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Science News Archive 2010 - Page 26


Page 26 of 283

Developing countries often outsource deforestation, study finds

A new study found that reforestation at home often leads to deforestation abroad in developing countries. International trade in forest products increased the demand for imported timber and agricultural products, contributing to net deforestation. Strengthening cooperation and certification systems can help mitigate this issue.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2010

Plant-derived scavengers prowl the body for nerve toxins

Researchers at Arizona State University have successfully produced plant-derived human butyrylcholinesterase, a bioscavenger that can neutralize organophosphate toxins. This breakthrough holds promise for protecting the nervous system from pesticide and nerve agent poisoning, as well as treating related diseases such as Alzheimer's.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2010

Self-assembly of nano-rotors

Researchers have successfully self-assembled rod-shaped molecules into small rotors within a two-dimensional network, forming a hexagonal lattice. The rotors exhibit unique energy thresholds and can maintain their structure even when exposed to thermal energy, enabling potential applications in optical or electronic switching.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2010

Optimizing large wind farms

Charles Meneveau and Johan Meyers develop a model to calculate optimal turbine spacing for large wind farms. They find that energy production depends less on horizontal winds and more on entraining strong winds from higher in the atmosphere, leading to an optimal distance of about 15 rotor diameters.

Sour research, sweet results

Researchers at USC College have made a groundbreaking discovery about sour flavors, revealing that protons from acids directly activate taste cells. This finding has important implications for understanding how different tastes interact and may lead to practical applications in cooking and food industry.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 23, 2010

Tobacco: Out of sight, out of mind?

Researchers at the University of Nottingham discovered that removing tobacco displays in shops can change young people's attitudes towards smoking. The number of teenagers who recalled tobacco displays dropped from 81% to 22%, and fewer believed smoking was widespread among their peers.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalTobacco Control·DateNov 23, 2010

Scientists question fisheries health test

A widely used biodiversity indicator in fisheries is found to be an ineffective guide to trends in marine ecosystems, according to a new study published in Nature. The researchers recommend more direct monitoring and the development of trend-detection methods to better assess the impacts of fishing on marine biodiversity.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalNature·DateNov 23, 2010

Registered dietitians play essential role in effective management of diabetes in adults

A systematic review of American Dietetic Association Nutrition Practice Guidelines provides recommendations for registered dietitians to support people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The guidelines emphasize consistency in carbohydrate intake, insulin dose adjustment, and cardioprotective nutrition interventions.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Dietetic Association·DateNov 23, 2010

Overweight primarily a problem among wealthier women in low- to middle-income countries

A new study from Harvard School of Public Health finds that high body mass index (BMI) is primarily a problem among wealthy women in developing countries. The study analyzed data from 54 low- to middle-income countries and found an association between BMI and wealth, with richer women more likely to be overweight.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateNov 22, 2010

Allotment gardeners reap healthy rewards

A study found that allotment gardeners, especially those over 60, exhibit increased levels of physical activity and better overall health compared to their non-gardening counterparts. The research also suggests that having an allotment can promote healthy aging and lifestyle habits.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateNov 22, 2010

University of Minnesota engineering researcher finds new way to fight antibiotic-resistant bacteria

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have discovered a new way to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria by treating municipal wastewater solids at higher temperatures. This approach can destroy up to 99.9% of bacterial genes that confer resistance, making it a potential tool in the fight against superbugs.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateNov 22, 2010

Successful treatment for mice with beta-thalassemia

A team of researchers has successfully treated beta-thalassemic mice by increasing hepcidin levels, which limits iron overload and markedly reduces anemia. This approach suggests a new therapeutic strategy for patients with beta-thalassemia, potentially mitigating iron overload and anemia.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 22, 2010

Lower-income families with high-deductible health plans may put off care because of costs

A recent study found that lower-income families enrolled in high-deductible health plans are more likely to delay or forego medical care because of the costs. Despite this, they did not report any difficulties understanding their plans. The study suggests that physicians play a crucial role in helping patients navigate these challenges.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 22, 2010