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Science News Archive 2017 - Page 449


Page 449 of 461

New Caltech instrument poised to image the cosmic web

The Caltech instrument, KCWI, will map gas flowing into and out of forming galaxies, revealing dominant modes of galaxy formation. KCWI is a versatile general-purpose instrument that can study cosmic objects in ways not possible before.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·DateJan 12, 2017

3-D printing could transform future membrane technology

Researchers at the University of Bath explore the potential of 3D printing in membrane fabrication, enabling controlled complex pore structures, integrated surface patterns, and membranes based on nature. This breakthrough has significant implications for reducing energy and costs in industries worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Membrane Science·DateJan 12, 2017

Inhibition of EZH2 might be new therapy of multiple myeloma

Researchers at Uppsala University identified a new mechanism that could explain the tumor-promoting role of EZH2 in multiple myeloma. Inhibiting EZH2 reduces the survival of tumor cells by downregulating oncogenes and upregulating microRNAs with potential tumor suppressor functions.

SourceUppsala University·JournalOncoTargets and Therapy·DateJan 12, 2017

Genetically engineered mosquitoes resist dengue fever virus

Researchers genetically engineered Aedes aegypti mosquitoes to resist dengue fever virus by altering the JAK/STAT pathway, resulting in a 78-83% reduction in viral copies. The modified mosquitos had normal lifespans but produced fewer eggs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJan 12, 2017

How soil bacteria and fungi drive plant diversity

New studies reveal how soil biota affects plant diversity, with arbuscular mycorrhizas and ectomycorrhizas playing key roles in tree species recruitment and survival. The presence of certain fungi can increase or decrease local diversity, depending on the type of plant.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 12, 2017

Seeing vape pen in use boosts desire to smoke among young adults

A new study found that viewing vape pen use increases the urge to smoke in young adults, similar to watching someone smoke a cigarette. The study's results suggest that vape pens can be a potent trigger for smoking, despite their design differences from traditional cigarettes.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateJan 12, 2017

In letters to Trump & Congress, AGS highlights programs essential to older adults

The American Geriatrics Society has emphasized the importance of strengthening clinical care and workforce development to support older Americans. The society outlines its vision for person-centered care, focusing on expanding healthcare options, ensuring quality in healthcare, and addressing geriatrician shortages.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJan 12, 2017

Annual report examines state of college student mental heath

The 2016 Center for Collegiate Mental Health Annual Report reveals that college students' mental health needs have increased due to national prevention and awareness efforts. Counseling centers are adapting by providing more rapid-access services, but routine treatment capacities may be impacted.

SourcePenn State·DateJan 12, 2017

Researchers find link between concussions and Alzheimer's disease

New research found that concussions accelerate brain atrophy and cognitive decline in people with a genetic risk for Alzheimer's disease. The study, published in the journal Brain, suggests that even mild traumatic brain injuries may increase the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalBrain·DateJan 12, 2017

How navigational goals are represented in the bat brain

Researchers have identified a subpopulation of neurons that represent navigational goals in the bat brain. These 'tuners' vary their activity based on the angled directionality of flight paths toward specific locations, suggesting goal-directed memory is essential for navigation.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 12, 2017

New technology enables 5-D imaging in live animals, humans

Researchers have developed an image analysis technique called Hyper-Spectral Phasor (HySP) that can track multiple molecules in living organisms, making it easier to diagnose diseases and identify therapeutic targets. The new technology uses cell phone images and is faster and less expensive than current methods.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Methods·DateJan 12, 2017

Scientists switch on predatory kill instinct in mice

Researchers at Yale University have isolated the brain circuitry that coordinates predatory hunting in mice, revealing two distinct modules controlling pursuit and kill behaviors. The study found that activating specific neurons in the amygdala can drive aggressive behavior, including biting and killing, in response to prey.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateJan 12, 2017

Mutations responsible for cleft palate and related birth defects identified

A study has identified mutations in the HYAL2 gene as responsible for cleft lip and cleft palate defects, which slows hyaluronan turnover, impacting development of the hard palate and other body parts. This finding highlights a new molecular cause for orofacial clefting and may contribute to the development of new treatments.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJan 12, 2017

