NASA's Fermi telescope discovers giant structure in our galaxy
The telescope discovered two gamma-ray-emitting bubbles that span 50,000 light-years north and south of the galactic center
Science News Archive 2010
Browse by Month - 2010
Page 39 of 283
Myth of a germ-free world: A closer look at antimicrobial products
Research by Arizona State University's Rolf Halden found that triclosan and triclocarban persist in wastewater sludge, soils, and natural water environments, posing risks of bioaccumulation and biomagnification. These chemicals are also linked to endocrine disruption and selective pressure on microorganisms, increasing the likelihood o...
Concern over traumatic brain injury in youth offenders
A new study reveals young offenders have a significantly higher rate of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) than expected in society. TBI was also linked to greater violence in offending and mental health problems. Researchers emphasize the need for brain injury assessment in offender management.
Lupus patients: The doctor, nurse and social worker are here to see you
The Mary Kirkland Center offers personalized care to lupus patients through a team of healthcare professionals. The center provides education and research opportunities, as well as programs addressing cardiovascular health and wellness, to improve patient outcomes.
National Cancer Institute awards nearly $4 million to University of New Mexico Cancer Center
The National Cancer Institute has awarded nearly $4 million to the University of New Mexico Cancer Center and Sandia National Laboratories for a five-year partnership and training center. The award aims to advance new nanotechnology discoveries and develop cancer-relevant applications in clinical practice.
More than 1,000 tigers reduced to skin and bones in last decade
More than 1,069 tigers have been seized in tiger range countries over the past decade, with India leading the way. The seizures highlight severe poaching pressure on Indian tigers, with potentially more than 100 wild tigers being plundered each year.
Computer-automated monitoring system may help identify medical devices with potential safety risks
A computer-automated monitoring system identified a drug-releasing stent with significantly higher rates of major adverse cardiac events compared to similar stents. The study found that automated surveillance of clinical registries can efficiently identify emerging postmarket safety risks.
Long-term statin use is unlikely to increase cancer risk
Researchers analyzed data from the Cancer Prevention Study II Nutrition Cohort and found that long-term statin use was not associated with overall cancer incidence or increased risk of common types of cancer. Instead, it was linked to lower risks of melanoma, endometrial cancer, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Bilingual benefits reach beyond communication
Research reveals bilinguals outperform monolinguals in tasks requiring distraction-blocking and task-switching, potentially leading to improved cognitive outcomes. Bilingualism may also protect against age-related cognitive decline, including Alzheimer's disease.
Exercise may reduce risk of endometrial cancer
A study found that physical activity reduces the risk of endometrial cancer, even among overweight women. Women exercising for 150 minutes per week had a 34% lower risk compared to inactive counterparts.
Alpha males take greater risks: Study links finger length to behavior
Researchers at Concordia University discovered a link between the length of the second and fourth fingers and risk-taking behavior in men. The study found that alpha males with shorter ratios were more likely to engage in recreational, social, and financial risk-taking.
Overcoming the IVF baby blues
Research from Tel Aviv University finds that stress and anxiety are major contributors to IVF-related depression. Hormone therapy plays a lesser role in inducing depression during IVF treatment.
Study finds low birth weight may cause lifelong problems processing medications
A study by Oregon State University researchers found that low birth weight can cause lifelong problems processing medications. The kidneys of underweight animals had significantly less ability to process and transport drugs due to a protein called a 'drug transporter'.
MicroRNA controls mammary gland development in mice
A team of scientists has found that microRNAs, tiny ribonucleic acid molecules, play a crucial role in mammary gland development in mice. The absence of these molecules resulted in the complete failure of duct development in the mammary glands of mice.
Gates Foundation continues funding of tuberculosis research at Weill Cornell
Weill Cornell Medical College has received $200,000 in new funding from the Gates Foundation for tuberculosis research. The grants will support projects led by Dr. Carl Nathan and Dr. Kyu Rhee, aiming to understand the genetic mechanism of TB emergence from latency and develop new therapies.
