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Science News Archive March 2011 - Page 24


Page 24 of 28

Happy hour linked to pub violence

A Cardiff University study found a strong link between happy hour-style drinking promotions and pub violence in the UK. The research suggests that premises with aggressive pricing strategies and lax staff monitoring are more likely to experience high levels of violence.

SourceCardiff University·JournalAlcohol and Alcoholism·DateMar 4, 2011

Environmental impact of animal waste

Researchers found that anaerobic lagoons in North and South Carolina have high levels of nitrogen-cycling genes but low denitrification enzyme activity, leading to acidification and eutrophication of surrounding ecosystems. The study highlights the need for improved waste management practices to minimize environmental harm.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateMar 4, 2011

String blossom thinner proves effective across stages of bloom development

Research provides valuable data on optimal thinning times for commercial peach and nectarine production, with mechanical string blossom thinners showing significant benefits across stages of bloom development. The study found that thinning at the right stage increased fruit size and market value, while reducing follow-up hand-thinning ...

College students surveyed on guns on campus

A survey of college students at two universities found that more students were uncomfortable with concealed weapons on campus than those who supported it. The study, conducted by Sam Houston State University, found significant differences in opinions between students' comfort levels with guns on campus versus the wider community.

Sperm quality and counts worsening in Finland

A new study reveals semen quality has deteriorated significantly in Finland over the last decade, with total sperm counts decreasing from 227 million to 165 million. The incidence of testis cancer among younger men is also increasing, with a significant increase observed between those born in the late 1980s and earlier generations.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Andrology·DateMar 3, 2011

Kidney transplant recipients: Get moving to save your life

A study published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society Nephrology found that kidney transplant recipients who engage in little physical activity face increased risks of dying prematurely. The research suggests that patients need to exercise to fend off an early death and maintain heart health, which is crucial for these indi...

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 3, 2011

Our ancestors lived on shaky ground

Scientists discovered a link between ancient human sites and tectonically active landscapes in southern Africa. The research suggests that early humans were attracted to habitats created by tectonic movements near rivers or lakes, which provided food, shelter, and drinking water.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateMar 3, 2011

ATS issues report on emerging issues in HIV-associated pulmonary disease

The American Thoracic Society's report highlights the evolving landscape of HIV-associated pulmonary disease, including increased chronic lung diseases and new syndromes associated with antiretroviral therapy. Clinicians face a wider range of HIV-associated diseases, emphasizing the need for continued research and treatment modalities.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 3, 2011

In search of cancer's common ground: A next-generation view

Researchers have synthesized cancer literature to introduce the concept of enabling and emerging hallmarks, which are features that set the stage for cancer and may become core characteristics in nearly all cancers. This review article provides a cohesive foundation for biomedical researchers to develop new cancer treatments.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateMar 3, 2011

Scientists identify susceptibility factor for bipolar disorder

A new study reveals a previously unrecognized susceptibility factor for bipolar disorder, with genetic variation in the neurocan (NCAN) gene associated with an increased risk. The findings suggest that NCAN variants may disturb neuronal processes in patients with bipolar disorder, leading to cognitive deficits.

SourceCell Press·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMar 3, 2011

For birds, the suburbs may not be an ideal place to raise a family

A study by Smithsonian scientists found that suburban areas can be ecological traps for breeding birds due to high predation rates, particularly from domestic cats. The team tracked 69 fledgling catbirds and found that almost 80% were killed before reaching adulthood, with most deaths occurring within the first week after fledging.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalJournal of Ornithology·DateMar 3, 2011

Researchers discover new shapes of microcompartments

Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered new shapes of microcompartment shells, including dodecahedra and octahedra, which can be used to create containers or microreactors with specific functions. These designed shells could efficiently deliver therapeutic materials to cells at targeted locations.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2011

Mapping human vulnerability to climate change

Researchers have created a global map suggesting climate change will disproportionately affect the world's poorest regions. The study forecasts potential changes in local populations for 2050, predicting that those living in hot, low-latitude areas such as Africa and South America will be most vulnerable to climate-related challenges.

SourceMcGill University·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·DateMar 3, 2011

Grazing of cattle pastures can improve soil quality

A team of US Department of Agriculture scientists found that moderate cattle grazing can improve soil health and sequester carbon and nitrogen. Decades of plowing have degraded the soil in the Piedmont region, but researchers discovered that grasses planted on eroded land and grazed by beef cattle can restore soil quality.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateMar 3, 2011

Some Antarctic ice is forming from bottom

Researchers found that refrozen ice makes up 24% of the ice sheet base around Dome A, with rates of refreezing greater than surface accumulation rates. This discovery reshapes understanding of how the ice sheet expands and moves, and its potential reaction to a warming climate.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalScience·DateMar 3, 2011

Solving a traditional Chinese medicine mystery

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered a natural product from traditional Chinese medicine that blocks gene control machinery in cells, suggesting potential as an anticancer drug. The compound, triptolide, has been shown to be effective against cancer and other conditions.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateMar 3, 2011

The more secure you feel, the less you value your stuff, UNH research shows

A recent study from the University of New Hampshire found that individuals who feel more secure in their relationships place a lower monetary value on their possessions. This heightened sense of security can lead to decreased valuation of possessions, as people perceive them as already being protected by their loved ones.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateMar 3, 2011

Study finds MRSA danger in gyms may be exaggerated

A recent study published in the American Journal of Infection Control found that community gym surfaces do not appear to be reservoirs for MRSA transmission. The researchers collected 240 samples from three local gyms and found none to be positive for MRSA or MSSA, suggesting that aggressive disinfection programs may not be warranted.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateMar 3, 2011

ATS issues report recommending research priorities in treatment of sleep apnea

The American Thoracic Society's new report highlights the need for research on incorporating ambulatory management of obstructive sleep apnea into healthcare systems. Portable monitor testing is limited by lack of standardization and high costs, with studies needed to demonstrate its efficacy and cost-effectiveness.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 3, 2011