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Science News for June 26, 2009


Dietary fat linked to pancreatic cancer

A new study found that high intake of dietary fats, particularly from red meat and dairy products, is associated with a higher risk of pancreatic cancer. Men and women who consumed more total and saturated fats had significantly higher rates of pancreatic cancer compared to those with lower fat consumption.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJun 26, 2009

LSUHSC research identifies enzyme that makes survival molecule for key vision cells

Researchers at LSU Health Sciences Center identified the 15-LOX-1 enzyme, which produces neuroprotectin D1, a molecule that protects retinal cells key to vision. This discovery has potential applications in treating retinal degenerative diseases and neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's disease.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJun 26, 2009

Success of the academy approach?

Research studies examining Academies in England reveal mixed results, with notable improvements to student performance but diversity between and within Academies. The Trinity Academy case study highlights the significance of private business sponsorship and core values in achieving improved GCSE attainment.

SourceSAGE Publications UK·JournalManagement in Education·DateJun 26, 2009

Trial shows promise for arthritis drug

A clinical trial of masitinib has shown it to be well-tolerated and effective in reducing the severity of active rheumatoid arthritis. The treatment was found to significantly reduce inflammation and improve symptoms, with mild to moderate side effects.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateJun 26, 2009

Latin America must cut blood pressure to thrive

New research warns of increasing rates of hypertension in Latin America, which poses a mounting threat to economies if not addressed. To combat this, policymakers and healthcare providers must work together to implement core policy changes, including detection, diagnosis, treatment, and control of high blood pressure.

SourceSAGE Publications UK·JournalTherapeutic Advances in Cardiovascular Disease·DateJun 26, 2009

Why saints sin and sinners get saintly

A new study by Northwestern University suggests that individuals with abundant moral self-worth may engage in immoral behavior to balance out their perceived level of goodness, while those who experience a moral-cleansing effect tend to engage in good work to restore their ideal level of moral self-worth.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 26, 2009

Dolphins get a lift from delta wing technology

Researchers have discovered that dolphins' flippers exhibit aerodynamic properties similar to modern delta wing aircraft. The study found that swept-back flippers are the most efficient at generating lift, with the bottle nose dolphin's triangular flippers being the most efficient overall.

SourceThe Company of Biologists·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateJun 26, 2009

Making nanoparticles in artificial cells

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute have successfully produced cadmium sulphide particles in microscopically small membrane bubbles, achieving control over nanoparticle size for the first time. The method uses biomimetic compartments similar to cell membranes to synthesize nanoparticles, offering a new approach to optical informati...

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalSmall·DateJun 26, 2009

Further gene mutations linked to autism risk

Researchers found rare copy number variations in genes of children with autism spectrum disorders but not healthy controls. The study identified two novel genes, BZRAP1 and MDGA2, thought to be important in synaptic function and neurological development.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateJun 26, 2009

Corals stay close to home

Recent study reveals coral species tend to stay close to home, with high local genetic diversity important for conservation. Marine reserves should prioritize locally sourced coral recruitment to maintain healthy populations.

SourceWiley·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateJun 26, 2009