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Science News Archive February 2018 - Page 3


Page 3 of 36

'Random walk' of heat carriers in amorphous polymers

The study investigates how chain conformation influences thermal conductivity in amorphous polymers, revealing that ultra-thin polymer nanofibers exhibit higher thermal conductivity due to aligned molecular chains. An empirical function is proposed to describe the diameter dependence of chain conformation.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateFeb 28, 2018

Black holes from small galaxies might emit gamma rays

Research suggests that small galaxies with smaller black holes can also produce powerful gamma-ray jets, a phenomenon previously thought to be exclusive to massive galaxies. This discovery has the potential to shift our understanding of astrophysics and blur the lines between different types of active galaxies.

SourceClemson University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateFeb 28, 2018

Disappearing act

Researchers found the Asian tiger mosquito vanished from Palmyra Atoll following rat eradication, as humans became the sole host for mosquitoes to feed on. The study highlights a potential new approach to combatting mosquito-borne diseases by eradicating key hosts.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalBiology Letters·DateFeb 28, 2018

Children's use of non-dental services for oral pain could be costing the NHS £2.3 million a year

A recent study found that thousands of children with oral pain in London are being taken to pharmacies and non-dental health services, resulting in unnecessary use of NHS resources. The study highlights the need for integrated systems and better referral processes to ensure children receive dental treatment as soon as possible.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalBMJ Open·DateFeb 28, 2018

Unpacking asymmetric cell division

Researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School investigated the role of phosphatidylinositol lipids and proteins in asymmetric cell division, a process vital for producing mature brain cells. They discovered a new protein called Vibrator, which plays a key role in this complex process.

To build up mussels, you need to know your fish

A new study by Michigan State University reveals that conserving mussels is linked to protecting their host fish species. The research found that different mussel varieties are tied to specific fish hosts and prioritize conservation efforts must protect both. This understanding will inform the development of effective conservation stra...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalHydrobiologia·DateFeb 27, 2018

Our reactions to odor reveal our political attitudes

Researchers found a strong connection between supporting a society led by an authoritarian leader and being sensitive to body odours. The study suggests that disgust plays a role in shaping ideological attitudes, with people who are more disgusted being more likely to vote for authoritarian candidates.

SourceStockholm University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateFeb 27, 2018

Levels of inappropriate antibiotic prescribing in England estimated to be 20%

Research estimates that at least 20% of antibiotic prescriptions in English primary care are inappropriate, with higher proportions prescribed for respiratory and urinary tract infections. The study highlights the need for better diagnostic coding and prescribing guidelines to reduce antibiotic misuse and preserve their effectiveness.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJournal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy·DateFeb 27, 2018

Running rings around cholera outbreaks

A study modeling cholera epidemics suggests that targeting vaccine and other interventions to areas around existing cholera cases is an effective way to control outbreaks. The results indicate that oral cholera vaccine is the most effective intervention, with a radius of 70-100 meters being optimal for administration.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateFeb 27, 2018

New insight on the formation of East Asian flora

Researchers propose two distinct floras, Rhododendron Flora and Metasequoia Flora, to represent core regions of the Sino-Japanese and Sino-Himalayan flora. The study suggests East Asian flora is relatively young, with most clades originating since the Miocene, and may be a refugial area for ancient relict plants.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateFeb 27, 2018

Individual quantum dots imaged in 3-D for first time

A new imaging technique uses a super sharp needle to nudge individual nanoparticles into different orientations, capturing 2D images to reconstruct 3D pictures. This method allows for the observation of defects in nanostructures like semiconductors and proteins, which can lead to better characterization and control of their production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateFeb 27, 2018

Simple urine test could measure how much our body has aged

Researchers found a substance indicating oxidative damage increases in urine as people get older, potentially providing a method to measure biological age. The study measured 8-oxoGsn levels in human urine samples from Chinese residents aged 2-90 years old, finding an age-dependent increase in urinary 8-oxoGsn.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Aging Neuroscience·DateFeb 27, 2018

Obesity could be linked to early childhood behavior

A study by the University of Waterloo found that early childhood behaviors are strong predictors of adult obesity. The research team identified four clusters of risk: Inactive Screen-Users, Moderately Active Substance Users, and two groups with healthier behaviors. Public health efforts should focus on modifying these behaviors earlier...

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 27, 2018