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Science News Archive December 2017 - Page 13


Page 13 of 33

Revealing the best-kept secrets of proteins

Scientists at Salk Institute develop novel approach to discover critical contacts on proteins, uncovering new functions for well-studied proteins. The technique has significant implications for therapeutic drug development, which relies heavily on physical interaction with cellular targets.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalGenetics·DateDec 14, 2017

Drinking hot tea every day linked to lower glaucoma risk

A study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology found that drinking hot tea at least once a day is linked to a significantly lower risk of developing glaucoma. The researchers analyzed data from over 10,000 US adults and found that hot tea-drinkers were 74% less likely to have glaucoma compared to non-tea drinkers.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Ophthalmology·DateDec 14, 2017

Conserving the forests

A new study estimates that sustainability certification significantly reduced deforestation in Indonesian plantations, saving 21 square kilometers of forests from destruction. However, the actual area conserved was surprisingly small, and more robust protection is necessary to effectively conserve tropical forests.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 14, 2017

Autism traits increase thoughts of suicide in people with psychosis

Research led by Professor Stephen Wood at Orygen found that individuals with autism traits and psychosis are at a greater risk of depression and suicidal thoughts. The study suggests that identifying autism traits can help identify those most at risk of suicide, highlighting the need for better training and assessments.

SourceOrygen·JournalSchizophrenia Research·DateDec 14, 2017

Bioluminescent succinate detection monitors dioxygenases and JMJC demethylases

A new homogeneous assay detects succinate using luminescence, enabling the investigation of a large number of structurally conserved enzymes belonging to the Fe(II)/2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase superfamily. This method has significant applications in dioxygenase research and has the potential to impact human diseases.

Behavior of millions still shaped by Industrial Revolution

Researchers found that people living in former industrial heartlands are more prone to negative emotions, impulsive behaviors, and struggle with planning and self-motivation. This psychological adversity is thought to be the result of selective migrations during mass industrialization and its social effects on work and living conditions.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateDec 14, 2017

Mild traumatic brain injury causes long-term damage in mice

Researchers found that mild traumatic brain injury can lead to lifelong degenerative changes, including learning and working memory impairment. Studies on mice revealed ongoing neuroinflammation and neuron projection degeneration after a single or repetitive TBI, with some animals showing motor deficits.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of Clinical and Translational Neurology·DateDec 14, 2017

Climate scientists study the odds of a US megadrought

Researchers developed a statistical model to understand the frequency and severity of megadroughts in the western US. They analyzed tree ring evidence from 800 to 1300 A.D. and found that megadroughts occur naturally, with some events potentially linked to solar activity or other non-climatic factors.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Climate·DateDec 14, 2017