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Science News Archive 2019 - Page 64


Page 64 of 486

Each mouse is different

Researchers create algorithm to identify stable traits that capture mouse behavior, revealing unique individual characteristics and genetic basis. The method has potential to advance knowledge of mouse personality and its relation to mental health and disease.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateNov 11, 2019

Gold mining critically impairs water quality in rivers across Peruvian biodiversity hotspot

Research reveals artisanal gold mining is altering water clarity and dynamics in the Madre de Dios River watershed, causing increased sediment levels that contain mercury and other contaminants. This has severe impacts on fish populations and other aquatic life, disrupting natural seasonal cycles and habitat of endangered species.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2019

Project to answer last wishes spreads successfully

A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found a program that fulfils end-of-life wishes can ease bereavement by encouraging conversations about the patient's identity. The project, which costs around $5 per wish, has been successful at several hospital intensive care unit sites.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 11, 2019

Men who receive home care from spouse more likely to feel burdensome than women

A new study by University of Michigan researchers found that men who receive caregiving from their spouses are more prone to feeling guilty and depressed due to negative spousal exchanges. In contrast, wives in caregiving relationships show less susceptibility to these effects, suggesting a difference in gender dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateNov 11, 2019

Salmonella -- how the body fights back

Scientists discovered that blood stem cells acquire energy from bone marrow support cells in response to salmonella infection, enabling them to produce millions of bacteria-fighting white blood cells. This discovery could lead to new approaches to treating people with salmonella and other bacterial illnesses.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2019

Forecasting dengue: Challenges and a way forward

A team of scientists has developed new ways to forecast dengue infections by combining disease and climate data. The project aimed to predict maximum weekly cases, the week of peak cases, and total season cases, but models still struggle to accurately predict epidemics.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2019

Study reveals how two strains of one bacterium combine to cause flesh-eating infection

A new study reveals that genetic variations in a single species of bacteria can amplify infection, making it more dangerous than either strain alone. The researchers discovered that when the two strains work together, one produces a toxin that breaks down muscle tissue and enables the other to infect organs.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2019

Oxygen deficiency rewires mitochondria

Researchers have discovered that mitochondria undergo reprogramming under low oxygen conditions, a process that could provide new therapeutic targets for pancreatic cancer. This reprogramming enables cancer cells to adapt to energy scarcity by switching to glycolysis, allowing them to continue growing despite limited nutrients and oxygen.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateNov 11, 2019

Drug discount cards could actually cost patients more

A new study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that brand-name drug discount cards lead to higher health care spending in Canada, increasing private insurer costs by 46% and public insurer costs by 1.3%. Despite offering some savings, these cards financially disadvantage patients who fill prescriptions with them.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 11, 2019

Teaching preschool caregivers healthy behaviors may promote healthier habits in high-risk groups

A study in a multi-ethnic community found that teaching young adults healthy behaviors and showing them ultrasound images of plaque in their arteries improved their cardiovascular health. The FAMILIA Project showed significant benefits for caregivers who strictly adhered to simple education plans, reducing risk factors for heart disease.

Heart disease and cancer risk may be linked

A new study reveals that people with cardiovascular disease are at higher risk of developing cancer, while those with more risk factors for heart disease are also more likely to develop cancer. Lifestyle habits that reduce heart disease risk, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, may also help prevent some cancers.

Injectable, flexible electrode could replace rigid nerve-stimulating implants

Researchers have developed an injectable, flexible electrode that can reduce the cost of neuromodulation therapy, increase its reliability and make it less invasive. The 'injectrode' uses a liquid that cures in the body to create a wired contact, allowing for more elasticity and flexibility compared to traditional rigid implants.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalAdvanced Healthcare Materials·DateNov 11, 2019

Citizen responder CPR and defibrillation programs may improve survival and outcomes from cardiac arrests that occur at home

A study in Denmark found that citizen responders can arrive before emergency medical services in 40% of residential cardiac arrests and perform defibrillation in nearly 50% of cases. This preliminary research suggests citizen responder programs have the potential to increase bystander defibrillation, leading to improved survival rates.