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Science News Archive 2018 - Page 449


Page 449 of 473

So much depends on a tree guard

Researchers at Columbia University found that tree guards can improve street trees' ability to absorb stormwater runoff. The study shows that protected pits absorbed water six times faster than unprotected ones, reducing the load on city sewers.

SourceColumbia University·JournalEcological Engineering·DateJan 23, 2018

Rethinking environmental legislation to include the conservation ideas of tomorrow

A new study by ZSL and Utah State University argues that rewilding is a crucial approach to address global biodiversity loss. The research calls for revised legislation to facilitate the inclusion of rewilding in conservation efforts, with a focus on monitoring progress and understanding social impacts.

Live tissue vs synthetic tissue training for critical procedures: No difference in performance

A study published in Academic Emergency Medicine found that training on synthetic and live tissue models did not result in a difference in performance for five critical procedures. The results suggest that further study is needed to determine the effectiveness of simulation training for emergency medicine and trauma teams.

SourceSociety for Academic Emergency Medicine·JournalAcademic Emergency Medicine·DateJan 23, 2018

Building a more flexible plastic

Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh's Swanson School of Engineering have developed a novel solution to prevent plastic waste. They propose using nano-engineering to create a recyclable material that can replace complex multi-layered packaging, mimicking nature's use of few molecular building blocks.

Energy drink use in teens has adverse effects

New research from Chapman University found that 40% of teens aged 13-19 reported an adverse effect while consuming energy drinks. The most common side effects included insomnia, jittery feelings, and heart palpitations. Additionally, some teens mix alcohol with energy drinks and use them for weight loss.

SourceChapman University·JournalTurkish Journal of Pediatric Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine·DateJan 23, 2018

Discovery of the 'pioneer' that opens the genome

Researchers at the University of Montreal have identified a key molecule, Pax7, which acts like a pioneer factor to open specific parts of the genome. This discovery provides insight into mechanisms of genome access and has significant implications for our understanding of cell diversification and disease prevention.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 23, 2018

Protecting piping plovers

A Michigan State University study reveals that the endangered piping plover population may decline over the next decade due to increasing predator pressure. The researchers developed an integrated population model coupled with a Bayesian population viability analysis to improve accuracy in forecasting population changes.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateJan 23, 2018

Prosecuting background check and straw purchase violations depends on state laws

A new study examined prosecutions in Pennsylvania and Maryland following changes in firearm transfer laws, finding increased prosecutions after tougher sentencing in Pennsylvania but decreased prosecutions in Maryland after a court decision redefined private firearm transfers. The study highlights the importance of proper implementatio...

Function of protein 'smallish' unraveled

The protein 'smallish' plays a crucial role in regulating cell polarity, essential for shape generation and coordinated cell changes. Researchers found that smallish helps control the correct shape of cells, even when knocked out, due to stored proteins in egg cells.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJan 23, 2018

When the eyes move, the eardrums move, too

Researchers at Duke University discovered that moving the eyes triggers vibrations in the eardrums, even without sound. This finding provides new understanding of how the brain coordinates visual and auditory information.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 23, 2018

Quantum control

Researchers have developed a quantum metamaterial composed of twin qubits, which can be used as a control element in superconducting electronic devices. The material exhibits unique properties that disappear when separated into its components, making it a promising candidate for future applications.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 23, 2018

C-sections linked to long-term risks and benefits

Research suggests that C-sections are associated with a decreased risk of urinary incontinence and pelvic prolapse, but an increased risk of asthma, obesity, and pregnancy complications. The study analyzed data from over 29 million participants and found mixed results on the long-term effects of C-sections.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJan 23, 2018

Genetic lung disease's molecular roots identified

Scientists have solved the puzzle of why some people with primary ciliary dyskinesia have non-functional cilia. Researchers found that mutations in non-motor proteins cause cilia to assemble incorrectly, leading to respiratory infections and other symptoms. The study offers new hope for treatment and potential screening for medications.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 23, 2018

How centipedes slay giant prey

A golden head centipede can subdue a caged mouse in under 30 seconds by injecting an estimated 30 μl of crude venom containing SsTx. The peptide toxin strongly inhibits KCNQ4 channels, controlling pulmonary vascular tone and arterial tension, leading to vasoconstriction and cardiovascular effects.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2018

Multifunctional platform for the delivery of gene therapeutics

Researchers have developed a multifunctional vehicle using gold nanoparticles to transport and release the CRISPR-Cas9 system for targeted gene editing in tumors. The platform combines hyperthermal cancer therapy with genetic modification, offering a promising approach for tumor therapy.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 22, 2018

Using social and risk networks helps identify people undiagnosed with HIV

Researchers found that conducting HIV testing among social and risk networks of those recently diagnosed with HIV can identify undiagnosed cases at higher rates and lower costs than other approaches. The study used a network-based recruiting, counseling, and HIV testing strategy, which was more effective in locating undiagnosed positives.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of the International AIDS Society·DateJan 22, 2018