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Science News Archive September 2008 - Page 10


Page 10 of 24

Out of joint

Researchers at Tel Aviv University and New York University have developed a non-invasive MRI technique that detects the earliest signs of osteoarthritis, enabling early diagnosis and treatment. The test is cost-effective and can provide results within one day.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 19, 2008

Strong association found between prevalence of low white blood count and women of African descent

Researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found a strong association between neutropenia, or low white blood count, and women of African descent. This association may affect disparities in disease treatment and outcomes for cancer therapy, particularly among those with breast and colon cancer.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalBritish Journal of Haematology·DateSep 19, 2008

Political attitudes are predicted by physiological traits

Researchers found that individuals with lower physical sensitivities to sudden noises and threatening images tend to support liberal policies, while those with higher physiological reactions favor conservative policies. This discovery may help explain the stability of strong convictions and the prevalence of political conflict.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·DateSep 18, 2008

Asthma: still more questions than answers

Research has identified distinct pathogenic phenotypes, or endotypes, of asthma that can lead to improved classification and targeted treatment efforts. Additionally, studies have shown associations between paracetamol use in infancy, gene-environment interactions, and the risk of developing inflammatory airway disease.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 18, 2008

JCI table of contents: Sept. 18, 2008

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that a maternal diet rich in methyl donors increases the development and severity of asthma in mice. The study also identified specific genes modified by methylation as likely underlying causes of the increased disease severity.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 18, 2008

Breakthrough in spinal injury treatment

Researchers have discovered two types of astrocyte support cells generated from a common stem cell-like precursor cell, one effective at promoting nerve regeneration and the other causing neuropathic pain. The study offers a promising approach to repairing spinal cord injuries without inducing pain syndromes.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalJournal of Biology·DateSep 18, 2008

New study offers solution to global fisheries collapse

A study finds that catch shares can reverse fisheries collapse, with nearly a third of open-access fisheries collapsing compared to half for those managed under catch share systems. Catch shares create incentives to protect fish populations and reduce bycatch, leading to better biological outcomes.

SourceSeaWeb·JournalScience·DateSep 18, 2008

Plants in forest emit aspirin chemical to deal with stress; discovery may help agriculture

Researchers at the National Center for Atmospheric Research discovered that plants in a forest produce significant amounts of methyl salicylate, a chemical form of aspirin, in response to stress. This finding has the potential to give farmers an early warning signal about crops that are failing.

Expanding cell girth indicates seriousness of breast cancer

Researchers have created a rapid cell inspection technique that can identify metastatic breast cancer cells, which have compromised the cell's structure and compromise deformation. The technique uses an electrical field within a microscopic fluid-filled channel and has been shown to expand cells by 75% in metastatic cases.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateSep 18, 2008

Strategies for preventing gastrointestinal complications in severely burned patients

A recent study reviewed clinical data from 219 patients with large area burns to propose guidelines for preventing gastrointestinal dysfunction. Comprehensive fluid resuscitation, early excision of necrotic tissue, staged food ingestion, and administration of specific nutrients were found to be essential strategies in lowering mortality.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateSep 18, 2008

New study: Overbearing parents foster obsessive children

A Université de Montréal study found that controlling parents foster an obsessive passion for hobbies in children, whereas supportive parents promote a harmonious relationship. The research, which analyzed 588 musicians and athletes, suggests that excessive parental involvement can hinder a child's autonomy and enjoyment of their favor...

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Personality·DateSep 18, 2008

Heart bypass surgery: deadly delays

A new study reveals that delayed elective coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery significantly increases the risk of post-operative death. In contrast, performing CABG surgery within the recommended timeframe reduces the risk of death by approximately one-third.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Health Services Research·DateSep 18, 2008

Scientists discover a new Pacific iguana

Scientists have discovered a new Pacific iguana species in central Fiji, Brachylophus bulabula, which joins only two other living species. The study found that each of the 13 islands where living iguanas were sampled showed distinct genetic lines not seen elsewhere, highlighting the need for conservation efforts.