Monday, September 16, 2019

Science X Newsletter Monday, Sep 16

Dear Reader ,

Here is your customized Science X Newsletter for September 16, 2019:

Spotlight Stories Headlines

Study unveils a route to high hole mobility in gallium nitride

Gravity surveys using a mobile atom interferometer

Researchers advance noise cancelling for quantum computers

Nanoparticles used to transport anti-cancer agent to cells

New research identifies a climate signature in rivers globally

Astronomers detect the most massive neutron star ever measured

Atlantic Ocean may get a jump-start from the other side of the world

New route to carbon-neutral fuels from carbon dioxide discovered

Genetic mutation appears to protect some people from deadly MRSA

Breakthrough in harnessing the power of biological catalysts

Researchers study young stellar objects population in NGC 6822

New research combines sound and light waves in silicon chips to create a new type of signal processing

Using wood's natural ability to flex when drying to create curved structures

Catch-22 in graphene based molecular devices resolved

First comprehensive structural data on a key flu protein—it's central to infection

Astronomy & Space news

Astronomers detect the most massive neutron star ever measured

West Virginia University researchers have helped discover the most massive neutron star to date, a breakthrough uncovered through the Green Bank Telescope in Pocahontas County.

Researchers study young stellar objects population in NGC 6822

Using NASA's Spitzer spacecraft, astronomers have conducted a comprehensive study of massive young stellar objects (YSOs) in the metal-poor galaxy NGC 6822. The research, detailed in a paper published September 9 on the arXiv pre-print repository, resulted in identifying hundreds of new YSOs in this galaxy.

Rare metallic asteroids might have erupted molten iron

The metallic asteroid Psyche has mystified scientists because it is less dense than it should be, given its iron-nickel composition. Now, a new theory could explain Psyche's low density and metallic surface.

The galaxy cluster Abell 959

Most galaxies lie in clusters containing from a few to thousands of objects. Our Milky Way, for example, belongs to the Local Group, a cluster of about fifty galaxies whose other large member is the Andromeda galaxy about 2.3 million light-years away. Clusters are the most massive gravitationally bound objects in the universe and form (according to current ideas) in a "bottoms-up" fashion with smaller structures developing first and larger groupings assembling later in cosmic history.

The stellar nurseries of distant galaxies

Star clusters are formed by the condensation of molecular clouds, masses of cold, dense gas that are found in every galaxy. The physical properties of these clouds in our own galaxy and nearby galaxies have been known for a long time. But are they identical in distant galaxies that are more than 8 billion light-years away? For the first time, an international team led by the University of Geneva (UNIGE) has been able to detect molecular clouds in a Milky Way progenitor, thanks to the unprecedented spatial resolution achieved in such a distant galaxy. These observations, published in Nature Astronomy, show that the distant clouds have a higher mass, density and internal turbulence than the clouds hosted in nearby galaxies and that they produce far more stars. The astronomers attribute these differences to the ambient interstellar conditions in distant galaxies, which are too extreme for the molecular clouds typical of nearby galaxies to survive.

New observations help explain the dimming of Tabby's Star

For years, astronomers have looked up at the sky and speculated about the strange dimming behavior of Tabby's Star.

Ohio senators propose renaming NASA site for Neil Armstrong

Ohio's U.S. senators want Congress to rename a NASA research facility in Ohio after astronaut Neil Armstrong.

Image: North polar dunes on Mars

This captivating image was taken in the north polar region of Mars by the ESA/Roscosmos ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter's CaSSIS camera.

NASA funds CubeSat Pathfinder mission to unique lunar orbit

The pathfinder mission represents a rapid lunar flight demonstration and could launch as early as December 2020. CAPSTONE will demonstrate how to enter into and operate in this orbit as well as test a new navigation capability. This information will help reduce logistical uncertainty for Gateway, as NASA and international partners work to ensure astronauts have safe access to the moon's surface. It will also provide a platform for science and technology demonstrations.

The visible spectrum of C/2019 Q4 (Borisov), the first confirmed interstellar comet

Shortly before dawn on September 13th, Julia de León, Miquel Serra-Ricart, Javier Licandro, all members of IAC's solar system Group, and Carlos Raúl de la Fuente Marcos, from the Complutense University of Madrid, obtained high resolution images and visible spectra of comet C/2019 Q4 (Borisov) using the OSIRIS instrument at the 10.4m GTC, installed in the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory (Garafía, La Palma). Observations were not easy, as the object could only be seen at low elevation over the horizon and small angular separation from the sun. However, thanks to the excellent atmospheric conditions of the Canarian Observatories and GTC's expert telescope support astronomers, these challenging observations were successfully completed.

Dusty vacuums may be astronauts' biggest health risk

Human lungs have proven to be remarkably adaptable to life in space, but dust may their biggest challenge, even greater than the lack of gravity, according to a leading aerospace medicine expert, writing in the Medical Journal of Australia.

What neuroscientists are learning about our brains in space by launching themselves into zero gravity flight

More than 500 people have travelled into space to date and, while we know a little about how life without gravity affects our physical health, we know almost nothing about how it affects our minds.

Brad Pitt talks weightlessness and calluses on phone call to ISS

When Brad Pitt called the International Space Station (ISS) Monday to talk to American astronaut Nick Hague, the conversation turned to the unexpected consequences of weightless life.

SOFIA in Stuttgart: First scientific research flight over Europe

On 16 September 2019 at 04:14 CEST, the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) is expected to land at Stuttgart Airport. The airborne observatory is a joint project by the US space agency NASA and the German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt; DLR). SOFIA is scheduled to take off from Stuttgart at 19:40 CEST on 18 September for its first scientific research flight over Europe, during which it will fly over 12 countries. The idea behind this is that, during its European mission, SOFIA will fly much farther north than it is able to when taking off from its home base in Palmdale, southern California. The closer the infrared observatory is able to fly to the poles, the less water vapour is present in the atmosphere above it, offering improved observing conditions.

