Mallotus furetianus! Tropical plant found in China fights fat in tests

Researchers have discovered the fat-busting properties of a plant native to Hainan Island in China during studies with mice. The findings might shine light on a path to combating obesity and fatty liver disease in humans.

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New pill targets “undruggable” protein to selectively kill cancer cells

Researchers have developed a drug that targets a protein essential for the growth and survival of cancer cells. The pill was found to be effective in preclinical studies and is now the subject of human clinical trials.

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Get ready for the age of the superconductor (maybe)

Want a flying skateboard? Your own personal home fusion reactor? A wearable MRI scanner you can buy online? If a room-temperature, ambient-pressure superconducting material really has been found, that is just the tip of the technological iceberg.

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Scientists give nature a nudge, training native species hunt invaders

In a twist on using animals as biological control, a method that in the past has often had disastrous outcomes for native wildlife, scientists have successfully trained native bush rats to actively seek out a new food source they’ve never seen before.

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AI-supported mammography screening saves time & detects more cancer

A new study found that a single radiologist screening mammograms picked up more incidents of breast cancer when supported by AI. The researchers say an AI-supported approach would be a safe alternative to having two radiologists read the scans.

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Pecans pack a punch in fighting obesity, diabetes and inflammation

A case is being made for pecans to be given ‘superfood’ status, as scientists make a surprise discovery of new widespread health benefits, including the nut's ability to combat the ill effects of consuming a high-fat diet. Slice that pie up, stat.

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Bizarre new high-strength glue can stick and unstick on command

An intriguing new glue can basically be switched on and off on demand. The adhesive sticks together when hit with one wavelength of light, and breaks apart with another, allowing it to be removed and reused easily – potentially, even underwater.

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Virgin birth at Cambridge thanks to genetically modified fruit flies

By decoding a genetic process responsible for asexual reproduction, researchers induced virgin births for the first time in a normally sexual fruit fly species. It was then discovered that the trait was passed down to all of the flies' daughters.

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Cheap proton batteries compete with lithium on energy density

RMIT engineers say they've tripled the energy density of cheap, rechargeable, recyclable proton flow batteries, which can now challenge commercially available lithium-ion batteries for capacity with a specific energy density of 245 Wh/kg.

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Solid-state system enables fridge-free storage of biological materials

Researchers have developed a groundbreaking method of storing and handling valuable biological materials that removes the limitations of refrigerated storage. The novel method has potential applications in healthcare and scientific research.

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