Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2009 - Page 209


Page 209 of 277

Waste not, want not

Researchers in Japan investigate three technologies for heat recovery: latent heat, reaction heat, and thermoelectric devices. They find that high-temperature waste heat with adequate exergy value exists in many industries, offering effective ways to recover waste heat.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Exergy·DateApr 1, 2009

Last step leading to blood cell formation elucidated

Researchers at Helmholtz Munich have discovered the last step leading to blood cell formation, which has important implications for the development of new therapies. The study found that a special type of endothelial cell can transform into blood cells, providing a key insight into the mechanisms of hematopoiesis.

Relocation, relocation, relocation

A mathematical algorithm has been devised to address population relocation due to climate change, taking into account various costs and planning priorities. The multi-objective optimization approach aims to ensure fair and economically viable relocation decisions.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Mathematics in Operational Research·DateApr 1, 2009

New studies examine elimination of hepatitis B and C

Two new studies explore ways to clear hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) from patients' bodies. Researchers found that HBV superinfection can lead to clearance of HCV in chronic HCV patients, while interferon-based therapies show promise for treating chronic HBV.

SourceWiley·JournalHepatology·DateApr 1, 2009

Procedure improves health of cancer patients

A novel hemodialysis procedure called high cut-off hemodialysis has been shown to restore kidney function and increase lifespan in patients with multiple myeloma, a form of cancer that causes severe kidney failure. In a study of 19 patients who underwent the procedure while receiving chemotherapy, 70% became independent of dialysis.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 1, 2009

Omega-3 kills cancer cells

DHA reduces tumour size and enhances chemotherapy's effects while limiting its harmful side effects, according to a new study. The researchers call for greater deployment of omega-3s in the fight against cancer.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalCell Division·DateApr 1, 2009

Breast cancer: To screen or not to screen?

Researchers found that breast cancer screening's life-saving benefit gradually increases with age, but the majority of women do not need regular mammograms to save lives. The study estimated that around 1 in 5,000 women will be saved by screening between ages 40-59.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making·DateApr 1, 2009

Healing a shoulder separation

Mid-level shoulder separations, also known as acromioclavicular joint injuries, are common athletic injuries. Nonsurgical treatment is often favored for type III injuries, but surgical reconstruction may be recommended for certain patients with persistent instability. Both approaches require rehabilitation to restore motion and strength.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateApr 1, 2009

Source of major health benefits in olive oil revealed

Researchers found that DHPEA-EDA protects red blood cells from damage, providing greatest protection against heart attack and stroke. The study suggests virgin olive oils contain higher levels of this compound, which could lead to the production of functional oils designed to reduce heart disease risk.

SourceWiley·JournalMolecular Nutrition & Food Research·DateApr 1, 2009

Medication may improve portal hypertension

A study found that sorafenib dramatically improved the condition of rats with portal hypertension, reducing new blood vessel growth and improving liver function. The results suggest that sorafenib may be an effective therapeutic agent for treating advanced portal hypertension.

SourceWiley·JournalHepatology·DateApr 1, 2009

Health benefits, consequences of folic acid dependent on circumstances

Research suggests that folate intake can have dual positive and negative effects, with adequate intake offering protection against cancer but excessive amounts facilitating tumor growth. The optimal level of folate intake varies depending on the individual's specific circumstances, highlighting the need for tailored guidelines.

SourceWiley·JournalNutrition Reviews·DateApr 1, 2009

Accurate assessment of heart disease leads to earlier, more aggressive therapy

A study published in the Journal of Nuclear Medicine found that myocardial perfusion testing with gated single photon emission computed tomography (gated SPECT) is a more accurate predictor of prognosis in chronic ischemic heart disease. Gated SPECT identified individuals at risk for future cardiac events, enabling early initiation of ...

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateApr 1, 2009

April Geosphere media highlights

Scientists investigate possible tectonic cycling of serpentized peridotites in the Mariana forearc, connect Saddle Mountain and Seattle faults, and improve fractured carbonate-reservoir characterization with remote sensing. Seismic reflection profiles also define Grenville-age rift system and foreland basins beneath Phanerozoic sediments.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeosphere·DateApr 1, 2009

Dealing with dwarfism

Early diagnosis and treatment of achondroplasia's manifestations can produce better outcomes for patients later in life. This includes addressing stenosis of the foramen magnum and thoracolumbar kyphosis, which can cause developmental delays and spinal deformities.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateApr 1, 2009

Light reveals breast tumor oxygen status

Duke University researchers developed a light-based system to analyze tumor oxygen levels, helping oncologists choose effective treatments. The system uses diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and can provide immediate feedback during biopsies.

SourceDuke University·JournalCancer Research·DateApr 1, 2009

How probiotics can prevent disease

Researchers used probiotics to protect animals from diseases such as mastitis and salmonellosis, demonstrating their potential to prevent and treat human diseases. The study identified specific bacterial species and mechanisms of action that could lead to the development of new treatments.

Suppressing the compulsion to steal

Researchers found that naltrexone, an opiate receptor blocker, reduced the urges to steal and stealing behavior in individuals with kleptomania after eight weeks of treatment. The study suggests a potential link between kleptomania and substance addictions, highlighting the drug's efficacy in treating impulse control disorders.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateApr 1, 2009