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Science News Archive July 2016 - Page 16


Page 16 of 36

To catch a wireless thief

Researchers are developing a crowdsourced system that allows users to contribute in helping detect and locate unauthorized radio frequency use. The system uses software-defined radio technology and smartphone apps to monitor for suspicious activity, potentially aiding authorities in combating wireless theft.

Virgin olive oil and hypertension

Epidemiological studies support the consumption of virgin olive oil as an effective antihypertensive agent. The unique bioactive properties of oleic acid and minor constituents in virgin olive oil protect against hypertension by influencing vascular contractibility and heart/kidney cellular loss, leading to reduced blood pressure.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Vascular Pharmacology·DateJul 19, 2016

Risk of low blood sugar differs among similar diabetes drugs

A new systematic review found that gliclazide confers the lowest risk of hypoglycemia when added to metformin. This suggests prescribing a medication with a lower risk of low blood sugar may be a rational and affordable alternative for patients with type 2 diabetes.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateJul 19, 2016

Juicy news about cranberries

Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute and the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth discovered flavonols in cranberry juice significantly reduce E.coli adhesion, which can cause bacterial infections. The findings may lead to new antibiotic drug targets and alternative treatments for 'superbugs'.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalFood & Function·DateJul 19, 2016

Teaming up against sepsis

A multidisciplinary team of UCSB faculty members and clinicians will conduct biomedical research on sepsis, a severe response to infections, thanks to a $12.8 million NIH grant. The program aims to develop radically different approaches to treating sepsis, with the goal of reducing disability and death.

Ship engine emissions adversely affect macrophages

A recent study reveals that ship engine emissions adversely affect macrophages, a key component of the immune system. The toxic effects of these emissions on macrophages can lead to pro-inflammatory reactions and other biological processes, highlighting the need for efficient particle-reducing measures.

Electron spin control: Levitated nanodiamond is research gem

Purdue University researchers have successfully controlled the electron spin of a levitated nanodiamond using lasers in a vacuum, enabling potential applications in quantum information processing, sensors, and fundamental physics studies. The technique could also be used to detect and measure gases, such as oxygen, with improved accuracy.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 19, 2016

Stem cells engineered to grow cartilage, fight inflammation

Researchers have developed a technique to program stem cells to grow new cartilage on a 3-D template shaped like the ball of a hip joint. The cartilage can release anti-inflammatory molecules to fend off arthritis. The discovery may provide an alternative to hip-replacement surgery, particularly in younger patients.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 18, 2016

The pains and strains of a continental breakup

Researchers from the University of Sydney and the University of Potsdam have uncovered a distinct two-phase separation process for continental breakup, involving gradual rifting and eventual rapid subsidence. The study highlights a phenomenon difficult to explain within conventional plate tectonics, shedding new light on the process.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature·DateJul 18, 2016

Weight gain studied for second-generation antipsychotics for autism spectrum disorders

A Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center study found that Zyprexa (olanzapine) is linked to the highest risk of weight gain, while Geodon (ziprasidone) and Seroquel (quetiapine) were not associated with an increase in body mass index. The study suggests balancing treatment risks and benefits for children and teens with ASD.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology·DateJul 18, 2016

'Jumping film' harnesses the power of humidity

Scientists create a film that curls up and straightens autonomously when exposed to tiny changes in humidity, using it to transform environmental fluctuations into mechanical energy. The film can jump high and repeatedly bend and straighten without deterioration.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 18, 2016

Scientists delve into 'black box' of DNA research

Researchers reveal that unusual DNA repeat elements on inactive X chromosomes are crucial for maintaining the three-dimensional structure of this female-specific genetic phenomenon. The study uses genome engineering techniques to demonstrate the importance of these repeats, opening a new era of genomics research.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 18, 2016

Gas sensors 'see' through soil to analyze microbial interactions

Researchers have created gas biosensors that enable real-time monitoring of microbial gene expression in soil samples, allowing for the study of horizontal gene transfer and its impact on environmental processes. The technique has the potential to improve crop growth through more efficient watering and fertilizer use.

SourceRice University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 18, 2016

Rise in avoidable diabetes hospital visits

Researchers at the University of Leicester found that hospital admissions for hypoglycemia have risen by 39% between 2005 and 2014, with almost 80,000 people admitted. The average cost per admission is estimated to be £1,000, with the total cost of treating severe episodes in the UK around £13 million.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateJul 18, 2016

Study: Fracking industry wells associated with increased risk of asthma attacks

A new study found that people with asthma living near larger or bigger fracking industry wells in Pennsylvania are 1.5-4 times more likely to experience asthma attacks. The researchers identified a significant increase in asthma attacks among patients living closer to these wells, particularly during the production phase.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJul 18, 2016