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Science News Archive 2017 - Page 74


Page 74 of 461

Hacking evolution, screening technique may improve most widespread enzyme

Researchers identified an improved form of the enzyme Rubisco, which can enhance carbon dioxide-fixation kinetics. The new screening strategy enabled the discovery of 11 mutations that increased efficiency, with potential applications in crops and sustainable food production.

Physicists describe new dark matter detection strategy

Researchers propose a new method for directly detecting dark matter by exploiting the interaction between superfluid helium and potential dark matter particles. The strategy involves a tub of helium and a positively charged metal pin array to amplify the tiny energy signature of a released atom, enabling the detection of single atoms a...

Mandated coverage for fertility preservation featured in NEJM

A new law in Rhode Island requires coverage for fertility preservation prior to gonadotoxic medical therapy. The authors of the perspective published in NEJM recommend revising existing non-infertility-related mandates or establishing a separate definition for fertility preservation, which could encourage other states to follow suit.

SourceCare New England·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 1, 2017

Do animals think rationally?

Researcher suggests a wide range of animal species exhibit executive control when making decisions, consciously considering their goals and ways to satisfy them. Studies have shown that elephants, chimpanzees, ravens, and lions engage in rational decision-making, remembering specific events, using tools, and solving problems.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalPhilosophy and Phenomenological Research·DateNov 1, 2017

Vanderbilt study shows azithromycin overprescribed for childhood pneumonia

A recent Vanderbilt University Medical Center study found that combination therapy with azithromycin is unnecessary in most cases of pediatric pneumonia. The study of 1418 children showed no significant differences in outcomes between patients treated with a single antibiotic versus a combination of antibiotics. The researchers argue t...

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateNov 1, 2017

Young bats learn bat 'dialects' from their nestmates

A new study shows that young bats adopt a specific 'dialect' spoken by their colonies, even when it differs from their mother tongue. Researchers used playback recordings to expose pups to different vocalizations and found they developed a dialect resembling the one they were exposed to.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 31, 2017

Flour power to boost food security

Researchers at the University of Queensland have identified genes that control a cell protein holding wheat grain layers together, leading to improved milling efficiency and nutritional profiles. This breakthrough could increase flour yield by up to 10% and unlock new high-yielding field wheats.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 31, 2017

How an interest in bipolar disorder drugs led to a better understanding of leukemia

A research project that began with an interest in bipolar disorder drugs has led to a better understanding of leukemia. The study found that the protein GSK-3 affects RNA splicing, which is linked to acute myeloid leukemia. This discovery could also explain why lithium causes increased white blood cell count.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 31, 2017

New toolkit reveals novel cancer genes

Researchers have identified 27 novel tumour suppressor genes that may prevent cancer formation, using a powerful statistical model on over 2000 tumours across 12 human cancer types. This discovery could pave the way for targeted cancer therapies and deepen our understanding of cancer genomics.

SourceThe Francis Crick Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 31, 2017

Prenatal exposure to BPA at low levels can affect gene expression in developing rat brain

Research from NC State University reveals that prenatal BPA exposure at levels below the current FDA safety threshold alters hormone receptor expression, synaptic transmission, and neurodevelopment in the developing rat brain. The study found sex-specific differences in sensitivity to BPA exposure, with females appearing more sensitive.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNeuroToxicology·DateOct 31, 2017

The Lancet Oncology: Major report sets out how to accelerate cancer research and care, delivering on US Cancer Moonshot initiative

The Lancet Oncology Commission recommends prioritizing key areas for US$2 billion funding to advance cancer research and treatment, focusing on prevention, targeted interventions, and patient-centered data sharing. The report aims to improve cancer care for underserved groups and reduce health disparities.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateOct 31, 2017

Trends in kids' fitness not as bad as assumed

A study published in Frontiers in Pediatrics found that first-graders in one region of Germany have remained reasonably fit over the past decade. Aerobic fitness has declined only in boys, while speed and balance have improved in both sexes.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Pediatrics·DateOct 31, 2017