Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive July 2016 - Page 36


Page 36 of 36

Unraveling the genes for sexual traits in stag beetles

Researchers built a gene expression database of a stag beetle species and identified key genes involved in sex determination and differentiation. The study found that the intersex gene plays a crucial role in determining female-specific traits, while the transformer-2 gene affects more than just sex-specific characteristics.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalBMC Genomics·DateJul 3, 2016

Cravings for high-calorie foods may be switched off in the brain by new supplement

A new study suggests that a powdered food supplement, based on a molecule produced by bacteria in the gut, can reduce cravings for high-calorie foods like chocolate and pizza. The supplement, called inulin-propionate ester, releases more propionate than other fiber supplements, which signals to the brain to reduce appetite.

SourceImperial College London·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJul 1, 2016

Walking meetings could brings longer and healthier lives to office workers, UM study

A new study published in Preventing Chronic Disease suggests that incorporating walking meetings into the workday can significantly increase physical activity levels among white-collar workers. By converting one seated meeting per week to a walking meeting, participants reported a 10-minute increase in work-related physical activity.

SourceUniversity of Miami Miller School of Medicine·JournalPreventing Chronic Disease·DateJul 1, 2016

Cerebrovascular disease linked to Alzheimer's

Researchers from Rush University Medical Center found that diseased blood vessels in the brain may contribute more significantly to Alzheimer's disease dementia than previously believed. The study analyzed medical and pathologic data on 1,143 older individuals and found an association between worsening brain vessel diseases and higher ...

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateJul 1, 2016

The relentless dynamism of the adult brain

Scientists observed real-time formation and evolution of new adult-born neurons in the olfactory bulb of mice. Constant structural plasticity in connections between new neurons and neighboring cells was revealed, enabling efficient processing of sensory information.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalNeuron·DateJul 1, 2016

Zika virus research at Biosecurity Research Institute aims to control, fight mosquitoes

Researchers at Kansas State University's Biosecurity Research Institute are studying the relationship between Zika virus and mosquitoes to develop better controlling methods. They aim to target specific species of mosquitoes that transmit the virus, such as Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus, which are widely distributed in the U.S.

SourceKansas State University·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateJul 1, 2016

Women's connections in extreme networks

A study reveals that women are better connected within terrorist organizations than men, acting as a glue to fuel the network's vitality and survival. The researchers found high 'betweenness centrality' among female members, making them critical in passing on vital information.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 1, 2016

Consensus statement: Environmental toxins hurt brain development, action needed

A consensus statement from Project TENDR highlights the link between environmental toxins and neurodevelopmental disorders in children, including intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, and learning disabilities. The alliance calls for immediate reduction of toxic chemical exposures through policy changes and industry action.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateJul 1, 2016

When suppressing immunity is a good thing

A team of researchers from Hokkaido University found that a receptor, known for its role in mediating dioxin toxicity, also regulates the body's innate immune response to viral infections. The activation of this receptor negatively regulates the production of an antiviral protein called type I interferon.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Immunology·DateJul 1, 2016