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Science News Archive November 2018


Page 1 of 42

UA scientist identifies cellular gene signatures for heart muscle regeneration

Researchers at the University of Arizona have identified multiple subpopulations of cardiomyocytes expressing specific transcription factors, which could lead to better repair of heart muscle injuries. The study uses a systems-based approach encompassing single-cell transcriptomics, single-cell proteomics and CRISPR gene-editing.

SourceUniversity of Arizona Health Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 30, 2018

Towards a treatment for gluten intolerance

A new study has identified a specific peptide that directly binds to the ion-channel CFTR, impairing its function and triggering cellular stress and inflammation. This interaction can be inhibited by a potentiator of CFTR, which may offer protection against gluten-induced intestinal symptoms.

SourceEMBO·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateNov 30, 2018

The physics of extracting gas from shale formations

A new study reviews current knowledge on flow processes during shale gas extraction, outlining how pore distribution and geometry affect gas transport. The authors present a model that matches experimental evidence, revealing the impact of rock bottlenecks on gas production.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateNov 30, 2018

Light triggers gold in unexpected way

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a way to control the output of gold nanoparticles using circularly polarized light. By changing the handedness of the light input, they found they could change the intensity of the scattered light by up to 50%, opening up new possibilities for ultrasmall optical components and antennas.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 30, 2018

Study discovers over 6,000 antibiotic resistance genes in the bacteria that inhabit the human gut

A recent study has discovered over 6,000 antibiotic resistance genes in bacteria that inhabit the human gut, revealing a vast and previously unknown diversity of resistant genes. The researchers used a novel method to identify these genes by comparing their three-dimensional structures to proteins produced by gut bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Microbiology·DateNov 30, 2018

Falls are more likely when you've had a bad night sleep

A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that just one bad night's sleep can lead to a reduced ability to control posture and balance. This could be particularly concerning for older adults, who are already at increased risk of falls. The research used wearable sensors to monitor sleep and balance, and showed that fragmente...

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 30, 2018

US image abroad: It's the message not the messenger

A Dartmouth study finds that US policy messages have a greater impact on foreign public opinion than the person delivering the message. The research, published in Political Behavior, reveals that Japanese public opinion of the US depends largely on whether a policy message is cooperative or uncooperative.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalPolitical Behavior·DateNov 30, 2018

Force Push VR brings Jedi powers to life

Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a virtual reality technique called Force Push, enabling users to manipulate objects with subtle hand gestures. The interface responds to the speed and magnitude of hand movements, providing a more physical and intuitive experience than traditional hand controllers.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalFrontiers in ICT·DateNov 30, 2018