A fat cell grows up
A team of scientists found an intermediate state during the formation of fat cells, induced by hormones related to cortisol. This transition state could be targeted for new therapies to combat obesity and metabolic disorders.
Science News for May 17, 2010
Gene loss causes leukemia
T-ALL is caused by interplay of various factors including genetic errors that disrupt white blood cell formation. The study identifies PTPN2 as a tumor suppressor gene lost in leukemia patients, contributing to cancerous cell proliferation.
Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine
A new study by researchers found that measuring bone density before starting ADT can help prevent fractures and reduce costs. Another study suggests that CTCA can identify patients who need more invasive testing for heart disease.
Study examines factors that may predict if patients will be satisfied with facial plastic surgery
A study of patients undergoing elective facial plastic surgery found that older patients and those currently being treated for depression are more likely to be satisfied with the results. However, optimism and pessimism do not appear to be related to satisfaction.
Study looks at major advances in pediatric epilepsy surgery at UCLA over 2 decades
A new study from UCLA's Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery Program found significant improvements in surgical outcomes for pediatric epilepsy patients over the past two decades. The researchers attribute the success to advancements in diagnostic technology and experience in selection and operations.
EMS can prevent limb and respiratory muscle weakness in ICU patients
A study published by Greek researchers found that electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) can prevent critical illness polyneuromyopathy (CIPNM), a common complication of ICU stay. EMS reduced the risk of CIPNM and improved muscle strength in patients, shortening weaning periods and ICU stays.
Bacterial growths may offer clues about Earth's distant past
Researchers link bacterial spacing to photosynthesis, providing new insights into ancient fossils and the evolution of life. By studying microbial mats, they discovered a consistent one-centimeter spacing that records the maximum distance bacteria can compete for nutrients.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 17, 2010
DFA unreliable in H1N1 testing in critically ill patients
A recent study from Stanford University found that DFA testing for H1N1 influenza is unreliable in critically ill patients. The test was more accurate in non-critical cases, with a 26% positive rate in ICU patients compared to an 82% positive rate in non-ICU patients.
New research links decline of endangered California delta smelt to nutrient pollution
A new study suggests that reducing nitrogen pollution in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Bay-Delta could help restore the endangered California delta smelt population. The research found that high levels of nitrogen from wastewater treatment plants are affecting the food web and altering the ecology of the system.
SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalReviews in Fisheries Science·DateMay 17, 2010
Navy awards new science ship to Scripps Institution of Oceanography
The US Navy has selected Scripps Institution of Oceanography to operate a new scientific research vessel, advancing science and education in the decades ahead. The Ocean Class ship will lead ocean expeditions advancing knowledge on global climate change, submarine warfare, and more.
New breakthrough in fight against lethal CCHF virus
Scientists have developed an immune-deficient mouse model to study CCHF virus behavior in humans, a significant step towards vaccine and antiviral development. The model can help evaluate the safety and effectiveness of potential treatments, addressing the lack of suitable animal models for testing.
Switching medications and continuing treatment could help teens with severe depression
A recent study found that teenagers with treatment-resistant depression can become symptom-free within six months of switching medications or combining a medicine switch with cognitive behavioral therapy. Those who showed improvement in symptoms early on were more likely to experience lasting benefits.
1-a-day heart polypill to be tested in new international trial
A new international trial is testing a 1-a-day combined 'polypill' to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. The Red Heart Pill contains low-dose aspirin, statins, and blood pressure-lowering medicines, potentially saving millions of lives across the world by making cardiovascular drugs more accessible to low-income countries.
Pesticide exposure may contribute to ADHD
A recent study published in Pediatrics found a connection between exposure to organophosphate pesticides and symptoms of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children. The research, which focused on 1,139 children from the general U.S. population, measured pesticide levels in their urine and found that exposure to common ...
PET scanning probes reveal different cell function within the immune system
Researchers at UCLA developed two PET scanning probes that target different cells in the immune system with high specificity. The probes work better when used together, revealing the extent and cellular composition of an immune response and its effects on various diseases, including cancer and auto-immune disorders.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 17, 2010
Surgical options for female incontinence found to be effective but with different complications
Two surgical techniques for female stress incontinence were found to be equivalent in efficacy but differed in side effects. The retropubic procedure had a higher rate of urinary dysfunction requiring surgery compared to the transobturator procedure. These findings will help guide care for women undergoing stress-incontinence surgery.
