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Science News Archive 2018 - Page 350


Page 350 of 473

Hepatitis C: A novel point-of-care assay

A novel point-of-care Hepatitis C assay has been developed to diagnose chronic cases in asymptomatic patients, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The assay detects HCV RNA reliably, faster than existing methods, and can be used at the point of care, reducing the need for centralized laboratories.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalGut·DateApr 10, 2018

Higher risk of infectious disease with both high and low cholesterol

Research from the University of Copenhagen found a U-shaped relationship between HDL cholesterol levels and risk of infectious diseases. Individuals with both very low and very high HDL cholesterol had high risks of hospitalization and death from infectious diseases, including gastroenteritis and pneumonia.

20-year-old mystery of malaria vaccine target solved

A team of researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute has discovered a human receptor protein on the surface of cells that malaria parasites interact with as they navigate through the body. This finding provides a key clue in understanding how to develop an effective malaria vaccine, potentially saving millions of lives.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 9, 2018

High efficiency solar power conversion allowed by a novel composite material

A composite thin film made of two different inorganic oxide materials significantly improves the performance of solar cells by optimizing its ability to absorb and convert sunlight into electricity. The material achieves a record power conversion efficiency of up to 4.2%, making it promising for future solar technologies.

Childhood obesity declines project identifies community-based obesity strategies that work

The Childhood Obesity Declines Project (COBD) has successfully implemented community-based strategies to combat childhood obesity, documenting their development and implementation. The project's findings provide valuable insights into effective programs and policies that can help address the rising prevalence of childhood obesity.

Study: Medicaid expansion has no negative effect on cardiovascular procedural outcomes

A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that Medicaid expansion in Michigan did not negatively impact patient outcomes for coronary artery disease procedures. The research used data from 7,558 CABG procedures and 45,183 PCI procedures performed at various hospitals across the state.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 9, 2018

Gene editing regulations threaten sustainability of global food animal supply

New gene editing regulations could hinder the use of CRISPR technology in food animals, potentially limiting disease resistance and beneficial traits. The FDA's proposal would impose drug-like regulatory scrutiny, but experts suggest alternative routes to approval that could accelerate benefits from conventional breeding.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalThe CRISPR Journal·DateApr 9, 2018

ALS, rare dementia share genetic link

Researchers have identified genetic links between ALS and frontotemporal dementia, suggesting that treatments for one may also work for the other. The study found common genetic variations associated with both disorders, including those near the MAPT gene and BNIP1.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateApr 9, 2018

Binge-eating mice reveal obesity clues

Mice fed on high-fat or chocolate-based diets exhibit abnormal feeding behaviors such as snacking and bingeing. The study reveals that extended access to hypercaloric diets impairs control of food seeking behavior, leading to negative effects on learning, motivation, and behavioral flexibility.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalAddiction Biology·DateApr 9, 2018

Novel hormone replacement therapy trial demonstrates improved memory function in adrenal patients

A new study published in PNAS demonstrates that a novel hormone replacement therapy can improve cognitive function and working memory capacity in patients with adrenal insufficiency. The therapy involves replicating the natural secretion patterns of cortisol, resulting in better outcomes compared to traditional constant infusion methods.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 9, 2018

An advance for precision medicine

Scientists at Oregon Health & Science University have developed a new method to quickly and efficiently recognize the subtypes of cells within the body. This technology, led by Andrew Adey, allows for profiling thousands of cells simultaneously, improving our understanding of disease at the molecular level.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateApr 9, 2018

Prominent academics, including Salk's Thomas Albright, call for more science in forensic science

Six scientists who served on the National Commission on Forensic Science are advocating for increased research and financial support of forensic science, as well as empirical testing requirements. They aim to reduce reliance on historical precedent and ensure the validity of forensic evidence to deliver justice.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 9, 2018