Smell-wars between butterflies and ants
Researchers study how butterflies dupe ants into feeding them by mimicking ant pheromones. Ants can develop resistance against this deception, which is influenced by local gene flow.
Science News Archive January 2008 - Page 16
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Life at the jolt
A team of researchers at Arizona State University has gained critical insights into a promising microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology using bacteria to generate electricity. The MFC can handle various water-based organic fuels, making it a viable option for wastewater treatment and energy production.
First-ever study to link increased mortality specifically to carbon dioxide emissions
A new study by Stanford University researcher Mark Jacobson links increased levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere to increased human mortality, with up to 20,000 air-pollution-related deaths worldwide per degree Celsius. The study highlights California's particularly dire situation due to its severe air pollution, which is expecte...
Treating severe pneumonia in children can be done safely and effectively at home
A study found that home-based treatment of severe pneumonia in children with oral antibiotics is equivalent to in-hospital treatment, suggesting a revision of WHO guidelines. This finding has significant public health implications for improving access to care and reducing mortality from pneumonia.
US presidential candidates and their views on scientific issues
The article profiles the nine leading US presidential candidates on their stance on critical scientific issues. Hillary Clinton proposes a $50 billion research fund for green energy, while John Edwards aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 80%.
A crystal that nature may have missed
A mathematical analysis of the diamond's microscopic structure reveals its special properties, including maximal symmetry and strong isotropic property. The K4 crystal, sharing these properties, has sparked curiosity about its potential existence in nature or synthesis.
SourceAmerican Mathematical Society·JournalNotices of the American Mathematical Society·DateJan 3, 2008
Treatment with NAC is associated with better outcomes for children with liver failure
A retrospective study found that NAC treatment in children with non-acetaminophen induced acute liver failure resulted in shorter hospital stays, higher liver recovery rates, and improved survival after transplantation. Adverse effects were minor and self-limited, supporting the safe use of NAC for this condition.
Children are introduced to sipping and tasting alcohol in the home
A study of over 450 children found that nearly 40% have sipped or tasted alcohol by age 10, often in family settings. Children from families where parents drink more frequently are at higher risk, but most parents unaware of their child's experience.
Thyroid treatment no 'quick fix' for weight loss in children
A new study found that levo-thyroxine treatment did not lower weight or BMI in children with acquired hypothyroidism. Most subjects gained weight, while about a third experienced short-term weight loss due to extremely severe cases of the disease.
Novel anticancer strategy moves from laboratory to clinic
Researchers developed a novel anticancer strategy targeting PI-3 kinases, which are crucial for cancer cell growth and survival. The compound, SF1126, showed efficacy in seven types of tumors in mice and is being tested in human clinical trials.
Internists say they prescribe placebos on occasion
45% of Chicago internists report using placebos in clinical practice, viewing them as therapeutic tools with psychological and physiological benefits. The study highlights the need for recognition and discussion about placebo use and its implications.
SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateJan 3, 2008
Inside college parties: surprising findings about drinking behavior
Researchers investigated college parties, observing environments, behaviors, and blood-alcohol concentrations to identify key predictors of excessive drinking. Young women drank more heavily at themed events with sexualized themes and costumes, while students who socialized without drinking games had lower levels of consumption.
Mobile metal atoms
German researchers have developed a new class of inorganic ionic conductor materials with a structure analogous to the mineral argyrodite. These materials exhibit unusually high lithium mobility, which is essential for enhancing the performance of rechargeable batteries.
Stardust formed close to sun
The analysis of noble gases in Stardust samples indicates that some particles match a special type of carbonaceous material found in meteorites and must have spent time near the sun. The study suggests an alternative mechanism for grain incorporation into comets, contradicting earlier formation theories.
Gene dose affects tumor growth
Researchers found that extra copies of a particular gene can repress tumor growth, while missing a copy enhances tumor growth. Mice with three copies of the gene had fewer tumors than those with two copies, while mice with one copy developed more tumors.
UO plays key role in LIGO's new view of a cosmic event
An international team, including University of Oregon scientists, suggests two possible explanations for the lack of a gravitational wave signal in February's gamma ray burst from Andromeda. The findings propose either a merger event beyond Andromeda or a soft gamma-ray repeater within Andromeda as potential origins.
