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Science News Archive September 2008 - Page 3


Page 3 of 24

Don't forget the vitamin A when working with its carrier protein

A study found that vitamin A's carrier protein, retinol-binding protein (RBP), was significantly lower in obese subjects than nonobese subjects. This suggests a potential link between RBP and insulin resistance in obesity. Further research is needed to determine the role of apo-RBP, an unbound form of RBP, in mediating insulin signaling.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology and Medicine·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateSep 26, 2008

Researchers study how pistachios may improve heart health

Researchers found that pistachio diets can beneficially affect cardiovascular disease risk factors in a dose-dependent manner. The study suggests that pistachios may decrease CVD risk profile through effects on Stearoyl CoA Desaturase (SCD) and other bioactive substances.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateSep 26, 2008

Argonne scientists peer into heart of compound that may detect chemical, biological weapons

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have discovered a new compound that could potentially detect chemical and biological weapons over long distances. The compound, (A)ZrPSe6, was made possible by the unique beamline of the Advanced Photon Source, allowing scientists to analyze its remarkable properties.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 26, 2008

Crime definition and control are central to the transnational condition

The article explores the concept of transnational crime and its relationship with global governance. Critical criminology provides valuable insights into the role of crime definition and control in shaping the transnational condition, highlighting the need for democratization and the dangers of increased policing powers.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Political Sociology·DateSep 25, 2008

Galloping and breathing at high speed

A team of researchers has developed a pacemaker to stimulate the muscles that control breathing in horses. This technology may also benefit humans with laryngeal paralysis or those who undergo laryngeal transplants. The study's findings provide insights into the coordination of movement and breathing in equines.

Hospital patients are discharged earlier on busier days

A new study in the RAND Journal of Economics examined how hospital admission and discharge behavior is affected by fluctuations in demand. The results show that patients are discharged earlier when hospitals face high demand, a finding that suggests hospitals may be influenced by capacity constraints to make admission decisions.

SourceWiley·JournalThe RAND Journal of Economics·DateSep 25, 2008

Social class dictates cancer risk

A study analyzing English cancer patients found that cervical and lung cancer rates are higher among poor people, while breast and melanoma rates are higher in wealthier groups. Smoking is strongly associated with socioeconomic status and contributes to the higher incidence of lung cancer in deprived groups.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Cancer·DateSep 25, 2008

Women recover muscle strength more slowly than men

A recent study by Ohio University researchers found that women's muscles require longer and more intensive rehabilitation after bed rest and cast immobilization. Women lose around 30% less muscle strength within one week of cast removal compared to men, suggesting different rates of muscular strength-building may be the cause.

Bio-imaging mass spectrometry techniques reveal molecular details about complex systems

Researchers at Georgia Tech's Center for Bio-Imaging Mass Spectrometry have developed new bio-imaging mass spectrometry techniques to analyze complex biological samples. These techniques allow for the visualization and localization of specific molecules in tissues, enabling a better understanding of biological systems.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology Research News·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateSep 25, 2008

2008 International Science and Engineering Visualization Challenge winners announced

The 2008 International Science and Engineering Visualization Challenge recognizes artists who use visual media to promote scientific understanding. The competition features stunning visuals and innovative uses of media to showcase various scientific research topics, including the anatomy of a squid and the creation of spontaneous buckl...

From 12 years onward you learn differently

Research reveals that children aged 8-9 and adults process negative feedback differently than those aged 12-13. Eight-year-olds learn primarily through positive feedback, while twelve-year-olds use it to learn from their mistakes more efficiently. Adults do the same, but with improved efficiency.

Oldest known rocks discovered

Researchers at the Carnegie Institution have discovered Canadian bedrock over four billion years old, making it 250 million years more ancient than previously discovered rocks. The findings provide crucial clues to the earliest stages of our planet's evolution and chemical composition similar to volcanic rocks in geologic settings.

New recommendations for better corporate portfolio management

The article proposes new best practices for corporate portfolio management, including revamping organizational structure and compensation systems to prioritize investor thinking. An independent group within companies can function like a SWAT team to support objective portfolio management.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Applied Corporate Finance·DateSep 25, 2008

Risky behaviors on TV may be modeled by inexperienced viewers

A study in the Journal of Communication found that TV portrayals of risky sexual behavior can increase expectations of future engagement among inexperienced viewers. In contrast, those with direct experience are not influenced by TV content. This research highlights the potential for media to shape attitudes and behaviors.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Communication·DateSep 25, 2008