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Science News for January 31, 2018


Cells rockin' in their DNA

A study by Kyoto University has found that certain 'mechanosensitive' genes are suppressed when exposed to audible sound. The effects vary depending on the cell type, with some cells showing significant suppression while others show little response.

SourceKyoto University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 31, 2018

Reconstructing an ancient lethal weapon

Researchers recreated prehistoric projectiles and points from ancient sites in Alaska to understand technological choices made by early humans. The study found that composite microblade points were more effective on smaller prey, while stone and bone points had strengths for larger game.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateJan 31, 2018

How can students with autism be supported through college?

The US expects 45% of emerging adults with ASD to enroll in a post-secondary institution, but completion rates are lower compared to general population and disability groups. College experiences for students with ASD cover topics such as bullying, parental insights, and evidence-based programs.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateJan 31, 2018

Columbia engineers develop flexible lithium battery for wearable electronics

Researchers at Columbia University have developed a flexible spine-like lithium-ion battery with high energy density, stable voltage, and excellent mechanical properties. The battery's design is inspired by the human spine and provides remarkable flexibility and durability, making it a promising candidate for wearable electronics.

Catheter ablation better than pharmacological atrial fibrillation therapies

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that radiofrequency catheter ablation significantly lowers hospitalization and mortality rates compared to conventional drug therapies for atrial fibrillation in patients with heart failure. Catheter ablation restored regular heart rhythm by isolating pulmonary veins an...

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 31, 2018

All in the family: Relatives of Zika virus may cause birth defects

Researchers found that relatives of Zika virus can damage developing fetuses in mice and replicate in human tissues, raising concerns about other emerging viruses causing birth defects. The study suggests that flavivirus infections might cause pregnancy complications more frequently than previously appreciated.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 31, 2018

Letting molecular robots swarm like birds

Researchers developed DNA-assisted molecular robots that autonomously swarm in response to chemical and physical signals. The swarm behavior resembles that of fish, ants, and birds, featuring complex structures, distinct divisions of labor, robustness, and flexibility.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2018

MD Anderson study evaluates need for biopsies during follow-up care in women with early breast cancer

A nationwide population-based study analyzed over 120,000 women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer, finding that only 14.7% required additional biopsies during follow-up care. The study's findings will help physicians counsel patients about breast cancer recurrence rates and the need for future biopsies.

Lab-on-a-chip for tracking single bacterial cells

Researchers used a novel lab-on-a-chip to study gene regulation in single E. coli bacteria under changing environmental conditions. The chip allows for the precise growth and behavior of individual bacteria to be tracked over several days, revealing new insights into bacterial adaptation strategies.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2018

Lone star ticks not guilty in spread of Lyme disease

A comprehensive review of 30 years' worth of research concludes that lone star ticks do not transmit the bacteria that cause Lyme disease, but can transmit other human illnesses such as ehrlichiosis and red meat allergy. The evidence, based on over 60 published articles, shows that lone star tick saliva is a barrier against Lyme bacteria.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateJan 31, 2018

Improving the sensitivity for ionic solutes analysis

Researchers from Kumamoto University developed a new electrodialytic ion transfer enrichment method to improve the sensitivity of analytical systems for various ionic solutes. This method enables fast and efficient detection in low-cost equipment, making it suitable for community health analysis in resource-limited areas.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalTalanta·DateJan 31, 2018

Smog-forming soils

Research found that fertilized soils in the Central Valley contribute up to 40 percent of California's NOx emissions. The study suggests potential solutions through improved fertilizer management and soil conservation techniques.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 31, 2018

Coastal water absorbing more carbon dioxide

Research by University of Delaware oceanographer Wei-Jun Cai and colleagues reveals that coastal water is taking up a larger portion of atmospheric carbon dioxide. The study's findings, published in Nature Communications, may have important implications for understanding the global carbon budget and predicting greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2018

Cancer patients: Web-based help improves quality of life

A new web-based stress management program has been shown to significantly improve the quality of life and reduce distress in newly diagnosed cancer patients. The online program, developed by researchers from the University of Basel, provides patients with information, exercises, and strategies to manage their condition.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 31, 2018

Rutgers engineers 3-D print shape-shifting smart gel

Researchers at Rutgers University have created a 4D-printed shape-shifting smart gel that can morph over time and temperatures change. The gel can provide structural rigidity in organs like the lungs and create new applications in soft robotics, biomedical devices, and scaffolds for cell growth.

SourceRutgers University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 31, 2018

New universe simulation prompts breakthrough discoveries in astrophysics

A new universe simulation model, IllustrisTNG, provides fresh insights into how black holes influence dark matter distribution, heavy element production, and magnetic field origins. The simulation reveals a high degree of realism in predicting galaxy clustering patterns and the influence of supermassive black holes on the cosmos.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJan 31, 2018

Stealth virus for cancer therapy

Researchers have created a stealth virus that effectively recognizes and infects tumor cells using adapter molecules. The virus is protected by a novel protein shield that prevents immune system elimination, opening up avenues for treating aggressive cancers.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2018