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Science News Archive June 2017 - Page 19


Page 19 of 40

Bacteria free themselves with molecular 'speargun'

Researchers discovered that the pathogen Francisella tularensis uses a nano-machine called type VI secretion system (T6SS) to disrupt digestive vesicles and escape into the cytosol, allowing it to rapidly replicate. This efficient defense mechanism is crucial for the bacterium's success in an infection.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 16, 2017

Nickel for thought: Compound shows potential for high-temperature superconductivity

A team of researchers at Argonne National Laboratory has identified a nickel oxide compound with promising properties for high-temperature superconductivity. The compound, a metallic trilayer nickelate, successfully synthesized single crystals that resemble cuprate materials, a crucial step towards solving the field's defining problem.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 16, 2017

Genes and the environment? Factors, patterns that lead to childhood obesity risk

Researchers identify a three-way interaction between genetics, body mass index, and parent-child communication patterns in predicting restrictive feeding practices that contribute to childhood obesity. Genetic variations affect emotion regulation, influencing parents' responses to children's negative emotions.

Shaking Schroedinger's cat

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have discovered that quasimeasurements, a new type of measurement interaction, cause the quantum Zeno effect and anti-Zeno effect. The disturbance from these measurements shifts the energy levels of the atom, leading to faster or slower decay rates.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 16, 2017

New approach to unlock the genetic potential of plant cell wall

The study provides detailed information about the genetics of crop plants, enabling breeders to identify key genes responsible for cell wall properties. By linking this data to specific changes in genetic information, researchers can make targeted improvements to support agricultural industries and biofuel production.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2017

Viral vectors for gene transfer travel longer distances in the brain than thought

Researchers found that artificial viruses can infect brain cells and surrounding tissues beyond the injection site, influencing the immune response. The study's findings could improve the selection of suitable viral 'gene transporters' for custom therapies, offering a glimmer of hope for patients with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

SourceUniversity of Veterinary Medicine -- Vienna·JournalHistochemistry and Cell Biology·DateJun 16, 2017

New effective treatments for psoriatic arthritis patients

Two new drug classes, tofacitinib and guselkumab, have shown significant improvements in treating psoriatic arthritis. Tofacitinib demonstrated superiority over placebo in ACR20 response rates and HAQ-DI score at 3 months, while guselkumab improved joint symptoms, physical function, and quality of life in patients with active PsA.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 16, 2017

Among farmworkers, immigrants are less likely to use SNAP

A new study from UC Davis researchers found that immigrant farmworkers are less likely to use the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) compared to their US-born counterparts. The analysis of comprehensive data on farmworker households showed a significant increase in SNAP participation among citizens, while immigrants and H...

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Immigrant and Minority Health·DateJun 16, 2017

Gout hospitalization exacerbated by failure to prescribe recommended urate-lowering treatment

A Swedish study found a significant increase in gout hospitalizations between 2000 and 2012, with only one-fourth of patients receiving recommended urate-lowering treatment. In contrast, a UK study showed that nurse-provided patient education and support significantly improved adherence to ULT, leading to better patient outcomes.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 16, 2017

Volcanic crystals give a new view of magma

Scientists have found that magma reservoirs are less liquid and more crystalline than previously thought, with most crystals retaining their structure for tens of thousands of years before being exposed to molten magma. This discovery could help predict when volcanoes pose the greatest risk by identifying those with mobile magma.

How to educate future therapists more effectively

A Concordia study identifies conflicting demands of education and therapy in the classroom, causing emotional stress among students. The study recommends increased transparency between teachers and students, clearer policies on affective material, and discussions on ethical practices to enhance the student experience.

SourceConcordia University·JournalThe Arts in Psychotherapy·DateJun 15, 2017