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Science News Archive March 2009 - Page 23


Page 23 of 26

Palestinians lack basic human security

Threats to Palestinian life and well-being have intensified since 2000, including killings, injuries, and destruction of homes and properties. Access to basic services like fuel, electricity, water, and sanitation is disrupted by Israeli restrictions and military incursions.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 4, 2009

Mortality risk greater for elderly women who nap daily

A new study found that older women who reported taking daily naps had a 44% increased risk of dying from any cause. This association remained significant among relatively healthy women and was strongest for cardiovascular-related mortality.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 4, 2009

Taking the pulse of our planet

The USA-NPN is launching a new national program to track the effects of climate change on seasonal changes in plant and animal behavior. Scientists will use volunteer observations to monitor life cycles of nearly 200 species of plants, predicting wildfires, pollen production, droughts and assessing ecosystem vulnerability.

New database important resource in caring for dialysis patients

The Comprehensive Dialysis Study (CDS) includes data on more than 1,600 patients, providing a valuable new resource for improving dialysis outcomes. Researchers can examine the interrelated factors affecting the health of new dialysis patients and identify predictive significance of early physical and nutritional status.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 4, 2009

Novel veterinary procedure detecting life-threatening injuries touted

Researchers developed a new thoracic ultrasound examination called TFAST to diagnose pneumothorax and other thoracic injuries in dogs. The study found that TFAST proved highly accurate for detecting PTX and other related injuries, with accuracy comparable to human clinical research.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care·DateMar 4, 2009

Politicians can use fear to manipulate the public

A new study explores how and when politicians can use fear to manipulate the public into supporting policies they might otherwise oppose. Politicians' use of fear is more likely with abstract topics that are difficult for citizens to observe.

SourceWiley·JournalAmerican Journal of Political Science·DateMar 4, 2009

Rituximab reduces kidney inflammation in patients with lupus

A study published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society Nephrology suggests that rituximab can significantly improve kidney health in patients with severe lupus nephritis. The immunosuppressive drug showed promise in reducing inflammation and improving renal outcomes in those who did not respond to conventional therapy.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 4, 2009

Antibody key to treating variant CJD, scientists find

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have determined the atomic structure of the binding between an antibody and a brain protein that could be key to treating vCJD. The study found that this antibody, ICSM18, has therapeutic potential in preventing brain cell infection and reversing early damage caused by the disease.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2009

Algae could fuel cars and jobs

The production of algae-based biodiesel has been shown to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by avoiding the use of fossil resources. Additionally, establishing an algal biodiesel plant could create up to 45 jobs in rural areas and provide opportunities for diversifying agricultural sectors.

Is the Dead Sea dying?

The Dead Sea's water levels are decreasing at an accelerated rate, primarily caused by increased human water consumption from the Jordan and Yarmouk Rivers. The study suggests that desalination of seawater or construction of new channels could help slow down the receding water levels.

SourceSpringer·JournalZeitschrift für Didaktik der Naturwissenschaften·DateMar 4, 2009

Hookworms in MS trial

A three-year study funded by the MS Society is investigating whether infection with hookworms can lead to an improvement in the severity of multiple sclerosis. The trial, which involves 72 patients, aims to determine if the worms can provide a simple, cheap, natural treatment for the condition.

Nanostructure boosts efficiency in energy transport

Boston College researchers have developed a titanium nanostructure that improves the efficiency of energy transport, achieving a peak conversion efficiency of 16.7 percent under ultraviolet light. The novel material enhances the 'water-splitting' technique by collecting and transporting electrons with minimal energy loss.

SourceBoston College·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 3, 2009

Study sheds new light on link between obesity and infertility

A new study published in The Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that obese women have detrimental changes in their ovaries, leading to poorer reproductive outcomes. Alterations in egg development and increased inflammation may contribute to infertility, the researchers suggest.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMar 3, 2009

Supportive co-parenting may reduce some child behavior problems

A new study suggests that supportive co-parenting between mothers and fathers can help protect children from certain behavior problems. Researchers found that children with low effortful control showed increases in negative behaviors, but those with supportive co-parenting relationships did not experience the same growth.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateMar 3, 2009