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Science News for February 26, 2009


Muscling in on type 2 diabetes

A new study suggests that high levels of myostatin produced by muscle tissue in extremely obese individuals may contribute to the development of insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes. Muscle loss is a key indicator of this transition, and understanding its role in metabolism is crucial for finding effective treatments.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalDiabetes·DateFeb 26, 2009

Researchers identify ALS gene mutation

A new gene mutation has been identified as a common cause of inherited ALS, affecting motor neurons in the central nervous system. This discovery is part of a national study led by Northwestern University, aiming to understand the triggers of motor neuron death and develop new treatments.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateFeb 26, 2009

Team-based diabetes care fetches more value for dollar

A recent study found that team-based diabetes care improves health outcomes for Medicaid patients, including significant reductions in systolic blood pressure, body mass index, and hemoglobin A1C. However, the study suggests that this approach does not result in lower treatment costs under Medicare and Medicaid.

SourcePenn State·JournalDiabetes Care·DateFeb 26, 2009

Burn rehabilitation experts at UT Southwestern outline best treatments for post-burn itching

Burn rehabilitation experts at UT Southwestern recommend a hierarchy of treatment strategies to alleviate chronic itching caused by burn scars. Topical creams and ointments are often effective, while oral antihistamines may be necessary for more severe cases. Other non-medicinal treatments like lasers and massage can also provide relief.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Burn Care & Research·DateFeb 26, 2009

An impossible alloy now possible

Researchers at Uppsala University have successfully formed a substitutional alloy between Cerium and Aluminium under high pressure, defying previous limitations on element compatibility. The discovery opens up possibilities for creating new alloys with unique mechanical, electronic, and magnetic properties.

SourceUppsala University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 26, 2009

This grass is still greener

A study by Clemson University researchers found that creeping bentgrass on golf putting greens can recover from winter damage caused by foot and equipment traffic. The study suggests that full recovery should be expected by summer, allowing course managers to minimize lost revenue and extend play during the winter months.

Statins lower stroke severity, improve recovery

Mayo Clinic researchers found that statin use reduced stroke severity and improved outcomes, even in patients with ideal cholesterol levels. The study suggests benefits beyond lipid lowering, including plaque stabilization and anti-inflammatory effects.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases·DateFeb 26, 2009

Is HIV testing during labor feasible?

Research in Cameroon reveals that 88.3% of women are willing to accept HIV testing during labor, leading to a higher rate of detected infections compared to previously estimated rates. The study recommends an opt-out approach for HIV testing during labor to increase the number of mother-infant pairs receiving appropriate treatment.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Pregnancy and Childbirth·DateFeb 26, 2009

Supports Intensity Scale is effective for identifying needs in people with intellectual disability

The Supports Intensity Scale is a planning tool that assesses individual needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in 85 life areas. A new study found SIS to be effective in predicting funding needs, providing a unique opportunity for services and funding decisions to be based on person-centered goals.

SourceAmerican Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities·JournalAmerican Journal on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities·DateFeb 26, 2009

Georgia goes bananas

Researchers in a study published in HortTechnology identified two high-quality banana cultivars suitable for commercial production in southern Georgia: 'Manzano' and '1780'. These cultivars can produce over six suckers per plant, generating a potential income of over $60 per plant.

Do doodle: Research shows doodling can help memory recall

Research shows doodling while listening can significantly improve memory recall, with participants recalling an average of 7.5 names of people and places compared to 5.8 non-doodlers. Doodling helps maintain focus on the main task without affecting performance.

SourceWiley·JournalApplied Cognitive Psychology·DateFeb 26, 2009

Diverse skills, personalities aid top management teams -- up to a point

Research by Christophe Boone and Walter Hendriks found that IT firms with diverse expertise and work experience tend to be more effective in managing organizations. In contrast, personality diversity hinders firm performance. The study suggests using carefully designed personnel selection techniques to screen for knowledge and experience.

New discovery gives tuberculosis vaccine a shot in the arm

A new study published in the Journal of Leukocyte Biology suggests that interferon can improve the effectiveness of the current tuberculosis vaccine by enhancing dendritic cell function. The research found that type I interferon stimulated dendritic cells to produce a stronger immune response against Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateFeb 26, 2009

Modern lifestyle prevents tooth decay

Research reviews scientific evidence on tooth decay, concluding that good oral hygiene and fluoride toothpaste practices override the effects of food alone. Lifestyle factors such as regular brushing and dental health education are essential in preventing tooth decay.

SourceSugar Nutrition UK·JournalObesity Reviews·DateFeb 26, 2009

Desert ants smell their way home

Research by Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology reveals that desert ants, like Cataglyphis fortis, utilize a combination of visual landmarks and unique scent signatures to guide them back to their nests. This groundbreaking study challenges the long-held notion that these ants rely solely on self-generated pheromone trails.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalFrontiers in Zoology·DateFeb 26, 2009

Analysis of fresh strawberries reveals consumer preferences

A recent study reveals that consumer preferences for fresh strawberries are linked to a complex balance of sweetness, aroma, texture, and appearance. The research found that certain strawberry cultivars, such as 'Rubygem' and 'Sugarbaby', were favored by panelists due to their high flavor and sweetness ratings.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalJournal of the American Society for Horticultural Science·DateFeb 26, 2009