Tiny plants with huge potential
Researchers found that duckweeds, particularly Wolffia globosa, have comparable protein content to lupins, rape, or peas. They also contain valuable omega-3 fatty acids like stearidonic acid and alpha-linolenic acid.
Science News for January 12, 2017
Mapping movements of alien bird species
A global map of alien bird species shows that human activities are the main determinants of their presence, but also highlights areas with rich native bird species as hotspots for alien species. The study found a significant increase in bird introductions since World War II and suggests that economic factors contribute to the spread of...
Keys to hunting behavior tucked deep into vertebrate brain
A new study by Yale University suggests that two sets of neurons deep in the forebrain control hunting behavior, enabling precise muscle control and increased efficiency. The central amygdala region is preserved in almost all vertebrates, suggesting its importance in evolution.
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.
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.
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.
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.
IUPUI study: Training computers to differentiate between people with the same name
Researchers developed a novel-machine learning method to distinguish people with common names, focusing on relational features, text features, and venue features. The new approach is an improvement over existing methods, enabling the identification of previously unencountered individuals.
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.
Markers for prostate cancer death can identify men in need of more aggressive treatment
Researchers found that a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) nadir greater than 0.5 ng/mL following radiation and androgen deprivation therapy identifies men prior to PSA failure who are at high risk for dying early. This marker can help identify men in need of more aggressive treatment, potentially making it curable.
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.
Can we produce a better wheat crop to feed the world? Single to multiple wheat genomics
Researchers at the Earlham Institute have developed a new method for improving wheat crop yield quality using bioinformatics tools. The w2rap pipeline enables robust and efficient genome assembly, which will aid in precision breeding and increase global food security.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Mother-daughter conflict between killer whales can explain the evolution of menopause
A study published in Current Biology found that killer whales are one of only three known species to go through menopause due to reproductive conflict with their daughters. Older mothers suffer higher costs competing to reproduce alongside their daughters, leading to a mortality rate 1.7 times higher for younger mothers' offspring.
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.
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.
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.
'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.
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.
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.
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.
Major grant awarded to resolve debate on treatment after major surgery
A $1.5m grant has been awarded by Edwards Lifesciences to investigate the impact of cardiac output-guided fluid therapy on patients undergoing major gut surgery, with 2,502 patients expected to participate in the trial.
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.
New study in Neurosurgery finds overlapping surgery is safe and efficient
Overlapping surgeries showed improved patient recovery factors, such as shorter hospital stays and lower mortality rates. However, researchers caution that younger and healthier patients were more likely to benefit from this type of procedure.
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.
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.
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.
Awareness of biases is key to better health care decisions, says GSA
The Gerontological Society of America has released a new publication to help healthcare professionals overcome common heuristics and cognitive biases that can lead to poor decision making. Awareness of these biases is key to making informed decisions, according to the report.
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.
New drug in development shows improved survival for patients with advanced metastat
Lutetium-177-Dotatate has shown improved progression-free survival and response rates compared to octreotide alone in patients with advanced disease. The treatment also experienced higher risk of adverse events, but these were manageable and reversible.
SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·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.
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.
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.
Changing atmospheric conditions may contribute to stronger ocean waves in Antarctica
A new study led by Colorado State University suggests that a shift in the Southern Annular Mode, similar to El Nino, can lead to stronger ocean waves and the collapse of ice shelves. The research found that reduced sea ice cover allows ocean waves to directly impact ice shelves, enhancing surface melting and weakening ice shelves.
Does recent randomized prostate cancer trial provide insights on best treatment?
A recent randomized trial compared active monitoring, surgery, and radiation therapy for localized prostate cancer. The study's results may be limited by differences in the active monitoring protocol and advances in treatment methods.
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.
University of Miami doctors publish study of first locally acquired Zika transmission
A multidisciplinary team of University of Miami physicians published a case study detailing the nation's first locally-transmitted case of Zika. The study highlights the skin rash associated with the virus and its potential implications for future Zika screening and diagnoses.
SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·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.
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.
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.
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
Wearable biosensors can flag illness, Lyme disease, risk for diabetes; low airplane oxygen
Researchers found that smart watches can detect deviations from normal heart rate and skin temperature patterns, signaling illness onset. The study also identified a link between low blood oxygenation during flights and fatigue.
