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Science News for December 18, 2017


Brain lesions and criminal behavior linked to moral decision-making network

Research finds brain lesions associated with increased risk of criminal behavior, specifically impacting the moral decision-making network. The study analyzed MRI and CT scans of individuals with brain lesions, revealing a strong correlation between lesions in the same brain network as those with criminal behavior.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2017

Study sheds light on rarity of disease-causing IGF mutations

Researchers have identified a low incidence of disease-causing IGF mutations and common polymorphisms in the IGF protein family. Dr. Rotwein's analysis suggests that most medical problems associated with IGF mutations are not caused by rare genetic mutations, but rather by prevalent genetic variations within the human population.

SourceTexas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 18, 2017

Black hole pair born inside a dying star?

Researchers at Kyoto University have proposed a new theory on the formation of binary black holes within collapsing stars. Their study suggests that these black holes could form through dynamical fragmentation of the star's inner core, leading to two fragments becoming black holes and orbiting each other.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 18, 2017

Mutational signatures may ID pts with Br Ca most likely to benefit from platinum-based chemo

Researchers identified mutational signatures characteristic of homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) as associated with improved clinical outcomes to platinum-based chemotherapy. High HRDetect scores were significantly linked to radiographic tumor shrinkage and longer overall survival in patients treated with the medication.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateDec 18, 2017

New 'checkpoint' model that could identify potential drugs to treat genetic disorders

A new 'checkpoint' model can identify potential drugs to treat genetic disorders by allowing compounds to bypass premature stop instructions once, reducing the risk of harmful protein generation. The model has been used to screen hundreds of genes and existing FDA-approved drugs, identifying two promising targets for drug development.

SourceUniversity of Bradford·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateDec 18, 2017

Particle size matters for porous building blocks

Rice University scientists found that porous particles of calcium and silicate show potential as building blocks for various applications. When assembled into micron-sized sheets and pellets, the arrays held up better under pressure, with bigger individual nanoparticles being 120% tougher than smaller ones.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateDec 18, 2017

In the footsteps of Jacques Cousteau

A team of researchers led by Eberhard Gischler analyzed the Blue Hole stalactite recovered in 1970, revealing concentric layers that detail climate conditions since the last ice age. The study provides new insights into paleo-environmental conditions and storm patterns.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalJournal of Sedimentary Research·DateDec 18, 2017

Men gave more talks than women at top 50 universities in US

A new study found that male professors gave over twice as many talks as female professors at top 50 US universities during the 2013-2014 academic year. Despite equal levels of perceived importance and acceptance rates for speaking invitations, male speakers dominated departmental talks.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2017

Tiny bilirubin-filled capsules could improve survival of transplanted pancreatic cells

Researchers have developed tiny bilirubin-filled capsules that can improve the survival rates of transplanted pancreatic islet cells. This breakthrough has implications for treating Type 1 diabetes in both canine and human patients, with a potential treatment program for dogs that could lead to improved treatments for humans.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalCell Transplantation·DateDec 18, 2017

College completion and health among disadvantaged minorities

Researchers found that college graduates from minority groups exhibited lower rates of depression than non-graduates, despite experiencing socioeconomic disadvantages in childhood. However, black and Hispanic college graduates showed higher rates of metabolic syndrome compared to their noncollege counterparts.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2017

Direct amygdala stimulation can enhance human memory

Researchers found that direct electrical stimulation of the human amygdala can enhance next-day recognition of images, with a significant boost in memory performance. The study used low-level current and showed an improvement in memory recall for patients with epilepsy and average memory performance.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2017

What factors affect quality of life in older patients with cancer?

A new study found that factors such as persistent symptoms, comorbidities, leisure-time physical activity, and financial challenges affect health-related quality of life in older adults with cancer. The research highlights the importance of comprehensive care that addresses these factors to improve outcomes for this vulnerable population.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateDec 18, 2017

Nanoscale super-resonator extends light lifetime

Researchers create a subwavelength dielectric resonator that can trap light for an extended period due to destructive interference, allowing for more efficient optical devices. The structure is capable of suppressing energy leakage and keeping light for ten times longer than conventional resonators.

