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Science News Archive 2019 - Page 8


Page 8 of 486

Addressing committed emissions in both US and China requires carbon capture and storage

The US and China need to deploy carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology to reduce committed emissions, which threaten the 1.5°C climate target. CCS retrofits are essential for deep decarbonization in both countries, but current high costs require government policies to incentivize deployment.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 19, 2019

How can healthcare achieve real technology driven transformation?

The Journal Healthcare Transformation: Artificial Intelligence, Automation, and Robotics explores the challenges and opportunities for integrating technology into consumer healthcare. A recent article found that five telemedicine companies provided nearly half of telemental health visits, highlighting the need for coordinated care.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalHealthcare Transformation·DateDec 19, 2019

Reducing mouse allergens may improve lung growth in asthmatic children

A new study suggests that lowering exposure to mouse allergens can lead to improved lung growth in asthmatic children living in low-income neighborhoods. The research found a strong association between mouse allergen exposure and lung function growth, with potential implications for long-term lung health and even longevity.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateDec 19, 2019

Mathematical models provide a snapshot of the human gut microbial community

The study uses mathematical models to predict metabolites generated by microbial species within the gut, revealing a four-level trophic organization. The findings suggest that species composition changes along the gut, with bacteria near the end forming the lowest trophic level.

Tracking thermodynamic fundamentals

Researchers at Kiel University successfully measured entropy in complex plasmas using video microscopy and laser technology. They found that the thermodynamic fundamentals are fulfilled, leading to new insights into strongly coupled systems.

SourceKiel University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 18, 2019

Reflecting on the year in chemistry

The American Chemical Society's Year in Chemistry 2019 special issue features top research trends, including advances in machine-learning, microplastics, and 3-D printing. Experts predict further AI advancements and greener processes for making nitrogen-based compounds and materials in 2020.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateDec 18, 2019

When cells cycle fast, cancer gets a jumpstart

Researchers at Yale University found that cancer-causing gene mutations can cause rapid cell division, leading to malignant cancer traits. In one form of blood cancer, normal cells with these mutations can remain healthy unless they divide quickly, suggesting a new mechanism for cancer development.

SourceYale University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 2019

Submarine cables: billions of potential seismic sensors!

Scientists have successfully detected seismic waves using submarine telecommunications cables, which can also detect earthquakes, swell, and underwater noise. The researchers deployed a 41 km-long cable to retrieve data from an underwater observatory, converting it into over 6000 seismic sensors.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 18, 2019

Season of birth may be linked to risk of heart death

A large US study found that women born in the spring and summer had a slight but significant increase in cardiovascular death compared to those born in autumn. The researchers suggest that seasonal fluctuations in diet, air pollution levels, and sunlight may contribute to these differences.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 18, 2019

Perpetual predator-prey population cycles

Experiments by McGill University and University of Oldenburg confirm regular oscillations in predator-prey populations can persist without complete depletion of prey resources. The study found that less efficient predators can lead to prey recovery, potentially creating endless cycles.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature·DateDec 18, 2019

Booze on the brain

Researchers at Santa Clara University identified a specific brain pathway that helps regulate drinking behavior, which may be disrupted in individuals with alcohol use disorder. The study suggests that this pathway's dysfunction could contribute to the development of compulsive drinking habits.

SourceSanta Clara University·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateDec 18, 2019

Comparing heirloom and modern wheat effects on gut health

Researchers found that a popular modern variety of wheat does not impair gastrointestinal health in mice compared to heirloom wheat. Heirloom wheat slightly reduced levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-17 and improved gut barrier function, suggesting that modern wheat varieties may be healthier for healthy individuals.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateDec 18, 2019

Parental coaching adolescents through peer stress

A study by University of Illinois researchers reveals that mothers' coaching styles can impact adolescent peer adjustment. Low reactive youth benefited from active, engaged coping strategies, whereas high reactive kids fared better with self-reliant suggestions. This suggests a personalized approach to parenting is necessary to address...

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalJournal of Applied Developmental Psychology·DateDec 18, 2019