Technology news

Researchers build microscopic biohybrid robots propelled by muscles, nerves

Researchers have developed soft robotic devices driven by neuromuscular tissue that triggers when stimulated by light—bringing mechanical engineering one step closer to developing autonomous biobots.

Simjacker exploit is independent of handset type, uses SMS attack

Trouble in smartphone security land: There is a platform-agnostic intruder—it can tally up victims regardless of the hardware or software the victims rely on. Simjacker is the name of the exploit. The team who spotted it are from AdaptiveMobile Security.

Foldables: An open-shut case of hinge worthiness is explored

Liquid powered hinges? Can they make a foldable fold better? A device able to stand up to repeated actions better? Interest in questions like that were inspired by patent buzz recently when a patent filing was discovered that centers around Microsoft and a foldable with the spotlight on its hinges.

New algorithm can distinguish cyberbullies from normal Twitter users with 90% accuracy

A team of researchers, including faculty at Binghamton University, have developed machine learning algorithms which can successfully identify bullies and aggressors on Twitter with 90 percent accuracy.

Disney CEO departs Apple's board with video showdown looming

Walt Disney Co. CEO Robert Iger has stepped down from Apple's board of directors as the two companies prepare to launch competing video streaming services aimed at market leader Netflix.

Cinema subscription service MoviePass to shut down

The owner of cinema subscription MoviePass said Friday it was shutting down the service which allowed users to see as many films as they want for a flat monthly fee.

PayPal cautious about future of Libra cryptocurrency

PayPal is cautious about the future of Facebook-backed cryptocurrency Libra, which is slated to debut with the pioneering digital payments firm as part of its oversight association.

YouTube 'creators' fret over impact of new child protection rules

Samuel Rader quit his job three years ago to work full time on his YouTube channel, "Sam and Nia," featuring videos of his family life.

Russia's world-first floating nuclear plant arrives in port

Russia's world first floating nuclear power station on Saturday completed a 5,000-kilometre (3,100-mile) Arctic transfer to the country's far east, the Rosatom nuclear agency said.

YouTube settlement latest in struggles over children

A settlement requiring Google-owned YouTube to pay $170 million and change how they serve up ads on videos aimed at children marks the latest twist in a series of controversies over content for young audiences.

The big business of classic TV for streaming giants

How many hundreds of millions of dollars would you pay for reruns of "Friends," the American version of "The Office" or "The Big Bang Theory"?

Siemens, Orascom to rebuild vast Iraq power plant

Iraq on Saturday signed a $1.3 billion deal with German industrial conglomerate Siemens and Egypt's Orascom Construction to rebuild a major power plant complex in the ravaged city of Baiji, north of Baghdad.

Blame game as wheels come off India's auto sector

When India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman claimed that a preference by millennials for ride-hailing apps was contributing to a painful slump in car sales, it sparked an online backlash from furious youngsters.

Virtual reality used to highlight uranium contamination

Activists are using virtual reality technology to focus on areas of the Navajo Nation affected by uranium contamination.

'Borderlands 3' launched Friday. Here's everything we know about video game

The video game that helped create the term "loot shooter" is back.

Apple vs. Netflix, Disney: Will bare cupboard work to overtake bulk in the streaming wars?

Disney plans to launch a new streaming service, Disney+, in November with thousands of titles from the libraries of Disney, Marvel, Pixar, Star Wars and National Geographic, as well as material from Fox as well.

General Motors auto workers call strike in US

The United Auto Workers union called a nationwide strike against General Motors Sunday, with some 46,000 members set to walk off the job beginning at midnight amid an impasse in contract talks.

VW settles Australia emissions cheating scandal

Volkswagen has agreed to pay up to Aus$127 million ($87.3 million) to settle multiple class action suits brought by Australian motorists over a diesel emissions cheating scandal, the parties' lawyers said Monday.

Welcome indoors, solar cells

Swedish and Chinese scientists have developed organic solar cells optimized to convert ambient indoor light to electricity. The power they produce is low, but is probably enough to feed the millions of products that the Internet of Things will bring online.

Using smart sensor technology in building design

Have lights turned on automatically when you walk into a room? Does the air conditioner in the conference room turn on when a certain number of people enter the room?

Cyber security of connected autonomous vehicles trialled

The privacy and security of data in CAVs has been improved thanks to WMG, University of Warwick who tested four innovations that were results of the PETRAS project. CAVs can now connect to each other, roadside infrastructure, and roadside infrastructure to each other more securely.

Americans would rather drive themselves to work than have an autonomous vehicle drive them, study says

Many Americans use a ride-hailing service—like Uber or Lyft—to get to and from work. It provides the privacy of riding in a personal car and the convenience of catching up on emails or social media during traffic jams. In the future, self-driving vehicles could provide the same service, except without a human driver.

Facebook to stop news headline changes from advertisers

Facebook said Monday it is working to stop advertisers from changing headlines in links to news stories after concerns raised by a British political party's altering of one such link.

Almost entire population of Ecuador has online data leaked

Almost the entire population of Ecuador had their personal data leaked online, security experts said Monday, a massive breach that the government called a "very delicate" issue.

Google expected to unveil new Pixel phone on Oct. 15

Google on Monday sent out invitations to an October 15 event starring "things Made by Google," with a new Pixel smartphone expected in the line-up.

No Deal: Auto workers strike against GM in contract dispute

More than 49,000 members of the United Auto Workers walked off General Motors factory floors or set up picket lines early Monday as contract talks with the company deteriorated into a strike.