SourceITMO University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 18, 2017

Viruses can transfer genes across the superkingdoms of life

New research reveals that viruses can transfer genes to organisms from different superkingdoms, including bacteria and complex organisms like plants and animals. This discovery suggests that viruses may have originated from primitive cells and could be a source of new genes for cellular organisms.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateDec 18, 2017

Sugar-coated world

Glycans are complex structures composed of sugar molecules that play vital roles in cell communication, immunity, and inflammation. Researchers have created a library of enzymes to study glycans' functions, revealing their importance in health and disease. This discovery may lead to new diagnostics and therapeutics for various conditions.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateDec 18, 2017

New vaccine technology shows promise as a tool to combat the opioid crisis

Researchers developed an experimental heroin vaccine that induces antibodies blocking the drug's effects, preventing euphoria and addictive properties. The vaccine appears to dampen the impact of heroin at high doses, potentially preventing overdose. Antibodies induced by the vaccine do not cross-react with therapies for opioid misuse.

SourceThe U.S. Military HIV Research Program (MHRP)·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateDec 18, 2017

China's one-child generation not so selfish after all

A study by Hiroshima University challenges the stereotype that China's one-child generation is selfish and individualistic. The research found that this generation is just as cooperative as preceding generations of Chinese workers, with an average score of 3.86 on a five-point scale for willingness to cooperate in the workplace.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalJournal of the Asia Pacific Economy·DateDec 18, 2017

Is Chinese massage an effective and cost-effective treatment for chronic neck pain?

A new study evaluated the effectiveness of Chinese massage, tuina, in patients with chronic neck pain. The results showed a clinically relevant decrease in mean neck pain intensity and improved function among those who received tuina treatment. Tuina was found to be a cost-effective alternative to no treatment.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateDec 18, 2017

MiNT protein a fresh target to attack disease

A team of researchers at Rice University has detailed the structure of MiNT protein, which balances forces in cells' mitochondria. This discovery could provide a new target to treat cancer, diabetes and other diseases by regulating iron and reactive oxygen species.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2017

The shrinking moose of Isle Royale

A 40-year study on Isle Royale moose reveals a 16% decline in skull size, indicating smaller individuals and shorter lives, likely linked to climate warming. The population's growth may be an imbalance in the predator-prey dynamics, with wolves' decline contributing to malnutrition.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateDec 18, 2017

Making larvae count

Researchers used genetic barcoding to identify and quantify fish larvae in a coral reef ecosystem, revealing species distribution and dispersal patterns. The study solved several mysteries, including the invasion of a puffer fish into the Mediterranean, and provided new insights into the ecology of the reefs.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 18, 2017

How teens learn about others

A new study reveals that teenagers are slower to learn about their peers' preferences due to underdeveloped brain regions. The fusiform cortex and medial prefrontal cortex, responsible for understanding mental states, show ongoing development during adolescence, which may explain these differences.

Juggling bills may be key at-risk indicator for food insecurity

A new study from the University of Illinois reveals that people who are juggling bills and using financial coping strategies may be at risk for food insecurity. The researchers used data from the Hunger in America 2014 survey to show that these strategies can help identify individuals who are very food insecure or at risk.

Researchers repurpose immune-activating cytokine to fight breast cancer

Researchers have discovered that interferon-β can impair the migration and formation of tumors in triple-negative breast cancer cells, suggesting a potential new treatment option for patients. Elevated interferon-β levels in breast tissue correlate with extended patient survival and lower cancer recurrence rates.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2017

For stroke patients, rating scales predict discharge destination

A systematic review of nine studies found that standardized outcome measures like the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) can predict stroke patients' discharge destinations. Patients with higher scores on these scales are more likely to be discharged home, while those with lower...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalJournal of Neurologic Physical Therapy·DateDec 18, 2017

The 'ship of the desert'

The project investigates the camel's ability to conserve water in a desert environment, using a molecular dialogue between the brain and kidney. By analyzing the camel's genome and gene expression, researchers aim to understand how animals adapt to deserts and climate change.

