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Science News Archive 2019 - Page 327


Page 327 of 486

Wax helps plants to survive in the desert

Researchers have discovered that desert plants like the colocynth use a special wax to prevent their leaves from drying out in extreme heat. This wax reduces water permeability, enabling plants to conserve water and survive. In contrast, date palms have a different type of wax that helps them thrive in hot conditions.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalJournal of Experimental Botany·DateApr 29, 2019

Tumor-selective angiotensin blockers may improve response to cancer immunotherapy

Researchers found that combining tumor-selective angiotensin blockers with immune checkpoint blockers significantly improves breast cancer treatment in mouse models. The combination treatment normalizes the tumor microenvironment, inducing changes in gene expression and activating immunosupportive pathways.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 29, 2019

Federal research significant in environmental rule-making

Stakeholders rely on federal government-sponsored research to form opinions on hydraulic fracturing, viewing it as more neutral and credible. The study highlights the importance of federal research in reducing polarization and shaping the regulatory landscape.

SourcePenn State·JournalAnnals of the American Association of Geographers·DateApr 29, 2019

WHO study confirms breastfeeding protects against child obesity, however levels of breastfeeding across Europe are well off-target

Research from WHO Europe found that babies who were never or only partially breastfed have a higher risk of becoming obese as children compared to exclusively breastfed babies. The study suggests that promoting breastfeeding practices can help prevent childhood obesity in Europe, but adoption rates are still below global recommendations.

New WHO research reveals wide gradient of severe child obesity across Europe, with southern Europe having the highest levels

The study found a significant variation in the prevalence of severe child obesity across European countries, with Southern Europe showing the highest rates. Severe obesity is associated with worse health outcomes and limited treatment options, highlighting the need for effective policy measures to prevent obesity.

The search for nothing at all

A team at Colorado State University has developed a new technique called barium tagging, which could help scientists pinpoint single-atom byproducts of double-beta decay. This breakthrough aims to solve longstanding mysteries about neutrinos and their properties.

SourceColorado State University·JournalNature·DateApr 29, 2019

How the bumble bee got its stripes

Researchers have identified a key gene driving color differences in bumble bee species, revealing the genetic basis of mimicry and evolutionary adaptations. The study found that a specific regulatory region influences Abdominal-B gene expression, resulting in unique color patterns.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 29, 2019

Urine test could prevent cervical cancer

Researchers at University of Manchester found urine testing to be just as effective as the cervical smear in detecting high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) that causes cervical cancer. The study suggests a urine test could increase participation rates for cervical cancer screening among younger women.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalBMJ Open·DateApr 29, 2019

Oral cancer detection by dentists is significantly on the rise

A significant rise in oral cancer and pre-cancerous lesion detection by dentists in Ontario is reported, with a nearly doubling of cancers detected between 2005 and 2015. The study suggests that comprehensive training and continuing education programs for oral health professionals may be behind the dramatic increase in detection rates.

SourceUniversity of Toronto - Faculty of Dentistry·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateApr 29, 2019

A simple solution to a complex problem

A team of scientists at the University of Freiburg has discovered a transport protein in mycobacteria responsible for absorbing L-arabinofuranose, a crucial nutrient. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new antibiotics and treatments for diseases like tuberculosis.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalCell Chemical Biology·DateApr 29, 2019

Demand growing for CV specialists trained to treat heart disease in cancer patients

The number of cardiologists trained in cardio-oncology is not meeting the growing needs of cancer survivors, who are aging and developing co-morbid cardiovascular disease. Limited training programs and resources are emerging to address this need, highlighting the importance of collaboration between cardiologists and oncologists.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 29, 2019

Suicide rates spike nationally among youth after '13 Reasons Why' release

A recent study found a significant increase in youth suicide deaths following the release of '13 Reasons Why,' highlighting the need for responsible reporting on suicide. The series' portrayal of suicidal behavior has been criticized for potentially promoting simplistic explanations and glorifying the decedent.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateApr 29, 2019

Release of '13 Reasons Why' associated with increase in youth suicide rates

A NIH-supported study found that the release of "13 Reasons Why" was associated with a significant increase in US youth suicide rates, particularly among young males. The show's portrayal of suicide was linked to an estimated 195 additional suicide deaths between April and December 2017.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateApr 29, 2019

Are coffee farms for the birds? Yes and no

Research reveals coffee plantations host nearly as many bird species as forests, with shaded areas providing double the number of forest specialist birds. However, overall bird populations decline, highlighting the need for large primary forest reserves for conservation.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 29, 2019

The last chance for Madagascar's biodiversity

A team of scientists has identified five priority measures for Madagascar's new government to prevent species and habitats being lost forever. Investing in protected areas and local community tenure over natural resources are key strategies to address the country's biodiversity crisis.

SourceBangor University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateApr 29, 2019