Eating processed meats, but not unprocessed red meats, may raise risk of heart disease and diabetes
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that consuming processed meat, such as bacon or sausages, increases the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes by 42% and 19%, respectively. In contrast, unprocessed red meat is not associated with these health risks.
Did the end of smallpox vaccination cause the explosive spread of HIV?
Researchers found that vaccinia immunization reduces HIV replication, suggesting it could provide protection against subsequent infection. The decline of smallpox vaccination in the mid-20th century may have led to a loss of this protection, contributing to HIV's rapid contemporary spread.
Carnegie Mellon silicon researchers collaborate with industry
Researchers Jane Siegel and Jeff Perdue are leading an initiative to develop business-centric measures of cloud computing benefits and risks. The goal is to provide chief information officers with a standardized method for comparing internal and external providers.
20th-century warming in Lake Tanganyika is unprecedented
The lake's surface waters have warmed by 3 degrees F since 1900, driving a decline in productivity and impacting the fishery. The research provides a detailed record of temperature and its impacts on a tropical African ecosystem.
Google Flu Trends estimates off
A study by the University of Washington found that Google Flu Trends is less accurate in estimating laboratory-confirmed influenza cases compared to CDC surveillance. The analysis revealed a 25% error margin during the 2003-04 flu season, with greatest deviations occurring during periods of high media attention or unexpected activity.
Additional Annals of Internal Medicine article for May 18, 2010, issue
A new article proposes a three-pronged strategy to address conflicts of interest in clinical guideline development, emphasizing intellectual and financial conflicts equally. The approach aims to balance expert insights with the avoidance of inappropriate influence from experts with financial or intellectual conflicts.
Climate threatens trout and salmon
A study by Cardiff University found that climate change is putting trout and salmon at risk due to warmer water and lower river levels. The research, published in Global Change Biology, suggests that both species face major problems if climate warming continues.
Risk of death in general population independently predicted by both low kidney filtration rate and high albumin: creatinine ratio
A meta-analysis of over 1 million people found that both low kidney filtration rate (GFR) and high albumin: creatinine ratio independently predict mortality risk in the general population. Low GFRs were associated with increased risks, with those below 60 mL/min/1•73 m² experiencing a 57% increased risk of death.
Fish facing reflections become feisty but fearful
Researchers found that male African cichlid fish exhibit a fear response when fighting their own reflections, characterized by increased activity in the amygdala region of the brain. This discovery suggests that fish may have more complex cognitive abilities than previously thought.
Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research receives project funding from Gates Foundation
The Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research has received a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to develop nanoparticles that release vaccine active ingredients through skin perspiration, potentially bypassing traditional vaccines. The project aims to stimulate mucosal immune responses and prevent infectious diseases.
Stripes offer clues to superconductivity
New images reveal electrons flowing primarily along crystal grain boundaries, providing clues to the origin of superconductivity in pnictides. The discovery may help physicists develop better high-temperature superconductors that could save energy and enable innovative applications.
New 'Tree of Life' established for one of the largest groups of bacteria
Researchers at Virginia Tech have constructed a powerful phylogenetic tree for the gamma-proteobacteria using hundreds of genes and integrating more information than traditional single-gene approaches. The consensus tree provides a tool for predicting shared biology and analyzing bacterial adaptations to their environments.
Gregory Downey, M.D., of National Jewish Health, honored for scientific accomplishments
Dr. Gregory Downey received the Recognition Award for Scientific Accomplishments for his outstanding contributions to respiratory disease research. He has published over 190 papers and is a leading expert in innate immunity, lung injury, and repair.
New study characterizes cognitive and anatomic differences in Alzheimer's disease gene carriers
A comprehensive study identifies significant cognitive and anatomic differences in Alzheimer's disease patients with and without the APOE ε4 gene, affecting memory, attention, language, and executive function. The findings have important implications for early diagnosis, treatment, and personalized medicine approaches.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 17, 2010
ICU infection rates not a good measure of mortality risk
Researchers found that ICU-acquired infection rates do not correlate with death rates for at-risk patients, despite being used as a measure of quality in hospital report cards. Hospitals with high infection rates had similar survival rates to those with low infection rates, highlighting the limitations of using these rates as a metric.
