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Science News Archive July 2018 - Page 21


Page 21 of 38

New ALS therapy in clinical trials

Researchers have developed a new ALS therapy that extends survival and reverses signs of neuromuscular damage in mice and rats with SOD1 mutations. The investigational drug, an antisense oligonucleotide, has shown impressive effects in preclinical trials.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 16, 2018

AASM publishes clinical practice guideline on use of actigraphy for sleep disorders

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine has published a clinical practice guideline on the use of actigraphy in evaluating adult and pediatric patients with suspected sleep disorders. Actigraphy is recommended as a useful tool for gathering objective data on sleep habits, but not used as a substitute for polysomnography.

SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateJul 16, 2018

A step closer to quantum computers: NUS researchers show how to directly observe quantum spin effects

Scientists at NUS have discovered a practical way to observe and examine the quantum effects of electrons in topological insulators and heavy metals. This breakthrough enables the development of advanced quantum computing components and devices, potentially answering some of the world's toughest questions in finance and physics.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 16, 2018

New study finds folding graphene significantly enhances mechanical performance

Researchers found that folding graphene significantly enhances its mechanical properties, leading to increased stiffness, strength, and toughness in polymer composites. The folded structure can sustain larger bending forces compared to stacked layers, making it an efficient strategy for incorporating large-area monolayer graphene films.

Expert panel compares opioid epidemic to early days of HIV epidemic

An expert panel has identified parallels between the current opioid epidemic and the early days of the HIV epidemic. The panel recommends five crucial steps for clinicians treating patients affected by opioid addiction and these intersecting infections, including increasing access to addiction care and developing hospital-based protocols.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 13, 2018

Reading rivers

A study led by Tamara Pico from Harvard University estimates how glaciers moved by analyzing the weight of the ice sheet's impact on topography and river course. The researchers used a model that connects the growth of the ice sheet with changes in the Hudson River's direction, potentially offering new insights into glacier growth.

SourceHarvard University·JournalGeology·DateJul 13, 2018

Sticking with the wrong choice

Researchers discovered that mice, rats, and humans all exhibit the sunk cost fallacy, preferring to continue with a choice despite clear evidence of a better alternative. The study used economic games to test species' willingness to wait for rewards, finding that all three groups became more reluctant to quit as time passed.

The love lives of fruit flies

Research at Harvard Medical School reveals that fruit fly courtship is influenced by the convergence of motivation, perception, and chance. The study found that dopamine levels play a crucial role in directing courtship behavior, with high levels leading to persistent pursuit.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNeuron·DateJul 13, 2018