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Science News Archive 2018 - Page 382


Page 382 of 473

Potential RNA Markers of abnormal heart rhythms identified in circulating blood

A study published in Circulation Journal identified four microRNA molecules in the bloodstream that could predict the onset of atrial fibrillation. The researchers found that these microRNAs were significantly upregulated in the serum of patients with AF and diseased mice, suggesting their potential use as biomarkers for disease.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalCirculation Journal·DateMar 15, 2018

Reducing collateral damage

A new UC Santa Barbara-led study found that ending overfishing can promote population recoveries for many endangered species caught incidentally as bycatch. In about half the cases, overexploiting these mammals, turtles and birds occurs because we're also overexploiting the target species.

New model links yellow fever in Africa to climate, environment

Researchers developed a new model that quantifies yellow fever dynamics across Africa using seasonal climatic measures, confirming the risk varies throughout the year. The model accurately captured geographic and temporal heterogeneities in transmission and offers insights for early interventions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMar 15, 2018

Childhood aggression linked to deficits in executive function

Primary school children with lower executive function skills are more likely to show increased aggression in middle childhood, including physical and relational types. The study suggests that improving executive function could reduce aggression, and training programs may be effective in achieving this.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience·DateMar 15, 2018

Nanostructures created at UCLA could make gene therapies safer, faster & more affordable

Researchers at UCLA have created a new method for targeted gene delivery using 'nanospears,' which can enable safer, faster and more cost-effective gene therapies. The nanostructures are biodegradable and can be mass-produced inexpensively, delivering genetic information with minimal impact on cell viability and metabolism.

A brewer's tale of proteins and beer

Scientists used mass spectrometry to analyze proteins in beer at three stages of production, revealing over 200 unique proteins from barley and yeast. The study aims to understand how these proteins control beer's properties and potentially improve brewing techniques.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateMar 14, 2018

Large numbers of students skipping breakfast

A study from the University of Waterloo found that 39% of students in Alberta and Ontario eat breakfast fewer than three days a week, with 48.5% skipping breakfast nationwide. The study highlights the need for improved social awareness and economic support for breakfast programs to reach their full potential.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of School Health·DateMar 14, 2018

Researchers tap problematic e-waste surplus to recover high-quality polymers

A new study has developed a method to recover high-quality polymers from mixed-plastic electronics waste, providing an environmentally friendly solution for recycling. The process uses a solvent called NMP, which releases vapors only when heated above 180 degrees Celsius, and can be reused multiple times.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateMar 14, 2018

Study reveals vision's role in vowel perception

Researchers found that people closely watch lip movement and shape when perceiving speech, with subtle distinctions between vowel sounds suffering without these cues. The study's findings have implications for designing more intelligible avatars and improving communication devices for the hearing impaired.

Removing heavy metals from water

Researchers have developed a new method for removing heavy metals like lead and mercury from water using metal organic frameworks (MOFs). The MOF composite can quickly and selectively remove high amounts of toxic materials from real-world water samples, down to levels deemed drinkable by health organizations.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalACS Central Science·DateMar 14, 2018