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Science News Archive September 2018 - Page 32


Page 32 of 37

Common pesticide inhibits brain development in frogs

Research published in Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry reveals that chlorpyifos inhibits brain development in Northern Leopard tadpoles. The study demonstrates the impact of organophosphorous pesticides on vertebrate neurodevelopment, even at low concentrations.

SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateSep 6, 2018

We need to talk about sexuality after stroke

A new study found that stroke survivors struggle to discuss their sexuality and intimacy with healthcare professionals, who rarely address the topic during rehabilitation. The review highlights the importance of proper support from health and rehabilitation professionals to address these issues.

SourceSAGE·JournalClinical Rehabilitation·DateSep 6, 2018

Burly bird gets the worm

A study at the University of Exeter found that larger garden birds, such as house sparrows and greenfinches, dominate access to better food sources like sunflower hearts. Smaller bird species like blue tits and coal tits face limited access to quality food, pecking quickly to make the most of their time.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 5, 2018

Lymph node structural cells rein in human immune responses

Researchers identified four mechanisms by which Fibroblastic Reticular Cells dampen down T cell responses, including pathways involving prostaglandin E2 and transforming growth factor beta. The study's findings have significant implications for understanding immune responses in situations where T cells don't work as well as they should.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 5, 2018

Physics model acts as an 'EKG' for solar panel health

Researchers created an algorithm using physics of panel degradation to analyze solar farm data, providing a portable EKG for solar farms. The approach can inform better panel designs, prolong lifespan, and cut electrical bills, ultimately transforming the industry's diagnosis and decision-making processes.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProgress in Photovoltaics Research and Applications·DateSep 5, 2018

Rice U. lab probes molecular limit of plasmonics

Researchers from Rice University's Laboratory for Nanophotonics studied plasmons in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) with fewer than 50 atoms. They found that these molecules can support molecular plasmons in the visible spectrum, offering a new area of research at the intersection of plasmonics and molecular chemistry.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 5, 2018

Perceiving support -- not receiving it -- helps people cope with worry and waiting

A recent study by UC Riverside researcher Kate Sweeny found that perception of romantic partner's responsiveness during anxious waiting periods is associated with reduced stress. People who perceived their partner as supportive reported better sleep and overall health, even if they didn't receive actual support.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateSep 5, 2018

Study: Ways to maximize nutrition and growth for the smallest preemies

A study published in the Journal of Pediatrics found that changes in calorie and protein intake were estimated during five transition phases from full intravenous nutrition to full enteral nutrition. The researchers recommend specific approaches to maximize calorie and protein intake during various transition phases.

SourceAnn & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateSep 5, 2018

Could a demon help to create a quantum computer?

Researchers at Penn State successfully organized atoms in a lattice to lower entropy, which could aid in creating a quantum computer. This achievement uses uncharged atoms as qubits, enabling multiple states simultaneously and making computation more efficient.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateSep 5, 2018

Scientists identify weak point in deadly eye melanoma

A natural plant compound called FR900359 has been identified as a potential treatment for uveal melanoma, shutting down the overactive signaling that drives cell growth. The compound traps G alpha q in its inactive state, preventing tumor cell growth and potentially reversing cancer-like changes.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience Signaling·DateSep 5, 2018

Researchers date 'hibernating' HIV strains, advancing BC's leadership in HIV cure research

Researchers have developed a novel method to date 'hibernating' HIV strains, revealing a genetically diverse latent reservoir that can persist for decades. The study confirms the importance of understanding the timeline and characteristics of HIV in the latent reservoir for developing an effective cure.

SourceBC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 5, 2018