Huge progress made using insecticide-treated bednets from 2000-2007
Insecticide-treated bednet coverage increased from 1.8% in 2000 to 18.5% by 2007, leaving 89.6 million children unprotected, with 25% in Nigeria alone.
Science News Archive 2008
Browse by Month - 2008
Page 30 of 240
Money motivates doctors to reduce ethnic differences in heart disease treatments
A study found that pay for performance schemes improved coronary heart disease management across ethnic groups, with fewer disparities in care. The scheme also led to increased blood pressure control and statin prescriptions among South Asians and whites, but not among blacks.
Biomedical engineers' detective work reveals antibiotic mechanism
Researchers reveal a surprising mechanism of action for certain antibiotics, finding that they trigger the production of hydroxyl radicals, contributing to bacterial cell death. The study identifies potential new targets for antibiotic development and could help rejuvenate older antibiotics.
Scientists self-censor in response to political controversy
A survey of researchers found that many engaged in self-censorship after public debate about NIH grant funding, removing politically sensitive language and stopping certain topics. The study also showed that some researchers strengthened their commitment to complete their research despite controversy.
Breaking BubR1 mimics genetic shuffle seen in cancer cells
A study by Fox Chase Cancer Center researchers reveals that BubR1 protein plays a crucial role in chromosome distribution during mitosis. Mutating this protein may cause genetic shuffling similar to that seen in cancer cells, making it a potential target for cancer treatment enhancement.
Study helps identify beachgoers at increased risk of skin cancer
A study found that beachgoers who intended to tan and used the least amount of sunscreen were at higher risk of skin cancer. The researchers identified three groups with distinct characteristics and sun protection behaviors, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to reduce UV radiation exposure.
Researchers find link between nicotine addiction and autism
Scientists have identified a relationship between two proteins in the brain linked to both nicotine addiction and autism. The discovery suggests that existing drugs used to curb nicotine addiction might serve as a basis for potential therapies to alleviate autism symptoms.
Genetic risk factors may tailor prostate cancer screening approaches
African-American men and those with a family history of prostate cancer are at higher risk due to genetic factors. Genetic markers associated with increased risk have been found to be more prevalent in these populations, suggesting they may be used for personalized screening recommendations.
Non-white med students reject therapies associated with their culture
A study found that non-white medical students are less likely to adopt complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices, while white students view these therapies more positively. The survey of medical students measured attitudes towards CAM during four years of medical training.
'Enlightened' atoms stage nano-riot againsts uniformity
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have discovered that certain atoms can move apart and rejoin together under specific conditions, creating a phenomenon known as a 'nano-riot'. This behavior can be controlled using laser light, enabling the creation of tiny computer components with reduced heat emissions.
Pinning down the fleeting Internet: Web crawler archives historical data for easy searching
Researchers have developed an application called Zoetrope that allows users to easily search and analyze historical web data. The system captures and stores archived websites, enabling users to view past versions of sites and track changes over time.
Pain and itch responses regulated separately
Scientists have determined that pain and itch are regulated by different molecular mechanisms. Researchers at WashU Medicine separated itch and pain sensations in mice, a finding that could have important implications for treating both pain and chronic itching. GRPR gene plays key role in transmitting itching sensations.
Physical activity after bariatric surgery improves weight loss, quality of life
A new study by researchers from The Miriam Hospital's Centers for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine suggests that increased physical activity after bariatric surgery can lead to better postoperative outcomes, including greater weight loss and improved health-related quality of life. More than two-thirds of participants who became acti...
Glacial erosion changes internal mountain structure, responses to plate tectonics
Research reveals how intense glacial erosion changes the St. Elias mountain range's internal structure, responding to plate tectonics and climate change. The study provides new insights into the impact of glaciers on mountain formation and evolution.
Study investigates ethnic disparities in treatment of trauma patients
A study analyzing data from 8,563 trauma patients found no significant differences in the initial assessment and management of injuries based on ethnicity. However, minority patients were more likely to be younger, less insured, and treated at public hospitals.
