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Science News Archive May 2014 - Page 18


Page 18 of 31

Study finds free fitness center-based exercise referral program not well utilized

A study from Boston University School of Medicine found that a free fitness center-based exercise referral program was not well utilized among low-income, multi-ethnic women with chronic disease risk factors. Despite providing access and support, fewer than half of the women activated their memberships or achieved consistent attendance...

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Community Health·DateMay 14, 2014

Study sheds light on penguins first year far from home

In the first study of its kind, scientists tracked young king penguins exploring new habitats and eventually developing their foraging skills similarly to their parents. The study found that young penguins undertake large-scale movements at sea and use similar habitat to find food as adults.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 14, 2014

Environmental conditions may impact bird migration

Wind speeds on migration predicted annual survival, male arrival date, female egg laying, and productivity of yellow warblers. Higher westerly wind speeds associated with lower apparent annual survival due to increased in-flight mortality risk.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 14, 2014

Texas A&M-led study shows how 'body clock' dysregulation underlies obesity, more

A Texas A&M-led study has found that body clock dysregulation plays a key role in the development of metabolic diseases, including obesity and diabetes. The researchers discovered that overnutrition causes circadian clock dysregulation, leading to pro-inflammatory activity in adipose tissue and worsening insulin resistance.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 14, 2014

How cone snail venom minimizes pain

Researchers have discovered how cone snail venom Vc1.1 works to reduce neuropathic pain by targeting specific calcium channels in neurons. This breakthrough could lead to the development of synthetic versions of Vc1.1 to treat certain types of chronic pain.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of General Physiology·DateMay 14, 2014

Obesity associated with longer hospital stays, higher costs in total knee replacement patients

A recent study found that obesity is associated with longer hospital stays and higher costs for total knee replacement patients, regardless of comorbidities. The study analyzed data from over 8,000 patients and found that every 5-unit increase in BMI beyond 30 kg/m² resulted in higher hospitalization costs and longer hospital stays.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateMay 14, 2014

Microchip-like technology allows single-cell analysis

Researchers at Duke University developed a chip-like device that can sort, store, and retrieve hundreds of thousands of individual living cells in minutes. This technology revolutionizes research by allowing fast and efficient control of individual cells, enabling the study of small but significant differences within populations.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 2014

Unified superconductors

Scientists have made a breakthrough in understanding superconductors, proposing a single theoretical framework that could apply to various materials. The unified model suggests a common explanation for the phenomenon, which could lead to more efficient and cost-effective superconductor applications.

SourceInternational School of Advanced Studies (SISSA)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 14, 2014

Research shows hope for normal heart function in children with fatal heart disease

A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology shows that nearly one-fourth of children diagnosed with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) can recover normal size and function of their hearts within two years. Dr. Steven Lipshultz's team found that appropriate medical treatment and management can lead to...

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMay 14, 2014

Elephant seals' carbon monoxide levels are as high as heavy human smokers'

Researchers discovered that elephant seals have high levels of carboxyhemoglobin, similar to those found in heavy human smokers. The team suggests that this may provide protective effects against oxidative damage, potentially benefiting the animals' health. Further study is needed to fully understand the significance of these findings.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateMay 14, 2014

Too much prolonged high-intensity exercise risks heart health

Two studies indicate that more intense exercise does not always mean better for heart health. Overdosing on high-intensity exercise may actually increase the risk of death from a heart attack or stroke in those with existing heart disease. Moderate exercise at moderate intensity is key to maximizing cardiovascular benefits.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalHeart·DateMay 14, 2014

Inhibiting protein family helps mice survive radiation exposure, Stanford study finds

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine found that inhibiting a protein family helps mice survive radiation exposure. The study suggests a possible treatment for people unintentionally exposed to large amounts of radiation. The technique protected intestinal cells from damage, reducing side effects like diarrhea and nausea.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateMay 14, 2014

First diplodocid sauropod from South America found

A new sauropod dinosaur species, Leinkupal laticauda, has been discovered in Argentina, shedding light on the survival of Diplodocidae in South America. The fossil findings suggest that the extinction event at the end of the Jurassic or beginning of the Cretaceous period may not have been global.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 14, 2014