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Science News Archive September 2016 - Page 7


Page 7 of 12

Researchers at the CNIO discover a gene that is essential for the DNA-replication process

The discovery of POLD3's critical role in DNA replication reveals its necessity for both tumor and healthy cells, casting doubt on its use as a therapeutic target for cancer treatment. The study used genetic engineering to eliminate the gene in mice, showing its essential function in cell division and survival.

Rumor patterns on social media during emergencies -- Ben-Gurion U. study

A recent study published in Computers in Human Behavior found that over two-thirds of rumors shared during Operation Brother's Keeper were true, and that journalists and emergency personnel played a significant role in spreading them. The research proposes specific lessons for first responders, including actively searching for rumors a...

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalComputers in Human Behavior·DateSep 6, 2016

BMJ launches new open access ophthalmology journal

BMJ has launched a new fully open access international journal, BMJ Open Ophthalmology, to cater for clinicians and scientists working in ophthalmology and vision science. The journal aims to publish high-quality content on basic, translational, and clinical science with a rigorous peer review process.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open Ophthalmology·DateSep 6, 2016

Bad seeds: How the parental lineage may determine viability in tomato hybrids

Researchers found misregulated imprinting at play in hybrid seeds from South American wild tomato species, affecting core gene regulation and contributing to seed failure. Genome-wide shifts occurred that favored maternal expression, suggesting a key role for epigenetic genomic imprinting in explaining differences in seed viability.

Evidence of Zika virus found in tears

Researchers have found Zika virus genetic material in human tears and live virus in mouse eyes, raising questions about transmission through bodily fluids. The study's findings have implications for corneal transplantation and potential new diagnostic methods, such as testing tear samples for viral RNA or antibodies.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 6, 2016

Barcodes to identify gene regulators

A group of biologists from the University of Geneva developed a novel technology to identify all transcription factors involved in any process and in response to any signal. The BC-STAR-PROM screening method enables researchers to monitor the activity of thousands of promoters simultaneously, saving time and work.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalGenes & Development·DateSep 6, 2016

Intervention addresses pediatric patient families' social needs

A study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that an intervention pairing caregivers with navigators to address family social needs decreased reported needs and improved child health status. Caregivers assigned to the intervention group reported fewer social needs and better overall child health compared to those in a control group.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateSep 6, 2016

Hypertension: Releasing the pressure at its source

Researchers have identified a potential new way to treat high blood pressure by targeting aberrant nerve signals in the carotid bodies. By blocking these signals, they were able to significantly reduce blood pressure in preclinical models, suggesting a novel approach to controlling cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Medicine·DateSep 6, 2016

Hungry cells on the move

Researchers identified molecules controlling cell repulsion through endocytosis, a process by which cells engulf neighboring protein complexes. This discovery provides insight into development and neuronal networks, as well as cancer growth and metastasis.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateSep 6, 2016

High utility bills trigger anxiety and depression in low-income households

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that high utility bills lead to mental health disorders like anxiety and depression among low-income families. Inefficient infrastructure and limited options for assistance also contribute to the problem, highlighting the need for comprehensive policy measures.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateSep 6, 2016

Farming adaptations needed to combat climate change to impact crop yields in 2050

Researchers find using heat-tolerant sorghum varieties can increase crop yield under higher temperatures, but late sowing and collecting rainfall show minimal benefits. The study suggests a novel framework to assess the effectiveness of different adaptation options for West African farmers.

The enigma machine takes a quantum leap

The researchers created a device called a quantum enigma machine that can transmit an unbreakable encrypted message using a key significantly shorter than the message, advancing the field of quantum data locking. The team successfully demonstrated six bits of classical information being securely locked in with only one bit of encryptio...

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalPhysical Review A·DateSep 6, 2016

Refrigerator us warm?

A new discovery at RUDN University allows for substantially increased production of high-quality planting material using artificial winter in the fridge. This method uses micro cloning to grow plants from small buds, with potential benefits including increased plant height, reduced virus attacks, and improved plant health.

A first for direct-drive fusion

Researchers successfully created conditions for a fusion yield five times higher than current record using the OMEGA laser. The direct-drive approach, used by LLE scientists, is promising for achieving fusion as an energy source.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 6, 2016

Recessions are harmful to health

A review of studies on the 2008 European recession found an association with adverse health outcomes, particularly for suicides and mental health problems. The evidence is strongest for these outcomes, but the quality of the research varies greatly.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateSep 6, 2016

New simulations of wind power generation

Researchers have created a more realistic picture of wind energy output in Europe, correcting for biases in existing data. The updated simulations show that the current European average capacity factor is 24.2%, but could increase to over 31% with improved grid interconnection and technology advancements.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalEnergy·DateSep 6, 2016