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Science News Archive 2019 - Page 324


Page 324 of 486

Lure of the 'loot box' looks a lot like gambling

A new study by University of British Columbia researchers found a correlation between excessive engagement with loot boxes and measures of problem gambling, but not problem video gaming. Loot box use was associated with risky gambling behaviours, suggesting that the feature may be contributing to gambling-like problems in gamers.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalAddictive Behaviors·DateMay 1, 2019

New clues to coastal erosion

A new physical mechanism erodes seabed sediment at depths up to 20 meters, adding nutrients stirred by breaking surface waves. This process complements littoral drift and has significant implications for coastal sediment management practices like dredging.

SourceFlinders University·JournalOcean Dynamics·DateMay 1, 2019

A new vision for neuroscience

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a new tool that records and controls neural activity in real-time using genetically encoded voltage indicators. This breakthrough enables the study of complex behaviors and neural interactions with unprecedented clarity.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateMay 1, 2019

Shrink films get a grip (video)

Researchers repurposed shrink films to make strong grippers that can encapsulate materials or be incorporated into soft robotics. The grippers were made by patterned black ink onto polystyrene sheets, which then wrapped around objects to grip them.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Polymer Materials·DateMay 1, 2019

The sicker the better

Research found that nematode-infected horned passalus beetles process wood 15% faster than uninfected ones, leading to increased decomposition rates. The parasites are beneficial to the forest ecosystem, enabling the beetles to provide a more effective service

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalBiology Letters·DateMay 1, 2019

A promising new treatment for infants with Noonan syndrome

Researchers at Université de Montréal found that MEK inhibitor trametinib can reverse hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and valvular obstruction in patients with RIT1-associated NS. Dramatic improvement was seen in two infants treated with the drug, suggesting a new treatment option for life-threatening heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 30, 2019

Keto diet has potential in military, researchers say

A new study published in Military Medicine found that a ketogenic diet can lead to significant weight loss and improvements in insulin sensitivity among military personnel. Participants on the keto diet lost an average of 17 pounds and reduced their body fat by 5%, while those on a normal diet experienced no such changes.

SourceOhio State University·JournalMilitary Medicine·DateApr 30, 2019

Researchers identify causes and mechanisms of polycystic ovary syndrome using family-based genetic analysis

A study using family-based genetic analysis has identified the DENND1A gene as playing a major role in PCOS, enabling personalized medicine approaches and better disease prediction. The findings suggest that rare genetic variants in this gene contribute to the disorder's distinctive hormonal profile.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 30, 2019