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Science News for October 21, 2009


Maternal smoking may increase newborns' discomfort

A new study suggests that maternal smoking during pregnancy may increase newborns' distress levels, potentially related to reduced monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) activity. This reduction in MAO-A activity can lead to dysregulation of brain neurotransmission, creating a potential vulnerability to behavioral disorders later in life.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateOct 21, 2009

Why sex with a partner is better

A study by University of Oregon researchers found that nematode worms with partners were more resistant to genetic mutations and better adapted to changing environments. This suggests that having a mate provides an evolutionary advantage over self-fertilization, leading to longer lives for offspring.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalNature·DateOct 21, 2009

Tips from the American Journal of Pathology

Research from the American Journal of Pathology reveals that glycosaminoglycans contribute to skeletal abnormalities in patients with lysosomal storage diseases. Additionally, αvβ3-integrin expression improves ovarian cancer patient prognosis, while CpG DNA may be a therapeutic candidate for Alzheimer's disease treatment.

SourceAmerican Journal of Pathology·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateOct 21, 2009

Classifying molar pregnancy

Classifying molar pregnancy is crucial for clinical treatment due to increased risk of persistent gestational trophoblastic disease. Researchers used STR genotyping and p57 immunohistochemistry to differentiate complete hydatidiform moles from partial moles and non-molar specimens.

SourceAmerican Journal of Pathology·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateOct 21, 2009

Alcohol tolerance 'switch' found

Researchers at North Carolina State University discovered a genetic 'switch' in fruit flies that contributes to increased alcohol tolerance. This switch also has implications for the development of fatty liver syndrome and cirrhosis in humans, with certain gene variations linked to excessive drinking behavior.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalGenetics·DateOct 21, 2009

Important new rheumatology resource unveiled

A comprehensive collection of 38 articles written by international experts provides a detailed overview of current rheumatology research. The resource covers basic, translational, and clinical research in rheumatology, offering clinicians and researchers a valuable reference work.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateOct 21, 2009

High tech for bicycles

Researchers at Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft have developed a functionally-integrated bicycle seat post made from carbon fiber composite materials, offering noticeable ride comfort and reduced weight. The innovative seat post uses laminated springs to absorb shocks, providing a smoother ride for cyclists.

Designer molecule detects tiny amounts of cyanide, then glows

Researchers have developed a novel detector molecule that can sense cyanide in water at normal pH levels and emit light, offering a potential solution for protecting people from cyanide-laced drinking water. The molecule's modular structure allows it to be modified to enhance its sensitivity and detect different toxins.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 21, 2009

Women veterans less likely to report pain than male counterparts

A recent study published in Pain Medicine found that women veterans are less likely to report pain compared to their male counterparts. The study, which analyzed data from over 153,000 veterans, revealed that female veterans were more likely to report moderate-severe pain but less likely to experience persistent pain.

SourceWiley·JournalPain Medicine·DateOct 21, 2009

Pushing through brain barriers

A Case Western Reserve University engineering professor is developing a miniaturized low-power device to detect how electrical signals and neurotransmitters in the brain work. The device will record 16 channels of chemical and electrical neural activity, measuring neurotransmitters and action potentials in real time.

Lifestyle changes remain important in fighting peripheral arterial disease

Researchers found that modifying risk factors through healthy lifestyle changes remains vital to combating peripheral arterial disease. While some patients with blocked leg arteries may not exhibit symptoms, early detection and treatment are still essential to prevent progression and potential complications.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·DateOct 21, 2009

Infant sucking habits may affect how baby talks

A recent study published in BMC Pediatrics found that persistent sucking habits in infants, such as pacifier or bottle use, may lead to difficulty producing certain word sounds and simplifying pronunciation in preschool children. Delaying introduction of baby bottles until at least 9 months old can reduce the risk of speech disorders.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalBMC Pediatrics·DateOct 21, 2009

The bowels of infection

Researchers found that latent CMV infection exacerbated intestinal inflammation and increased immune responses to normally harmless bacteria, contributing to IBD severity. Latent CMV infection may modulate mucosal immunity and predispose individuals to developing severe acute colitis and subsequently IBD.

SourceAmerican Journal of Pathology·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateOct 21, 2009

Time-keeping brain neurons discovered

Researchers have identified groups of neurons that precisely keep time in the primate brain, allowing for fine-scale control over actions. The discovery opens doors to investigations into how the brain produces and uses its natural time code.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 21, 2009

The Per Brinck Oikos Award 2010

Professor Hanna Kokko has been awarded the Per Brinck Oikos Award 2010 for her groundbreaking research on ecological and evolutionary dynamics. Her work focuses on the interactions between individual behavior, life-history theory, and population dynamics, with applications to conservation and management problems.

SourceWiley·DateOct 21, 2009

Alzheimer's lesions found in the retina

Researchers have discovered that Alzheimer's disease can cause changes in the retina, which may predict how well treatments will work. The findings could lead to the development of retinal imaging technology for earlier diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's, a leading cause of elderly dementia.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateOct 21, 2009