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Science News Archive October 2018 - Page 27


Page 27 of 47

Increasing vigorous exercise decreases risk of type two diabetes, cardiovascular disease in childhood

A two-year study of primary school children found that increasing vigorous exercise reduces the accumulation of risk factors for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In contrast, sedentary behaviour increases risk factors. The findings support the role of physical activity in preventing chronic diseases in childhood.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalScandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports·DateOct 15, 2018

Linguistic red flags from Facebook posts can predict future depression diagnoses

Researchers developed an algorithm that accurately predicts depression based on social media data, including mentions of hostility and loneliness. The study analyzed Facebook posts from over 1,200 people with depression diagnoses and found a strong correlation between certain language markers and future diagnoses.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 15, 2018

Human and cattle decoys trap malaria mosquitoes outdoors

A study published in Parasites & Vectors found that host decoy traps baited with human or cattle odour can effectively collect outdoor-biting mosquitoes, including the main malaria vector species Anopheles arabiensis. The traps outperformed traditional methods such as human landing catch and caught more mosquitoes than expected.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalParasites & Vectors·DateOct 14, 2018

A new study indicates the possibility to monitor the progression of Alzheimer's disease by monitoring major brain antioxidant levels using noninvasive techniques

Researchers have identified glutathione, a key brain antioxidant, as significantly depleted in Alzheimer's patients compared to healthy individuals. Non-invasive imaging techniques revealed that lower levels of this antioxidant are associated with mild cognitive impairment and may hold potential for therapeutic development.

Is there a benefit to switching from flash monitoring to RT-CGM for hypoglycemia?

Researchers found that switching to real-time continuous glucose monitoring (RT-CGM) significantly reduced time spent in hypoglycemia among adults with type 1 diabetes at high risk of hypoglycemia. The study also showed that continuing RT-CGM for an additional 8 weeks maintained the benefits of this option

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalDiabetes Technology & Therapeutics·DateOct 12, 2018

Building a better battery layer by layer

Researchers at Shinshu University developed a self-assembled monolayer coating that promotes efficient transportation within electrodes, suppressing side reactions in high-voltage lithium-ion batteries. The coating improved power density and cyclability, allowing the battery to maintain capacity even after 100 cycles.

SourceShinshu University·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 12, 2018

A new mechanism for how animal cells stay intact

Researchers at Stanford University have found a unique way that animal cells stay intact in the marine organism Trichoplax adhaerens (Tplax), using fast contractions in its epithelial layers. This discovery could inform our understanding of complex animals and the creation of advanced materials.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 12, 2018

Why don't we understand statistics? Fixed mindsets may be to blame

A study found that fixed mindsets can lead to difficulties in solving statistical problems, even when simpler solutions are available. The researchers suggest that a lack of education in natural frequencies may be the cause, and hope to encourage curriculum designers to incorporate this concept into school mathematics and statistics.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateOct 12, 2018

Unapproved ingredients in over-the-counter supplements

A study analyzed FDA warnings from 2007-2016 and identified over 700 dietary supplements with unapproved pharmaceutical ingredients. Most of these products were marketed for sexual enhancement, weight loss, or muscle building, highlighting the need for stricter regulation of over-the-counter supplements.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateOct 12, 2018