EU urges US to 'make deal' in Airbus-Boeing row

The EU on Monday urged the US to make a deal to end a 15-year long Airbus-Boeing row, just days before Washington is expected to announce a raft of new tariffs in the epic tit-for-tat battle.

Algae and bacteria team up to increase hydrogen production

In line with the fight against climate change and the search for a sustainable future, there is the idea of a future society based on hydrogen used as a fuel. This biofuel of the future could be what cars and engines run on (they actually already do), but without pollution and the issue of batteries, since it is much easier to store than electrical energy.

Medicine & Health news

Genetic mutation appears to protect some people from deadly MRSA

An inherited genetic tendency appears to increase the likelihood that a person can successfully fight off antibiotic-resistant staph infections, according to a study led by Duke Health researchers.

First comprehensive structural data on a key flu protein—it's central to infection

Influenza A viruses spawn epidemics, global pandemics and sweeping outbreaks that kill millions of birds, yet only now have flu scientists obtained comprehensive, high-resolution structural data on a protein that is key to the very survival of an influenza virus.

New way to target cancer's diversity and evolution

Scientists have revealed close-up details of a vital molecule involved in the mix and match of genetic information within cells—opening up the potential to target proteins of this family to combat cancer's diversity and evolution.

Flavoring ingredient exceeds safety levels in e-cigarettes and smokeless tobacco: study

A potential carcinogen that has been banned as a food additive is present in concerningly high levels in electronic cigarette liquids and smokeless tobacco products, according to a new study from Duke Health.

Big data, bench science suggests drug may slow Parkinson's progression in people

A drug used to treat enlarged prostate may also be able to slow the progression of Parkinson's disease.

Gene mutation discovery sheds light on organ failure affecting babies

A group of scientists and clinicians from the UK, the Netherlands, Italy and the U.S. have worked together and made an important discovery that explains an often fatal organ defect that affects unborn babies and children.

MRI-guided biopsy best for determining future risk of prostate cancer, study shows

Every year, tens thousands of men in the United States are diagnosed with low-risk prostate cancer. Most are told that they don't need treatment other than "active surveillance" to monitor their slow-growing tumors. Now, UCLA physicians have shown that the best way to proceed with this is by starting out with an MRI-guided prostate biopsy.

Research suggests new approach for treating inflammation

Medications that mitigate inflammation caused by a variety of diseases including rheumatic arthritis may also compromise a person's immune system, but a new approach points to a possible solution to this problem.

Treatment for chronic neuropathic pain gets to the brain via a novel route, without surgery

University at Buffalo researchers who previously discovered how chronic neuropathic pain arises in the brain have now developed a treatment to block it.

By exploiting a feature of the immune system, researchers open the door for stem cell transplants to repair the brain

In experiments in mice, Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers say they have developed a way to successfully transplant certain protective brain cells without the need for lifelong anti-rejection drugs.

In human cells and mice, a cure for the common cold, study reports

Temporarily disabling a single protein inside our cells might be able to protect us from the common cold and other viral diseases, according to a study led by researchers at Stanford University and University of California-San Francisco.

Brain activity intensity drives need for sleep

The intensity of brain activity during the day, notwithstanding how long we've been awake, appears to increase our need for sleep, according to a new UCL study in zebrafish.

Renegade genes caught red handed

The guardians of the human genome that work to prevent potentially disease-causing gene expression might not be as effective at their jobs as previously thought, according to new University of Arizona research.

How gut bacteria negatively influences blood sugar levels

Millions of people around the world experience serious blood sugar problems which can cause diabetes, but a world first study is revealing how gut bacteria impact the normally feel good hormone serotonin to negatively influence blood sugar levels.

Don't make major decisions on an empty stomach, research suggests

We all know that food shopping when hungry is a bad idea but new research from the University of Dundee suggests that people might want to avoid making any important decisions about the future on an empty stomach.

Too much of a good thing: Overactive immune cells trigger inflammation

Scientists describe a previously unknown disorder of the immune system: in a distinct subset of immune cells from patients with primary immunodeficiency, cellular respiration is significantly increased. This cellular metabolic overactivity leads to inflammation, as an international research team led by the University of Basel and University Hospital Basel report in the journal Nature Immunology.

Anemia may contribute to the spread of dengue fever

Mosquitoes are more likely to acquire the dengue virus when they feed on blood with low levels of iron, researchers report in the 16 September issue of Nature Microbiology. Supplementing people's diets with iron in places where both iron deficiency anemia and dengue fever are a problem could potentially limit transmission of the disease, but there are risks.

New imaging technology could 'revolutionize' cancer surgery

Cancer treatment could be dramatically improved by an invention at the University of Waterloo to precisely locate the edges of tumors during surgery to remove them.

Gene-targeted cancer drugs, slow release overcome resistance

Biomedical engineers at Duke University have developed a method to address failures in a promising anti-cancer drug, bringing together tools from genome engineering, protein engineering and biomaterials science to improve the efficacy, accuracy and longevity of certain cancer therapies.

Meatballs might wreck the anti-cancer perks of tomato sauce

Eating your tomato sauce with meatballs piled on top could have a surprising downside, new research suggests.

In Ivory Coast, telemedicine revolution proves blessing for heart patients

Every time Catherine Coulibaly's 19-year-old son had to make a routine appointment with the cardiologist for his heart condition, she gritted her teeth as she silently counted the financial cost.

Generation healthy: alcoholic seltzer craze sweeps US

Health-conscious American millennials have found their drink of choice: alcoholic carbonated water that is lower in calories and carbs than beer and wine.

Pear Therapeutics CEO explains app for addiction treatment

Smartphone apps have transformed the way we read the news, hail rides and connect with friends and family.

