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Science News for March 21, 2014


Obesity and depression linked in teen girls says new Rutgers-Camden study

A new study by Rutgers University–Camden professor Naomi Marmorstein found that depression in early adolescence predicts obesity in late adolescence among female participants. Conversely, obesity in late adolescence predicts the onset of depression in early adulthood. The study suggests a reciprocal relationship between the two disorde...

SourceRutgers University·JournalInternational Journal of Obesity·DateMar 21, 2014

GDNF transfection promotes neuronal differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells

Researchers from Sichuan University found that glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) transfection promotes the neuronal differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. This enhancement is associated with increased expression of GDNF, nerve growth factor, and growth-associated protein-43. The study suggests a therape...

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateMar 21, 2014

Playing as black: Avatar race affects white video game players

A new study suggests that playing as a black character in violent video games can lead to stronger explicit negative attitudes toward blacks and display stronger implicit attitudes linking blacks to weapons. White players who played as black avatars showed more aggressive behavior against partners, with 115% more hot sauce forced on them.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSocial Psychological and Personality Science·DateMar 21, 2014

Electroacupuncture effect on depression and variation of polygenes expression

Researchers used a rat genomic gene-chip to profile hippocampal gene expression changes after electroacupuncture therapy. The results showed that electroacupuncture regulates the expression of specific genes involved in depression, including Vgf and Igf2. These findings suggest that electroacupuncture may be a useful treatment for depr...

SourceNeural Regeneration Research·JournalNeural Regeneration Research·DateMar 21, 2014

Unique chromosomes preserved in Swedish fossil

Researchers at Lund University have discovered undestroyed cell nuclei and individual chromosomes in a well-preserved fern fossil from the Jurassic period. The unique preservation is attributed to the sudden burial of the plant in a volcanic eruption, providing valuable insights into ancient evolutionary stability.

SourceLund University·JournalScience·DateMar 21, 2014

Cold snare polypectomy effective for removal of small colorectal polyps in patients on anticoagulants

A study published in GIE: Gastrointestinal Endoscopy found that cold snare polypectomy significantly reduces the risk of delayed bleeding in patients taking anticoagulants. The procedure outperformed conventional polypectomy in removing small colorectal polyps without causing significant harm to submucosal vessels.

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateMar 21, 2014

Genetic factor contributes to forgetfulness

Researchers found a connection between the DRD2 gene variant and everyday lapses in attention, including forgetfulness. The study suggests that individuals with this genetic variation are more likely to experience short-term memory lapses and distraction, which can have consequences in daily life.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNeuroscience Letters·DateMar 21, 2014

Stem cell findings may offer answers for some bladder defects and disease

Researchers at UC Davis successfully coax laboratory cultures of human stem cells into the specialized, unique cells needed to repair a patient's defective or diseased bladder. The breakthrough provides a pathway to regenerate replacement bladder tissue for patients whose bladders are too small or do not function properly.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalStem Cells Translational Medicine·DateMar 21, 2014

Homeless with TBI more likely to visit ER

A study of homeless and vulnerably housed individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) found they are more likely to visit emergency departments, be arrested or assaulted. The research highlights the importance of screening for TBI and providing support to manage behaviors after brain injuries.

SourceSt. Michael's Hospital·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateMar 21, 2014

Researchers at LSTM unlock the secret of multiple insecticide resistance in mosquitoes

Researchers at LSTM have discovered the combination of genetic mutations that enable mosquitoes to develop multiple and extreme-level resistance to insecticides. The study identifies two key genes, CYP6M2 and CYP6P3, which are highly expressed in resistant mosquitoes and can confer resistance across different classes of insecticides.

SourceLiverpool School of Tropical Medicine·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 21, 2014

Permafrost thaw: No upside

A new study found that growing season gains from permafrost thaw are outweighed by increased winter respiration, leading to enhanced carbon losses. The research suggests that the Arctic's stored carbon could reach catastrophic levels within a century if permafrost continues to thaw.