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Science News Archive March 2018 - Page 8


Page 8 of 41

Ultrathin endoscope captures neurons firing deep in the brain

Scientists have created an ultra-thin fiber-based endoscope that can image neurons firing in living mice, offering new insights into brain function. The device is five times thinner than the smallest commercially available microendoscopes and allows for deeper brain imaging without damaging tissue.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateMar 26, 2018

How infighting turns toxic for chimpanzees

A recent study analyzed the social networks of 19 male chimpanzees, revealing how power struggles and competition for mates led to the division of the chimp community. The findings suggest that internal conflicts can have far-reaching consequences in primate societies.

SourceDuke University·JournalAmerican Journal of Physical Anthropology·DateMar 26, 2018

Insect toxin detected in the world's longest animal

Researchers at Uppsala University discovered a peptide toxin in the bootlace worm that can paralyze and kill crustaceans and cockroaches, with potential applications in agricultural insecticides. The toxin affects sodium channels, causing electric signalling in nerves and muscles, leading to paralysis.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 26, 2018

Looking deeper into brain function

Researchers propose a new concept to uncover connections between brain regions and cognitive functions, using a bottom-up approach. Recent advances in statistical methodology and brain imaging data provide the basis for this new method, which could help reveal the core functions of brain areas.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateMar 26, 2018

New standards for ancient protein studies set forth by multi-national group of researchers

A team of researchers from institutions at the leading edge of palaeoproteomics have published guidelines to support good practices in the field and ensure robust, reproducible results. The guide aims to provide consistency to a new field, addressing issues such as data reporting standards, authentication measures, and lab contamination.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 26, 2018

Food waste: The biggest loss could be what you choose to put in your mouth

A new study suggests that adopting plant-based diets could increase global food production by 50-200 times, making it a game-changer for addressing hunger and food waste. By replacing animal-based foods with edible crops, researchers estimate that 350 million more people could be fed with the same land resources.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 26, 2018

Animal migrations

Research estimates vulnerability and extinction risk of migratory species from different regions and ecosystems worldwide. Migratory animals face barriers such as roads, dams, and urban development, which can lead to population decline and increased extinction risk.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (B )·DateMar 26, 2018

Drug reduces inflammation in stroke patients

Researchers at the University of Manchester have found that an anti-inflammatory drug, Kineret, significantly reduces levels of inflammation in patients with ischemic strokes. The study, funded by the Stroke Association, shows promise for fast and effective treatment of stroke, but further trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalStroke·DateMar 26, 2018

Program to recruit under-represented minority high schoolers into medicine shows promise

A summer enrichment experience in South Carolina significantly improves students' biomedical knowledge by 38 percent, raising their understanding of how to prepare for medical school by 34 percent. The program aims to address physician shortages by recruiting more future physicians from underrepresented minority communities.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateMar 26, 2018

As antibiotics fail, global consumption of antibiotics skyrockets, further driving drug resistance

A new study reveals that global antibiotic use increased by 39% between 2000 and 2015, with significant increases in low-income and middle-income countries. The study highlights the need for strategies to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use and support alternatives to address the growing threat of drug resistance.

SourceBurness·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 26, 2018