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Science News Archive 2012 - Page 124


Page 124 of 333

Hurricanes can be 50 percent stronger if passing over fresh water, says Texas A&M study

A recent Texas A&M University study reveals that hurricanes can intensify by 50% faster when passing over large areas of fresh water, making them more devastating. The research analyzed Tropical Cyclones for the decade 1998-2007 and found a significant correlation between freshwater regions and increased storm intensity.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 13, 2012

Fruity science halves fat in chocolate

University of Warwick scientists have discovered a way to replace up to 50% of chocolate's fat content with fruit juice without compromising its texture or taste. The new method, known as Pickering emulsion, uses tiny droplets of juice measuring under 30 microns in diameter to create a lower-fat chocolate product.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry·DateAug 13, 2012

Bringing style home

Researchers studied Apartment Therapy website for insights into consumer behavior, finding that reading and imitating decor can shape personal style and boundaries. Through a tripartite process of problematization, instrumentalization, and ritualization, consumers develop standards for cool design choices.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateAug 13, 2012

Stepping stones to the north

A new study reveals that protected areas are crucial habitats for animal species to colonize and thrive as they migrate towards the poles. The research analyzed millions of records from citizen scientists and found that nature reserves are 4 times more likely to be colonized than expected, providing vital refuges against climate change.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 13, 2012

New bacteria-resistant materials discovered

Scientists at the University of Nottingham have developed new polymers resistant to bacterial attachment, reducing biofilm formation and infection rates. The breakthrough could lead to a significant reduction in hospital infections and medical device failures, with initial results showing up to 96.7% reduction in bacteria.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateAug 13, 2012

Study links persistent and loud snoring in young children with problem behaviors

A study published in Pediatrics found a strong association between persistent and loud snoring in young children and problem behaviors such as hyperactivity, depression, and inattention. The study suggests that doctors should routinely screen for and track snoring in children from poorer families to prevent preschool behavior problems.

Modification of tumor suppressor affects sensitivity to potential GBM treatment

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that a modification of the tumor suppressor gene PTEN is associated with resistance to glioblastoma treatments. The research suggests that targeting PTEN modification could lead to improved treatment outcomes for patients with glioblastoma.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 13, 2012

Strategy appears to help rule-in, rule-out heart attack within 1 hour

A new algorithm using high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T values can quickly classify patients as either likely to have a heart attack or not, reducing the need for prolonged monitoring. The strategy has been shown to be safe and accurate, ruling-out or ruling-in heart attacks within one hour in 77% of patients with acute chest pain.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateAug 13, 2012

New oncogene identified for breast cancer

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have identified a new oncogene, FAM83B, which contributes to the development of breast cancer. Elevated expression of this gene is associated with the more aggressive triple-negative subgroup, highlighting the need for new therapeutic options.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 13, 2012

Rejected drug may protect against toxic substance common to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases

Latrepirdine, a compound initially rejected for Alzheimer's treatment, shows promise in animal models by reducing neurodegeneration-related proteins and activating autophagy. The study suggests potential benefits in treating or preventing disorders associated with high levels of alpha-synuclein.