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Science News for December 27, 2016


Jawing away: Bahama pupfish study identifies candidate genes driving food-niches

A recent study on Bahama pupfish has identified 12 million single DNA mutations associated with jaw size differences and specialized diets. The researchers found novel candidate genes linked to large jaws and small jaws, highlighting the complexity of ecological specialization in this species.

Stability without junctions

Researchers discovered that cadherin clusters prevent cortical deformation by acting as structural anchors in the cell membrane. This new function of non-junctional cadherin clusters regulates cortical movement and stability, allowing for essential processes like cytokinesis to occur without dramatic changes.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 27, 2016

Out of gas and low on sperm?

Researchers at Kyoto University found that the Myc gene regulates stem cell self-renewal in mice, leading to a slower rate of proliferation and impaired energy production. This discovery may lead to new treatments for infertility by stimulating sperm cell metabolism.

SourceKyoto University·JournalGenes & Development·DateDec 27, 2016

Study finds hospital ICU overused

A study by LA BioMed and UCLA researchers found that over 50% of hospital ICU admissions could have been cared for in less expensive settings. Nearly 65% of ICU days were allocated to discretionary monitoring, which is not necessary for patients who are too well or too sick.

SourceLA BioMed·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateDec 27, 2016

Endometrial cancer driver mutations detectable in uterine lavage fluid

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that mutations driving endometrial cancer can be detected in uterine lavage fluid of pre- and post-menopausal women, regardless of their cancer status. The presence of these mutations was positively associated with age and post-menopause, highlighting the potential for non-invasive screening met...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 27, 2016

How much money is spent on health care for kids, where does it go?

Healthcare spending on children in the US grew from $149.6 billion in 1996 to $233.5 billion in 2013, with the highest expenditures on well-newborn care, ADHD treatment, and dental care. The study highlights the need to analyze driving factors behind increased healthcare spending to determine its impact on processes and outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateDec 27, 2016