ScienceDaily: Latest Science News

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• Running may be better than walking for breast cancer survival, research finds
• Resetting, understanding the metabolic clock
• Digital test for toxic genes: Computer algorithm identifies genes whose activation is lethal to bacteria
• Single gene separates queen from workers
• Altruistic acts more common in states with high well-being
• Universe's early galaxies grew massive through collisions
• Glass that bends but doesn't break: Natural forms inspire researchers to develop a technique to make glass less brittle
• Protein synthesis and the element of chance
• Protein modifies thyroid hormone levels according to body temperature
• 'Chameleon of the sea' reveals its secrets
• New NASA laser technology reveals how ice measures up
• Finding points to possible new Parkinson's therapy
• Tropics are main source of global mammal diversity
• Preterm birth is associated with increased risk of asthma and wheezing disorders
• Malaria screening unsuccessful in some schools
• Brain structure, function predict future memory performance in children, adolescents
• Parents Unclear About Process for Specialist Care for Kids
• Research shows arsenic, mercury, selenium in Asian carp not a health concern to most
• 'Weeding the garden' lets anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive lung cancer patients continue crizotinib
• Low levels of pro-inflammatory agent help cognition in rats
• Caffeine use disorder: Widespread health problem that needs more attention
• Automated system could efficiently identify high-risk osteoporosis patients
• Skin cell response to environmental stimuli like viruses may predict type 1 diabetes
• Study examines repeat colonoscopy in patients with polyps referred for surgery without biopsy-proven cancer
• Parents less likely to spank after reading briefly about its links to problems in children
• Churn burn: Report outlines state strategies to assist with health insurance transitions
• Researchers open door to new HIV therapy
• High-tech 'whole body' scan could improve treatment of bone marrow cancer
• Intranasal vaccine protects mice against West Nile infection
• Bacterial toxin potential trigger for multiple sclerosis
• Early rehabilitation important for recovery after severe traumatic brain injury
• Voice may change after nose job
• New online platform gives public opportunities to shape future of NYC
• Contradictory nutrition news creates consumer confusion
• Agent Orange linked to skin cancer risk, report suggests
• Researchers find culprit behind skeletal muscle disease
• Active power control of wind turbines can improve power grid reliability
• Brain regions thought to be uniquely human share many similarities with monkeys
• Aspirin still overprescribed for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation
• Paleolithic humans from the north of Spain moved to dwellings with better logistics
• Choosing Wisely: Five common clinical practices to reconsider in critical care
• New imaging technique speeds removal of non-melanoma skin cancers
• H.M.'s brain yields new evidence: 3-D model of famous amnesiac's brain helps illuminate human memory
• Certain probiotics could help women lose weight, study finds
• Filleting robot to help the Norwegian fishing industry
• The Super Bowl: A 'spiritual sugar high? '
• Targeted tutoring can reduce 'achievement gap' for disadvantaged students
• Hurricane Sandy may be a blessing for tiny piping plover
• Vacuum technology removes dangerous blood clots in heart
• Melatonin shows potential to slow tumor growth in certain breast cancers

Running may be better than walking for breast cancer survival, research finds Posted: 29 Jan 2014 08:52 AM PST Previous studies have shown that breast cancer survivors who meet the current exercise recommendations (2.5 hours of moderate intensity physical activity per week) are at 25 percent lower risk for dying from breast cancer. New research suggests that exceeding the recommendations may provide greater protection, and that running may be better than walking.

Resetting, understanding the metabolic clock Posted: 29 Jan 2014 08:52 AM PST We've all heard about circadian rhythm, the roughly 24-hour oscillations of biological processes that occur in many living organisms. Yet for all its influence in many aspects of our lives -- from sleep to immunity and, particularly, metabolism -- relatively little is understood about the mammalian circadian rhythm and the interlocking processes that comprise this complex biological clock. Through intensive analysis and computer modeling, researchers have gained insight into factors that affect these oscillations, with results that could lend themselves to circadian regulation and pharmacological control.

Digital test for toxic genes: Computer algorithm identifies genes whose activation is lethal to bacteria Posted: 29 Jan 2014 08:52 AM PST Researchers have developed a new computer algorithm that predicts which metabolic genes are lethal to cells when overproduced. Their findings could help guide metabolic engineering to produce new chemicals and drugs in more cost-effective ways.

Single gene separates queen from workers Posted: 29 Jan 2014 08:51 AM PST Scientists have identified how a single gene in honey bees separates the queens from the workers. A team of scientists unraveled the gene's inner workings. The gene, which is responsible for leg and wing development, plays a crucial role in the evolution of bees' ability to carry pollen.

Altruistic acts more common in states with high well-being Posted: 29 Jan 2014 08:51 AM PST People are much more likely to decide to donate a kidney to a stranger -- an extraordinarily altruistic act -- in areas of the United States where levels of well-being are high, according to a new study published.

