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Science News for April 8, 2009


Certain states more aggressive with anti-smoking policies

A new study finds that politically conservative states with higher per capita income, youth populations, and cancer mortality rates are more likely to restrict youth access to tobacco. The study reveals that clerk intervention and random inspections are effective methods for restricting youth access.

SourceWiley·JournalContemporary Economic Policy·DateApr 8, 2009

Enzyme therapy slows kidney function decline

A study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that enzyme replacement therapy with agalsidase alfa slows kidney function decline in men with Fabry disease. The therapy showed promise when initiated early, particularly for those with higher initial kidney function.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 8, 2009

Impact of floods on soils

A recent study found that flood conditions can decrease soil aggregation stability by up to 20%, impacting crop production. The research suggests that reducing conditions contribute to the degradation of soil structure.

SourceSoil Science Society of America·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateApr 8, 2009

Ma and Pa solutions to global warming

A perspective article published in International Journal of Private Law suggests that the prairies can capitalize on environmentally friendly farming practices and produce renewable energy sources. The author proposes solutions such as marketable sod, fertilizers, bio-methane, and artificial wetlands to address climate change.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Private Law·DateApr 8, 2009

Meat for sex in wild chimpanzees

Researchers found that male chimpanzees who share their food with females can mate more often than those who don't. Sharing meat over long periods of time doubles a male's mating success, while females increase their caloric intake without incurring energetic costs.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 8, 2009

How tumor cells move

Scientists at Heidelberg University Hospital have identified a previously unknown protein called SCAI that inhibits the movement and spread of tumor cells. The study suggests that SCAI could be an interesting starting point for research into new mechanisms for fighting cancer.

SourceHeidelberg University Hospital·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateApr 8, 2009

Parkinson's disease medication triggers destructive behaviors

A new study at the Mayo Clinic found that one in six patients taking therapeutic doses of dopamine agonist medications for Parkinson's disease developed new-onset compulsive gambling or hypersexuality. Researchers analyzed medical records of patients and found no such cases in those taking low doses or other treatments.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateApr 8, 2009

Soybean component reduces menopause effects

A rat model study shows that dietary soy supplementation can prevent menopause-related syndromes, improve lipid profiles, and reduce LDL cholesterol while increasing HDL cholesterol levels. The findings support the indication that soybean consumption may prevent coronary heart disease.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalNutrition and Metabolism·DateApr 8, 2009

Research could lead to new non-antibiotic drugs to counter hospital infections

Research on Pseudomonas aeruginosa reveals the mineral phosphate plays a crucial role in its deadly behavior, potentially leading to new treatments that disarm the pathogen without killing it. Excess phosphate can mitigate harm caused by activated P. aeruginosa, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 8, 2009

Shared equipment can lead to hepatitis B outbreaks

A systematic review of 33 HBV outbreaks found that administration of drugs using multi-vial compounds and capillary blood sampling with non-disposable devices are the most frequent transmission routes. The study highlights several topical factors, including a high number of outbreaks in dialysis units and associations with multi-vial use.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateApr 8, 2009

Caltech scientists control complex nucleation processes using DNA origami seeds

Researchers at Caltech have successfully created a system using DNA origami seeds that can direct the self-assembled growth of DNA tiles into precise forms. This breakthrough demonstrates unprecedented control over information-directed molecular self-assembly, paving the way for future applications in technology and materials science.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 8, 2009

Heartburn medications do not ease asthma symptoms

A new study by the American Lung Association found that heartburn medication does not help control asthma symptoms in adults with poorly controlled asthma and no significant heartburn symptoms. Despite using a high dose of esomeprazole, participants showed no improvement in asthma episodes or control.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 8, 2009

Study: Treatment for acid reflux does not improve asthma

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that proton pump inhibitors do not improve asthma control in patients with persistent acid reflux. Researchers examined 402 adults with asthma over 24 weeks and found no benefits from treatment, saving patients unnecessary costs and potential side effects.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 8, 2009

Purple does not stand for prevention in asthma

A 20-center study of 402 patients with poorly controlled asthma found that proton pump inhibitors did not improve asthma control, despite previous beliefs about their role. In fact, half the patients showed excess acid in their gastrointestinal tract, but heartburn medications had no effect.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 8, 2009

Biomedical researchers invited to design experiments for the International Space Station

The NIH-NASA partnership aims to facilitate biomedical research on the International Space Station, addressing pressing health questions through unique microgravity conditions. Biomedical experiments will focus on bone and muscle deterioration, infectious disease, cancer growth, and more, with the goal of improving human health on Earth.

Community provides essential support to military families

A new article in Family Relations explores the concept of community capacity building to provide essential support to military families. The framework outlines a collaborative approach to connecting isolated families with support services, enhancing family strengths and preventing stressful experiences from becoming crises.

SourceWiley·JournalFamily Relations·DateApr 8, 2009