Scientists identify 1 cause of damage in Alzheimer's disease and find a way to stop it
Researchers discover that amyloid beta disrupts an anti-oxidant protein called catalase, causing neural damage. A new coating molecule protects catalase from amyloid's harmful effects, restoring its function and potentially treating Alzheimer's disease.
What do the UK uplands mean to you?
The Sustainable Uplands project gives UK uplands a voice through ouruplands.co.uk, highlighting their diversity and importance. The platform showcases video-clips, written accounts, and artwork from various stakeholders, including farmers, landowners, and policy-makers.
How well does clot-busting drug work in stroke patients?
A study published in Archives of Neurology found that stroke patients who show improvement within one hour of receiving rt-PA are more likely to have a favorable outcome three months later. Researchers followed 120 patients and found that 68.2% had a favorable outcome, compared to 29.6% for those who did not show early improvement.
Jefferson awarded multi-million dollar NIH grant
Researchers will test culturally relevant intervention, behavior activation (BA), to prevent cognitive decline in older African-Americans with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The 24-month study aims to demonstrate that BA can boost public health efforts and encourage active lifestyles.
Very few eligible young women opt to take HPV vaccine
Despite strong evidence of its effectiveness, only one-third of eligible young women complete the recommended three-dose regimen for the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. Persistent infection with certain HPV types may lead to cervical cancer.
Parents should talk about math early and often with their children
Research suggests that frequent conversation about numbers in early childhood can significantly impact later mathematics achievement. The study found individual differences in mathematical knowledge by preschool, and parents' number talk played a crucial role in these variations.
New class of 'dancing' dendritic cells derived from blood monocytes
Scientists at Rockefeller University have discovered a new class of dendritic cells, called monocyte-derived dendritic cells, that can be derived from blood monocytes. These cells have been shown to have the same functional properties as classical dendritic cells and are promising for therapeutic uses in humans.
Unconventional idea for antiviral contraceptive gel wins Gates Foundation grant
Researchers propose a novel approach to prevent both unintended pregnancies and HIV transmission by utilizing nanoparticles that carry melittin, a toxin derived from honeybee venom. The nanobees will target and destroy sperm and HIV cells through a fusion process.
Probiotics shorten diarrhea episodes
A systematic review found that probiotics shortened diarrhoea episodes by around a day and reduced the risk of prolonged episodes by 59% in patients with diarrhoeal diseases. No serious adverse effects were reported.
New method for simple fabrication of microperforated membranes
Researchers have developed a simple method to fabricate free-standing polymer membranes with precisely patterned holes, opening up potential applications in microfluidics. The technique uses photolithography and prepolymer, allowing for easy fabrication of membranes with accurate sizes and shapes.
UC Riverside receives Gates Foundation grant to fight malaria
Professor Eamonn Keogh will use the grant to develop automatic insect sensors that can detect and classify mosquitoes at a low cost. The project aims to understand mosquito movement to combat malaria, which kills nearly one million people worldwide each year.
Mountain ranges may act as "safe haven" for species facing climate change
Swiss researchers found that mountain ranges offer habitat diversity that may be crucial for species survival under changing climate conditions. The study suggests that these regions are 'safer' places to live, with only a small percentage of temperature conditions disappearing.
New brief tool to screen for cognitive impairment in elderly patients
A new screening test, Sweet 16, can detect dementia in elderly patients more rapidly, providing an alternative to the Mini-Mental State Examination. The tool has been shown to accurately characterize mental status without influencing patient education or sociodemographic factors.
Study shows durable viral suppression of boosted REYATAZ in treatment-experienced HIV patients
A European Observational Study found low discontinuation rates and sustained virologic suppression with REYATAZ/ritonavir-based regimens over five years. The study, which included 1,294 ARV-experienced patients, showed that 75% of those with baseline HIV-1 RNA levels <50 copies/mL remained suppressed after three years.
Portable microwave sensors for measuring vital signs
Researchers have developed a non-invasive technique using microwaves to measure vital signs, such as heart rate and stress levels. The system detects changes in reflected waves caused by body movements, allowing for near-real-time monitoring.
