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Science News Archive 2017 - Page 455


Page 455 of 461

Children are more apt to confess misdeeds if they think parents will react positively

A new study from the University of Michigan found that older kids are more likely to view confessing as right, while younger children connect positive emotions to lying and negative emotions to confession. Parents can foster open communication by listening without anger, making it critical for teens grappling with adult issues.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Experimental Child Psychology·DateJan 9, 2017

How on Earth does geotagging work?

Computing science researchers at the University of Alberta have developed a technique to automate geotagging for news articles and other online documents. The model integrates two competing hypotheses: inheritance and near-location, achieving high accuracy in matching named entities to geographical locations.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·DateJan 9, 2017

Mediterranean is the fountain of youth, study claims

Researchers found that chemicals extracted from prickly pear and brown seaweed improve cellular and animal models of neurodegenerative proteinopathies. The study suggests these substances may target pathways affected by multiple neurodegenerative conditions.

SourceUniversity of Malta·JournalNeuroscience Letters·DateJan 9, 2017

Delirium an insidious, deadly threat to nursing home residents

Delirium is an often-undiagnosed syndrome affecting nearly 18% of long-term care residents, characterized by disorganized thinking and attention deficits. Prevention strategies include avoiding non-essential surgery, maintaining hydration, and minimizing medication exposure.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateJan 9, 2017

Recognize sepsis as a separate cause of illness and death

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ malfunction caused by infection, associated with significant hospital deaths. Recognizing sepsis as a separate cause can lead to improved hygiene, nutrition, vaccination rates, and quality of life for those affected.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 9, 2017

Two years and multiple doctors often needed to diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome

A study revealed that it takes two years or more for one-third of women with PCOS to receive a diagnosis, highlighting the need for improved education and support. The authors call for international guidelines and resources to improve diagnosis experience and health outcomes for women with PCOS.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 9, 2017

Place matters in late diagnosis of colorectal cancer, study finds

A recent study led by Georgia State University researcher found that living in segregated communities can affect colorectal cancer diagnosis timing. Residents of highly segregated Asian communities are more likely to receive late diagnoses, while those in African American communities are less likely.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalAnnals of Epidemiology·DateJan 9, 2017

Brain impairments in premature infants may begin in the womb

Researchers found altered brain circuitry in premature infants as early as 24 weeks gestation, which may lead to neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and cerebral palsy. The study suggests that factors contributing to early birth may impact brain development in the womb.

SourceYale University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 9, 2017

For chemicals, mega is out and bio is in

Researchers argue that waste methane can be turned into valuable chemicals through biomanufacturing, which could meet industry's needs and reduce environmental impact. By operating at smaller scales, biomanufacturing facilities can be closer to feedstocks and point of need, facilitating faster innovation.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·DateJan 9, 2017

Brain cell powerhouses appear good treatment target for stroke, TBI recovery

Researchers observed that brain cell powerhouses, called mitochondria, can quickly become dysfunctional after injury like stroke or trauma. However, they often resume their normal shape once blood and oxygen are restored, suggesting a potential new avenue for improving recovery from such injuries.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateJan 9, 2017

WSU researchers discover unique microbial photosynthesis

Researchers at WSU have discovered a new type of cooperative photosynthesis that allows bacteria to transfer electrons, enabling anaerobic photosynthesis. This process has significant implications for engineering microbial communities for waste treatment and bioenergy production.

SourceWashington State University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 9, 2017

Hidden seeds reveal Canary Islands history

Researchers from Linköping University and the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria analyzed prehistoric seeds to discover that barley was one of the main crops on the island of Gran Canaria over 1,000 years ago. The study suggests that the Canary Islands were colonized by tribes from northern Morocco nearly 2,000 years ago.

SourceLinköping University·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateJan 9, 2017

Bilingualism may save brain resources as you age

Research finds bilingual brains are more efficient, recruiting fewer regions and specialized areas to process information. Bilinguals show improved focus and interference control, benefiting daily life and potentially staving off signs of aging.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Neurolinguistics·DateJan 9, 2017

Friend or foe? Each creates national unity, a mix creates divisions, study shows

A new study published in PNAS reveals that peace brings people together in Scandinavian countries, while groups band together against other groups for a united cause in conflict-ridden war zones. In countries with a mix of indigenous and immigrant populations, intergroup relations are more challenging, leading to ambivalent stereotypes...

