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Science News Archive April 2013 - Page 26


Page 26 of 32

Sweet success

Researchers use PALM microscopy technique to analyze enzyme cocktails and find specific targets for cellulase synergy. This reveals how different combinations of enzymes can generate synergistic activity, increasing saccharification efficiencies and reducing biofuel production costs.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateApr 7, 2013

Finding genes for childhood obesity

Researchers have identified four genes newly associated with severe childhood obesity and found an increased burden of rare structural variations in severely obese children. These variations can delete sections of DNA that help maintain protein receptors involved in weight regulation, promising new drug targets against obesity.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 7, 2013

Breakthrough in chemical crystallography

A research team developed a new protocol for X-ray single-crystal diffraction analysis that doesn't require crystallisation of the target molecule. This method allows for the analysis of scarce marine natural products and characterises many compounds previously impossible to analyze crystallographically.

SourceAcademy of Finland·JournalNature·DateApr 5, 2013

Vitamin D proven to boost energy -- from within the cells

A study from Newcastle University found that vitamin D supplements improve muscle efficiency in patients with severe deficiency, leading to reduced fatigue and improved mitochondrial oxidative function. The research suggests a link between vitamin D and mitochondrial function, potentially offering a new way to boost energy levels.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalJournal of Endocrinology·DateApr 5, 2013

Highly lethal Ebola virus has diagnostic Achilles' heel for biothreat detection, scientists say

Researchers at Texas Biomedical Institute discovered a polymer hidden within the Ebola virus that can be targeted by llama antibodies, enabling the creation of highly sensitive test kits using a single antibody. This breakthrough may revolutionize emerging viral diagnostics and offer a promising tool for detecting other deadly pathogens.

Sexuality, traumatic brain injury, and rehabilitation

Research highlights the significant impact of traumatic brain injury (TBI) on sexuality, including cognitive deficits, medical issues, and relationship changes. Rehabilitation strategies are crucial to address these challenges and improve sexual functioning in TBI survivors.

SourceIOS Press·JournalNeuroRehabilitation An International Interdisciplinary Journal·DateApr 5, 2013

New emissions standards would fuel shift from coal to natural gas

A new study by Duke University suggests that tougher EPA air-quality standards may make nearly two-thirds of US coal-fired power plants as expensive to run as plants powered by natural gas. The stricter regulations could spur an increased shift away from coal towards natural gas, especially if fuel prices rise significantly.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 5, 2013

Corporate accounting earnings data relevant for determining value of the aggregate stock market

A study by Prof. Panos Patatoukas of the University of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business found that aggregate accounting earnings are tied to news about expected future cash flows and discount rates, impacting stock market valuation. The research suggests that capital market participants and policymakers can extract valuabl...

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business·JournalReview of Accounting Studies·DateApr 5, 2013

Experts call for research on prevalence of delayed neurological dysfunction after head injury

A recent review article highlights the need for preventive measures, genetic risk factors, and new diagnostic tools to identify the effects of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in athletes and soldiers. Researchers propose large-scale trials and genome-wide association studies to characterize CTE and develop prevention strategies.

Researcher offers clues on the origins of life

A three-year study by Professor Michael Blaber and his team suggests that proteins, not RNA, were the first molecules to form life. The researchers found that 10 prebiotic amino acids could be folded into complex protein structures in a high-salt environment, supporting a 'protein-first' view of abiogenesis.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 2013

MDC and FMP researchers identify edema inhibitor

Researchers have identified a substance that prevents fluid accumulation and edema formation in the body, offering new hope for treating excessive fluid retention in patients with chronic heart failure. The discovery also reveals a new molecular mechanism controlling water homeostasis in the kidneys.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 5, 2013