Scientists reveal non-addictive pathway to pain relief

Researchers have identified a non-addictive pathway to pain relief by targeting endocannabinoid receptors in the brain. The study suggests that selective activation of CB2 receptors can contribute to the medicinal benefits of cannabis while minimizing the risk of tolerance and withdrawal.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·DateJan 12, 2017

Researchers capture first glimpse of ruby seadragons in the wild

Researchers discover Ruby Seadragons lack ornate leaf-like appendages, a feature previously considered distinguishing to all seadragon species. They also found that the fish have prehensile, curled tails, similar to those of seahorses and pipefish, which may aid in holding on to objects in high-surge waters.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalMarine Biodiversity Records·DateJan 12, 2017

This bay in Scandinavia has world record in carbon storing

A study by the University of Southern Denmark reveals that Thurøbund's protected and productive bay stores a record amount of carbon, with an average of 27,000 grams per square meter. This exceeds global estimates of seagrass meadow storage, highlighting the importance of preserving these ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalBiogeosciences·DateJan 12, 2017

'Mysterious' non-protein-coding RNAs play important roles in gene expression

A recent study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine reveals that enhancer RNAs play a crucial role in regulating CBP activity and gene expression. The researchers identified eRNAs as the most common type of RNA binding to CBP, suggesting their importance in guiding protein production.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCell·DateJan 12, 2017

Manchester scientists tie the tightest knot ever achieved

Researchers at The University of Manchester developed a braiding technique to create tighter and more complex molecular knots, leading to potential breakthroughs in material strength and elasticity. This achievement has the possibility of generating new types of materials, such as lighter and more flexible polymers.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalScience·DateJan 12, 2017

BBSRC BRAVO: Optimizing the performance of Brassica crops

The £4.4 million BBSRC BRAVO project will support the training of young scientists and raise industry stakeholder awareness through workshops in Brassica genetics, genomics, phenotyping and modelling. This knowledge will help develop new, more resilient varieties of Brassica crops.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·DateJan 12, 2017

Being rude to your child's doctor could lead to worse care

Researchers found that rudeness from a patient's family member negatively impacts medical team performance, leading to reduced diagnostic accuracy and communication. Interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral training, may help mitigate these effects, suggesting teaching medical professionals how to handle rudeness is crucial.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJan 12, 2017

Family Medicine and Community Health journal volume 4, issue number 4 publishes

The Winter 2016 issue features three original research articles, two review articles, a commentary article, a narrative analysis article, and two China Focus articles addressing sociocultural challenges in engaging black sub-Saharan African communities in HIV prevention programs. Other articles discuss the relationship between mothers'...

SourceFamily Medicine and Community Health·JournalFamily Medicine and Community Health·DateJan 12, 2017

Study: Depression in pregnancy, low birth weight tied to biomarker

Research from Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center finds depression in pregnancy associated with lower BDNF levels, which also predict low birth weight. The study suggests that increasing BDNF through exercise may be a beneficial way to address the issue.

SourceMediaSource·JournalPsychoneuroendocrinology·DateJan 12, 2017

Profitable coral reef fisheries require light fishing

A recent study found that coral reef food webs are altered when fishing impacts on valued species, leading to potential collapse of top-tier predators. Lightly fished reefs can support these valuable fish, while moderate fishing levels cause a decline in mid-tier predators, ultimately affecting the ecosystem.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 12, 2017

Fighting viruses to improve agriculture

A University of California, Riverside researcher is leading a team studying the life cycles of harmful viruses. The goal is to understand viral capsid dynamics to develop new approaches to curb infections.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateJan 12, 2017

Blended galaxies

Astrophysicist Hai Fu aims to study the late stages of merging galaxies and observe supermassive black holes' accretion using a large chunk of the night sky. The research project will use radio-emission maps and optical observations to confirm findings.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·DateJan 12, 2017

Some cells need a 'haircut' before duplicating

Researchers find that decapitation of primary cilia, a process linked to cellular duplication, is triggered by the presence of Inpp5e protein, which helps stabilize cilia. The study also reveals that wire-like structures formed in cilia contribute to decapitation, and that this process is essential for full cilia disassembly.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell·DateJan 12, 2017

Offenders' deadly thoughts may hold answer to reducing crime

A new study found that 12% of offenders exhibited homicidal ideation, responsible for most severe crimes like murder and assault. Identifying these chronic offenders can help protect the public and inform policy implications for criminal justice and sentencing reform.

