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Science News Archive February 2017 - Page 36


Page 36 of 37

Scientists prove new approach to Polio vaccines works

A research team at the University of Leeds has identified new mutations that make 'empty capsids' stable enough to act as vaccines, replacing traditional killed poliovirus vaccines. The stabilised VLPs are suitable for use after the virus has been eradicated and can be produced without growing live virus.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalJournal of Virology·DateFeb 1, 2017

Hand-grip test can indicate decline in physical function of Parkinson's patients

A recent study published in Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation found that hand-grip strength is a reliable indicator of physical function decline in Parkinson's patients. The researchers used a portable monitoring device to measure muscle activity, showing that the test was conclusive and easy to administer.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalArchives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation·DateFeb 1, 2017

Novel liquid crystal could triple sharpness of today's televisions

Researchers developed a new blue-phase liquid crystal that can enable televisions and computer screens to pack more pixels into the same space while reducing power consumption. The material can achieve a resolution density of up to 1500 pixels per inch, which triples the sharpness of today's TVs.

SourceOptica·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateFeb 1, 2017

Early signs of anxiety, depression may be evident in newborns

A study found that brain connectivity patterns in newborns can predict the development of anxiety and depression. Healthy full-term babies had similar brain connection patterns to adults, while premature infants showed decreased connections between the amygdala and other brain regions, increasing the risk of early symptoms.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateFeb 1, 2017

Food insecurity: A threat to the developmental and psychosocial health of children

A systematic review of 23 studies found associations between food insecurity and adverse childhood developmental-behavioral outcomes in infants, toddlers, preschoolers, school-age children, and adolescents. Food insecurity is linked to impaired cognitive development, academic performance, mental health symptoms, and behavioral problems.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateFeb 1, 2017

UT Southwestern researchers identify gene that protects against inflammatory bowel disease

Researchers identified a gene called Gatm that plays a crucial role in maintaining the intestinal mucosal barrier, which guards against inflammation caused by bacteria. Mice with a mutation in this gene showed improved symptoms when treated with creatine, highlighting its importance for energy metabolism in IBD.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2017

Risk of liver cancer is low in patients with cirrhosis

A recent study published in Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics found that the 10-year incidence of liver cancer in UK patients with cirrhosis is as low as 4%. Patients with cirrhosis due to chronic viral hepatitis have the highest risk, but even then, it's lower than expected.

SourceWiley·JournalAlimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics·DateFeb 1, 2017

Challenges of breeding 'VIPeas'

Crossing chickpeas is challenging due to self-pollination and inbreeding. Researchers found that emasculation and hormone treatment do not increase cross-pollination rates, instead lowering success rates. Studying environmental factors like light, temperature, and humidity may improve breeding efficiency.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateFeb 1, 2017

High-resolution imaging reveals new understanding of battery cathode particles

Scientists at Berkeley Lab discovered particle cracking in cathode materials during charging and discharging, reducing battery capacity and life. The research provides unprecedented mechanistic understanding of electrode material and potential ways to minimize cracking, leading to improved stability and longer battery lifespan.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 1, 2017