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Science News Archive July 2009 - Page 18


Page 18 of 23

No psychological risk in children next-born after stillbirth

A study published in The Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found no significant differences in cognitive or health assessments between children born after stillbirth and those born to non-bereaved mothers. However, mothers who experienced a previous stillbirth reported more child difficulties, particularly peer problems.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateJul 8, 2009

Human sperm created from embryonic stem cells

Researchers at Newcastle University have successfully created human sperm from embryonic stem cells, allowing them to study the causes of infertility and potentially develop new treatments. The technique uses germline stem cells developed from male embryos, which are then prompted to mature into fully functional sperm.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalStem Cells and Development·DateJul 8, 2009

Mathematics in 10 lessons

The book provides a grand tour of mathematics in 10 essential lessons, introducing key concepts such as symbolic logic, infinity, and calculus, with the goal of instilling an appreciation for mathematics as both an art and a science. Professor King's approach aims to make real mathematics enjoyable and palatable for non-technical readers.

Contaminated site remediation: Are nanomaterials the answer?

A new review article highlights the potential of nanomaterials for environmental remediation, with 45 sites globally identified for use in soil and groundwater cleanup. However, more research is needed to fully understand the technology's benefits and potential risks, particularly on a full-scale ecosystem-wide impact.

David Yap receives Amethyst Award

Dr. David Yap receives prestigious Amethyst Award from Ontario Public Service for his work combating air pollution in Canada and the United States. The award recognizes his contributions to developing air quality management programs, including the Air Quality Index and Smog Alert Programs.

Robot learns to smile and frown

Researchers at UC San Diego used machine learning to empower their Einstein robot to learn realistic facial expressions, improving the process of teaching robots to make lifelike faces. The team discovered that the model learned to automatically compensate for missing servos and can now make facial expressions it had never encountered.

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.

SourceMonash University·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJul 7, 2009

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.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateJul 7, 2009

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.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateJul 7, 2009

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

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

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 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