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Science News for February 2, 2018


Building miniature optical antennas using DNA as a guide

Aalto University researchers have developed a new method called DALI (DNA-assisted lithography) to fabricate precise metallic nanostructures with designed plasmonic properties. The technique uses self-assembled DNA origami shapes as 'stencils' to create millions of fully metallic nanostructures. These structures have intriguing optical...

SourceAalto University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 2, 2018

Lobachevsky University scientists synthesize a new compound with anti-tumor properties

Researchers at Lobachevsky University have synthesized a multifunctional compound with anti-tumor properties, achieved through the combination of a photoactive organic dye, biological vector, linker, and hydrophilizing fragments. The new compound selectively accumulates in tumor tissues due to its ability to bind to growth factor recep...

SourceLobachevsky University·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateFeb 2, 2018

Cause of severe genetic disease identified

Mutations in p63 protein lead to severe genetic disease AEC syndrome, which resembles Alzheimer's, Parkinson's or ALS more closely than other syndromes. The research lays groundwork for causal therapies by showing that protein aggregates underlie the disorder.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 2, 2018

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