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Science News for September 28, 2018


Model System Researchers identify factors linked to mortality after traumatic brain injury

Researchers analyzed data from the TBI Model System National Data and Statistical Center to identify physical, cognitive, and psychosocial characteristics associated with mortality in chronic TBI survivors. Independence in mobility and community participation were found to be important factors for long-term survival in this population.

SourceKessler Foundation·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateSep 28, 2018

How some algae may survive climate change

A Rutgers-led study reveals how green algae adapted to tolerate hostile conditions by stealing genes from bacteria, providing clues for engineering more resilient algae. The findings suggest that these hardy species can survive climate change and offer potential solutions for biofuel production and other applications.

SourceRutgers University·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateSep 28, 2018

New, highly stable catalyst may help turn water into fuel

Researchers from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign have developed a new, porous electrocatalyst that can split water molecules at a higher rate than current industry standards. The material, made from a mixture of metal compounds and perchloric acid, has shown improved stability in acidic environments.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 28, 2018

Child Mind Institute study: Wearables could inform selective mutism research, diagnosis, treatment

A new study by Child Mind Institute researchers found that specially-designed wearables can quantify child vocalization features affected by SM, providing standardized measurements for diagnosis and treatment. The technology has the potential to advance SM research and aid clinicians in determining treatment efficacy.

SourceThe Child Mind Institute·JournalFrontiers in Psychiatry·DateSep 28, 2018

Search for groundwater in the ocean

Scientists from GEOMAR and University of Malta are collaborating on a three-year project to develop a best practice guide for detecting, characterizing, and monitoring offshore aquifers. The goal is to assess the sustainability of using these aquifers as an alternative source of freshwater in coastal regions.

Moffitt researchers use new technique to identify a novel drug combination for NSCLC

Moffitt researchers used a new technique to identify a previously unknown mechanism of midostaurin in lung cancer. Combining functional proteomics with deep network analysis led to the discovery of TBK1, PDPK1, and AURKA as protein targets for midostaurin, resulting in a more effective combination therapy.

SourceH. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateSep 28, 2018

A role for Scn5a missplicing in cardiac arrhythmias in myotonic dystrophy

A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association reveals that reproducing Scn5a missplicing in mice with myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) recapitulates cardiac function defects present in patients. The findings highlight a non-mutational mechanism contributing to arrhythmias and open possibilities for novel interventions.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateSep 28, 2018