Drug therapy for premature infants destroys brain cells in mice
New research reveals that commonly used drugs to treat chronic lung damage in premature infants can cause brain cell damage, potentially leading to cognitive and motor-control issues. Synthetic glucocorticoids like dexamethasone and betamethasone were found to be toxic to neural progenitor cells in mice.
Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine
A new ACP clinical practice guideline states that second-generation antidepressants are equally effective in treating depression but have different adverse effects. The guideline recommends assessing patient status and modifying treatment if necessary, to maximize therapeutic response while minimizing side effects.
Behavior/lifestyle factors influence cancer risk among the elderly
Researchers found associations between lifestyle, behavioral, and demographic variables on cancer risk among the elderly, including moderate physical activities decreasing cancer risk. Tobacco consumption was also linked to lung cancer, while comorbidities increased breast and prostate cancer risk.
Genes associated with fat metabolism could increase kidney cancer risk
Research identified three genes linked to fat processing that could raise kidney cancer risk, according to a study presented at the American Association for Cancer Research. Variants of nitric oxide synthase 2A and prostaglandin-endoperoxide 2 were found to increase risk, while apolipoprotein E1 was associated with reduced risk.
Canada's supervised injection site is cost-effective
A cost-effectiveness analysis of Insite, Canada's supervised safe injection site, concludes that it saves $14 million over 10 years while preventing 920 life-years lost to HIV and Hepatitis C. The study suggests that Insite is almost certainly cost-saving to Canadian society.
Mayo researchers identify dangerous 'two-faced' protein crucial to breast cancer spread and growth
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have discovered a 'two-faced' protein, p120 catenin, that promotes both tumor growth and metastasis in breast cancer. The protein acts like a tumor suppressor when bound to E-cadherin but becomes a tumor promoter when it's not.
Study helps clarify role of vitamin D in cancer therapy
Research reveals vitamin D's role in regulating colon cancer cell behavior by modulating gene expression and cytoskeleton structure. The study highlights a previously unknown pathway governing vitamin D's diverse effects on cancer cells.
Conference report highlights new research into drug delivery to treat eye disease
Researchers are exploring new techniques to combat visual impairment and blindness by delivering drugs through the eye. Alternative methods such as microneedles, nanoparticles and polymer carriers are being investigated to improve drug delivery and reduce side effects.
New study bolsters beliefs about DNA repair
Researchers found that HP1 proteins help cells fix damaged DNA by latching onto methylated histones. The study used mouse models to show that one missing version of the protein leads to genomic instability and brain defects.
Forests may play overlooked role in regulating climate
Scientists at the University of New Hampshire have discovered a link between forest foliage nitrogen levels and canopy albedo, which could influence climate change predictions. The study suggests that trees with high foliar nitrogen have a two-fold effect on climate by absorbing more CO2 and reflecting more solar radiation.
Breast cancer common among women with family history but without BRCA1 or BRCA2
A study found that women with a strong family history of breast cancer but without BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations are at increased risk for developing the disease. These women had a four-fold higher risk than average, highlighting the importance of genetic testing and preventive measures.
Portuguese scientists discover new mechanism that regulates formation of blood vessels
Researchers have identified a key signaling pathway, Notch, that stimulates endothelial cells to form new blood vessels in wounds. This discovery has significant implications for treating chronic skin wounds in diabetic patients and those with morbid obesity.
While China's regional influence grows, US remains key security and economic partner in East Asia, RAND study finds
A recent RAND Corporation study suggests that the US is still a vital security and economic partner in East Asia, with nations seeking to maintain ties with both the US and China. The study found that none of America's East Asian allies want to choose between the two, as they prioritize cooperation over competition.
Time, surgery appear to reduce episodes of dizziness in patients with Ménière's disease
Researchers found that episodes of dizziness in patients with Ménière's disease decrease over time. Surgery to drain fluid from the inner ear also appears to reduce vertigo in three-fourths of patients, according to a new study.
Hazardous alternatives to alcohol beverages are still widely available in Russia
A recent study found that non-beverage alcohols, including medicinal tinctures and eau-de-colognes, are highly concentrated and cheaper than standard Russian vodka. Researchers believe these products pose a significant health risk to consumers, particularly those who rely on them as an affordable source of alcohol.
