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Science News Archive 2019 - Page 81


Page 81 of 486

Cumulative environmental exposures increase diabetes risk in rural populations

Researchers found that lower environmental quality in rural counties was associated with a higher prevalence of diabetes. In contrast, urban areas showed a stronger link between air and sociodemographic domains. The study's findings suggest a significant impact of cumulative environmental exposures on diabetes risk in rural populations.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalJournal of Diabetes Investigation·DateOct 30, 2019

Abrupt shifts in Arctic climate projected

Researchers from McGill University project abrupt changes in the Arctic climate and permafrost, potentially leading to increased wildfires. The study suggests a doubling of wildfire severity over one year in regions like the Northwestern Territories and Yukon.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Climate Change·DateOct 30, 2019

How are psychiatric disorders linked to infections during pregnancy?

Researchers found that severe infections in pregnant mothers can impair brain development, leading to psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders. The study showed immediate and long-lasting effects on neuronal cells, including impaired cortical GABAergic interneuron development.

The financial benefits of being bilingual

A new study suggests that bilingual individuals are less prone to emotional biases when making financial decisions, which could lead to better outcomes in negotiations and investments. The study found that thinking in a foreign language decreases sellers' attachment to their products, resulting in lower prices and improved interactions.

SourceSociety for Consumer Psychology·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateOct 30, 2019

Scientists find possible treatment for muscle contractures in childhood paralysis

A new study by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center suggests that the drug bortezomib may help re-balance disrupted muscle growth and prevent muscle contractures in children with brachial plexus injury or cerebral palsy. The treatment shows promise in preventing loss of elbow and shoulder motion and disrupting skeletal growth.

Where to install renewable energy in US to achieve greatest benefits

A new Harvard study identifies the Upper Midwest as ideal for wind turbines and the Great Lakes/Mid-Atlantic region for solar power to achieve maximum benefits. The research, funded by Harvard University's Climate Change Solutions Fund, provides a guide for policymakers, businesses, and utilities on where to deploy renewable energy.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateOct 29, 2019

Safeguarding our water supply

A novel membrane and chemical reduction process have been patented by University of Delaware researchers to remove perchlorate from drinking water. The technology has shown high efficiency in reducing perchlorate concentrations, making it a potential solution for mitigating human health risks associated with this contaminant.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of Environmental Engineering·DateOct 29, 2019

Study finds 'cluster of disadvantage' behind BAME psychosis rates

A study by Queen Mary University of London researchers found that excess psychosis diagnoses amongst Black and South Asian men in deprived urban areas may reflect a cluster of disadvantage rather than individual factors. The team identified four markers of vulnerability: drug and alcohol dependence, criminality and violence, risky or c...

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·DateOct 29, 2019

Researchers led by Georgia State develop noninvasive method to detect early-stage liver disease

Researchers at Georgia State University have developed a protein-based contrast agent that can detect early-stage liver diseases, including liver fibrosis, with high accuracy and sensitivity. The new method uses a lower dosage of contrast metal gadolinium, reducing the risk of metal toxicity and enabling earlier diagnosis and treatment.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 29, 2019

Ashes to concrete

Researchers at Drexel University have created a coal ash aggregate that helps concrete cure, reducing the time it takes for concrete to harden and improving its durability. The additive, called SPoRA, promotes a uniform hardening process from the inside out, providing a solution to concrete drying problems.

SourceDrexel University·JournalCement and Concrete Composites·DateOct 29, 2019

Ground-breaking work improves understanding of brain function

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding brain function by studying the role of lactate in memory formation and learning. The study, published in Progress in Neurobiology, used a novel technique to produce three-dimensional models of astrocytes, revealing their complex structure and metabolic coupling with neurons.

Pyschologists analyze language to categorize human goals

A team of researchers led by Ben Wilkowski analyzed goal-related words used by English speakers to categorize human goals. They identified four components: prominence (social status), inclusiveness (acceptance of diversity), negativity prevention (avoiding negative outcomes), and tradition (upholding cultural institutions).

SourceUniversity of Wyoming·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateOct 29, 2019

Intuitive in the virtual reality

Researchers developed an electronic sensor that can process both touchless and tactile stimuli, enabling seamless interaction in virtual reality scenarios. The sensor's flexibility allows it to register a clear shift from touchless to tactile interaction, allowing for selective control of physical and virtual objects.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 29, 2019

Intraoral endoscopic thyroidectomy leaves no scar

A new study compares two surgical approaches to endoscopic thyroid removal, finding no significant differences in outcomes between the oral vestibular approach and the breast approach. Both methods are safe and effective, with the oral vestibular approach offering a better cosmetic result due to its scarless nature.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques·DateOct 29, 2019

Do open relationships really work?

A team from the University of Rochester found that non-monogamous relationships succeed when all parties are comfortable with each other. Monogamous and consensual non-monogamous groups reported high levels of functioning in their relationships, while partially open and one-sided non-monogamous groups showed lower levels of functioning.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalThe Journal of Sex Research·DateOct 29, 2019