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Science News for August 21, 2018


Vulnerable youth stress the importance of influential adults in their school lives

Research finds that even vulnerable kids can identify specific adults who made a difference in their education. The study's participants highlighted the need for communication and collaboration among adult providers to ensure youth don't fall through the cracks. Better support systems are crucial for improving educational outcomes.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalChildren and Youth Services Review·DateAug 21, 2018

Irony is the new black

Researchers found that ironic consumption allows consumers to signal their identity or beliefs to groups they know, while hiding from those outside. This phenomenon can lead to a new brand identity and cultural rebirth for passé products like Pabst Blue Ribbon.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 21, 2018

Certain antibiotic-resistant infections on the rise, new research shows

A California emergency department study found nearly 6% of urinary tract infections were caused by drug-resistant bacteria, with no identifiable risk factor for infection in many cases. The researchers urge wider use of urine culture tests and improved follow-up systems to address the growing problem of antibiotic resistance.

SourceAmerican College of Emergency Physicians·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateAug 21, 2018

AMP addresses clinical relevance of DNA variants in chronic myeloid neoplasms

The Association for Molecular Pathology recommends a minimum of 34 critical genes for high-throughput pan-myeloid sequencing tests to standardize clinical practice and improve patient care. The report provides evidence-based guidelines for the management of chronic myeloid neoplasms, including diagnostic and prognostic information.

SourceAssociation for Molecular Pathology·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateAug 21, 2018

A switch to turn fragrances on and off

Scientists at Salk Institute and Purdue University discovered a key to mass-producing beneficial plant compounds, including terpenoids used in fragrances, flavorings, biofuels, and pharmaceuticals. They found that plants have an

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature Plants·DateAug 21, 2018

Living close to urban green spaces is associated with a decreased risk of breast cancer

A new study from Barcelona Institute for Global Health found that women living closer to urban green spaces had a lower risk of breast cancer. The study, which analysed data from over 3,600 women in Spain, concluded that proximity to parks or gardens was associated with reduced breast cancer risk.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalInternational Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health·DateAug 21, 2018

Better genome editing

UCSB researchers have developed a highly efficient genome editing method that offers complete spatiotemporal control, allowing users to target specific cells or regions within the cell. This approach enables precise and transient gene editing with minimal long-term effects on DNA.

Preparing for chemical attacks with improved computer models

University of Texas at San Antonio researchers have developed improved computer models to predict the dispersal of chemical plumes, enabling more accurate evacuations. The models can simulate real-world conditions despite limited information, providing critical insights into the spread of toxic agents like sarin gas.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalAtmospheric Pollution Research·DateAug 21, 2018

Getting in Shape

Scientists have developed a novel approach to synthesize highly crystalline triazine frameworks, which demonstrate exceptional thermal stability and high photocatalytic efficiency. This method could be the starting point for industrial production of these frameworks.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 21, 2018

Antipsychotic use in older adults after heart surgery

A recent study found that antipsychotic medications are not proven to be effective for treating delirium in older adults after heart surgery, and may even cause heart rhythm problems and other dangerous side effects. The study suggests that the use of these medications is excessive and warrants more appropriate prescribing practices.

SourceAmerican Geriatrics Society·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateAug 21, 2018

How the brain suppresses the act of revenge

A UNIGE team discovered which brain zones are activated in anger and how the brain suppresses the act of revenge. The prefrontal dorsolateral cortex (DLPFC) plays a key role in regulating emotions, with higher activity during provocation phases leading to less punishment against unfair players.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 21, 2018

Illinois study pioneers humane feline research facility

Researchers at the University of Illinois created a unique study environment for cats to advance science and test an injectable contraceptive vaccine. The hybrid facility, dual-licensed as a USDA research facility and animal shelter, provided enriching conditions with furniture, toys, and outdoor enclosure.

Switching DNA and RNA on and off

Scientists find that DNA and RNA have memory properties, with two stable states, making them suitable for storing data. The minimum electric field required for switching is inversely proportional to the ratio of topological polar surface area to total surface area.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateAug 21, 2018

Picture this: Camera with no lens

Researchers created a lensless camera by connecting a digital sensor to a plexiglass window, which acts as a makeshift lens. The system can capture recognizable images with computer algorithms decoding the pixelated data. This innovation opens up possibilities for various applications, including augmented reality goggles and biometric ...

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalOptics Express·DateAug 21, 2018

Nanobot pumps destroy nerve agents

Researchers create nanobot pumps that neutralize nerve agents and administer antidotes, powered by the enzyme's chemical energy. The technology has applications in medicine, manufacturing, robotics, and fluidics, and could be used to treat diseases like diabetes and deliver targeted treatments.

FDA research informs smokeless tobacco prevention messaging for at-risk youth

Recent FDA research identified effective health messaging strategies for rural, non-Hispanic White males aged 12-17 years who are at risk of initiating or experimenting with smokeless tobacco. The findings suggest that authenticity and straightforward facts about the health consequences of SLT use resonate well with this audience.

First in-depth profile of CAR T-cell signals suggests how to improve immunotherapy

Researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center compared two common CAR designs in lab models and found that the CD28 CAR showed faster and stronger activity, while the 4-1BB CAR was more effective in clearing cancer cells. The study provides insights into how to improve immunotherapy by designing future generations of CAR T-cell therapies.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalScience Signaling·DateAug 21, 2018

I hear what you say! Or do I?

A study published in Scientific Reports found that children's susceptibility to the McGurk effect decreases with age, while adults are more likely to be influenced by visual information. The research suggests a shift in sensory dominance across development, with reduced susceptibility in childhood and adult-like levels by 10 years of age.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 21, 2018