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Science News Archive 2019 - Page 376


Page 376 of 486

Trained musicians perform better -- at paying attention

A study published in Heliyon found that trained musicians exhibit greater executive control of attention than non-musicians, with improved performance linked to increased years of training. This suggests that musical training can enhance cognitive abilities beyond music-specific skills.

SourceElsevier·JournalHeliyon·DateMar 26, 2019

Compared to sustained inflations for extremely premature infants, standard treatment prevails

A large multicenter trial found that standard intermittent positive pressure ventilation did not reduce the risk of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) or death at 36 weeks postmenstrual age for extremely preterm infants. In contrast, sustained inflations did not appear beneficial in reducing BPD risk and mortality in this vulnerable popu...

Study suggests trees are crucial to the future of our cities

A recent study suggests that trees are essential for mitigating the urban heat island effect, with 40% canopy cover required to trigger significant cooling effects. The research found that even small increases in tree density can lead to substantial reductions in temperatures, making tree planting a key strategy for city planners.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 25, 2019

Study explores why 'progressive teetotalers' may emerge from college engineering programs

A recent study by the University of Kansas researcher Margaret Kelley found that first-year engineering students who hold progressive attitudes, including those about gender equity, are more likely to drink less. The researchers argue that this behavior becomes in conjunction with their more progressive attitudes on women in the profes...

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalSociological Quarterly·DateMar 25, 2019

Engineering cellular function without living cells

Researchers at EPFL's LBNC have developed a quantitative, replicable method for studying gene expression using a cell-free system in combination with high-throughput microfluidic devices. This approach allows them to build synthetic biological logic gates that can be used to modify cellular functions and introduce new therapeutic purpo...

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 25, 2019

Traffic control of cells

Scientists have created a hydrogel matrix whose stiffness can be reversibly tuned using light, enabling the investigation of how cells respond to dynamic changes in their environment. The matrix has potential applications in cancer immunotherapy and understanding cell migration patterns.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 25, 2019

Hearing loss before 50 may mean higher risk of drug and alcohol issues

A national study reveals that young and middle-aged adults with hearing loss are twice as likely to misused prescription opioids and other substances compared to their hearing peers. Health care providers may need to take special care when treating pain and mental health conditions in deaf and hard-of-hearing patients.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMar 25, 2019

Can you 'catch' cancer?

Research suggests that parasitic worms cause majority of cancers in poor countries due to chronic inflammation and toxic egg excretions. However, some species of helminths, like the 'hyper tapeworm', inhibit cancer growth and may even enhance host's immune response to tumors.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Medicine·DateMar 25, 2019

How tree diversity affects invasive forest pests

A broad-scale study found a significant relationship between tree diversity and nonnative pest invasions. High tree diversity reduces pest invasions by creating ecological niches that make it harder for pests to find resources, while low diversity increases the risk of invasion. The study's results have important implications for fores...

SourceUSDA Forest Service ‑ Southern Research Station·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 25, 2019

How watching TV and movies helps people with attachment issues

Research suggests that people with attachment issues engage more with stories, such as movies and TV shows, to deal with relationship insecurities. They find a 'safe space' to understand their problems or imagine a functional relationship without real-life complications. This vicarious living can help them expand their social experiences.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateMar 25, 2019