2 explosive evolutionary events shaped early history of multicellular life
Researchers discovered an 'Avalon Explosion' 33 million years ago, where complex life forms diversified rapidly, and major body plans were established. The event occurred before the Cambrian Explosion and shares similarities with it.
Strange-behaving crystals could have impact on research, technology
Aperiodic materials exhibit unusual behavior during phase transitions, which could have significant implications for research and technology. Studying these systems helps better understand symmetry breaking in aperiodic materials.
Gene therapy can reduce long-term drinking among rodents
Researchers used rats bred to be heavy drinkers and administered an anti-Aldh2 antisense gene, reducing consumption by half for a month. The study suggests gene therapy could be a promising approach for treating alcoholism, particularly in individuals with genetic mutations protecting them from the risk of developing the condition.
UVa biomedical engineering study shows magnetic field can reduce swelling
Researchers at UVA discovered that applying a moderate static magnetic field after an inflammatory injury can significantly reduce swelling. The study suggests that magnets could be used as an alternative to ice packs and compression for everyday sprains and bruises, with potential benefits for worker productivity and quality of life.
Death knell for the death penalty
The UN voted to abolish the death penalty globally, with 125 countries already having done so. In the US, 126 death-row inmates have been exonerated due to DNA evidence, raising concerns about the fairness of the practice.
Novel mechanism for long-term learning identified by Carnegie Mellon researchers
Neuroscientists identified a novel mechanism for long-term learning, revealing how NMDA receptors weaken synapses and impair further learning. The discovery sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying learning and memory, potentially leading to a better understanding of Alzheimer's disease.
Catheter chaos: Hospitals lag in preventing common infection
A study found that nearly half of hospitals lack a system to track which patients have a catheter, and three-quarters lack a system to monitor catheter removal. Less than 10% use an approach proven to reduce UTI rates and decrease catheter time.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateJan 3, 2008
Complexity of financial services industry
A RAND Corporation report finds that the financial services industry has become increasingly complex, with broker-dealers and investment advisers becoming more inter-related and difficult to distinguish for individual investors. The study suggests that this complexity is due in part to the blurring of boundaries between these two types...
Shape-memory polymers designed for biomedical applications
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology are developing shape-memory polymers for biomedical applications, including cardiovascular stents and neural probes. These polymers can change shape upon heating, making them attractive for implantation in the body.
Elsevier launches new journal: Journal of Natural Gas Science and Engineering
The Journal of Natural Gas Science and Engineering aims to cover the fields of natural gas exploration, production, processing and transmission. The journal will provide a niche in the economy, technology and integration of disparate disciplines.
UGA researchers receive $9 million in grants to study barriers to effective addiction treatment
Researchers aim to identify effective ways to disseminate research-based treatments and foster dialogue between treatment providers and innovators. The grants will examine barriers to adoption of promising practices and support partnerships between treatment organizations and states.
North Atlantic warming tied to natural variability; but global warming may be at play elsewhere
A Duke University-led study found that North Atlantic Ocean surface waters warmed from 1950 to 2000 due to natural wind patterns called the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), not human-caused global warming. The subpolar regions cooled while subtropical and tropical waters warmed
Red dust in planet-forming disk may harbor precursors to life
Researchers found tholins in the disk of red dust around HR 4796A, a eight-million-year-old star with planets forming. The presence of these complex molecules suggests that basic building blocks of life may be common in planetary systems.
Researchers use neuroimaging to study ESP
Using neuroimaging, researchers at Harvard University tested extrasensory perception (ESP) and found no evidence for its existence. Despite participants' reports of unexplained knowledge, brain scans showed no difference in response to ESP and non-ESP stimuli.
Chemotherapy has safely improved long-term survival in women with hormone-resistant breast cancer
Research from the Early Breast Cancer Trialists' Collaborative Group (EBCTCG) found that chemotherapy safely reduced recurrence, breast cancer mortality, and death from any cause in women with hormone-resistant breast cancer. The study showed a 10-year risk reduction of 25% in younger women and 39% in women aged 50-69 years.
