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Science News Archive 2018 - Page 435


Page 435 of 473

Genome wide association study of epigenetic aging rates in blood reveals a critical role for TERT

Researchers analyzed blood samples from nearly 10,000 people and found gene variants associated with intrinsic and extrinsic epigenetic age acceleration. Variants in the TERT gene were linked to older epigenetic aging rates and longer telomeres, highlighting its critical role in regulating the epigenetic clock.

Solving the puzzle of multicellularity

A Wits University PhD student has solved part of the evolutionary puzzle of multicellularity by studying the genomic sequence of a four-celled algae. The research identified the ubiquitin proteasomal pathway as a process controlling cell division, which played a key role in the evolution of multicellularity.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateFeb 2, 2018

New technology: Edible QR code can be the medicine of the future

Researchers at University of Copenhagen develop edible QR code technology that enables precise dosing and storage of medical data, reducing wrong medication and fake medicine. The technology has the potential to transform the pharmaceutical supply chain and enable innovative production of personalized medicine.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - The Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences·JournalInternational Journal of Pharmaceutics·DateFeb 2, 2018

Genetic factors that make babies susceptible to complications from Zika are identified

Researchers found that genes in neural progenitor cells of affected babies were more active or less active in key signaling pathways, contributing to the development of congenital Zika syndrome. The study used twins and induced pluripotent stem cell technology to replicate the virus's effects in vitro.

Can your brain testify against you?

A review explores the applications of neuroscience in law, highlighting the need for clear guidelines to balance potential benefits with civil liberties. The use of neuroscientific evidence raises concerns about individual rights and privacy, particularly in determining guilt and intent.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateFeb 2, 2018

New controls scale quantum chips

Engineers at Rigetti Computing have developed a technique to reduce qubit interference, allowing for the creation of larger practical quantum processors. This breakthrough enables the retention of logical operations independent of the state of a large quantum register.

SourceRigetti Computing·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 2, 2018

Analyzing street drugs points to potential early warning system in opioid crisis

A new study suggests that analyzing street drugs can serve as an early warning system for the opioid crisis. The University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health has developed a method to quickly analyze stamp bags, which contain mixtures of illicit drugs, to detect fentanyl and other high-lethality substances.

Nano-switches in the cell

Researchers have discovered a new mechanism by which mitochondria regulate protein synthesis in response to oxidative stress. Using quantitative mass spectrometry and biochemical methods, the team identified redox-active thiols that can slow down cellular protein synthesis machinery when reactive oxygen species are present.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2018

New research on why GPs quit patient care

A recent study by University of Exeter researchers has identified three main themes influencing GPs' decisions to leave or remain in direct patient care. The findings highlight concerns about the under-value of general practice within the healthcare system, professional risk in delivering care, and considerations about career options.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBMJ Open·DateFeb 2, 2018

An unbiased approach for sifting through big data

Researchers developed a novel probabilistic approach to mine big data, enabling the creation of an 'Optimal Information Network' (OIN) for assessing health outcomes in U.S. cities. The OIN identified poor and favorable health metrics, with some cities showing high variability over time.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 2, 2018

The disappearance of common species

A study published in Biological Conservation found that widespread insects are threatened with a decline in species diversity, genetic diversity, and ability to adapt to environmental changes. The research highlights the importance of maintaining genetic diversity through population exchange for common species.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalBiological Conservation·DateFeb 1, 2018

Zeroing in on dopamine

Researchers at Harvard Medical School have identified the molecular machinery responsible for precise dopamine release in the brain, challenging current models of dopamine signaling. The study found specialized active release sites that enable fast and spatially precise secretion of dopamine.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateFeb 1, 2018

Typical woman or typical man?

The Berlin Institute of Health (BIH) recognizes Professors Louise Pilote and Rhonda Voskuhl for their pioneering work on sex and gender differences in cardiovascular diseases and multiple sclerosis. Their research focuses on incorporating gender aspects into medical practice.

The benefits of social media for young people in care

Young people in care benefit from social media by maintaining healthy birth family relationships and friendships, making new connections, and easing transitions. Social media provides emotional support, increased self-esteem, and mental well-being, helping reduce stigma and shame associated with being in care.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalThe British Journal of Social Work·DateFeb 1, 2018