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Science News Archive 2019 - Page 443


Page 443 of 486

Microbial manufacturing

A team of Harvard researchers has unraveled the process by which bacteria manufacture streptozotocin, a key compound used to treat pancreatic cancer. The study reveals an iron-dependent enzyme with two domains that catalyze different steps in the production of nitrosamine compounds.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateFeb 6, 2019

Male Y chromosomes not 'genetic wastelands'

Researchers sequenced a large portion of the fruit fly Y chromosome, discovering duplicated sequences and gene conversion mechanisms that enable genes to survive on the often-misunderstood Y chromosome. This new understanding challenges traditional views of the Y chromosome as a 'genetic wasteland',

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalGenetics·DateFeb 6, 2019

Brain patterns indicative of consciousness, in unconscious individuals

Scientists have identified four distinct brain pattern profiles associated with conscious and unconscious states, shedding light on the neural dynamics underlying human consciousness. The findings hold potential for developing reliable biomarkers of consciousness and externally induced manipulations to restore awareness.

Electron-gun simulations explain the mechanisms of high-energy cosmic rays

Chinese physicists develop mathematical equations and computer simulations to model photodetachment of negative ions via photons, simulating cosmic rays' collisions with planets. The speed of a moving surface significantly affects the chances of photodetachment, with Chloride (Cl-) ions being less prone than hydrogen (H-) ions.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal D·DateFeb 6, 2019

Micromotors deliver oral vaccines

Researchers create micromotors coated with red blood cell membranes and titanium dioxide that target the mucus layer of the intestine, stimulating a broader immune response. The oral vaccines successfully delivered in mice, producing ten times more IgA antibodies against Staphylococcal α-toxin than static particles.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 6, 2019

Discovery may bolster chemotherapy potency while protecting the heart from side-effects

University of Alberta researchers have discovered a way to make chemotherapy more effective against cancer while blocking its harmful side effects on the heart. By stabilizing a specific metabolic protein, they were able to prevent heart damage and enhance tumor regression in preclinical mouse models.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2019

Study examines association between birth weight, risk of developing psychiatric disorders in adulthood

A Swedish study involving over 500,000 siblings found that lower birth weight was associated with a small but significant increased risk for several psychiatric disorders, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and depression. After controlling for family-related factors, the study fo...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateFeb 6, 2019

The interplay between relationships, stress, and sleep

A new study found that positive relationship experiences in early adulthood reduce stressful life events, leading to better sleep quality later in life. The research suggests relationships play a crucial role in reducing stress, which in turn affects health behaviors.

SourceWiley·JournalPersonal Relationships·DateFeb 6, 2019

Bees have brains for basic math: Study

Researchers found that bees can recognize colors as symbolic representations for basic math operations and use this information to solve problems. The study suggests that advanced numerical cognition may be found widely in nature among non-human animals.

SourceRMIT University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 6, 2019

Providers' concerns about behavior change don't justify withholding HIV PrEP

Providers' reluctance to prescribe PrEP stems from concerns about increased risk-taking behavior among users. However, research suggests that PrEP can facilitate healthy sexual behaviors and enhance overall well-being. The authors propose strategies to mitigate biases and promote patient-centered care for PrEP dissemination.

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2019

Gypsum as an agricultural product

Gypsum, recovered from coal-fired power plants, is a rich source of calcium and sulfur, promoting better root development and reducing aluminum toxicity. Its application also improves soil structure, reducing erosion and phosphorus movement, benefiting various crops like corn and alfalfa.