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Science News Archive January 2012 - Page 17


Page 17 of 24

New model for epidemic contagion

A new model for epidemic contagion has been developed, accounting for human mobility patterns and reducing the spread of infectious diseases. The study found that older diffusion-based models overestimated the speed of epidemics, highlighting the importance of considering home locations in modeling human mobility.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateJan 11, 2012

'I feel your pain ...'

A new study examines the relationship between observed workplace incivility towards same-gender colleagues and negative emotions. Female employees who witness rudeness towards female colleagues experience higher levels of anger, demoralization, fear, and anxiety. In contrast, male observers are more affected by observing uncivil behavi...

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateJan 11, 2012

New species of tiny frog is world's smallest vertebrate

Researchers have discovered a new species of tiny frog, Paedophryne amauensis, which is the world's smallest vertebrate. The frog has an adult body size ranging from 7.0 to 8.0 millimeters, making it significantly smaller than the previous record holder, Paedocypris progenetica.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJan 11, 2012

UNC scientists collaborate to find first major genetic mutation associated with hereditary prostate cancer risk

Researchers have identified a rare genetic mutation linked to a significantly higher risk of developing prostate cancer, particularly in men with a family history of early-onset disease. The mutation, called HOXB13, is associated with a 10-20 times higher risk of developing prostate cancer.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 11, 2012

Atrial arrhythmias detected by pacemakers increase risk of stroke

Researchers at McMaster University found that nearly 1 in 3 patients with pacemakers and no history of atrial fibrillation experience asymptomatic atrial arrhythmias, increasing stroke risk. These episodes were often undetected until they were picked up by the pacemaker, highlighting the importance of monitoring for silent fibrillation.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 11, 2012

Ideal number of embryos to implant during assisted conception can be 1 or 2 dependent on maternal factors, but never 3 or more for women of any age

A new study published in The Lancet found that transferring one or two embryos during IVF therapy results in higher live birth rates and lower risks of adverse perinatal outcomes. However, transferring three or more embryos is associated with increased risks, especially severe preterm birth.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 11, 2012

Chemotherapy may influence leukemia relapse

Researchers found that chemotherapy can lead to DNA damage in cancer cells, which can cause them to evolve and become resistant to treatment. The study suggests that targeted therapies based on individual mutations may be more effective than current treatments.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature·DateJan 11, 2012

Gym benefits help Medicare plans recruit healthy seniors

A study by Brown University researchers found that offering fitness club memberships as a covered benefit attracts healthier patients. This strategy is effective in reducing costs and improving quality for Medicare Advantage plans. The trend of increasing plans offering fitness benefits suggests it may be an attractive business strategy.

SourceBrown University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 11, 2012