Bright light therapy eases bipolar depression for some
A study found that bright light therapy can ease symptoms of bipolar depression in some patients, with optimal response observed at midday. Six out of nine women treated achieved full recovery from depressive symptoms, highlighting the potential of light therapy as an augmentation strategy for improving treatment response.
SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalBipolar Disorders·DateJan 3, 2008
The dopamine transporter gene influences alcohol withdrawal seizures
Researchers identified four polymorphisms in the dopamine transporter gene associated with an altered risk of withdrawal seizures in alcohol-dependent patients. These findings may help identify patients at high risk and prevent seizures more efficiently.
Plate tectonics may take a break
Scientists propose that plate tectonics may have halted or slowed down in the distant past and could do so again due to changes in ocean basin closure. This idea challenges current models and may explain differences in igneous rock formation and continental evolution.
Walk away menopausal anxiety, stress and depression
A new study published by Temple University found that adding a brisk walking routine can reduce psychological symptoms like anxiety, stress and depression in postmenopausal women. The research suggests moderate-paced exercise can help maintain mental health throughout the menopausal transition.
Study finds most TV prescription drug ads minimize risk information
A University of Georgia study reveals that most TV prescription drug ads fail to provide a fair balance of information, especially when it comes to the risk of side effects. The researchers found that only 2.2% of ads disclosed side effects in both voice-over and text form.
Smithsonian scientists highlight environmental impacts of biofuels
A new study by Zah et al. reveals striking differences in the environmental costs of different biofuels, with fuels from U.S. corn, Brazilian soy, and Malaysian palm oil found to be worse than fossil fuels. The best alternatives include biofuels from residual products.
U of M physicist reads the history of the solar system in grains of comet dust
A University of Minnesota physicist analyzed comet Wild-2 dust, finding it formed close to the infant sun and bombarded by intense radiation before being flung out. The discovery sheds light on the solar system's early stages and potential impact on Earth's atmosphere.
Earthquake 'memory' could spur aftershocks
Scientists have discovered that sound waves can trigger earthquakes in a laboratory setting, inducing aftershocks long after the initial quake. This finding has significant implications for understanding earthquake behavior and may provide clues to catastrophic events in other granular media.
First autism prevention study launched by University of Washington
The University of Washington is launching a groundbreaking study to prevent autism symptoms in high-risk infants. Led by Annette Estes, researchers will assess and intervene with 200 Seattle-area infants who have an older sibling diagnosed with autism, aiming to identify early risk factors and intervene before symptoms appear.
Purdue wind tunnel key for 'hypersonic vehicles,' future space planes
Researchers use a foot-long model in a quiet wind tunnel to study airflow over the X-51A vehicle, focusing on turbulent flow into the engine's combustor and smooth airflow over the upper surface. The findings will aid in designing vehicles that can fly at hypersonic speeds, reducing friction and heat generated during flight.
Losing more than we gain from autumn warming in the north
A recent study found that northern ecosystems lose more carbon than they gain from warmer autumn temperatures, offsetting up to 90% of spring's increased carbon uptake. This reduction in carbon sequestration capacity is attributed to increased soil decomposition and decreased carbon uptake during autumn.
Brown named Center of Excellence in Geriatric Medicine and Training
Brown University has been named a Center of Excellence in Geriatric Medicine and Training, receiving a three-year $450,000 grant award from the John A. Hartford Foundation to train geriatrics junior faculty and fellows. The funding aims to address the growing shortage of geriatricians across the US, with 26,000 expected by 2030.
Cold Spring Harbor Protocols features methods for visualizing protein dynamics
Cold Spring Harbor Protocols features methods to observe protein dynamics, including inserting lac operator sequences into mammalian cells and performing immunohistochemistry in whole mouse embryos. These techniques allow researchers to examine chromatin structure and protein activity during replication and transcription.
Evolution education is a 'must' says coalition of scientific and teaching organizations
A coalition of 17 scientific organizations emphasizes the importance of teaching evolution in schools, citing a national survey that shows public support for evolution over creationism. The organizations argue that science education is fundamental to understanding natural phenomena and promoting critical thinking.
SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJan 2, 2008
Carnegie Mellon study identifies where thoughts of familiar objects occur inside the human brain
A Carnegie Mellon study identifies specific brain regions activated by familiar objects, such as tools and dwellings. The researchers used machine learning algorithms to extract patterns from brain activation scans, revealing that different brains exhibit common patterns for representing the same object.
For hospital patients, defibrillation delays mean lower survival
Research found that 30% of patients with ventricular arrhythmia received life-saving defibrillation more than two minutes after cardiac arrest, leading to significantly lower survival rates. Hospital characteristics, such as small size and lack of continuous monitoring, were associated with delayed defibrillation.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 2, 2008
Shorter HCV treatment shows notable success
Two new studies found that treating Hepatitis C with peginterferon and ribavirin for shorter durations can yield similar success rates to longer treatments, with cost savings and reduced risk of serious side effects. Patients' HCV-RNA levels after 4 weeks may be an important factor in determining the best treatment length.
How actin networks are actin'
A study published in PLOS Biology reveals that multiple Arp2/3 regulatory proteins play distinct roles in regulating actin networks, which are crucial for cellular processes such as cell migration and intracellular transport. The research provides new insights into the coordination of protein activities to generate complex actin networks.
HIV isolate from Kenya provides clues for vaccine design
A research study in Kenya and the US found that an HIV isolate contains mutations making it vulnerable to the immune system. This could lead to effective AIDS vaccines to combat new infections estimated at 2.5 million annually worldwide. The study proposes a vaccine strategy based on envelope protein modifications.
Protein a possible key to allergy and asthma control
A Johns Hopkins study finds activating a specific protein on immune cells can reduce allergic reactions and asthma attacks. By targeting this protein, researchers hope to develop new treatments for allergies.
New strategies work to put cancer on the firing line
Researchers develop novel viral vector delivery system to alert immune system against cancer cells, bypassing the tumor's immune-suppressive mechanisms. The approach has potential for treating persistent infections and cancers.
Protein's new role discovered in autoimmune disease
A study led by UAB researchers found that blocking interleukin 17 (IL-17) slows disease-causing B cell actions in autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. This discovery highlights IL-17's role in shaping B cells' ability to create more antibodies.
Drug industry spends nearly twice as much on marketing than on research and development
A new analysis found that US drug companies spent $57.5 billion on promotional activities in 2004, compared to $31.5 billion on industrial pharmaceutical research and development. The study confirms the public image of a marketing-driven industry and argues for transforming the industry towards more research and less promotion.
Vitamin D2 is as effective as vitamin D3 in maintaining concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D
Researchers found that vitamin D2 is equally effective as vitamin D3 in maintaining 25-hydroxyvitamin D status, especially in people with vitamin D deficiency. The study showed similar increases in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels for both vitamin D2 and D3.
Language centers revealed, brain surgery refined with new mapping
A new brain mapping technique has refined scientists' understanding of language organization within the human cortex, identifying new regions involved in speech production, reading, and naming. The technique allows for safer tumor removal and better outcomes for patients with language-related difficulties.
SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJan 2, 2008
Einstein researchers discover important clue to the cause of Parkinson's disease
A study by Einstein researchers suggests that impaired autophagy may contribute to the development of Parkinson's disease. The team found that dopamine-altered alpha-synuclein molecules interfere with lysosomal digestion, leading to toxic compound accumulation and cell death.
Resilience concepts poised to aid management of coastal marine ecosystems
Researchers explore how modern concepts from mathematical ecology can benefit economically vital yet ecologically complex areas. The four articles in the special section highlight different aspects of attempts to incorporate these concepts into ecosystem-based management.
MRI techniques evolving towards better assessment of liver fibrosis
Recent studies have shown that magnetic resonance elastography and other imaging strategies can detect hepatic fibrosis with high sensitivity and specificity. Non-invasive techniques like MRI could replace liver biopsy, which is currently the best way to assess fibrosis but carries serious side effects.
Insects' 'giant leap' reconstructed by founder of sociobiology
Edward O. Wilson's article in BioScience presents a new perspective on the evolution of eusociality in insects, suggesting that natural selection acts on nascent colonies rather than individual traits. This challenges the traditional explanation based on kin selection, highlighting the complexity of social organization in these species.