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Science News Archive May 2017 - Page 20


Page 20 of 42

Brigatinib first to offer over 1-year control of ALK-positive lung cancer post-crizotinib

The FDA approves brigatinib as a second-line therapy for ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer, demonstrating a 54% response rate and 12.9-month progression-free survival. Brigatinib's longer control duration compared to other next-generation ALK inhibitors suggests its broader spectrum of coverage against resistance mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMay 17, 2017

Blind people have brain map for 'visual' observations too

Researchers at KU Leuven found that blind individuals, including those without eyeballs, use the ventral-temporal cortex to categorize visual observations. This region is divided into smaller areas, each recognizing a particular category, such as faces, body parts, and objects.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 17, 2017

Oddball enzyme provides easy path to synthetic biomaterials

Researchers have developed a new method using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) enzyme to produce precise, high molecular weight synthetic biomolecular structures. These structures can be tailored to create single-stranded DNA for self-assembling into ball-like containers for drug delivery or incorporating unnatural nucleotides.

SourceDuke University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMay 16, 2017

Nicotine enhances bees' activity

Scientists at Queen Mary University of London found that nicotine-laced nectar enhances bumblebees' learning of flower colors and creates addiction-like behavior. The study suggests plants may manipulate pollinator behavior using psychoactive substances like nicotine.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 16, 2017

First flat lens for immersion microscope provides alternative to centuries-old technique

Researchers at Harvard SEAS developed a first flat lens for immersion microscopy, providing a cost-effective and easy-to-manufacture alternative to the expensive hand polishing technique. This innovation enhances biological imaging capabilities by enabling the capture of fine detailed geometrical information of objects.

Immunotherapy against bee stings in some cases incomplete

Researchers found that commercial preparations for allergy shots often lack sufficient levels of key allergens, which could affect treatment success. Customized immunotherapy tailored to individual patients' reactions is a promising approach, but its development is still in its infancy.

Treatment in hospital by older doctors linked to higher death rates

A study published in The BMJ found that patients treated by older physicians have higher mortality rates than those cared for by younger physicians, except for those with high patient volumes. However, the researchers note that clinical skills and knowledge accumulated by more experienced physicians can lead to improved quality of care.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateMay 16, 2017

Venom becomes more potent as brown snakes age

Research led by University of Queensland scientist Associate Professor Bryan Fry reveals that brown snake venom attacks the nervous system in young snakes and circulatory system in older ones. This transformation allows the venom to become more potent and deadly, causing internal bleeding and death in humans.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalComparative Biochemistry and Physiology·DateMay 16, 2017

Key to 'superbug' antibiotic resistance discovered

A global health threat, superbugs are bacteria resistant to commonly used antibiotics. Monash University researchers identified the first important clues on how to counter superbug strategies, using electron microscopes and comparing data from antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus samples with non-resistant strains.

SourceMonash University·JournalmBio·DateMay 16, 2017

Ginger may help fight obesity and related disorders

Recent studies have built a consensus that ginger has beneficial effects against obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndrome. Ginger regulates fat metabolism, suppresses carbohydrate digestion, and modulates insulin secretion to help combat these conditions.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·DateMay 16, 2017

Medical abortions obtained through online telemedicine shown to be effective, safe

A new study published in The BMJ found that medical abortions conducted through online telemedicine were successful in 95% of cases, with low rates of complications. Women were able to identify symptoms of potential issues and seek medical attention when needed, suggesting a safe and effective option for those seeking abortion access.