Indigo ointment may help treat patients with psoriasis
A randomized trial found that indigo naturalis ointment significantly improved scaling, erythema, and induration in patients with treatment-resistant psoriasis. After 12 weeks, the treated plaques showed an 81% improvement compared to a 26% improvement for non-medicated ointment-treated lesions.
Football helmet shields can protect against a kick in the face
Researchers at Ohio State University found that popular football helmet faceshields can withstand high-velocity impacts equivalent to a kick in the face. The shields maintained structural integrity and optical quality, providing protection without disrupting players' vision.
Novel imaging technique reveals brain abnormalities that may play key role in ADHD
Researchers have uncovered structural features of the brain that may contribute to the development of ADHD. The study used a new analysis tool to examine shape differences in the brains of children with ADHD and found significant abnormalities in boys, but not girls.
U of U researchers to use patient's own stem cells to treat heart failure
Researchers at the University of Utah are enrolling patients in a clinical trial using their own bone marrow cells to regenerate heart muscle and improve blood flow. The study aims to improve heart function and quality of life for those with congestive heart failure.
Microarray analysis improves prenatal diagnosis
A new microarray analysis technique improved prenatal diagnosis for detecting chromosomal abnormalities in 300 cases at Baylor College of Medicine. The test identified 58 copy number variations, including 15 significant findings that would have been missed otherwise.
Applying 'supply and demand' business principles to treat infectious diseases worldwide
A new forecasting method predicts a significant rise in demand for anti-malarial treatments due to the loss of effectiveness of current medications. The method aims to ensure an adequate supply of effective drugs by accurately predicting future demand, particularly in Africa where malaria affects millions.
Can an ant be employee of the month?
A new study published in PLoS Biology found that ants specializing in specific jobs are not more efficient than 'generalist' ants, challenging the idea that job specialization contributes to their success. The research tested individual ants performing various tasks and found that specialists put in more hours of work but did not outpe...
How should we assess new anti-malarial drugs?
A team of researchers argues that the success of ACT in curing malaria demands a new approach to assessing new antimalarial drugs. The authors discuss the design and interpretation of clinical trials for new antimalarial drugs, emphasizing the need for improved efficacy and public health utility.
New gene-silencing pathway found in plants
A team led by Craig Pikaard discovered a new mechanism by which plant cells silence potentially harmful genes, involving the non-coding region of DNA and two plant-specific RNA polymerases. The research has major implications for gene therapy, where RNA-centric approaches show promise for controlling diseases such as cancer and HIV.
Management Accounting Research article receives prestigious Management Accounting Research Award
The paper 'CEVITATM: the valuation and reporting of strategic capabilities' by Janek Ratnatunga, Norman Gray, and Kashi R. Balachandran has been awarded the Management Accounting Section (MAS) Greatest Potential Impact on Practice Award for its potential to bridge the gap between academic research and professional management accounting...
Drops in blood oxygen levels may be key to sudden death in some epilepsy patients
A new study by UC Davis researchers suggests that drops in blood oxygen levels may contribute to sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) patients. Seizures in the temporal lobe and low oxygen levels during episodes are more common in males than females.
Acid soils in Slovakia tell somber tale
A new study published in Nature Geoscience reveals the devastating impact of increased nitrogen deposition on Slovakian soil acidity, compromising plant fertility and surface water quality. Researchers warn that many soils are already susceptible to this process due to decades of human-influenced pollution.
MIT: Safe storage of greenhouse-gas carbon dioxide
Researchers have created a new model to calculate how much CO2 can be stored safely in geological formations, with potential applications for large-scale carbon sequestration projects. The tool predicts the migration of CO2 plumes and can help policymakers make informed decisions about storage sites.
Immediate breast reconstruction more common in wealthier, better-educated communities
A recent study found that patients from higher-income and more educated communities are more likely to undergo immediate breast reconstruction after mastectomy. The research highlights the importance of community demographics in influencing access to this life-changing procedure.
Could genetic research awaken racist attitudes?
A University of Alberta researcher has developed guidelines to prevent genetic research from awakening racist attitudes. The study emphasizes the importance of proper group representation and justifying research focus on specific ethnic groups.
A big bunch of tomatoes?
