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Science News for April 22, 2018


Growing evidence that probiotics are good for your liver

A new study suggests that probiotics can improve liver health by reducing oxidative stress caused by acetaminophen. Researchers found that mice treated with the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG suffered less liver damage when exposed to a high dose of acetaminophen.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 22, 2018

Drinking water may help exercising seniors stay mentally sharp

Researchers found that hydrated older adults showed noticeable improvement in executive function after exercising, while dehydrated individuals also improved but to a lesser extent. The study highlights the importance of hydration for cognitive health benefits in exercise

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateApr 22, 2018

Trichomonosis discovered amongst myna birds in Pakistan

Researchers have found a strain of trichomonosis in myna bird populations in Pakistan, infecting around 20% of the birds. The disease is carried by a parasite primarily found in pigeons and larger birds of prey, posing a risk to other species due to the invasive nature of myna birds.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalParasitology·DateApr 22, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Human-like walking mechanics evolved before the genus Homo

Research suggests that human-like bipedalism emerged around 3.6 million years ago, allowing for more efficient energy expenditure during long-distance travel. This shift likely responded to climate and habitat changes, enabling ancestral hominins to cover longer distances while foraging.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 22, 2018

Endangered salamander offers clues on healing spinal cord injury

Researchers have discovered that certain genes are shared between salamanders and humans, which could lead to new therapeutic targets for treating spinal cord injuries. By studying the molecular mechanisms at work in salamanders, scientists hope to understand why humans cannot regenerate nerves after injury.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 22, 2018

Four innovations that aim to improve the environment

Researchers have developed biomarkers to detect harmful environmental contaminants in wildlife, enabling faster development of diagnostic tools. Additionally, scientists have created a more sustainable method for producing biodiesel from low-cost cooking oil waste using nanoparticles.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 22, 2018
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Brainy new approaches to autism, chronic pain, concussion and more

Researchers are using cutting-edge techniques to shed new light on the intricate circuitry behind our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Innovative nanocapsules could improve drug delivery for Autism Spectrum Disorder, while mapping brain circuits with rabies and herpes viruses provides insights into learning and memory.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 22, 2018

Multiple sclerosis may be linked to sheep disease toxin

A new study suggests that exposure to epsilon toxin, produced by the bacterium Clostridium perfringens, may play a role in the development of multiple sclerosis. Antibodies against the toxin were found in 43% of MS patients in the UK, compared to 16% of control group participants.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalMultiple Sclerosis Journal·DateApr 22, 2018

Researchers report four new insights into diet and health

Researchers report four new insights into diet and health: time-restricted eating reduces tumor growth in mice, adults who eat breakfast gain less weight, and alternate-day fasting enhances weight loss. New studies also reveal the importance of taste perception in modulating hunger and fullness cues.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 22, 2018
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Researchers describe role of novel mutations in fosfomycin resistance

Researchers have discovered novel chromosomal mutations contributing to fosfomycin resistance in E. coli, with uhpB and uhpC mutations showing highest impact. The study found that these mutations rendered the antibiotic ineffective at lower doses compared to other mutations.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 22, 2018

Addition precautions at hospital don't help prevent spread of resistant bacteria

Research presented at ECCMID shows that additional contact precautions in non-ICU wards did not limit the spread of drug-resistant bacteria. The study found a high prevalence of ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae among patients admitted to these wards, despite strict adherence to standard precautions.

SourceEuropean Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases·DateApr 22, 2018

Shorter courses of prostate cancer radiotherapy are safe and effective

Researchers found that ultrahypofractionated radiotherapy is just as effective as standard radiotherapy in stopping prostate cancer from returning, with no significant long-term side effects. Patients treated with this method spend less time traveling to and from hospital for treatment.

SourceEuropean Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology (ESTRO)·DateApr 22, 2018
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Why zero-calorie sweeteners can still lead to diabetes, obesity

New research finds sugar replacements can cause health changes associated with diabetes and obesity, suggesting switching from regular to diet soda may not be a healthier option. Artificial sweeteners alter the body's processing of fat and energy, increasing the risk of negative health outcomes.

SourceExperimental Biology·DateApr 22, 2018