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Science News Archive 2019 - Page 12


Page 12 of 486

Brain waves in mice change based on memory age

A team at RIKEN Center for Brain Science analyzed mouse brain activity using machine-learning algorithms, identifying distinct brain waves for recent and remote memories. They found a strong link between the frontal brain region and hippocampus, suggesting a possible mechanism to track memory age.

SourceRIKEN·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 17, 2019

In breakthrough method of creating solar material, NREL scientists prove the impossible really isn't

Researchers at NREL successfully integrated aluminum into their HVPE reactor and demonstrated the growth of semiconductors aluminum indium phosphide (AlInP) and aluminum gallium indium phosphide (AlGaInP). This breakthrough could lead to cheaper solar cells with comparable efficiency to MOVPE-grown ones.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateDec 17, 2019

Sinuses bothering you? Use those nasal sprays regularly

A recent study found that consistent use of nasal saline and corticosteroid sprays can significantly reduce the need for antibiotics and oral steroids in individuals with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). This reduction can lead to fewer side effects associated with these medications, such as gastric issues and mood disturbances. By using ...

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalThe Laryngoscope·DateDec 17, 2019

Special issue of Educational Researcher examines the nature and consequences of null findings

A newly released special issue examines the prevalence of null findings in randomized control trials, highlighting their expected and valuable role in evaluation research. Key articles propose frameworks for defining and interpreting null results, exploring context and implementation fidelity as factors influencing outcomes.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalEducational Researcher·DateDec 17, 2019

Scientists reveal the neural basis of confirmation bias

Researchers at Virginia Tech and University College London discovered a key brain region that drives confirmation bias, where activity modulates decision-making and memory. The study found that people tend to favor information reinforcing their existing opinions over contradictory ones.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateDec 17, 2019

Here's a bitter pill to swallow: Artificial sweeteners may be doing more harm than good

A recent review suggests that artificial sweeteners, commonly used to aid weight loss, may actually contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes and weight gain. According to UniSA Professor Peter Clifton, consuming large quantities of artificial sweeteners can alter gut bacteria and lead to increased calorie intake.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalCurrent Atherosclerosis Reports·DateDec 17, 2019

First study on human-grade dog food says whole, fresh food is highly digestible

A recent study from the University of Illinois discovered that human-grade dog foods are not only highly palatable but also more digestible than initially estimated. The researchers tested six commercial dog foods made with minimally processed human-edible ingredients, finding high protein quality and low stool volume in dogs.

Solving a combinatorial quandary

Lehigh University professor Brian Chen is developing software that can predict protein interactions, reducing the need for human interpretation. The software has already successfully demonstrated the ability to predict something completely unknown in a collaboration with Rutgers University.

First US study shows strong results for procedure to treat knee pain from OA

A new US study demonstrates the effectiveness of genicular artery embolization (GAE) in treating osteoarthritis knee pain. The minimally invasive procedure blocks blood flow to certain parts of the knee, providing rapid relief from pain and disability. Results show significant improvement in pain scores, with nearly all patients experi...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateDec 17, 2019

Novel genetic signature that can predict some kinds of breast cancer is identified

Researchers have identified a genetic signature associated with the degree of pathological angiogenesis in breast cancer tumors. The study combined gene expression profiles from public databases with analysis of retinopathy models to uncover key genes involved in pathological angiogenesis, providing a new tool for breast cancer treatment.

Limiting global warming would relieve populations from wet and dry extremes in China

A study published in Science Bulletin finds that limiting global warming to 1.5°C would reduce precipitation extremes in China, particularly in southeastern regions. The research highlights the social impacts of climate change, with heavy rainfall events intensifying across the country and dry extremes increasing in South China.

New metrics needed to evaluate and combat HIV epidemics in the US

A commentary published in the American Journal of Public Health argues that existing metrics are insufficient to track the public health response to HIV in the US. Newer metrics are needed to inform and evaluate efforts aimed at reducing new HIV infections by 75% and 90% over the next five and ten years, respectively.

SourceCUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateDec 17, 2019

Consider marine life when implementing offshore renewable power

Researchers warn of potential negative impacts of offshore renewable energy on marine life, including head trauma and hearing loss. The study suggests that consideration should be given to the impact of technologies like wind turbines and wave energy converters on marine animals before implementation.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 17, 2019

Good aerobic fitness doesn't protect children against type 2 diabetes, staying active does

Good aerobic fitness is not linked to lower risk of insulin resistance in obese children. Instead, more physical activity and less sedentary time were associated with reduced insulin resistance regardless of body fat percentage. The study suggests that more physical activity plays a key role in preventing type 2 diabetes in childhood.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateDec 17, 2019

Limiting the loss of nature

A University of Queensland-led team proposes a global goal to limit the loss of nature by setting a 'no net loss' target for natural ecosystems. The researchers considered socioeconomic factors across 170 countries and recognized the need for equitable contributions to conservation and restoration.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateDec 16, 2019