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Science News Archive September 2017 - Page 2


Page 2 of 39

How molecular scissors cut in the right place

Researchers at Uppsala University discovered how CRISPR-Cas9 finds its target sequence in the genome, taking around six hours to search a bacterium's four million base pairs. To improve speed and reliability, they found that sacrificing Cas9's flexibility can lead to faster, but still versatile genetic scissors.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScience·DateSep 28, 2017

Uncovering why psoriasis recurs

A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital researchers identifies a population of tissue resident memory cells that may be driving recurrence in psoriasis. These cells, which live long-term in the skin, can cause misguided immune responses leading to red, inflamed patches on the skin.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 28, 2017

End to circus in plastic surgery social media videos?

A new code of ethical behavior for sharing plastic surgery videos on social media aims to curb vulgar content and prioritize patient safety. The guidelines, proposed by Northwestern Medicine authors, are based on four guiding principles of medical ethics and will be presented at the American Society of Plastic Surgeons annual meeting.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateSep 28, 2017

Biodegradable microsensors for food monitoring

Researchers at ETH Zurich have created biocompatible microsensors made from magnesium wire and compostable polymer for temperature measurement in food products. The sensors are thin, flexible, and can function for up to 67 days before dissolving, making them suitable for monitoring fish shipments.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateSep 28, 2017

Fluorine-containing molecules from cell cultures

Researchers genetically engineered a microbial host to produce fluorinated metabolites and bioplastics, leveraging the potential of living systems to create complex chemical compounds. The breakthrough enables controlled incorporation of fluorine into polyhydroxyalkanoates, resulting in more durable and targeted bioplastics.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 28, 2017

Students know about learning strategies -- but don't use them

A survey of university students found that many know about common learning strategies, but fewer actually use them. The reasons include lack of time, ineffective application, and difficulty in seeing the benefits. To improve this, universities should provide more self-regulated learning training, including hands-on practice to learn ho...

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateSep 28, 2017

Computer model showed an optimal anti-amyloid treatment

A computer model developed by InSysBio scientists suggests that activating beta-amyloid degradation is key to preventing protein plaques in the brain. The model found that starting treatment at age 60 can lead to relative normalization of indices, highlighting the importance of early intervention.

SourceInSysBio LLC·JournalCPT Pharmacometrics & Systems Pharmacology·DateSep 28, 2017

Making surgical screws from bones

Researchers are developing surgical screws from donated human bone material, reducing the risk of complications and eliminating the need for second surgeries. The technology, developed by TU Graz's Institute of Biomechanics, is being used in 14 Austrian hospitals and aims to improve outcomes for foot and jaw surgery patients.

Abusive bosses experience short-lived benefits

Researchers found that abusive supervisors experience a sense of recovery from their behavior, which helps replenish mental energy and resources. However, this benefit is short-lived, lasting only a week or less, after which they start to experience decreased trust, support, and productivity from employees.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateSep 28, 2017

Database of earthquakes triggered by human activity is growing -- with some surprises

The Human-Induced Earthquake Database has grown to over 730 entries, revealing that mining projects and water impounded behind dams are the most common causes of induced earthquakes. Unconventional oil and gas extraction using hydraulic fracturing is also a frequent contributor, according to geophysicist Miles Wilson.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalSeismological Research Letters·DateSep 28, 2017

Supersonic gas streams left over from the Big Bang drive massive black hole formation

Researchers used super-computer simulations to recreate the formation of a massive black hole from supersonic gas streams left over from the Big Bang. The study suggests these black holes could be the source of the largest and oldest super-massive black holes in the Universe, posing a challenge to existing theories.