New York moves to enact statewide flavored e-cig ban

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo is pushing to enact a statewide ban on the sale of flavored e-cigarettes amid growing health concerns connected to vaping, especially among young people.

Scanning the lens of the eye could predict type 2 diabetes and prediabetes

New research presented at this year's annual meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) in Barcelona, Spain (16-20 September) shows that specialist analysis of the lens in the eye can predict patients with type 2 diabetes and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) (also known as prediabetes, a condition that often leads to full blown of type 2 diabetes).

Types and rates of co-existing conditions in diabetes are different for men and women

A new study presented at this year's Annual Meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) in Barcelona, Spain (16-20 Sept) shows that men and women experience different comorbidities (other diseases at the same time) as having diabetes or prediabetes, as well as an unexpectedly high rate of prediabetes among children aged 6-10 years.

Childhood behavior linked to taking paracetamol in pregnancy

The research published today in Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology examined whether there were any effects of taking paracetamol in mid-pregnancy and the behaviour of the offspring between the ages of 6 month and 11 years, with memory and IQ tested up until the age of 17. Paracetamol is commonly used to relieve pain during pregnancy and is recommended as the treatment of choice by the NHS.

Three in five parents say their teen has been in a car with a distracted teen driver

It's a highly anticipated rite of passage for many high schoolers—finally getting to drive your friends around.

Physicians report high refusal rates for the HPV vaccine and need for improvement

Despite its proven success at preventing cancer, many adolescents are still not getting the HPV vaccine. A new study from the University of Colorado School of Medicine at the Anschutz Medical Campus shows that physicians' delivery and communication practices must improve to boost vaccination completion rates.

Heart-healthy forager-farmers in lowland Bolivia are changing diets and gaining weight

A group of forager-farmers in Bolivia's tropical forests—known for having remarkable cardiovascular health and low blood pressure—experienced changes in body mass and diet over a nine-year period, with increased use of cooking oil the most notable dietary change.

Off-label medication orders on the rise for children, study finds

U.S. physicians are increasingly ordering medications for children for conditions that are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration, according to a Rutgers study.

More predictive genetic risk score sought for type 1 diabetes

Paul Tran is working to develop a highly predictive genetic risk score that will tell parents whether their baby is at significant risk for type 1 diabetes.

Vapes spiked with illegal drugs show dark side of CBD craze

Jay Jenkins says he hesitated when a buddy suggested they vape CBD.

'Once you have it, you need it': Opioid epidemic still rages

As lawyers exchange mountains of paper and dicker over the details of a settlement with OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma, Americans are dying from opioids by the tens of thousands in an epidemic that grinds on in state after state, community after community, with no end in sight.

Violent video games blamed more often for school shootings by white perpetrators

People are more likely to blame violent video games as a cause of school shootings by white perpetrators than by African American perpetrators, possibly because of racial stereotypes that associate minorities with violent crime, according to new research published by the American Psychological Association.

Most American adults do not know that HPV causes oral, anal, and penile cancers

More than 70% of U.S. adults are unaware that human papillomavirus (HPV) causes anal, penile, and oral cancers, according to an analysis led by researchers at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) School of Public Health and published in the current issue of JAMA Pediatrics.

Study shows the importance of when adolescents sleep to obesity and cardiometabolic health

A new study led by researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital for Children (MGHfC) and Harvard Medical School has found that adolescent sleep timing preferences and patterns should be considered risk factors for obesity and cardiometabolic health, and that the effects are greater in girls than in boys.

Optimized placement of defibrillators may improve cardiac arrest outcomes

Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are often placed in areas of low risk and may be unavailable during certain times of the day. Determining the optimal location for AEDs may lead to increased defibrillation by bystanders and increased survival in those experiencing out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA), according to research published today in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

ACC issues principles for overcoming compensation, opportunity inequity

The American College of Cardiology today published its first health policy statement on cardiologist compensation and opportunity equity, recognizing that both are critical to the health and future of the cardiovascular workforce and achieving ACC's mission to transform cardiovascular care and improve heart health. The document is the first in a new series of ACC workforce health policy documents and will serve as guidance for clinicians and administrators to advance the profession toward the goals of fairness, including minimizing and reducing disparities, and improved patient care.

Gutsy effort to produce comprehensive study of intestinal gases

UNSW Sydney chemical engineers have traced the journey of gases through the gut while further developing a non-invasive, gas-capturing capsule.

Summit to tackle tricky problems of aging and dementia

Human life expectancy has more than doubled over the last century, and this sudden leap in longevity is triggering major shifts in our politics, economy and society—not to mention our personal health.

Astrocytes and epilepsy

The neurodevelopmental disorder Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) is characterized by often severe epilepsy, along with autism and psychiatric disorders. Astrocytes—star-shaped glial cells that serve multiple functions in the brain—are suspected to play a role in TSC.

Relational memory in early psychosis

Relational memory—the ability to form contextual relationships between individual items—is impaired in chronic schizophrenia and has been linked to hippocampal dysfunction. Whether relational memory impairment exists in early-stage psychosis and progresses with disease is unclear.

Scientists discover how cancer cells regenerate in the prostate

Scientists have discovered a mechanism by which cancer cells in the prostate can regenerate following radiotherapy—paving the way for improved prostate cancer treatment.

Flavored tobacco a major factor in the popularity of waterpipe smoking, study finds

Flavored tobacco is one of the major factors behind the popularity of waterpipe smoking in the United States and internationally, a recent FIU study found.

Two samples of West Nile in Coconino County came from different sources

After sequencing more than 400 different genomes of the West Nile Virus, an NAU scientist discovered the two reports of West Nile Virus in Coconino County came from two different places. One migrated north from the Phoenix area. The other is a bit more of a mystery.

