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Science News Archive July 2010 - Page 10


Page 10 of 23

JCI online early table of contents: July 19, 2010

A study found that drugs inhibiting the protein MTOR can impair heart function in patients with ongoing heart dysfunction. Additionally, researchers discovered that deleting the protein 4E-BP1 improved heart function and survival in mice. These findings suggest a potential new therapeutic strategy for improving heart health.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 19, 2010

Socioeconomic status not associated with access to cochlear implants

Poor children with hearing loss have equal access to cochlear implants, but experience more complications and poor follow-up compliance compared to their higher-income peers. The study found a five-fold greater risk of complications in Medicaid-insured children, highlighting the need for improved access to these life-changing devices.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateJul 19, 2010

Report examines relationship between nasal zinc gels and loss of sense of smell

A report examines the relationship between nasal zinc gels and loss of sense of smell in patients. The study found that intranasal zinc gluconate therapy may be associated with a permanent reduction in sense of smell due to chemical injury. Experts recommend increased FDA oversight for homeopathic medications to monitor their safety.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateJul 19, 2010

Bridging the gender gap

Researchers have developed a new technique combining flexible sigmoidoscopy with optical technologies to detect colon cancer more accurately in women. The test identified subtle changes in tissue that indicate the presence of cancer, providing hope for improving discrepancies in screening accuracy between men and women.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCancer Prevention Research·DateJul 19, 2010

Tuning cocaine addiction

Reducing Ago2-dependent microRNA expression reduces cocaine consumption in mice, suggesting a link between genetic regulation and addiction. Further research is needed to determine which microRNAs control cocaine addiction and whether similar pathways operate in humans.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJul 19, 2010

Computer program predicts MRSA's next move

Duke University researchers have developed a computer program that can predict the next moves of a dangerous bacteria, such as MRSA. The algorithm identifies potential resistance mutations before testing begins, allowing for more effective drug design and potentially saving lives.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 2010

The essential ingredients of supportive sibling relationships

Research suggests that reducing conflict is not enough to create a positive sibling relationship. Parents should focus on encouraging positive interactions, such as scheduling family activities and teaching problem-solving skills. By doing so, they can help their children develop skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.

A dead Sirt(3) to protect preimplantation embryos

A recent study by Hiroki Kurihara's team at the University of Tokyo discovered that Sirt3 helps safeguard mouse embryos against oxidative stress induced by in vitro fertilization and culture. The findings suggest that the negative effects of Sirt3 inactivation can be mitigated by using antioxidants or low-oxygen conditions during IVF.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 19, 2010

Uncovering behavior of long-dead insects

Researchers from Natural History Museum of Bern reveal courtship behaviors of male parasitoid wasps through antennal structures and coiling behavior. The study, published in BMC Evolutionary Biology, emphasizes the importance of natural history museum collections.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateJul 19, 2010

Prolonged mobile phone use may be linked to tinnitus

A small study published in Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that regular mobile phone use for at least four years may double the risk of developing chronic tinnitus. The prevalence of chronic tinnitus is increasing, with around 10-15% of people in developed countries affected.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateJul 19, 2010

Transparency through open notes

A study by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center investigated the effects of transparency through open notes, revealing mixed views among doctors and patients regarding the benefits and drawbacks. The trial involved over 100 primary care doctors and 25,000 patients, who reviewed their medical records online.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJul 19, 2010

Of bugs and brains: Caltech researchers discover that gut bacteria affect multiple sclerosis

A study by Caltech researchers found that specific intestinal bacteria can induce MS-like symptoms in animals, suggesting a link between gut microbes and the disease. The bacteria, from the segmented filamentous bacteria group, were able to replicate and cause inflammation in both the gut and central nervous system.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 2010

Pitt team designs artificial cells that communicate and cooperate like biological cells, ants

A team of University of Pittsburgh engineers has designed artificial cells capable of self-organizing, performing tasks, and transporting cargo. The cells interact through nanoparticles and can be controlled to perform specific functions, offering a significant step towards synthetic cells that behave like natural organisms.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 19, 2010

Springer to publish Journal of NeuroVirology

The Journal of NeuroVirology will cover new areas in neurovirology, including non-viral infections affecting the central nervous system. Springer's acquisition will support the International Society for NeuroVirology and advance knowledge in the field.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of NeuroVirology·DateJul 19, 2010

Impaired activity of the protein MTOR a strain on the heart

Researchers found that mice lacking MTOR in their heart muscle cells developed a fatal heart condition, highlighting the potential adverse effects of MTOR inhibitors on heart health. Deletion of 4E-BP1 improved heart function and survival, suggesting a new therapeutic strategy for improving heart function in patients with heart failure.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 19, 2010

Do cleaning products cause breast cancer?

Researchers found that women who used more air fresheners and products for mold and mildew control had a higher incidence of breast cancer. The study suggests that cleaning products may contribute to breast cancer risk, highlighting the need for further investigation into this potential link.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateJul 19, 2010

Global model confirms: Cool roofs can offset carbon dioxide emissions and mitigate global warming

A new study using a global model confirms that implementing cool roofs and pavements in cities can cancel the heating effect of up to two years of worldwide carbon dioxide emissions, equivalent to taking 300 million cars off the road. This can help delay warming and mitigate global climate change.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJul 19, 2010