In teens, strong friendships may mitigate depression associated with excessive video gaming
Teenagers who play video games for more than four hours a day suffer from symptoms of depression, but frequent use of social media and instant messaging may mitigate symptoms of game addiction. Strong friendships appear to be a key factor in balancing out the negative effects of gaming.
SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·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.
Oral iron drug found safe and effective for treating anemia in kidney disease patients
A phase 3 trial found that oral ferric citrate significantly boosted hemoglobin levels in patients with chronic kidney disease, correcting anemia. The treatment effect was seen as early as 1-2 weeks after starting treatment and was durable.
SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJan 12, 2017
Initiative encourages international sharing of data to combat infectious disease outbreaks
The Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) facilitates the rapid sharing of information during outbreaks and builds trust with countries key to global pandemic preparedness. By collating a comprehensive repository of high-quality influenza data, GISAID contributes to global health in several ways.
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.
€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.
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.
Ocean acidification to hit West Coast Dungeness crab fishery, new assessment shows
Dungeness crabs and groundfish such as rockfish and sole are expected to decline due to ocean acidification, while coastal pelagic fish are only slightly affected. The study projects a $220 million annual value decline in Dungeness crab fisheries over the next 50 years.
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.
Conservation practices may leave African indigenous populations behind
Conservation groups in Central and West Africa are marginalizing local communities, who rely on the forest for food, shelter, and resources. The landscape-based approach prioritizes logging and development over community needs, leaving indigenous populations behind.
Here be ruby seadragons! New species seen in the wild for the first time
Researchers have discovered a new species of ruby seadragon in the wild, showcasing its intense red color and distinctive features. The fish lives at depths of over 50 meters, beyond recreational diving limits, and relies on its red color for effective camouflage.
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...
Iowa State engineer helps journal highlight how pyrolysis can advance the bioeconomy
A special issue of Energy Technology showcases recent advances in pyrolysis technologies, which convert biomass into fuels, chemicals and fertilizers. Iowa State research teams led by Brown and Brent Shanks contributed papers to the issue, exploring topics such as micropyrolyzer equipment and bio-oil processing.
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.
India was by no means as isolated as we thought
Scientists have discovered fossils of biting midges encased in amber from the Indian subcontinent, showing a strong similarity with examples from Europe and China. The findings indicate that the Indian subcontinent was not isolated during its migration towards Eurasia and Asia around 54 million years ago.
Classic video game system used to improve understanding of the brain
A study published in PLOS Computational Biology used the Atari 2600 console and Donkey Kong game to analyze the brain's neural networks. The researchers found that existing neuroscience techniques do not provide a meaningful understanding of the system.
New urine test can quickly detect whether a person has a healthy diet
A new urine test can quickly detect whether a person has a healthy diet by measuring biological markers created by the breakdown of foods. The test provides an instant indicator of whether a person is eating healthily, promising to revolutionize the way we assess diet quality.
Target freshers to halt spread of meningitis, say researchers
A campus-based vaccination campaign successfully immunised nearly three-quarters of university students against meningitis. The approach is now being highlighted as best practice by Public Health England. Researchers recommend offering the MenACWY vaccine to first-year university students to prevent cases of meningitis.
Macaques, like humans, know how well they can recall memories
Researchers identified a specific region in the prefrontal brain essential for metamemory decision making in macaques. Inactivation of this region impaired metamemory but not memory itself, offering insights into the neuronal underpinnings of metacognition.
Malaria elimination: Vaccines should be tested on larger groups of volunteers
Researchers developed a mathematical model to determine the minimum number of people required for a good vaccine trial. Testing candidate vaccines on larger groups can accelerate the discovery of an effective vaccine against malaria, ultimately leading to its elimination.
Modeling magma to find copper
Researchers from Université de Genève and Saint-Etienne propose a new method to estimate the size of metal deposits by modeling magma degassing. This approach uses high-precision geochronology and could identify deposits with the best potential early in the exploration process.
Why are Australia's shrublands like 'knee-high tropical rainforests'?
