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Science News Archive April 2019 - Page 37


Page 37 of 44

HZB contributions to special edition on ultrafast dynamics with X-ray methods

The Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB) has contributed to the special edition on ultrafast dynamics with X-ray methods, focusing on photochemistry and material science. Femtoslicing and BESSY VSR methods have been classified, providing a comprehensive overview of current advances in generating ultra-short X-ray pulses.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London·DateApr 4, 2019

Defining the responsibility to recontact research participants with new genetic findings

The American Society of Human Genetics has issued a position statement outlining the responsibility to recontact research participants with new genetic findings. The statement recommends that researchers make reasonable attempts to recontact participants if the reinterpretation is expected to affect medical management, but not strongly...

SourceAmerican Society of Human Genetics·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateApr 4, 2019

Photons trained for optical fiber obstacle course will deliver stronger cyber security

A new approach enables the smooth navigation of photons through complex optical fiber obstacle courses, preserving entanglement and correlation. This breakthrough boosts expectations for quantum key distribution (QKD) technology, which uses signals in particles of light to create encryption keys.

Life on Mars?

Researchers have discovered embedded organic material in a Martian meteorite, suggesting that life could have existed on the Red Planet. The study proposes the presence of active bacteria on Mars and may indicate that there was once life beyond Earth.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalOpen Astronomy·DateApr 4, 2019

New guidelines push for better controlled experiments with synthetic nucleic acids

Researchers proposed new guidelines to standardize experiments with synthetic nucleic acids, addressing current issues like inadequate controls and misleading data interpretation. The guidelines focus on practical advice for performing experiments, measuring gene expression, and selecting appropriate controls.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalNucleic Acid Therapeutics·DateApr 4, 2019

Stressed? Take a 20-minute nature pill

A study published in Frontiers found that taking a 20- to 30-minute nature experience significantly lowers cortisol levels. The research suggests a daily dose of 'nature pills' could be a simple and effective way to reduce stress.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateApr 4, 2019

Sea turtles struggle years after unexplained die-off

Researchers found elevated levels of heavy metals and signs of illness in green sea turtle populations affected by human activity. The study suggests a link between environmental toxins and poor health, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect these endangered species.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateApr 4, 2019

See and be seen

Artificial microswimmers with forward and long-range vision form stable groups by perceiving the number of neighbors within their field of view. This process allows for efficient movement, evasion of predators, and adaptation to environmental stimuli without requiring precise location information.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalScience·DateApr 4, 2019

Racial disparities persist in access to kidney transplants

Racial disparities in access to kidney transplants continue, with patients from underserved groups more likely to be listed as inactive and less likely to receive transplants than white patients. A new study analyzing data from 2014-2016 found significant inequities despite a system aimed at increasing access for vulnerable populations.

SourceYale University·JournalJAMA Surgery·DateApr 3, 2019

Order hidden in disorder

Scientists found that amorphous systems converge to hyperuniformity, a hidden order on large scales, as they optimize individual cells' geometrical properties. This discovery has implications for the development of novel materials, including photonic metamaterials and block copolymers.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 3, 2019

Dr. Roger E. Stevenson receives Rimoin Lifetime Achievement Award from ACMG Foundation

Dr. Roger E. Stevenson, a senior clinical and research geneticist at the Greenwood Genetic Center, has received the 2019 ACMG Foundation David L. Rimoin Lifetime Achievement Award. The award recognizes his vision in founding the center, groundbreaking research on X-linked intellectual disability, and leadership in establishing programs...

Racial bias associated with disparities in disciplinary action across US schools

A study by Princeton University researchers found that racial bias contributes to disciplinary disparities in US schools, with black students experiencing higher rates of suspension and expulsion. The study analyzed data from over 3,100 counties and found a correlation between county-level measures of racial bias and disciplinary action.

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 3, 2019

A soft spot for stem cells helps cornea healing

Researchers at Newcastle University develop a potential revolutionary way to treat eye injuries and prevent blindness by using an enzyme to soften the tissue hosting stem cells. This approach has important implications for developing new ways to heal corneal damage, which affects almost 500,000 people worldwide.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 3, 2019

Gorillas gather around and groom their dead

Researchers observed mountain gorillas gathering around the bodies of deceased group members, spending time in contact with their corpses, and even grooming them. These behaviors were surprisingly similar across different gorilla groups and suggest a complex understanding of death among these animals.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·DateApr 3, 2019