Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive September 2019 - Page 30


Page 30 of 43

Nobel Laureate, Tom Cech, Ph.D., suggests new way to target third most common oncogene, TERT

Researchers have identified a new way to target the third most common oncogene, TERT. The study reveals that TERT messenger RNA is held up in the nucleus, and keeping it trapped could be an effective strategy for treating cancer. This discovery offers a promising new approach in the fight against TERT over-activation.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 10, 2019

The secret strength of gnashing teeth

Gnashing teeth's secret strength lies in the microarchitecture of brittle materials, where adding small defects can increase glass strength 200 times over. Researchers developed two models to describe fracture propagation and contact mechanics, paving the way for stronger ceramics, biomedical implants, and building materials.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalMechanics of Materials·DateSep 10, 2019

'Asexual' Chagas parasite found to sexually reproduce

Scientists have discovered that the Trypanosoma cruzi parasite, responsible for Chagas disease, can reproduce sexually after analyzing its genomic code in unprecedented detail. The study reveals that some groups of parasites exhibit high levels of sexuality, while others remain abstinent.

SourceOhio University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 10, 2019

An overactive cerebellum causes issues across the brain

A recent study by Kyoto University found that acute cerebellar inflammation causes 'depression-like' behavior in rats, characterized by decreased motivation and sociability. The research team discovered that microglia activation led to increased neuronal firing, causing the cerebellum to become hyperexcited.

SourceKyoto University·JournalCell Reports·DateSep 10, 2019

Model of health

Researchers at Lehigh University have developed a novel approach to determine when patients with tibial fractures can bear weight. The study used low-dose computed tomography scans and finite element analysis software to create 3D mechanical structural models that identified the regions of bone and new bone, or callus.

SourceLehigh University·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateSep 10, 2019

Study shows how salamanders harness limb regeneration to buffer selves from climate change

Researchers at Clemson University discovered that salamanders use temperature rather than humidity to anticipate changes in their environment, and harness limb regeneration to minimize the impact of hot temperatures. This adaptation may have implications for other animals and plants, and could provide insights into regenerative medicine.

SourceClemson University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 10, 2019

Peripheral artery disease risk hinges on health factors and demographics, including race

A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association estimates that black men have a 30% lifetime risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD), while Hispanic men have a 22% risk. The researchers developed a risk calculator to identify high-risk patients who may benefit from PAD diagnostic screening.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateSep 10, 2019

Smithsonian scientists triple number of known electric eel species

Researchers at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History have discovered three distinct species of electric eels in the Amazon basin, showcasing their remarkable diversity and adaptability. The newly identified species can produce up to 860 Volts of electricity, significantly more than previously known species.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 10, 2019

Colorful microreactors utilize sunlight

Researchers have created a widely applicable and affordable photomicroreactor that utilizes luminescent solar concentrators to efficiently power photochemical reactions. This innovation enables the synthesis of various substances, including pharmaceuticals, using sunlight as a sustainable energy source.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 10, 2019

Research shows 80% drop in ICU bloodstream infections

A study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases found a significant reduction in UK ICU bloodstream infections over an 8-year period. The research used data from over 1 million patients admitted to 276 NHS adult ICUs, showing a 95% decline in MRSA infections and a 57% drop in E. coli infections.