New culprit behind obesity's ill metabolic consequences
PEDF, secreted by fat cells, leads to insulin resistance and dyslipidemia. Blocking PEDF action may reverse health complications associated with obesity.
Science News for July 7, 2009
Link between obesity and diabetes discovered
A Monash University study has discovered a critical link between obesity and Type 2 diabetes, revealing that fat cells release PEDF, which triggers insulin resistance. Blocking PEDF reverses these effects, suggesting a potential breakthrough in treating the disease.
Adding simehicone to sodium phosphate bowel preparation benefits colonscopy?
Researchers found that adding simethicone to sodium phosphate bowel preparation improved visualization during colonoscopy by reducing air bubbles. However, simethicone did not demonstrate a significant impact on the adequacy of colon preparation.
Scientists explore the physics of bumpy roads
Researchers discovered ripples appear even without springy suspension or wheel, linking it to stone skipping physics. The study provides insights into designing improved suspension systems to eliminate bumpy rides.
Muscle rubs: Use for pain is questionable
A systematic review by Cochrane Researchers found that rubefacients, commonly used for muscle pain, are ineffective for chronic and acute pain due to skin irritation. The study analyzed data from 16 trials involving over 1,200 people, concluding that larger, higher-quality trials are needed to establish their effectiveness.
Nurse leaders selected for prestigious national fellowship to improve health care
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has named its 2009 cohort of Executive Nurse Fellows, a group of 20 nurse leaders from across the US who will receive leadership development and training to improve healthcare delivery. The fellows are tasked with developing innovative new initiatives to improve patient outcomes and health reform.
Male seahorses like big mates
Male seahorses choose partners based on body size to increase reproductive output and bigger offspring, challenging conventional sex roles. A study found choosy males and indiscriminate females, with striking differences in courtship behavior.
Kenya's national parks not free from wildlife declines
A study found long-term declines of elephants, giraffe, and other animals in Kenya's national parks are occurring at the same rates as outside the country. The research highlights the problems of maintaining protected areas on wildlife and ecosystems inside and outside the parks.
Scientists closer to developing salt-tolerant crops
Researchers use GM technique to contain salt in plant parts, reducing damage and increasing tolerance. The technology holds promise for crops like rice, wheat, and barley, improving global food security.
UTSA psychologist awarded $1 million for memory research
Rebekah Smith, a UTSA psychologist, is studying adult memory with a focus on event-based prospective memory. She aims to understand how age affects cognitive processes involved in prospective memory and develop techniques to improve it in both young and older adults.
Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology: New patient radiation safety guidelines
The Society of Interventional Radiology has released new clinical practice guidelines for managing patient radiation dose in interventional procedures. The guidelines emphasize the need for diligence in safely using fluoroscopy to minimize radiation exposure, particularly in procedures such as embolization and TIPS creation.
SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateJul 7, 2009
Are breast cancer patients being kept in the dark?
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports nearly 70% of eligible women lack information on breast reconstruction procedures. To address this issue, ASPS is launching an awareness campaign to educate and empower patients to make informed decisions about their care.
Remote-control closed system invented for inserting radio-active atoms inside fullerenes
Scientists at Virginia Tech have developed a hands-off process for filling fullerenes with radio-active material, increasing control of radiation therapy. The new material allows for targeted localization and potentially fewer side effects in brain tumor treatment.
Severe COPD may lead to cognitive impairment
Severe COPD is associated with significantly lower cognitive function in older adults, even after controlling for confounding factors. Patients with severe COPD are at greater risk for developing cognitive impairment, which can worsen their general health and quality of life.
SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJul 7, 2009
Stanford study bolsters case for preventive prostate cancer treatment
Researchers found that finasteride use made no difference in high-grade cancer rates among men without cancer warning signs, but significantly reduced the risk in those with abnormal digital rectal exams or elevated PSA levels. The study suggests doctors can be less cautious in using finasteride for preventive treatment.
