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Science News for January 29, 2012


Oxford, Harvard scientists lead data-sharing effort

Researchers at University of Oxford and Harvard Stem Cell Institute have developed a common standard to describe and integrate large datasets from various fields, enabling better coordination of findings. The ISA Commons platform allows small research groups to store laboratory data without dedicated bioinformatics support.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 29, 2012

Lifelong payoff for attentive kindergarten kids

A study published by Dr. Linda Pagani found that kindergarten attentiveness skills accurately predict later work-oriented behavior, with children who are well-engaged in the classroom exhibiting better self-control, confidence, and ability to follow directions.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Abnormal Child Psychology·DateJan 29, 2012

What do killer whales eat in the Arctic?

Researchers combined scientific observations with Canadian Inuit traditional knowledge to determine Arctic killer whale behaviour and diet. Arctic killer whales primarily eat marine mammals, such as seals and bowhead whales, but little is known about their prey preference.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalAquatic Biosystems·DateJan 29, 2012
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The good news about carbon storage in tropical vegetation

A new study published in Nature Climate Change provides a high-resolution map of aboveground biomass density for the world's tropical forests, leading to better tracking of changes in biomass density and improved estimates of carbon emissions. With this map, countries can accurately report their greenhouse gas emissions under the UNFCCC.

SourceWoodwell Climate Research Center·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 29, 2012

Sexual healing? Not likely

Research by Monash University reveals that producing high-quality sperm comes with significant health costs for males. The study found a negative correlation between sperm quality and immune function, suggesting males invest energy strategically to produce better sperm.

SourceMonash University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 29, 2012

UCLA astronomers solve mystery of vanishing electrons

Researchers used data from orbiting spacecraft to discover that energetic electrons are swept away by solar wind particles during periods of heightened solar activity. The findings aim to improve predictions of geomagnetic storms and protect satellites and astronauts.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Physics·DateJan 29, 2012
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Differences in systolic blood pressure between the left and right arm could indicate vascular disease and increased likelihood of death

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that a difference of 15mm Hg or more between arms is associated with increased risk of peripheral vascular disease, pre-existing cerebrovascular disease, cardiovascular mortality, and all-cause mortality. Measuring blood pressure in both arms should be part of routine care to identify patient...

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 29, 2012

Genetic regulation of metabolomic biomarkers – paths to cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes

Researchers identified 31 genetic regions associated with circulating metabolites, including biomarkers for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. The study provides new insights into the biological processes leading to common diseases, suggesting that detailed data on multiple metabolites can help elucidate these processes.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 29, 2012

Ultrasound male contraceptive, overlooked for decades, confirmed to work

Researchers have confirmed that therapeutic ultrasound can be used as a male contraceptive, providing up to 2.5 months of protection in rats with two 15-minute sessions. The method was initially overlooked for decades due to concerns over its effectiveness, but new evidence suggests it may offer an alternative to existing options.

SourceMale Contraception Information Project·JournalReproductive Biology and Endocrinology·DateJan 29, 2012
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2-arm blood pressure check indicator for risk from heart disease or death

Researchers at Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry found that differences in systolic blood pressure between arms are associated with increased risk of vascular disease and mortality. A difference of 10mm Hg or more is linked to an increased risk of peripheral vascular disease, pre-existing cerebrovascular disease, and mortality.

SourceThe Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 29, 2012

Body clock receptor linked to diabetes in new genetic study

A new genetic study has found a strong link between the body clock hormone melatonin and type 2 diabetes. Carrying rare genetic mutations in the MT2 gene increases a person's risk of developing type 2 diabetes six times, suggesting a direct link between melatonin regulation and insulin release.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Genetics·DateJan 29, 2012

That which does not kill yeast makes it stronger

Researchers found that stressful conditions increase chromosomal instability in yeast, allowing cells to rapidly adapt and acquire diverse aneuploid chromosome numbers. This stress-induced genetic variation enables yeast cells to thrive in environments with harsh conditions.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalNature·DateJan 29, 2012

Sonicating sperm -- the future of male contraception

New research uses commercially available therapeutic ultrasound equipment to reduce sperm counts in male rats, resulting in infertility. The non-invasive treatment reduced sperm reserves far below levels seen in fertile men.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalReproductive Biology and Endocrinology·DateJan 29, 2012

Warming in the Tasman Sea a global warming hot spot

The Tasman Sea has become a global warming hotspot, with ocean temperatures rising two degrees warmer than 60 years ago due to intensified east-west winds and greenhouse gas emissions. A long-term monitoring network is needed to track these changes.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJan 29, 2012
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