SourcePrinceton School of Public and International Affairs·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 9, 2017

Psychology essential to achieving goals of patient-centered medical homes

The American Psychological Association emphasizes the importance of psychologists in patient-centered medical homes, highlighting their role in improving health outcomes, decreasing costs, and enhancing patient experience. Behavioral health problems are prevalent among medical patients, compounding care delivery and effectiveness.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateJan 9, 2017

Decision pathway issued for patients with irregular heartbeat on anticoagulants

The American College of Cardiology has published a new document to manage patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation who need surgery. The guideline provides guidance on temporarily stopping anticoagulation medications, choosing alternative treatments, and restarting blood thinners after surgery.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 9, 2017

Crystallization method offers new option for carbon capture from ambient air

Scientists at ORNL have developed a novel crystallization method to capture carbon dioxide directly from ambient air. The method uses a guanidine sorbent that can be heated at relatively low temperatures to release the gas, reducing energy consumption and emissions.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 9, 2017

Genitourinary injuries challenge returning US servicemen

Research found that nearly 1,400 US servicemen sustained genitourinary (GU) injuries during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. The majority of patients suffered severe testicular and/or penile injuries, often part of polytraumatic injuries. Novel treatments are needed to address long-term sexual and reproductive health concerns.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateJan 9, 2017

Parents' physical activity associated with preschooler activity in underserved populations

Researchers found that increasing parental physical activity and reducing sedentary behavior correlates with increased physical activity behaviors in children. The study used movement monitors to objectively measure physical activity and found a significant association between parent and child behavior.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJan 9, 2017

'Weekend warriors' have lower risk of death from cancer, cardiovascular disease

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that men and women who engage in physical activity on just one or two occasions per week have a lower risk of death from all causes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. The 'weekend warriors' spent an average of 300 minutes per week doing moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 9, 2017

Pre-pregnancy progesterone helps women with recurrent pregnancy loss

A new study suggests that natural progesterone supplementation can increase pregnancy success in women with a history of recurrent pregnancy loss. The research found that over two-thirds of pregnancies were successful in women who received progesterone, compared to barely half in those who did not.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateJan 9, 2017

New findings detail structure of immature Zika virus

The study reveals differences in protein arrangement between immature Zika and other flaviviruses, shedding light on the virus's role in infection and disease. Understanding the structure of the immature form could help develop effective antiviral treatments and vaccines for diseases like microcephaly.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJan 9, 2017

An ecological invasion mimics a drunken walk

A new mathematical model describes ecological invasions as a random walk, categorizing randomness into spatial, demographic, and temporal factors. The model replicates key properties observed in computer simulations, resolving an ongoing argument between ecologists and mathematicians.

SourcePenn State·JournalTheoretical Population Biology·DateJan 9, 2017

Transfusions of 'old' blood may harm some patients

Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center found that transfusing older blood (over 5 weeks) can lead to excessive iron release, potentially harming patients. The study suggests reducing the maximum storage limit of red blood cells from 6 weeks to 5 weeks.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 9, 2017

President Obama believes US clean energy trend 'irreversible'

President Obama expresses confidence in a clean energy economy driven by economic growth and cost savings. He cites evidence of reduced emissions and carbon dioxide drops alongside businesses profiting from renewable energy investments.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJan 9, 2017

Model sheds light on inhibitory neurons' computational role

A new computational model reveals a winner-take-all operation is enabled by a configuration of inhibitory neurons. The model, developed by MIT researchers, uses theoretical computer science to prove that a specific arrangement of inhibitory neurons is necessary for the operation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJan 9, 2017

The fly reveals a new signal involved in limb growth

Researchers at IRB Barcelona identify a fundamental role of JAK/STAT signalling pathway in regulating limb development and growth. The study reveals three key functions of JAK/STAT in specifying wing formation and growth, with implications for understanding human congenital diseases.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 9, 2017

Study: Obamacare benefitted Latinos, but persistent disparities remain

A new study found that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) improved health care access and utilization among Latinos, but persistent disparities persist. The study suggests expanding the law to undocumented immigrants could help combat these disparities.

