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Science News Archive January 2012 - Page 3


Page 3 of 24

ESC cardiologists 'intrigued'by novel approach to heart failure

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology has shown significant improvements in peak post-ischemic blood flow in the arm and leg, suggesting a potential novel approach to heart failure treatment. However, further exploration is needed due to conflicting data on exercise capacity and inflammatory markers.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateJan 30, 2012

Running robots

A team of engineers led by Ioannis Poulakakis aims to create robots that can run like animals, enabling them to access areas inaccessible to conventional vehicles. Using biomechanics research, they seek to develop a family of systematic control strategies that work with the robot's natural dynamics.

Inquests more likely for younger people and deaths from medical care complications

A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that coroners are more likely to hold inquests for childhood deaths and deaths from medical complications. The research analyzed data on over 20,000 deaths in five Australian states and found a significant disparity between publicized and unpublicized inquests.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 30, 2012

Majority of self-harming adolescents don't receive a mental health assessment in ERs

A nationwide study reveals that most young people who present to emergency departments with deliberate self-harm are discharged without receiving a mental health assessment. The study found that only 39% of patients discharged to the community received a mental health assessment while in the emergency department.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJan 30, 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

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

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

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

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.

The many unexpected sides of romantic love

A study found that people primed with feelings of love for their partner behaved more aggressively towards attractive rivals. Meanwhile, researchers discovered that men who confess love first tend to feel happier than women in the long run.

SourceSAGE·DateJan 28, 2012

Very good experiences don't just happen for patients

Rhode Island Hospital's new simulation-based training program, Project CLEAR!, aims to standardize communication skills among emergency department staff and enhance patient satisfaction. The program has been successfully implemented with nearly 400 staff members, resulting in improved quality of care, safety, and service.

The pupils are the windows to the mind

A new study published in Perspectives on Psychological Science explores the use of pupilometry, a technique measuring pupil diameter, to gain insights into human behavior. By analyzing changes in pupil size, researchers can identify what people are paying attention to, shedding light on brain function and cognitive processes.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateJan 27, 2012

Assessment of COPD exacerbation severity with the COPD Assessment Test

A new study found that the CAT questionnaire is a reliable tool for assessing COPD exacerbation severity, reflecting both exacerbation length and reduction in lung function. The CAT scores were also weakly related to systemic inflammatory markers and elevated in stable patients with a history of frequent exacerbations.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 27, 2012