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Science News Archive May 2018 - Page 33


Page 33 of 44

Reprogrammed stem cell-derived neurons survive long-term in pigs with spinal cord injuries

Researchers successfully grafted induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural precursor cells into the spinal cords of genetically identical adult pigs, eliminating the need for immunosuppression measures. The grafted cells survived long-term and displayed differentiated functionality without causing tumors.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 9, 2018

The slipperiness of ice explained

A team of researchers has discovered that the friction on ice is driven by the high mobility of water molecules at the surface, not by a thin layer of liquid water. The study found that as temperature increases, the mobility of these molecules also rises, resulting in lower friction.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Polymer Research·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateMay 9, 2018

The Lancet: Sexuality education, fertility services, and counselling for gender-based violence must be at the heart of global health agenda

A new Lancet Commission proposes a comprehensive package of interventions addressing neglected areas like infertility services, prevention, and counselling for gender-based violence. Meeting all needs for sexual and reproductive health services would require a minimum global investment of $54 billion annually.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 9, 2018

Visualization of molecular soccer balls

A research team led by the University of Tsukuba has successfully imaged single Li+@C60 molecules using scanning tunneling microscopy. The study provides valuable insights into the electronic properties of lithium-doped fullerenes, which can be used to optimize their performance in optoelectronic and switching devices.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalCarbon·DateMay 9, 2018

Integrative group examines the ethical fit of mindfulness in corporate America

A recent commentary examines the ethical fit of mindfulness practices in corporate America, highlighting potential conflicts between prioritizing shareholder return and mindfulness' philosophical commitment to non-harm and wholesome living. The authors argue that infiltrating corporate culture with mindfulness can raise the ethical bar...

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateMay 9, 2018

Hunting dogs may benefit from antioxidant boost in diet

Researchers found that hunting dogs fed a test diet with added antioxidants and nutrients performed similarly to those on a commercial diet, but showed improved indirect measures of oxidative stress. The study suggests that athletic dogs may benefit from supplementation of vitamin E and taurine to minimize oxidation.

Troubling stats for kids with intellectual disabilities

A new study found that over the past 40 years, most students with intellectual disabilities spend little or no time in general education classes, contradicting federal law which aims for inclusive education. The study suggests a plateau in progress toward less restrictive settings since the 1990s.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAmerican Journal on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities·DateMay 8, 2018

Switching off insatiable hunger

Researchers at Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin have developed a new drug to treat patients with genetic obesity caused by a leptin receptor defect. The treatment has shown significant weight loss in patients, and the study's findings provide insights into the fundamental signaling pathways regulating satiety.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 8, 2018

Regulation of the Hoxb gene cluster maintains blood-forming cells and inhibits leukemia

Researchers at Stowers Institute for Medical Research discovered a global regulatory element within the Hoxb cluster that controls its expression in blood-forming stem cells. This mechanism helps maintain normal hematopoiesis and prevents acute myeloid leukemia by regulating Hoxb cluster genes in a methylation-dependent manner.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMay 8, 2018

Patients and families who experience delirium report more distress than those who do not

Researchers found that delirium episodes cause distress for both patients and their families, with severity playing a role in emotional pain. The Delirium Burden questionnaire provides a reliable tool to measure this experience, potentially aiding future clinical trials in finding solutions.

New research unveils bird migration strategies

Researchers at Cornell University have combined weather radar and human observations to study bird migration patterns in North America. The study confirms key predictions of migration theory, including the role of body size, wind compensation, and behavioral shifts during migration.

SourceCornell University·JournalEcology Letters·DateMay 8, 2018

The far-reaching effects of ocean floors on the sea surface

Research from Hokkaido University reveals that low rises on the ocean floor regulate surface flows, creating sharp SST fronts with significant impacts on climate and marine resources. The study found that Rossby wave propagation is deflected by eddy-driven flows over bottom rises, leading to thickness jumps and jet formation.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 8, 2018

Theory for one type of superconductor solves puzzle in another

A 2017 theory by Rice University physicists Qimiao Si and Emilian Nica helps explain the behavior of an iron-based high-temperature superconductor, solving a long-standing puzzle. The theory proposes orbital-selective pairing as the key to understanding this phenomenon, revealing a new mechanism for these unusual materials.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 8, 2018

Voltage loss in cable bacteria

Using Raman spectroscopy, researchers have followed electrons through individual cable bacteria and found that voltage loss prevents efficient functioning beyond 3 cm into the sediment. The bacteria can distribute energy between cells using cytochromes, but lose electrical potential when electrons are unloaded to oxygen.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 8, 2018