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Science News Archive April 2010 - Page 7


Page 7 of 24

Complete revascularization improves outcomes for CAD patients

A retrospective study found that complete revascularization significantly improved outcomes for patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), with a 3-year mortality rate of 6.6% compared to 14.8% in those with incomplete revascularization. The study also revealed that advanced medical therapy may contribute to improved mortality rates.

SourceWiley·JournalCatheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions·DateApr 23, 2010

Forecasting rates of overweight

A study published in Medical Decision Making predicts that adult US obesity rates will remain stable over the next 10 years. However, certain groups such as black young adults, children aged 6-9, and black children are projected to experience rising overweight rates.

SourceSAGE·JournalMedical Decision Making·DateApr 23, 2010

Making its predators tremble: Multiple defenses act synergistically in aspen

A study on trembling aspen found that phenolic glycosides and extrafloral nectaries are distributed together in the same leaves, contradicting previous assumptions. The presence of extrafloral nectaries is positively correlated with higher levels of chemical defenses, suggesting a complex relationship between these defense mechanisms.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateApr 23, 2010

Subtle changes in PTEN tumor suppressor gene can determine cancer susceptibility

A new study reveals that even slight reductions in PTEN expression can significantly increase cancer susceptibility in specific tissues, implying that environmental factors like diet and carcinogens may drive tumor development. This finding has implications for the development of diagnostic tests targeted to these gene alterations.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 23, 2010

Genomes of citrus canker pathogens decoded

The study provides genomic information that suggests possible intervention targets for further experimental investigation. The genome sequences of the two new bacterial strains will help researchers zero in on the molecular basis of citrus canker, shedding light on why one strain is more virulent than its counterparts.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalBMC Genomics·DateApr 22, 2010

Where there's smoke ...

A new study by Tel Aviv University researchers reveals that pollution can significantly alter thunderstorm intensity, leading to changes in local weather patterns and rainfall. The study used lightning patterns as a quantitative measure of the impact of air pollution on cloud development over large areas.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 22, 2010

World-first study for cleaner aviation fuel

A team of experts has embarked on a groundbreaking project to develop sustainable aviation fuels in Australia and New Zealand. The Sustainable Aviation Fuels Road Map aims to accelerate the development of bio-derived jet fuels that can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the aviation sector.

Extremely preterm babies face long-term lung deficits

Research found that extremely preterm infants have abnormal lung function and are twice as likely to have asthma. Lung function impairment persists into middle childhood, especially those with bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Early monitoring and treatment can minimize long-term respiratory problems.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateApr 22, 2010

Magnitude of overdiagnosis in cancer indicates need for strategies to address the problem

A recent review found that approximately 25% of breast cancers and 60% of prostate cancers detected by screening tests may not be destined to cause symptoms or death due to overdiagnosis. This phenomenon leads to unnecessary treatment and other harms, emphasizing the need for strategies to address it.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 22, 2010

Family caregiving stress filled and isolating

A recent study found that family caregivers with dementia experience a wide range of stressors, including behavior issues and financial strain. While existing interventions focus on specific stressors, research suggests that a one-size-fits-all approach is insufficient, highlighting the need for personalized interventions.

SourcePenn State·JournalAging & Mental Health·DateApr 22, 2010

Strep steps up in urinary tract infections

Research reveals that pathogenic strains of Group B Streptococcus (GBS) cause urinary tract infections by binding to bladder cells and triggering high levels of interleukin, an inflammatory cytokine. GBS infection may be more common than previously thought due to lack of clear risk factors.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateApr 22, 2010

Periodic heart rate decelerations in premature infants

A study published in Experimental Biology and Medicine reports the discovery of periodic heart rate decelerations in premature human infants. The researchers developed a mathematical model based on Hopf bifurcation theory to describe the dynamics of these decelerations, which are statistically correlated with impending sepsis in neonates.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology and Medicine·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateApr 22, 2010