Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive June 2017 - Page 7


Page 7 of 40

The dust storm microbiome

Research at Weizmann Institute of Science finds dust storm microbiomes differ by region, with rising bacterial species during storms. The study identifies a 'signature' for each source of bacteria based on antibiotic resistance genes, revealing that local sources pose less threat than imported genes.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJun 27, 2017

Study shows biomarkers can predict which ER-positive breast cancer patients respond best to first-line therapy

Researchers discovered that combining palbociclib with autophagy inhibitors can significantly reduce side effects and improve treatment efficacy for ER+ breast cancer patients. The study found that Rb and cytoplasmic cyclin E biomarkers predict response to therapy, allowing for personalized treatment approaches.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 27, 2017

Acupuncture may not be effective in treating infertility

A randomized clinical trial involving 1,000 Chinese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) found that acupuncture did not increase live births when combined with clomiphene or placebo medication. The study suggests that acupuncture may not be an effective supplemental treatment for infertility in women with PCOS.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateJun 27, 2017

Lake harvests are likely more fruitful than we knew

A new study estimates that global inland fishery harvests may be as high as 12 million tons per year, far exceeding previous estimates. This could significantly contribute to global food security and economic stability, as well as provide valuable resources for recreation and tourism.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJun 27, 2017

Physician heal thyself: Simple coping strategies for pervasive physician burnout

Physician burnout rates are alarmingly high, affecting up to 75% of younger clinicians. Simple approaches like taking breaks, exercising, and practicing relaxation techniques can reduce stress and fatigue. The key is early diagnosis and intervention, with awareness of symptoms and the use of stress reduction techniques.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America·DateJun 26, 2017

UA researchers: Brains evolved to need exercise

Researchers propose adaptive capacity model to understand exercise-brain connection, suggesting physical activity impacts brain structure and function from evolutionary history as hunter-gatherers. Exercise may enhance cognitive abilities and prevent age-related decline or neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalTrends in Neurosciences·DateJun 26, 2017

Premature infants at greater risk of SIDS

Rutgers researchers found premature infants between 24-27 weeks have a three times higher risk of dying before first birthday due to SIDS and other sleep-related infant deaths. Safe sleep practices, such as putting infants on their back to sleep, can help compensate for this risk.

SourceRutgers University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 26, 2017

Ultrasound imaging of the brain and liver

Researchers have developed new noninvasive ultrasound techniques to image the brain and liver, overcoming limitations caused by bones in these areas. The DORT method uses a multi-element array to focus ultrasound waves through bones, while a lens-based transcranial focusing device has been patented for transskull imaging.

Cosmetic complaints climb but products still on market

A new Northwestern University study reveals that cosmetic complaints have more than doubled from 2015 to 2016, with hair care products being the biggest offender. The lack of regulatory scrutiny and poor reporting by consumers and manufacturers lead to significant under-reporting of adverse events, with only 200-400 reported annually

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 26, 2017

Gays and lesbians who feel supported are more certain about retirement prospects

A University of Waterloo study found that gay men and lesbians who feel socially supported are more certain about their retirement prospects. The research, which analyzed data from over 6,000 working Canadians aged 45 to 70, showed that those who felt isolated or marginalized were less secure in their retirement plans.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalCanadian Journal on Aging / La Revue canadienne du vieillissement·DateJun 26, 2017

Integrated medical records can reduce disparities between blacks and whites in HIV care

A streamlined method of tracking medical records reduced racial disparities in HIV care, with blacks and Latinos showing significant improvements in viral suppression rates. The study found that integrated medical records improved use of anti-retroviral therapy and reduced gaps between whites and minorities in HIV health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalJAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes·DateJun 26, 2017

Air pollution casts shadow over solar energy production

A new study estimates that air pollution and dust are cutting global solar energy production by more than 25% in certain parts of the world, with China, India, and the Arabian Peninsula being the hardest hit. The regions experiencing heavy losses are also those investing the most in solar energy installations.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJun 26, 2017