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Science News for May 8, 2015


Moffitt researchers work to determine why some prostate cancer patients experience more hot flashes

A new study by Moffitt researchers found that younger men and those with a lower body mass index are more prone to experiencing hot flashes during androgen deprivation therapy. The study analyzed patient characteristics and DNA to identify genetic factors associated with an increased number of hot flashes.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateMay 8, 2015

Engineering bacteria to design vaccines

The EU-funded MycoSynVac project combines gene engineering and biotechnology to design a novel veterinary vaccine chassis based on Mycoplasma pneumoniae. This chassis will be used to create specific vaccines against two highly detrimental pathogens, as well as for cell therapy and infectious lung disease treatment.

Food industry achieved only baby steps to improve nutritional quality of foods advertised to kids

A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that the food industry's self-regulation program has achieved little improvement in the nutritional quality of foods advertised to children. Despite promises to promote healthier options, most advertised products still fall into the poorest nutritional category.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMay 8, 2015

Moving to a depressed neighborhood linked to weight gain

A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that people who moved to more socioeconomically deprived neighborhoods gained additional weight. The study used data from over 3,000 Dallas County residents and found a significant association between moving to a higher-NDI neighborhood and increased weight gain.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMay 8, 2015

When do mothers need others?

Researchers found that early human families likely formed around cooperating groups of mothers and children, not just adult relatives. As mothers became more successful at producing children, they needed the cooperation of other adults to care for their dependents.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateMay 8, 2015

Stan Yavno receives Arnold Berliner Award 2015

Stan Yavno's research on non-native pumpkinseed sunfish found high levels of morphological plasticity, facilitating their ecological adaptations in new areas. This finding is significant as it suggests that invasive species can outcompete native populations through phenotypic plasticity.

Altering genes with the aid of light

University of Pittsburgh scientist Alexander Deiters has developed a new method for controlling gene editing using light, enabling more precise and controlled manipulation of genes. This approach may eliminate 'off-target effects' and enable genetic studies with unprecedented resolution.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 8, 2015