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Science News Archive June 2012 - Page 12


Page 12 of 29

The role of dopamine in sleep regulation

Researchers discovered that dopamine inhibits melatonin production by forming 'heteromers' with norepinephrine receptors, regulating the body's circadian rhythm. This discovery could lead to new treatments for circadian rhythm disturbances and sleep disorders affecting 40% of the world's population.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 19, 2012

In nanotube growth, errors are not an option

The study found that iron is the best and quickest catalyst to heal topological defects in nanotubes, which are critical for advanced materials. The researchers determined that healing occurs in a small zone near the catalyst and can happen in a fraction of a millisecond.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 19, 2012

'Color blind' policies could make diversity harder to achieve

A recent study published in Current Directions in Psychological Science found that color-blind policies can backfire, leading to increased racial bias and tension. The authors propose a multicultural approach as an alternative, which has been shown to improve understanding and spotting of discrimination., Minority applicants perceive d...

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateJun 19, 2012

Long-term cancer survivors struggle to keep regular work hours

A study by Steffen Torp and colleagues found that long-term cancer survivors take significantly more sick leave than their non-cancer counterparts. Socio-demographic factors, such as education level and family status, were key predictors of sick leave, rather than the type or severity of cancer.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Cancer Survivorship·DateJun 19, 2012

Trouble on the horizon for GM crops?

A study by researchers at the University of Arizona found that pest populations are evolving resistance to genetically modified cotton plants, which produce toxins derived from Bacillus thuringiensis. The discovery highlights the need for closer monitoring and countering of pest resistance to biotech crops.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 19, 2012

NIH study finds HIV-positive young men at risk of low bone mass

A recent NIH study found that HIV-positive young men are more likely to experience low bone mass than their peers. Regular monitoring, exercise, and sufficient vitamin D intake can help prevent future fracture risk. The study's findings highlight the importance of addressing bone health in this vulnerable population.

Blogging relieves stress on new mothers

Research found that blogging positively impacts new mothers' well-being by increasing feelings of social support, marital satisfaction, and reducing parenting stress. Blogging provides an outlet for stay-at-home moms to connect with family and friends, showcasing their hobbies and accomplishments.

SourcePenn State·JournalMaternal and Child Health Journal·DateJun 19, 2012

Soda companies' PR campaigns are bad for health

Experts say soda companies' corporate social responsibility campaigns distract from the health risks of sugary beverages and shift blame to consumers. The campaigns target young people and aim to increase sales, diverting attention from the industry's contribution to rising obesity rates.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 19, 2012

Study: Willingness to be screened for dementia varies by age but not by sex, race or income

A recent study found that almost 90% of older adults aged 65-96 were willing to undergo dementia screening, with refusal rates higher among those between 70-79 years old. The study's results suggest that age is the primary factor affecting willingness, with no significant impact from sex, race, or income level.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJun 19, 2012

Where to put nuclear waste?

Researchers found affluent men more likely to accept nuclear waste storage sites than women or economically disadvantaged individuals. The team analyzed local opinions on a Finnish nuclear waste repository and identified a 'white male effect,' highlighting the need for a more holistic approach to community involvement.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Technology and Management·DateJun 19, 2012

Helping superconductors turn up the heat

Researchers at the University of Miami introduced a breakthrough theory that explains high-temperature superconductivity. The team found that specific quantum effects can generate superpositions of individual states, providing an effective glue to repair the system and allow superconducting behavior to emerge.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalEPL (Europhysics Letters)·DateJun 18, 2012

Cheaper drug could lead to serious eye issues

A recent Queen's University study found that the cheaper drug for treating wet Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) has a higher risk of causing eye inflammation and vision loss. The research indicates that patients receiving the cheaper drug had a 12 times higher risk of serious eye issues, emphasizing the need for caution in its use.

SourceQueen's University·JournalCanadian Journal of Ophthalmology·DateJun 18, 2012

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for June 19, 2012, online issue

A recent study found that Alzheimer's patients who undergo hospitalization are at risk for complications such as delirium, loss of independence, and death. Researchers also highlighted the risks associated with Flavocoxid, a medical food used to treat osteoarthritis, which can cause liver injury in some patients. Additionally, screenin...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 18, 2012

Yankee fans keep enemy Red Sox closer, NYU study shows

Researchers found that Yankees fans estimated Fenway Park as closer to Yankee Stadium than Camden Yards, while non-Yankee fans accurately perceived the actual distance. This suggests that social categorization and identity threat play a role in shaping our representations of physical distances.

SourceNew York University·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateJun 18, 2012