How lead gets into urban vegetable gardens
Researchers found that 81% of urban vegetable gardens in Boston had lead levels above the EPA limit, rising to an average of 336 micrograms per gram in just four years.
Science News Archive 2010
Browse by Month - 2010
Page 47 of 283
Physical fitness curbs frequency and severity of colds
Research on 1,000 adults aged 18-85 found that physically fit individuals experience fewer and milder colds. Exercise was shown to boost immune system cells, reducing infection frequency by 43% and symptom severity by 41%.
New potential drug combination for most common form of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medical College have identified a potential new combinatorial therapy for diffuse large B cell lymphoma, the most common form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Combining an inhibitor of BCL6 with either HDAC proteins or Hsp90 protein enhanced killing of cancer cells in vitro and suppressed tumor growth in mice.
Anti-obesity program for low-income kids shows promise, Stanford/Packard study finds
A two-year dance class program for African-American girls in low-income neighborhoods showed benefits in cholesterol, LDL cholesterol levels, and reduced symptoms of depression. However, the program had little effect on weight loss.
Researchers developing real-time electronic monitoring for coastal waters
A team of researchers at North Carolina State University is developing a low-cost, wireless sensor system to monitor water quality in real-time. The system will enable scientists to track environmental health and answer ecological research questions, such as the impact of oyster activity on environmental conditions.
Morrison Natural History Museum discovers baby sauropod tracks
The Morrison Natural History Museum has discovered infant dinosaur footprints, representing baby sauropods, in the Late Jurassic period. The tracks suggest that Morrison was an apatosaur nursery, with evidence of a running trackway demonstrating only hindpaw tracks.
US nuclear safety claim is a 'dangerous fantasy'
Research published in the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists warns that US missile defense systems are not reliable and would not be effective in combat conditions. The authors propose a new drone-based system as an alternative, which could reliably intercept long-range ballistic missiles before they reach their targets.
Home visit program for at-risk first-time mothers associated with delaying their next pregnancy
A home visit program for high-risk mothers appears to increase the likelihood of waiting at least two years to have a second child. The program demonstrates benefits in rural areas, where it may be better suited to meet community needs and avoid overwhelming caseloads.
Studies assess complications and deaths from 2009 H1N1 influenza among children
Studies found that more than one-fourth of children hospitalized with 2009 H1N1 required intensive care or died. Children with underlying illnesses and infants born prematurely were at greater risk of severe complications. The virus spread rapidly worldwide, particularly in children and young adults.
Research explores lung cancer among pediatric cancer patients
Researchers found lung adenocarcinomas in young patients with pediatric cancers, displaying similar gene mutations as adult cases. The tumors may occur prior to chemotherapy treatment and are not always secondary malignancies.
Microfluidics-imaging platform detects cancer growth signaling in minute biopsy samples
A new microfluidics-imaging platform can detect cancer growth signaling in tiny biopsy samples, allowing for faster and more efficient screening. This method uses an integrated platform to measure kinase activity from as few as 3,000 cells, enabling direct experimentation on patient samples.
Mayo researchers find mortality rates from liver diseases underestimated
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have found that mortality rates from liver diseases are underestimated, with the condition ranking as high as fourth for certain age groups. The study analyzed data from 1979-2006 and found a significant correlation between national statistics and local mortality data.
Canada can learn from circumpolar neighbours to improve health care in the north
Inequities in health care exist across circumpolar countries, with some nations having healthy populations in the north and others facing lower health outcomes despite high expenditures. Canada can strengthen partnerships and adopt best practices to improve its northern health care system.
Pregnant women who eat peanuts may put infants at increased risk for peanut allergy
Researchers found that pregnant women who consumed peanuts during pregnancy had infants with strong sensitivity to peanuts. The study suggests a potential risk factor for peanut allergy in infants, highlighting the need for further research.
Veterans with bipolar disorder may have increased risk of suicide
A study examining over 3 million veterans found that those with bipolar disorder were more likely to die by suicide than any other psychiatric diagnosis. The risk was highest in men with bipolar disorder, followed by depression, substance use disorders, and PTSD.
