Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for September 23, 2008


Looking past the 'down low:' New research

Researchers found that black bisexual men fear disclosure of their bisexuality due to perceived risks, highlighting the need for social awareness and acceptance in HIV prevention. The study suggests a shift from individual-level behavior programs to broader social and structural approaches to curb the spread of HIV.

SourceIndiana University·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·DateSep 23, 2008

Formula discovered for longer plant life

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute found that certain microRNAs regulate growth and aging processes in plants by inhibiting TCP transcription factors. This results in slower aging and increased lifespan, with potential applications for cultivating longer-lived and faster-growing plants.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 23, 2008

Is electrocautery shovel a safe and feasible tool in laparoscopic operation?

Research suggests that electrocautery shovel is a viable alternative to ultrasonically activated scalpel in laparoscopic rectal cancer operations, achieving similar clinic effects while reducing costs. The study's findings support the use of electrocautery shovel in laparoscopic surgery with proper technique and anatomical understanding.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateSep 23, 2008

What is the energy consuming style in chronic severe hepatitis B patient normality?

Research found that chronic severe hepatitis B patients had significantly lower glucose oxidation rates and higher fat oxidation rates compared to acute hepatitis and cirrhosis patients. Upon recovery, patients showed improved energy metabolism, with increased glucose oxidation rates and decreased fat oxidation rates.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateSep 23, 2008

Observational study suggests hormone therapy safe for postmenopausal BRCA mutation carriers

A recent observational study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute suggests that hormone therapy may be safe for postmenopausal women with BRCA mutations. The study found a 42% relative reduction in breast cancer risk among women who used hormone therapy, although further research is needed to confirm these findings.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 23, 2008

New MU study finds value differences within Republican party and similarities between both parties

A recent University of Missouri study compares the values of Republicans and Democrats, finding that while there are some differences, both parties favor intrinsic values over extrinsic ones. Republican conservatives tend to prioritize financial success, while Democrats place greater emphasis on helping others in need.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Applied Social Psychology·DateSep 23, 2008

Dark chocolate: Half a bar per week to keep at bay the risk of heart attack

A new study published in the Journal of Nutrition has found that consuming moderate amounts of dark chocolate (6.7 grams per day) can lower the risk of heart attack by significantly reducing inflammation and cardiovascular disease. The study, which enrolled over 20,000 participants, suggests that this amount of dark chocolate is associ...

SourceCatholic University - Campobasso·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateSep 23, 2008

Also in the Sept. 23 JNCI

The breast cancer incidence in China is expected to increase due to lifestyle changes and adoption of Western lifestyles. Researchers predict a total of 2.5 million cases by 2012, with modifications to lifestyle and reproductive risk factors potentially preventing 270,000 cases.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 23, 2008

Seabird ammonia emissions contribute to atmospheric acidity

A recent study reveals that seabirds are a significant source of nitrogen in remote coastal ecosystems, contributing to eutrophication and acidification. The research found varying emissions between seabird species, with bare ground nesters producing more ammonia than burrow nesters.

SourceElsevier·JournalAtmospheric Environment·DateSep 23, 2008

A promising possibility for the treatment of the esophageal carcinoma

A recent study published in World Journal of Gastroenterology demonstrates that lithium inhibits the proliferation of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cells by targeting GSK-3beta. This finding suggests a novel possibility for the treatment of esophageal cancer with lithium chloride, providing new hope for patients with this disease.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateSep 23, 2008

A look to the future

Researchers at Indiana University successfully demonstrated secure sharing of health information across the nation during an emergency scenario, leveraging Nationwide Health Information Network (NHIN) technologies. This innovation has great potential to improve healthcare in the United States.

Melting ice under pressure

Researchers used simulations to determine ice VII's melting temperature in high-pressure conditions, finding a molecular solid phase below 450,000 atmospheres and a superionic solid phase above. This discovery opens up possibilities for water existing as a solid in Neptune, Uranus, and Earth's deep interiors.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 23, 2008

Step back to move forward emotionally, study suggests

A study by University of Michigan psychologist Ethan Kross found that processing emotions from a distanced perspective can facilitate coping and reduce negative moods. By taking a step back and reviewing the situation from afar, individuals can rationalize their feelings and work through negative experiences over time.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateSep 23, 2008

New predictive tool can help determine treatment of breast cancer patients

A new predictive measurement, called a PEPI score, can help determine the treatment of breast cancer patients. A low PEPI score indicates little risk of relapse and allows patients to safely avoid chemotherapy after surgery. Women with high PEPI scores are at high risk of having their cancer return and require aggressive therapy.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 23, 2008

New ways to use biomass

Researchers have developed a new catalyst that directly converts cellulose into ethylene glycol, an important intermediate product for the chemical industry. The catalyst, made of tungsten carbide and nickel on a carbon support, achieves 100% conversion of cellulose with high selectivity.

SourceWiley·DateSep 23, 2008