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Science News for November 7, 2018


Graphene takes a step towards renewable fuel

Researchers at Linköping University have developed a method to produce graphene with several layers in a controlled process, enabling the conversion of carbon dioxide and water into renewable fuel. The graphene also exhibits superconducting properties when arranged in a special way.

SourceLinköping University·JournalCarbon·DateNov 7, 2018

Protecting adult female North Atlantic right whales from injury and death key to recovery

Researchers found that preserving the lives of adult females in the North Atlantic right whale population is crucial for promoting population growth and recovery. Most deaths are attributed to entanglement in fishing gear and collisions with ships, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect these animals.

SourceNOAA Northeast Fisheries Science Center·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·DateNov 7, 2018

Genetic study clarifies the causes of the most severe heart muscle diseases of children

A genetic study led by University of Helsinki researchers has uncovered the underlying causes of severe heart muscle diseases in children, revealing a unique genetic profile for each family. The study's findings have significant implications for predicting disease course and treatment decisions, paving the way for personalized medicine.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateNov 7, 2018

Autonomous vehicles could shape the future of urban tourism

The study explores the potential impact of autonomous vehicles on urban tourism, highlighting both benefits such as reduced traffic congestion and improved foreign car hire processes, as well as concerns over job losses and increased urban sprawl. As AVs become mainstream, urban attractions may be transformed, and new industries like A...

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalAnnals of Tourism Research·DateNov 7, 2018

Nasal delivery of weight-loss hormone eases breathing problems in sleeping mice

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have successfully delivered the weight-loss hormone leptin through the nose to obese mice, alleviating breathing problems during sleep. The study suggests that nasal delivery may overcome leptin resistance and provide a new treatment option for obstructive sleep apnea.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 7, 2018

Study explores timing of muscle-related problems of statin use

A recent study found that statin-induced musculoskeletal adverse events (MAEs) have distinct onset timings for different statins, with high-intensity statins triggering symptoms faster. The study also revealed that concomitant drug use does not alter the timing of MAEs associated with statins.

SourceWiley·JournalPharmacology Research & Perspectives·DateNov 7, 2018

Watching nanoparticles

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new technique to study individual nanoparticles undergoing photocatalytic reactions. The method, published in Nature Communications, uses a custom-designed specimen holder and mirrors to focus light onto the nanoparticle, allowing scientists to observe the reaction as it unfolds.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 7, 2018

Among heart attack survivors, drug reduces chances of second heart attack or stroke

A large international clinical trial found that alirocumab, a PCSK9 antibody, reduced the chance of additional heart problems or stroke in heart attack survivors. LDL cholesterol levels decreased by 50% with alirocumab treatment, leading to a 15% reduction in risk of death from coronary heart disease, another heart attack, or stroke.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 7, 2018

Bullying 'follows' LGB people from school to work

A new study by Anglia Ruskin University finds that around one in three LGB individuals who are bullied at school will experience similar bullying in the workplace. The study also examines the impact on job satisfaction and mental health, finding a negative association between bullying and job satisfaction.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalManchester School·DateNov 7, 2018

Discovery: Rare three-species hybrid warbler

Scientists have identified a rare three-species hybrid warbler found in Pennsylvania, resulting from a Golden-winged/Blue-winged Warbler mother and a Chestnut-sided Warbler father. Genetic analysis revealed the unique combination of traits, shedding light on bird's adaptability and genetic diversity.

SourceCornell University·JournalBiology Letters·DateNov 7, 2018

Can social media lead to labor market discrimination?

A new study found that social media can be a source of information for recruiters to discriminate against job applicants based on their city of origin. Researchers sent over 800 applications with different cities listed on Facebook profiles and found a significant gap in callback rates between applicants from France and Morocco.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Economics & Management Strategy·DateNov 7, 2018

Mailed HPV tests can help find women at-risk for cervical cancer, study finds

Researchers found that mailing self-collection kits to test for high-risk human papillomavirus infection detected high-risk HPV in all cases of women with high-grade, abnormal cervical precancerous growths. This approach has the potential to boost cervical cancer screening, especially among low-income women who are overdue for testing.

SourceUNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateNov 7, 2018

Disrupting communication in infectious bacteria

The Konstanz research team developed a technique to measure enzyme inhibition in living cells, which allows for the discovery of inhibitors targeting quinolone biosynthesis. Inhibiting this process disrupts bacterial communication and prevents toxin production, blocking infectious properties.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 7, 2018

Modern slavery promotes overfishing

New research reveals modern slavery promotes overfishing by allowing distant-water fishing fleets to remain profitable, with crews from China, Taiwan, and Russia facing high risk of labour abuses. Global marine fish catches are declining at a rate of 1.2 million tonnes per year.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 7, 2018

Surgery patients use only 1/4 of prescribed opioids, and prescription size matters

A new study found that surgery patients often take less than half of the prescribed opioid pain medications, with prescription size being the most important factor. The study suggests that surgeons can reduce opioid prescriptions and improve patient safety by considering individual factors such as pain scores and operation intensity.