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Science News Archive March 2008


Page 1 of 19

Study questions 'cost of complexity' in evolution

A new study by Yale and Washington University researchers challenges the idea that complex traits have a 'cost of complexity,' suggesting that many mutations only affect a small number of traits. The team identified genomic regions affecting skeleton characteristics, revealing a well-coordinated process in tuning up complex traits.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateMar 31, 2008

Harvard researchers publish MRI images of genes in action in the living brain

Researchers at Harvard have developed gene probe eye drops that enable non-invasive monitoring of brain activity in living organisms. The technology uses MRI to detect tissue repair and has potential applications in treating neurological diseases, diagnosing conditions, and delivering therapeutic agents to the brain.

Are women voters more likely to vote for female candidates?

Research found no significant gender gap supporting female candidates, with voters' decisions influenced by the candidate's policies and information rather than their gender. The study suggests women are more likely to support female candidates but evaluated similarly to male candidates based on personal and political considerations.

SourceSAGE·JournalPolitical Research Quarterly·DateMar 31, 2008

How HIV hides itself

Researchers have discovered how HIV evades the immune system by altering a key defence mechanism. The Nef protein interferes with the recognition of infected cells, making it difficult for the body to target and eliminate the virus.

Stanford researchers develop tool that 'sees' internal body details 1,000 times smaller

A team of Stanford University School of Medicine researchers has developed a new type of imaging system using Raman spectroscopy to illuminate tumors in living subjects. The technique allows for the detection of multiple molecular targets simultaneously, enabling finer biochemical details and more precise imaging.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 31, 2008

Community-acquired MRSA spreads

MRSA cases have increased 10 times in Denmark over the last decade, with community-acquired strains spreading through family and social networks, says Professor Robert Skov. The Danish health system has introduced guidelines to prevent MRSA transmission, but the rising epidemic remains a concern for public health.

Good sexual intercourse lasts minutes, not hours, therapists say

A survey of 50 sex therapists found that satisfactory sexual intercourse typically lasts between 3-7 minutes for men and 7-13 minutes for women. The study aims to dispel unrealistic expectations about the length of sexual activity, promoting counseling over medication for addressing existing sexual problems.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Journal of Sexual Medicine·DateMar 31, 2008

Mental disorders and exposure to war in Lebanon

A nationwide study of 3,000 Lebanese adults found that one in four had a lifetime mental health disorder, with major depression being the most common. Exposure to war-related events significantly increased the risk of developing an anxiety or mood disorder.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMar 31, 2008

Tai Chi exercises improve type 2 diabetes control

Regular Tai Chi Chuan exercise improves T cell helper function in patients with type 2 diabetes by increasing T-bet transcription factor and IL-12 production, suggesting a potential therapeutic effect. The study also found improved glycemic control, reduced inflammation, and enhanced immune response.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateMar 31, 2008

New research provides insight into menopause

Menopause is thought to be an evolutionary adaptation that helps minimize reproductive competition between females in the same family unit. The researchers propose that older women should cease breeding when younger women start to breed, explaining the observed timing of reproductive cessation in humans.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 31, 2008

Exploding star in NGC 2397

A team of astronomers from Queen's University Belfast have discovered the nature of five supernova precursor stars using Hubble images. The study reveals that stars with masses as low as seven times the mass of the Sun can explode as supernovae, challenging current understanding of massive star collapse.

Are blood thinners post-op killers?

A new review of 28,000 patients undergoing joint replacement surgery found that potent anticoagulants may actually lead to more deaths. The authors argue that these drugs have significant side effects and do not prevent pulmonary embolism effectively.

SourceSpringer·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateMar 31, 2008

Indiana University study finds majority of US physicians favor national health insurance

A majority of US physicians now support national health insurance, with significant increases in support across medical specialties. The survey found that nearly every specialty showed an increase in levels of support for national health insurance, with some specialties like psychiatry and emergency medicine seeing major increases.

SourceIndiana University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 31, 2008

Fire without smoke

Researchers have modeled flameless combustion in a gas turbine engine, finding reduced NOx emissions with almost uniform heat release. This process could lead to more efficient power generation and lower polluting emissions.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Environment and Pollution·DateMar 31, 2008

Boosting self-esteem can backfire in decision-making

A new study from Northwestern University finds that positive feedback can actually escalate perceived threats to the ego and increase the need to prove a questionable decision was right. Research participants who received praise for skills unrelated to the decision were less likely to recommit to it.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalOrganizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes·DateMar 31, 2008