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Science News for May 4, 2017


In home healthcare, not speaking patients' native language negatively affect care outcomes

A recent study by NYU and the Visiting Nurse Service of New York found that only 18.1% of RN visits and 26.7% of PT visits with LEP patients were language concordant, pointing to a lack of understanding of the language capacity of the US healthcare workforce. This highlights the need for more research on this subject and the implementa...

SourceNew York University·JournalHome Health Care Management & Practice·DateMay 4, 2017

Results of prospective randomized phase III study of the EBMT (Ricmac trial) dose-reduced versus standard conditioning followed by allogeneic stem cell transplantation for patients with myelodysplastic syndrome

The RICMAC trial found that dose-reduced conditioning followed by allogeneic stem cell transplantation improved overall and relapse-free survival for patients with myelodysplastic syndrome. Engraftment rates were comparable between the two groups, with higher non-relapse mortality after standard conditioning.

SourceEuropean Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMay 4, 2017

Study unravels the genetics of childhood 'overgrowth'

A recent study has identified genetic mutations in 14 genes as the primary cause of childhood overgrowth syndromes, which are characterized by excessive growth and intellectual disability. The researchers found that these genes play a crucial role in epigenetic regulation, controlling how and when other genes are expressed.

SourceInstitute of Cancer Research·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMay 4, 2017

Water, water, nowhere

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh's Swanson School of Engineering have found that graphane could transport protons without water, potentially leading to more efficient hydrogen fuel cells. The unusual properties of graphane enable it to rapidly conduct protons across a membrane, making it suitable for anhydrous conditions.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 4, 2017

Heart failure is as 'malignant' as some common cancers

A new analysis reveals heart failure patients experience worse survival rates than prostate cancer and breast cancer survivors, but better outcomes compared to lung cancer and ovarian cancer. The study highlights the continued burden of heart failure as a major public health concern.

SourceWiley·JournalEuropean Journal of Heart Failure·DateMay 4, 2017

Optical spectroscopy improves predictive assessment of kidney function

Researchers developed a technique using multimodal autofluorescence and light scattering to evaluate kidney function after ischemic injury. The study suggests that variations in tissue microstructure, fluorophore emission, and blood absorption spectral characteristics contribute to the behavior of recorded signals.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateMay 4, 2017

Bravery may cost fish their lives

A study by Lund University found that bold common roaches, known for their bravery, are twice as likely to be eaten by cormorants. Shyer individuals, on the other hand, survive to a greater extent in the wild. The researchers' focus on behavioral traits rather than morphology provides new insights into predator-prey interactions.

SourceLund University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 4, 2017

Hand osteoarthritis is a common condition

A new study estimates that nearly half of the population will develop hand osteoarthritis, affecting hand strength and function. Individuals with obesity are at a significantly increased risk, highlighting the need for public health and clinical interventions to address this common condition.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateMay 4, 2017

3-D printers open new design space for wireless devices

Duke researchers have created 3D-printed electromagnetic metamaterials with potential to revolutionize the design and prototyping of radio frequency applications. The use of a highly conductive material, Electrifi, enables rapid construction of complex devices and accelerates the design process.

SourceDuke University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMay 4, 2017

For people with Down syndrome, varying test results can make it harder to get the right vision prescription

A study found that people with Down syndrome experienced nearly three times greater variability in autorefractor testing compared to a control group. This increased variability can lead to incorrect vision prescriptions and reduced chances of reaching the best possible refraction for those with Down syndrome.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalOptometry and Vision Science·DateMay 4, 2017

Study: Models that forecast impact of government spending are easily manipulated

Researchers at North Carolina State University and Indiana University found that widely used government spending models can be rigged using assumptions to control forecasts. They developed an impartial version of the model, which suggests every dollar of increased government spending results in more than a dollar's worth of GDP growth.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAmerican Economic Review·DateMay 4, 2017

The liver increases by half during the day

In a study published in Cell, researchers found that liver size in mice increases by almost half before returning to its initial dimensions. The fluctuations are influenced by the rhythm of food intake and physical activity. The discovery sheds light on how our circadian clock affects liver function.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCell·DateMay 4, 2017

Deadly nanoparcel for cancer cells

Scientists develop a hybrid nanomaterial that releases a free-radical-generating prodrug inside tumor cells, destroying them even in oxygen-depleted conditions. The material damages cells by a ROS-type radical mechanism without the need for oxygen.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMay 4, 2017

Snow in Hawai'i: What does the future hold?

A regional climate model predicts that future Hawaiian snowfalls will decrease dramatically, with average winter snowfall expected to be ten times less than present day amounts by the end of the century. The study provides insights into the benefits of model downscaling and highlights the need for monitoring climate change in the region.