Scientists identify mechanism T cells use to block HIV
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have found a new mechanism by which CD8+ T cells control HIV. The discovery highlights the antiviral activity of prothymosin-alpha, a tiny protein that stimulates interferon production to block viral replication.
SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 17, 2010
Hebrew SeniorLife Institute for Aging Research study links altered blood flow in the brain
A new study by the Hebrew SeniorLife Institute for Aging Research has found a link between altered blood flow in the brain and slow gait and falls in elderly people. Seniors with abnormal blood flow changes were more likely to experience falls, highlighting the importance of exercise and treatment for high blood pressure in preventing ...
SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalNeurology·DateMay 17, 2010
Like parent, like child: Good oral health starts at home
Providing oral health education to mothers and families is essential for teaching children healthy habits and preventing early childhood tooth decay. A general dentist can provide families with oral health literature designed to educate both the parent and child, promoting a positive self-image and improving their quality of life.
Caltech researchers find schooling fish offer new ideas for wind farming
Researchers at Caltech have found a way to improve the efficiency of wind farms by using vertical-axis turbines in strategic arrays. By studying the vortices left behind by schools of fish, they discovered that alternating turbine rotations and staggering their placement can increase energy extraction up to 10 times.
Software tool helps tap into the power of graphics processing
Researchers from North Carolina State University developed a software tool that translates traditional computer programs for efficient use on graphics processing units (GPUs), significantly boosting computing performance. The tool, called a compiler, can increase program execution speed by up to 30% compared to manual GPU optimization.
Australian researchers identify a new disease
Researchers have identified a previously undiagnosed condition and treated it with a stem cell transplant, saving the patient's life. The key to unlocking the reason for the patient's symptoms was contracting a rare version of glandular fever.
Pistachios: A handful a day may keep the cardiologist away
A study of 600 subjects found that consuming 67 grams of nuts per day significantly lowered total and LDL-cholesterol levels, as well as triglycerides. Pistachios' unique nutrient profile provides significant heart health benefits.
High-fat ketogenic diet effectively treats persistent childhood seizures
A Johns Hopkins study found that nearly 40% of children with infantile spasms became seizure-free after being on the high-fat ketogenic diet for at least six months. The diet, which is rich in fat and low in carbohydrates, works by triggering biochemical changes that eliminate seizure-causing short circuits in the brain.
Traditional aerobic fitness training trumps pedometer-based walking programs for health benefits
Researchers found that traditional aerobic fitness training improved systolic blood pressure, rating of perceived exertion, and peak VO2 levels compared to pedometer-based walking programs. Participants in the supervised fitness program also showed greater adherence rates.
SourceUniversity of Alberta - Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation·JournalJournal of Physical Activity and Health·DateMay 17, 2010
UC design innovation: Healing for hospital signs that don't work
The University of Cincinnati's School of Design contributed 22 new signage symbols to the 'Signs that Work' project, which aims to create a universal system for hospital signage. The new symbols will be integrated into a total of 50 symbols and tested at four national hospital sites.
The cost of medicalizing human conditions
A recent study by Brandeis researchers found that medicalizing human problems has led to substantial economic costs, with $77.1 billion spent on conditions like menopause and ADHD in 2005.
The role of nurses in physician-assisted dying
A study found that nurses in Belgium frequently act outside of the law by administering life-ending drugs without a patient's explicit request. In euthanasia cases, 48% of nurses helped prepare drugs and 56% were present during administration, mostly without physician co-administration.
SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 17, 2010
Combination therapy targets stubborn leukemia stem cells
Researchers discover a combination of drugs that effectively target stubborn leukemia stem cells, which often escape standard treatment and lead to disease relapse. The study supports clinical trials of HDACi in combination with tyrosine kinase inhibitors to eliminate leukemia stem cells in patients with CML.
Researchers discover gene network associated with vitamin A deficiency and lung birth defects
A gene network controlling lung development has been identified as responsible for the failure of lungs to form due to vitamin A/retinoic acid deficiency. This network, which balances two opposing pathways, can be corrected, potentially preventing lung defects in animals.
SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 17, 2010
Lung disease may be genetic, despite lack of family history
Researchers found that genetic mutations affecting cilia function may predispose older individuals to pulmonary diseases. A simple nitric oxide testing can identify patients at risk of abnormal ciliary function.
