Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2018 - Page 438


Page 438 of 473

All in the family: Relatives of Zika virus may cause birth defects

Researchers found that relatives of Zika virus can damage developing fetuses in mice and replicate in human tissues, raising concerns about other emerging viruses causing birth defects. The study suggests that flavivirus infections might cause pregnancy complications more frequently than previously appreciated.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 31, 2018

Letting molecular robots swarm like birds

Researchers developed DNA-assisted molecular robots that autonomously swarm in response to chemical and physical signals. The swarm behavior resembles that of fish, ants, and birds, featuring complex structures, distinct divisions of labor, robustness, and flexibility.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2018

MD Anderson study evaluates need for biopsies during follow-up care in women with early breast cancer

A nationwide population-based study analyzed over 120,000 women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer, finding that only 14.7% required additional biopsies during follow-up care. The study's findings will help physicians counsel patients about breast cancer recurrence rates and the need for future biopsies.

Lab-on-a-chip for tracking single bacterial cells

Researchers used a novel lab-on-a-chip to study gene regulation in single E. coli bacteria under changing environmental conditions. The chip allows for the precise growth and behavior of individual bacteria to be tracked over several days, revealing new insights into bacterial adaptation strategies.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2018

Lone star ticks not guilty in spread of Lyme disease

A comprehensive review of 30 years' worth of research concludes that lone star ticks do not transmit the bacteria that cause Lyme disease, but can transmit other human illnesses such as ehrlichiosis and red meat allergy. The evidence, based on over 60 published articles, shows that lone star tick saliva is a barrier against Lyme bacteria.

SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalJournal of Medical Entomology·DateJan 31, 2018

Improving the sensitivity for ionic solutes analysis

Researchers from Kumamoto University developed a new electrodialytic ion transfer enrichment method to improve the sensitivity of analytical systems for various ionic solutes. This method enables fast and efficient detection in low-cost equipment, making it suitable for community health analysis in resource-limited areas.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalTalanta·DateJan 31, 2018

Smog-forming soils

Research found that fertilized soils in the Central Valley contribute up to 40 percent of California's NOx emissions. The study suggests potential solutions through improved fertilizer management and soil conservation techniques.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 31, 2018

Coastal water absorbing more carbon dioxide

Research by University of Delaware oceanographer Wei-Jun Cai and colleagues reveals that coastal water is taking up a larger portion of atmospheric carbon dioxide. The study's findings, published in Nature Communications, may have important implications for understanding the global carbon budget and predicting greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 31, 2018

Cancer patients: Web-based help improves quality of life

A new web-based stress management program has been shown to significantly improve the quality of life and reduce distress in newly diagnosed cancer patients. The online program, developed by researchers from the University of Basel, provides patients with information, exercises, and strategies to manage their condition.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 31, 2018