Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive August 2017 - Page 28


Page 28 of 41

Researchers use CRISPR to manipulate social behavior in ants

Researchers used CRISPR to manipulate ant eggs, resulting in germline changes that affect every cell in the adult colony. The study found that knocking out the orco gene affected olfaction, social behavior, and brain anatomy, providing insights into gene regulation and its impact on complex biological systems.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateAug 10, 2017

For bacteria that cheat, food is at the forefront

New research at Oregon State University found that bacteria prioritize their own fitness when nutrients are limited, but not when iron, phosphorus, and sulfur are abundant. This study provides insights into the evolution of cooperation in microbes and has implications for understanding natural populations.

SourceOregon State University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 10, 2017

Cellular transport routes

Biologists in Konstanz have identified a crucial step in the labelling and transportation process of proteins in plant cells. The SH3P2 protein plays a key role in binding to ubiquitin molecules, marking them for transport to the vacuole.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 10, 2017

Certain occupations linked to an increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis

A new study published in Arthritis Care & Research found that male workers in the manufacturing sector have a higher risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis than those in other sectors. Women working in certain occupations, such as assistant nurses and attendants, also showed a slightly increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateAug 10, 2017

Researchers identify prognostic indicators of survival following pancreatic tumor removal

A study of 43 patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma found two preoperative factors strongly predictive of poor prognosis, regardless of tumor stage. These biomarkers, C-reactive protein/albumin ratio and prognostic nutritional index, may help plan treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Pancreatic Cancer·DateAug 10, 2017

Rotavirus vaccines continue to reduce diarrhea hospitalizations, medical costs in US kids

New study confirms the sustained impact of rotavirus vaccination in reducing diarrhea hospitalizations among US children under 5, with estimated savings of $1.2 billion in direct medical costs. Researchers found that hospitalization rates decreased by between 31-55% following routine vaccine introduction in 2006.

SourcePediatric Infectious Diseases Society·JournalJournal of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society·DateAug 10, 2017

Nemours, UD technology pushes cancer research forward

Researchers at Nemours Biomedical Research and University of Delaware have developed a patent-pending process to bridge the gap between 3D cell cultures and high throughput screening techniques. This allows for greater predictability of drug effectiveness and toxicity, leading to lower attrition rates in new medicine development.

SourceNemours·JournalAnalytical Biochemistry·DateAug 10, 2017

IV and cellular fluids power flexible batteries

Researchers have developed bendable batteries that can run on biocompatible liquids like normal IV saline solution and cell-culture medium, outperforming most wearable lithium-ion batteries in charge-holding capacity and power output. The batteries' design also enables potential biomedical applications, such as consuming essential oxyg...

SourceCell Press·JournalChem·DateAug 10, 2017

eGenesis study addresses cross-species viral transmission concern in xenotransplantation published in Science

Researchers at eGenesis have successfully produced the first PERV-free piglets using CRISPR technology, addressing safety concerns in xenotransplantation. The breakthrough demonstrates the potential of gene editing to prevent cross-species viral transmission and pave the way for safe human transplantable cells, tissues, and organs.

SourcePure Communications Inc.·JournalScience·DateAug 10, 2017

Yoda bat gets happy: New species officially recognized

A new species of fruit bat, previously nicknamed 'Yoda' due to its resemblance to the Star Wars Jedi Master, has been officially recognized and renamed the happy (Hamamas) tube-nosed fruit bat. The species was discovered in Papua New Guinea and distinguished from other similar species based on unique morphological characteristics.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalRecords of the Australian Museum·DateAug 10, 2017

Chimpanzees learn rock-paper-scissors

A study shows that chimpanzees can learn the rock-paper-scissors game, but takes longer to grasp the third pair. The research team also taught the game to preschool children, who learned it quickly and accurately, especially as they aged.

SourceSpringer·JournalPrimates·DateAug 10, 2017

Plants love microbes -- and so do farmers

A study by University of Queensland researchers has confirmed that microbial communities necessary for plant development have a significant impact on crop and plant yields. The study also found that plants' limited ability to vertically transmit microorganisms between generations is a key factor in their relationship with microbes.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 10, 2017

Financial distress in cancer care

A study by Fumiko Chino and colleagues found that nearly all insured cancer patients experience financial burden, with those underinsured paying up to 31% of their income on healthcare costs. The research highlights the need for interventions to improve patient health care cost literacy and mitigate future treatment-related expenses.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Oncology·DateAug 10, 2017