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Science News Archive 2018 - Page 469


Page 469 of 473

Radiation therapy algorithm could reduce side effects, maintain effect against tumors

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a mathematical model for computing radiation therapy treatments that could substantially reduce patient side effects while delivering the same results as conventional radiation therapy. The new approach, known as spatiotemporal fractionation, delivers different doses to part...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalPhysics in Medicine and Biology·DateJan 5, 2018

Temperature may affect pollen color

New research on Campanula americana found that temperature influences pollen pigmentation, with dark pollen outperforming light under higher temperatures but not elevated UV. This study suggests temperature stress may play a significant role in geographic variation of pollen color.

SourceWiley·JournalNew Phytologist·DateJan 5, 2018

First discover the disorder and then find the patients

Scientists at Bielefeld University confirm the presence of a previously unknown genetic defect 'MPS III-E' causing progressive blindness and inner ear hearing impairment in patients. Biochemical studies revealed that the disorder is caused by an enzyme deficiency, which can be treated with biotechnological enzyme replacement therapy.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateJan 5, 2018

Study shows treeshrews break evolutionary 'rules'

A new study reveals that treeshrews defy two widely tested rules governing geographical variation within species: the island rule and Bergmann's rule. In contrast to predictions, treeshrew populations exhibit no size difference between mainland and island habitats.

SourceYale University·JournalEcology and Evolution·DateJan 5, 2018

Depression in black adolescents requires different treatment

A new study led by Rutgers University-Camden researcher Wenhua Lu found that Black adolescents express depressive symptoms through complaints about interpersonal struggles and physical pains. This highlights the need for clinicians to tailor treatments such as interpersonal psychotherapy to address these unique expressions of depression.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of the Society for Social Work and Research·DateJan 5, 2018

Study boosts hope for cheaper fuel cells

Researchers at Rice University have optimized nanomaterials for fuel-cell cathodes, revealing that nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes and graphene nanoribbons can replace platinum to boost fuel cell efficiency. The study showed that the right balance of binding energy is crucial for good catalytic performance.

SourceRice University·JournalNanoscale·DateJan 5, 2018

How Zika infection drives fetal demise

A powerful antiviral protein acts as a checkpoint for keeping or ending pregnancy. Mouse fetuses with the protein commit cell suicide when exposed to Zika virus, while those without it continue to develop. The study suggests that this signaling pathway plays a role in spontaneous abortions and other human pregnancy complications.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalScience Immunology·DateJan 5, 2018

Touchy nanotubes work better when clean

Scientists at Rice and Swansea universities discovered that removing contaminants from carbon nanotubes enhances their conductivity. Vacuum annealing at high temperatures reduced surface contamination, allowing accurate resistance measurements. This breakthrough could lead to more consistent results in nanoscale devices.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateJan 4, 2018

Newly published report outlines roadmap for modernizing inhalation toxicity testing

A new report recommends steps toward achieving global regulatory acceptance of non-animal testing approaches for acute inhalation toxicity. The report highlights the need for more efficient and human-relevant methods that don't use animals, with working groups formed to gather reference data and conduct testing.

Accessing your own genomic data is a civil right but requires strategies to manage safety

The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) created an individual access right to genomic data, but its implementation has been marred by controversy and conflicting regulations. Bioethicists and safety regulators have raised concerns about the misuse of genetic data, while lawmakers argue that GINA solves a non-existent problem.

SourceCell Press·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJan 4, 2018

Danforth Center uncovers a genetic mechanism that could enhance yield in cereal crops

Researchers at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center have discovered a genetic mechanism that controls developmental traits related to grain production in cereals. The study found that precise regulation of plant hormones, specifically brassinosteroids, can modulate growth and differentiation of unique inflorescence morphology.

SourceDonald Danforth Plant Science Center·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateJan 4, 2018