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Science News for December 29, 2008


Grazing animals help spread plant disease

Researchers found that grazing animals like deer and rabbits increase the prevalence of a viral plant disease by promoting the growth of aphid-preferred annual grasses. This study challenges previous theories suggesting that herbivores help contain or reduce disease, highlighting the complexity of natural ecosystems.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 29, 2008

Can't chalk it up to 'baby fat'

A new study published in Pediatrics reveals that only 10% of overweight children receive a proper diagnosis, while 76% of severely obese children and 54% of obese children are accurately identified. The study emphasizes the need for early intervention and innovative solutions to improve pediatric weight detection.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateDec 29, 2008

Global structures of the DE3 tide

Researchers found that the DE3 tide can propagate above 100km and exhibits a 2-year cycle oscillation. The tidal signal was analyzed using TIMED mission data, revealing two dominant Hough modes with annual unimodal distribution.

SourceScience China Press·JournalChinese Science Bulletin·DateDec 29, 2008

University of Maryland researchers identify common gene variant linked to high blood pressure

A study by University of Maryland researchers has identified a common gene variant associated with an increased risk of developing high blood pressure. The STK39 gene produces a protein that helps regulate salt processing in the kidneys, which plays a key role in determining blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 29, 2008

New use for human hair

A recent study found that adding human hair waste cubes to commercial growth medium can increase plant yields relative to untreated controls. However, results showed lower yields compared to inorganic fertilizers, suggesting hair waste should not be used as a single source for fast-growing crops like lettuce.

How to enhance nonthermal effects of ultrasound

Researchers used PHIFU with short duty cycle and high intensity combined with ultrasound contrast agent (UCA) to damage rabbit liver VX2 tumour by non-thermal effect. The study found that PHIFU combination with UCA can enhance non-thermal effects of ultrasound, promoting tumor cell apoptosis and inhibiting proliferation.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateDec 29, 2008

New study examines effects of Graniteville, S.C., chlorine gas disaster

A new study examines the aftereffects of a chlorine gas disaster in South Carolina, providing insight into how to prepare emergency response systems for accidental or terrorist releases. The study found that many hospitalized patients showed evidence of severe lung damage, but most recovered quickly and were discharged within a week.

SourceRobert Wood Johnson Foundation Health & Society Scholars·JournalJournal of Emergency Medicine·DateDec 29, 2008

Hebrew University scientists succeed through stem cell therapy in reversing brain birth defects

Researchers at Hebrew University have made significant breakthroughs in reversing brain birth defects in animal models by using stem cells to replace defective brain cells. In their study, Prof. Joseph Yanai and his team demonstrated that stem cells can induce the host brain to produce large numbers of stem cells, repairing damage and ...

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateDec 29, 2008