Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive February 2009 - Page 10


Page 10 of 24

Enzyme weakens the heart

Researchers from Heidelberg University Hospital found that CaMKII delta enzyme activates stress response and hypertrophy of the heart. Genetic suppression of this enzyme protects mice from chronic cardiac insufficiency, offering a promising approach for systematic prevention.

SourceHeidelberg University Hospital·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 17, 2009

If you're aggressive, your dog will be too, says veterinary study at University of Pennsylvania

A new University of Pennsylvania survey found that most dogs will continue to be aggressive unless training techniques are modified. Non-aversive training methods, such as exercise and rewards, elicited few aggressive responses. The study highlights the risk of dominance-based training, which can lead to owner-directed aggression.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalApplied Animal Behaviour Science·DateFeb 17, 2009

Anti-social behavior in girls predicts adolescent depression seven years later

Researchers tracked first- and second-graders for seven years and found that anti-social behavior among girls and anxiety among both sexes predicted depression in early adolescence. Early signs of depression were not predictive of adolescent depression, highlighting the need to recognize mental health issues in younger children.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalThe Journal of Early Adolescence·DateFeb 17, 2009

Grape shapes

A team of researchers has developed a new method to analyze grape shapes using digital technology, which enables faster and more accurate breeding of elongated grapes. The study, led by Dr. John R. Clark, uses a special application of the SigmaScan technology to measure the area of each grape and calculate its shape.

Scientists develop resource to study animal aging

A database detailing life history traits of over 4,000 animal species has been developed for studying ageing, evolution, and conservation. The AnAge resource provides insights into the mechanisms of ageing and how environmental adaptations influence lifespan, with potential applications in conservation efforts.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalAging Cell·DateFeb 17, 2009

CSHL researchers identify gene that helps plant cells keep communication channels open

Plant cells use microscopic channels called plasmodesmata to communicate and transport nutrients; the GAT1 gene encodes an enzyme that acts as an antioxidant, relieving cellular stress and maintaining flow through these channels. Turning on this gene helps plants prevent excessive callose accumulation and keeps channels open.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 17, 2009

A potential marker of increased histological activity in hepatitis C virus infection

Research found that IgA antibodies against HCV structural antigens are associated with necro-inflammatory activity, suggesting a potential marker for histological activity in chronic HCV infection. The study also revealed a broad and vigorous humoral response in chronic HCV infection, contrasting with weak cellular immune responses.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateFeb 17, 2009

Drug doubles survival of patients with pre-leukemia

A new study published in The Lancet Oncology found that azacitidine significantly improves the survival of patients with high-risk forms of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Patients treated with azacitidine had a median overall survival of 24.5 months, compared to 15 months for those receiving conventional care.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateFeb 17, 2009

Mutant rats offer clues to medical mystery

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a genetic mutation in rats that links to cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and potentially Alzheimer's disease. The study found that the mutation also increases susceptibility to arterial calcification.

SourceRice University·JournalArtery Research·DateFeb 17, 2009

Asthma drugs need to be maintained for continued benefit

A comprehensive childhood asthma study shows that children who initially improved with steroid drugs no longer see those improvements after stopping the medications. The Childhood Asthma Management Program (CAMP) trial found that continued benefit of these medications likely requires continued use to manage symptoms.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateFeb 17, 2009

Bioremediation to keep atrazine from waterways

A new enzyme developed by CSIRO Australia successfully removes over 90% of atrazine from contaminated water in a trial, providing a promising solution to reduce off-farm water contamination. The enzyme works against various triazine herbicides and is expected to benefit farmers worldwide.

An adjuvant chemotherapeutic agent in gastric cancer therapy

The study investigates the anti-apoptotic effects of Astragalus saponin extract on human peritoneal mesothelial cells during peritoneal gastric cancer metastasis. The results show that gastric cancer cell supernatant induces apoptosis in mesothelial cells, while Astragalus injection can partly suppress this effect and regulate the expr...

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateFeb 17, 2009

Apple peel appeal

A study by the University of Minnesota found that 'Honeycrisp' apple trees produce more blushed fruit than striped ones, which have more intense markings. The research also discovered that northeast-facing branches produce more blushed fruit, highlighting the importance of tree position in determining peel pattern.

Many children with hearing loss also have eye disorders

A study found that nearly 1 in 5 children with sensorineural hearing loss also have ocular disorders. Genetic testing showed that GJB2 mutations are associated with hearing loss but not additional anomalies. Early diagnosis and treatment of eye problems can benefit these patients.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateFeb 16, 2009

When acute hepatitis develops into chronic hepatitis

A study by Helmholtz Center researchers reveals that acute hepatitis B infection triggers chronic liver disease through altered T helper cell function. The team identified specific genes and immune mechanisms involved in the development of chronic hepatitis B, shedding light on potential diagnostic markers and treatment options.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalHepatology·DateFeb 16, 2009

Ethanol plants no panacea for local economies, study finds

A new study by University of Illinois researchers warns that ethanol plants can pose significant risks to local economies. The research found that employment gains from ethanol plants are often overstated and that the industry is plagued by uncertainties such as shifts in energy policy, global economics, and changing technology.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEconomic Development Quarterly·DateFeb 16, 2009

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers found that high-frequency telephone counseling with a dietician resulted in the same amount of weight loss as face-to-face counseling for obese patients taking sibutramine. Wider use of statins could be a cost-effective strategy to prevent heart disease, but may require reevaluation if pill costs are lower.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 16, 2009