The Effects of Noise on Wildlife

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Researchers are doing a three year study where they're using cameras and microphones to assess the impacts on the behaviour. So things like birdsong and how the animals are reacting do they look I guess startled or what's their sort of reaction to these very loud noises? And do they suggest any things that could be done to maybe mitigate these effects? Obviously we don't know what they're going to find yet but what have they put forward? so they've got funding for three years but they're actually going to try and do this for more than a decade.

In this episode:

00:46 An AI that predicts gene interactions

Mapping the network of genes that control cellular processes can be difficult to do when gene-expression data is sparse, such as in rare diseases or those affecting tissues that are hard to clinically sample. To overcome this, a team has developed an artificial intelligence system trained on a large, general dataset, and used it to make predictions about gene interactions in data-limited situations. As a test-case they look at the heart condition cardiomyopathy, and show that the system can identify potential interactions that could represent new therapeutic targets.

Research article: Theodoris et al.

09:08 Research Highlights

Microbes that can break down persistent ‘forever chemicals’, and why intermolecular distances are the key to keeping gummy sweets chewy.

Research Highlight: Microbes take the ‘forever’ out of ‘forever chemicals’

Research Highlight: Better gummy sweets are within reach, thanks to physics

12:06 Briefing Chat

We discuss some highlights from the Nature Briefing. This time, how chronic stress can inflame the gut, and understanding how rocket launches might impact wildlife.

Nature News: Chronic stress can inflame the gut — now scientists know why

Nature News: Does the roar of rocket launches harm wildlife? These scientists seek answers

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