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Science News for March 10, 2009


The perils of ageism

A new study published in Psychological Science suggests that young, healthy individuals who stereotype old people are at risk of heart disease years down the road. Researchers analyzed data from over 400 participants and found a striking link between negative age attitudes early in life and poor cardiovascular health later on.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMar 10, 2009

Motivational readiness for alcohol/drug treatment is more about self-evaluation than consequences

New research on the University of Rhode Island Change Assessment Scale (URICA) finds that motivational readiness is more about individual self-reflection than avoiding negative consequences. The study, published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research, suggests that motivation and readiness to change are influenced by personal ...

Fishing for microdeletions that predispose an embryo to develop cancer syndromes in later life

Scientists use fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) to detect microdeletions in embryos, which can predispose children to certain cancer syndromes. The technique has the potential to test patients with other genetic conditions as well, and opens up new possibilities for families affected by these disorders.

Reducing suicidal behaviors among adolescents

A recent study by Georgia State University researchers found that adolescent girls who perceive themselves as overweight are more likely to display suicidal behaviors than those who are actually overweight. The study analyzed data from 1999-2007 and estimated the potential economic costs of obesity-related suicides.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateMar 10, 2009

Children's National research links platelets to sepsis-related organ failure

Scientists have identified platelets as a contributor to organ failure in patients with sepsis. The study found that granzyme B production in platelets can cause cell death, leading to organ failure. Researchers hope this discovery will lead to better treatments and potentially even prevention of organ failure.

SourceChildren's National Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 10, 2009

Also in the March 10 JNCI

Daily folic acid supplements may increase prostate cancer risk by more than twice that of placebo. Baseline dietary folate intake and plasma levels showed a trend towards reduced risk but did not reach statistical significance. Researchers suggest large epidemiological studies using improved methods to study diet and cancer prevention.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 10, 2009

Journal of American College of Surgeons finds lung transplantation should be used in older patients

A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons suggests that lung transplantation can be a viable option for patients older than 60, as long as they are younger than 70. The research found that mortality rates after one year were significantly higher for patients over 70 compared to those under 70.

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateMar 10, 2009

Systematic estimation of breast cancer risk appears justified in postmenopausal women

Systematic literature reviews and meta-analyses support the use of risk assessment models combined with breast density information to identify high-risk postmenopausal women. Lifestyle factors such as exercise, weight reduction, and reduced alcohol intake also show promise in reducing breast cancer risk.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 10, 2009

An age-old story

A unique exhibition showcases video clips of younger and older people reflecting on life and growing old, revealing surprising experiences and challenges to common stereotypes. The event also invites the public to record their own digital stories on ageing, exploring the potential of technology in social sciences research.

Oh baby, interventional radiology makes childbirth safer

Minimally invasive treatments using embolization effectively control life-threatening bleeding in women after C-sections, reducing the need for blood transfusions and hospital stays. Interventional radiology also helps women with invasive placenta by stopping excessive bleeding and potentially eliminating the need for a hysterectomy.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateMar 10, 2009

Small molecules block cancer gene

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine identified three small molecules that block the activity of Stat 3, a key enzyme in cancer cell survival. The compounds showed promise in inducing programmed cell death in breast cancer cells, offering new hope for cancer treatment.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 10, 2009

Why we hate politics

Leading experts Colin Hay and Gerry Stoker say politics has become 'depoliticised' due to key decisions being handed over to independent bodies. They argue that politicians have lost trust in their ability to govern effectively and in the collective interest, leading to a disenchantment with the conduct of politics.

Study suggests salt might be 'nature's antidepressant'

Researchers found that rats deficient in sodium chloride shied away from pleasurable activities, leading to a potential link between salt cravings and depression. High salt intake contributes to high blood pressure and other health problems, but the study suggests salt may have a mood-elevating effect.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalPhysiology & Behavior·DateMar 10, 2009

Noisy workplaces can make workers deaf

A University of Montreal study reveals that over 60% of Quebec's manufacturing sector workers are exposed to noise levels exceeding the norm, increasing work-related accidents and road collisions. Workers with hearing losses face a 7% greater risk of injury.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateMar 10, 2009

Tissue-cultured smallpox vaccine appears promising

A study found that a tissue-cultured smallpox vaccine elicited high levels of seroconversion and an effective booster response in adults, with no severe adverse events reported. The vaccine's safety and immunogenicity were demonstrated in both previously vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMar 10, 2009

Nanotubes find niche in electric switches

Researchers at Rice University and the University of Oulu discovered that carbon nanotube brush contacts can significantly reduce resistance in electrical commutators, leading to improved performance and reduced energy loss. The study found a 10-fold decrease in resistance compared to traditional copper-carbon composite brushes.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 10, 2009