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Science News Archive February 2012 - Page 26


Page 26 of 30

The butterfly effect in nanotech medical diagnostics

Researchers developed a nanoparticle microfluidic color device for rapid detection of acute sepsis and other biomarkers, offering improved accuracy and speed in medical diagnostics. The device boasts high sensitivity and can detect minute quantities of biomolecules, making it a promising solution for point-of-care diagnostics.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Design Engineering·DateFeb 6, 2012

HIV-infected youth, psychiatric symptoms and functional outcomes

Researchers analyzed data from an observational study to examine the relationship between HIV illness severity and psychiatric disorders. The study found limited evidence of associations between specific antiretroviral therapy and psychiatric symptoms, but noted associations with quality of life and cognitive functioning.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2012

Children hospitalized at alarming rate due to abuse

According to a Yale University study published in Pediatrics, over 4,500 US children were hospitalized due to child abuse in 2006, resulting in 300 deaths. Children under one year old were at highest risk of hospitalization, and those on Medicaid had rates six times higher than non-Medicaid patients.

SourceYale University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 6, 2012

Study shows electron-beam irradiation reduces virus-related health risk in lettuce, spinach

A study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology found that electron-beam irradiation can inactivate viruses on leafy greens, reducing the risk of foodborne illness. The research provides quantified data on the reduction in health risks through this technology, which could lead to greater adoption in the fresh produce industry.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateFeb 6, 2012

New methodology assesses risk of scarce metals

Yale researchers developed a methodology to evaluate the importance of scarce metals using supply risk, environmental implications, and vulnerability analysis. The new approach provides a standardized framework for corporations and national governments to inform strategic decision-making around resource use.

SourceYale University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 6, 2012

Heart hormone helps shape fat metabolism

A new study at Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute suggests that the heart hormone natriuretic peptides play a role in breaking down fat. The peptides turn on a molecular mechanism similar to what's activated when the body is exposed to cold and burns fat to generate heat.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 6, 2012

Zinc control could be path to breast cancer treatment

Researchers have identified a key switch that releases zinc into cells, which could be used to block cancer development and halt tumor growth. Zinc levels are controlled by protein molecules called zinc transporters, and understanding how these transporters release zinc has important implications for disease treatment.

SourceCardiff University·JournalScience Signaling·DateFeb 6, 2012

Does online dating really work?

A new study by Northwestern University researchers found that ineffective algorithms and profiles hinder online dating. In contrast, mobile dating enables potential partners to meet face-to-face quickly, which is crucial for finding compatibility.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPsychological Science in the Public Interest·DateFeb 6, 2012

Spectator rage: The dark side of professional sports

A deadly Egyptian soccer riot has highlighted the need for sports teams to assess and prevent spectator rage, which can be triggered by emotional and environmental factors. Researchers suggest that screenings and monitoring of fans during events are critical in preventing incidents.

SourceBoston College·JournalJournal of Service Research·DateFeb 6, 2012

Land-cover changes do not impact glacier loss

A recent study by University of Innsbruck climate researchers found that land-cover changes have a limited effect on glacier loss in the Kilimanjaro area. The team's novel methodology showed that LCC mainly alter precipitation over glaciers, resulting in local increases or decreases in glacier mass.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalNature Climate Change·DateFeb 5, 2012

University of Miami student Bignami among 5 Guy Harvey Scholarship recipients

University of Miami graduate student Sean Bignami has been awarded a $5,000 scholarship from the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation to study the effects of ocean acidification on large marine fish. He plans to share his research with decision-makers and engage in outreach programs to promote public awareness of marine science.

Dieting with the denomination, determination

A recent study found that African American women starting a new group weight loss program are more successful if they meet in a church setting, especially those with less experience managing their weight. The study also shows that social support plays a crucial role in weight loss success.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Black Psychology·DateFeb 3, 2012

Lower levels of sunlight link to allergy and eczema

A new study found that children living in areas with lower levels of sunlight are at greater risk of developing food allergies and eczema. The research team analyzed data from Australian children and found a link between latitude and allergies to peanut and egg, as well as a higher prevalence of eczema in the south compared to the north.

SourceThe Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateFeb 3, 2012

Global extinction: Gradual doom is just as bad as abrupt

A recent study published in the Geological Society of America Bulletin suggests that Earth's largest mass extinction, known as 'The Great Dying,' occurred over hundreds of thousands of years, not suddenly. The research, led by Thomas Algeo from the University of Cincinnati, found evidence of a prolonged die-off of marine life due to ma...

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalGeological Society of America Bulletin·DateFeb 3, 2012

Batchelor Foundation challenge grant to support helicopter purchase

The University of Miami will use a $700,000 challenge grant from the Batchelor Foundation to purchase a helicopter equipped with scientific equipment for environmental observations. The helicopter will enable researchers to collect critical data near the Earth's surface and atmosphere, improving knowledge of climate processes.

Collective action

Researchers found that enhancers, which are meant to be active only in certain muscle types, were occupied by transcription factors from other tissues. This discovery reveals a new model for how enhancers function and provides insights into the developmental history of cells.

Gene related to fat preferences in humans found

Researchers discovered a genetic basis for people's preferences for fatty foods, finding that those with certain forms of the CD36 gene may prefer higher-fat foods and be at greater risk for obesity. The study suggests that genes related to fat perception may play a role in diet adherence and food preference.

SourcePenn State·JournalObesity·DateFeb 3, 2012

SFU scientists seek teaching excitement at AAAS

Simon Fraser University faculty members are attending the American Association for the Advancement of Science conference to share their teaching experiences and learn about innovative methods for engaging students in science education. They aim to bring new approaches back to their programs to benefit students, with a focus on active l...