Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive April 2007


Page 1 of 17

Pistachios lower cholesterol, provide antioxidants

Researchers found that pistachio amounts of 1.5 ounces reduced LDL cholesterol levels by 11.6% and total cholesterol by 8.4%, while the higher dose showed significant reductions in lipoprotein ratios. Pistachios also increased antioxidants in the blood, which may help reduce inflammation.

Teens with migraine at greater risk of suicide

A study by the American Academy of Neurology found that teens with migraine headaches are at a higher risk of suicide and more likely to experience other psychiatric disorders such as depression and panic disorder. The research highlights the importance of screening for psychiatric disorders in teens with chronic daily headaches.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 30, 2007

1 in 3 HIV positive gay men report unprotected sex

A community survey of gay men in London, Manchester, and Brighton found that nearly one-third of HIV-positive men reported having unprotected sex, while almost one-fifth of HIV-negative men also engaged in this behavior. The study highlights the need for renewed efforts to boost HIV diagnosis and curb risk behaviors.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalSexually Transmitted Infections·DateApr 30, 2007

Simple screening can help decrease teen risk behaviors

A new study reveals that a simple and brief screening measure can quickly identify the broad range of risk behaviors found among adolescents. The adolescent risk inventory (ARI) identifies behavior problems that may prevent teens from engaging in other risky behaviors.

SourceLifespan·JournalChild Psychiatry & Human Development·DateApr 30, 2007

News tips from ACS Chemical Biology

The journal ACS Chemical Biology explores recent discoveries in cellular function, including the inhibition of new blood vessel formation using an antifungal drug. Nanoparticles are also shown to enhance the delivery of short interfering RNAs to cells, potentially aiding clinical applications.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Chemical Biology·DateApr 30, 2007

What people say may not be what they know

Two researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia argue that talk may not reflect true knowledge, highlighting the importance of observing non-verbal behavior. By recognizing social relationships and political influences on verbal answers, scientists can uncover ecologically useful knowledge from local environmental knowledge.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalHuman Ecology·DateApr 30, 2007

Lonesome George is not alone among Galápagos tortoises

Researchers have discovered a genetically pure Pinta tortoise, potentially leading to species recovery for the endangered giant Galápagos tortoise. The findings offer hope that Lonesome George's legacy can be transformed from an enduring symbol of rarity into a conservation success story.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 30, 2007

More research needed to involve families in psychosocial interventions

Researchers found that family-oriented psychosocial interventions have a small but promising effect on the emotional well-being of patients and their family members. The studies showed varying results, with some factors influencing the outcome, highlighting the need for further research to develop effective methods.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateApr 30, 2007

How to look at dinosaur tracks

Researchers provide a guide for geologists to account for various factors, including erosion types and surface conditions, when examining dinosaur tracks. They describe different levels of preservation, such as true tracks and undertracks, which reveal the squishing and displacement of sand when dinosaurs took steps.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalThe Journal of Geology·DateApr 30, 2007

BCM, Rice make major advance in structural biology

Scientists from BCM and Rice University discover a new way to analyze protein movement, making it easier to classify and scrutinize active sites implicated in cancer and other diseases. The breakthrough uses a mathematical algorithm in conjunction with X-ray crystallography to narrow down possible ways a protein might flex and bend.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 30, 2007

Pistachios may calm acute stress reaction

A Penn State study found that eating pistachios reduced the body's response to stress in individuals with high cholesterol but normal blood pressure. The 3-ounce pistachio diet was most effective in reducing systolic blood pressure and improving vascular relaxation.

Hawaiian treasure, macadamia nuts good for the heart

A study by Penn State researchers found that incorporating macadamia nuts into a heart-healthy diet can reduce total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The Healthy Heart diet with macadamia nuts was compared to a standard American diet in a controlled feeding study.

When cookies catch the cooties

A study by Duke University researchers found that products in clear packaging are vulnerable to negative properties being transferred from nearby products. This phenomenon, called 'product contagion,' can lead consumers to perceive affected products as less appealing.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateApr 30, 2007

Researchers create interactive map with Google technology to track avian flu spread

A team of researchers created an interactive 'supermap' using Google Earth technology to visualize the mutations and spread of the avian flu around the globe. The map allowed users to analyze movements and changes in genetic blueprints of known avian flu sub-strains, providing insights into viral spread and potential future outbreaks.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalSystematic Biology·DateApr 30, 2007