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Science News Archive 2018 - Page 349


Page 349 of 473

Birds migrate away from diseases

Researchers at Lund University found that migratory birds have a less variable immune system than sedentary birds, possibly due to the reduced diversity of pathogens in their breeding grounds. This adaptation could provide a survival advantage, as dealing with multiple pathogens is often difficult for birds when they first encounter them.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateApr 10, 2018

Bugs, microbes and death can inform the living

A study from Michigan State University reveals the postmortem microbiome provides crucial insights into public health, with consistent patterns regardless of factors like sex or ethnicity. The research also suggests that the microbiome can be used to assess health conditions, such as heart disease, in living populations.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 10, 2018

Weight loss is an important predictor of cancer

Research analysis found unintended weight loss to be the second-highest risk factor for some forms of cancer. The study of 11.5 million patients revealed significant associations with colorectal, lung, pancreatic, and renal cancers, emphasizing the need for streamlined services to investigate non-specific symptoms like weight loss.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBritish Journal of General Practice·DateApr 10, 2018

School-based yoga can help children better manage stress and anxiety

A new study published in Psychology Research and Behavior Management found that school-based yoga can help children better manage stress and anxiety. Third-graders who participated in small group yoga/mindfulness activities for eight weeks showed improved psychosocial and emotional quality of life scores compared to their peers who rec...

SourceTulane University·JournalPsychology Research and Behavior Management·DateApr 10, 2018

Deciphering the 'mosaic' of the brain

Researchers have found that nitric oxide regulates neuron function by modulating a signalling step at the synapse, changing the position of the complexin protein within a synapse. This regulation can help understand neurological conditions and potentially lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalPLOS Biology·DateApr 10, 2018

Review examines everything we know about Internet gaming disorder

Internet gaming disorder has a complex background of personal, familial, and environmental factors that increase risk for certain individuals. The review notes the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) is a good starting point for diagnosing IGD.

SourceWiley·JournalDevelopmental Medicine & Child Neurology·DateApr 10, 2018

How cheetahs outsmart lions and hyenas

A new study reveals that cheetahs modify their eating strategies depending on the presence of top predators like lions and hyenas. Mothers with cubs prioritize vigilance over speed, while single females and males focus on quick consumption to avoid prey theft.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateApr 10, 2018

Thin engineered material perfectly redirects and reflects sound

Researchers at Duke University have designed a thin material that can control sound waves with almost perfect efficiency, revolutionizing the manipulation of acoustic waves. The device uses a class of materials called metamaterials to redirect and reflect sound waves, offering significant improvements over previous devices.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 10, 2018

Digital penicillin production

Researchers at TU Wien have created a comprehensive mathematical model that accurately replicates the complex growth behavior of penicillin-producing organisms. This model is now helping Sandoz GmbH to optimize its production process, ensuring optimum quality by adjusting parameters such as nutrient supply in real-time.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalChemical Engineering Science·DateApr 10, 2018

Optimized perception in the twilight zone

Research at Goethe University Frankfurt reveals that the human brain prepares for dawn and dusk by reducing resting activity in the visual cortex, allowing it to process weak visual stimuli more effectively during these times. This mechanism may have provided an evolutionary advantage in the pre-industrial era.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 10, 2018

Study says charisma trumped narcissism for voters in 2016 US presidential election

A new study by Florida Atlantic University researchers suggests that perceived charisma can balance out the negative effects of a narcissistic personality on voters' perceptions of leaders. The study found that charisma and values alignment contributed to voter choice, while media coverage and social media amplify familiarity with cand...

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalPersonality and Individual Differences·DateApr 10, 2018