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Science News Archive April 2014 - Page 30


Page 30 of 32

Going global

A genome-wide analysis of genes that drive cell division in a multicellular organism has been conducted, revealing over 300 genes differentially expressed during the G1 and G2 phases. The study provides a searchable resource for scientists and citizens to explore gene expression in wing discs and cultured cells.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateApr 2, 2014

Weight loss reduces risk of death from cardiovascular disease in those at risk of diabetes

A recent study published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology found that lifestyle interventions can significantly reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular disease and all-causes among individuals with impaired glucose tolerance. The 23-year follow-up of the Da Qing Diabetes Prevention Study showed a cumulative incidence of death...

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateApr 2, 2014

A brain region for resisting alcohol's allure

Researchers find the lateral habenula controls sensitivity to the negative effects of drinking alcohol, leading to increased drinking behavior when the region is inactivated. This study provides new insights into addictive behaviors and may help identify individuals at risk of becoming problem drinkers.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 2, 2014

New model shows moderate resource use & reduced economic inequality keys to sustainability

A new analytical tool, HANDY, incorporates two new variables into the well-known predator-prey model, reflecting the accumulation of wealth and economic stratification between rich and poor. The model suggests that human societies can reach a sustainable steady state when they do not over-deplete natural resources and avoid extreme eco...

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalEcological Economics·DateApr 2, 2014

Morning rays keep off pounds

A Northwestern University study found that people exposed to early morning sunlight have a significantly lower body mass index (BMI) than those who get afternoon light. The study suggests that bright morning light can be used as a strategy for managing weight, and recommends getting at least 500 lux of brightness between 8am and noon.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 2, 2014

Dinosaur chase reconstructed 70 years after excavation

Researchers digitally reconstructed a model of a dinosaur chase using theropod and sauropod footprints excavated in Texas 1940. The reconstruction allowed scientists to view the entire 45m long tracksite in 3D for the first time since excavation, corroborating maps drawn by original excavator.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 2, 2014

Finnish research improves the reliability of ice friction assessment

Researchers at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland have developed a new thermodynamic model that improves the reliability of ice friction assessments. The model shows that sliding speed and ice temperature significantly affect surface friction, leading to erroneous interpretations in earlier laboratory measurements.

SourceVTT Technical Research Centre of Finland·JournalCold Regions Science and Technology·DateApr 2, 2014

'Trans Fat, Regulation, Legislation and Human Health'

The US Food and Drug Administration is reviewing evidence linking dietary trans fat to human health risks, with potential restrictions on industrially produced trans fats. The move aims to reduce cardiovascular disease risk and has implications for industries such as food manufacturers and restaurants.

SourceElsevier·JournalClinical Therapeutics·DateApr 2, 2014

Optimal distance between 2 electrode tips when recording compound nerve action potentials

The study found that a distance of 5 mm between recording and stimulating electrodes, and a distance of 10 mm between recording and stimulating sites, was optimal for compound nerve action potential recording. Additionally, orthodromic compound action potentials were more stable and displayed less interference than antidromic ones.

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateApr 2, 2014

Making the most of carbon nanotube-liquid crystal combos

Researchers found temperature and concentration effects on physical properties of combined materials, including tilt angle, polarisation, response time, and dielectric relaxation. Increasing nanotube concentration enhances certain properties but slows down others.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateApr 2, 2014

Tiny crystals to boost solar

Researchers in France have developed a new technique for studying solar panel absorber materials, which could lead to non-toxic and readily available alternatives. The technique involves resonant diffraction of single crystals, allowing for the creation of high-quality material samples.

SourceInternational Union of Crystallography·JournalActa Crystallographica Section B·DateApr 2, 2014

One or 2? How to decide how many species you have got

Scientists from Museum für Naturkunde Berlin use genetic data and sound analysis to determine the taxonomic status of two West African treefrog species. They found that two previously considered a single species actually belong to two distinct species, one large and one small, with different call characteristics.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalZoosystematics and Evolution·DateApr 2, 2014

Call for circumcision gets a boost

New study finds infant circumcision reduces risk of adverse medical conditions by over 100 to 1, with benefits including protection against urinary tract infections and foreskin-related diseases. The procedure is also shown to be cost-saving and promote access for poor families.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateApr 2, 2014

River ice reveals new twist on Arctic melt

A recent study by Simon Fraser University geographer Lance Lesack discovered that warmer springs with unexpected snowfall declines are driving earlier-than-expected ice breakup in great Arctic rivers. This finding is significant as it challenges previous assumptions about the effects of climate change on Arctic ice systems.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 2, 2014

Study shows Florida's participation in ACS NSQIP resulted in statewide improvement

A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that Florida's participation in the ACS National Surgical Quality Improvement Program resulted in broad improvement across hospitals. The program reduced complications by 14.5% and saved an estimated 89 lives, avoiding $6.6 million in healthcare expenses.

SourceAmerican College of Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateApr 2, 2014

Body odor changes following vaccination

Researchers at Monell Chemical Senses Center and USDA found that immunization alters urine odor in similar ways, while immune-activated responses produce qualitatively different odors. This discovery suggests a pathway between immune activation and changes in body odor compounds, potentially enabling non-invasive disease detection.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalPhysiology & Behavior·DateApr 2, 2014

Despite economic times, US demand for total joint replacement remains steady

A new study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that economic downturns did not significantly impact the growth trends for hip and knee arthroplasty in the US. The study's results support previous projections, indicating a recession-proof demand for total joint replacement through at least 2021.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateApr 2, 2014

Europium complexes emit red light at record efficiency

Researchers developed two europium complex-based compounds with record-high luminescence efficiency in red light, suitable for OLED applications. The materials' stability and ability to be produced from solutions make them promising for various fields, including displays, lighting components, and anticancer therapies.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry·DateApr 2, 2014

First peanut genome sequenced

The International Peanut Genome Initiative has successfully sequenced the peanut's genome, providing researchers with access to 96% of all peanut genes. This breakthrough will enable the development of drought- and disease-resistant, lower-input, and higher-yielding peanut varieties.

Cereal box psychology

A study by Cornell Food & Brand Lab researchers found that cereal boxes marketed to children have a lower shelf placement and downward-facing characters, creating incidental eye contact. This leads to increased feelings of trust and connection with the brand, as well as higher ratings for consumer preference.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalEnvironment and Behavior·DateApr 2, 2014