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Science News for December 1, 2005


MicroRNA may have fail-safe role in limb development

Researchers have identified a specific microRNA - miR 196 - playing a protective role in hindlimb development, but not forelimb development, suggesting a fail-safe mechanism to regulate gene expression. This finding may be useful in understanding birth defects and has implications for the regulation of protein expression in limbs.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalNature·DateDec 1, 2005

Study looks at factors influencing African-American women's decisions to join cancer screening trial

African-American women who joined a cancer screening trial had better understanding of cancer and early detection, motivated by loved one's experience with cancer. The study suggests targeted strategies to improve recruitment, including providing health benefits and informing physicians about clinical trials.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateDec 1, 2005

Atherosclerosis studied at the cellular level

A recent study found that nitric oxide, normally considered protective against atherosclerosis, can be converted into peroxynitrite, causing cell dysfunction and death. This reaction activates the ER stress response pathway, leading to devastating cytotoxic effects and accelerating atherosclerosis.

Needle-free immunizations

Researchers are developing new methods for immunization, including transdermal and nasal delivery, which could prevent needle-caused infections and reduce economic burdens. Interdisciplinary efforts are underway to make needle-free immunizations a common practice.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Reviews Immunology·DateDec 1, 2005

Child poverty going down, due to more mothers working

A study by Cornell University researchers found that child poverty rates have decreased in recent years, particularly among children whose mothers work full-time. However, significant racial and ethnic disparities persist, with black and Hispanic children facing higher poverty rates than their white counterparts.

SourceCornell University·JournalSocial Science Quarterly·DateDec 1, 2005

Iron-rich rice improves iron status of women

A nine-month study found that consuming biofortified, iron-rich rice improved the iron status of women, increasing it by 20% compared to traditional rice. Non-anemic women with low body iron reserves and those who consumed more rice showed the greatest improvements.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateDec 1, 2005

Crystal sponges excel at sopping up CO2

Researchers have invented a new class of materials called metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) that can store vast amounts of carbon dioxide. One MOF, dubbed MOF-177, sops up 140% of its weight in CO2 at room temperature and reasonable pressure.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 1, 2005

Chandra proves black hole influence is far reaching

Scientists have discovered energetic plumes extending 300,000 light years into a massive galaxy cluster. The plumes are caused by explosive venting from a supermassive black hole and demonstrate the far-reaching influence of a black hole on intergalactic distances.

SourceChandra X-ray Center·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateDec 1, 2005

'Jammed Networks' may clear the way for better materials

Researchers at NIST and UPenn found that jammed networks formed by carbon nanotubes or nanofibers can create a continuous, heat-shield layer on top of polymer matrices, suppressing vigorous bubbling and improving flammability resistance. Optimal gel concentrations for single- and multi-walled carbon nanotubes were 0.5% and 1%, respecti...

JCI table of contents: December 1, 2005

In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, Columbia University researchers discovered that replacing leptin in lean individuals who lost weight restored fat mass and reversed metabolic changes. The findings suggest that therapeutics targeting the leptin signaling pathway may assist in maintaining reduced body weight...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 1, 2005

Study confirms that stents releasing medication help keep heart bypass vein grafts open

A new study published in Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions found that drug-eluting stents reduce the incidence of restenosis, heart attacks, and death by fourfold compared to conventional stents. Medicated stents were effective in keeping vein grafts open without affecting other parts of the bypass.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateDec 1, 2005

Study shows long-term benefits of psychotherapy for PTSD among youths after natural disaster

A recent study examined the impact of the 1988 Spitak earthquake on adolescents in Armenia and found that psychotherapy provided sustained benefits even 1.5 years post-disaster. Untreated adolescents had higher levels of PTSD and depressive symptoms, while treated adolescents saw significant improvements in their conditions.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateDec 1, 2005

People in committed relationships are happier

A Cornell University study reveals that people in committed relationships experience higher levels of happiness and well-being compared to those in casual relationships. The stronger the relationship's commitment, the greater the happiness and sense of well-being among partners.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateDec 1, 2005