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Science News for May 15, 2008


Can one 'pin down' electrons?

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt have made the first measurement of entangled states in nitrogen, resolving a long-standing debate on electron localization. The study uses COLTRIMS technology to probe the pathways of two electrons, demonstrating that electron location can only be determined for the complete system.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalScience·DateMay 15, 2008

Adding epratuzumab to standard therapy

A study presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology annual meeting found that adding epratuzumab to standard chemotherapy (R-CHOP) resulted in a 95% response rate and 63% disease-free survival in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The treatment was well-tolerated, but final results will be reported next year.

JCI online early table of contents: May 15, 2008

Researchers suggest a novel approach to reducing VEGF-induced vision loss by targeting Src kinases, offering a potential alternative to painful eye injections. Leaky Ca2+ release channels in the brain and heart may also contribute to seizures and irregular heartbeats in individuals with certain inherited disorders.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 15, 2008

Adding up business and energy

Researchers apply Six Sigma methodology to improve energy efficiency at a thermal power plant, detecting faults in steam and water analysis systems and implementing cost-saving measures. The study finds significant energy savings of over three-quarters of a million dollars annually.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Six Sigma and Competitive Advantage·DateMay 15, 2008

Genes may play role in risk assessment for prostate cancer among Hispanics and caucasians

A study published in Clinical Cancer Research found that genetic polymorphisms are associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer among Hispanic men. The research suggests that these genetic variations may help clinicians predict who is more likely to develop the disease, potentially reducing unnecessary screenings and treatments.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateMay 15, 2008

Small primate ancestors had a leg up

Researchers found that smaller primates have an evolutionary edge due to their ability to climb with minimal energy expenditure. This discovery challenges the longstanding assumption that climbing is energetically expensive for all primates.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·DateMay 15, 2008

Carnegie Mellon scientists unveil new tool to understand evolution of multi-domain genes

Researchers have discovered a critical flaw in the standard method for analyzing gene evolution, particularly for genes encoding multi-domain proteins. A new tool called Neighborhood Correlation has been developed to correctly identify gene ancestry, which is essential for understanding gene function and regulatory circuitry. The tool ...

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateMay 15, 2008

Green tea compounds beat OSA-related brain deficits

Researchers found that green tea polyphenols administered through drinking water improved spatial learning and memory in rats with intermittent hypoxia, mimicking OSA. This suggests that GTPs may represent a potential interventional strategy for patients with sleep-disordered breathing.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMay 15, 2008

Obesity and unhealthy lifestyles linked to more complex urinary problems

A population-based study of over 5,000 men and women found that obesity and unhealthy lifestyles are associated with a larger number of urinary problems. Women who have had hysterectomies and men who have undergone prostate or bladder surgery also face an elevated risk. The study highlights the importance of considering social economic...

SourceWiley·JournalBJU International·DateMay 15, 2008

University of Miami's CSTARS to host valuable hurricane, typhoon satellite image library

The University of Miami's CSTARS will host a library of high-quality images collected via spaceborne C-Band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) to aid in understanding hurricane and typhoon dynamics. The database will provide approved scientists with free access to imagery that can help shape storm models and resource distribution.

Connecting cancer genes

A large genetic study in mice has identified hundreds of genes involved in the development of cancer by examining the DNA of more than 500 lymphomas. The study found almost 10,000 mutations that together implicate around 350 gene regions in cancer formation.

Addressing the 'nitrogen cascade'

Two new papers by leading environmental scientists highlight the 'nitrogen cascade,' where a single atom of reactive nitrogen can cause harm to ecosystems and human health. The researchers suggest minimizing nitrogen use through optimizing plant uptake, recovering nitrogen from manure, and decreasing emissions from fossil fuel combustion.

SourceUniversity of Virginia·JournalScience·DateMay 15, 2008

Simple model cell is key to understanding cell complexity

A team of Penn State researchers created a simple artificial cell with a mix of PEG and dextran polymers to investigate the organization and function of cell components. The model cell exhibited polarity, a critical step in development, and showed the interrelationship between cytoplasm and cell membrane.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 15, 2008

New study reveals hidden neotropical diversity

A recent study published in Science Cornell College biology professor Marty Condon and coauthors discovered multiple new species of fruit flies with overlapping niches, exceeding previous expectations. The research found a greater specialization in plant feeding among herbivorous insects than previously thought.

SourceCornell College·JournalScience·DateMay 15, 2008

Young children with OCD benefit from family-based treatment

Young children with OCD can benefit from a tailored form of psychotherapy, known as family-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), that addresses their unique developmental needs and family context. The study found that 74% of patients who completed the CBT program achieved remission, compared to 20% in the relaxation treatment group.

SourceLifespan·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateMay 15, 2008

Medical College of Wisconsin researchers identify proteins that help develop mammalian hearts

The study identifies GATA4 and GATA6 as crucial proteins controlling heart cell formation. Without these proteins, embryonic stem cells fail to develop normal hearts. The findings have significant implications for the production of heart cells from stem cells and may help unravel the mechanisms behind congenital heart disease.

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·JournalDevelopmental Biology·DateMay 15, 2008

Geneticists at the American Museum of Natural History trace the evolution of St. Louis encephalitis

A new analysis of the genome of St Louis encephalitis has shed light on its evolution, tracing the virus back to South America and identifying a single mutation that made it pathogenic to humans. The research suggests that population dynamics and point mutations played a key role in the virus's adaptation to humans.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalMolecular Phylogenetics and Evolution·DateMay 15, 2008

Americans must consider cost and effectiveness when comparing and choosing medical interventions

The American College of Physicians recommends establishing a national research organization to improve physician and patient access to clinical and cost-effectiveness information. This would help address the current lack of reliable data on healthcare interventions' effectiveness, leading to more informed decision-making.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 15, 2008

Teens' perception that they are liked found to be at least as important as actually being liked

A new study published in Child Development found that teenagers who feel good about themselves and are comfortable with their peers can be socially successful without being popular. The research suggests that adolescents' feelings of confidence in their own social standing are a protective factor for long-term social functioning.

SourceSociety for Research in Child Development·JournalChild Development·DateMay 15, 2008

New findings on ocean nitrogen

A new study by an international team of scientists found that around one-third of the nitrogen entering the world's oceans from the atmosphere is man-made. This has significant implications for global climate change as it leads to increased marine biological activity and CO2 uptake, producing nitrous oxide emissions.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalScience·DateMay 15, 2008

Look to the future: New drug reduces one cause of vision loss

A new small molecule inhibitor of Src kinases was found to eliminate VEGF-induced fluid accumulation in the retina of mice and rabbits. The approach, which involved topical application or intravenous injection, showed promise for reducing vision loss due to VEGF-mediated blood vessel permeability.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 15, 2008

AUA 2008: Definition of premature ejaculation by International Society for Sexual Medicine

The International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) has established an evidence-based definition of premature ejaculation, which is characterized by early ejaculation and negative personal consequences. This new definition aims to improve diagnosis and treatment options for men suffering from premature ejaculation, allowing them to se...

Culture affects how teen girls see harassment

A study of 600 adolescent girls found that 90% experienced sexual harassment, with varying levels of reporting depending on age, socioeconomic status, and exposure to feminist ideas. Girls who felt pressure to conform to gender stereotypes or were unhappy with traditional roles were more likely to report sexism.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalChild Development·DateMay 15, 2008