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Science News Archive April 2019 - Page 3


Page 3 of 44

Chatterbox parents may boost tots' intelligence

A new study by the University of York found that young children who hear a large amount of adult speech tend to have better cognitive skills. The researchers also discovered that high-quality adult speech can benefit children's linguistic development and positive parenting styles can reduce restless behavior.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateApr 30, 2019

Study: Health care providers split on who should prescribe HIV prevention drug

A new study by University at Buffalo researchers found that health care providers are divided on who should prescribe PrEP, with some arguing primary care physicians should take the lead. Meanwhile, pharmacy students showed a positive attitude towards PrEP, with 89% agreeing it can be a cost-effective tool to prevent HIV infection.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care·DateApr 30, 2019

Darwin can help your doctor

A team of scientists, led by microbiologist Marjon de Vos, conducted a review to explore the application of evolutionary theory in clinical microbiology. By analyzing microbial communities and genetic data, they identified potential solutions for treating cystic fibrosis patients and limiting the spread of antibiotic resistance.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateApr 29, 2019

Study suggests no direct link between drinking sugar sweetened drinks and higher energy consumption or BMI in children

A nationally representative survey of UK children aged 4-10 years found no strong correlation between drinking sugar sweetened beverages and higher energy consumption or BMI. The study suggests that relying on a single-nutrient approach, such as a 'sugar tax', may not be effective in tackling childhood obesity.

Alcohol ads in sport fuel drinking culture

A new international study by Monash University and Parisien Laboratory of Social Psychology found a positive link between alcohol sponsorship and attitudes, as well as exposure to specific brands. The research suggests that incidental exposure to alcohol marketing messages influences participants' drinking attitudes.

SourceMonash University·JournalDrug and Alcohol Review·DateApr 29, 2019

Brain area tied to emotions is larger in vets, service members with mild TBI and PTSD

A new study found that veterans and active-duty service members with combat-related PTSD and mild traumatic brain injury had larger amygdalas, a key region in processing emotions, compared to those with only brain injuries. The findings suggest a potential link between amygdala size and the development of PTSD symptoms.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateApr 29, 2019

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