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Science News Archive October 2015 - Page 17


Page 17 of 38

Side stream emissions from 'heated tobacco' products similar to secondhand cigarette smoke

A new study published in the Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry found that 'heated tobacco' products, like iQOS, release chemical compounds into the air when activated, similar to secondhand cigarette smoke. The findings suggest these devices should be regulated similarly to regular cigarettes in indoor spaces.

SourceAspect Consulting·JournalJournal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry·DateOct 19, 2015

The missing 'recipe'

Researchers have developed a theoretical description of thermal conduction, accounting for both atomic and electronic behavior, allowing for accurate numerical simulations. This breakthrough enables scientists to study complex materials and processes, such as those found on planets, with unprecedented precision.

Early childhood stress affects brain's response to rewards

A Duke University study found that early childhood stress can lead to a reduced response to rewards in adulthood, which may contribute to an increased risk of depression and other mental health problems. The research used fMRI scans to examine brain activity in adults who were closely monitored from kindergarten onwards.

SourceDuke University·JournalSocial Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience·DateOct 19, 2015

The phage is a lonely hunter

Researchers at San Diego State University discovered that bacteriophages employ subdiffusive motion to find and kill bacteria in mucosal surfaces. This novel hunting strategy is more effective when bacterial concentrations are high, making it a unique approach among predators on Earth.

SourceSan Diego State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

Unveiling distribution of defects in proton conductors

Researchers at Tohoku University developed a new idea to improve proton mobility in rare-earth doped BaZrO3 perovskite-type proton conductors. By creating pairs of oxygen vacancies and rare-earth elements, the team found that this inhibits proton trapping, leading to higher proton concentration around Zr

SourceTohoku University·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateOct 19, 2015

Are cars nanotube factories on wheels?

Researchers detected carbon nanotubes in Parisian children's lung cells and exhaust pipes, suggesting widespread exposure to the pollutants. The findings prompt further investigation into the potential health effects of nanotubes, which are found naturally but also produced by human activities.

SourceRice University·JournalEBioMedicine·DateOct 19, 2015

How proteins age

Researchers at UCSB have discovered a mechanism by which secreted proteins age and turn over, shedding light on a crucial aspect of health and disease. The discovery identifies over 600 proteins with molecular signs of aging and turnover, including regulators of proteolysis, blood coagulation, and immunity.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

Invasive Staphylococcus aureus infections in hospitalized infants

Researchers found invasive methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) caused more infections and deaths in hospitalized infants than methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). The study suggests that measures to prevent MSSA infections should be included in addition to MRSA, alongside hand hygiene as a primary prevention strategy.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateOct 19, 2015

How proteins age

Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute have identified a mechanism by which secreted proteins age and turnover, shedding light on health and disease. The discovery highlights the importance of N-glycan remodeling and lectin recognition in regulating protein abundance.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

More rain leads to fewer trees in the African savanna

Researchers at Princeton University found that intense rainfall leads to a decrease in tree growth and an increase in grass growth on the African savanna. This is because trees struggle to utilize excess water, while grasses can absorb it quickly, giving them a competitive advantage.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 19, 2015

Gout risk high in patients with sleep apnea

A new study shows that patients with sleep apnea are at a higher risk of developing gout. The incidence rate of gout was found to be 60% higher among those with sleep apnea compared to similar-weight comparators.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·DateOct 19, 2015

How wind might impact birds' migration routes

A study using 21 years of global wind data found that following optimal routes reduces travel time by 26.5% and increases survival rates. This suggests migratory routes may be under strong natural selection, with potential evolutionary advantages.

SourceWiley·JournalEcology Letters·DateOct 19, 2015