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Science News for August 24, 2010


How to count the messenger out

Researchers have described the effects of messengers on infrared spectroscopy of protonated water clusters, allowing for better interpretation of spectroscopic data. The study reveals unexpected interactions between messenger molecules and cluster structures, enabling more accurate analysis of molecular vibrations.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateAug 24, 2010

Researchers find gene responsible for neurodegenerative disease in dogs, possibly in humans

A team of researchers discovered a gene responsible for a rare and fatal disease in American Staffordshire terriers. The same gene is believed to cause a similar disease in humans. Genetic analysis led to the identification of an entirely new mutation, which can be tested in human samples to determine its connection to Kufs' disease.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2010

Lipid peroxides -- more sophisticated than their reputation

A joint study by Helmholtz Zentrum München and Karolinska Institutet reveals that lipid peroxides temporarily inactivate protein tyrosine phosphatases, regulating cellular communication. This finding is crucial as aberrant activation of receptor tyrosine kinases contributes to various diseases, including cancer.

2 UH chemists receive national recognition

University of Houston chemists Rigoberto Advincula and Mamie Moy received ACS Fellowships, recognizing their outstanding contributions to science and the chemistry profession. Their research focuses on polymer and nanomaterials, with potential applications in chemical sensors, energy transfer, and more.

IT can help CVD management

A recent study published in PLOS Medicine suggests that IT-based programs can support clinicians to close gaps in CVD care delivery, including risk assessment and patient self-management. The authors emphasize the need for a supportive social and political environment to fully realize the potential of these programs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 24, 2010

A moment on the lips, a year on the hips

A four-week episode of increased energy intake and decreased exercise caused significant weight gain, which was mostly lost within six months. However, the intervention group showed an increased fat mass compared to baseline after two and a half years, highlighting the long-term effects of short-term behavioral changes.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalNutrition and Metabolism·DateAug 24, 2010

Salmon baby food? Babies need omega-3s and a taste for fish, scientist says

A University of Illinois professor has developed a nutritious salmon baby food for toddlers, citing the importance of omega-3 fatty acids for brain development and preventing coronary artery disease. The product's taste was found to be mild and appealing to parents, with an encouraging sensory panel response.

New study shows how giant tortoises, alligators thrived in High Arctic 50 million years ago

A new study reveals that ancient alligators and giant tortoises lived on Ellesmere Island above the Arctic Circle despite six months of darkness, with average temperatures ranging from 66-68°F (19-20°C). The research provides insights into past and future biodiversity in the High Arctic as climate change impacts the region.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEarth and Planetary Science Letters·DateAug 24, 2010

Engineering shorter wait times in the ER

Researchers used Six Sigma design strategy to improve ER triage process, reducing patient waiting time and length of stay. The approach sorted patients into treatment areas based on condition severity, not arrival time, resulting in significant reductions in wait times and stays.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Six Sigma and Competitive Advantage·DateAug 24, 2010

Darwin's family tree rediscovered

A Galton-Darwin-Wedgwood pedigree has been found in the archives of Truman State University, revealing new insights into Charles Darwin's family life. The discovery, made by Professor Tim Berra, provides a unique window into the personal life of the famous scientist.

SourceWiley·JournalBiological Journal of the Linnean Society·DateAug 24, 2010

A case for exercising

Researchers found that exercising obese rodents showed restored signals of satiety in hypothalamic neurons, leading to decreased food intake. The study's findings suggest a new paradigm for physical activity and weight loss, reinforcing the importance of regular exercise.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 24, 2010

Fat distribution plays a role in weight loss success in patients at risk of diabetes

A study using MRI and MR spectroscopy found that abdominal and liver fat are key predictors of successful weight loss in individuals at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. After a lifestyle intervention, participants with lower baseline levels of these fats experienced greater reductions in body weight and improved insulin sensitivity.

Will cardiovascular disease prevention widen health inequalities?

A review of population strategies for preventing cardiovascular disease concludes that screening and treating high-risk individuals may be ineffective in reducing health disparities. Instead, policy interventions to limit risk-factor exposure across populations appear cheaper and more effective.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 24, 2010