Universe's early galaxies grew massive through collisions Posted: 29 Jan 2014 08:49 AM PST It has long puzzled scientists that there were enormously massive galaxies that were already old and no longer forming new stars in the very early universe, approximately 3 billion years after the Big Bang. Now new research shows that these massive galaxies were formed by explosive star formation that was set in motion by the collision of galaxies a few billion years after the Big Bang.

Glass that bends but doesn't break: Natural forms inspire researchers to develop a technique to make glass less brittle Posted: 29 Jan 2014 08:45 AM PST Scientists have successfully taken inspiration from the mechanics of natural structures like seashells in order to significantly increase the toughness of glass.

Protein synthesis and the element of chance Posted: 29 Jan 2014 04:58 AM PST In the process of protein synthesis there is a "stochastic" component, i.e., involving random chance, which influences the time the process takes. This aspect has been investigated by two research scientists.

Protein modifies thyroid hormone levels according to body temperature Posted: 28 Jan 2014 05:21 PM PST Research improves our understanding of the changes that occur during fevers; it also sheds light on the euphoric feeling some people get when in a hot bath or sauna.

'Chameleon of the sea' reveals its secrets Posted: 28 Jan 2014 05:20 PM PST Scientists hope new understanding of the natural nanoscale photonic device that enables a small marine animal to dynamically change its colors will inspire improved protective camouflage for soldiers on the battlefield.

New NASA laser technology reveals how ice measures up Posted: 28 Jan 2014 03:48 PM PST A new photon-counting technique will allow researchers to track the melt or growth of Earth's frozen regions.

Finding points to possible new Parkinson's therapy Posted: 28 Jan 2014 03:48 PM PST A new study shows that, when properly manipulated, a population of support cells found in the brain called astrocytes could provide a new and promising approach to treat Parkinson's disease. These findings, which were made using an animal model of the disease, demonstrate that a single therapy could simultaneously repair the multiple types of neurological damage caused by Parkinson's, providing an overall benefit that has not been achieved in other approaches.

Tropics are main source of global mammal diversity Posted: 28 Jan 2014 03:48 PM PST Scientists recognize that some regions contain more species than others, and that the tropics are richer in biodiversity than temperate regions. But why are there more species in the tropics? A new study scrutinizes most of the living mammalian species and reveals a two-fold mechanism; the rate at which mammals arose was higher in the tropics, and the rate at which they became extinct lower.

Preterm birth is associated with increased risk of asthma and wheezing disorders Posted: 28 Jan 2014 03:48 PM PST Children who are born preterm have an increased risk developing asthma and wheezing disorders during childhood according to new research.

Malaria screening unsuccessful in some schools Posted: 28 Jan 2014 03:48 PM PST A school-based intermittent screening and treatment program for malaria in rural coastal Kenya had no benefits on the health and education of school children, according to a new study.

Brain structure, function predict future memory performance in children, adolescents Posted: 28 Jan 2014 03:47 PM PST Assessing structural and functional changes in the brain may predict future memory performance in healthy children and adolescents, according to a new study. The findings shed new light on cognitive development and suggest MRI and other tools may one day help identify children at risk for developmental challenges earlier than current testing methods allow.

Parents Unclear About Process for Specialist Care for Kids Posted: 28 Jan 2014 03:47 PM PST Parents vary widely in views about their responsibilities in getting specialty care for their children, according to a new poll.

Research shows arsenic, mercury, selenium in Asian carp not a health concern to most Posted: 28 Jan 2014 01:34 PM PST Researchers have found that overall, concentrations of arsenic, selenium, and mercury in bighead and silver carp from the lower Illinois River do not appear to be a health concern for a majority of human consumers.

'Weeding the garden' lets anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive lung cancer patients continue crizotinib Posted: 28 Jan 2014 01:34 PM PST Patients taking crizotinib for anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive non-small cell lung cancer may safely and durably use up to three courses of targeted radiation therapy to eradicate pockets of drug-resistant disease, according to a new study.

Low levels of pro-inflammatory agent help cognition in rats Posted: 28 Jan 2014 01:34 PM PST Although inflammation is frequently a cause of disease in the body, research indicates that low levels of a pro-inflammatory cytokine in the brain are important for cognition. Cytokines are proteins produced by the immune system.

Caffeine use disorder: Widespread health problem that needs more attention Posted: 28 Jan 2014 12:40 PM PST "I'm a zombie without my morning coffee." "My blood type is Diet Coke." "Caffeine isn't a drug, it's a vitamin." Most people make jokes like these about needing a daily boost from their favorite caffeinated beverage -- whether first thing in the morning or to prevent the after-lunch slump. But a recent study indicates that more people are dependent on caffeine to the point that they suffer withdrawal symptoms and are unable to reduce caffeine consumption even if they have another condition that may be impacted by caffeine -- such as a pregnancy, a heart condition, or a bleeding disorder.

