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Science News for November 26, 2008


New approaches make retinal detachment highly treatable

Retinal detachment is a condition that affects about 10,000 Americans each year, putting vision loss or blindness at risk. NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell ophthalmologist Dr. Donald J. D'Amico highlights advanced surgical techniques that offer high probabilities of reattachment and visual improvement.

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 26, 2008

Misleading media coverage of medicine

A study found that media coverage of clinical trials rarely provides readers with the necessary information to make informed decisions. The researchers compared pharmaceutical and herbal remedy trials and found that stories underreported risk and lacked disclosure of trial funding and scientists' conflicts of interest.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateNov 26, 2008

Shrimp trawling may boost mercury in red snapper, study suggests

A new study from Texas Christian and Louisiana State universities finds that shrimp trawling operations in the Gulf of Mexico are linked to higher levels of toxic mercury in juvenile red snappers. The research demonstrates a clear relationship between mercury concentrations and coastal areas where commercial shrimp trawling occurs.

SourceDick Jones Communications·JournalTransactions of the American Fisheries Society·DateNov 26, 2008

Route to obesity passes through tongue

A Penn State study found that obese rats are less sensitive to sweet tastes and prefer sweeter foods due to a weakened response to weak concentrations, leading to a vicious circle of overeating and sugar cravings. The research suggests that the brain's reward center is affected by the increased consumption of sugary foods.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Neurophysiology·DateNov 26, 2008

Study of oldest turtle fossil

Scientists have found evidence that turtle shells are bony extensions of their backbones and ribs. The oldest known turtle fossil, Odontochelys semitestacea, has a partial shell extending from its backbone and widening of ribs, suggesting it was a water dweller.

SourceField Museum·JournalNature·DateNov 26, 2008

Nitric oxide can alter brain function

Research from the University of Leicester reveals that nitric oxide can alter brain function, impacting neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The finding suggests a potential new approach for treating these conditions and gaining a deeper understanding of brain function.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalNeuron·DateNov 26, 2008

Eye divergence in children triples risk of mental illness

A recent study published in Pediatrics found that children with misaligned eyes are at a significantly increased risk of developing mental illness by early adulthood. Children with exotropia (eyes that diverge outward) were three times more likely to develop psychiatric disorders than those with normal eye alignment.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateNov 26, 2008

Land iguanas under continuing threat on Galapagos archipelago

New research on Galapagos land iguanas reveals reduced genetic diversity in some populations, putting them at risk from future environmental changes. The study's findings highlight the need for effective management and conservation strategies to ensure the long-term survival of these unique reptiles.

SourceWiley·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateNov 26, 2008

New research sheds light on fly sleep circuit

Researchers at Brandeis University have discovered a specific set of wake-promoting neurons in fruit flies that are analogous to cells in the human sleep circuit. The study found that these neurons play a crucial role in regulating sleep-wake cycles and that targeting them could lead to the development of more effective sleep treatments.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalNeuron·DateNov 26, 2008