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Science News Archive 2009 - Page 48


Page 48 of 277

Maize research reduces poverty in West and Central Africa

A three-and-a-half-decade analysis of maize research in African farming communities reveals significant benefits, including the adoption of new maize varieties that increase productivity and reduce poverty. The study found that over 1 million people per year have escaped poverty through the adoption of modern maize varieties.

SourceWiley·JournalAgricultural Economics·DateOct 28, 2009

Knocking nanoparticles off the socks

A Swiss study found most silver nanoparticles released during washing come out of fabrics in the first wash, posing a risk to aquatic life. The release varied from 1.3% to 35% of total nanosilver in fabric, highlighting the need for manufacturers and consumers to minimize nanoparticle distribution.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 28, 2009

Mortality rates reduced among children whose mothers received iron-folic acid supplements

Researchers found that iron-folic acid supplementation significantly reduced childhood mortality and low birth weight, but other supplement combinations did not provide the same benefit. The study suggests that antenatal iron-folic acid supplementation is a critical intervention for maternal and child health in developing countries.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateOct 28, 2009

Greater use of in-patient diagnostic imaging improves patient outcomes without significantly impacting costs

A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Radiology found that hospitals using more in-patient diagnostic imaging exams had significantly lower in-hospital mortality rates without a corresponding increase in costs. The study analyzed data from over 100 hospitals and more than 1 million patient outcomes, suggesting...

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateOct 28, 2009

New tactics in Guam rhino beetle invasion

UOG scientists have employed new tactics to combat the coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB) invasion, including the use of canine teams and a bio-control virus. The efforts aim to drive the population to zero, with the latest strategy targeting breeding sites using trained dogs and destroying debris.

Genetic links to fungal infection risk identified

Two genetic mutations, CARD9 and Dectin-1, have been identified as increasing the risk of fungal infections in humans. These findings offer new insights into the genetic basis of fungal diseases and may pave the way for future therapeutic options for patients suffering from chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis and other infections.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 28, 2009

BRC for Mental Health gets cash for CRIS

The BRC's Case Register Interactive Search (CRIS) system, a groundbreaking research tool, will be expanded with the new funding. CRIS allows researchers to search and analyze electronic medical records in an anonymized format, facilitating personalized diagnosis and treatment for mental health patients.

Epilepsy drugs could treat Alzheimer's and Parkinson's

Researchers have discovered a potential new function for anti-epileptic drugs in treating neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. The study found that neurons were protected after treatment with T-type calcium-channel blockers, suggesting the possibility of developing new treatments for neuronal injury.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalMolecular Neurodegeneration·DateOct 27, 2009

Married with children the key to happiness?

A new study published in Springer's Journal of Happiness Studies found that raising children improves life satisfaction for married people, while having no impact on unmarried individuals. The analysis takes into account individual characteristics and suggests that marriage is a key factor in experiencing happiness.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Happiness Studies·DateOct 27, 2009

Anxious pregnant mothers more likely to have smaller babies

A new study reveals that anxious pregnant women are more likely to have affected babies, with anxiety during the third trimester predicting significantly smaller births. Women with severe anxiety in the first and second trimesters also show significant impact on birth outcomes.

SourceWiley·JournalPaediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology·DateOct 27, 2009