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Science News Archive April 2016 - Page 18


Page 18 of 39

Is my brand image green or healthy? No need for costly surveys, just ask Twitter!

Researchers from Illinois Institute of Technology analyzed over 200 brands on Twitter, finding that fans of eco-friendly, luxury, and nutrition brands tend to follow environmentally focused accounts, resulting in a positive brand image. This approach offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional surveys.

Could global warming's top culprit help crops?

A new study suggests that increased carbon dioxide levels could help mitigate the negative impacts of rising temperatures on crop yields, particularly in regions with suitable conditions. The research projects a 10% increase in average yields of certain crops, while water consumption would decrease by a corresponding amount.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalNature Climate Change·DateApr 18, 2016

Shining light on brain tumors

Researchers have developed a method that uses laser pulses to identify brain tumors without labeling or staining, providing histological detail comparable to conventional techniques. The technique allows for fast and accurate diagnosis in the operating room, potentially enabling real-time tumor detection before surgery.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateApr 18, 2016

Exposure to violence during pregnancy increases risk of prematurity and low birthweight

Exposure to violence during pregnancy may increase the risk of prematurity and low birthweight. A recent study by Queen Mary University of London and the University of Leicester found that mothers exposed to homicides had newborns with lower birthweights and higher rates of prematurity, particularly in the first trimester.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalJournal of Development Economics·DateApr 18, 2016

Precision prevention of colorectal cancer

Researchers developed a risk prediction model integrating 19 environmental and lifestyle risk factors with 64 common genetic risk factors to identify individuals at high risk of developing colorectal cancer. The model aims to improve colonoscopies for those at higher risk, while avoiding unnecessary procedures for low-risk individuals.

Demand for radiotherapy will rise substantially over next 10 years

The demand for radiotherapy is expected to increase by 16% between 2012 and 2025, with prostate cancer cases projected to rise by 24%. This is due to an aging population in Europe, with four million new cancer patients expected in 2025. The study's authors aim to help policymakers plan for increased radiotherapy services.

SourceEuropean Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology (ESTRO)·JournalRadiotherapy and Oncology·DateApr 18, 2016

All ants on deck

Researchers found that ants form rafts with different members occupying specific positions based on experience, demonstrating collective memory and cooperation. This phenomenon has implications for our understanding of social insects and potential applications in robotics and medicine.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalThe Science of Nature·DateApr 18, 2016

RNA in stop-motion

Researchers from SISSA have developed a novel technique to visualize RNA dynamics using stop-motion animation, based on a huge international database of crystallographic images. This approach allows for the creation of coherent sequences of conformations, providing valuable insights into molecular transitions and dynamics.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateApr 18, 2016

Medicaid expansion significantly boosts insurance coverage among low-income adults

Researchers found significant increases in health insurance coverage, quality of coverage, and diagnoses for chronic health conditions among low-income adults in states that expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. The study's findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and residents in states with ACA Medicaid expansions.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateApr 18, 2016

Which trees face death in drought?

Researchers found three tree physiological traits significantly predict drought mortality, related to hydraulics. Trees with lower hydraulic conductivity and safety margins are more susceptible to embolism and death. This study can help forecast tree deaths in drought and inform climate change mitigation strategies.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 18, 2016