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Science News Archive May 2018 - Page 38


Page 38 of 44

To treat pain, you need to treat the patient

Researchers created PainTracker, a pain assessment adaptable to primary care clinics, addressing patient treatment history, goals and expectations, pain intensity and quality-of-life issues. The tool has dramatically transformed doctors' ability to assess and manage chronic pain, with 40-60% of patients having inadequate pain management.

SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateMay 4, 2018

New approach for treating neuropathic pain

Researchers have found a novel therapeutic that interrupts signaling cascades in the body required for multiple forms of neuropathic pain. The treatment targets the nNOS-NOS1AP protein-protein interactions, reducing neuropathic pain in rodents and disrupting nociceptive signaling.

SourceUniversity of Turku·JournalPain·DateMay 4, 2018

Less is more when it comes to developing bigger brains

Researchers used mathematical models to re-enact brain development in humans, monkeys, and mice, finding that the human brain requires fewer initial cells to grow. The study suggests that humans may have adopted a different developmental program to produce neurons efficiently within a longer gestational period.

SourceCardiff University·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateMay 4, 2018

Computerized test may help improve ADHD diagnoses

A new clinical trial published in Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry shows that a computerised test of attention and activity (QbTest) can reduce the time needed to make a diagnostic decision on ADHD, increase the likelihood of excluding ADHD when it is not present, and improve clinicians' confidence in their decision-making. T...

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateMay 4, 2018

Even brief maternal deprivation early in life alters adult brain function and cognition

A new animal model study found that brief maternal deprivation in early life alters adult brain function and cognition, leading to memory impairment and decreased communication between brain regions. The findings suggest a potential link between early-life trauma and the development of schizophrenia.

Weeds take over kelp in high CO2 oceans

New research from the University of Adelaide shows that weedy marine plants will dominate coastal habitats in high CO2 conditions, replacing kelp forests that support higher biodiversity. Small weedlike species will fuel their growth due to carbon emissions, allowing them to outcompete and outgrow kelps.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalEcology·DateMay 3, 2018

The headache of adapting to the cold

Researchers discovered a genetic variant associated with migraine headaches that is more common in people living in colder climates and higher latitudes. This variant may have helped early humans adapt to the cold, contributing to its high frequency in European populations and higher prevalence among individuals suffering from migraines.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMay 3, 2018

World's rarest ape on the edge of extinction

The Tapanuli Orangutan, one of the rarest animals on the planet, is under threat from a planned U.S.$1.6 billion mega-dam project that could flood its habitat and destroy its remaining area. The species survives only in areas with no roads, making it vulnerable to illegal logging, clearing, and poaching.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 3, 2018

3D batteries pack power into tiny footprints

Researchers have developed a powerful 3D lithium ion battery with an area footprint smaller than 0.09 square centimeters, achieving an energy density of 5.2 milli-watt-hours per square centimeter. This design uses a conformal electrolyte and semiconductor processing to overcome previous limitations in 3D battery technology.

SourceCell Press·JournalJoule·DateMay 3, 2018