Improving soil for better lawns and gardens
USDA researchers are developing constructed soils to build better, less-costly sports fields, raingardens, and lawns on degraded land. The most promising mixture includes quarry byproducts and composted chicken litter, which reduces rain runoff and erosion.
Side effects of hormonal breast cancer therapy increased; may affect treatment adherence
Researchers found that women treated with aromatase inhibitors experience a wide range of side effects, including hot flashes, fatigue, and breast sensitivity. The study suggests that addressing these side effects is crucial for improving treatment adherence and patient outcomes.
Kent State geology professors study oldest fossil shrimp preserved with muscles
Kent State University geology professors Rodney Feldmann and Carrie Schweitzer report on the discovery of a 360-million-year-old fossil shrimp in Oklahoma. The ancient crustacean's muscles are remarkably well-preserved, providing valuable insights into its evolution.
The brains of Neanderthals and modern humans developed differently
A study reveals distinct brain development patterns between Neanderthals and modern humans, particularly after birth. The findings suggest that unique early brain development in modern humans may underlie cognitive differences.
Global warming reduces available wind energy
A study by Diandong Ren finds that rising global temperatures decrease wind speeds, reducing the power output of wind turbines. This means that more wind turbines are needed to achieve the same amount of energy production, highlighting the need for a switch to renewable energy sources earlier.
Timely depression diagnosis critical to maintain health of elderly
Researchers at the University of Missouri have found a series of indicators associated with elderly depression beyond mood changes, including verbal aggression, urinary incontinence and weight loss. These findings suggest that timely diagnosis and treatment can improve quality of life for nursing home residents.
Business getting the most from research
A survey of UK businesses found that they partner with researchers for service development, human resource management, training, and marketing. Academics also engage in a wide range of knowledge exchange activities, but face constraints such as lack of time and resources.
Foucault, revisited
Researchers from Argentina have successfully created a new type of Foucault pendulum that is smaller and more efficient than traditional devices. The new pendulums, which are designed to be compact enough to fit in a lobby or classroom, use advanced techniques to reduce the elliptical drift of the pendulum and improve precision.
Darwin's theory of gradual evolution not supported by geological history, NYU scientist concludes
A NYU scientist concludes that Charles Darwin's theory of gradual evolution is not supported by geological history. Instead, Scottish horticulturist Patrick Matthew proposed a more accurate theory, highlighting the role of catastrophic mass extinctions in driving evolutionary changes.
Oil will run dry before substitutes roll out
A new University of California, Davis study suggests that the global oil supply will run dry within 90 years, far before replacement technologies are ready. The forecast is based on market capitalizations and dividend payments from publicly owned oil and alternative energy companies.
Variation in heart disease death risk in England largely attributed to population characteristics
A study in England found that coronary heart disease mortality rates vary greatly between local populations due to factors such as low socioeconomic status, white ethnicity, smoking levels, and diabetes. The study suggests that programs to reduce mortality should target population characteristics rather than healthcare services.
Drinking 100 percent fruit juice is linked to higher intake of essential nutrients
Adults who drink 100 percent fruit juice have improved nutrient intake, exceeding recommended levels for calcium and potassium, while meeting vitamin A and C needs. The study supports the role of fruit juice as a nutrient-dense beverage, encouraging its inclusion as part of a balanced diet.
Obesity in adolescence significantly associated with increased risk of severe obesity in adulthood
Research found that obese adolescents are more likely to develop severe obesity in adulthood, with higher risks for women and black women. The study tracked 8,834 individuals from adolescence to adulthood, finding a significant association between adolescent obesity and severe obesity in adulthood.
Owzat! Bushcrickets' big secret revealed
Researchers found Tuberous Bushcricket produces large testes but less sperm per ejaculate, defying traditional thinking. The study suggests males use larger testes to mate repeatedly without exhausting their sperm reserves.
Text messaging can improve treatment adherence in HIV patients
A trial in Kenya found that using text messages to help patients adhere to their treatment improves absolute adherence rates by 12% and numbers achieving viral load suppression by 9%. Patients who received SMS support were more likely to report adherence to ART.
