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Science News for March 4, 2010


Emergency online communities

Research highlights the need for emergency online communities to address the psychological and social needs of people with disabilities during disasters. The study proposes three main objectives: developing coordinated online social networks, establishing adequate infrastructure, and conducting emergency training and simulation.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Emergency Management·DateMar 4, 2010

Mussels -- material artists with grip

Researchers have discovered that the byssal cuticle of mussels is a protein-based polymeric scaffold stabilized by dopa-iron complexes, enabling its unique hardness and extensibility. The cuticle's mechanical behavior allows it to dissipate energy from crashing waves while resisting abrasive damage.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateMar 4, 2010

Therapeutic effect of worm-derived proteins on experimental colitis

A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that worm-derived proteins attenuate intestinal inflammation and normalize gastrointestinal motility disturbances in mice with colitis. The results suggest that worm proteins may provide an attractive option for managing gastrointestinal inflammation in IBD patients.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMar 4, 2010

New study shows teens who drink 100 percent fruit juice have more nutritious diets overall

A new study published in the American Journal of Health Promotion shows that teenagers who consume 100% fruit juice have a more nutrient-dense diet compared to non-consumers. The study found lower intakes of total dietary fat and saturated fat, as well as higher intakes of key nutrients like Vitamins C and B6, folate, potassium, and iron.

SourceKellen Communications·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Promotion·DateMar 4, 2010

Endoscopy-based early enterostomy closure

A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that early enterostomy closure via endoscopy significantly reduces hospital stay duration and stoma closure time. The researchers used endoscopic examination to determine optimal closure timing, concluding it's a useful predictor for this procedure.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMar 4, 2010

Call forwarding: New NIST procedure could speed cell phone testing

Researchers at NIST have developed a new method for simulating wireless signal environments, reducing the time required for testing cellular phones by hours. The new technique uses a reverberation chamber to replicate complex real-world environments, enabling faster and more accurate design and test of wireless equipment.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalIEEE Antennas and Wireless Propagation Letters·DateMar 4, 2010

Creating a dream breed

A Spanish company, Isidro De La Cal-Fresco, has developed a breeding method for the blackspot seabream using EUREKA funding. They have created a commercial diet, Besugo Power, which helps fish grow quicker and healthier, making it possible to produce the fish at a competitive price.

SourceEUREKA·DateMar 4, 2010

CT-scan screening for LAM in women with collapsed lung is cost-effective

Researchers found that high-resolution CT-scans are the most cost-effective strategy to screen for lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) in non-smoking women between 25-54 with collapsed lung. Screening can identify LAM earlier, improving quality of life and allowing for early treatment and clinical trial enrollment.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 4, 2010

Colorectal cancer in China

A study published in World Journal of Gastroenterology found that the mean age of colorectal cancer in China increased across four regions, with East Guangdong having the highest mean age. The anatomic distribution, histological type, and differentiation type also varied significantly between regions.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMar 4, 2010

A novel in vitro model for light-induced wound healing

A team of researchers has created a new in vitro model for studying the effects of light on wound healing. They found that exposure to blue-violet light increases mitochondrial activity, cell proliferation, and growth factor secretion in human epidermal keratinocytes. These results suggest that blue light may be useful in enhancing epi...

'Match' Madness: Picking upsets a losing strategy

Research from Indiana University and the University of Wyoming found that picking lower-seed winners is a good strategy, while upsets are no better than chance. Experts advise against relying on intuition or favorite colors, as this approach often leads to sabotaging efforts.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Applied Social Psychology·DateMar 4, 2010

Scientists find new form of prion disease that damages brain arteries

Scientists have discovered a new form of prion disease that causes brain artery damage, distinct from the typical sponge-like brain deterioration. The study may hold clues for treating Alzheimer's disease, as researchers found that removing a specific anchor from prion protein could prevent plaque accumulation and block fluid drainage.