Automated system could efficiently identify high-risk osteoporosis patients Posted: 28 Jan 2014 12:40 PM PST An automated system that identifies high-risk osteoporosis patients being treated for fractures and can generate letters encouraging follow-up is an effective way to promote osteoporosis intervention and prevent future fractures, according researchers.

Skin cell response to environmental stimuli like viruses may predict type 1 diabetes Posted: 28 Jan 2014 12:39 PM PST Type 1 diabetes is a genetically-driven autoimmune disease of pancreatic beta-cells, whose origins remain unknown. Researchers have discovered that skin cells from patients with type 1 diabetes display abnormal activity triggered by immune response mechanisms to environmental stimuli like a viral infection.

Study examines repeat colonoscopy in patients with polyps referred for surgery without biopsy-proven cancer Posted: 28 Jan 2014 12:39 PM PST A new study reports that in the absence of biopsy-proven invasive cancer, a second colonoscopy done at an expert center may be appropriate to reevaluate patients referred for surgical resection. In the study, 71 percent of the lesions referred for surgery were noncancerous polyps (growths in the colon) and were treatable endoscopically. In 26 percent of cases, previous removal was attempted by the referring physician but was unsuccessful.

Parents less likely to spank after reading briefly about its links to problems in children Posted: 28 Jan 2014 12:39 PM PST Parents who spank believe it's an effective way to discipline children. But extensive research has linked spanking to short- and long-term child behavior problems. New studies found that brief exposure to the research significantly altered parents' positive views toward spanking. "If we can educate people about corporal punishment, these studies show that we can in a very quick way begin changing attitudes."

Churn burn: Report outlines state strategies to assist with health insurance transitions Posted: 28 Jan 2014 12:39 PM PST A new culture of health care has been ushered in by the Affordable Care Act, but, for Americans with varying incomes, it is a bit more complicated. These individuals may experience shifts in coverage, requiring them to "churn" between Medicaid and private insurance. A new report outlines what states are doing to ease such transitions.

Researchers open door to new HIV therapy Posted: 28 Jan 2014 12:39 PM PST A structural biologist and cell biologist have identified a new target for possible anti-AIDS drugs that would complement the current cocktail of drugs used to keep HIV in check. The target is a protein that interacts with an HIV protein, Nef, that slams the door to other viruses once a cell is infected.

High-tech 'whole body' scan could improve treatment of bone marrow cancer Posted: 28 Jan 2014 12:39 PM PST A pioneering scanning technique that can image a patient's entire body can reveal where cancer is affecting the bones and guide doctors in their choice of treatment, new research reveals.

Intranasal vaccine protects mice against West Nile infection Posted: 28 Jan 2014 12:39 PM PST Researchers have developed a nasal vaccine formulation that provides protective immunity against West Nile virus infection in mice after only two doses.

Bacterial toxin potential trigger for multiple sclerosis Posted: 28 Jan 2014 12:39 PM PST Researchers have added to the growing body of evidence that multiple sclerosis may be triggered by a toxin produced by common foodborne bacteria.

Early rehabilitation important for recovery after severe traumatic brain injury Posted: 28 Jan 2014 12:38 PM PST Early rehabilitation interventions seem to be essential for how well a patient recovers after a severe brain injury. It might even increase the chances for long-term survival, according to researchers.

Voice may change after nose job Posted: 28 Jan 2014 12:38 PM PST Patients who have undergone plastic surgery to change the appearance of their nose may also notice changes in the sound of their voice, reports a study.

New online platform gives public opportunities to shape future of NYC Posted: 28 Jan 2014 12:38 PM PST A new online tool developed by the Wildlife Conservation Society will enable New Yorkers to develop and share sustainable visions of New York City's future, making it possible for the public to virtually plan their city block by block.

Contradictory nutrition news creates consumer confusion Posted: 28 Jan 2014 12:38 PM PST Exposure to conflicting news about the health benefits of certain foods, vitamins and supplements often results in confusion and backlash against nutrition recommendations, finds a recent study.

Agent Orange linked to skin cancer risk, report suggests Posted: 28 Jan 2014 12:38 PM PST Vietnam War veterans with prior exposure to the herbicide Agent Orange may be at higher risk for certain types of skin cancer, suggests a new report.

Researchers find culprit behind skeletal muscle disease Posted: 28 Jan 2014 10:05 AM PST Genetic mutations in titin, a protein that is vital for proper muscular function, can cause skeletal muscle disease, according to a new study. The work answers a question that remained after previous studies, which couldn't say if the deviations caused myopathies, or merely resulted from them.

