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Science News Archive May 2018 - Page 34


Page 34 of 44

New shrew species discovered on 'sky island' in Philippines

The discovery of Palawanosorex muscorum, a unique mammal species found in the Philippines' Mt. Mantalingahan, sheds light on the country's rich biodiversity and the importance of protecting its 'sky islands'. The species' habitat is crucial for regulating water flow, which has significant implications for the local economy and population.

SourceField Museum·JournalJournal of Mammalogy·DateMay 8, 2018

Uterine cancer survivors are more likely to have cardiovascular problems

A new study found that uterine cancer survivors are more likely to experience cardiovascular problems years after treatment. The researchers identified a significant association between endometrial cancer diagnosis and an increased risk of heart diseases, peripheral and vascular atherosclerosis, and other circulatory disorders.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMay 8, 2018

The secret of a long life

Research team from the University of Freiburg found that termite queens can live up to 20 years due to their unique genetic profile, which differs significantly from older workers. The discovery suggests that the superorganism concept may hold the key to understanding longevity in social insects.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 8, 2018

Simple post-surgery step reduces bladder cancer recurrence

A randomized clinical trial found that flushing the bladder with a chemotherapy drug immediately after surgery significantly reduces the chances of bladder cancer returning. The study, published in JAMA, showed a 34% reduction in the risk of recurrence for patients receiving the treatment.

SourceSWOG·JournalJAMA·DateMay 8, 2018

Equal subsidies 'surprisingly powerful,' in promoting use of gold-standard medications

A new study by Gonzalo Romero and colleagues suggests that equal subsidies for gold-standard medications can be an effective way to promote their use. In the worst-case scenario, this approach still reaches at least half of treatments, while in better conditions, it may achieve up to 85% of maximum possible drug treatment outcomes.

Our vulnerable nervous system: What affects its protective sheaths?

A team of scientists at FAU has discovered how protein molecules regulate the formation of myelin sheaths in the nervous system. The study found that Nfat proteins are essential for successful interaction between other protein molecules, and their inhibition can lead to myelin loss and neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 8, 2018

Decoding tornadoes' infrasound waves

Researchers have discovered that tornado-producing storms emit infrasound waves that can be detected hundreds of miles away. By analyzing these waves, meteorologists may gain valuable insights into the formation processes and life cycle of tornadoes, enabling early warning systems and potentially saving lives.

Heartbeat out of sync

Researchers developed a method to improve electrical transmission in the heart by introducing the Connexin 43 gene into cells forming the infarct scar. Mice with overexpressed Cx43 showed reduced cardiac arrhythmias compared to control animals.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 8, 2018

Stay safe, take the bus

A Montreal study reveals that bus travel is significantly safer than car travel, with four times fewer injuries for passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians. The study's findings suggest that permanent speed-reducing structures and public transit are key to reducing road injuries.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Urban Health·DateMay 8, 2018

Watch how a T cell passes HIV sexually to a new host

Researchers have developed an in vitro model of urethral mucosa to visualize the HIV transmission process. The study reveals that infected T cells target epithelial cells above macrophages, leading to viral production and shedding via transcytosis. Macrophages then capture and store the virus, posing a challenge for treatment efforts.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports·DateMay 8, 2018

Scientists observe stronger-than-binary correlations with entangled photonic qutrits

Researchers have observed stronger-than-binary correlations in quantum mechanics for the first time, utilizing three-dimensional entangled photon sources. The experiment, conducted 8 meters apart, demonstrates the existence of such correlations, which could lead to a deeper understanding of fundamental problems in quantum theory.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 8, 2018

AI detects patterns of gut microbes for cholera risk

Researchers used machine learning algorithms to identify patterns within human gut bacteria that predict susceptibility to cholera. The study found that a set of 100 microbes associated with the disease can be predicted by AI, potentially leading to improved vaccines and preventive approaches.

SourceDuke University·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateMay 7, 2018