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Science News Archive June 2008 - Page 18


Page 18 of 21

New research explores role of serotonin

Researchers at the University of Cambridge found that low serotonin levels are associated with increased impulsivity, particularly during social interactions. The study suggests that boosting serotonin levels through diet or therapy may help alleviate symptoms of depression, OCD, and anxiety disorders.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateJun 5, 2008

Where mathematics and astrophysics meet

Mathematicians Dmitry Khavinson and Genevra Neumann describe how their work on the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra led them to questions in astrophysics, specifically gravitational lensing. Their result resolves a conjecture of Sun Hong Rhie, establishing that the number of zeros of certain rational harmonic functions is 5n - 5.

SourceAmerican Mathematical Society·JournalNotices of the American Mathematical Society·DateJun 5, 2008

Regular tipple may curb risk of rheumatoid arthritis

Research published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases found that moderate alcohol consumption reduces the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis by up to 50%. The study, which involved over 2,750 participants, also highlighted the importance of quitting smoking as a key preventive measure.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateJun 4, 2008

Enzyme plays key role in cell fate

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that caspases, known as 'killer enzymes,' play a crucial role in cell differentiation. By manipulating programmed cell death pathways and caspase targets, scientists may be able to revert somatic cells into embryonic stem cell-like states.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateJun 4, 2008

Brief, intense exercise benefits the heart

Research from McMaster University found that brief, high-intensity sprints improve blood vessel function and structure, similar to traditional long-duration exercise. The study suggests that short bursts of intense exercise can reap the same cardiovascular benefits as longer workouts.

Kylie's breast cancer triggered a surge of over 30 percent in breast imaging of low-risk women

A new study from the University of Melbourne found that Kylie Minogue's breast cancer diagnosis led to a significant increase in breast imaging and biopsies among low-risk women, particularly those aged 25-34. Despite the surge in screening activity, the rates of breast cancer detection did not change significantly.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateJun 4, 2008

Access to abortion in Africa and Latin America: a question of public health and social inequality

Unsafe abortions are common in Latin America and Africa, with 3.7 million and 4.2 million reported annually, respectively. The lack of access to safe abortion services exacerbates maternal mortality and social injustice. Feminist groups and civil organizations advocate for decriminalization, but conservative positions hinder progress.

Cartilage regeneration '20,000 Leagues Under the Sea'

Bioengineers at Rice University have developed a method to stimulate cartilage cell growth using intense pressure, resulting in tissue with nearly all properties of natural cartilage. The new process has potential for treating arthritis and repairing damaged tissues, but further testing is needed.

SourceRice University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 4, 2008

Mayo Clinic: Heart patients fare better in 3-year program

Researchers at Mayo Clinic found that heart patients who met regularly with cardiac 'disease managers' for three years had better control of risk factors and lower death rates. The approach demonstrated clear clinical benefits, including improved cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and medication compliance.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation and Prevention·DateJun 4, 2008

A new way to protect computer networks from Internet worms

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new way to protect computer networks from Internet worms by automatically detecting infections within minutes. The method involves monitoring the number of scans sent out by machines on a network and isolating infected machines in quarantine for repairs.

SourceOhio State University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Dependable and Secure Computing·DateJun 4, 2008

Tipsheet for June issue of BSSA

Numerical earthquake models are providing a means to understand physical processes and predict earthquakes, reducing damage and loss of life. Simulations show that surface-rupturing earthquakes absorb more seismic energy than buried ones, resulting in less ground shaking.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateJun 4, 2008

New report shows locomotor training restores walking function in child with spinal cord injury

A new report reveals that a non-ambulatory child with a cervical spinal cord injury was able to restore basic walking function after intensive locomotor training. The child's progress from no ability to stand or walk to full ambulation using a walker is significant, suggesting that the central nervous system may be retrained. Research ...

SourceAmerican Physical Therapy Association·JournalPhysical Therapy·DateJun 4, 2008

AGU journal highlights -- June 4, 2008

Researchers found that high-energy electrons are lost by the inner radiation belt during VLF transmitter periods, suggesting human systems can control radiation belt dynamics. Additionally, enhanced mixing within Southern Ocean fronts influences global ocean circulation and climate.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 4, 2008

Findings offer insights into role of breastfeeding in preventing infant death, HIV infection

Two studies suggest breastfeeding can reduce infant mortality and HIV infection rates, particularly among infected infants. In resource-poor settings, abrupt cessation of breastfeeding after four months may be harmful, while extended anti-HIV treatment can greatly reduce the risk of infection.

Honeybee dance breaks down cultural barrier

International researchers discovered that Asian and European honeybees can share information and cooperate through dance language despite their geographical distance. The study showed that the two species can decipher encoded messages correctly after adjustment in a mixed colony.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 3, 2008

Brown researchers work toward ending cartilage loss

Researchers at Brown University have developed a method to regenerate cartilage naturally by creating a synthetic surface that attracts cartilage-forming cells. The team, led by Thomas Webster, uses carbon nanotubes to stimulate cell growth through electrical pulses, which appears to enhance cartilage regeneration.