A new study found that diverse shrublands in South-Western Australia thrive due to beneficial root-associated organisms. The research suggests that these microorganisms equalize growth differences between plant species, allowing for long-term coexistence in highly competitive environments.
UTHealth study outlines framework for identifying disease risk in genome sequence
Researchers at UTHealth have developed a framework to analyze genome sequences and identify genetic variations that raise or lower disease risk. The study used genomic data from over 3,000 individuals and identified genes related to blood lipid levels, white blood cell count, and heart attack diagnosis.
SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 12, 2017
Wearable sensors can tell when you are getting sick, Stanford study shows
Researchers at Stanford Medicine used wearable sensors to monitor health data from 60 participants, revealing patterns of deviation that correlate with specific health problems. The study demonstrated the potential for wearable devices to monitor illness before symptoms appear, making them a valuable tool in precision health.
New research explores the effect of winter dormancy on cold-blooded cognition
A new study published in Scientific Reports found that brumation, the winter dormancy of cold-blooded animals, does not affect memory retention in salamanders. Researchers trained salamanders to navigate a maze and tested their ability to recall the path after a period of brumation.
Sleep health program reduces firefighter disability and injury
A recent study published in SLEEP found that a workplace-based Sleep Health Program significantly reduced the risk of injuries and long-term disability among firefighters. The program, which included sleep health education and screening for sleep disorders, resulted in a nearly 50% reduction in disability days.
Reef fish that conquer fear of sharks may help control excess algae
A study from the University of California, Davis found that reef fish are willing to overcome their fear of sharks and eat algae in danger zones. This behavior can help counteract excess algae growth in coral reefs threatened by nutrient pollution.
There's no one-size-fits-all solution to climate change
A new study suggests that carbon finance is not a one-size-fits-all solution to climate change, as its effectiveness varies widely depending on the region. Peat forests in Indonesia are found to be crucial for reducing carbon emissions, with potential rewards of $3.5 billion over 30 years.
Cholera bacteria infect more effectively with a simple twist of shape
A study by Princeton University found that Vibrio cholerae can more easily infect the intestines when curved due to a protein called CrvA. The bacteria's ability to change shape plays a critical role in its infection and reproduction.
Study looks at strategies used by African-American women facing intimate partner violence
African-American women use various coping mechanisms to survive intimate partner violence, including religion, external support, and fighting back. The study's findings highlight the need for a more nuanced understanding of IPV and encourage bystander intervention.
T cells join the fight against Zika
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have discovered that CD8+ T cells, a subset of killer T cells, control Zika infection and limit disease severity. The study provides a new tool to track Zika-specific T cells, which can help understand the virus's transmission and neurological complications.
Biologists discover how viruses hijack cell's machinery
Researchers at UC San Diego have documented how large viruses reprogram bacterial cells to resemble animal or human cells, allowing them to mass-produce new viral particles that eventually kill the infected cells. The study reveals a previously unknown mechanism of viral replication in bacteria.
New research sheds light on why older mothers more likely to face birth complications
New research identifies physiological changes in the body that could explain why older mothers are more likely to experience complicated births. The study found that maternal age influences the structure of the uterus, leading to impaired muscle contraction properties, reduced sensitivity to oxytocin, and altered hormonal signals.
High-resolution pH imaging elucidates energy mechanisms in creating bacterial flagella
The study reveals that ATP hydrolysis and proton motive force play crucial roles in protein export for flagella construction. High-resolution pH imaging detects small but significant differences in intracellular pH, proposing the use of both ATP and protons to achieve protein export.
Benefits of renting a home may be underrated
A new study by University of Stirling researcher Dr Isaac Tabner suggests that households should carefully consider the costs of renting versus buying a home. The research highlights that even during favorable economic conditions, households may need to own their home for several years before buying becomes financially more advantageous.
Crybaby: The vitamins in your tears
Researchers found a correlation between parents' and babies' vitamin levels, with water-soluble vitamins higher in infants and fat-soluble vitamins in parents, particularly mothers. The study suggests tears could be used to replace clinical tests, potentially improving access to nutritional assessments for at-risk populations.