Poll analysis: Americans have conflicting views about spending on public health system
A majority of Americans supports increased spending on public health in general, but there is a partisan divide and divisions within specific areas. Meanwhile, most people believe the US is not spending enough on improving and protecting public health, and many see long-term savings from measures to improve health and prevention.
Elsevier supports Doctors Without Borders for second year through 'The Great Giveback' campaign
Elsevier will donate 10% of its revenue to MSF for all subscriptions to MD Consult, purchased between Nov. 15 and Dec. 31, 2010. This campaign aims to provide medical assistance and support to people around the world affected by war, natural disasters, and other crises.
Home exposure to tobacco carcinogens high in children of smokers
A study by the American Association for Cancer Research found that 90% of children exposed to a smoker at home had detectable levels of tobacco carcinogens in their urine. The researchers also discovered a direct correlation between cigarettes smoked per day and tobacco metabolites in the children.
Undetected high blood pressure associated with more deaths from heart attacks
A study by the University of Leicester found that undetected high blood pressure is associated with a higher risk of dying from coronary heart disease. The research reveals that areas with greater deprivation, more smokers, and more people with diabetes have a higher mortality rate from coronary heart disease.
NASA watching Jal's remnants in the Arabian Sea for possible rebirth
Cyclone Jal's remnants have been spotted in the Arabian Sea, with NASA monitoring their movement. The low-pressure area showed signs of circulation and convection on Nov. 9, indicating a potential for regeneration.
Depression linked to altered activity of circadian rhythm gene
A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders suggests that depression is associated with increased activity of the Clock gene, which regulates circadian rhythm. This finding could lead to personalized treatment approaches for people with depression, such as light therapy or antidepressants targeting melatonin.
JQI Fellows Waks and Spielman receive Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers
Edo Waks and Ian Spielman, JQI fellows, receive PECASE awards for innovative research in nanophotonics and quantum simulation. The prestigious award recognizes their commitment to scientific leadership and community outreach.
New heart pump to provide temporary assist for infants, adults
Researchers have developed a new type of heart pump to improve the survival rate for infants undergoing surgeries to correct univentricular circulation. The innovative 'viscous impeller pump' can be inserted through a catheter and expands to form two cones, spinning at 10,000 rpm to efficiently pump blood.
DNA reveals origins of first European farmers
A recent genetic study has overturned current thinking on the origins of European farming populations. The research, published in PLOS Biology, found that these early farmers were more closely related to populations living in modern-day Turkey, Iraq, and other parts of the Ancient Near East than to local hunter-gatherers.
Rural library outreach a new initiative in 'free-choice learning' movement
A new initiative by Oregon State University aims to enhance science literacy among rural Americans through free-choice learning opportunities. The program seeks to tap into local scientific expertise, organize events, and create adult 'science clubs' across the nation.
Lab on chip for membrane proteins
A novel lab-on-chip device has been developed to screen sensitive membrane proteins in parallel, utilizing a nano-fabricated chip with 50,000 nanopores. This technology preserves protein structure without organic solvents or solid support, enabling simultaneous analysis and preserving fragile protein function.
Growth defects in cystic fibrosis may start before birth
A new study found that infants with cystic fibrosis have reduced IGF1 levels compared to healthy infants, suggesting that IGF1 deficits begin early in the course of CF disease. This could lead to new therapies for growth defects in people with CF.
Changing family behavior helps schizophrenic patients avoid relapse
A new Cochrane systematic review found that changing family behavior can help prevent relapses in people with schizophrenia. The study analyzed data from 53 trials involving over 4,700 patients and showed significant benefits of family interventions, including reduced hospital admissions and improved social functioning.
Sick at work and surfing the net? You're not alone -- or are you?
Presenteeism, a measure of productivity loss due to health issues, may be overreported. The University of Michigan's School of Kinesiology suggests a three-year moratorium on studies due to inaccurate calculations and limited data collection methods.
Children with high blood pressure more likely to have learning disabilities
A new study by University of Rochester Medical Center found that children with high blood pressure are four times more likely to have cognitive problems. Among the study's 201 patients, 101 had hypertension and 18% had learning disabilities, compared to 9% among those without hypertension.