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Science News for March 30, 2006


Katrina exposed emergency response weakness

The article discusses how Hurricane Katrina's aftermath revealed poor planning and decision-making by public officials. It recommends changes to the national emergency management system to improve disaster response and recovery. The lessons from Katrina can only be learned by shedding light on current policy and practices.

SourceSAGE·JournalThe Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science·DateMar 30, 2006

International study questions health benefits of moderate drinking

A new meta-analysis of 54 studies found no clear link between moderate drinking and reduced risk of premature death from all causes. The analysis controlled for age and illness effects that skewed previous findings, suggesting that moderate drinking may not be as protective as thought. Further research is needed to confirm these results.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAddiction Research & Theory·DateMar 30, 2006

Infections might trigger deep vein thrombosis

A large-scale study in the UK found that both respiratory and urinary tract infections increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis. The risk is particularly high in the first two weeks after infection. Researchers suggest a causal relation between infections and venous thromboembolism.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 30, 2006

Plants give pests sock in the gut

Researchers have discovered a plant enzyme called Mir1-CP that protects corn from pests by degrading insects' peritrophic matrix. The enzyme accumulates at feeding sites within an hour of caterpillar feeding, causing impaired nutrient utilization and inhibiting growth.

New human retrovirus originated in mice

A new human retrovirus, XMRV, has been found in patients with a rare type of prostate cancer, suggesting a possible link between the virus and cancer development. The discovery was made using a microarray-based screening method and found that prostate cancers with specific genetic mutations were more likely to harbor XMRV infection.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateMar 30, 2006

Scientists elucidate the kinome of key model organism

Researchers at Boston Biomedical utilize bioinformatics to study the kinome of Dictyostelium, a model organism revealing unique enzymes involved in cell biology. The study identifies 46 conserved kinases across all organisms, providing insights into fundamental cellular processes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateMar 30, 2006

Sleep apnea treatment benefits the heart

A study found that sleep apnea treatment improved the shape and pumping action of the heart, reducing high blood pressure and daytime sleepiness. Treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices also reduced cardiovascular risks and improved overall health outcomes in patients.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMar 30, 2006

Gold nanoparticles emit intense heat, study finds

Researchers at Ohio University have discovered that gold nanoparticles can heat an area significantly larger than the nanoparticle itself, making them useful for targeting specific cells or objects. The particles' heating properties are precise and can be controlled using bio-linkers to affect specific targets.

SourceOhio University·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 30, 2006