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Science News Archive January 2018 - Page 18


Page 18 of 37

Hunter-gatherers have a special way with smells

A new study found that hunter-gatherer groups, such as the Semaq Beri, excel at naming odors with ease, while non-hunter-gatherer groups, like the Semelai, struggle. The researchers suggest that cultural practices may play a role in shaping olfactory cognition.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJan 18, 2018

Study examines employment trends among patients with kidney failure

A study examining employment trends among patients with kidney failure found that employment was low throughout the study period at 23-24%. Approximately 120,000 adults in the US develop kidney failure each year, a majority of whom undergo dialysis. The probability of employment in kidney failure patients increased slightly over time.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateJan 18, 2018

Polymers based on boron?

Researchers at the University of Würzburg have successfully funded a project to develop boron polymers with unique properties. The team, led by Holger Braunschweig, aims to create efficient synthetic strategies to form stable boron chains, paving the way for a new class of materials.

Low-income immigrants face barriers to US citizenship

A new Stanford University study found that low-income immigrants in New York struggle to become US citizens due to high application fees. The research highlights the need for cost-effective solutions to address this barrier, such as introducing a multi-tiered fee structure and local public-private funding.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 18, 2018

Neutron-star merger yields new puzzle for astrophysicists

Astronomers studying the aftermath of a distant neutron-star merger are puzzled by the continued brightening of its afterglow, which defies initial expectations. New X-ray observations suggest a more complex emission process, potentially involving a hot 'cocoon' around a jet that shock-heated surrounding debris.

SourceMcGill University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJan 18, 2018

Research reveals atomic-level changes in ALS-linked protein

A team of researchers has described atom-by-atom changes in a family of proteins linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a group of brain disorders. The study suggests that small chemical changes can lead to big changes in assembly and disease-associated aggregation, offering new insights into disease mechanisms.

SourceBrown University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJan 18, 2018

Babies' babbling betters brains, language

New research shows that babies' babbling has a significant impact on their language development, with mothers responding more often to speech-like sounds. The study found that infants who babble more effectively learn words and vocabulary earlier in life, highlighting the importance of social feedback in language acquisition.

SourceCornell University·JournalDevelopmental Science·DateJan 18, 2018

Default setting in electronic medical records 'nudged' emergency department physicians to limit opioid prescriptions to 10 tablets

A new study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that implementing a default option for lower opioid tablet quantities in electronic medical records increased compliance with prescribing guidelines, resulting in fewer prescriptions written for larger quantities.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJan 17, 2018

Scientists shed light on a key molecular mechanism of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases

A study published in Immunity reveals that the immunomodulatory cytokine IL-23's pro-inflammatory activity critically depends on structural activation of the cytokine by its receptor, IL-23R. The findings provide new insights into autoimmune and inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and Crohn's disease.

Study: Patients benefit from one-on-one PT education before joint replacement

A study at Hospital for Special Surgery found that patients who received one-on-one physical therapy education and access to a web-based microsite prior to joint replacement surgery achieved physical therapy goals more quickly. This personalized approach improved their outcomes, including reduced hospital stay and increased confidence.

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateJan 17, 2018