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Science News for July 3, 2016


Endometrial scratch appears beneficial in couples trying to conceive

A Cochrane review suggests that endometrial scratching may be beneficial for couples trying to conceive naturally or with intrauterine insemination (IUI), increasing the chance of clinical pregnancy and live birth. The procedure involves a biopsy-like action on the uterine lining, which may create an environment more receptive to embry...

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·DateJul 3, 2016

Building a better bowtie

Researchers created bowtie-shaped silver nanoparticles to study quantum phenomena, enabling strong coupling between photons and single quantum systems. The ability to control this coupling could lead to the development of more powerful computing and encryption devices.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 3, 2016

Urban hedgehogs -- more at home in the city than you thought

Research reveals urban hedgehogs can survive with smaller nightly ranging areas and adjust activity levels to human disturbance. They show similar hibernation patterns to rural populations, highlighting the importance of access to undisturbed habitats for their entire hibernation season.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 3, 2016

New prebiotic identified in fermented Japanese vegetable

Researchers from Hiroshima University have identified a new prebiotic, derived from fermented burdock root, that improves colon health in rats by increasing beneficial bacteria. The enzyme, produced during fermentation, has a stronger effect on Bifidobacterium in the colon than previous varieties of prebiotics.

SourceHiroshima University·DateJul 3, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Children growing up in solo mother families are well adjusted and developing well

A study of 51 solo mother families and 52 heterosexual two-parent families found no significant difference in child adjustment. However, higher financial difficulties and parenting stress were associated with child adjustment problems. Children reported generally positive feelings about family life and enjoyed school.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·DateJul 3, 2016

No identity: 1 in 5 Aboriginal births unregistered in western Australia

New research reveals that nearly one in five Aboriginal children under 16 have unregistered births, sparking concerns about access to official identity and rights. The study found that socioeconomically disadvantaged and remote areas had higher rates of unregistered births.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalAustralian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health·DateJul 3, 2016

Unraveling the genes for sexual traits in stag beetles

Researchers built a gene expression database of a stag beetle species and identified key genes involved in sex determination and differentiation. The study found that the intersex gene plays a crucial role in determining female-specific traits, while the transformer-2 gene affects more than just sex-specific characteristics.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalBMC Genomics·DateJul 3, 2016