Negative portrayals of shooting victims lead to victim blaming

A new study by researchers at Duke University found that negative portrayals of shooting victims can lead to victim blaming and sympathize with the shooter. The study showed that participants favored lighter sentences for the shooter when given a negative biographical sketch about the victim, regardless of their race.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Social Issues·DateDec 18, 2017

Researchers find racial disparities in intensity of care at the end of life

Researchers discovered significant racial disparities in hospital admission, emergency department visits, and hospice disenrollment among African American and white patients at the end of life. Black patients were more likely to experience higher-intensity care, which may negatively impact their quality of life and caregiver burden.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateDec 18, 2017

Human societies evolve along similar paths

A new study reveals that human societies have evolved in predictable ways, becoming more complex over time despite surface differences. The Seshat database captures this trend, showing a single dimension of complexity that structures global variation in social organisation.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2017

Can brain lesions contribute to criminal behavior?

Research reveals that brain lesions affecting a specific network involved in moral decision-making are more common among individuals exhibiting criminal behavior. This finding highlights the potential link between brain dysfunction and crime, but also emphasizes that genetic, environmental, and social factors play important roles.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2017

Minorities don't receive same health benefits of college completion as white peers

A new study from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill reveals that black and Hispanic young adults from disadvantaged childhoods face worse physical health risks despite completing college. College completion is linked to improved mental health, but not necessarily better physical health outcomes for minority individuals.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2017

How fungi helped create life as we know it

University of Leeds scientists find fungi essential for establishing breathable atmosphere by transferring phosphorus to plants. The amount of phosphorus transferred could have dramatically altered the ancient atmosphere, influencing the timing of oxygen generation.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateDec 18, 2017

Routines, practice and mental rehearsal mitigate some risks of armed self-defense

Researchers identified three types of risk-mitigation strategies: readiness practices (routines), simulated scenario practices (target shooting and training), and mentally-rehearsed scenarios. These efforts decrease some risk but cannot fully prepare individuals for actual self-defense situations, which can pose unexpected risks.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of the Association for Consumer Research·DateDec 18, 2017

A radical approach to methane oxidation into methanol

Researchers at Osaka University have created a radical reaction that converts methane into methanol and formic acid using a clean, low-temperature process. The process achieves this goal without the need for high temperatures or pressures, converting over 99% of methane into the target products.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 18, 2017

Illuminated: The mechanism behind shear thinning in supercooled liquids

Two researchers at The University of Tokyo's Institute of Industrial Science have revealed new insights into the behavior of supercooled liquids when they are made to flow by shearing. They found that the two-body structural entropy is the key quantity to understanding shear thinning, which is an industrially very important process.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2017

Radiosurgery or whole-brain radiation in patients with multiple brain metastases?

Researchers have discovered that radiosurgery can be an effective treatment option for patients with four or more brain lesions, even when the number of deposits exceeds the traditional three-lesion threshold. The study found no significant difference in survival rates between patients treated with radiosurgery for 4-10 metastases and ...

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateDec 18, 2017

Restoring aging genes in rats

Researchers found that overexpressing FKBP1b restored gene expression in hippocampal neurons, improving water maze performance and reversing age-related memory impairments in rats. The study suggests addressing FKBP1b deficiency may be a new avenue for countering age-related memory loss.

The body's street sweepers

A new study reveals that platelets actively migrate to sites of infection, collecting bacteria into aggregates and facilitating the activation of neutrophils. This active function has significant implications for our understanding of immune defense and potential therapeutic targets for inflammation reactions.

Orbital mayhem around a red dwarf

Researchers at UNIGE detected an exoplanet with a highly inclined orbit around a red dwarf star, evading circular motion and instead following a polar path. This unusual behavior is attributed to the presence of an unknown companion planet that disturbs its path.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·DateDec 18, 2017