Vaping: As an imaging scientist I fear the deadly impact on people's lungs

Vaping causes severe illness in otherwise healthy young adults and teenagers. It causes a life-threatening, life-shortening and sometimes deadly lung toxicity and injury—with apparently irreversible damage that cannot be cured.

Teaching kids physical activities they'll go on to enjoy

Physical education is one of the most popular subjects for children in their early school years. Yet by secondary school less favorable attitudes towards what's known in the Australian school curriculum as Health and Physical Education (HPE) can start to creep in.

Is vigorous exercise safe during the third trimester of pregnancy?

Expectant mothers receive an avalanche of information about potential risks to their baby. There's a growing list of foods, toxins and environmental threats to avoid. It's normal for this to lead to an increased level of anxiety.

Ethiopia must do more to stop recurring chikungunya outbreaks

Ethiopia's second largest city, Dire Dawa, is dealing with a chikungunya fever outbreak. Around 20,000 cases of the mosquito-borne viral infection have been reported since the outbreak started in March 2019. This is the second recorded outbreak of the disease in the country; the first was in 2016. Eunice Anyango Owino spoke to The Conversation Africa about the disease and the burden it places on public health.

Just bad luck? Australian cancer patients nominate 'fate' as third most likely cause

What role does fate play when it comes to the 145,000 people diagnosed with cancer each year in Australia?

Apartment and condo dwellers report smelling cannabis more than tobacco smoke, researchers say

More people in apartment buildings and condominiums reported exposure to cannabis smoke than tobacco one year before legalization, a new University of Toronto study says.

How lymphoma cells metastasize to the brain

Lymphomas in the central nervous system are rare but dangerous. Scientists at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) have now discovered which molecular mechanism leads to lymphomas forming metastases in the central nervous system. Using a mouse model, the researchers showed that chronic inflammatory processes in aging brains lead to lymphoma cells that have entered the brain tissue being retained instead of being released directly back into the blood. They also identified key molecules of this mechanism in tissue samples from patients with lymphomas of the central nervous system. The researchers therefore hope to have identified a potential approach for developing new therapeutic approaches.

Toddler becomes the first case of extensively drug-resistant typhoid in Australia

The first case of extensively drug-resistant (XDR) typhoid in Australia has been reported by the authors of a letter published today in the Medical Journal of Australia, highlighting the need for people contemplating travel to South and South East Asia to be vaccinated.

Breastfed Vietnamese babies have fewer health issues

Vietnamese infants who are fed with infant formula or prelacteal foods such as water and honey soon after birth are more likely to experience higher rates of hospitalization and childhood illnesses during their first year of life compared to infants who are breastfed, new research involving Curtin University has found.

Pioneering microbiome findings shed light on aspiration

When children have respiratory infections, clinicians tend to blame gastroesophageal reflux, based on the assumption that bacteria-laden stomach contents rise into the mouth and are then aspirated. As a result, clinicians often recommend a type of anti-reflux surgery called fundoplication to treat these infections. Yet, despite undergoing this procedure, many patients don't improve.

Study provides insight on targeted therapies for colorectal cancer metastasis

A new study by University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center researchers provides new insight on targeted therapy for colorectal cancer metastasis.

How to prevent Little League elbow from causing big problems

Dominic Johnston was powering through her routine on the bars in 2017 when she felt a stab of pain in her arm.

There's a way for modern medicine to cure diseases even when the treatments aren't profitable

Strides in medicine have contributed to a dramatic increase in life expectancy over the last century. Diseases like HIV and cervical cancer that were essentially death sentences as recently as 30 years ago can now be managed with access to prescription drugs and surgical procedures.

Mild cognitive impairment linked to lower use of cardiac catheterization in AMI

Preexisting mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is associated with a lower use of cardiac catheterization and coronary revascularization after acute myocardial infarction (AMI), according to a study published online Aug. 13 in the Journal of General Internal Medicine.

Alzheimer's disease risk gene APOE4 impairs function of brain immune cells

A study carried out with a new human stem cell-derived model reveals that the most prevalent genetic risk factor of Alzheimer's disease (AD), apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4), impairs the function of human brain immune cells, microglia. These findings pave the way for new, effective treatment approaches for AD. The results were published in Stem Cell Reports.

Two lung cancer drugs approved and one rejected for NHS Scotland

An immunotherapy and a targeted treatment have been recommended for use on the NHS in Scotland, but a third treatment was rejected.

Subgroup of colorectal cancer patients ID'd: Do poorly, could benefit from immunotherapy

While the medical community agrees that immune cells inside a tumor leads to improved health outcome, for a subset of colorectal cancer patients, having too much of a good thing—too many immune cells—is a strong predictor of disease recurrence and reduced chances of survival, according to new research from City of Hope, a world-renowned independent research and treatment center for cancer, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases.

No new measles cases reported in fading US outbreak

U.S. health officials say there were no new measles cases reported last week, a sign the nation's worst epidemic of the disease in 27 years could be in its final stages.

Vitamin E found to prevent muscle damage after heart attack

Heart attack is a leading cause of death worldwide and new treatment strategies are highly sought-after. Unfortunately lasting damage to the heart muscle is not uncommon following such an event.

Starting HIV treatment in ERs may be key to ending HIV spread worldwide

In a follow-up study conducted in South Africa, Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers say they have evidence that hospital emergency departments (EDs) worldwide may be key strategic settings for curbing the spread of HIV infections in hard-to-reach populations if the EDs jump-start treatment and case management as well as diagnosis of the disease. A report on the findings was published in August in EClinicalMedicine.

Lack of sleep affects fat metabolism

We're all a little short on sleep during the work week. A new study adds to the mounting evidence about just how harmful lack of sleep can be. In the Journal of Lipid Research, researchers at Pennsylvania State University report that just a few days of sleep deprivation can make participants feel less full after eating and metabolize the fat in food differently.

