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Science News Archive June 2017 - Page 11


Page 11 of 40

Cells in fish's spinal discs repair themselves

Researchers discovered a unique repair mechanism in zebrafish spinal discs that protects fluid-filled cells from mechanical stress and promotes regeneration. The study suggests that this mechanism, triggered by the release of nucleotides, may be present in humans at early stages but is lost over time.

SourceDuke University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 22, 2017

New brain network model could explain differences in brain injuries

A new brain network model suggests that understanding brain connections and structure can help predict how brain function changes after injury. The study identified key white matter pathways and lesions responsible for network disruptions, which could lead to more accurate treatment plans and therapeutic targets.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJun 22, 2017

Stereotypes still affect females' career aspirations in STEM topics

A study found that even female students with good grades in STEM subjects are still corrupted by stereotypes, leading to lower self-confidence and perceptions of incompetence. Indirect support measures, such as positive experiences and role models, are more effective than direct encouragement in boosting their self-concept.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 22, 2017

How pythons regenerate their organs and other secrets of the snake genome

Scientists study Burmese pythons' ability to regenerate organs after feeding, identifying key genes that drive regenerative growth. The team also explores the genetic basis of evolution in snakes and lizards, shedding light on the mechanisms behind unique traits such as venom composition and reproductive differences.

Human genes for coronary artery disease make them more prolific parents

A genetic study suggests that human genes for coronary artery disease contribute to greater numbers of children, providing an evolutionary trade-off between early-life reproductive benefits and later-life disease costs. The study uses genome-wide scans and lifetime reproductive data to identify genetic variation linked to the disease.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJun 22, 2017

Turtle go-slow zone extensions needed

A study by James Cook University scientists found that turtles are present throughout the bay, mostly staying in water less than five meters deep. Extending shallow go-slow zones could protect nearly half or more of turtle habitats if combined with a small buffer zone into deeper waters.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalOcean & Coastal Management·DateJun 22, 2017

How pheromones trigger female sexual behavior

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have discovered how a male pheromone enhances female sexual behaviors in mice by activating specific neurons in the brain. The study found that a single purified chemical called ESP1 is detected by a sole corresponding receptor, making it easier to track and understand its effects on behavior.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNeuron·DateJun 22, 2017

Video games can change your brain

Research has shown that playing video games can change the brain regions responsible for attention and visuospatial skills, making them more efficient. Additionally, studies have found evidence of increased brain activity in reward system regions associated with internet gaming disorder.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Human Neuroscience·DateJun 22, 2017

Biofilms -- the eradication has begun

Scientists at McGill University Health Centre develop novel enzyme technology that prevents and breaks down biofilms, exposing microbes to antibiotics and host defenses. This approach has huge potential to combat biofilm-associated infections responsible for thousands of deaths across North America.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 22, 2017

Researchers design sounds that can be recorded by microphones but inaudible to humans

Researchers at the University of Illinois have designed a sound that is completely inaudible to humans yet is audible to any microphone. This technique, called 'BackDoor,' has numerous applications, including securing private conversations and protecting confidential meetings from electronic eavesdropping. The signal can also be used t...

Lessons from whale population collapse could help future species at risk

A study of historic whaling records reveals early warning signs of global population collapse up to 40 years before the event for four whale species. The research provides a potential tool for predicting which species are at risk due to environmental pressures such as overfishing and climate change.

A rising star

Researchers at UCSB used star ascidian to study the interaction between cells and their physical environment, finding a mechanism that allows blood vessels to shrink without impeding blood flow. This discovery has implications for understanding cellular development and metastasis in cancer.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalMolecular Biology of the Cell·DateJun 22, 2017

More guns now being purchased for self-defense than recreation

A new study found that more lethal weapons are being manufactured and sold for self-defense purposes, rather than recreational use. The study analyzed data from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and found a significant increase in the production of high-caliber pistols and rifles between 2004 and 2015.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJun 22, 2017