Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2018 - Page 346


Page 346 of 473

Theoreticians finally prove that 'curly arrows' tell the truth about chemical reactions

Researchers bridge the gap between organic and theoretical chemistry by proving the validity of 'curly arrows' in depicting chemical reactions. The study provides a new method to model electronic structure during chemical reactions, connecting traditional depictions with state-of-the-art quantum chemical calculations.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 12, 2018

Why alcohol, sugar lead to thirst

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center identify a hormone that stimulates thirst in response to nutrient stresses, challenging traditional views on hydration. The study's findings suggest that FGF21 works through a novel pathway to increase water intake, potentially limiting alcohol consumption and protecting against its effects.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalCell Metabolism·DateApr 12, 2018

The background hum of space could reveal hidden black holes

Researchers have developed a way to detect gravitational waves from faint black hole mergers, allowing them to study populations of black holes at vast distances. The new method is estimated to be one thousand times more sensitive than previous techniques, and will enable the detection of thousands of previously hidden black holes.

SourceMonash University·JournalPhysical Review X·DateApr 12, 2018

There's a better way to screen for cervical cancer

A new study suggests that high-quality cervical cancer screening can be effectively done using automated technology, which could improve coverage in underserved regions. The researchers developed a novel risk score algorithm based on computer-scanned liquid-based slide features to separate HPV-positive women for treatment.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 11, 2018

Faba fix for corn's nitrogen need

Researchers found that faba bean cover crops can add a significant amount of nitrogen to the soil, reducing the need for commercial fertilizer by up to half. The timing and management of faba bean residues also play a crucial role in maximizing the benefits of this practice.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateApr 11, 2018

Brain activity can predict success of depression treatment

Researchers at McLean Hospital have identified a method to predict depressed patients' treatment prognosis by analyzing brain activity in the rostral anterior cingulate cortex. The study showed that patients with higher activity before treatment are more likely to respond positively, allowing clinicians to tailor treatment approaches.

SourceMcLean Hospital·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateApr 11, 2018

Does age at menopause affect memory?

A study of over 1,300 women found that entering menopause at a later age was associated with better verbal memory skills. After adjusting for other factors, the researchers found a small but significant difference in memory scores, recalling an average of 0.09 additional words per year.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 11, 2018

It's not your fitness tracker -- it's you

A recent study published by the University of Southern California found that people from different countries have vastly different perceptions of their physical activity. The study, which tracked participants in the US, Netherlands, and England, revealed that Americans tend to overestimate their activity levels while Europeans underest...

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateApr 11, 2018

The dinosaur menu, as revealed by calcium

Researchers studied fossilized remains from Morocco and Niger to reconstruct the past's food chains, explaining how large predators coexisted. Calcium isotope analysis showed that carnivores shared resources by subtly hunting different prey types, such as herbivorous dinosaurs or fish.

SourceCNRS·DateApr 11, 2018