Varicose vein study shows radiofrequency ablation causes less post-operative pain
A study comparing radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) for varicose veins found that RFA caused less post-operative pain. Both groups showed similar improvements in clinical and quality of life scores at six weeks after surgery.
American Cancer Society awards 152 new research and training grants
The American Cancer Society has awarded $50.7 million in new national research and training grants to 93 institutions across the US, with a focus on early career researchers and innovative ideas addressing various types of cancer, including prostate, endometrial, and liver cancers.
The psychology of food cravings
Food cravings are intense, specific desires to eat certain foods, which can pose serious health risks. Research suggests that mental imagery is a key component of food cravings, taking up brain power and making it hard to focus on other tasks.
SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateMay 17, 2010
AIBS recognizes 2010 awardees during Washington, D.C., event
The American Institute of Biological Sciences recognizes scientists, educators, and organizations for their leadership and contributions to science. The LTER Network receives the Distinguished Scientist Award, while Duke University Professor Kathleen K. Smith receives the Outstanding Service Award for her work at NESCent.
Noninvasively seeing a clear picture of immune cell function in vivo
Researchers used PET probes to monitor immune cell function in mice with a retrovirus-induced sarcoma. The study found that two different PET probes detect distinct immune cell populations, primarily innate immune cells and active CD8+ T cells.
Falling in old age linked to altered blood flow in brain
A new study found that altered brain blood flow due to high blood pressure may lead to an increased risk of falls in elderly people. The research, published in Neurology, suggests that daily exercise and treatments for high blood pressure could be a new strategy for preventing falls.
UTIs becoming harder to treat
Researchers discovered an identical gene for antibiotic resistance in human and animal samples, suggesting its transfer between bacteria species. This finding poses a risk to the treatment of common human infections like UTIs, which are increasingly difficult to treat due to rising antibiotic resistance.
Flower organ's cells make random decisions that determine size
A team of scientists led by Caltech biologists found that cell-cycle length and chromosome duplication without division play key roles in determining sepal cell sizes in Arabidopsis thaliana. This probabilistic development process results in unique patterns and proportions among sepals.
Invasive kudzu is major factor in surface ozone pollution, study shows
Kudzu's chemical reaction contributes to surface ozone pollution, causing 50% more unhealthy ozone days. The invasive vine's production of isoprene and nitric oxide exacerbates air quality issues.
SourceUniversity of Virginia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 17, 2010
Protein power for Jack and the beanstalk
Researchers have isolated the ICR1 protein, which influences auxin distribution in plants, allowing breeders to manipulate plant cell wall composition and increase yields for biofuel production. This breakthrough has the potential to make fuel production more cost-effective by reducing lignin content and increasing cellulose levels.
Prehistoric fish extinction paved the way for modern vertebrates
A mass extinction of fish 360 million years ago led to the demise of dominant species and created a new world. The Hangenberg event marked a critical shift in vertebrate diversity, with few surviving species giving rise to modern vertebrates, including humans.
SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 17, 2010
Wrinkles are scarier than skin cancer for young tanners
Researchers found warning young women about the effects on their appearance caused a 35% drop in indoor tanning visits. The study suggested that focusing on appearance is more effective than just skin cancer warnings, and offering alternative options can help individuals change their behavior.
Health insurance status linked to mortality risk in PA ICUs
Adult patients without health insurance admitted to ICUs in Pennsylvania hospitals face a 21 percent increased risk of death compared to similar patients with private insurance. Uninsured ICU patients were also less likely to receive certain critical care procedures, including placement of central venous catheters and tracheostomies.
LungPoint system results presented at American Thoracic Society 2010 International Conference
The LungPoint System enables accurate and efficient biopsy procedures for diagnosing and treating lung cancer by providing pre-procedure mapping and visual guidance during bronchoscopy. This technology allows physicians to plan their path ahead of time, reducing the need for invasive procedures.
Retinoid use not associated with fracture risk
A large population-based study found that individuals treated with vitamin A analogues do not have an increased risk of fractures. The research, published in Archives of Dermatology, analyzed data from two nationwide registers and found no association between retinoid use and fracture risk at any skeletal site.
Physicists' findings about helium could lead to more accurate temperature
Physicists have made significant progress in understanding the properties of helium, a key element used in lasers, nuclear reactors, and space exploration. The new findings may enable more accurate measurements of temperature and pressure, benefiting fields such as low-temperature condensed matter physics and metrology.
