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Science News Archive August 2019 - Page 7


Page 7 of 38

Better seizure control with ketogenic diet in infants with genetic epilepsy

A review of 10-year experience at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago found that ketogenic diet was safe and effective in treating drug-resistant epilepsy in infants under 3 years old. Nearly half of children with genetic causes of epilepsy experienced significant seizure reduction after three months on the diet.

How texture deceives the moving finger

A recent study published in PLOS Biology explores how texture affects the way we perceive speed when touching objects. The researchers found that finer textures produce more vibrations in the skin, leading to a greater perceived speed. This is because specific nerve fibers in the skin are highly sensitive to these vibrations.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 27, 2019

Crows consciously control their calls

A study published in PLOS Biology found that crows can deliberately control their calls, suggesting a high level of cognitive sophistication. The research used trained carrion crows to learn and respond to specific cues, revealing the birds' ability to exert control over their vocalizations.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 27, 2019

Stable home lives improve prospects for preemies

Research at Washington University School of Medicine found that stable home lives and nurturing mothers can significantly improve the psychiatric health of preterm children. The study revealed four distinct groups of preterm children, with those from healthier homes showing normal psychiatric outcomes.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateAug 26, 2019

Blue light for RNA control

Scientists at the Universities of Bayreuth and Bonn have found a way to regulate RNA molecule activity using blue light, enabling on/off control of gene expression. This breakthrough discovery is the basis for optoribogenetics, a new field of research.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateAug 26, 2019

How plants measure their carbon dioxide uptake

In a balancing act between drying out and starving in dry conditions, plants use an elaborate network of sensors to regulate their carbon dioxide uptake. The study reveals that guard cells have sensors for CO2 and ABA, allowing them to measure photosynthesis and water supply, and adjust the stomata accordingly.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Plants·DateAug 26, 2019

An innovative new diagnostic for Lyme disease

Researchers at Arizona State University describe an innovative diagnostic technique that pinpoints molecular signatures of Lyme disease with high accuracy. The method, using a multi-platform approach, uncovers six potential biomarkers for early identification of the disease.

SourceArizona State University·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·DateAug 26, 2019