SourceDrexel University·JournalThe Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine·DateJan 9, 2017

NIH to release findings on impact of parent physical activity, sedentary behavior on their preschool

A new NIH-funded study found that in underserved populations, parents' physical activity levels directly correlate with their preschoolers' activity levels. The research suggests interventions could focus on helping parents model an active lifestyle for their children to combat obesity. Low-income and ethnic minority families are dispr...

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJan 9, 2017

New model predicts when people are willing to try new things

Scientists at UCL and dunnhumby developed a model to predict when people will try new products, analyzing purchase data from over 280,000 shoppers. The study found that shopping behavior is consistent across product categories, with individuals having individual 'exploration personalities' when they shop.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateJan 9, 2017

Why high-dose vitamin C kills cancer cells

Research at the University of Iowa shows that high-dose vitamin C selectively kills cancer cells by generating hydrogen peroxide, a reactive oxygen species. Cancer cells with low catalase activity are more susceptible to damage and death when exposed to high amounts of vitamin C.

SourceUniversity of Iowa Health Care·JournalRedox Biology·DateJan 9, 2017

Do exercise 'weekend warriors' lower their risks of death?

A study found that adults who performed the recommended amount of weekly physical activity in one or two sessions had lower risks for death from all causes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. The risk reductions were similar among weekend warriors and insufficiently active adults.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJan 9, 2017

Secret new weapon of insect-transmitted viruses exposed

Researchers at UC Riverside have identified a novel strategy for controlling viral diseases by targeting the interaction between a viral effector protein and a host hormone. The study found that the cucumber mosaic virus manipulates plants to release odors attractive to aphids, which transmit the virus.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalCell Research·DateJan 9, 2017

Can big data yield big ideas? Blend novel and familiar, new study finds

A new study from Columbia Business School sheds light on the secret sauce to developing creative ideas, finding that a balance between novelty and familiarity makes an idea more creative. The researchers developed a tool that analyzes word combinations in real-time and recommends words to improve ideas.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalMarketing Science·DateJan 9, 2017

Study identifies barriers to sexual health among male teens and young men

A Johns Hopkins Medicine study found that social ecology influences on personal experiences and interactions with family, peers, and healthcare providers hinder young men's use of sexual and reproductive health care. Long wait times, costs, and concerns about privacy also deter seeking care.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateJan 9, 2017

Epigenetic changes promote development of fatty liver in mouse and man

A study published in Diabetes journal found epigenetic changes in the DPP4 gene are associated with fatty liver development in both mice and humans. These changes, detected at six weeks of age, lead to increased enzyme production and correlate with fat content in the liver.

SourceDeutsches Zentrum fuer Diabetesforschung DZD·JournalDiabetes·DateJan 9, 2017

Hydropower in China impacts the flow of the Mekong River

The study reveals that Chinese hydropower operations have significantly altered the Mekong River's dry and wet season flows, affecting its ecological productivity. The changes in river flow have been particularly pronounced since 2014, with the Nuozhadu dam project having the largest impact on downstream Cambodia.

SourceAalto University·JournalJournal of Hydrology·DateJan 9, 2017

Nonsurgical and surgical treatments provide successful outcomes for an Achilles tear

A new review found functional rehabilitation and minimally invasive surgery to be effective treatment options for Achilles tendon tears, especially in recreational athletes. Surgical repair may be optimal for high-performance athletes, offering improved strength and power.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateJan 9, 2017

Older adults with arthritis need just 45 minutes of activity per week

A study found that performing even a third of the recommended activity is beneficial for older adults with arthritis. Participants who achieved a minimum of 45 minutes of moderate activity, such as brisk walking, per week were 80% more likely to improve or sustain high function over two years.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateJan 9, 2017

New framework could help online addicts reduce their usage

A new model developed by researchers at Binghamton University uses cognitive dissonance to help individuals recognize their online addiction and reduce its effects. Increasing users' awareness of the consequences of their behavior can create discomfort, motivating them to exert self-control.

SourceBinghamton University·DateJan 9, 2017