New research sheds light on how happy couples argue

In marriage, conflict is inevitable. Even the happiest couples argue. And research shows they tend to argue about the same topics as unhappy couples: children, money, in-laws, intimacy.

NIH-funded study suggests teen girl 'night owls' may be more likely to gain weight

Teen girls—but not boys—who prefer to go to bed later are more likely to gain weight, compared to same-age girls who go to bed earlier, suggests a study funded by the National Institutes of Health. The findings by researchers at Kaiser Permanente in Oakland, California, and other institutions appear in JAMA Pediatrics.

More than Lyme: Tick study finds multiple agents of tick-borne diseases

In a study published in mBio, a journal of the American Society for Microbiology, Jorge Benach and Rafal Tokarz, and their co-authors at Stony Brook University and Columbia University, reported on the prevalence of multiple agents capable of causing human disease that are present in three species of ticks in Long Island.

Hospital-wide use of high-risk antibiotics associated with more C. difficile infections

Higher hospital-wide use of four classes of antibiotics thought to increase the risk of the dangerous intestinal illness Clostridioides difficile were associated with increased prevalence of hospital-associated C. difficile, according to a study published today in Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology, the journal of the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America.

Scientists project northward expansion of Valley fever by end of 21st century

Valley fever is endemic to hot and dry regions such as the southwestern United States and California's San Joaquin Valley, but scientists at the University of California, Irvine predict that climate change will cause the fungal infection's range to more than double in size this century, reaching previously unaffected areas across the western U.S.

For kids who face trauma, good neighbors or teachers can save their longterm health

New research shows just how important positive childhood experiences are for our long-term health—especially for those who experience significant adversity as a child.

Delaying treatment worsens head, neck cancer outcomes

(HealthDay)—Delaying time to treatment initiation (TTI) beyond 60 days is associated with decreased overall survival and increased head and neck cancer recurrence, according to a study published online Sept. 12 in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery.

Biopsychosocial frailty measure predicts risk for dementia

(HealthDay)—Biopsychosocial frailty (BF) can predict short- and longer-term dementia risk, according to a study published in the August issue of Alzheimer's & Dementia.

Continued use low three months after ED opioid prescription for acute pain

(HealthDay)—Opioid use at three months after an emergency department visit where opioids were prescribed for acute pain is relatively low and not necessarily tied to opioid misuse, according to a study published in the August issue of Academic Emergency Medicine.

Where women's health clinics close, cervical cancer outcomes worsen

(HealthDay)—As government funding dried up and many women's health clinics across America closed, cervical cancer screening rates fell and deaths from the disease rose, a new report shows.

Taking blood pressure at home may better predict heart problem in black adults

Checking blood pressure at home or elsewhere outside a doctor's office could help predict a certain heart problem among black adults better than the same check done during a medical visit, new research suggests.

Success story or artificial inflation? Hospital performance in CAUTIs

A new study links changes in the way catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) are defined and artificially improved hospital performance scores.

Groundbreaking study targets one of Canada's most deadly medical conditions

Scientists have shown for the first time evidence that early sampling of blood for microorganisms in sepsis is critical to treating the common and potentially fatal condition.

Study shows not only do e-cigarette ads influence adolescents, young people don't question them

The tobacco industry has a history of targeting young people in its advertising to attract new customers. As vaping and electronic cigarettes have grown in popularity, advertisers are up to the same old tricks. New research from the University of Kansas shows that not only do those advertising tactics work, but young people also fail to question information touted in those ads.

Needle-free flu vaccine patch effective in early study

A new needle-free flu vaccine patch revved up the immune system much like a traditional flu shot without any negative side effects, according to a study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. Though the research is in the early stages (the patch hasn't been tested in humans), it's an important step toward a technology that could replace needle-based vaccination methods that require administration by health care workers and biohazard waste removal.

At-home blood pressure tests more accurate for African Americans

Cardiologists know that when patients use a blood pressure cuff at home, they have a significant head start on managing their heart health risk. Now, researchers have learned the added value for African Americans.

California campaign will warn public of vaping dangers

California will spend $20 million on a public awareness campaign about the dangers of vaping nicotine and cannabis products and step up efforts to halt the sale of illicit products amid a rise in vaping-related illnesses.

First sexual experience was forced for 1 in 16 U.S. women: study

(HealthDay)—Changes wrought by the #MeToo movement can't come soon enough, say researchers who found that for 1 in 16 U.S. women, their first sexual experience was forced.

Myths and menstruation: Overcoming Pakistan's period taboo

Bent over her hand-crank sewing machine, Hajra Bibi stitches sanitary pads for the women of her mountainous village in northwestern Pakistan, one of many rural areas in the deeply conservative country where periods are still taboo.

Latest studies suggest a possible downturn in rate of new cases of diabetes

While overall, the numbers (prevalence) of people with type 2 diabetes continue to grow at an alarming rate, new research presented at this year's annual meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) in Barcelona, Spain (16-20 September) shows that recent studies suggest the rate at which new cases develop (incidence) may be falling. The study is by Professor Dianna Magliano and Professor Jonathan Shaw, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia, and colleagues.

Obesity linked to a nearly 6-fold increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes

Obesity is linked to a nearly 6-fold increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2D), with high genetic risk and unfavorable lifestyle also increasing risk but to a much lesser extent. These are the conclusions of new research presented at this year's Annual Meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes in Barcelona, Spain (16-20 Sept), by Hermina Jakupovic, University of Copenhagen, Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Copenhagen, Denmark, and colleagues.

