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Science News Archive May 2018 - Page 35


Page 35 of 44

Invisible structures exposed!

Researchers used AI and image analysis to reconstruct the structure of plants with hidden branch structures, including those under leaves. The new technology will help in future cultivation techniques such as detailed daily management and forecasting plant growth.

Thank brain for gratitude

Researchers discovered a brain network that gives rise to feelings of gratitude, identifying the medial prefrontal cortex and perigenual anterior cingulate cortex (pgACC) as key regions. These areas process relevant social information and integrate it into complex emotions, such as gratitude.

Night shift work and human health

Research suggests that night shift work can disrupt human circadian rhythms, leading to gene expression changes and immune system dysregulation. The study's findings highlight the potential risks of long-term night shift work on human health, particularly in relation to medical disorders such as diabetes and cancer.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 7, 2018

Social context matters in spread of disease

Researchers found that the sex composition and mating dynamics of a fruit fly community significantly impact disease transmission rates. Males faced a greater risk of infection when outnumbered by females, highlighting the importance of social context in disease spread.

SourceRice University·JournalBehavioral Ecology·DateMay 7, 2018

New insights into blood vessel growth

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt found that single cells in the innermost layer of blood vessels proliferate after injury and contribute to the formation of new vessels. This process, known as clonal expansion, is thought to play a significant role in tissue damage repair, such as in diabetes or heart attacks.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalCirculation Research·DateMay 7, 2018

Global tourism carbon footprint quantified in world first

A comprehensive study by the University of Sydney reveals that global tourism is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, with small islands and luxury travel being key drivers. The research estimates that tourism-related emissions are four times greater than previous estimates and are growing faster than international trade.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Climate Change·DateMay 7, 2018

A new way to watch brain activity in action

New technology tracks brain cell interactions in mice, shedding light on neuronal activity and potential insights into brain disorders such as autism and schizophrenia. The device captures three-dimensional images of neurons flashing on and off as they communicate with each other.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature Methods·DateMay 7, 2018

Alligators on the beach? Killer whales in rivers? Get used to it

Recent studies suggest that large predators such as alligators, sea otters, and mountain lions are re-colonizing ecosystems they once occupied due to conservation. This challenges the long-held assumption that these species are habitat specialists. As populations recover, these species are adapting to new habitats with surprising ease,...

SourceDuke University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 7, 2018

Preclinical M.D. Anderson study suggests ARID1a may be useful biomarker for immunotherapy

Researchers identified a link between ARID1a mutations and mismatch repair deficiency, which can render tumors susceptible to immune checkpoint blockade therapies. The study found that tumors with ARID1a mutations exhibited increased sensitivity to anti-PD-1 therapy, suggesting potential benefits for patients with these mutations.

Women see through flashy cars and bling

A study published in Evolutionary Psychological Science found that women prioritize practical qualities over flashy displays of wealth when evaluating potential partners. Men who conspicuously display their wealth are perceived as less committed to long-term relationships and more interested in short-term sex.

SourceSpringer·JournalEvolutionary Psychological Science·DateMay 7, 2018

Reflecting on possessions can curb people's impulse buying

A study by Rice University found that reflecting on personal possessions can reduce impulse buying by lowering willingness to pay for new products. The researchers discovered that people who reflected on using their possessions recently were less likely to buy impulsively and expressed a lower willingness to pay for new items.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateMay 7, 2018

Deadly duet

Researchers at TUM have deciphered the mechanism of action for a class of pore-forming bacterial toxins. This breakthrough could lead to new substances that inhibit toxin interaction and prevent fatal cell damage.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 7, 2018

New CRISPR technology 'knocks out' yeast genes with single-point precision

Researchers have developed a novel CRISPR-Cas9 technology that enables precise editing of any gene in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae by deleting single nucleotide changes. This allows for individual gene studies and optimization of genome engineering, potentially increasing productivity in industries such as ethanol production.

Higher risks associated with vaginal birth after cesarean, although absolute risk small

Researchers found that attempted VBAC is linked to higher relative rates of severe adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes compared to elective repeat cesarean delivery. This is particularly concerning for women with a history of single previous cesarean section, where predicting successful VBAC can be challenging.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 7, 2018