AAN: Any athlete suspected of having concussion should be removed from play
The American Academy of Neurology calls for athletes suspected of having a concussion to be removed from play until evaluation by a trained physician. This recommendation aims to prevent catastrophic results and promote high-quality, safe care for athletes in contact sports.
Imaging in depth: 3-dimensional microscopy featured in Cold Spring Harbor Protocols
The article reviews standard and cutting-edge laboratory techniques for three-dimensional biological imaging, including confocal microscopy and array tomography. These methods allow for the visualization of previously inaccessible features of tissue structure and molecular architecture.
If GMO genes escape, how will the hybrids do?
Researchers investigated how GMO gene flow impacts sorghum-shattercane wild-crop hybrids. The study found that the hybrids outperformed their parents in terms of growth and competitiveness, but produced fewer seeds.
Childhood stroke study identifies the contraceptive pill and smoking as risk factors
A recent study published in Acta Paediatrica found that childhood stroke is a serious condition with significant long-term effects. The study identified the combined effects of oral contraceptives and smoking as major risk factors for childhood stroke, affecting up to 85% of children who survived a stroke.
Grasses have potential as alternate ethanol crop, Illinois study finds
Researchers found that miscanthus has a high yield, up to three times higher than switchgrass in the Midwest, but also a higher initial cost. Biofuel grasses could be viable under certain conditions, with potential benefits for energy security and climate change mitigation.
UV light nearly doubles vacuum's effectiveness in reducing carpet microbes
Researchers found that incorporating ultraviolet light into vacuuming can reduce surface microbes by 87 percent, nearly doubling the removal of potentially infectious microorganisms from carpets. Vacuuming alone reduced microbes by 78 percent.
Extraverts are more vulnerable to effects of sleep deprivation after social interaction
A study found that extraverts who were exposed to 12 hours of social interaction were more vulnerable to subsequent sleep deprivation than those in isolated conditions. Introverts showed greater resistance to sleep loss, suggesting a trait-like factor.
High-calorie beverages still widely available in elementary schools
A study found that high-calorie beverages are still widely available in elementary schools in the US, with 61.3% of schools offering them for sale in competitive venues. Despite this, only 16.1% of students had access to low-calorie options
Management science guru, surviving cancer, offers hope to fellow sufferers, doctors
Stephen Barrager, a management science guru, survived acute multiple myeloma by applying engineering and management science principles. He developed the 'Cancer Quarterback' and 'Decision Coach' models to help patients navigate treatment options and communicate with doctors more effectively.
Childhood sexual abuse may be a risk factor for later psychotic illness
A comprehensive study found that children who experienced childhood sexual abuse were at significantly higher risk of developing psychosis and schizophrenia disorders. The research highlights the importance of ongoing clinical and social support for affected individuals to improve their functioning and adaptation to adulthood.
Comprehensive nutrition services vital to children's health
School meal programs play a significant role in keeping children healthy and are an essential component of coordinated school health programs. Integrating comprehensive nutrition services within the school environment improves children's dietary intake and academic performance.
1 egg yolk worse than a KFC Double Down when it comes to cholesterol
A review published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology finds that consuming egg yolks can significantly increase cardiovascular risk for patients at risk of vascular disease. The researchers advise limiting dietary cholesterol to less than 200mg per day and recommend alternative protein sources like egg whites.
Utah researchers discover how brain is wired for attention
University of Utah researchers discovered a miniature map in the brain that helps us focus attention on different stimuli. This map is found in multiple areas of the brain and has important implications for understanding diseases such as autism, schizophrenia, and attention deficit disorder.
Pivoting hooks of graphene's chemical cousin could revolutionize work of electron microscopes
Researchers at the University of Warwick have discovered molecular hooks on Graphene Oxide that enable precise imaging and analysis of molecules using transmission electron microscopes. These hooks allow for high-contrast imaging and the study of molecule interactions with supporting graphene.
81 percent of hospital patients at high risk for sleep apnea
A Loyola University Health System study found that 80.5% of hospitalized patients are at high risk for obstructive sleep apnea, a condition that can cause poor sleep quality and excessive daytime sleepiness. The study suggests that hospitals should consider administering a simple screening test to identify these patients.
King crab distributions limited by temperature in the Southern Ocean
Newly published findings reveal king crabs' distribution is influenced by water temperature in the Southern Ocean. The thermal barrier limits their biogeographical distribution, and even small increases in temperature due to global warming could lead to their spread into new areas.