Climate change, tornadoes and mobile homes: A dangerous mix

A new study by Michigan State University researchers found that climate change will increase the annual impact of tornadoes on mobile homes, with a predicted threefold rise over the next few decades. The study highlights the vulnerability of mobile home residents to tornado-related fatalities and recommends policy changes to reduce risk.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalRegional Science and Urban Economics·DateMay 4, 2017

Unlocking the barrier

A recent study from Harvard Medical School revealed the surprising role of omega-3 fatty acids in maintaining the blood-brain barrier's impermeable nature. By suppressing transcytosis, these essential fatty acids inhibit the formation of caveolae, a type of vesicle that facilitates molecule transport across cells.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNeuron·DateMay 4, 2017

Scientists use satellites to count endangered birds from space

Researchers can now count individual birds on remote islands using high-resolution satellite images, allowing for more accurate monitoring of endangered albatross populations. This innovative method is a significant step forward in tracking these iconic birds, which breed in some of the world's most inaccessible locations.

SourceWiley·JournalIbis·DateMay 4, 2017

Reasons for eczema susceptibility uncovered

Researchers at Newcastle University have identified the key role of filaggrin in triggering eczema by creating a human model system that mimics the skin condition. This discovery provides new understanding of the mechanisms involved and suggests targets for future drug development.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateMay 4, 2017

Treatment seeks to address exacerbations of COPD

A new study investigates the use of oxygen therapy via high-flow nasal tubes in patients with COPD experiencing exacerbations. The short-term trial found lower retained carbon dioxide levels compared to standard oxygen therapy, suggesting a potential benefit.

SourceWiley·JournalRespirology·DateMay 4, 2017

Improving control of age-related obesity

A team of researchers has discovered that the epigenetic enzyme Lsd1 plays a key role in maintaining beige adipocytes, which burn fat to generate heat. By targeting this gene, they were able to prevent premature transformation of beige to white adipose tissue and reduce metabolic disorders.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 2017

Trash into treasure: Sandia could help biofuel pay for itself with goods made from waste

Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have made a breakthrough in converting lignin, plant waste from biofuel production, into useful products like renewable plastics and fabrics. The discovery of LigM enzyme has opened a path toward new molecules and marketable products, potentially making biofuels competitive with petroleum.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 2017

COBRE to focus on women's reproductive health

The COBRE for Reproductive Health aims to develop research infrastructure for a center supporting interdisciplinary research in women's reproductive health. Four investigators will focus on understanding mechanisms of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and prematurity using pre-clinical models and computational approaches.

Can trusting your doctor help reduce pain?

A new study by Dr. Elizabeth Losin suggests that clinician-patient similarity and trust can significantly reduce pain during medical procedures. Patients who trusted their doctor and felt similar to them reported less pain, with those experiencing higher anxiety levels showing greater reductions in pain.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalJournal of Pain·DateMay 4, 2017

Lessons in inhumanity

A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine reveals that Nazi-era physicians were required to study medical ethics in German medical schools, with a focus on the 'people's body' over individual health. This challenges the notion of medical ethics as a universal construct.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 4, 2017

New technology measures small-scale currents that transport ocean plastics, oil spills

Researchers at the University of Miami Rosenstiel School developed a new technique to measure near-surface ocean currents using a specialized video camera. This innovation can help scientists predict the fate of spilled oil and other marine pollutants, improving disaster response and understanding pollutant transport.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalJournal of Atmospheric and Oceanic Technology·DateMay 4, 2017

Researchers develop new capabilities for genome-wide engineering of yeast

Researchers have successfully integrated cutting-edge technologies to produce novel yeast strains for industrial use, as well as reveal a more sophisticated understanding of the yeast genome. The new method enables exploration of all genes in yeast, identifying previously unknown functions.

For richer or poorer, we all eat fast food

A nationwide study found middle-income Americans were most likely to eat fast food, with rich people also consuming fast food regularly. The study also showed that people with changing income levels didn't alter their eating habits, and heavy users of fast food often have less leisure time.

SourceOhio State University·JournalEconomics & Human Biology·DateMay 4, 2017

Holography with the Wi-fi-router

Researchers at TUM create holographic imaging process using Wi-Fi data to generate 3D images of the surrounding environment. This technology allows for centimeter-scale precision and can be used in industrial facilities to track objects as they move, improving efficiency and accuracy.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 4, 2017

New intervention brings hope to patients with primary progressive aphasia

A new group language intervention has been developed to help individuals with primary progressive aphasia (PPA) maintain their communication abilities. The 10-week intervention includes working on language activities and learning communication strategies, resulting in improved or unchanged communication assessments for patients.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalJournal of Communication Disorders·DateMay 4, 2017

Scientists solve major cancer protein conundrum

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute uncover how a protein called angiomotin regulates the Hippo-YAP pathway, a key signaling system in cells that controls cell growth and division. The study sheds light on the protein's role in cancer development and provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying diseases such as fibrosis.