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Science News for June 20, 2017


Simple method measures how long bacteria can wait out antibiotics

A new method, MDK99, measures bacterial tolerance to antibiotics, allowing clinicians to effectively treat antimicrobial-tolerant strains. This metric can also estimate the duration of antibiotic treatments and provide insights into the prevalence of tolerance, ultimately reducing treatment failure and resistance.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateJun 20, 2017

Modeling Gulf War illness: Knowing the cause of brain dysfunction is key to finding a cure

Gulf War veterans experience long-term side effects of their service due to exposure to chemicals like pyridostigmine bromide, DEET, and permethrin. Animal models demonstrate how these chemicals cause brain dysfunction, inflammation, and oxidative stress, leading to symptoms such as cognitive decline, memory problems, and chronic fatigue.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalFrontiers in Molecular Neuroscience·DateJun 20, 2017

New metrology technique measures electric fields

American scientists have developed a new method to measure electric fields using atomic resonance-based technology, allowing for accurate and traceable measurements. This technique has improved spatial resolution and can measure frequencies up to one terahertz, relevant for future wireless mobile telecommunication systems.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJun 20, 2017

Study: While trust is inherited, distrust is not

A recent study led by the University of Arizona found that trust is significantly influenced by genetics, while distrust appears to be primarily socialized. The research suggests that trust and distrust are distinct qualities, with genetics playing a more significant role in shaping trust behaviors.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2017

Infections in early life associated with increased risk for celiac disease

Recurring gastrointestinal infections in early childhood significantly increase the risk of developing gluten intolerance, according to a new study. The research found a strong association between early respiratory tract infections and an elevated risk of celiac disease.

Increase in use of high-dose vitamin D supplements

The prevalence of daily supplemental vitamin D use above 1,000 IU increased from 0.3% in 1999-2000 to 18.2% in 2013-2014. Intake of 4,000 IU or more daily also rose, with 3.2% of participants using such supplements in 2013-2014. The trend was observed across most age groups, race/ethnicities, and sexes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJun 20, 2017

Plant reveals anti-Alzheimer's compounds

Japanese scientists have developed a method to isolate and identify active compounds in plant medicines, which accurately accounts for drug behavior in the body. They identified several active compounds from Drynaria Rhizome that improve memory and reduce disease characteristics in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Pharmacology·DateJun 20, 2017

The story of music is the story of humans

A recent Frontiers article explores the origins of music and its significance in human society. The study reveals that music is closely tied to human emotions, bonding, and social cohesion, suggesting that it may have played a crucial role in shaping human culture.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Sociology·DateJun 20, 2017

Watching cities grow

Researchers from TUM develop new algorithm to reconstruct 4D point clouds of cities from satellite images, enabling early detection of dangers like subsidence and collapse. The method improves precision on a fraction of the radar wavelength, allowing for monitoring of urban growth and development.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing·DateJun 20, 2017

African plant extract offers new hope for Alzheimer's

Researchers at The University of Nottingham have discovered that a plant extract from Carpolobia lutea may help protect brain chemical messengers in people with Alzheimer's disease. The study found the extract to be highly effective in preventing the breakdown of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter linked to memory and learning.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalPharmaceutical Biology·DateJun 20, 2017

Boyhood violence victims are more likely to commit similar acts on intimate partners

A study conducted by Case Western Reserve University found that 60% of male participants reported being both perpetrators and victims of intimate partner violence. The research highlights the need for behavioral programs that address unresolved trauma from childhood abuse, which can contribute to violent behavior in adulthood.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateJun 20, 2017

Screening for obesity in children and adolescents recommended

The USPSTF recommends screening for obesity in children and adolescents 6 years old and older, offering comprehensive behavioral interventions to promote weight improvements. This recommendation is based on moderate certainty, as screening can lead to small harms but also improve weight status with moderate net benefits.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJun 20, 2017

To work or not to work: Moms' well being rests on what she wants

Among well-educated mothers, those who pursued their desired lifestyle experienced overall positive adjustment, while those who were 'misaligned' faced considerable distress and unhappiness. Feeling emotionally supported, unconditional acceptance, and satisfying friendships are key to promoting life satisfaction and mitigating loneliness.

SourceArizona State University·JournalJournal of Family and Economic Issues·DateJun 20, 2017

No evidence of gender bias in philosophy

A recent study by Sean Allen-Hermanson found no significant evidence of gender bias against women in philosophy departments. Despite a male-dominated field, women secured tenure-track positions at rates comparable to men. Increasing diversity is crucial for the discipline.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 20, 2017

Students of all races feel safer in ethnically diverse middle schools, UCLA study says

Middle school students from diverse backgrounds report feeling safer and less lonely in ethnically diverse classrooms. Researchers found that students in diverse schools showed more tolerance and less prejudice towards peers of other ethnicities. The study highlights the benefits of diversity on personal and social well-being.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalChild Development·DateJun 20, 2017

Tennis cheats may be predicted by their moral standards

Researchers found a connection between certain moral values and the acceptance of cheating behavior in tennis matches. Players who prioritize ego and status over self-improvement tend to condone cheating. The study suggests that promoting personal success and achievement can help decrease the risk of antisocial behavior in sport.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 20, 2017

Older dads have 'geekier' sons

A new study suggests that children of older fathers are more intelligent and focused on their interests, with better educational and career prospects. The researchers found that 'geekier' children tend to perform better in school exams, particularly in STEM subjects.

SourceKing's College London·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateJun 20, 2017

Task Force presents new ranking of colorectal cancer screening tests

The task force ranked tests into three tiers according to the strength of the recommendation for average-risk people. Colonoscopy is highly sensitive for cancer and precancerous lesions, while fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) is non-invasive and lower-cost but must be repeated annually. The new guidelines also recommend starting scre...

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateJun 20, 2017

How a girl is raised can influence her adult sporting success

A new study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that female footballers raised with non-traditional values and role models exhibit greater fighting spirit and pleasure in the game, leading to improved performance. This suggests that upbringing plays a significant role in shaping the desire to succeed in sports.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJun 20, 2017

Bacterial superantigens turn our immune cells to the dark side

Researchers found that mucosa-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells can mount a rapid and robust inflammatory response to bacterial superantigens, contributing to severe organ damage or death. The overzealous response leads to exhaustion of MAIT cells, resulting in immunosuppression and increased susceptibility to secondary infections.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 20, 2017