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Science News for March 19, 2013


First of its kind study in Canada looks at who is taking aspirin to prevent heart attack or stroke

A new study in Canada has found that over 40% of healthy individuals are taking daily aspirin to prevent cardiovascular disease, despite recent literature suggesting its limited benefits. The study's authors hope to raise awareness among physicians and patients about the importance of discussing anti-platelet medication use.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalCanadian Family Physician·DateMar 19, 2013

Genes identify breast cancer risk and may aid prevention

Researchers have discovered a set of genes that can predict which women are at high risk for estrogen-sensitive breast cancer, making it possible to identify potential beneficiaries of preventive drugs. The study identifies 13 genes associated with lipid or fat metabolism in women with hormone receptor-negative breast cancer.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateMar 19, 2013

More career options may explain why fewer women pursue jobs in science and math

A new study published in Psychological Science suggests that the greater likelihood of females having high verbal abilities may lead them to consider a wider range of occupations, resulting in fewer STEM career choices. Researchers found that students with high math and moderate verbal abilities were more likely to pursue STEM careers,...

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 19, 2013

New clues in hunt for heredity in type 2 diabetes

A new study by Lund University researchers has found that epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation, can influence the function of insulin-producing cells and alter genetic risk variants for type 2 diabetes. The findings suggest that these modifications may play a key role in the development of the disease.

SourceLund University·JournalDiabetologia·DateMar 19, 2013

Are survivors of childhood leukemia and lymphoma at greater risk of chronic fatigue as adults?

Chronic fatigue is three times more prevalent among adult cancer survivors than the general population. A persistent low-grade inflammatory response may contribute to chronic fatigue in these individuals. The study highlights the need for healthcare providers to communicate with cancer survivor patients about possible chronic fatigue.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology·DateMar 19, 2013

For polar bears, it's survival of the fattest

A study on polar bears in western Hudson Bay found that the timing of their migration can be predicted by sea ice melt and freeze patterns. The results suggest that as sea ice melts earlier and freezes later, polar bears arrive on shore earlier in the summer and leave later in the autumn.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateMar 19, 2013

Ben-Gurion U. researchers and Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. develop psoriasis drug

Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. have developed a promising drug candidate to treat psoriasis. The engineered receptor effectively reduces inflammatory signals in mice models, showing potential for a viable treatment for severe psoriasis patients.

Study explores long-term water quality trends in near-pristine streams

Researchers analyzed decades-long data from 22 streams in 7 experimental forests across the US, highlighting regional patterns of change in stream nitrogen concentrations. The study's findings underscore the importance of long-term monitoring in informing best management practices for protecting water resources.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Research Station·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateMar 19, 2013

How proteins read meta DNA code

Researchers developed a basic computer model of the nucleosome to identify the sliding mechanism of nucleosomes along the DNA. This mechanism supports the idea of a second genetic code, previously suggested in 2006, which consists of a mechanical code written within the base pair sequence.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateMar 19, 2013

Origins of human teamwork found in chimpanzees

Scientists found that chimpanzees coordinate actions and understand the need to help a partner perform their role to achieve a common goal. In trials, pairs of chimpanzees solved problems together, even swapping tools, to get food out of a box, demonstrating strategic coordination similar to humans.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalBiology Letters·DateMar 19, 2013

IUPUI stem cell research could expand clinical use of regenerative human cells

Researchers at IUPUI have successfully differentiated human induced pluripotent stem cells into retinal cells using chemical methods, eliminating the need for animal products. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for retinal diseases and expand the clinical use of regenerative human cells.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateMar 19, 2013