JCI online early table of contents: Nov. 1, 2010
Researchers have identified a potential new drug combination for treating diffuse large B cell lymphoma and found potential therapeutic targets for Noonan syndrome. The combination of an inhibitor of BCL6 with either an HDAC protein or Hsp90 protein showed enhanced killing of cancer cells in vitro and potent suppression of tumor growth...
OGI invests in personalized medicine for age-related macular degeneration
The Ontario Genomics Institute is investing in ArcticDx's Macula Risk test, which detects genetic variations predicting AMD progression. The test may help target effective care to those who need it most and relieve uncertainty for others.
Pitt study finds NSAIDs cause stem cells to self-destruct, preventing colon cancer
Researchers found that NSAIDs like aspirin trigger programmed cell death in abnormal stem cells, preventing colon cancer. This discovery could lead to new strategies for protecting people at high risk of the disease.
LSU researchers awarded 1 of the largest NSF grants in Louisiana history
The Louisiana Alliance for Simulation-Guided Materials Applications (LA-SiGMA) will focus on three science drivers: electronic, energy and biomolecular materials. The alliance aims to build a critical mass of researchers in computational materials and biology through collaborations, shared courses and education.
Toothache more common among minority and special needs children
A recent study published in Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine found that approximately 10.7% of U.S. children experienced a toothache in the previous six months. Toothache was most common among black and multiracial children, poor children, and those with special health care needs.
New drug may provide more cost-effective stroke prevention than warfarin, Stanford/VA study shows
A newly approved drug, dabigatran, has been found to be a cost-effective alternative to warfarin for preventing strokes in patients with atrial fibrillation. The analysis suggests that high-dose dabigatran yields an additional 0.56 quality-adjusted-life-year compared to conventional therapy with warfarin.
Possible new drug targets for the genetic disorder Noonan syndrome
A study has identified two key signaling pathways - Ras/MAPK and Rac/Stat3 - that are activated in the hearts of mice with a Noonan syndrome-associated Sos1 mutation. These pathways may be crucial for understanding the development of heart defects in individuals with the disorder.
Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine
Researchers found that patient age may diminish the death benefit of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators. Moderate to severe pain was common in patients' final years, especially for those with arthritis. E-cigarettes pose a new challenge for physicians counseling patients to abstain from nicotine due to safety concerns and potentia...
Slight change in wind turbine speed significantly reduces bat mortality
A study published in Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment found that raising wind turbine cut-in speeds to 11 mph reduces bat fatalities by 44-93% and annual power loss by less than 1%. This change limits turbines to operating only during higher wind speeds, minimizing bat collisions.
Very large protected areas preserve wilderness but ignore rare species
A study by Lisette Cantú-Salazar and Kevin J. Gaston found that large protected areas are crucial for preserving natural species assemblages, while also being vulnerable to inadequate management and human activities such as logging and mining. The researchers suggest that these areas should be prioritized for conservation efforts
Study: Race plays a minor role in forging Facebook friendships
A new study by Harvard University sociologists found that old-fashioned social pressure is the strongest attraction in determining who befriends whom on Facebook. Shared ethnic backgrounds and geographic origins also played a significant role in forming friendships. Meanwhile, race appears to be less important than initially thought.
Cancer drug linked to quantum dots increases drug uptake, reduces inflammation
Researchers at the University at Buffalo have developed a technology using quantum dots that can deliver a cancer drug specifically to lung cells without causing inflammation, increasing drug uptake and reducing side effects. The study shows promise for treating tuberculosis and other inflammatory lung diseases.
How do we kill rogue cells?
A team of researchers has identified how the protein perforin kills rogue cells, which could lead to new treatments for cancer, malaria, and diabetes. The study reveals that perforin assembles to punch holes in cell membranes, allowing toxic enzymes to destroy infected cells.
Researchers could use plant's light switch to control cells
Researchers have created a novel 'on-off switch' using a plant's light-activated proteins to control cell functions. The blue-light switch has been successfully tested in yeast, mammalian cells and cultured rodent brain tissue, offering a new approach for controlling cell growth, death and delivering medication directly to diseased cells.
