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Newly synthesized fungal compound can switch on a self-destruct button for cancer

Scientists from Tokyo University of Science successfully synthesized a new compound that can reactivate the self-destruct gene in cancer cells, offering a potential new treatment option for patients with colorectal cancer. The team's breakthrough could lead to improved outcomes and quality of life for patients with this devastating dis...

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalEuropean Journal of Organic Chemistry·DateJun 10, 2020

Weird science

A new study found that primary school students' perceptions of science and scientists are influenced by media stereotypes, with many feeling that a career in science is too difficult or high-pressure. Despite this, most students do not see gender as a barrier to becoming a scientist, showing progress in normalizing women in STEM.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalInternational Journal of Inclusive Education·DateJun 8, 2020

National online education platforms could make STEM degrees more affordable, Russia-based study shows

A Russia-based study found that national online education platforms can significantly lower instruction costs for STEM courses, allowing resource-constrained universities to enroll more students. The study also discovered that blended instruction formats offer the greatest cost savings of 19.2% for one course and 15.4% for another.

'Sniff-cam' to detect disease

Scientists have developed a highly sensitive 'sniff-cam' that can detect low levels of disease biomarkers in breath, including diabetes, lung cancer, and Parkinson's disease. The device uses an ultraviolet ring light, filters, and a camera to measure volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the breath.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJul 31, 2019

Do babies like yawning? Evidence from brain activity

A new study found that 5- to 8-month-old babies exhibit face-specific brain activity in response to yawning, suggesting a neural basis for their preference. The research used functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to measure brain activity while babies viewed yawning and mouth movement.

SourceChuo University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 27, 2019

Student teams use O.R. and analytics to help GM introduce new autonomous vehicles to fleet

In the INFORMS O.R. & Analytics Student Team Competition, student teams from around the world used operations research (OR) and analytics to optimize autonomous vehicle delivery processes for General Motors. The winning team from Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology minimized total costs while satisfying all constraints.

What Americans know about science

A survey of 4,464 adults found that Americans with higher education levels score higher on science knowledge. Whites outperform Hispanics and blacks on the science knowledge scale, while men generally outscore women. Republicans and Democrats hold similar levels of science knowledge.

Developed self-controlling 'smart' fuel cell electrode material

A team of researchers led by Professor Kang Taek Lee developed a new electrode material that uses nickel to improve the oxidation reaction efficiency of hydrogen. The material exhibits high-performance and high-durability due to the controlled exsolution of nano metal catalysts, which helps stabilize the fuel cell's performance.

Menstrual hygiene needs unmet for low-income women

A study by Saint Louis University's College for Public Health and Social Justice found that nearly two-thirds of low-income women cannot afford menstrual hygiene supplies like pads or tampons, with 46% unable to buy both food and period-related products. The researchers advocate for broader education and policy shifts surrounding menst...

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateJan 11, 2019

Three genes essential for cells to tell time

A recent study by University of Tokyo scientists has identified the Ask genes as crucial for regulating circadian rhythms and responding to cellular stress. The research found that cells lacking these genes are impaired in their ability to adapt to daily changes in environmental conditions, leading to disruptions in sleep-wake cycles.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 19, 2018

How to keep students in science

The SEA-PHAGES program has been shown to significantly impact students' attitudes towards science, leading to increased persistence and confidence among underrepresented groups. By providing authentic research experiences, the program has been found to be more effective in developing key traits that influence students' intent to persis...

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 2017

Mulling over the aromas of wine

A new detector for acetaldehyde in wine has been developed, offering a more practical and accurate method for winemakers to monitor this critical ingredient. The device, tested on nine different wines, produced results comparable to traditional methods but with simpler operation and real-time output.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sensors·DateJul 12, 2017

GM foods: Why presenting 'just the facts' won't work

A new study from the University of Adelaide found that women's attitudes towards genetically modified (GM) foods are influenced by multiple factors, including science background and values. Women with scientific backgrounds used evidence to support their stance, but others saw 'unknown' risks, leading to a lack of trust in science.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNew Genetics and Society·DateFeb 15, 2017