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Science News for March 6, 2019


Getting more mileage from microsatellites

Researchers used next-generation sequencing to identify additional DNA markers in the carob tree, increasing resolution for population genetics studies. This approach shows promise for analyzing species with limited genetic diversity, including those that underwent strong bottlenecks.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalApplications in Plant Sciences·DateMar 6, 2019

Does cognitive function affect oral health during aging?

Poorer cognitive function in older adults is associated with poorer oral health and a higher risk of tooth loss. A study of 4,416 UK adults found that those with lower cognitive function scores had a 39% higher odds of tooth loss compared to those with higher scores.

SourceWiley·JournalCommunity Dentistry And Oral Epidemiology·DateMar 6, 2019

Autism: Brain activity as a biomarker

Scientists discovered consistent brain activity patterns in people with autism that could be used to track treatment progress. The findings suggest that altering these patterns may help improve symptoms, but further studies are needed for confirmation.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMar 6, 2019

Eating the flu

A new study reveals that a diet rich in birds is the key factor driving influenza A virus exposure in wild African mammals. Herbivores showed low prevalence and diversity, while carnivores had the highest diversity and prevalence.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateMar 6, 2019

Vast record of past climate fluctuations now available thanks to laser imaging of shells

A new method using rapid laser imaging has expanded the number of analyzed shell records, allowing for greater accuracy and longer time periods in reconstructed records. This technique enables researchers to study human and ecological responses to past climate changes, gaining insights into future climate change impacts.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Geoanthropology·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 6, 2019

Statins linked to higher diabetes risk

Individuals taking statins may experience higher insulin levels and insulin resistance, leading to a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The analysis found a 38% increased risk among those who used statins for 15 years or more.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateMar 6, 2019

Bedtime protein for bigger gains? Here's the scoop

A study published in Frontiers in Nutrition found that consuming a casein shake just before overnight sleep increases muscle protein synthesis, leading to bigger squat and quad gains. This effect is thought to be due to increased total protein intake, not just the bedtime beverage.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Nutrition·DateMar 6, 2019

Impact of urbanization on wild bees underestimated

Wild bees experiencing widespread declines due to urbanization may be more male-dominated as females decline in numbers, impacting pollination and reproduction rates. This study suggests considering sex-specific differences in bee behavior when analyzing environmental change effects on populations.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 6, 2019

New surprises from Jupiter and Saturn

The latest data from Juno and Cassini spacecraft has challenged existing theories on planetary formation and behavior, revealing new insights into Jupiter and Saturn's magnetic fields and atmospheres. Surprisingly, the atmosphere is evenly mixed, contradicting conventional predictions.

How viruses outsmart their host cells

Scientists have deciphered the process by which viruses induce their hosts to transcribe viral genetic information, producing daughter viruses. The discovery sheds light on the 'viral exploitation' mechanism used by bacteriophages, such as lambda phage, and may contribute to the development of new antibacterial drugs.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMar 6, 2019

Social anxiety disorder may increase risk of alcoholism

Research found social anxiety disorder had strongest association with alcoholism and predicted it over other anxiety disorders. Individuals with social anxiety were at higher risk of developing later alcoholism compared to those with other anxiety disorders.

SourceWiley·JournalDepression and Anxiety·DateMar 6, 2019

Deep learning merges advantages of holography and bright-field microscopy for 3D imaging

Researchers developed Bright-field Holography to overcome limitations of holographic 3D imaging. The method combines the image contrast advantage of bright-field microscopy with the snapshot volumetric imaging capability of holography, allowing for rapid creation of images equivalent to those from a bright-field microscope.

AI study of risk factors in type 1 diabetes

A recent AI study identified high long-term blood sugar levels, kidney dysfunction, and excess bad cholesterol as the strongest predictors of cardiovascular disease and death in type 1 diabetes patients. The study also found that keeping these risk factors under control can lead to lower risks of cardiovascular events.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalCirculation·DateMar 6, 2019

Strategies developed to include more racial and ethnic minorities in clinical trials

A study recommends innovative strategies to address underrepresentation of racial and ethnic minorities in clinical trials, highlighting the need for tailored approaches. The study identifies key components such as strategic engagement with providers, community leader engagement, and dedicated input from minority patients and caregiver...

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Oncology Practice·DateMar 6, 2019

Breast milk as drug-delivery device

Scientists are working on modifying human breast milk cells to produce specific proteins, such as vaccines, for premature babies. These engineered cells could potentially address birth defects, provide necessary proteins, or even treat certain diseases.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 6, 2019

States with strict gun laws see more homicides when they border states with lax ones

A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine reveals that states with strict gun laws experience higher homicide rates when neighboring states have more lenient laws. The research suggests that gun trafficking across state lines plays a significant role in this relationship.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery·DateMar 6, 2019

Elegant interplay of coloration strategies is discovered in squid's smart skin

Researchers from Northeastern University and the Marine Biological Laboratory discovered that squid chromatophores use both pigmentary and structural coloration to create dynamic effects. This breakthrough opens up new opportunities for biologists and chemists to better understand cephalopod biology and develop wearable devices or coat...

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 6, 2019

Resistance training may help prevent type 2 diabetes

A randomized controlled trial found that resistance training and aerobic training plus resistance training significantly reduced the incidence of type 2 diabetes. The study showed that these exercise programs can be as effective as isolated aerobic training in preventing overt type 2 diabetes.

SourceWiley·JournalDiabetes/Metabolism Research and Reviews·DateMar 6, 2019

Binding with consequences

Researchers discovered a mechanism by which bacteria like Burkholderia ambifaria activate white blood cells and attack the immune system. The study found that lectin BambL binds to carbohydrate residues on the surface of B cells, triggering an immune response in immunocompromised hosts.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalScience Signaling·DateMar 6, 2019

Eating healthy on a limited budget is possible

A new study published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that serving healthy meals to a family of four can be done for $25 per day, consistent with the USDA low-income cost of food meal plan. The study used menu planning and access to bulk supermarkets to achieve this cost.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateMar 6, 2019