Speed installation of system to monitor vital signs of global ocean, scientists urge
A comprehensive ocean observation system is needed to track changes in acidification, water temperature, sea level, and polar ice cover. The system would provide critical information for human needs, including climate regulation and oxygen production.
Immune system's bare essentials used to speedily detect drug targets
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed a new epitope-mapping laboratory test that can pinpoint the unique binding site for disease-causing pathogens within three weeks. The test uses five essential proteins involved in antigen processing by immune system cells, speeding up the development of cancer vaccines and diagnostic...
Mars volcanic deposit tells of warm and wet environment
A team of researchers at Brown University discovered a mineral deposit on Mars that speaks of a warm and wet past, potentially preserving evidence of microbial life. The deposit, located in the Syrtis Major volcanic zone, is believed to have formed in a hydrothermal environment.
Immune system assassin's tricks visualized for the first time
Researchers have successfully visualized the human immune system's assassin protein perforin, revealing how it punches holes in cancerous or infected cells. The study provides insights into the protein's structure and function, which could lead to new ways of fighting cancer, malaria, and diabetes.
Chemists concoct new agents to easily study critical cell proteins
A team of researchers has created a technology to extract complex membrane proteins without distorting their shape, enabling scientists to better understand the properties and functions of these proteins. This breakthrough could facilitate research at the biomedical frontier.
University of Guam receives $1.3M grant
The University of Guam has received a five-year $1.3M grant from the US Department of Education to increase retention and academic success among first-year Pacific Islander freshmen. The Kubre program will focus on providing quality support services such as tutoring, mentoring, and career exploration to help students succeed in math.
Researchers engineer miniature human livers in the lab
Scientists have successfully engineered miniature human livers that function like real ones in a laboratory setting. The next step is to test their function after transplantation in animal models, with the ultimate goal of providing a solution to the liver transplant shortage.
Donor race may impact recurrent hepatitis C in liver transplant patients
A recent study by Henry Ford Hospital found that the race of liver donors may impact recurrent hepatitis C in patients after liver transplant. Patients receiving white cadaveric donor grafts had significantly more aggressive recurrent hepatitis C than those receiving grafts from African-American donors, regardless of recipient race. Th...
Biologists, educators recognize excellence in evolution education
W. Jason Niedermeyer, a high school biology teacher in Oregon, received the 2010 Evolution Education Award for his innovative approaches to teaching evolution. His curriculum focuses on inquiry-based learning and utilizes hands-on labs, class discussions, and student activities to promote accurate understanding of biological evolution.
Precisely targeted radiation controls sinus cancer with fewer side effects
Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center found that precisely targeted radiation therapy is a safe and effective treatment for paranasal sinus cancer, controlling the disease with fewer serious side effects. The study used intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
Malaria elimination will require greater and more predictable financing; the economic benefits of elimination may justify this increased cost
Eliminating malaria will cost more than controlling the disease, with only moderate cost savings expected in one country. The authors suggest a paradigm shift in international funding is needed to support elimination efforts.
Elimination cannot be business as usual: All interventions need scale-up, reservoirs of infections must be drained and emphasis placed on prevention of cases imported from other countries
Countries seeking to eliminate malaria must adopt a new approach, prioritizing proactive case detection, treatment with effective drugs like primaquine, and preventive measures. Effective elimination strategies are needed despite operational challenges and high costs.
Malaria elmination, worthy, challenging and just possible: But only with a vaccine
The Lancet Series on Malaria Elimination concludes that a vaccine is crucial for successful elimination, but current efforts are hindered by high transmission rates, poor health systems, and lack of leadership. The series highlights the need for balance, humility, and rigorous analysis to pursue malaria elimination.
New NSF grant for interactive community computer simulation to restore watersheds
Researchers at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis are developing an interactive computer simulation framework to improve watershed management practices. The new $410,000 grant will enable community members to participate in restoring ecological balance and make informed decisions about water management alternatives.
Is the ice at the South Pole melting?
Researchers have found significant regional variations in the western Antarctic ice sheet due to El Nino fluctuations, affecting global sea levels. The study suggests that precipitation patterns play a crucial role in mass balance changes, with the Antarctic Peninsula experiencing increased snowfall during La Nina years.