Active power control of wind turbines can improve power grid reliability Posted: 28 Jan 2014 09:46 AM PST Scientists have completed a comprehensive study to understand how wind power technology can assist the power grid by controlling the active power output being placed onto the system. The rest of the power system's resources have traditionally been adjusted around wind to support a reliable and efficient system. The research that led to this report challenges that concept.

Brain regions thought to be uniquely human share many similarities with monkeys Posted: 28 Jan 2014 09:46 AM PST New research suggests a surprising degree of similarity in the organization of regions of the brain that control language and complex thought processes in humans and monkeys. The study also revealed some key differences. The findings may provide valuable insights into the evolutionary processes that established our ties to other primates but also made us distinctly human.

Aspirin still overprescribed for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation Posted: 28 Jan 2014 09:46 AM PST Aspirin is still overprescribed for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation (AF) despite the potential for dangerous side effects, according to new research.

Paleolithic humans from the north of Spain moved to dwellings with better logistics Posted: 28 Jan 2014 09:46 AM PST Scientists have traced the steps of the human beings that inhabited the region during the Paleolithic era. Through computer programs for geographical analysis, it is known that these nomads gradually abandoned high-altitude rocky shelters and caves to live on flatter plains. To see or to be seen? This is the question that humans inhabiting the Cantabrian coast during the Paleolithic era had to ask themselves.

Choosing Wisely: Five common clinical practices to reconsider in critical care Posted: 28 Jan 2014 09:45 AM PST As part of the national "Choosing Wisely" initiative, the Critical Care Societies Collaborative has identified five routine clinical practices that should be questioned because they may not always be necessary and could, in fact, be harmful.

New imaging technique speeds removal of non-melanoma skin cancers Posted: 28 Jan 2014 08:32 AM PST Skin cancer surgery involves successive removal of tissue, which is processed using a 45-minute procedure to determine if residual cancer remains and is often repeated several times. Now, researchers have developed a microscopic technique that identifies residual cancer tissue in 90 seconds, promising to dramatically reduce the length, inefficiency, and cost of this common surgery.

H.M.'s brain yields new evidence: 3-D model of famous amnesiac's brain helps illuminate human memory Posted: 28 Jan 2014 08:32 AM PST During his lifetime, Henry G. Molaison (H.M.) was the best known and possibly the most studied patient of modern neuroscience. Now, thanks to the postmortem study of his brain, based on histological sectioning and digital three-dimensional construction, scientists around the globe will finally have insight into the neurological basis of the case that defined modern studies of human memory.

Certain probiotics could help women lose weight, study finds Posted: 28 Jan 2014 07:35 AM PST Certain probiotics could help women lose weight and keep it off, according to a recent study. Studies have already demonstrated that the intestinal flora of obese individuals differs from that of thin people. That difference may be due to the fact that a diet high in fat and low in fiber promotes certain bacteria at the expense of others. Researchers tried to determine if the consumption of probiotics could help reset the balance of the intestinal microbiota in favor of bacteria that promote a healthy weight.

Filleting robot to help the Norwegian fishing industry Posted: 28 Jan 2014 07:33 AM PST A newly developed white fish filleting machine could give this Norwegian industry a much-needed boost. Unlike farmed salmon, white fish varies greatly in size and weight. This means that until now, no one has been able to develop a machine that can fillet these fish.

The Super Bowl: A 'spiritual sugar high? ' Posted: 28 Jan 2014 07:33 AM PST The ultimate play-off is the ultimate unifier, chasing away everyday cares and cutting across cultural, economic and gender lines that divide people, says a pop culture observer. But then what?

Targeted tutoring can reduce 'achievement gap' for disadvantaged students Posted: 28 Jan 2014 07:31 AM PST High school students who were at risk for dropping out greatly improved their math test scores and school attendance with the help of intensive tutoring and mentoring, according to a new study. The program's benefits were equivalent to closing nearly two-thirds of the average gap in math test scores between white and black students, or the equivalent of what the average American high school student learns in math over three years.

Hurricane Sandy may be a blessing for tiny piping plover Posted: 28 Jan 2014 07:31 AM PST The piping plover, a threatened shorebird, is expected to capitalize on new habitat created by Hurricane Sandy on hard-hit Long Island, N.Y. The storm created wider sandy beaches, the plover's preferred habitat.

Vacuum technology removes dangerous blood clots in heart Posted: 28 Jan 2014 07:31 AM PST An innovative vacuum technology can remove potentially deadly, large clots.

Melatonin shows potential to slow tumor growth in certain breast cancers Posted: 28 Jan 2014 07:31 AM PST An early stage study shows melatonin -- a hormone that regulates the body's sleep and awake cycles -- may have the potential to help slow the growth of certain breast cancer tumors, according to researchers.

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