UAB study reveals bone coupling factor key to skeletal health
A UAB study reveals the human protein TGF beta-1 plays a crucial role in balancing bone resorption and formation. The discovery could lead to better bone-building therapies and new osteoporosis drugs, offering hope for patients with bone diseases.
Discovery at UAB brings us nearer to making the dream of invisibility true
Researchers from UAB design a device called a dc metamaterial, making objects invisible under certain light by creating a zero magnetic field inside while keeping the exterior field intact. This innovation brings humanity closer to achieving invisibility.
Worries about paying bills can cause people to pack on pounds
A study found that stress is linked to weight gain, particularly in women who experience strained family relationships and limited life circumstances. Stress reduction strategies, such as access to weight-loss programs and flexible work schedules, may help mitigate this effect.
Pitt team first to profile genes in acutely ill idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patients
The Pitt team has made significant progress in understanding the molecular mechanisms of disease exacerbation in IPF patients. By analyzing gene activity patterns and protein levels in lung tissue and blood samples, researchers have identified potential biomarkers for predicting patient outcomes and identifying new therapeutic targets.
SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJul 7, 2009
Recognition at last
A rapid face recognition method has been developed that can accurately identify individuals despite disguises and varying lighting conditions. The new algorithm reduces computer power requirements without compromising accuracy, making it suitable for real-world applications such as border crossings and automated banking.
SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Intelligent Systems Technologies and Applications·DateJul 7, 2009
Low-cost solution processing method developed for CIGS-based solar cells
Researchers at the University of California - Los Angeles have developed a low-cost solution processing method for CIGS-based solar cells, which could provide an answer to manufacturing issues. The new method has already shown improved efficiency levels and potential for cost reduction.
Study shows endoscopic surgery as effective open surgery for nasal cancer
Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine found that endoscopic surgery is a valid option for treating esthesioneuroblastoma, with better survival rates than open surgery. The study also showed that endoscopic surgery produced more disease-free outcomes than nonsurgical treatment modalities.
Cholesterol control genes found that may point to heart disease risk
A study published in Cell Metabolism identifies 20 genes that regulate cellular cholesterol levels, potentially pointing to new risk factors for cardiovascular disease. These findings may also pave the way for new cholesterol-lowering drugs.
Newer, minimally invasive surgery to treat sciatica does not result in better outcomes
A new study published in JAMA found that tubular diskectomy, a minimally invasive procedure for treating sciatica, does not provide a significant difference in improvement of functional disability compared to conventional microdiskectomy. Patients who underwent tubular diskectomy fared worse with regard to leg and back pain.
Larger hospital units have lower miscarriage rates after invasive pregnancy tests
A study of over 64,000 pregnant women found that larger hospital units with more experience had lower miscarriage rates after amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling. The research suggests that the number of procedures carried out by a department affects miscarriage rates.
Analysis of Copernicus putative remains support identity
Researchers at Uppsala University analyzed DNA from shed hairs in a book owned by Nicolaus Copernicus, finding two hairs with matching profiles to the putative remains. The results were confirmed by analysis of tooth and bone tissue from the same location.
Protein can help cells or cause cancer, Purdue researcher finds
A Purdue University scientist has discovered a key process in cell growth that can lead to the formation of tumors. The research found that an overabundance of the polo-like kinase 1 molecule during cell growth, as well as a shortage of the p53 molecule, will lead to tumor formation.
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center to lead Opennotes study
A new 12-month study, led by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, will examine the effects of adding openness to traditionally one-sided elements of doctor-patient relationships. The project aims to improve patient recall, empower patients to take control of their care, and reduce medical errors.
DOE funds Clemson University clean energy research
The Clemson University-led Center for Atomic-Level Catalyst Design aims to develop new catalysts for producing clean fuels and chemicals from renewable sources. The project seeks to lower the cost of renewable fuels and reduce carbon footprint through advanced computational methods.
