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Science News for October 10, 2017


Study shows epidurals don't slow labor

A new study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology has found that epidural analgesia does not affect the duration of the second stage of labor, contrary to long-held beliefs. The research compared catheter-infused epidural anesthetic with a saline placebo and found no significant difference in duration or other outcomes.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateOct 10, 2017

Seeing the next dimension of computer chips

Scientists at Osaka University used scanning tunneling microscopy to create images of atomically flat side-surfaces of 3D silicon crystals, a crucial step towards designing smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient computer chips. The achievement paves the way for innovation in semiconductor manufacturing.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJapanese Journal of Applied Physics·DateOct 10, 2017

Without a nudge, old prescribing habits die hard for clinicians

Researchers found that two psychological approaches, peer comparison and accountable justification, significantly reduced inappropriate antibiotic prescribing rates. However, when these interventions were removed after a year, some clinicians' bad habits returned, highlighting the need for long-term adoption of nudges to maintain bette...

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateOct 10, 2017

When anemones bleach, clownfish suffer

Researchers found that bleached anemones led to a drastic fall in viable eggs among clownfish (-73%) and increased cortisol levels. This study reveals the impact of climate change on coral reefs and the fish that depend on them.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

Quorn protein on par with animal sources

A new study by the University of Exeter suggests that Quorn protein may be as effective as animal-based proteins in building muscle. The research compared Mycoprotein, a fungi-based protein source found in Quorn foods, to milk protein and found equivalent bioavailability.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBritish Journal Of Nutrition·DateOct 10, 2017

Do male fish prefer them big and colorful?

In a study published in Springer's Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology, researchers found that male black-finned goodeid fish prefer females with larger bellies and more vibrant colors. These physical traits were associated with higher reproductive value and increased chances of offspring survival.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateOct 10, 2017

Protein restricts sap uptake by aphids

Researchers at Umea University have discovered a plant protein that limits aphid feeding behavior, resulting in reduced sap ingestion and fewer offspring on resistant plants. The protein is thought to occlude the narrow food canal of the aphid, providing a new avenue for developing more sustainable crop resistance.

SourceUmea University·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateOct 10, 2017

Machine learning translates 'hidden' information to reveal chemistry in action

Scientists have developed a new machine learning method that can analyze x-ray data to reveal the structures and environments of catalysts during reactions. This allows for real-time analysis and optimization of reaction conditions, potentially leading to improved catalyst performance and faster production of desired products.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateOct 10, 2017

Forget about it

Researchers develop a quantum perovskite material that exhibits adaptive response to repeated proton insertion and removal, resembling brain's desensitization. This property enables effective programming of the material like a computer.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

More than half of police killings not officially documented on US death certificates

A new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that official US death certificates failed to count over half of the people killed by police in 2015, with a greater proportion undercounted in lower-income counties and for deaths involving non-firearm means like Tasers. The study's findings highlight the need for better...

Mass. General team creates functional, stem-cell-derived small bowel segments

A team of researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital has successfully created functional small intestine segments using human induced pluripotent stem cells. The segments were able to absorb nutrients and transfer glucose and fatty acids into the bloodstream when transplanted into rats. This breakthrough could potentially provide a ...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

Study shows antibody-biogel partnership can be stronger defense than previously thought

Scientists have discovered that weak binding between antibodies and biological gels like mucus is more effective in trapping pathogens, making it a stronger first line of defense. This finding has the potential to revolutionize the treatment and prevention of various diseases by providing new targets for engineered antibodies.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

Genetic advance for male birth control

Researchers at Michigan State University have identified the PNLDC1 gene as a key player in regulating sperm production, providing a genetic foundation for male birth control. The study's findings suggest that silencing this gene can lead to infertility in mice, making it a promising approach for human male contraception.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

Solar flux: From bug to feature

Sandia scientists develop a system to convert surplus solar flux into additional electricity at tower CSP plants, increasing capacity by up to 10 MW and reducing costs. The concept involves cladding the tower with photovoltaic panels, generating over 10% of total capacity.

