Chinese takeaway in the Wadden Sea
In the Wadden Sea, shore crabs use a takeaway meal strategy to avoid competition for food. They first attempt to catch prey at the richest food spot but then move it to a nearby poor spot with fewer competitors.
Science News for September 25, 2007
Immune system modulation can halt liver failure in animals
Massachusetts General Hospital researchers have developed a new method to treat liver failure by modulating the immune response. The approach uses mesenchymal stem cells to reduce inflammation and promote organ regeneration, showing promising results in animal studies.
Mutation of the COX2 gene can double or treble a woman's risk of ovarian cancer
A study found that the -765G>C COX2 polymorphism increases the risk of ovarian cancer by nearly two-fold in C allele carriers and nearly three-fold in women under 53. The mutation may enhance COX-2 gene expression, inhibiting apoptosis and promoting tumour proliferation.
Antwerp artist and brilliant market thinker
Dutch researcher Micha Leeflang studied 107 of Joos van Cleve's paintings using infrared reflectography and dendrochronology to analyze his painting techniques, marketing strategies, and artistic success. The study found that Van Cleve employed a permanent group of assistants to maintain high-quality paintings.
Survey reveals ignorance and confusion about cancer amongst the elderly
A survey of elderly Spaniards found poor knowledge about cancer, with many believing it's contagious or a punishment. The study highlights the importance of improving cancer education programs for older adults.
US hospitals report infections increasing in frequency and cost
Staphylococcus aureus infections rose from 250,000 in 1998 to 390,000 in 2003, resulting in significant economic burden on hospitals.
New chemotherapy regimen prolongs survival in difficult-to-treat childhood brainstem gliomas
Researchers found a new chemotherapy regimen of irinotecan and cisplatin to be effective in treating childhood brainstem gliomas, with all six children showing significant tumor reduction. While the disease eventually progressed in three children, this is a promising breakthrough for a previously difficult-to-treat cancer.
Studies: Children obese due to a host of unhealthy pressures
New studies show that soft drink contracts in schools contribute to childhood obesity rates, with low-income areas having more fast-food options. Minority students face greater exposure to junk food through advertising and school policies.
Consumption of omega-3 fatty acids associated with decreased risk of type 1 diabetes
A study found that children with a high genetic risk of developing type 1 diabetes who consumed more omega-3 fatty acids had a reduced risk of pancreatic islet autoimmunity, which is linked to the disease. The researchers concluded that higher total omega-3 fatty acid intake was associated with a lower risk of IA.
Radiologists identify early brain marker of Alzheimer's disease
Researchers have identified a new brain marker that may help diagnose Alzheimer's disease earlier, using fMRI to monitor changes in brain activation and deactivation. The study found that impaired deactivation in the posteromedial cortices was closely related to memory impairment and neuropsychological testing scores.
Male voice pitch predicts reproductive success in hunter-gatherers
A study of the Hadza tribe found that males with lower vocal pitch had more surviving children, suggesting a link between voice pitch and fertility. The researchers believe that women may choose mates with deeper voices because they are perceived as better providers.
Baby booms and birth control in space
Researchers found a strong correlation between black hole presence and reduced star formation in heavy galaxies. The energy generated by massive black holes may heat up gas, preventing new stars from forming.
Sense of taste different in women with anorexia nervosa
Women with anorexia nervosa exhibit distinct differences in brain activity related to taste recognition, suggesting a link between appetite regulation and self-awareness. This finding may shed light on the underlying causes of anorexia nervosa, including distorted body image and difficulty responding to hunger.
Online game helps people recognize Internet scams
A new online game, Anti-Phishing Phil, has been developed by Carnegie Mellon University to educate people on how to identify fraudulent websites. The game improved players' accuracy from 69% to 87% in identifying legitimate and illegitimate web sites.
Simulation reveals how body repairs balance after damage
A computer simulation created by Georgia Tech and Emory researchers sheds light on how the nervous system adapts to sensory loss, enabling patients to regain balance despite impaired sensory information. The findings could lead to better diagnosis and rehabilitation for patients with balance problems.