Newborn infants learn while asleep; study may lead to later disability tests
Researchers discovered that newborns can learn and respond to tones while asleep, a finding that could lead to early identification of infants at risk for developmental disorders such as autism and dyslexia. The study used EEG recordings to measure brain waves and found that 24 of 26 babies showed neural activity during sleep.
'Fountain of youth' steroids could protect against heart disease
A previously-unknown ion channel in human blood vessels has been identified as a natural defence mechanism against heart disease. Pregnenolone sulphate, a 'fountain of youth' steroid, can trigger this protective effect in diseased and healthy blood vessels alike.
Unprecedented warming in East Africa's Lake Tanganyika
The lake's surface waters have reached the warmest temperature on record, affecting fish productivity and ecosystem. Climate change models predict further warming, exacerbating the decline of fish stocks and impacting the region's food security.
The protein GRP78 opens the door to life-threatening fungal infection
Researchers identified GRP78 as a key protein facilitating fungal invasion of blood vessels in diabetes-related infections. Mice treated with GRP78-specific immune serum showed protection from mucormycosis.
Challenging the use of routine repeated chest X-rays in certain patients
Children requiring home mechanical ventilation often receive frequent chest x-rays, but research suggests these may not be necessary to change treatment plans. Researchers analyzed records of 28 patients and found that two-thirds of repeat x-rays did not prompt changes within 24 hours.
June 2010 Geology and GSA Today highlights
Scientists have found evidence of neotectonic activity in the Alps using speleothems, a type of cave formation. The study also presents new constraints for dating shallow faults at the AlpTransit tunnel site in Switzerland.
Well-tolerated radiotherapy provides longer life to patients with recurrent brain cancer
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University found that hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy significantly improves survival rates for patients with recurrent brain cancers, while minimizing side effects. The treatment provides longer survival without experiencing common chemotherapy and targeted therapy side effects.
AAPS announces 2010 NBC award winners
The American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS) honored outstanding researchers with awards for their contributions to biotechnology. The Excellence in Ligand-Binding Assay Award and Innovation in Biotechnology Awards recognized achievements in fields such as drug detection, vaccine development, and cancer treatment.
Extinct giant shark nursery discovered in Panama
Researchers found fossil teeth of Carcharocles megalodon, the world's largest shark species, in an ancient nursery in Panama. The teeth suggest young sharks spent their early years near the coast among mangroves.
Good oral health is essential during pregnancy
Good oral health during pregnancy combats adverse effects of oral disease, preventing pain, infections, and nutrient deficiencies. Regular dental treatment can be safely performed at any time during pregnancy.
Using a pest's chemical signals to control it
ARS scientists have developed a biocontrol agent that uses neuropeptide mimics to kill aphids, potentially reducing pesticide use and environmental harm. The treatment was found to be highly effective in killing 90-100% of aphids within three days, comparable to insecticides on the market.
SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalPeptides·DateMay 17, 2010
Sleep apnea may increase insulin resistance
Research reveals that intermittent hypoxia associated with sleep apnea can cause distinct drops in insulin sensitivity in mice. This finding suggests that sleep apnea may increase the risk of developing metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes.
Are invasives bad? Not always, say Brown researchers
The Asian shore crab has found a hospitable niche in its new environment, coexisting with native species in the cobbled beach ecosystem. The cordgrass-ribbed mussel environment provides a stable habitat for the crabs, allowing them to thrive without crowding out native species.
Art of Science 2010 online gallery launches
The Art of Science 2010 exhibition features breathtaking images created by Princeton researchers, exploring the beauty in scientific inquiry. The competition attracted top talent, with cash prizes awarded to first, second, and third place winners for their visually stunning entries.
Cochlear implants slightly less beneficial in older patients
A study found cochlear implants slightly benefit older adults, but not as much as younger patients. The results suggest that older patients may experience a prolonged adaptation phase and have inherent limitations in processing high-rate stimulation paradigms.
Family status and gender associated with career planning among surgical residents
A national survey of surgical residents found that those who are single or do not have children are more likely to pursue specialty fellowships. The study also highlights the growing trend of specialization among surgery residents, which may impact the future of general surgery.
