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Science News Archive March 2013 - Page 26


Page 26 of 30

New tool better estimates pandemic threats

A new method better assesses pandemic risks by estimating transmissibility of emerging zoonotic viruses, such as the H3N2v-M virus, using routine surveillance data. This approach is simple and robust, but may not be suitable for non-subcritical outbreaks.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 5, 2013

Why fish is so good for you

Scientists have discovered that omega-3 fatty acids found in fish can help lower blood pressure. The 'SLO1' potassium channel plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of these fatty acids. When administered to mice, DHA expanded blood vessels and decreased blood pressure, but this effect was blocked when the SLO1 channel was not present.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 5, 2013

New effort to identify Parkinson's biomarkers

A new NIH-funded collaboration aims to accelerate the search for biomarkers in Parkinson's disease by improving collaboration among researchers and involving patients in clinical studies. The initiative, led by Dr. Clemens Scherzer at Brigham and Women's Hospital, seeks to develop biomarkers that can predict, diagnose, or monitor the d...

Health benefits of marriage may not extend to all

A study by Ohio State University researchers found that marriage provides less protection against mortality as health deteriorates. Married people tend to overestimate their own health, which can lead to a false sense of security. The study's findings suggest that marriage may be more beneficial for those in excellent health, but not f...

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateMar 5, 2013

Heavy moms-to-be at greater risk of c-section

Women with a pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more are at increased risk of vacuum extraction delivery or Cesarean section. Excessive gestational weight gain also increases the risk of forceps, vacuum extraction, and C-section. Obesity is associated with lower gestational weight gain but larger baby sizes.

SourceWiley·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateMar 5, 2013

The making of Antarctica's hidden fjords

A team of geoscientists from the University of Arizona led by Stuart N. Thomson discovered that East Antarctica's landscape changed dramatically when big glaciers appeared there, carving deep valleys quickly. The research used sediment cores to analyze minerals and determine the rate of erosion over time.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMar 5, 2013

Ancient DNA solves 320-year-old mystery

Researchers from the University of Adelaide's Australian Centre for Ancient DNA extracted ancient DNA from two specimens and compared it to extinct relatives. They found that the Falkland Islands wolf diverged from its closest living relative around 16,000 years ago, revealing a 16,000-year-old island colonization process.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 5, 2013

Sharing HIV research findings with participants

Researchers orally disseminated their HIV research findings to 477 participants, who enthusiastically received the information and identified new areas for investigation. The dissemination conference was funded by several organizations, including the National Institutes of Health.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 5, 2013

Boys are right-handed, girls are left...

Research on sugar gliders and grey short-tailed opossums reveals a distinct pattern of handedness based on gender. Unlike other mammals, quadruped marsupials show reversed sex-related handedness, with males being right-handed and females left-handed, particularly for more complex tasks.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateMar 5, 2013

Shadows over data sharing

The human genome sequencing project's experience highlights current challenges in accessing data, particularly in social sciences and personalized medicine. Researchers often withhold data due to competitive advantages or confidentiality agreements, hindering open access.

SourceSpringer·JournalEPJ Data Science·DateMar 5, 2013

Stressed proteins can cause blood clots for hours

Researchers at Rice University and Baylor College of Medicine have discovered that stressed proteins can remain in a dangerous shape for up to five hours before returning to their normal state. This finding has profound clinical implications, as it helps explain the workings of the key clot-forming protein von Willebrand factor.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 5, 2013

Affordable care alone may not be enough to help Latinos overcome cancer care barriers

A UCLA study found that financial hardship, lack of doctor continuity and care coordination, and communication issues significantly hinder access to prostate cancer care among Latino men. The study highlights the need for a multi-faceted approach to improve access, increase health literacy, and enhance care coordination.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalQualitative Health Research·DateMar 5, 2013

Better estrogen-testing methods needed to improve patient care

The Endocrine Society issues a position statement on estradiol measurement, highlighting the need for accurate testing to diagnose conditions like breast cancer, osteoporosis, and infertility. The organization calls for a universally recognized estradiol standard and new methods capable of measuring small concentrations.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMar 5, 2013

New method for greenhouse gas predictions

A new dynamic mathematical model estimates variation in greenhouse gas emissions in response to changes in wastewater management systems. The study provides more accurate and detailed predictions than current steady-state models, with implications for industries seeking to reduce their carbon footprint.

SourceConcordia University·JournalEnvironmental Science and Pollution Research·DateMar 5, 2013