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Science News Archive December 2018 - Page 18


Page 18 of 33

Length of eye blinks might act as conversational cue

A new study published in PLOS ONE found that people perceive subtle differences in eye blinks during conversations, affecting response lengths and indicating a joint activity between speakers and listeners. The research suggests that even small movements like blinking can serve as nonverbal communication.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 12, 2018

What's behind smelly wine

Researchers found that polysulfanes decompose during wine storage, releasing hydrogen sulfide and causing the smell of sewage or rotten eggs. The study suggests that antioxidants like sulfur dioxide can help manage the release of stinky sulfur compounds in wine.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateDec 12, 2018

Putting a price on reputation

A study by University of Technology Sydney researchers found that a company's corporate reputation commands a premium of around 9% for its products. Consumers are willing to pay more for products with important features and a good brand reputation, but less so for novel features regardless of reputation.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalJournal of Marketing Management·DateDec 12, 2018

Rice plants that grow as clones from seed

Researchers at UC Davis have made a breakthrough in plant biology by discovering a way to produce crops as clones from seed. This process, known as apomixis, allows for the reproduction of high-yielding and disease-resistant crops without the need for expensive hybrid seeds. The discovery has significant implications for global food se...

Combining three treatment strategies may significantly improve melanoma treatment

A study combining three advanced treatments for malignant melanoma shows promising results in animal models, with the triple combination producing near-total eradication of tumors. The use of oncolytic viruses, MEK inhibitors and immune checkpoint blockers enhances therapeutic responses, offering new hope for patients with melanoma.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateDec 12, 2018

Higher risk of heart attack on Christmas Eve

A Swedish study found that the risk of heart attack peaks at around 10 pm on Christmas Eve, especially for older and sicker individuals due to heightened emotional stress. This risk is also higher during New Year's and Midsummer holidays, as well as Monday mornings.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalThe BMJ·DateDec 12, 2018

Your weight history may predict your heart failure risk

A study analyzing 6,000 people found that tracking a patient's weight history from young adulthood can provide valuable insights into their future risk of heart failure. The investigation showed that maintaining a normal weight over the lifespan is ideal, while obesity at specific ages significantly increases the risk of heart disease.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateDec 12, 2018

Scientists identify new minerals for carbon capture

Researchers have identified hydrotalcites as capable of capturing CO2 in mine tailings, potentially improving carbon sequestration beneath the surface. The study found that these minerals can trap CO2 deeper into the tailings than carbonate minerals could, offering a new approach to reducing atmospheric emissions.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalInternational Journal of Greenhouse Gas Control·DateDec 12, 2018

Does work stress increase cancer risk?

A study of over 280,000 people found a significant association between work stress and increased risk of colorectal and esophagus cancers. However, no link was observed for prostate, breast, or ovarian cancers, with the relationship varying by region.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateDec 12, 2018