A new study identifies a genetic pathway that determines the pattern of flower growth in tomato plants. The researchers found that manipulation of this pathway can turn a single stem into hundreds of branch-bearing shoots, increasing crop yields.
Asthma over diagnosed in one third of Canadian adults
A longitudinal study of 540 adults found that approximately one third of Canadians with physician-diagnosed asthma do not have asthma when objectively tested. Obesity is linked to increased asthma rates in North America, but overdiagnosis may be more common than previously thought, particularly among obese adults.
New clue emerges for cellular damage in Huntington's disease
Scientists have discovered a new clue for understanding how misfolded proteins cause cell death in Huntington's disease. The study found that polyQ-expanded proteins interact with and trap other proteins, leading to a breakdown in protein quality control, which may contribute to the disease's toxicity.
Scripps research scientists discover new cause of fatal brain injury from acute viral meningitis
Researchers found that immune cells known as killer T cells recruit other accessory cells to drive the disease, causing blood vessel damage. This discovery offers a new avenue for possible treatments for deadly meningitis.
Why HIV treatment makes people so susceptible to heart disease and diabetes
A study by Associate Professor Katherine Samaras reveals that HIV treatment causes inflammation, leading to increased cardiac and metabolic risk. Patients with HIV-infection tend to gain weight around their abdomen, increasing their risk of heart disease and diabetes.
No protective effect on cancer from long-term vitamin E or vitamin C supplementation
A large-scale clinical trial found no significant protection against cancer from long-term vitamin E or C supplements. Researchers followed over 14,000 physicians for up to 10 years without detecting a link between these supplements and reduced cancer rates.
Huge variation in healthy life years from the age of 50 in the 25 EU countries
The article reveals substantial inequalities in healthy life years (HLYs) from the age of 50 across EU countries, with GDP and spending on elderly care being key factors. HLYs at 50 are highest in Denmark and Malta for men, and France, Italy, and Spain for women, while lowest in Estonia and Hungary.
Men who take aspirin have significantly lower PSA levels
Researchers found that men taking aspirin had significantly lower PSA levels, especially among those with prostate cancer. However, this may affect the ability to detect early-stage prostate cancer through PSA screening.
DFMO may affect Barrett's esophagus
Researchers found that DFMO treatment reduced dysplasia progression in patients with Barrett's esophagus, while also lowering putrescine levels and KLF5 expression. The study suggests a potential mechanism for the chemopreventive effects of DFMO.
FoxJ1 helps cilia beat a path to asymmetry
New research reveals FoxJ1 helps create left-right asymmetry by orchestrating the formation of nodal cilia, which generate fluid flow to orient tissues. The study finds that increasing FoxJ1 levels leads to the formation of ectopic cilia, challenging current theories on its role.
Calls for a more flexible approach to vaccine funding
A University of New South Wales researcher calls for a more flexible approach to vaccine funding, considering quality-of-life impacts. This could lead to improved productivity, reduced sick leave for parents, and enhanced herd immunity against diseases such as chickenpox and shingles.
Drug-related preference in cocaine addiction extends to images
A study found that cocaine-addicted individuals prefer drug-related images over neutral ones, challenging the assumption that pleasure drives drug choice. The tasks developed in this research can help clinicians monitor choice behavior in addicted individuals, potentially predicting treatment effectiveness and outcomes.
Calcium may only protect against colorectal cancer in presence of magnesium
A large clinical trial found that calcium supplementation reduced colorectal adenoma recurrence risk by 32% only in those with low magnesium to calcium ratio. This suggests a personalized diet/supplementation regimen considering both nutrients may be more effective than supplementing with one alone.
Comet particles provide glimpse of solar system's birth spasms
Comet particles from Wild 2 provide a glimpse of the solar system's early convulsions, flinging primordial material out into the cold regions. The particles contain minerals formed at high temperatures, suggesting transport from the inner to outer solar system.
'Super-aged' brains reveal first secrets of sharp memory in old age
Researchers at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine discovered that super-aged brains have a lower number of fiber-like tangles, which accumulate inside brain cells and are thought to kill them. This finding suggests that individuals with fewer tangles perform better cognitively.