylation of nuclear receptor LRH-1 promotes NAFLD, highlighting potential new treatments and biomarkers for the disease.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 17, 2017

New study finds Transcendental Meditation reduces trauma in female prisoners

A new randomized controlled study published in The Permanente Journal found that Transcendental Meditation significantly reduces trauma symptoms in female prisoner inmates. Practicing the technique for four months showed a natural reduction in intrusive thoughts, hyperarousal, and overall trauma symptoms.

SourceMaharishi International University·JournalThe Permanente Journal·DateJan 17, 2017

How solvents affect the skin

Researchers studied how solvents affect skin molecules, revealing changes in fluid state and interactions with added components. The findings improve understanding of molecular mechanisms, enabling more efficient regulation of skin properties.

SourceLund University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 17, 2017

Rapamycin tones down the toxicity of HIV-1 reactivation strategies

Researchers found that rapamycin treatment reduced proinflammatory cytokine release and toxicity without decreasing HIV-1 reactivation in T cells. The treatment did not impair the immune system's ability to recognize infected T cells, making it a potential strategy for targeting latent HIV-1 reservoirs.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 17, 2017

Malaria drug successfully treats 26-year-old brain cancer patient

A new drug combination that adds chloroquine to targeted treatment has stabilized a 26-year-old brain cancer patient's disease, increasing both quality and quantity of life. The treatment was effective in two other brain cancer patients with similar diseases.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·DateJan 17, 2017

Epigenetic factors linked to obesity-related disease

A large study from Boston Children's Hospital found that epigenetic modifications to DNA, specifically DNA methylation, are linked to an increased risk of obesity-related health problems. The researchers identified 83 sites in the genome where methylation changes were associated with differences in energy balance and lipid metabolism.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJan 17, 2017

HIV treatment might boost susceptibility to syphilis, say researchers

Researchers found that antiretroviral drugs used to treat HIV infection may increase susceptibility to syphilis by boosting immune system activity and leading to more sexual partners. This could explain the rise in new cases of syphilis among gay/bisexual men over the past decade.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalSexually Transmitted Infections·DateJan 16, 2017

Best treatment option written in cancer's genetic script

A study published in Nature Genetics has shown that a knowledge bank of patient data can be used to predict the best treatment option for people with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). The tool takes into account individual genetic features, treatment schedule, and outcome, enabling therapeutic choices to become personalised. This approach...

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 16, 2017

Inception of the last ice age

The Eurasian ice sheet grew from small ice caps to a massive ice mass, nearly three times the size of modern-day Greenland, through a process driven by climate cycles and snowfall. The sheet's growth had a profound impact on regional climates, creating rain-shadow effects and desert conditions in western Russia and Siberia.

SourceUiT The Arctic University of Norway·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateJan 16, 2017

Galaxy murder mystery

A global team of researchers found that ram-pressure stripping is more prevalent than thought, driving gas from galaxies and preventing star formation. The study reveals that this process is potentially the dominant way galaxies are quenched by their surrounds, leading to an early death.

SourceInternational Centre for Radio Astronomy Research·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJan 16, 2017

Acupuncture may alleviate babies' excessive crying (infantile colic)

Research suggests that acupuncture can effectively treat infantile colic by reducing the frequency and duration of excessive crying in babies. The study involved 147 babies who received either standard care or tailored acupuncture treatment, resulting in a significant reduction in crying time for those who received acupuncture.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalAcupuncture in Medicine·DateJan 16, 2017

Fossils found reveal unseen 'footprint' maker

Researchers discovered fossils of a previously unknown trilobite species that left distinctive fossil footprints around the ancient supercontinent Gondwana. The discovery reveals unique leg structures and digestive systems, providing insights into trilobite behavior and biology.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 16, 2017

The lasting effects of ministrokes may contribute to dementia

Recent preclinical research suggests microinfarcts can induce prolonged dysfunction in brain areas estimated 12-times larger than the visible injury site, contributing to cognitive decline and dementia. The study used a mouse model to examine the effects of individual cortical microinfarcts on surrounding tissue function in vivo.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Cerebral Blood Flow & Metabolism·DateJan 16, 2017

Dressing a metal in various colors

Researchers at DGIST have developed a technology to coat metals with several nanometers of semiconducting materials, enabling various color changes through thin-film interference. This breakthrough allows for the production of colors such as yellow, orange, blue, and purple on demand.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNanoscale·DateJan 16, 2017

Theory lends transparency to how glass breaks

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new theory and computational methods to understand how metallic glasses behave under stress, revealing the formation of shear bands that can lead to breaking. The study provides valuable insights into improving the strength and durability of glass materials.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 16, 2017

Targets and patented drugs for chemotherapy of Chagas disease

Researchers have identified multiple targets for Chagas disease chemotherapy, including ergosterol biosynthesis pathway and cruzipain, a key cysteine protease. Novel synthesized anti-T.cruzi compounds with specific single or multi-target assigned have also been described, highlighting potential for effective treatment.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalRecent Patents on Anti-Infective Drug Discovery·DateJan 16, 2017

Imposing 'meaningful work' leads to staff burnout

A new study by Professor Catherine Bailey suggests that manipulating employees' desire for meaningful work can damage organizations and alienate staff. The researchers identify two forms of 'acting' used by employees when they perceive organizational efforts to manage meaningfulness, which can lead to negative consequences.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalHuman Resource Management Review·DateJan 16, 2017

UV light can aid hospitals' fight to wipe out drug-resistant superbugs

A large randomized trial found that using UVC machines can reduce the transmission of four major superbugs by a cumulative 30 percent, particularly for MRSA. The study suggests that adding UV light to standard cleaning can be an effective strategy in reducing infections in hospitals.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 16, 2017

Trade-offs between economic growth and deforestation

A new study published in Scientific Reports found a significant link between economic growth and deforestation in poor countries, with the effect disappearing in wealthier economies. The research used satellite data and economic data from 130 countries to make comparisons across border regions with similar geography.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 16, 2017

4G network infrastructure could mean fewer accidents by drivers

Researchers at the University of Bristol propose a cost-effective solution for Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) to share high-quality data with drivers in emergency situations. The single frequency network (SFN) approach could improve road safety by providing reliable information, reducing transmission power by up to 20 times.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateJan 16, 2017