Commonly used drug for Alzheimer's disease doubles risk of hospitalization

A drug commonly used to manage symptoms of Alzheimer disease and other dementias—donepezil—is associated with a two-fold higher risk of hospital admission for rhabdomyolysis, a painful condition of muscle breakdown, compared with several other cholinesterase inhibitors, found a study in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal).

OxyContin maker Purdue files for bankruptcy in bid to settle opioid cases

Purdue Pharma has filed for bankruptcy in a settlement aimed at preventing further legal action concerning painkiller OxyContin, blamed for plunging millions into addiction and fueling the US opioid crisis.

Potential target for diabetes-associated Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have identified a protein that may contribute to the progression of Alzheimer's disease pathology in type-2 diabetes, reports a new study of male mice and human brain tissue. The research, published in JNeurosci, could have implications for future drug development.

Social isolation derails brain development in mice

Female mice housed alone during adolescence show atypical development of the prefrontal cortex and resort to habitual behavior in adulthood, according to new research published in eNeuro. These findings show how social isolation could lead to an over-reliance on habit-like behaviors that are associated with addiction and obesity.

Sudan says cholera outbreak kills 7, dozens infected

Sudan's Health Ministry says at least seven people have died from a cholera outbreak over the past three weeks in a southeastern province.

Computer modeling may improve understanding of glaucoma

A new mathematical model may help doctors learn more about the risk factors and causes of glaucoma, including the mechanisms affecting blood flow to the eye. The research will be presented today at the American Physiological Society (APS) Interface of Mathematical Models and Experimental Biology: Role of the Microvasculature Conference in Scottsdale, Ariz.

Ovarian cancer can be a silent killer

September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Ovarian cancer is a group of diseases that originates in the ovaries or in the related areas of the fallopian tubes and the peritoneum. This disease is sometimes known as a "silent killer" because many women don't recognize the signs of the disease until it is in an advanced stage.

Get up-to-the-minute safety alerts sent straight to your inbox

From defective child car seats to deadly virus outbreaks at restaurant chains, you're likely to learn of major product recalls and serious health warnings through various news outlets.

Deaths halved among infarct patients attending Heart School

Patients who attend 'Heart School,' as almost every patient in Sweden is invited to do after a first heart attack, live longer than non-participating patients. This is shown in a new study, by researchers at Uppsala University, published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology.

Pre-salvage RT PSA predictive of hormone therapy benefit with salvage RT for recurrent prostate cancer

Initial results of NRG Oncology Clinical Trial RTOG 9601 in men with biochemically recurrent prostate cancer receiving salvage radiotherapy (SRT) demonstrated improvement in OS from the addition of long-term hormone therapy to SRT. However, a secondary analysis indicates that all patients do not benefit and the addition of long-term anti-androgen therapy did not improve overall survival (OS) rates and could increase other-cause mortality (OCM) for some patients depending on pre-treatment PSA level. Data now shows that pre-SRT prostate-specific antigen (PSA) was a prognostic and predictive biomarker in determining the benefit of the addition of anti-androgen therapy to early SRT. These results were presented during the plenary session of the American Society of Radiation Oncology's (ASTRO) Annual Meeting in September 2019. The abstract is one of four abstracts chosen from over 3,000 submitted abstracts for the plenary session.

Biology news

Antibiotic resistance surges in dolphins, mirroring humans

Antibiotic resistance is one of the biggest public health challenges in the world today since many common bacterial infections are developing resistance to the drugs once used to treat them, and new antibiotics aren't being developed fast enough to combat the problem.

Sweet success of parasite survival could also be its downfall

University of York scientists from the Department of Chemistry are part of an international team which has discovered how a parasite responsible for spreading a serious tropical disease protects itself from starvation once inside its human host.

How alpine ecosystems are responding to climate change: It all comes down to the soil

Alpine flora is changing rapidly as a result of climate change. Soils are a vital but largely unexplored factor in this process. They also store the biggest amounts of CO2. However, how alpine soils will change in a warmer climate is largely unknown, according to researchers at the Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research (WSL), writing in the journal Science.

Researchers find new way to find antibiotics in dirt

Researchers at McMaster have designed a new way to rapidly identify antibiotics hidden in common dirt.

A modeling tool to rapidly predict weed spread risk

In the study, published in the journal Methods in Ecology and Evolution, the researchers developed the tool that uses information about the features of a weed species and the geography of the area in which it has been reported to predict specific locations where the weed is likely to spread to first.

Like an instruction manual, the genome groups genes together for convenience

Every living organism's cell has a complete copy of DNA, which is condensed tightly in chromosomes. Every time the cell needs to perform a function, it activates genes that open or close different regions in the DNA. Like following an instruction manual with consecutive pages, it's easier to activate two genes that are closer together to complete a function.

Taking evolution to heart

An international research group at UBC, Harvard University and Cardiff Metropolitan University has discovered how the human heart has adapted to support endurance physical activities. This research examines how the human heart has evolved and how it adapts in response to different physical challenges, and will bring new ammunition to the international effort to reduce hypertensive heart disease—one of the most common causes of illness and death in the developed world.

Look out, invasive species: The robots are coming

Invasive species control is notoriously challenging, especially in lakes and rivers where native fish and other wildlife have limited options for escape. In his laboratory's latest foray into using biomimetic robots to understand and modify animal behavior, NYU Tandon School of Engineering Professor Maurizio Porfiri led an interdisciplinary team of researchers from NYU Tandon and the University of Western Australia toward demonstrating how robotic fish can be a valuable tool in the fight against one of the world's most problematic invasive species, the mosquitofish.

New study shows common carp aquaculture in Neolithic China dating back 8,000 years

In a recent study, an international team of researchers analyzed fish bones excavated from the Early Neolithic Jiahu site in Henan Province, China. By comparing the body-length distributions and species-composition ratios of the bones with findings from East Asian sites with present aquaculture, the researchers provide evidence of managed carp aquaculture at Jiahu dating back to 6200-5700 BC.

