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Science News Archive 2019 - Page 209


Page 209 of 486

One in 75 new mothers go on to long-term opioid painkiller use; risk rises with size of Rx

A recent study of over 308,000 women who gave birth from 2008 to 2016 found that nearly half received opioid prescriptions as part of their birth experience, with one in every hundred still filling them a year later. The percentage of women filling opioid prescriptions declined over time, suggesting growing awareness of the national op...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 26, 2019

Shaping light with a smartlens

A team of researchers from ICFO demonstrates an adjustable technique to manipulate light without mechanical movement, enabling the creation of dynamically tuneable lenses with high control and low power consumption. The Smartlens technology has potential applications in high-end systems and simple end-user-oriented imaging devices.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalNature Photonics·DateJul 26, 2019

How is urban green space associated with mental health?

This observational study found that exposure to more tree canopy was associated with a lower likelihood of psychological distress and better self-rated general health. However, no green space indicator was consistently linked to depression or anxiety, and low-lying vegetation had mixed results.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateJul 26, 2019

Banning tobacco sales to people under age 21 reduces smoking

A new Yale University study reveals that banning tobacco sales to people under age 21 significantly reduces smoking rates among 18- to 20-year-olds. The study found a 10% drop in smoking among these age group when local tobacco-21 laws are implemented, with effects expected to be even greater at the state level.

SourceYale University·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateJul 26, 2019

A good first step toward nontoxic solar cells

A team of engineers at Washington University in St. Louis has found a more stable, less toxic semiconductor for solar applications, made up of potassium, barium, tellurium, bismuth and oxygen (KBaTeBiO6). The new compound has a band gap of 1.88 eV, which is close to the halide perovskites, making it promising for solar cell applications.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateJul 26, 2019

Multiple dosing of long-acting rilpivirine in a model of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis

A new study examines the safety and effectiveness of multiple doses of injected rilpivirine, a long-acting antiretroviral agent. The results show that rilpivirine is associated with significant inhibition of HIV replication in rectal tissue, persisting for up to 4 months after treatment, but not in cervicovaginal tissue.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalAIDS Research and Human Retroviruses·DateJul 25, 2019

Terahertz imaging technique reveals subsurface insect damage in wood

Researchers have developed a new terahertz imaging technique that can detect subsurface insect damage in wood, allowing for early detection of infestations. The technique uses terahertz time-of-flight tomography to identify damage caused by insects like the typographer beetle, which infects spruce and other coniferous trees.

SourceOptica·JournalApplied Optics·DateJul 25, 2019

Neurobiology -- sushi for synapses

A team of researchers at LMU in Munich has found that messenger RNAs are transported between the cell body and nerve processes like sushi on an endless conveyor belt, allowing them to reach specific synapses. The discovery sheds light on how proteins are delivered to synapses, a crucial process for learning and memory.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 25, 2019

Scientists find clue to 'maternal instinct'

Research by LSU biologist Ryoichi Teruyama and student researcher Ryan LeBlanc has identified a group of cells activated by oxytocin in one area of female mouse brains not found in males. This discovery may lead to new treatments for postpartum depression, which affects 10-20% of women after childbirth.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 25, 2019

Missile strike false alarm most stressful for less anxious Hawaiians, study finds

A study by the American Psychological Association found that highly anxious individuals in Hawaii calmed down rapidly after a false missile alert, while those with lower anxiety levels took longer to stabilize. The researchers believe this may be due to the threat of imminent death putting day-to-day stressors into perspective.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateJul 25, 2019

Decades after a good-behavior program in grade school, adults report healthier, more successful lives

University of Washington researchers found that parents and teachers who received a bonding curriculum in elementary school reported better health and socioeconomic status as adults. The study, which followed participants since fifth-grade, showed enduring effects on physical health, mental well-being, and civic engagement.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalPrevention Science·DateJul 25, 2019

Researchers suggest empathy be a factor in medical school admissions

A cross-sectional study of over 16,000 osteopathic medical students found that high empathy scores are linked to better clinical competence and patient outcomes. The study established national norms for assessing medical students' empathy, which can help identify students who need additional education to boost their level of empathy.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateJul 25, 2019

Current guides for starting infants on solid food may lead to overfeeding

A computer-simulated study suggests that standard solid food feeding guides from hospitals and baby-formula makers may not provide accurate recommendations for infants. Following these guidelines can lead to overweight infants as early as 9-11 months old, with the Similac guide producing the healthiest results.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJul 25, 2019

The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology: Testosterone may significantly improve sexual function and sexual wellbeing in postmenopausal women

A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of testosterone treatment for women found significant improvements in sexual desire, function, and pleasure. Non-oral formulations appear to have fewer side effects compared to oral testosterone, with benefits including reduced concerns and distress about sex.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateJul 25, 2019

Clemson research suggests a practical use for regret, hindsight

A study by Robin Kowalski found that many people think about advice they would give their younger selves multiple times per week. This mental exercise can help individuals conceptualize their ideal self and overcome regret. The research also revealed that areas of education, self-worth, and relationships are commonly focused on when it...

SourceClemson University·JournalThe Journal of Social Psychology·DateJul 25, 2019