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Science News Archive October 2017 - Page 31


Page 31 of 43

Study shows antibody-biogel partnership can be stronger defense than previously thought

Scientists have discovered that weak binding between antibodies and biological gels like mucus is more effective in trapping pathogens, making it a stronger first line of defense. This finding has the potential to revolutionize the treatment and prevention of various diseases by providing new targets for engineered antibodies.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

Genetic advance for male birth control

Researchers at Michigan State University have identified the PNLDC1 gene as a key player in regulating sperm production, providing a genetic foundation for male birth control. The study's findings suggest that silencing this gene can lead to infertility in mice, making it a promising approach for human male contraception.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

Solar flux: From bug to feature

Sandia scientists develop a system to convert surplus solar flux into additional electricity at tower CSP plants, increasing capacity by up to 10 MW and reducing costs. The concept involves cladding the tower with photovoltaic panels, generating over 10% of total capacity.

Growing human brain cells in the lab

Researchers have developed a new, simplified technique to produce homogeneous human brain cells in the lab, accelerating drug screening and disease study. This breakthrough allows for cost-effective production of large quantities of brain cells within weeks, enabling wider adoption in basic science and industry.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateOct 10, 2017

Ibuprofen better choice over oral morphine for pain relief in children after minor surgery

A randomized controlled trial found ibuprofen to be a better choice for postoperative pain relief in children aged 5-17 after minor orthopedic surgery. The study showed that ibuprofen had fewer adverse effects compared to oral morphine, which was associated with significant side effects such as nausea and drowsiness.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 10, 2017

Probing exotic ices

Researchers analyzed how water molecules interact with one another in three types of ice, finding that interactions depend strongly on molecule orientation and ice structure. Insights from this analysis will help understand liquid water and its behavior surrounding biomolecules.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateOct 10, 2017

The Fitbits of food ingestion?

A multi-disciplinary team developed flexible sensors that can sense movement and ingestion in the stomach for at least two days. These devices can harvest energy from the gastrointestinal tract movement and potentially power novel ingestible electronic systems.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateOct 10, 2017

Pest resistance to biotech crops surging

A global assessment reveals that genetically engineered crops producing insect-killing proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis have led to a fivefold increase in pest resistance cases over the past decade. However, some pests remain suppressed due to factors such as recessive inheritance of resistance and abundant refuges.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateOct 10, 2017

Breath instead of a blood test

Scientists at ETH Zurich have developed a method to monitor lipolysis in real-time by analyzing exhaled acetone during exercise. The new breath test can detect when the body starts burning fat, allowing athletes to optimize their training regimen.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateOct 10, 2017

Little growth observed in India's methane emissions

A recent study by the University of Bristol found that India's methane emissions have shown little growth over the last few years, with accurate reporting by the country's authorities. The research used a combination of observations from the surface, an aircraft, and a satellite to quantify India's methane emissions.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

Breeding salt-tolerant plants

Researchers have discovered that quinoa plants can absorb and store salt in bladder cells, allowing them to thrive on saline soils. This unique adaptation enables the plant to recycle energy from sugar molecules to neutralize toxic salt.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 10, 2017

Smartphone apps launched for atrial fibrillation patients and their healthcare providers

Atrial fibrillation patients can use My AF app to access condition information, treatment options, and lifestyle tips. The app also enables face-to-face consultations with healthcare professionals. Meanwhile, AF Manager app helps healthcare providers import patient data, suggest personalized treatment plans, and share notes with patients.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEP Europace·DateOct 10, 2017

Tenfold increase in childhood and adolescent obesity in 4 decades: New study by Imperial College

A new study by Imperial College London and the World Health Organization found that childhood and adolescent obesity rates increased tenfold over four decades, from less than 1% in 1975 to nearly 6% in girls and 8% in boys in 2016. The number of obese children and adolescents is expected to surpass those who are underweight by 2022. He...

SourceImperial College London·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 10, 2017

Antibiotics before low-risk operations do not seem to breed postop antibiotic resistance

A large-scale study found that patients who receive antibiotics before certain types of low-risk operations have the same risk for developing antibiotic-resistant infections as those who don't. The study analyzed data from over 22,000 patients and found no association between prophylactic antibiotic use and postoperative antibiotic res...

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateOct 10, 2017