Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive August 2014 - Page 5


Page 5 of 31

Bronze Age wine cellar found

A Bronze Age wine cellar was uncovered at an ancient Canaanite palace in modern-day Israel, showcasing wine residue from over 40 jars. The jars contained chemical compounds indicative of wine, as well as subtle differences in ingredients or additives such as honey and cedar oil.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 27, 2014

No cookie-cutter divorces, so what info should online co-parenting classes offer?

A University of Illinois researcher recommends online co-parenting classes be tailored to individual family needs, addressing emotional support and conflict resolution. The course should also cover less discussed topics like introducing a new partner to children and sex education, and provide resources for parents with limited vocabulary.

Photodynamic therapy vs. cryotherapy for actinic keratoses

A meta-analysis of four studies found that photodynamic therapy (PDT) is more effective than cryotherapy in clearing actinic keratoses (AKs), a common skin lesion caused by sun damage. At three months after treatment, patients treated with PDT had a 14% better chance of complete lesion clearance compared to those who received cryotherapy.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Dermatology·DateAug 27, 2014

Gang life brings deep health risks for girls

A study of 188 African American females found that gang involvement is associated with high-risk behaviors such as casual sex partners, substance abuse, and HIV testing. Low self-esteem, emotional problems, and housing instability are also linked to a higher likelihood of gang involvement.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalChildren and Youth Services Review·DateAug 27, 2014

How to prevent organic food fraud

Researchers from the Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority and Wuerzburg University devised a new way to authenticate organic produce. Their report uses nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to differentiate between conventional and organic tomatoes.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateAug 27, 2014

Self-deceived individuals deceive others better

A study by Newcastle University and the University of Exeter found that self-deceived individuals are viewed as more talented by their colleagues and are more likely to get promotions. This can lead to overestimation of others' abilities, increased risk-taking, and potentially disastrous consequences for organizations.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 27, 2014

Scripps Research Institute scientists link alcohol-dependence gene to neurotransmitter

Researchers identified the neurofibromatosis type 1 (Nf1) gene as a key regulator of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that lowers anxiety and increases feelings of relaxation. Variations in the human Nf1 gene are linked to alcohol-dependence risk and severity, suggesting a potential genetic basis for excessive drinking.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateAug 27, 2014

A prescription for better stroke care

Researchers found that giving a prescription to stroke patients before discharge increases short- and long-term stroke prevention by 70% and 40% respectively. The study suggests simple interventions like handing over prescriptions can improve patient care.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJournal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases·DateAug 27, 2014

Wolves susceptible to yawn contagion

Researchers found that wolves experience yawn contagion, with stronger social bonds increasing frequency, and females reacting faster than males to close associates' yawns. The results suggest a common ancestral trait of contagious yawning among mammals, revealing an emotional connection between individuals.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 27, 2014

The roots of human altruism

A study led by Judith Burkart reveals that human altruism is linked to cooperative breeding among primate species, where young are cared for by multiple group members. This behavior, not associated with advanced cognitive skills or social tolerance, may have contributed to human exceptional cognition.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 27, 2014

Xenon exposure shown to erase traumatic memories

Researchers at McLean Hospital found that xenon gas can reduce memories of traumatic events, potentially treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other memory-related disorders. The study used an animal model to demonstrate the effectiveness of xenon in blocking fear responses for up to two weeks.

SourceMcLean Hospital·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 27, 2014

Lifetime of fitness: A fountain of youth for bone and joint health?

Research suggests that comprehensive fitness and nutrition regimens can minimize bone and joint health decline and maintain overall physical health in seniors. The study recommends individualized exercise programs with resistance, endurance, flexibility, and balance training, as well as proper nutrition to optimize performance.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateAug 27, 2014

Protected areas proven to protect biodiversity

Researchers from Monash University and international collaborators analyzed past 30 years of research to determine the impact of protected areas on biodiversity. The study found that these areas generally have larger plant and animal populations and more species than adjacent non-protected areas.

SourceMonash University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateAug 27, 2014

In sync and in control?

A study by UCLA social scientists found that men who march in unison with others perceive a potential foe as smaller and less intimidating, leading to increased feelings of power and aggression. The researchers theorize that this phenomenon may be an evolutionary adaptation that favors individuals moving in coordination with groups.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalBiology Letters·DateAug 26, 2014