SourceIowa State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Criminal Justice·DateJan 12, 2017

Schizophrenia could directly increase risk of diabetes

People with early schizophrenia are at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, according to a new study. The researchers found that patients showed higher levels of fasting blood glucose and insulin resistance compared to healthy controls.

SourceKing's College London·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateJan 12, 2017

Researchers reveal that not all violent acts are equal

Researchers found similar judgements across nationalities on violent act severity, enabling better crime classification for international organisations. The study highlights the need for a nuanced approach to classifying violence, taking into account differences in severity.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalPsychology of Violence·DateJan 12, 2017

Pragmatic approach to using animal tissue

A new framework called SEARCH encourages scientists to share experimental animal resources, reducing the need for new animals in research. The framework aims to foster collaboration and promote reduction, replacement, and refinement of animal use in biomedical research.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 12, 2017

Research evaluates treatment options for pelvic organ prolapse

A study published in American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology evaluated treatment options for pelvic organ prolapse, comparing surgery and pessary. The research found that women undergoing surgery experienced greater improvements in physical, social, emotional, and sexual functioning compared to those using a pessary.

SourceCare New England·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJan 12, 2017

Bacteria recruit other species with long-range electrical signals

Researchers at UC San Diego discovered that bacteria in biofilm communities can send long-range electrical signals to recruit new members from different species. This discovery reveals a human-like trait in bacteria, showing that they can exert dynamic control over distant cells through electrical signaling.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell·DateJan 12, 2017

A sugary drinks tax has wider economic as well as health benefits

A sugary drinks tax can improve economic welfare by discouraging retailers from using value size pricing, which leads to excessive consumption of unhealthy drinks. The tax would also reduce health problems related to obesity. Policymakers should recognize the wider benefits of such a tax.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Business Research·DateJan 12, 2017

Researchers create mosquito resistant to dengue virus

Researchers genetically modified mosquitoes to resist infection from dengue virus, boosting their natural ability to fight the disease. The findings could be a prelude to developing a strategy to eliminate the threat of dengue.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateJan 12, 2017

TSRI scientists discover master regulator of cellular aging

Researchers at TSRI have discovered a protein called TZAP that regulates telomere length, which is crucial for determining cell lifespan and preventing cancer. Understanding this process opens up new avenues for studying aging and developing treatments.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalScience·DateJan 12, 2017

Maternal blood pressure before pregnancy may be related to babies' sex

A new study suggests that a woman's blood pressure before pregnancy is related to the likelihood of delivering a boy or girl. The research found that women with higher blood pressure before pregnancy were more likely to deliver a boy, contradicting previous theories and providing a novel insight into human reproduction.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalAmerican Journal of Hypertension·DateJan 12, 2017

€29 million research grant to assess risk posed by deadly lung infections

A €29 million research grant will be used to investigate serious lung infections caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), particularly affecting babies and older adults. The project aims to gather robust statistics on RSV cases across Europe, assess economic impact, and develop best practice guidelines for monitoring and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·DateJan 12, 2017

Decreasing cocaine use leads to regression of coronary artery disease

A study published in Journal of Addiction Medicine found that decreasing cocaine use leads to regression of unstable coronary plaques, a type of plaque most likely to cause a heart attack. Reducing cocaine use also decreases inflammation markers and improves cardiovascular health.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Addiction Medicine·DateJan 12, 2017

New system for forming memories

A study published in Science found that the entorhinal cortex replays memories of movement independently of the hippocampus, challenging the long-held view of the hippocampus as the primary memory region. The medial entorhinal cortex acts like a navigational system, providing cues for location and movement to the hippocampus.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalScience·DateJan 12, 2017

Alternative payment model boosts quality of care for low-income patients

A new study led by Harvard Medical School researchers found that an alternative payment model improved the quality of care for low-income patients, with significant gains observed in lower socioeconomic status areas. The program, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts' Alternative Quality Contract, pays providers a lump sum to cover a...

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalHealth Affairs·DateJan 12, 2017

Fish lightly to keep snapper on the reef

Scientists found that top-level predator fish like Snapper and Grouper are easily overfished in heavily-fished areas, altering the food chain. In contrast, lightly fished coral reefs support a rapidly passing energy flow from bottom to top of the food web.

SourceLancaster University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 12, 2017