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Science News Archive November 2012 - Page 17


Page 17 of 23

You can be a star -- on science's stage

The growth of citizen science has led to a surge in public involvement in scientific research, with over 25 NSF-funded projects now underway. Chemistry projects, such as Curating ChemSpider or monitoring water quality, allow hobbyists and enthusiasts to contribute to groundbreaking research.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateNov 14, 2012

Finally! The pig genome is mapped

The pig genome has been mapped, providing insights into the evolution of domesticated pigs and their relationship to wild boars. The study reveals that domestication occurred nearly 10,000 years ago in several independent locations across Europe and Asia.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature·DateNov 14, 2012

Chronic fatigue syndrome -- a system under stress

Australian researchers discovered that reduced heart rate variability best predicts cognitive disturbances in people with chronic fatigue syndrome. The study found a significant loss of vagal modulation, consistent with the notion that CFS represents a system under stress. This could lead to new ways to improve cognitive difficulties i...

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalPLOS ONE·DateNov 14, 2012

'Dirty money' affects spending habits, new study finds

A new study found that currency's physical appearance dramatically affects consumer behaviour, with people preferring to spend dirty, crumpled currency in social situations. The researchers' findings challenge long-held beliefs about the value of money and suggest that it can be a part of conspicuous consumption.

SourceUniversity of Guelph·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateNov 13, 2012

Injectable sponge delivers drugs, cells, and structure

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a biocompatible gel-based sponge that can be molded to any shape, loaded with drugs or stem cells, and delivered via injection. The sponge pops back to its original shape once inside the body, gradually releasing its cargo before safely degrading.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 13, 2012

A safer porn policy for employers

A recent study by Craig Cameron highlights the need for robust policies on workplace pornography to protect employees from sexual harassment and discrimination. The study identifies five primary methods of employee participation with pornography, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe work environment.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Technology Policy and Law·DateNov 13, 2012

Games may help train analysts to overcome bias

Researchers at Penn State used scenario-based games to detect confirmation bias in intelligence analysts. The study found that teams trained in considering alternative hypotheses outperformed others in identifying perpetrators and targets. The game was designed to mimic real-life situations faced by U.S. intelligence analysts in Iraq.

Matching brands: Why do consumers prefer Tostitos salsa with Tostitos tortilla chips?

A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that consumers enjoy Tostitos salsa with Tostitos tortilla chips more when told they come from the same brand. The authors conclude that matching brands can enhance joint consumption experiences and provide an advantage for companies offering complementary products.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateNov 13, 2012

Doubling down against diabetes

Researchers have engineered natural gut peptides to carry small steroids, improving insulin secretion, blood glucose, and body weight in mice. The study's findings suggest a potential breakthrough in treating type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome, with minimal risk of estrogen-related side effects.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Medicine·DateNov 13, 2012

Study demonstrates that earlier end of life care discussions are linked to less aggressive care in final days of life

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that earlier end-of-life care discussions are associated with less aggressive care and increased use of hospice care for patients with advanced cancer. Initiating these discussions before the last month of life allows patients to make informed decisions about their care.

SourceAmerican Society of Clinical Oncology·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateNov 13, 2012

MRSA outbreak mapped by DNA sequencing

Researchers used DNA sequencing to map an MRSA outbreak in a special care baby unit, tracking its spread into the community. The technique allowed for quicker identification and isolation of outbreaks, containing the infection and preventing substantial illness.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateNov 13, 2012

Research strengthens link between obesity and dental health in homeless children

A recent study published in Journal of Pediatric Health Care found a strong correlation between childhood obesity and dental cavities among homeless children. Researchers analyzed data from 157 children aged 2-17 years old at an urban homeless shelter, revealing that as body mass index increased with age, so did cavity counts.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Pediatric Health Care·DateNov 13, 2012

Autism treatment is more than skin deep

Researchers found that metal-binding agents applied to the skin, prescribed for autism treatment, are not absorbed and ineffective. The study contradicts claims made by some practitioners treating children with mercury-binding agents.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Medical Toxicology·DateNov 13, 2012