Rehabilitation significantly underused after heart attack and bypass surgery
A Brandeis study found that fewer than one in five patients receive cardiac rehabilitation services after a heart attack or coronary bypass surgery, despite its proven benefits. The use of cardiac rehab varies significantly by age, gender, and geography.
George Mason University professor receives $2.6 million NIH grant to study Alzheimer's disease
Apolipoprotein E (APOE) genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease will be examined in a five-year project testing healthy adults aged 18-75. The study aims to identify markers sensitive to APOE, potentially leading to earlier detection and prevention of the disease.
Poll reveals public awareness of nanotech stuck at low level
A national survey found that only 6% of Americans have heard a lot about nanotechnology, with women and older Americans being the least aware. The public is seeking more information on health risks and benefits before purchasing nanotechnology-enhanced products.
SourceWoodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars/Science and Technology Innovation Program·DateSep 25, 2007
Weekend labor shortage
Two studies find a direct link between increased elective caesarean sections and decreased weekend births in Switzerland and Germany. The research suggests that hospitals schedule births during the week when they are fully resourced and staff is working 'normal' hours, leading to fewer births on weekends.
Tough enough for Mars, but deinococcus is from Earth
A recent study reveals Deinococcus geothermalis, a highly radiation-resistant bacterium, originated on Earth, not Mars. Contrary to previous speculation, the research defines a minimal set of genes responsible for its extreme resistance, offering hope for conferring this trait to other organisms.
Nosespray vaccine using aloe vera has exciting potential, researcher says
Researchers at Texas A&M University are developing an aloe vera-based nosespray vaccine that has shown promising results in animal trials. The vaccine uses a gel-like substance to cling to the inside of the nose, allowing it to stay longer and work more effectively than traditional liquid sprays.
'Making the Case': special double issue of Critical Inquiry
The double issue of Critical Inquiry delves into the concept of 'the case,' analyzing its use in law, medicine, psychoanalysis, and popular culture. Key findings include the ways in which cases are constructed to frame instances or make arguments, as well as their role in shaping our understanding of norms and expertise.
Victims of child maltreatment more likely to perpetrate youth violence, intimate partner violence
Researchers found victims of child maltreatment more likely to perpetrate youth violence and intimate partner violence. The study analyzed data from over 9,300 respondents and found a strong link between childhood abuse and future perpetration of these violent behaviors.
Clever plants chat over their own network
Plants form networks to warn each other of enemies and threats, allowing them to strengthen their defenses. However, these same networks can be used by plant viruses to rapidly spread and infect other plants.
Program for treating depression appears to improve work productivity, be cost-effective
A depression outreach-treatment program improved symptoms, job retention, and hours worked among employees compared to usual care. The program's financial benefits for employers include recovered hiring, training, and salary costs.
Hormone-driven effects on eating, stress mediated by same brain region
A new study reveals that the CRF2 hormone receptor system is involved in both feeding behavior and stress responses, suggesting it may not be an ideal target for obesity treatments. The researchers found that stimulating this receptor increased stress-like behaviors and reduced food intake, but not without inducing anxiety-like effects.
The eyes can be the portal to a person's health
A new technique using a corneal confocal microscope may enable the diagnosis of diabetic neuropathy, a nerve disorder affecting up to 50% of diabetic patients. This instant, non-invasive test could lead to earlier treatment and improved health outcomes for millions of Australians.
NASA finds Greenland snow melting hit record high in high places
A new NASA study reveals record-breaking snow melting in high-altitude areas of Greenland, with melting occurring 25-30 days longer than average. This trend is expected to impact Earth's energy budget and contribute to sea level rise.
Workplace depression screening and enhanced treatment improves productivity, lowers employer costs
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that workplace depression screening and enhanced treatment can significantly improve employee health and productivity. Employees who received intervention were 40% more likely to have recovered from their depression and worked an average of two more hours per week.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateSep 25, 2007
A new look at the proton
Physicists investigate the spin of protons using a novel method that separates quark and gluon contributions to the total spin. This discovery has implications for understanding spin's role in various applications, including medical imaging.
City birds better than rural species in coping with human disruption
A study published by the University of Washington found that urban bird species can endure a wider range of environmental conditions than their rural counterparts. The researchers discovered that these birds have adapted to survive in cities, which are often harsher habitats than their natural environments.