Why do killer whales go through menopause? Mother-daughter conflict is key
A study on killer whales found that older females stop reproducing due to conflict with their daughters, which helps younger family members survive. This evolutionary trait is driven by both cooperation and competition within the family group.
How well do we understand the relation between incorrect chromosome number & cancer?
Researchers found that cells with an extra chromosome grew more slowly and formed smaller tumors than comparable cells with normal chromosome number. However, after weeks of growth, these cells rapidly evolved to acquire new mutations that enabled them to grow rapidly.
Malaria transmission may increase when more parasites are transferred via mosquito bite
A new study suggests that mosquitoes carrying a greater number of malaria-causing parasites are more likely to cause infection in humans. The researchers found that injecting more parasites with each bite increases the chances of malaria transmission.
Exercise ... It does a body good: 20 minutes can act as anti-inflammatory
Researchers at University of California San Diego School of Medicine found that one session of moderate exercise can stimulate the immune system, producing an anti-inflammatory cellular response. This benefits individuals with chronic inflammatory diseases such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and obesity.
Microbes rule in 'knee-high tropical rainforests'
Researchers found that plants' choice of microbial teammates influences a suite of plant-soil interactions, driving high diversity in shrublands. The study revealed positive and negative feedbacks between plants and microbes, with nutrient-acquisition strategies playing a crucial role.
Sanford neurosurgeon's pediatric stroke case published in national journal
A 9-day-old baby who suffered a normally fatal stroke was saved after Dr. Alexander Drofa removed the clot by combining mechanical and medicinal therapies. The infant's coma made the case particularly challenging.
Melanoma mutation likes fat for fuel
Research in mice suggests that melanomas and other cancers driven by BRAF V600E mutation will grow faster in response to a high-fat diet. Lipid-lowering agents such as statins can slow tumor growth, even on normal diets. The findings highlight the potential of precision diets tailored to individual patients' cancer mutations.
Improving longevity of functionally integrated stem cells in regenerative vision therapy
Stem cell therapies aim to restore function in degenerative conditions, but ensuring cell survival is a major hurdle. Researchers successfully restored long-term vision in blind mice by transplanting photoreceptors derived from human stem cells and suppressing the immune response that rejects transplanted cells.
Huntsman Cancer Institute research holds promise for personalized lung cancer treatments
Scientists at Huntsman Cancer Institute discovered distinct types of tumors within small cell lung cancer that respond differently to treatment. A targeted drug combination showed improved outcomes for one specific tumor type, suggesting a need for genetic testing and personalized therapies.
Swimming for science
A team of researchers from NYU Tandon School of Engineering has developed a 3D platform to simulate zebrafish behavior, which can potentially replace animal testing in certain types of research. The model was calibrated on real-life data and allows for rapid simulations that reduce the need for animal subjects.
Malaria infection depends on number of parasites, not number of mosquito bites
Researchers at Imperial College London found that the number of parasites in mosquitoes influences malaria infection success rates. This discovery has implications for vaccine development and understanding disease transmission.
Viruses in the genome important for our brain
A study by Lund University researchers reveals that retroviruses in the human genome can affect gene expression, potentially contributing to brain development and neurological diseases. The viruses, known as endogenous retroviruses, can act as docking platforms for proteins like TRIM28, influencing protein production.
Twenty-five frogs added to the amphibian fauna of Mount Oku, Cameroon
A new study adds 25 frog species to the known fauna of Mount Oku, Cameroon, highlighting a staggering 48% of the amphibians as threatened with extinction. The researchers also review the region's conservation efforts and identify key threats such as forest loss, climate change, and diseases.
UTA study shows exercise, diet could offset effects of malaria
Research by UTA professors Marco Brotto and Mauro Marrelli shows that a healthy diet and regular exercise can mitigate damage to the heart and skeletal muscles caused by malaria. The study highlights the importance of addressing the impact of malaria on these areas, which is often overlooked in previous studies.
Study: Vulnerable young women of color most likely to need abortion financial assistance
A study published in Social Work in Health Care found that vulnerable young women of color are more likely to need abortion financial assistance due to limited resources. The research suggests that the longer it takes for patients to gather funding, the longer the procedure is delayed, increasing costs.