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Science News Archive 2007 - Page 19


Page 19 of 203

Cancer-resistant mouse discovered

A team of researchers has discovered a tumor-suppressor gene called Par-4 that kills cancer cells but not normal cells. The mice born with this gene live longer and have no toxic side effects, making it a potentially therapeutic application for treating cancer without harming patients.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalCancer Research·DateNov 27, 2007

Dementia screening in primary care: Is it time?

Primary care physicians should prioritize identifying dementia red flags over routine screenings for individuals without symptoms, according to a commentary published in JAMA. Dementia red flags include medication issues, multiple hospitalizations, and agitation, which can help identify high-risk patients who require diagnostic testing.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJAMA·DateNov 27, 2007

Tobacco marketers targeting teens near schools

A Canadian study reveals tobacco marketers are targeting teens near high schools by marketing in retail shops, often located near schools with high smoking prevalence. The study found that these stores offered lower prices, more promotions, and fewer health warnings, creating an environment that promotes student smoking.

How to get a man to enjoy a chick flick

A study published in Journal of Consumer Research found that men are more likely to enjoy melodramatic films if they know it's fictional. High-empathy individuals tend to dislike fact-based stories, while those with low empathy can appreciate fiction.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateNov 27, 2007

Generating hydrogen from biodiesel waste

A new method to convert low-value glycerol from biodiesel production into a hydrogen-rich gas offers a promising solution for the transportation sector. The process, developed by Dr. Valerie Dupont and her team at the University of Leeds, produces a high-value product in demand for fertilisers, food production, and chemical plants.

Study suggests link between obesity, poor bone health

A University of Georgia study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that obesity may be bad for bone health in young women. The research used advanced three-dimensional bone scans on 115 women aged 18-19 and found that obese participants had weaker bones by 8-9% compared to those with normal body fat.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateNov 26, 2007

Is your heart aging faster than you are?

A new MUHC study found that informing patients about their cardiovascular risk and receiving ongoing feedback from their doctor leads to greater drops in lipid levels. Patients with higher risk profiles experienced a greater impact on their risk profile, highlighting the importance of communicating calculated cardiovascular risk.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 26, 2007

Environmental exodus

A study by Rafael Reuveny examines the impact of climate change on population migration and conflict. He advocates for a five-step approach to minimize climate change-induced migration and violent conflict in receiving areas.

SourceSpringer·JournalHuman Ecology·DateNov 26, 2007

Penn State gets Critical Zone Observatory

The Shale Hills Critical Zone Observatory will investigate how soils form from bedrock, affecting water movement and groundwater flow. Researchers will conduct field experiments and implement high-performance computers to predict weathering rates and model the impact of forest regolith on local water resources.

Drugs may not delay onset of dementia; and more

Researchers examined the effectiveness of cholinesterase inhibitors in delaying the onset of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. The study found no significant reduction in the rate of progression from mild cognitive impairment to dementia, suggesting that these drugs may not be beneficial for patients with MCI.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 26, 2007

Pol3 mutation disrupts organ growth

A mutation in RNA polymerase III enzyme disrupts organ growth in zebrafish, with specific tissues like the intestine being severely affected. The study provides hope for a therapeutic application against cancer by targeting the enzyme's role in protein production.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 26, 2007

Penn research shows transcranial magnetic stimulation effective in treating major depression

A study by Penn researchers found that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a safe and effective treatment for patients with major depression who have tried other options without success. The non-invasive technique has minimal side effects and can be administered via the scalp, avoiding bodily side effects.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateNov 26, 2007

Red blood cell transfusions under scrutiny

A new study by University of Bristol scientists found that red blood cell transfusions may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke in cardiac surgery patients, regardless of haemoglobin levels or age. The research suggests a three-fold increase in complications arising from lack of oxygen to key organs.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalCirculation·DateNov 26, 2007