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Science News Archive 2018 - Page 257


Page 257 of 473

Girls with high level of vitamin D have stronger muscles

A new study has found that girls with high vitamin D levels have stronger muscles than those with low levels. The association was not found in boys, and researchers are unsure why girls benefit more from vitamin D. Vitamin D is an important source of muscle strength, but the exact mechanism is still unclear.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJun 14, 2018

Network theory links behavioral information flow with contained epidemic outbreaks

Researchers employed a concrete interplay model in quenched multiplex networks to study the connection between adaptive human behavior and epidemic spread. The model accurately describes actual epidemic spread in complex networks while characterizing interactions between transmission and human behaviors.

SourceSociety for Industrial and Applied Mathematics·JournalSIAM Journal on Applied Mathematics·DateJun 14, 2018

This is what a stretchy circuit looks like

Scientists in China develop a hybrid conductive material that can be bent and stretched at will, making it suitable for wearable electronics and implantable devices. The material, called metal-polymer conductor, is non-toxic and has broad applications for diagnosing and treating diseases.

SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·DateJun 14, 2018

Combining NSAIDs and TNFi may reduce radiographic progression in ankylosing spondylitis

A cohort study showed that adding non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors can slow radiographic progression in patients with ankylosing spondylitis. Celecoxib, a specific NSAID, was associated with the greatest reduction in radiographic progression.

SourceEuropean Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR)·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 14, 2018

Modern alchemists are making chemistry greener

Researchers at Princeton University have found a revolutionary approach using cobalt and methanol to produce an epilepsy drug, replacing toxic rhodium and dichloromethane. The new reaction is faster, cheaper, and more environmentally friendly, offering distinct advantages over traditional methods.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateJun 14, 2018

Novel in vitro approaches for toxicity testing of inhaled substances

Researchers have made significant progress in developing computational models, human tissue-based assays, and other advanced systems to assess the toxicity of inhaled materials without using animals. These novel approaches aim to improve safety and regulatory compliance in industries such as pharmaceuticals and personal care.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalApplied In Vitro Toxicology·DateJun 14, 2018

New simulation tool predicts how well HIV-prophylaxis will work

A new mathematical framework predicts the efficacy of pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medications, helping streamline the development of new treatments. The framework integrates molecular factors that affect drug efficacy, allowing researchers to evaluate clinical efficacy prior to clinical trials.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateJun 14, 2018

When emotional memories intrude, focusing on context could help, study finds

A study by psychologists at the University of Illinois found that focusing on contextual details of emotional memories can improve cognitive performance and reduce negative effects. By shifting focus away from emotion and toward context, individuals can redirect brain resources to tasks and process memories more deeply.

Researchers can count on improved proteomics method

Researchers at Princeton University have improved a proteomics method to accurately count proteins in cells under different circumstances. The new approach, TMTc+, uses a combination of cell sample preparation and computer algorithm changes to provide superior measurement accuracy and precision compared to existing methods.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJun 14, 2018

Who is to blame for marine litter?

A Europe-wide study found that over 95% of people reported seeing litter when visiting the coast, leading to higher concern and willingness to change behavior. The primary causes of marine litter were attributed to plastic use, human behavior, and single-use plastics.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateJun 14, 2018

Proteins as a 'shuttle service' for targeted administration of medication

Researchers at FAU have successfully developed proteins that function like a shuttle to release medication directly in the body where it's needed. This breakthrough could enable targeted and tissue-specific administration of medication in future, potentially lowering doses and reducing side effects.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 14, 2018