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Science News Archive February 2019 - Page 8


Page 8 of 40

Researchers identify possible role of Foxp1 protein in control of autoimmune diseases

The study reveals that Foxp1 is essential for the proper functioning of Treg cells, which play a crucial role in regulating immune responses. The findings suggest that targeting Foxp1 could lead to the development of therapies that selectively modulate Treg cell activity, offering new hope for treating autoimmune diseases and cancer.

Pink or brown?

New research finds humans struggle to accurately classify snail shells due to differences in colour perception. A study using spectrometry reveals distinct clusters for brown, pink, and yellow snails, providing a baseline measure for future studies on animal colour and genetics.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalHeredity·DateFeb 25, 2019

Cool adaptations to the cold

Researchers found that icefish have evolved transparent blood, increased energy production, and specialized proteins to protect against cold damage. These adaptations enable them to thrive in Antarctica's frigid waters.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateFeb 25, 2019

Nitrogen-fixing trees 'eat' rocks, play pivotal role in forest health

Red alder trees have been found to tap nutrients from bedrock through their symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. This process accelerates rock dissolution, releasing mineral nutrients that allow plants and trees to grow. The study highlights the importance of nitrogen-fixing trees in sustaining forest ecosystems.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 25, 2019

India's integrated child development program increases educational attainment

The study found that men aged 15-54 years and women aged 15-49 years exposed to the ICDS program during their first three years of life completed 0.1-0.3 more grades of schooling than those not exposed. This significant long-term benefit highlights the importance of early-life interventions in improving educational outcomes.

SourceCenter for Disease Dynamics, Economics & Policy·JournalEconomic Development and Cultural Change·DateFeb 25, 2019

Bacteria walk (a bit) like we do

Scientists have developed a microscopy method that directly observes bacterial filaments, revealing a new mechanism by which bacteria interact with surfaces. The study shows that type IV pili movements are coordinated through sequential control of pilus extension and retraction, enabling efficient movement across surfaces.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Microbiology·DateFeb 25, 2019

Brain cells involved in insomnia identified

Researchers have identified specific brain cell types, areas and biological processes linked to the genetic risk of insomnia, a major step towards understanding its mechanisms. The study found that over 100 genes contribute to insomnia, with some influencing the functionality of axons and specific cell types in the frontal cortex.

SourceVrije Universiteit Amsterdam·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 25, 2019

Live long and prosper: Mongooses enjoy lifelong benefits of 'silver spoon effect'

A new study shows that banded mongoose pups who receive consistent care in their first three months of life have a life-long advantage, including increased fitness and reproductive success. This 'silver spoon effect' is particularly beneficial for female pups, with more care leading to higher reproductive success.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateFeb 25, 2019

Ancient rocks provide clues to Earth's early history

Researchers have discovered evidence of significant ocean oxygenation before the Great Oxidation Event (GOE), which occurred around 2.5 billion years ago. This finding challenges previous understanding of oxygen accumulation, suggesting it may have extended over large regions of the ocean and even reached the sea floor.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 25, 2019

Mothers with children taken into out-of-home care at risk of poor prenatal care in next pregnancies

A Canadian study found that mothers whose first child was taken into out-of-home care were more likely to have inadequate or no prenatal care during subsequent pregnancies. These women are also more likely to face barriers such as substance use disorders and poverty, highlighting the need for accessible and nonjudgmental prenatal care.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 25, 2019