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Science News Archive February 2018 - Page 4


Page 4 of 36

Receptors key to strong memories

Researchers at UC Davis identified SynDIG4 protein as a crucial regulator of synaptic plasticity, enabling the formation and consolidation of new memories. The discovery sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying memory formation and could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for cognitive disorders.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalCell Reports·DateFeb 27, 2018

Genetics researchers close in on schizophrenia

Researchers have discovered 50 new gene regions increasing schizophrenia risk, including genes previously associated with intellectual disability and autism. These findings shed light on the disorder's complex genetics, suggesting subtle genetic variants can contribute to its development.

SourceCardiff University·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 27, 2018

Jekyll and Hyde and seek

A signaling protein called Daple, normally a tumor suppressor, can be manipulated by growth factors to become a driver of malignant growth and metastasis in cancer cells. This discovery highlights the complexity of crosstalk between major signals that drive cancers.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Signaling·DateFeb 27, 2018

Osher Collaborative for Integrative Medicine begins new JACM column partnership

The Osher Collaborative for Integrative Medicine has launched a new quarterly column in JACM, discussing strategies to advance health justice through integrative medicine principles. The inaugural column highlights the need to address bias and discrimination in intrapersonal attitudes and behaviors.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateFeb 27, 2018

Teaching quantum physics to a computer

Researchers developed machine learning software that allows computers to learn the quantum state of complex systems based on experimental observations. This approach enables faster tomography for quantum states and has implications for testing quantum computers with many qubits.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 27, 2018

Saline use on the decline at Vanderbilt following landmark studies

Two landmark studies by Vanderbilt researchers show significant improvement in patient outcomes using balanced fluids instead of saline for intravenous therapy, leading to a decline in saline use at the hospital. The studies found a 1 percent lower incidence of serious kidney problems or death in patients receiving balanced fluids, res...

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 27, 2018

Why are some mushrooms 'magic?'

A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that psychedelic mushrooms developed psilocybin to interfere with insect neurotransmitters, lowering the chances of being eaten. This evolutionary explanation could guide medical science in finding novel treatments for neurological disorders.

SourceOhio State University·JournalEvolution Letters·DateFeb 27, 2018

A protein that self-replicates

Researchers at ETH Zurich have made a groundbreaking discovery that protein amyloids can self-replicate, challenging the long-held RNA hypothesis as the origin of life. The findings suggest that early life forms may have used amyloids as information carriers and catalytic units.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 27, 2018

New insights into treating a rare leukemia

A study published in Leukemia found that starting mixed phenotype acute leukemia (MPAL) treatment with a less-toxic regimen is linked to better remission rates and long-term survival. Patients treated initially with ALL therapy were three to five times more likely to achieve complete remission than those receiving AML therapy.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalLeukemia·DateFeb 27, 2018

Wind and solar power could meet four-fifths of US electricity demand, study finds

Scientists at UCI, Caltech, and Carnegie Institution for Science found that US can reliably meet 80% of electricity demand with solar and wind power generation. However, meeting 100% demand would require significant investment in energy storage and transmission capabilities to overcome seasonal and weather variabilities.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateFeb 27, 2018

International Spina Bifida experts shapes future research, shares insights for practical care

This special issue of the Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine presents significant contributions from the Third World Congress on Spina Bifida Research and Care, covering topics such as regenerative medicine, genetics, trauma care, and self-management. The goal is to improve healthcare for individuals with spina bifida, includ...

SourceIOS Press·JournalJournal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine·DateFeb 27, 2018