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Science News Archive December 2016 - Page 11


Page 11 of 32

New bioinformatics tool tests methods for finding mutant genes that 'drive' cancer

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a new bioinformatics tool to evaluate the accuracy of current methods for identifying cancer-promoting mutations. The study found that existing methods need improvement and shared their methodology publicly to aid others in developing more precise ways to target tumor growth.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2016

Carbon dots dash toward 'green' recycling role

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a simple way to recycle waste carbon dioxide into valuable fuel using nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots. The dots proved nearly as efficient as copper in converting CO2 into small batches of ethylene and ethanol, with the ability to keep their catalytic activity for a long time.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 16, 2016

Graffiti for science

Researchers from GFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam developed a new method called 'erosion painting' to visualize erosion rates. By applying paint patterns on rock surfaces and monitoring their removal over time, scientists can analyze the spatial distribution and intensity of erosive processes.

SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalEarth Surface Dynamics·DateDec 16, 2016

Gene editing takes on new roles

Researchers have combined CRISPR gene editing with single-cell genomic profiling to understand nuanced cellular processes. The new technology enables precise manipulation of genes in individual cells, revealing previously unknown functions and advancing the field of genetic engineering.

Zika-linked birth defects more extensive than previously thought, UCLA-led research finds

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that Zika-linked abnormalities in human fetuses are more common and severe than initially thought. Out of 125 pregnancies among Zika-infected women, 46% resulted in birth defects or fetal death, with microcephaly being only one of several complications.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 15, 2016

Taking stock of the world's lakes

The new database provides a comprehensive overview of the world's lakes, with estimates of over 180,000 cubic kilometres of water stored in more than 1.4 million lakes. The study also reveals that lakes in hilly or mountainous regions tend to be deeper than those in flat landscapes.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 15, 2016

When horses are in trouble they ask humans for help

Research at Kobe University found that horses send signals to humans both visually and physically when faced with unsolvable problems, adapting their behavior based on humans' knowledge. This high social cognitive ability may have been acquired during domestication, enabling horses to form close bonds with humans.

SourceKobe University·JournalAnimal Cognition·DateDec 15, 2016