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Science News Archive June 2005 - Page 10


Page 10 of 15

Biodiversity works both ways

A recent study published in Ecology Letters explores the complex relationships between biodiversity and ecosystem function. The research reveals that both high and low levels of biodiversity can have negative consequences for ecosystem health, with intermediate levels often being the most beneficial.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalEcology Letters·DateJun 10, 2005

Deadly infectious entity of prions discovered

Scientists at the Salk Institute have discovered that a specific conformation of the prion protein is the infectious entity behind deadly prion diseases. By altering this shape, researchers may find a strategy to control these untreatable brain-wasting diseases.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature·DateJun 9, 2005

Media violence linked to concentration, self-control

Researchers found that media violence exposure may be associated with alterations in brain function, particularly in the frontal cortex, which is linked to attention and self-control. High exposure to violent media was linked to reduced activity in this area, while low exposure showed increased activity.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Computer Assisted Tomography·DateJun 9, 2005

JCI table of contents July 1, 2005

Researchers induce indefinite organ allograft survival in rhesus monkeys by stimulating recipient T cells with donor cells, generating immunosuppressive anergic T cells. These cells suppress renal allograft rejection without additional immunosuppressive agents.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 9, 2005

Adults and children use over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams in safe amounts

A study by Michigan Medicine found that adults use over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams in limited and appropriate ways, with a 73% compliance rate. In children, hydrocortisone cream was used primarily for insect bites, rashes, eczema, and itchy skin, with 72% of use following recommended guidelines.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateJun 9, 2005

Measuring a monster

The study highlights the catastrophic effects of the December 26, 2004 tsunami on Banda Aceh and Lohknga in Indonesia. Water reached 9 meters at the shoreline and over 15 meters inland, with wave-driven sea water inundating areas up to 25 meters above sea level.

It's never too late to start exercising

A seven-year study of over 3,000 black and white men and women aged 70 to 79 found that regular exercise reduced the risk of mobility problems by half. Participants who exercised regularly had lower rates of disability and health decline compared to those who were inactive.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateJun 9, 2005

A baby face forecasts election outcomes

A study by Brandeis University researchers found that baby-faced individuals are often perceived as less competent than those with more mature features. Babyfaced adults, regardless of sex or ethnicity, share characteristics such as a round face, large eyes, and small chin, which can lead to overgeneralization and perceptions of naivet...

SourceBrandeis University·JournalScience·DateJun 9, 2005

AGU journal highlights - 9 June 2005

Researchers studied the La Jolla submarine canyon's effect on ocean waves, finding that up to 60% of wave energy was reflected back into the open ocean. Another study tracked sulfur hexafluoride through the Denmark Strait to understand its role in driving global climate.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 9, 2005

Device traps, disables harmful bacteria

A team of engineers has successfully removed bioaerosols from a hospital therapy pool using a new generation of hybrid filters. The filters reduced concentrations of culturable bacteria by up to 80% and total bacteria by up to 76%, significantly improving pool safety and reducing illness risks.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalJournal of the Air & Waste Management Association·DateJun 9, 2005

Monkeying around to improve organ transplantation

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation shows that reinfusing anergic T cells into rhesus monkeys after kidney transplantation leads to prolonged and potentially indefinite graft survival without additional immunosuppressive agents. This approach has shown promise for improving organ transplantation outcomes in humans.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 9, 2005