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Science News Archive October 2016 - Page 33


Page 33 of 44

Mapping the 'dark matter' of human DNA

A study has identified over 1.9 million variants affecting multiple DNA 'letters', clarifying part of the human genome's unknown regions. These findings enable researchers to predict the occurrence of large structural changes and discover new genes, such as a previously unknown ZNF gene present in half of the Dutch population.

SourceSaarland University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 7, 2016

Peer victimization in schools: 2 studies explore types and repercussions

Two studies investigate peer victimization in schools, revealing the importance of early intervention for addressing both overt and relational forms of victimization. Overt victimization is associated with higher levels of aggression and externalizing behavior, while relational victimization links to internalizing problems and a lack o...

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateOct 6, 2016

A niche for metastases

Scientists from TUM discovered that pancreatic cancer cells create a 'niche' in the liver to grow and spread at an exceptionally early stage. This is facilitated by the protein TIMP1, which interacts with hepatic stellate cells to activate them and initiate metastasis.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateOct 6, 2016

Mental illness genetically linked to drug use and misuse

A new study published in Frontiers in Genetics finds a significant link between mental illness and genetic risk for substance involvement. The research suggests that individuals with a genetic predisposition to mental illness are also more likely to develop problematic usage patterns of licit and illicit substances.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Genetics·DateOct 6, 2016

Enjoying your workout is the best motivation

Researchers found that four factors - perceived competence, social interaction, novel experiences, and physical exertion - trigger positive emotions in exercise. Enjoyment is a key factor among regular exercisers, leading to increased motivation and adherence.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateOct 6, 2016

Multisensory education enhances patient understanding of orthopaedic conditions

A new study by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that incorporating multiple senses in physician-patient conversations improves patient comprehension of orthopaedic conditions. The study showed significant differences in understanding between groups using verbal, video, and model-based discussions.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateOct 6, 2016

The mathematics of music history

A study by Aarhus University researchers analyzed musical themes from French, Italian, and Austro-German composers. The findings support historical musicology assumptions about national influences on European music culture, showing that North-Italian music dominated Europe during the Baroque Era.

SourceAarhus University·JournalMusic Perception An Interdisciplinary Journal·DateOct 6, 2016

How gecko feet got sticky

A UC Riverside-led study found that a dwarf gecko's microscopic hairs allow it to cling to smooth surfaces, revealing the origins of gecko adhesion. The research suggests that small modifications can lead to complex adaptations, with implications for nanotechnology and biomimicry.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalBiological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateOct 6, 2016

Night shift work and breast cancer risk

Despite previous concerns, a new review of evidence suggests that night shift work is unlikely to increase breast cancer incidence. A meta-analysis of three large UK studies and seven previously published studies found no significant association between night shift work and breast cancer risk.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateOct 6, 2016

Protein-like structures from the primordial soup

Researchers at ETH Zurich successfully assembled protein-like structures from four simple amino acids, suggesting that these molecules may have been the precursors of life. The findings support the 'amyloid hypothesis,' which proposes that ancient RNA molecules were not capable of self-replication.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateOct 6, 2016

Measuring forces with oscillations

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new principle to measure external forces using parametric oscillation. The discovery has advantages for small sensors, enabling the creation of extremely precise force meters.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalPhysical Review E·DateOct 6, 2016

New method provides a tool to develop nematode-resistant soybean varieties

Researchers discovered a repeat of four genes controlling resistance to soybean cyst nematode and developed an assay to quantify gene repeats. This new method improves breeding programs by selecting for more copies of the gene sequence, potentially leading to stronger resistance.