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Science News Archive December 2018 - Page 12


Page 12 of 33

Communication between neural networks

The study combines synfire communication, coherence and resonance to provide insight into how messages are exchanged between brain areas. The researchers found that oscillations play a significant role in determining whether communication can take place.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Reviews Neuroscience·DateDec 17, 2018

Front and center: Food labels have effects on consumption and product formulation

A systematic review of interventional studies found that food labels can lead to changes in consumer behavior, including reduced calorie and fat intake, but not significant impacts on other nutrients. Industry responses also showed reductions in trans fat and sodium, but no effects on added sugar or other healthy components.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateDec 17, 2018

Changes in agriculture could cut sector non-CO2 greenhouse gas emissions by up to 50 percent

Researchers found that changing agricultural practices and shifting diets away from meat and dairy products could reduce sector emissions by up to 50% by 2050. Dietary changes in overconsuming countries could contribute additional reductions of 23%, with the beef and dairy industries having high greenhouse gas intensities.

Discovery of novel mechanisms that cause migraines

A new mechanism has been discovered for the onset of migraines, involving a mutation in a protein that inhibits neuronal electrical activity. This finding opens a new path for the development of anti-migraine medicines by targeting K2P2.1 channels to reduce neuronal excitability.

SourceCNRS·JournalNeuron·DateDec 17, 2018

Using light to stop itch

Scientists at EMBL Rome have discovered a way to treat itchy skin conditions like eczema by using near-infrared light to bind to specialized nerve cells. This method has shown promising results in mice with eczema and amyloidosis, offering new hope for potential human treatments.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateDec 17, 2018

Switch-in-a-cell electrifies life

Rice University scientists develop synthetic protein switches to control electron flow, enabled by chemical triggers. The discovery enables custom-designed switches for applications such as living sensors and electronically controlled metabolic pathways.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateDec 17, 2018

New approach will help geneticists identify genes responsible for complex traits

Researchers developed SPAEML, a statistical approach that can accurately detect the underpinnings of simulated complex traits. The method was tested on datasets similar to Alzheimer's disease and flower structure in corn, identifying simulated markers and distinguishing between additive and interacting loci.

Biodegradable, edible film kills pathogens on seafood

Researchers developed a biodegradable edible film made with plant starch and antimicrobial compounds to control the growth of foodborne pathogens on seafood. The film successfully killed vibrio and salmonella bacteria, which are linked to gastrointestinal problems when consumed.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Food Microbiology·DateDec 17, 2018

Drivers who can 'bid' for parking spaces may improve parking options around the world

A new Tel Aviv University study suggests that a parking algorithm can guarantee uniform parking occupancy by filling spots in less lucrative areas. The algorithm has been tested in the Israeli city of Bat Yam, establishing real-time adaptive parking prices that ensured 90 percent parking occupancy without expensive equipment.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems·DateDec 17, 2018

Space telescope detects water in a number of asteroids

The Japanese infrared satellite AKARI has detected hydrated minerals containing water in a number of asteroids, providing insight into the distribution of water in our solar system. The study reveals that C-type asteroids were formed by the agglomeration of rocks and water ice, followed by aqueous alteration and dehydration.

SourceKobe University·JournalPublications of the Astronomical Society of Japan·DateDec 17, 2018