Brown professor continues debate over recovered memory
Brown University political scientist Ross Cheit disputes a 2006 Harvard University psychiatric contest on repressed memory, arguing that the methodology was flawed and no data correction was issued after discovering a pre-1800 literary example fulfilling the criteria
As health goes awry, doctor-patient relationship more than a nicety
A commentary in JAMA emphasizes the importance of clarifying patient preferences and values during difficult diagnoses. Doctors can guide patients to use emotions and logical thinking skills together, framing information with multiple perspectives.
US-Mexico border wall could threaten wildlife species
A new study suggests that a 700-mile US-Mexico border wall could significantly alter wildlife movement and connectivity, threatening populations of some species. Design tweaks and technology can improve animal movement, but the impact on biodiversity is still uncertain.
Low birth weight linked to long-term respiratory problems
Infants with low birth weight are at a higher risk of developing respiratory problems that persist into adulthood. Researchers found that those with very low birth weight were twice as likely to be hospitalized for asthma or respiratory infection, and 2.6 times more likely to require mechanical ventilation.
SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJul 7, 2009
Intensive management can improve blood pressure in nonadherent hypertensive patients
Researchers found that treatment intensification can improve blood pressure control in patients with varying levels of adherence, challenging a widely held assumption. The study's lead author recommends further studies to determine the most effective management strategy for uncontrolled hypertension and suboptimal adherence.
Regulation and oversight of gun sales reduces trafficking to criminals
A comprehensive regulation of gun sellers appears to reduce the trafficking of guns to criminals, with states having strong regulations and oversight experiencing far less gun trafficking. The study found that cities with laws regulating private sales and strong dealer oversight had significantly lower levels of in-state gun trafficking.
SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Urban Health·DateJul 7, 2009
Pluronic L-81 is a potential anti-diabetic drug?
Research on Pluronic L-81, a synthetic copolymer, reveals its potential in alleviating obesity-induced insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. The study found that L-81 significantly corrected body weight and plasma glucose levels in genetically diabetic mice.
Economic crisis increases suicides and murders
A study published in The Lancet found that economic crises are associated with rising suicide rates, particularly among working-age populations. Active labor market programs can help reduce the negative impact of unemployment on mortality rates, especially if implemented with adequate social protection mechanisms.
Health departments get mixed marks for using Web to communicate about flu crisis, study finds
A RAND Corporation study finds that state and local health departments performed well in posting information about the H1N1 virus outbreak, but struggled to communicate with diverse populations. Performance varied widely among local health departments across states, with some doing better than others in providing timely and accessible ...
Physicists find way to control individual bits in quantum computers
Researchers have created a way to manipulate single qubits without affecting neighboring information, enabling the development of more reliable quantum computers. The new approach uses polarized light to create effective magnetic fields, simplifying the process of addressing individual qubits.
Finding the constant in bacterial communication
Researchers found that a key factor in quorum sensing is the ratio of bacteria to environment volume, regulating biological functions like bioluminescence and nutrient foraging. This discovery provides insights into fundamental design of quorum sensing systems and enables engineering of synthetic gene circuits.
Higher levels of a certain protein associated with lower risk of type 2 diabetes
A meta-analysis of 13 studies found a consistent inverse association between adiponectin levels and type 2 diabetes risk across various ethnic groups. Higher adiponectin levels were associated with a lower risk of developing the condition.
Mystery of bat with an extraordinary nose solved
A Virginia Tech researcher has solved the mystery of the Bourret's horseshoe bat's unusually large nose, discovering it uses the elongated snout to create a highly focused sonar beam. The study provides insights into the evolution of biological shape and its physical function.
MRI accurately depicts deep endometriosis
A new study published in Radiology found that MRI can accurately diagnose deep endometriosis and locate lesions prior to surgery. The technique was effective in detecting the disease's extent and involvement of surrounding organs, such as the colon and bladder.
Cardia resection for perforated gastroesophageal cancer
A surgical procedure, palliative cardia resection with gastroesophageal reconstruction, was performed on a 82-year-old man with iatrogenic perforation of adenocarcinoma of the GE junction. The patient recovered quickly and showed no complaints after treatment.