Growing human brain cells in the lab

Researchers have developed a new, simplified technique to produce homogeneous human brain cells in the lab, accelerating drug screening and disease study. This breakthrough allows for cost-effective production of large quantities of brain cells within weeks, enabling wider adoption in basic science and industry.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalStem Cell Reports·DateOct 10, 2017

Ibuprofen better choice over oral morphine for pain relief in children after minor surgery

A randomized controlled trial found ibuprofen to be a better choice for postoperative pain relief in children aged 5-17 after minor orthopedic surgery. The study showed that ibuprofen had fewer adverse effects compared to oral morphine, which was associated with significant side effects such as nausea and drowsiness.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 10, 2017

Probing exotic ices

Researchers analyzed how water molecules interact with one another in three types of ice, finding that interactions depend strongly on molecule orientation and ice structure. Insights from this analysis will help understand liquid water and its behavior surrounding biomolecules.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateOct 10, 2017

The Fitbits of food ingestion?

A multi-disciplinary team developed flexible sensors that can sense movement and ingestion in the stomach for at least two days. These devices can harvest energy from the gastrointestinal tract movement and potentially power novel ingestible electronic systems.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateOct 10, 2017

Pest resistance to biotech crops surging

A global assessment reveals that genetically engineered crops producing insect-killing proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis have led to a fivefold increase in pest resistance cases over the past decade. However, some pests remain suppressed due to factors such as recessive inheritance of resistance and abundant refuges.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateOct 10, 2017

Breath instead of a blood test

Scientists at ETH Zurich have developed a method to monitor lipolysis in real-time by analyzing exhaled acetone during exercise. The new breath test can detect when the body starts burning fat, allowing athletes to optimize their training regimen.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateOct 10, 2017

Little growth observed in India's methane emissions

A recent study by the University of Bristol found that India's methane emissions have shown little growth over the last few years, with accurate reporting by the country's authorities. The research used a combination of observations from the surface, an aircraft, and a satellite to quantify India's methane emissions.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

Breeding salt-tolerant plants

Researchers have discovered that quinoa plants can absorb and store salt in bladder cells, allowing them to thrive on saline soils. This unique adaptation enables the plant to recycle energy from sugar molecules to neutralize toxic salt.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalCell Reports·DateOct 10, 2017

Smartphone apps launched for atrial fibrillation patients and their healthcare providers

Atrial fibrillation patients can use My AF app to access condition information, treatment options, and lifestyle tips. The app also enables face-to-face consultations with healthcare professionals. Meanwhile, AF Manager app helps healthcare providers import patient data, suggest personalized treatment plans, and share notes with patients.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEP Europace·DateOct 10, 2017

Tenfold increase in childhood and adolescent obesity in 4 decades: New study by Imperial College

A new study by Imperial College London and the World Health Organization found that childhood and adolescent obesity rates increased tenfold over four decades, from less than 1% in 1975 to nearly 6% in girls and 8% in boys in 2016. The number of obese children and adolescents is expected to surpass those who are underweight by 2022. He...

SourceImperial College London·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 10, 2017

Antibiotics before low-risk operations do not seem to breed postop antibiotic resistance

A large-scale study found that patients who receive antibiotics before certain types of low-risk operations have the same risk for developing antibiotic-resistant infections as those who don't. The study analyzed data from over 22,000 patients and found no association between prophylactic antibiotic use and postoperative antibiotic res...

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateOct 10, 2017

The right women for the job

The participation of women in the labor force has nearly doubled since 1950, benefiting everyone, including men, with average wages increasing as a result. Women bring important skills and perspectives to businesses, making them more productive and competitive.

SourceUniversity of Akron·JournalJournal of Regional Science·DateOct 10, 2017

Better mini brains could help scientists identify treatments for Zika-related brain damage

Researchers developed improved mini brain organoids from stem cells, closely mimicking human brain structure. They found critical similarities between the organoids and real brain tissue and identified effective drugs to block Zika's entry into the brain, offering new avenues for studying neurological disorders

Giant bacteria make algae easy to stomach

A team of scientists has identified a specific group of giant bacteria, Epulopiscium, that dominate the intestines of Red Sea surgeonfish and enable them to digest different types of algae. The discovery sheds light on the basis of surgeonfish diversity and provides a valuable genetic resource for developing algal-based biofuels.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 10, 2017

Hibernating ribosomes help bacteria survive

Researchers have uncovered secrets of how bacteria turn off protein biosynthesis to conserve energy and survive under stressful conditions. Hibernating ribosomes, found in Gram-positive bacteria like Staph, help them survive by suppressing translation, making them a potential target for new antibiotics.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017

What can cystatin C test contribute to chronic kidney disease management?

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that using cystatin C with creatinine to estimate GFR for chronic kidney disease diagnosis resulted in increased healthcare costs without improved risk prediction. The test led to a higher number of patients being reclassified to more advanced CKD, requiring more frequent monitoring and referrals.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 10, 2017