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Science News Archive April 2009 - Page 23


Page 23 of 24

Researchers find current drug can treat rare heart disorder

Researchers have discovered a potential treatment for Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia (CPVT), a rare inherited heart disorder that causes sudden cardiac deaths. Flecainide, a drug used to treat heart arrhythmias, has been found to reduce calcium release in heart cells, counteracting the cause of CPVT.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalNature Medicine·DateApr 1, 2009

Journal of Correctional Health Care accepted in Medline

The Journal of Correctional Health Care has been accepted into the premier bibliographic database MEDLINE, making its research and case studies more accessible to a vast audience. The journal, published by SAGE on behalf of NCCHC, addresses correctional health care topics through original research, best practices, and literature reviews.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of Correctional Health Care·DateApr 1, 2009

Activation of the prefrontal cortex improves working memory

A study by IDIBAPS reveals that prefrontal cortex activation improves working memory by reinforcing parietal cortex activity, enhancing short-term visual information retention. This innovative view opens up new research avenues, particularly for understanding and treating diseases affecting working memory.

SourceIDIBAPS - Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 1, 2009

Distinguishing single cells with nothing but light

Researchers at the University of Rochester have developed a novel optical technique called IRAM that enables rapid analysis of single human immune cells using only light. This technique allows for clear differences between two types of immune cells to be seen, providing new insights into cell activation and development.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalApplied Optics·DateApr 1, 2009

A hot solution to bean sprout safety

A natural method of disinfecting mung bean seeds using hot water has been discovered, killing bacterial pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes without reducing germination rates. This method is suitable for organic production systems and could help prevent food poisoning outbreaks.

Seismology tip sheet for April

Researchers linked pre-historic seismic events on the San Andreas Fault to assess likelihood of future great ruptures. Analysis suggests several events similar to a historical earthquake occurred since A.D. 900 on the southern San Andreas fault.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateApr 1, 2009

JCI online early table of contents: April 1, 2009

Researchers found that cannabinoids like THC have anticancer effects on human brain cancer cells by inducing autophagy. Additionally, lithium was shown to protect hippocampal nerve cells in mice treated with cranial radiation therapy, suggesting it may be a new approach to reducing long-term neurological side effects.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 1, 2009

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