Palmer amaranth's molecular secrets reveal troubling potential

Corn, soybean, and cotton farmers shudder at the thought of Palmer amaranth invading their fields. The aggressive cousin of waterhemp—itself a formidable adversary—grows extremely rapidly, produces hundreds of thousands of seeds per plant, and is resistant to multiple classes of herbicides, including glyphosate.

Harnessing tomato jumping genes could help speed-breed drought-resistant crops

Researchers from the University of Cambridge's Sainsbury Laboratory (SLCU) and Department of Plant Sciences have discovered that drought stress triggers the activity of a family of jumping genes (Rider retrotransposons) previously known to contribute to fruit shape and colour in tomatoes. Their characterisation of Rider, published today in the journal PLOS Genetics, revealed that the Rider family is also present and potentially active in other crops, highlighting its potential as a source of new trait variations that could help plants better cope with more extreme conditions driven by our changing climate.

New technology allows fleets to double fishing capacity—and deplete fish stocks faster

Technological advances are allowing commercial fishing fleets to double their fishing power every 35 years and put even more pressure on dwindling fish stocks, new research has found.

For lemurs, sex role reversal may get its start in the womb

Anyone who says females are the 'gentle sex' has never met a lemur. Lady lemurs get first dibs on food, steal their mates' favorite sleeping spots and even attack males, swatting or biting those that annoy them.

Ecologist revives world's longest running succession study

Ecologists have long tried to understand and anticipate the compositional change of plant species, especially now, as climate and land usage disrupts the way in which plants colonize and expand their communities. Called plant succession, the study of predicting plant communities through time is one of ecology's oldest pursuits.

Summer of Blob: Maine sees more big, stinging jellyfish

Seaside New England is known for rocky shores, seafood shacks, chance whale sightings and, in recent months, lots of gooey, tentacled blobs.

Genetically engineered plasmid can be used to fight antimicrobial resistance

Researchers have engineered a plasmid to remove an antibiotic resistance gene from the Enterococcus faecalis bacterium, an accomplishment that could lead to new methods for combating antibiotic resistance. The research is published this week in Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, a journal of the American Society for Microbiology.

Researchers call for more realistic experiments on the impact of climate change on ecosystems

The impact of climate change on ecosystems is still not fully understood. Most experiments are unrealistic because they do not correspond to projected climate scenarios for a specific region. As a result, scientists lack reliable data on what ecosystems might look like in the future, as a team of biodiversity researchers from Central Germany show in the journal Global Change Biology. The team reviewed all experimental studies on the topic, and are now calling for the introduction of common protocols for future experiments.

Mass extinctions made life on Earth more diverse, and might again

In the past half-billion years, Earth has been hit again and again by mass extinctions, wiping out most species on the planet. And every time, life recovered and ultimately went on to increase in diversity.

How can evolutionary biology help to get rid of antibiotic resistant bacteria?

Craig MacLean, Professor of Evolution and Microbiology at Oxford's Department of Zoology, explains how evolutionary biology can help us to get rid of antibiotic resistant bacteria.

Help track 4 billion bogong moths with your smartphone–and save pygmy possums from extinction

Each year, from September to mid-October, the tiny and very precious mountain pygmy-possums arise from their months of hibernation under the snow and begin feasting on billions of bogong moths that migrate from Queensland to Victoria's alpine region.

New contrast agent combination could usher in a new era of vascular systems biology

A new contrast agent combination for imaging tumor samples enhances imaging and data extraction and thus benefits image-based modeling of tumor processes. The discovery will be presented today at the American Physiological Society (APS) Interface of Mathematical Models and Experimental Biology: Role of the Microvasculature Conference in Scottsdale, Ariz.

Veterinarian says bats can be problem for pets, humans this time of year

With fall approaching, a Kansas State University veterinarian says homeowners and pet owners need to be cautious of bats, which are a leading transmitter of rabies.

Extinct Canary Island bird was not a unique species after all, DNA tests prove

DNA tests have proven an extinct bird species unique to the Canary Islands—whose loss was considered a sizeable blow for genetic diversity—is actually almost identical to types commonly found in the UK and throughout Europe.

Study shows importance of tailoring treatments to clearly defined weed control objectives

A new study in the journal Invasive Plant Science and Management shows that working smarter, not harder, can lead to better control of invasive weeds. And the first step is to clearly define your weed control objectives.

The sleep neuron in threadworms is also a stop neuron

Wagner Steuer Costa in the team of Alexander Gottschalk, Professor for Molecular Cell Biology and Neurobiochemistry, discovered the sleep neuron RIS a few years ago by coincidence—simultaneously with other groups. To understand the function of individual neurons in the plexus, the researchers use genetic engineering to cause them to produce light-sensitive proteins. With these "photo-switches," the neurons can be activated or turned off in the transparent worm using light radiation of a certain wavelength. "When we saw that the worm froze when this neuron was stimulated by light, we were quite amazed. It was the beginning of a study that took several years," Gottschalk recalls.

Dozens of tigers dead after confiscation from Thai temple

More than half of the 147 tigers confiscated from a controversial Thai temple have died, park officials said Monday, blaming genetic problems linked to in-breeding at the once money-spinning tourist attraction.

New approach to track returning animals at rehabilitated mine sites

A new approach to setting benchmarks for the return of fauna will allow rehabilitation managers to better assess the success of their restoration efforts on mine sites across Australia's north.

Seize some seeds from the garden for planting next year

As the gardening season winds down and you pick the season's last vegetables let some plants go to seed and harvest them for planting next year.


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