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Science News Archive 2018 - Page 47


Page 47 of 473

Neuroimaging study reveals 'hot spot' for cue-reactivity in substance-dependent population

A neuroimaging study reveals that the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) shows increased activity when patients are shown drug cues, indicating a potential target for addiction treatment. The study aims to develop a novel non-invasive therapy using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to modulate neural networks.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalTranslational Psychiatry·DateNov 20, 2018

Parental 'feeding styles' reflect children's genes

Research from King's College London and UCL found that parents' feeding practices are shaped by their child's natural body weight, which is influenced by genes. Parents of children with a higher genetic predisposition to weight tend to be more restrictive, while those of children with a lower predisposition are more pressuring.

SourceKing's College London·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateNov 20, 2018

How a crystal is solvated in water

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum used microscopic methods to observe the solvation process of a crystal in water. The team imaged individual molecules at extremely low temperatures, revealing the attachment of solvent molecules and the loss of molecular order.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 20, 2018

The final stage before a big bang?

A team of vulcanologists from ETH Zurich has found evidence suggesting the Phlegraean Fields are in the early stage of a new caldera cycle, which could lead to another massive eruption. The researchers used rock samples from previous eruptions to reconstruct the conditions in the crust and create a model of the cycle.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 20, 2018

The taming of the dog, cow, horse, pig and rabbit

A recent study by Earlham Institute sheds light on the genetic orchestra conductors behind domestication of dogs, cows, horses, pigs, and rabbits. By analyzing microRNAs in their brains, testicles, hearts, and kidneys, researchers discovered that some miRNAs have evolved more recently, playing a crucial role in emerging novel traits.

SourceEarlham Institute·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 20, 2018

Scientists identify new genetic causes linked to abnormal pregnancies and miscarriages

A team of scientists at McGill University Health Centre identified three genes responsible for recurrent molar pregnancies, a rare complication that occurs when a non-viable pregnancy with no embryo implants in the uterus. They discovered MEI1, TOP6BL/C11orf80, and REC114 mutations linked to genetic causes of fetal loss and miscarriages.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalThe American Journal of Human Genetics·DateNov 20, 2018

A study suggests that epigenetic treatments could trigger the development of aggressive tumours

A recent study published in Nature Cell Biology suggests that epigenetic treatments can alter the accumulation of mutations in tumors, potentially leading to more aggressive tumor growth. The researchers warn that these treatments should be used with caution and further studied before being used in clinical practice.

Get dressed!

Researchers develop novel method to realistically simulate dressing tasks using machine learning techniques, incorporating sense of touch to overcome challenges in cloth simulation. The approach enables single dressing sequences and a character controller that can successfully dress under various conditions.

Project receives additional $13 million to accelerate progress to redesign photosynthesis

The Realizing Increased Photosynthetic Efficiency (RIPE) project has received an additional $13 million to accelerate its progress in redesigning photosynthesis. The funding will be used to test model predictions in key crops and translate yield-boosting technologies more quickly, aiming to achieve a 50 percent yield increase.

Plant root hairs form outward due to shank hardening

Plant root hairs grow long by suppressing lateral cell expansion due to PI(3,5)P2 regulation. This allows for increased surface area absorption of water and nutrients from the soil. The discovery sheds light on plant cell morphogenesis and could lead to the development of more efficient nutrient-absorbing plants.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalNature Plants·DateNov 20, 2018

Diabetes patients with high deductible health plans experience delays in seeking care

Research found that individuals with diabetes who switched to high-deductible health plans experienced delays in seeking care for symptoms of blood vessel diseases, including cardiac chest pain and transient ischemic attacks. The study suggests that increased out-of-pocket costs lead to changes in healthcare behavior.

SourceHarvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 19, 2018

Hidden giants in forest soils

Researchers have discovered 16 novel giant viruses in a forest soil ecosystem, more than doubling the known giant virus diversity. These viruses were found using a non-standard approach that involved flow-sorting microbes into small pools, revealing a wealth of giant viruses previously overlooked.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 19, 2018