Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive January 2017 - Page 3


Page 3 of 35

Researchers shed light on how viruses enter the intestine

A recent study has provided the first details of how enteroviruses, which cause millions of infections worldwide annually, may enter the body through the intestine. The researchers used a mini-gut model to demonstrate that echovirus 11 induced significant damage to intestinal cells, facilitating passage into the bloodstream.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 2017

'Mini-guts' offer clues to pediatric GI illness

Enteroviruses cause millions of infections worldwide, with infant fatality rates approaching 20 percent. A new study uses a miniature gut model to reveal how these viruses enter the intestine, targeting specific cells and facilitating bloodstream entry.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 2017

Scientists uncover possible therapeutic targets for rare autism spectrum disorder

Researchers have discovered 30 genes as potential therapeutic targets for reversing Rett syndrome, a severe form of an autism spectrum disorder affecting approximately 15,000 girls and women globally. The study, led by Dr. Antonio Bedalov at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, aims to reactivate the silenced MeCP2 gene in affected individuals.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 2017

Computer work dominates physician workday

A recent study by the American College of Physicians found that physicians spend significantly more time on computer activities than direct patient interaction, taking up about half their workday. This has led to concerns over physician satisfaction, patient education, and increased malpractice risks.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 30, 2017

New study looks at LGBT allies in college sports

A new study assesses the ally behaviors of college athletes, revealing that female athletes are more likely to identify as LGBT allies. The research also highlights the crucial role that non-LGBT identified athletes play in creating a safe environment for LGBT student-athletes, which can positively impact team cohesion and performance.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Intercollegiate Sport·DateJan 30, 2017

People infected with HIV may be more susceptible to diabetes

Research suggests that people infected with HIV may be more susceptible to developing diabetes, with a prevalence nearly 4% higher than the general public. Despite obesity being a key risk factor, the study found that HIV positive adults are at heightened risk of diabetes at younger ages and in its absence.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care·DateJan 30, 2017

Cell-tracking agents get a boost

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new compound of bismuth and carbon nanotubes that improves upon existing cell-tracking agents. The improved Bi4C@US-tubes show up strongly on X-rays taken with computed tomography (CT) scanners, allowing for more efficient tracking of stem cells in the body.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 30, 2017

Where the cladocerans came from

Researchers from Lomonosov Moscow State University discover that Cladocerans originated from the north and spread throughout the Palearctic region via Beringia, a land bridge that closed and reopened multiple times. The study uses molecular genetic analysis to shed light on the evolution and dispersal of these small crustaceans.

Researchers identify mechanism in chikungunya virus that controls infection and severity

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health identified a mechanism by which the chikungunya virus controls infection severity. The study found that all alphaviruses and coronaviruses may work in the same way, and that breaking a specific protein bond can prevent viral replication.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 30, 2017

UTHealth study: 78 percent of hospital workers in Houston are overweight or obese

A recent UTHealth study found that 78 percent of hospital employees in Houston are overweight or obese. Despite a generally low intake of fruits and vegetables, participants showed significant differences in daily consumption patterns between normal weight, overweight, and obese groups.

SourceUniversity of Texas Health Science Center at Houston·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateJan 30, 2017

Preventing blood clots with a new metric for heart function

Researchers developed a new metric to predict blood clots in the left ventricle, which is more accurate than current methods. The E-wave propagation index can be calculated using standard diagnostic tools and clinical procedures, and has been validated with data from patients who experienced post-heart attack blood clots.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalInternational Journal of Cardiology·DateJan 30, 2017

Natural World Heritage Sites hammered by human activities

A University of Queensland-led study warns that over 100 Natural World Heritage Sites are being destroyed by encroaching human activities, with 63% experiencing increased Human Footprint over the past two decades. The most impacted sites were found in Asia, including India and Indonesia, which have suffered significant deforestation.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalBiological Conservation·DateJan 30, 2017

Practice makes perfect, and 'overlearning' locks it in

A Brown University study finds that overlearning visual perception tasks strengthens learning and prevents interference, while a longer break between tasks allows for similar performance on both. The study suggests that a temporary shift in neurotransmitter balance is key to the effect of overlearning.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 30, 2017

Antibiotics can boost bacterial reproduction

Researchers at the University of Exeter found that antibiotics can boost bacterial reproduction in E.coli, leading to increased resistance and faster mutation rates. The study discovered that mutated bacteria reproduced faster than before encountering antibiotics and formed populations three times larger due to mutations.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateJan 30, 2017

Patient study suggests broader genetic testing for colorectal cancer risk

A recent study among over 1000 colorectal cancer patients found that about 10% carry mutations associated with increased cancer susceptibility. The research recommends genetic testing for all patients to identify these risks and prevent future cases. This expanded approach could also benefit at-risk family members by providing earlier ...

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 30, 2017