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Science News for December 19, 2006


Commodity promotion programs -- What's the beef?

Parke Wilde's analysis reveals that checkoff programs, such as 'Got Milk?' and 'Pork. The other white meat?', promote calorie-heavy foods like bacon cheeseburgers and barbecue pork ribs, which contradict the Dietary Guidelines' emphasis on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products.

SourceTufts University·JournalObesity·DateDec 19, 2006

Study gives clues about how deadly bacterium gains foothold

A team of University of Iowa researchers has made significant progress in understanding how the deadly Francisella tularensis bacterium evades the human immune system. The study found that the bacteria can inhibit the ability of white blood cells called neutrophils to kill it, allowing it to replicate and cause harm.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateDec 19, 2006

News tips from ACS Chemical Biology

Recent studies have made significant advancements in understanding HIV, bacterial quorum sensing, and cancer treatment. Researchers have discovered innovative strategies to combat HIV resistance and develop novel genetic circuits for industrial applications.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateDec 19, 2006

Batfish to the rescue!

A rare species of batfish has emerged as a potential savior for coral reefs, consuming large amounts of seaweed that were choking the reef. By removing a cage, scientists observed the batfish cleaning up most of the weed in just five days and completely clearing it in eight weeks.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 19, 2006

AGU journal highlights -- Dec. 19, 2006

Scientists analyzed data from a devastating 2006 Java earthquake that triggered a tsunami, leading to the development of an early warning system for earthquakes. Researchers also studied tectonic processes causing subsidence in Louisiana, while investigating ways to monitor volcanic explosivity through ground deformation near vents.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 19, 2006

New technologies for heart disease: Are drug-eluting stents worth the cost?

Recent studies have investigated the cost-effectiveness of drug-eluting stents compared to bare-metal stents. Two articles found that drug-eluting stents were used more frequently in private hospitals, but studies' quality and funding sources influenced their conclusions. The clinical indications for PCI have also been questioned due t...

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateDec 19, 2006