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Science News for June 23, 2013


Getting to grips with migraine

The study found 5 genetic regions linked to the onset of migraine and identified 12 genetic regions associated with migraine susceptibility. The regulation of these pathways may be important to the genetic susceptibility of migraines, which affects approximately 14% of adults and is a debilitating disorder.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 23, 2013
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Sugar solution makes tissues see-through

Researchers at RIKEN have developed a new sugar and water-based solution called SeeDB that turns tissues transparent in just three days without disrupting their shape or chemical nature. This technique enables the visualization of neuronal circuitry inside a mouse brain, revealing detailed wiring patterns and single-fiber resolution.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJun 23, 2013

Powerful gene-editing tool appears to cause off-target mutations in human cells

A team of researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital has found that CRISPR-Cas RNA-guided nucleases can cause off-target mutations in human cells, with rates potentially higher than at targeted sites. This limitation highlights the need to improve the precision of these gene-editing tools for therapeutic applications.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 23, 2013

The genome's 3-D structure shapes how genes are expressed

Researchers mapped the genome's 3D structure, finding that selected exons are exposed and accessible to transcription machinery. This reveals a new mechanism by which the genome's folding regulates gene expression and splicing.

SourceGarvan Institute of Medical Research·JournalNature Genetics·DateJun 23, 2013
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Depression screening in AF Clinics recommended by study

Patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) show signs of depression, sleeping disorders, and low levels of physical activity, despite physicians rating their quality of life higher. Good communication between physicians and patients is crucial for adherence to medications and long-term prognosis.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·DateJun 23, 2013

Finding Murray's magic

New research funded by the Economic and Social Research Council reveals that athletes who recognize early when a goal is unattainable are more successful at achieving their main career goals. Athletes with self-motivation find it harder to disengage from an impossible goal, leading to psychological distress.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateJun 23, 2013

Plants do sums to get through the night

Plants perform accurate arithmetic division to adjust their rate of starch consumption, using internal clocks and molecular signals. This calculation helps them prevent starvation and make efficient use of food, with the goal of boosting crop yield.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·DateJun 23, 2013
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.