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Science News Archive August 2016 - Page 36


Page 36 of 38

Combat exposure may jeopardize the behavioral health of women in the military

A recent study found that combat exposure among Army enlisted women was associated with an increased likelihood of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and at-risk drinking after deployment. Women with combat exposure were 20 times more likely to screen positive for PTSD compared to those with no exposure.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Traumatic Stress·DateAug 2, 2016

Heritability of thoracic spine curvature

A study published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research found that heritability of thoracic spine curvature is significant, with a heritability score of 54%, suggesting genetic control. This discovery may inform prevention efforts for hyperkyphosis, a condition causing breathing, walking, and daily life difficulties.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateAug 2, 2016

Researchers image brain cells' reactions to concussive trauma

A Brown University study used a custom-built device to compress neurons in 3-D cell cultures and observed their reaction to traumatic brain injury. The findings suggest that there may be a window for therapeutic intervention aimed at minimizing further damage, with irreparable structural damage occurring after approximately six hours.

SourceBrown University·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 2, 2016

What can a sea-lion teach us about musicality?

Researchers found that a sea lion named Ronan can keep the beat better than any other non-human animal, suggesting that beat-keeping abilities may be more ancient and widespread than thought. The study used mathematical equations to analyze Ronan's brain activity while she moved to different rhythms.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Neuroscience·DateAug 2, 2016

More accurate prostate cancer prognosis

A new scheme improved prostate cancer prognosis by grouping men into 5 strata based on clinical measurements like PSA level, disease stage, and tumor grade. This method performed better in predicting cancer death compared to the current risk stratification system.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 2, 2016

Ultracompact photodetector

Researchers at KIT have created a novel type of photodetector that can transmit information at speeds of up to 40 gigabits per second, using surface plasmon polaritons to combine optics and electronics on a tiny space. The smallest photodetectors worldwide for optical data transmission can be used for integrated optical circuits.

Study shows cell-free DNA sequencing is more accurate for diagnosing myelodysplastic syndrome

A new study published in Genetic Testing and Molecular Biomarkers found that analyzing cell-free DNA using next-generation sequencing is more accurate than the current standard approach of Sanger sequencing. This method can detect genetic abnormalities responsible for myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) with greater sensitivity.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGenetic Testing and Molecular Biomarkers·DateAug 2, 2016

Many physicians still prescribe controversial drug combination

A significant number of patients on clopidogrel therapy are also prescribed proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) omeprazole or esomeprazole, increasing the risk of cardiovascular events. Despite regulatory warnings, many physicians have continued to prescribe this combination.

SourceWiley·JournalPharmacology Research & Perspectives·DateAug 2, 2016

Research targets number one killer of under-5s

Researchers at the University of Oxford have developed a machine learning tool to diagnose childhood pneumonia more accurately and cost-effectively. The tool uses data from basic equipment such as pulse oximeters, thermometers, and stethoscopes, achieving high sensitivity and specificity rates compared to existing guidelines.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateAug 2, 2016

The Lancet: Infections with the parasitic worm W bancrofti associated with increased risk of HIV infection, according to Tanzanian study

A Tanzanian study has found that people infected with the parasitic worm W bancrofti in areas where HIV is endemic are more likely to acquire HIV. The study, published in The Lancet, suggests that controlling lymphatic filariasis could prevent incident HIV infections among the 120 million people living with this chronic infection.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 2, 2016

The great evolutionary smoke out: An advantage for modern humans?

A team of Penn State researchers identified a genetic mutation in modern humans that increased their tolerance to toxic smoke and fire. This mutation, found only in humans, may have given ancient humans an edge over Neandertals, who were more susceptible to respiratory problems and cellular toxicity.

High schoolers with mental health issues more likely to use alcohol, tobacco, & marijuana

Research at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that high school students with psychiatric symptoms were more likely to use substances like alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana. The study highlights the link between mental health issues and substance use among teenagers in Brazil.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal on Addictions·DateAug 2, 2016

Brazil faces major challenges in liver transplantation

Brazil performs more liver transplant surgeries than Latin America and globally ranks third in absolute terms. However, the country's increasing population and inadequate donor organ supply lead to only 5-10 liver transplants per million population annually.

SourceWiley·JournalLiver Transplantation·DateAug 1, 2016

Study examines symptom spikes in kids after concussion

Symptom spikes, also called exacerbations, were found to be common in children after concussion, with about one-third experiencing them. The study suggests that returning to full activities too quickly increases the risk of a symptom spike, but these events may not be clinically significant.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 1, 2016

Racial disparity in breast reconstruction? African-American women more likely to undergo autologous reconstruction

Researchers found that African-American women were twice as likely to choose autologous breast reconstruction over implant-based reconstruction. The study of 2,500 women undergoing breast reconstruction suggests patient preferences may play a role in the disparity. Further research is needed to confirm findings and evaluate potential r...

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateAug 1, 2016

'Generic' biologic drugs appear comparable to brand-name counterparts

A new study suggests that generic biologic drugs are as safe and effective as their brand-name counterparts, offering a cheaper alternative for consumers and the healthcare system. The findings have significant implications for the pharmaceutical market, with wide adoption of biosimilars expected to save billions of dollars.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 1, 2016