Under-used colon cancer screening test is effective
The Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) detects human blood in the stool and has a high sensitivity of 81.8% for detecting colorectal cancers. FIT also has a higher specificity than traditional guaiac tests, reducing false positives and unnecessary procedures.
Do migratory birds 'see' the magnetic field?
Researchers have identified a functional neuronal connection between retinal neurons and the brain's Cluster N region in migratory birds. This link suggests that migratory birds use their visual system to detect the geomagnetic field, supporting the hypothesis that they can 'see' the magnetic field.
Phase II study shows HRPC patients with bone metastases see improved survival with ZD4054
The Phase II study found a 45% reduction in risk of death and improved median overall survival of 24.5 months for patients treated with ZD4054 10mg once-daily compared to placebo.
Possible replacement found for common colorectal cancer test
A new version of the colon cancer screening test effectively detects colorectal cancer and may replace the current unrehydrated guaiac test. The fecal immunochemical test had a sensitivity of 81.8% for detecting colorectal cancers, outperforming the guaiac test's 64.3% sensitivity rate.
SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 25, 2007
How adhesive protein causes malaria
The study identified specific parts of PfEMP1 that are likely to bond more strongly with receptors in blood vessels, producing a stronger adhesive effect. These protein parts are common in parasites causing severe malaria, and their identification could lead to the development of a vaccine to prevent the disease.
Research at Rice may help explain aspects of synesthesia
A Rice University research team has found that damage to the ventrolateral nucleus (VL) of the thalamus can lead to cross-wiring in the brain, resulting in synesthesia. The study, led by Tony Ro, used neuroimaging and behavioral studies on a patient with a rare stroke to demonstrate the VL's role in sensory processing.
Patients with coronary artery disease appear to have increased prevalence of colorectal tumors
A study found that patients with newly diagnosed coronary artery disease had nearly twice the prevalence of colorectal tumors compared to the general population. Colorectal cancer is associated with chronic inflammation, a common pathway with atherosclerosis and CAD.
Molecular profiling can accurately predict survival in colon cancer patients
A new method of molecular profiling has accurately predicted which stage II colon cancer patients are most likely to have their disease recur after surgery. The analysis identified two groups with distinct clinical outcomes, allowing for more accurate selection of patients who would benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy.
Printing in 3-D
Researchers believe 3D printing will revolutionize consumer goods, individualized custom products, and product development with its ability to print solid objects almost instantly. The technology allows for rapid prototyping, digital downloads, and on-demand production, making traditional retail models obsolete.
Survival data presented from phase II study of hormone-resistant prostate cancer patients
The Phase II EPOC study found that ZD4054, an endothelin A receptor antagonist, showed no difference in progression-free survival but reported encouraging overall survival data. The compound may have potential to increase median overall survival time for men with asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic metastatic HRPC.
MR spectroscopy identifies breast cancer, reduces biopsies
A study using MR spectroscopy with MRI has successfully identified breast cancers in non-mass enhancing lesions without invasive biopsies. By measuring choline compounds, MR spectroscopy provides specific and sensitive results, reducing the need for unnecessary biopsies.
Toll charges reduce travel time
A simulation model predicts optimal toll charges to minimize travel time and maximize revenues while reducing traffic jams. The model considers factors such as traveler flexibility and preferences, providing policy makers with a quicker insight into the outcomes of policy measures.
Study shows how the zebrafish gets his stripe
Researchers found that molecule Sdf plays a crucial role in dictating the pattern of at least one stripe in zebrafish. By studying the effects of Sdf on melanophores, they discovered how this molecule influences their migration and positioning.
Fruits and veggies not likely linked to colon cancer risk
A recent study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found no strong association between fruit and vegetable intake and colon cancer risk. However, a lower risk of distal colon cancer was observed among those consuming high amounts of fruits and vegetables.
SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 25, 2007
Stem cells show promise for treating Huntington's disease
Scientists have discovered a new approach to treat Huntington's disease using stem-cell therapy, which created thousands of new medium spiny neurons in mice. The treatment resulted in improved health and lifespan for the treated mice.
SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 25, 2007
Tufts University biologists link Huntington's disease to health benefits in young
A new study by Tufts University biologists suggests that people with Huntington's disease have better health earlier in life, leading to increased offspring production. The researchers propose that elevated levels of tumor suppressor protein p53 may contribute to these health benefits and improved immune function.
New molecular clock from LLNL and CDC indicates smallpox evolved earlier than believed
A new study using a molecular clock indicates that smallpox evolved earlier than previously believed, with divergence times ranging from 16,000 to 68,000 years ago. The research provides a framework for studying the natural history of other diseases and suggests that local pools of old strains existed in geographically dispersed areas.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 25, 2007
Saltwater crocodiles can find their way home
A satellite tracking study by The University of Queensland, Australia Zoo and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service found that saltwater crocodiles can swim long distances for days on end. Three relocated crocodiles were tracked swimming between 10 and 30 km per day.
Divorce reduces chance of new, successful relationship
Research suggests that previous divorce experiences significantly impact a person's chances of entering into a new, successful relationship. Divorced individuals often prefer less committed types of relationships and have different partner preferences than those without a divorce experience.
Breast cancer susceptibility gene predicts outcome and response to treatment in lung cancer
Researchers found that high BRCA1 expression in non-small cell lung cancer patients is associated with poor survival and increased risk of death. Patients with high BRCA1 levels may benefit from taxane-based chemotherapy, while those with low levels may not respond to cisplatin-based treatments.
Scientists, policymakers and industry leaders gather to discuss ocean iron fertilization
Researchers will gather to share scientific observations and discuss issues involved in altering the ocean's chemistry. The conference aims to inform policymakers, industrial interests, and environmentalists about the potential efficacy and consequences of iron fertilization.
American Cancer Society report finds breast cancer death rate continues to drop
The American Cancer Society report shows a decline in breast cancer mortality rates, but African American women and women of other racial and ethnic groups have benefited less from advances. The report highlights the importance of increased mammography screening and reduced obesity to combat breast cancer.
Other highlights in the Sept. 25 JNCI
A study of deceased men found that prostate cancer diagnosis depends more on the biopsied area than sample number, suggesting a new approach to design biopsies. Alternative trial designs and targeting tumor microenvironments may also improve cancer treatment outcomes.
SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 25, 2007
PET scans can accurately detect a breast tumor's response to chemotherapy
Research shows PET scans with fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) can predict a breast tumor's response to chemotherapy and a patient's likelihood of survival. Women with high initial FDG uptake and significant reduction after treatment are more likely to achieve complete response.
'Kissing cousins'
A study on Bedouin villages in Lebanon found that first-cousin marriages increase infant mortality risk, but short birth intervals have a more significant impact. The research analyzed 1,399 children and found that infants born to first cousins have over double the odds of dying compared to non-first cousins.
Scientists spot sneaky 'neurodegenerative' iron at the European synchrotron
Researchers at ESRF and CNRS used chemical nano-imaging to visualize iron distribution in dopaminergic neurons. They found that iron is stored within dopamine vesicles, which helps explain the molecular mechanisms involved in Parkinson's disease.
Breast cancer survivors optimistic, yet lack critical information on reducing recurrence
A survey of 543 breast cancer survivors found that women's knowledge about actions to reduce recurrence is low, despite being optimistic about their future. The majority reported feeling stronger and more hopeful after diagnosis.
Online game feeds music search engine project at UC San Diego
The UC San Diego researchers have created an online game called Listen Game that allows players to label songs with words, generating crucial data for building a music search engine. The system uses machine learning to train computers to annotate songs accurately.
Study expected to boost research for hearing and balance therapies
A new method has been developed to grow inner ear hair cells in the laboratory, providing a reliable source of cells for research. This breakthrough is expected to accelerate therapeutic advancements for millions of people worldwide affected by hearing and balance impairments.
SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 25, 2007
Researchers set new record for brightness of quantum dots
By placing quantum dots on a specially designed photonic crystal, researchers enhanced fluorescence intensity by up to 108 times. This breakthrough could lead to high-brightness light-emitting diodes, optical switches and biosensors for detecting DNA and other biomolecules.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 25, 2007