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Science News Archive October 2017 - Page 39


Page 39 of 43

Tubules to stop cell growth

Researchers discovered how TORC1 protein complexes regulate cell growth in response to sugar availability. In the absence of sugar, these complexes self-assemble into massive tubular structures that halt cell growth. The formation and disassembly of these tubules can be easily observed in living cells.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature·DateOct 4, 2017

Ancient petrified salamander reveals its last meal

A 35-million-year-old salamander fossil from France has yielded a unique glimpse into the life of an ancient creature. Researchers have successfully imaged the internal anatomy of the specimen using advanced x-ray imaging techniques, revealing that it fed on frogs - a rare food source for salamanders.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·DateOct 3, 2017

Incidence of measles in the United States

The overall annual incidence of measles in the United States remained low from 2001 to 2015, with most cases reported among unvaccinated individuals. The study suggests that failure to vaccinate may be the main driver of measles transmission, highlighting the importance of maintaining high vaccine coverage.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateOct 3, 2017

Cooling treatment reduces epilepsy in children

A new study published in Epilepsia found that cooling treatment for newborns who suffer from perinatal asphyxia significantly reduces the number of children developing epilepsy later in childhood. The research also showed improved cognitive performance, life quality, and life expectancy for these patients.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalEpilepsia·DateOct 3, 2017

Monitoring microbes to keep Marsonauts healthy

A comprehensive study monitored microbial load, diversity and dynamics in a closed habitat for 520 days, finding human-associated bacteria to be the main source of microbial dispersal. The researchers also noted that confinement triggered significant changes in the bacterial community, with diversity decreasing over time.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalMicrobiome·DateOct 3, 2017

Online parent training helps young kids with ADHD

Researchers at Lehigh University found brief online behavioral therapy for parents is equally effective to in-person training in improving children's behavior and parental knowledge. Parents participating in the streamlined 10-week format were more likely to be engaged and complete training.

SourceLehigh University·JournalJournal of Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology·DateOct 3, 2017

Does the titanium dioxide in food and nanomaterials affect the gut microbiome?

A new study published in Environmental Engineering Science found that titanium dioxide, commonly used in foods and coatings, can affect the types of bacteria present in the human gut and its pH. The study suggests that food-grade TiO2 produces different microbial responses compared to industrial-grade particles.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalEnvironmental Engineering Science·DateOct 3, 2017

Morbidity and mortality of leprosy in the Middle Ages

A new study analyzing medieval skeletons found that contracting leprosy increased a person's chances of dying, but social status and sex also played roles. The researchers created a model to explore morbidity and mortality through a unique data set, shedding light on the complexities of the disease in the past.

SourceSanta Fe Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateOct 3, 2017

Trastuzumab treatment need not delay breast reconstruction following mastectomy

A new study has found that trastuzumab treatment does not increase the risk of surgical site complications that require intervention after breast reconstruction. Immediate breast reconstruction may be possible for patients receiving trastuzumab alone, but those on combination targeted HER-2 treatment should delay surgery.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateOct 3, 2017

Too little is known about wildfire smoke

A review by UC Davis graduate students highlights the need for research on wildfire smoke's composition and its impact on human health. The study found that current scientific evidence is insufficient, and pesticides and fire-suppression chemicals used in California contribute to the toxic effects of wildfire smoke.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalCurrent Topics in Toxicology·DateOct 3, 2017

Livestock grazing harming giant panda habitat

A new study reveals that livestock grazing has damaged one-third of giant panda habitat in the park, with bamboos being a crucial food source. The degradation coincides with a nine-fold increase in livestock numbers over 15 years, driven by factors such as increased consumer demand for meat and unclear government policies.

SourceDuke University·JournalBiological Conservation·DateOct 3, 2017

Study: Women firefighters can improve safety, but department culture must change

A new study from Drexel University found that incorporating diverse ideas from women can improve safety in traditionally male fire departments. However, female firefighters often face hostile cultures and feel unwelcome due to hypermasculine environments. This can lead to a lack of reporting of injuries, which can be career-ending.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of Workplace Behavioral Health·DateOct 3, 2017