Kids understand the relationship between humans and other animals
A new study challenges the long-held assumption that children adopt an anthropocentric perspective on human-animal relationships from birth. Instead, research suggests that human-centered reasoning emerges around age 3 in urban children, reflecting their community's perspectives.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 17, 2010
Plant protection research targets cacao in developing countries
Researchers are developing methods to protect cacao crops from devastating plant pathogens, targeting two mechanisms critical for pathogen attack. The project aims to improve crop resilience and provide nutrition and income options for smallholder farmers in developing countries.
World's biggest study on cell phones and brain cancer inconclusive
The Interphone International Study Group found no increase in brain cancer among users, but heavy users appeared at a higher risk. The study's inconclusive results were attributed to restricted access to participants and flawed ethics reviews.
Neuromuscular electrical stimulation reduces muscle atrophy in COPD
Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) may reduce muscle atrophy in patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). NMES improved quadriceps and calf muscle mass, increasing the anabolism to catabolism ratio in muscle proteins.
Argonne scientists reveal secret of nanoparticle crystallization in real time
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory discovered that nanoparticles can self-assemble into a crystal lattice with low defects when floating at a liquid-air interface. This process allows for two-dimensional crystallization over a longer time scale, enabling the formation of highly ordered phases.
Stem cells restore tissue affected by ALI
Researchers used clinical-grade human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) to treat ALI, restoring normal function of alveolar epithelial cells and reducing inflammatory cytokines. The study found that intravenous delivery of hMSCs was as effective as intrabronchial administration in repairing damaged lung tissue.
Most patients survive common thyroid cancer regardless of treatment
A recent study found that most patients with localized papillary thyroid cancer can expect favorable outcomes without treatment. The 20-year survival rate for these patients is estimated to be around 97%, similar to those who received treatment. Clinicians and patients can feel comfortable considering observation as an option.
JCI online early table of contents: May 17, 2010
Researchers identify GRP78 as key factor in mucormycosis pathogenesis, providing new avenue for therapeutics development. PET probes detect distinct immune cell populations, suggesting wider use for immune modulating therapies.
Kidney function and damage markers predict mortality risk
A new study published in The Lancet found that common blood tests for kidney function and urine protein levels can predict mortality risk. People with high levels of albumin in their urine were at a higher risk of mortality, with an increased risk of nearly 50% at certain thresholds.
Focusing on appearance may reduce tanning in young women
A study found that focusing on the negative effects of indoor tanning on appearance can reduce tanning behavior in young women, even those motivated by health concerns. The appearance-focused booklet also showed promise in reducing tanning behaviors among those with pathological motives for tanning.
Minimally invasive sinus surgery becoming more common in medicare population
Endoscopic sinus surgery rates increased by 20% among Medicare beneficiaries from 1998 to 2006, while open sinus surgery rates declined 40%. This trend suggests a shift towards minimally invasive procedures for managing chronic rhinosinusitis in the elderly population.
NASA, Google data show North Korea logging in protected area
A Purdue University researcher used NASA satellite data and Google Earth to detect changes in North Korea's Mount Paekdu Biosphere Reserve, finding that up to 75% of the forest had been removed through extensive logging. This has raised concerns over biodiversity loss and habitat destruction in the region.
3 new monitor lizards from the Philippines identified
The discovery of three new Philippine monitor lizard species and a new subspecies sheds light on the immense biodiversity of these giant reptiles in the region. The study highlights the importance of museum collections and the need for continued research to recognize and name all species, emphasizing the global taxonomy crisis.
Euthanasia and the use of end-of-life drugs without explicit request
A Belgian-Dutch study found that the use of life-ending drugs without explicit patient request occurred in 1.8% of deaths in Flemish Belgium. The majority of these cases involved elderly patients or those in irreversible comas, with discussion with families and healthcare professionals often present.
SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 17, 2010
Push to understand basis of childhood brain tumors leads to a new treatment target
A study led by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital identified a cancer gene unusually active in some childhood brain tumors, providing a new treatment target for high-grade gliomas (HGGs). The research found significant differences between genetic defects in children and adults with HGG.
When plants attract bugs, it may be their own fault
A recent study at the University of Illinois found that some impatiens plant varieties are more attractive to Western flower thrips than others. The researchers discovered that the Dazzler White variety emits volatile compounds that attract thrips, while the Cajun Carmine variety does not.
SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateMay 17, 2010