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Science News Archive 2009 - Page 68


Page 68 of 277

Research gives new meaning to 'green' cross code

Research from the University of Leeds shows that air pollution levels change dramatically within small geographical areas dependent on wind patterns and street layout. Pedestrians can significantly reduce their exposure to traffic pollution by crossing one street away from main roads.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalAtmospheric Environment·DateOct 5, 2009

Silver nanoparticles give polymer solar cells a boost

Researchers at Ohio State University discovered that adding silver nanoparticles to plastic boosts electrical current generation in polymer semiconductors, increasing efficiency. The new fabrication technique allows for a wider range of wavelength absorption, promising advancements toward commercially viable solar cells.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSolar Energy Materials and Solar Cells·DateOct 5, 2009

Antibiotic may be new stroke treatment

Minocycline has been shown to have a neuroprotective effect on neurons by reducing apoptosis and ameliorating behavioral deficits in animal models after a stroke. This study suggests that minocycline could be a new treatment option for acute ischemic stroke, offering hope for patients who currently have limited treatment options.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Neuroscience·DateOct 5, 2009

Multivisceral transplant survival rates improve with new treatment, says Pittsburgh study

Researchers at the Thomas E. Starzl Transplantation Institute found that survival rates for intestinal and multivisceral transplants increased with innovative surgical techniques, novel immunosuppressive protocols, and better post-operative management. The five-year survival rate rose to 68 percent, similar to other abdominal and thora...

Study of DuraPrep versus chlorhexidine

A recent study published in Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology found that iodine-based skin preparation solutions, such as 3M's DuraPrep Surgical Solution, may be superior to chlorhexidine in preventing surgical-site infections. The study of over 3,200 general surgery patients suggests a significant reduction in morbidity and ...

SourceWeissComm Partners·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateOct 5, 2009

Study: Body posture affects confidence in your own thoughts

A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that people who sit up straight are more likely to believe positive thoughts about their qualifications and abilities. In contrast, those who slouch over have less confidence in their own thoughts. The study suggests that body posture can influence how we think about ourselves.

SourceOhio State University·JournalEuropean Journal of Social Psychology·DateOct 5, 2009

Researchers find demand for cosmetic and surgical procedures in dermatologic surgery rising rapidly

Since 2000, there has been a dramatic increase in cosmetic and non-cosmetic surgical procedures performed by dermatologic surgeons, with a 120% growth rate between 2001 and 2007. The procedures with the greatest increases were soft tissue augmentation, botulinum toxin injections, and non-ablative skin rejuvenation.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalDermatologic Surgery·DateOct 5, 2009

Novel breast tissue feature may predict woman's cancer risk

Mayo Clinic researchers found that certain structural features within breast tissue can indicate a woman's individual cancer risk. The percentage of acini present per lobule at a given age indicates cancer risk. This method is more accurate in predicting risk for an individual than the Gail model.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateOct 5, 2009

JCI online early table of contents: Oct. 5, 2009

Researchers have identified a link between the mutated FGFR4 protein and the spread of childhood cancer. Additionally, changes in iron levels are found to affect inflammation via the TLR4 pathway, while glial cells play a crucial role in stimulating red blood cell production.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 5, 2009

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers analyzed the clinical and cost-effectiveness of early H1N1 vaccination, finding that vaccinating 40% of the population in October or 35% in November could save costs and shorten the pandemic. Expanded vaccination and antiviral prophylaxis are also effective against avian flu, with a focus on mitigating the pandemic potentia...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateOct 5, 2009

The high cost of treating alcohol-impaired drivers

A new study from Rhode Island Hospital found that alcohol-impaired drivers, regardless of injury severity, incur higher medical costs in emergency departments. The study revealed a median charge difference of $4,538 and a longer length of stay, totaling 3.3 hours compared to non-alcohol impaired patients.

SourceLifespan·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateOct 5, 2009

Violent upbringing may lead to domestic violence

A recent study found that individuals who experienced violence at an early age are more likely to struggle with healthy romantic relationships and experience marital difficulties. The research highlights the importance of preventing domestic violence from childhood onward.

SourceWiley·JournalPersonal Relationships·DateOct 5, 2009

Protein helps cells duplicate correctly, avoid becoming cancer

Xiaoqi Liu's research found that cytoplasmic linker protein-170 plays a major role in proper cell duplication and DNA distribution. The absence of this protein can lead to uneven DNA distribution, resulting in cancerous cells. Without proper regulation, cells may become confused, leading to an increased chance of becoming cancerous.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateOct 5, 2009

Research points to potential chink in cancer's armor

Scientists at the University of York have successfully silenced a gene that appears essential to cancer cell survival, leaving healthy cells unaffected. This discovery suggests that certain genes may be specific to cancer cells, paving the way for the development of new cancer treatments with fewer side effects.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 5, 2009

Study examines interventions for extremely preterm infants

Researchers analyzed prenatal management and outcomes of infants born at 22-24 weeks' gestation in two time periods. They found that resuscitation efforts increased during the later period, but did not impact mortality rates. Instead, prolonged care contributed to a longer duration of death.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateOct 5, 2009