Reduced-dose schedule for pneumococcal vaccine in infants shows effectiveness
A study found that reduced-dose schedules of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV-7) significantly reduce vaccine serotype pneumococcal carriage in children. The 2-dose and 2 + 1-dose schedules were shown to be effective in reducing pneumonia and infection risks in infants.
Is molecular adsorbent recirculating system effective for all the liver failure patients?
The study found that molecular adsorbent recirculating system (MARS) treatment is effective in patients with acute liver failure. The etiology of liver failure and the grade of encephalopathy before MARS treatment were significant prognostic factors, while coagulation factor 5 levels were also predictive for unknown etiologies.
Influenza monitoring by the US military
The US military's influenza monitoring system has made notable contributions to global control through collaboration with CDC, FDA, and WHO. The Department of Defense Global Emerging Infections Surveillance and Response System (DoD-GEIS) program provides six objectives relevant to influenza, including laboratory-based surveillance and ...
'Normal' cells far from cancer give nanosignals of trouble
Researchers discovered that cancer cells and their neighboring cells share similar structural abnormalities on the nanoscale level, validating the 'field effect.' This finding could lead to early detection of cancer through simple blood or tissue tests.
UT Southwestern researcher named HHMI Early Career Physician-Scientist
Dr. Nima Sharifi received a $375,000 grant to study genes that determine prostate cancer resistance to androgen deprivation therapy. The funding supports his laboratory's work in developing new therapies.
New monkey discovered in Brazil
A new monkey species, Mura's saddleback tamarin, has been discovered in the Amazon region of Brazil. The monkey is related to saddleback tamarins and faces threats from planned dams and highway construction.
A comprehensive review of addiction to prescription painkillers among patients and physicians
The review examines the prevalence of prescription opioid addiction among patients and healthcare providers, citing risks and consequences. New approaches to minimize abuse and promote recovery are discussed, emphasizing the importance of awareness and treatment.
Study finds job programs protect public health during periods of recession
A new study found that job programs can successfully mitigate increased rates of suicides and alcohol abuse during economic downturns. The research team analyzed data from European Union countries over three decades and found that investing in active labor market programs can prevent a rise in deaths during recession.
Financial crisis increases suicides and homicides
A new study suggests that financial crises can lead to rises in suicides and homicides, but government investments in labour market protections could mitigate these effects. The research estimates that soaring stress brought on by job losses could prompt a rise in suicide rates, particularly in European Union countries.
New strategies to improve treatment and ultimately prevent heart failure in children
Researchers are developing innovative cell cycle-based strategies to stimulate heart muscle tissue repair, as well as studying molecular mechanisms of non-compaction of the left ventricle. The goal is to identify risk factors associated with death and improve treatment outcomes for children with congenital heart defects.
2 studies shed light on racial disparities in cancer survival
Two studies found significant racial disparities in breast cancer survival rates, with black women having a higher hazard of death compared to white women. The disparity persists even when controlling for treatment factors and socioeconomic status.
SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJul 7, 2009
Why are African-Americans less likely to survive certain cancers?
Researchers found African Americans have lower survival rates for breast, prostate, and ovarian cancers due to biological factors, not socioeconomic ones. The study of 19,457 patients showed 49% more likelihood of death from early-stage breast cancer among African Americans.
Scientists track chemical changes in cells as they endure extreme conditions
Researchers observed chemical changes in Desulfovibrio vulgaris cells as they endured air exposure, enabling some to survive through orchestrated metabolic events. This study provides a new window into bacterial adaptation and processes.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 7, 2009
Wrong dose of heart meds too frequent in children
A study published in Pediatrics found that cardiac medication errors occur more frequently in infants under the age of 1, with 96% of errors being benign. The researchers highlight the need for computerized drug orders with built-in double- and triple-checking mechanisms to reduce dosing errors.
Fish on the menu of our ancestors
A study of a 40,000-year-old human skeleton found high levels of nitrogen isotopes suggesting regular consumption of freshwater fish. This suggests that early modern humans in China had access to fish as a food source before the development of effective fishing gear.
SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 7, 2009
1 step closer to an artificial nerve cell
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed an electrically conducting plastic delivery electrode that releases specific neurotransmitters to activate neighboring brain cells, enabling precise control of neural signals. This technology has the potential to treat various neurological conditions, including hearing loss, epilepsy,...
2 dietary oils, 2 sets of benefits for older women with diabetes
A study found that safflower oil supplements reduced trunk fat in obese postmenopausal women with Type 2 diabetes, while CLA supplementation lowered total body fat and BMI. Both oils also improved fasting blood sugar levels.
Erythropoietin boosts brainpower
A study published in BMC Biology found that erythropoietin boosts brainpower in healthy young mice, improving sequential learning and memory components. The growth factor showed superior performance in associative, operant, and discriminant learning tasks.
Q is for quantum and 'Q-life'
Researchers discuss how physics is changing our understanding of cells, brain function, and the potential role of quantum mechanics in biology. Paul Davies suggests that fundamental quantum processes could be key to understanding life's origins.
Why do African-Americans fare worse with cancer? Access, economics only part of the story
A study of nearly 20,000 patient records found that African-American breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer patients die earlier than others with similar treatment, suggesting biological or host genetic factors as the cause. The survival gap persists even after controlling for socioeconomic factors.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJul 7, 2009
Hormone clue to root growth
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have identified gibberellin as a hormone controlling plant root growth by regulating cell proliferation and expansion rates. The study highlights the importance of understanding hormone regulation in plant biology for improving crop yields.
LSUHSC's Kolls awarded $1.8 million to improve vaccine strategies for P. carinii pneumonia
Dr. Jay Kolls receives $1.8M grant to explore antibody responses against Pneumocystis fungus, aiming to develop a vaccine to prevent or treat PCP. Preliminary studies show that carbohydrate antibodies participate in early clearance and regulate long-term immune responses.
Playing it safe
Researchers at Max-Planck-Gesellschaft have developed a method to convert adult testis cells in mice into pluripotent stem cells, which can form all types of body tissue, without the use of introduced genes, viruses, or reprogramming proteins. The culture conditions were found to be crucial for the success of the process.
Scientists identify cholesterol-regulating genes
Researchers have identified 20 genes involved in cholesterol regulation, including 12 previously unknown genes. This discovery may lead to new treatments for cholesterol-related diseases and help fight heart disease.
Hitting cell hot spot could help thwart Parkinson's disease
Researchers present findings on stimulating metabotropic glutamate receptors to stop glutamate release in brain cells, potentially reversing Parkinson's disease symptoms. Current treatments only alleviate symptoms, but new approach aims to protect and repair dying cells.
NTU receives S$30 million Competitive Research Program grants
Three NTU proposals win up to S$30 million in funding for innovative biomedicine, energy, and materials research. The grants aim to address global climate change concerns and develop new technologies for energy generation and storage.
Iron and biological production in the high-latitude North Atlantic
In the high-latitude North Atlantic, low iron availability unexpectedly limits summer biological production. Experimental results show that adding iron increases photosynthetic efficiency and growth of phytoplankton, but insufficient iron is available to support the bloom.
New NCAR system may guide transoceanic flights around storms and turbulence
The NCAR system combines satellite data, computer weather models, and AI techniques to identify rapidly evolving storms and potential areas of turbulence. Pilots on selected transoceanic routes will receive real-time turbulence updates, providing critical situational awareness.
SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateJul 7, 2009
Robo-bats with metal muscles may be next generation of remote control flyers
Researchers at North Carolina State University are developing robotic bats that mimic nature's small flyers for increased maneuverability and performance. The 'robo-bat' uses smart materials, including shape-memory metal alloys and heat-activated muscle wires, to achieve efficient flapping motion.
Single gene mutation responsible for 'catastrophic epilepsy'
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have identified a single gene mutation responsible for catastrophic epilepsy, a condition marked by severe muscle spasms, persistent seizures, and mental retardation. The discovery provides a new model for studying the disease and has sparked hope for potential treatments.