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Science News Archive April 2018 - Page 31


Page 31 of 42

Deciphering the 'mosaic' of the brain

Researchers have found that nitric oxide regulates neuron function by modulating a signalling step at the synapse, changing the position of the complexin protein within a synapse. This regulation can help understand neurological conditions and potentially lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 10, 2018

Review examines everything we know about Internet gaming disorder

Internet gaming disorder has a complex background of personal, familial, and environmental factors that increase risk for certain individuals. The review notes the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) is a good starting point for diagnosing IGD.

SourceWiley·JournalDevelopmental Medicine & Child Neurology·DateApr 10, 2018

How cheetahs outsmart lions and hyenas

A new study reveals that cheetahs modify their eating strategies depending on the presence of top predators like lions and hyenas. Mothers with cubs prioritize vigilance over speed, while single females and males focus on quick consumption to avoid prey theft.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateApr 10, 2018

Thin engineered material perfectly redirects and reflects sound

Researchers at Duke University have designed a thin material that can control sound waves with almost perfect efficiency, revolutionizing the manipulation of acoustic waves. The device uses a class of materials called metamaterials to redirect and reflect sound waves, offering significant improvements over previous devices.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 10, 2018

Digital penicillin production

Researchers at TU Wien have created a comprehensive mathematical model that accurately replicates the complex growth behavior of penicillin-producing organisms. This model is now helping Sandoz GmbH to optimize its production process, ensuring optimum quality by adjusting parameters such as nutrient supply in real-time.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalChemical Engineering Science·DateApr 10, 2018

Optimized perception in the twilight zone

Research at Goethe University Frankfurt reveals that the human brain prepares for dawn and dusk by reducing resting activity in the visual cortex, allowing it to process weak visual stimuli more effectively during these times. This mechanism may have provided an evolutionary advantage in the pre-industrial era.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 10, 2018

Study says charisma trumped narcissism for voters in 2016 US presidential election

A new study by Florida Atlantic University researchers suggests that perceived charisma can balance out the negative effects of a narcissistic personality on voters' perceptions of leaders. The study found that charisma and values alignment contributed to voter choice, while media coverage and social media amplify familiarity with cand...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateApr 10, 2018

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.