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Science News Archive July 2018 - Page 38


Page 38 of 38

How mangroves help keep the planet cool

A new study published in Nature Climate Change found that mangroves store significantly more carbon than previously estimated, with blue carbon levels underestimated by up to 50 percent and overestimated by up to 86 percent. The research provides a higher quality dataset for tropical countries to mitigate carbon enrichment.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJul 2, 2018

Illinois' crop-counting robot earns top recognition at leading robotics conference

Researchers at the University of Illinois developed a robot called TerraSentia to count corn plants with high accuracy. The robot uses a suite of sensors, algorithms, and deep learning to capture each plant from top to bottom, overcoming challenges such as varying inter-plant spacing.

Study shows machine learning can improve catalytic design

A new study shows that combining machine learning and quantum chemistry can help chemical engineers at Rice University and Penn State find fundamental correlations in large amounts of data. This allows them to narrow down their search and design more efficient catalysts, which can translate into millions of dollars for companies.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Catalysis·DateJul 2, 2018

Can doctors identify older patients at risk of medication harm?

A new study found that doctors' predictions of medication-related harm (MRH) in older adults are not reliable. Despite clinical experience and confidence influencing accuracy, predictions were no more accurate than chance. New approaches to identify high-risk individuals are needed to mitigate serious consequences.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateJul 2, 2018

Mutation and 3D modeling reveal new structure to cell division process

Researchers at OIST Graduate University challenge cohesin's ring-shaped model by demonstrating that a mutation can't break down the complex, suggesting it may have a different structure. A new hold-and-release model proposes cohesin is like a jaw that holds chromatids in place and then opens to allow chromatin to move.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 2, 2018

Prospective teachers more likely to view black faces than white faces as angry

A preliminary study by North Carolina State University researchers found that prospective teachers are more likely to perceive Black faces as angry and judge the behavior of Black children as more hostile. This cultural disconnect may contribute to the disproportionate number of Black students facing disciplinary actions.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalContemporary Educational Psychology·DateJul 2, 2018

Gene discovery unlocks mysteries to our immunity

A team of researchers from CSIRO Australia has identified a new gene called C6 that regulates the body's immune response to infection and disease. The discovery could lead to targeted therapies for various diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and inflammatory disorders.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 1, 2018

Predicting bad side effects

Researchers developed a DNA sequencing kit that identifies variations in the NUDT15 gene, allowing for accurate predictions of adverse reactions. The test has been approved for clinical use in Japan and holds promise for reducing severe side effects in East Asian patients.

SourceTohoku University·JournalJournal of Gastroenterology·DateJul 1, 2018

Cost-effective universal screening for hepatitis C in France

A mathematical model developed by Sylvie Deuffic-Burban assesses the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of different screening strategies, including universal screening. The results show that universal screening is associated with better life expectancy adjusted for quality of life than other strategies.

SourceANRS·JournalJournal of Hepatology·DateJul 1, 2018