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Science News Archive February 2008 - Page 19


Page 19 of 19

Rounding up gases, nano-style

Researchers have created a novel process for catching gas from the environment and holding it indefinitely in molecular-sized containers, promising improvements to greenhouse gas management and fuel cell development. The 'molecular nanovalves' system is highly controllable and recyclable, allowing for safe and efficient storage of gases.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 1, 2008

Swarm approach to photography

Researchers developed a new approach to image enhancement using PSO algorithm, which intelligently boosts contrast and detail in an image. The method outperforms existing approaches in terms of computational time and objective evaluation, making it suitable for various applications such as CCTV images and lower quality camera photos.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Innovative Computing and Applications·DateFeb 1, 2008

Taking more than 1 anti-inflammatory drug may lead to complications

A new study published in Arthritis Care & Research found that taking two NSAIDs was associated with lower scores on a health-related quality of life assessment. Dual use was also linked to worse physical functioning and symptoms, highlighting the need for better pain management and patient communication.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateFeb 1, 2008

Scientists discover new species of giant elephant-shrew

The newly discovered grey-faced sengi (Rhynchocyon udzungwensis) is a large, rare species found only in two high-altitude forest blocks in Tanzania's Udzungwa Mountains. Its unique features include a distinctive grey face and jet-black lower rump, highlighting the region's exceptional biodiversity.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Zoology·DateFeb 1, 2008

Why serotonin can cause depression and anxiety

A study published in PLoS Computational Biology suggests that serotonin may contribute to depression and anxiety by disrupting reflexive avoidance behaviors. When serotonin levels drop, individuals lose their instinctual ability to avoid aversive events, leading to increased exploration of potentially harmful states.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateFeb 1, 2008

Brain region that can be stimulated to reduce the cognitive deficits of sleep deprivation identified

Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center have discovered a brain region that can be stimulated to reduce cognitive deficits associated with sleep deprivation. The study used repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to improve working memory performance in young adults after extended sleep deprivation.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCerebral Cortex·DateFeb 1, 2008

Structure of important neurotransmitter regulator determined

Scientists have determined the three-dimensional structure of human kynurenine aminotransferase II, an enzyme regulating glutamate activity. The discovery provides insight into biochemical regulation and may lead to treatments for neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 1, 2008