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Science News Archive May 2010 - Page 16


Page 16 of 26

Of microorganisms and man

A Brandeis biochemist confirms Darwin's theory of universal common ancestry using a large-scale, quantitative test. The study finds that all life forms share a genetic heritage from single-celled microorganisms to humans, supporting UCA millions of times over alternative theories.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalNature·DateMay 12, 2010

Discarded data may be gateway to new brain insights

Researchers found significant patterns in discarded brain wave data, revealing connections between low-frequency and high-frequency brain waves. These connections suggest important aspects of brain architecture and function, potentially shedding light on the brain's organizational structure.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateMay 12, 2010

LSU identifies community conditions related to malnutrition deaths among older adults

A study by LSU researchers found that socioeconomic and physical disadvantages, as well as social isolation, are associated with higher rates of older adult malnutrition death rates across the US. The research highlights the importance of addressing poverty, disability, and limited access to resources in reducing malnutrition-related d...

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalAnnals of Epidemiology·DateMay 12, 2010

Minorities face barriers to effective ADHD treatments, MSU study contends

A new study by Michigan State University researchers highlights the need for culturally competent health-care providers and information dissemination about treatment options. The study found that minorities are less likely to consider combining medication and counseling for their children due to barriers such as financial hurdles and l...

SourceMichigan State University·JournalJournal of Attention Disorders·DateMay 12, 2010

Building a better student discussion

A new method for effective discussions involves a student facilitator who directs the discussion, rather than a leader controlling content. This approach encourages all participants to contribute, promoting equal participation and improving communication skills.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Education·DateMay 12, 2010

Measuring success: Regenstrief helps assess value of investment in health info tech

A new study from the Regenstrief Institute provides a framework for evaluating the costs, effort, and value of health information exchange services. The framework will help track the development and utilization of these services, crucial for understanding their impact on quality of care and patient safety.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateMay 11, 2010

Quantum move toward next generation computing

Physicists at McGill University have developed a cantilever force sensor to measure the energy involved in adding electrons to semi-conductor nanocrystals. This innovation could lead to the development of components replacing silicon chips in computers, increasing speed and reducing size.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 11, 2010

What makes a good school principal?

University of Missouri researcher Jason Grissom is leading a study to determine the qualities and skills necessary for effective school principals. The study, funded by a $1 million grant, aims to gather data from K-12 administrators, teachers, and district officials to examine what makes a principal successful.

Traffic density and increased BMI linked

A University of Alberta study found that people living in neighborhoods with high perceived traffic density were more likely to have a higher Body Mass Index (BMI) than those who didn't. The study also revealed age and socioeconomic status as significant factors, with younger individuals experiencing greater BMI increases.

UT Southwestern researchers find mechanism that may stop E. coli from developing in cattle

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified a genetic sensing mechanism that allows E. coli to form colonies in cattle, and found that interfering with this system can prevent the bacteria from colonizing and reaching humans. This discovery could lead to new strategies for preventing food-borne illnesses.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 11, 2010

Dinosaur research: Chew and stay small

Long-necked dinosaurs were able to grow extremely long necks due to their unique digestive system, which allowed them to chew and digest food more efficiently. This enabled them to browse their surroundings without having to move their large body weight.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalBiological Reviews·DateMay 11, 2010

A safer alternative to laser eye surgery?

A new Cochrane Systematic Review suggests phakic intraocular lenses (IOLs) may be a safer alternative to excimer laser surgery for moderate to high levels of short-sightedness. Patients who underwent IOL treatment reported better spectacle-corrected vision and contrast sensitivity, as well as higher patient satisfaction.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateMay 11, 2010

British Indian children have better mental health

A recent study by London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine found that British Indian children have substantially lower rates of mental health disorders, with only 3.7% affected compared to 10.0% for White children. This advantage was attributed to factors such as two-parent households and higher academic abilities, suggesting a rea...

SourceLondon School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateMay 11, 2010

Stem cells use GPS to generate proper nerve cells

Researchers at Linköping University discovered a new function that regulates stem cell production of different types of cells in various parts of the nervous system. The study found that Hox genes, similar to a GPS system, guide stem cells to produce specific nerve cells in certain regions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 11, 2010

Schizophrenia: Regular exercise guidelines still apply

Exercise programs improved anxiety and depression symptoms in individuals with schizophrenia, while changes in physical health outcomes were not significant. Regular exercise is recommended for those with schizophrenia, just like the general population.

SourceWiley·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·DateMay 11, 2010

Exploring gender differences in colorectal cancer screenings

Researchers found that African American women are more aware of the importance of screening and are more willing to undergo the procedure, while men report barriers such as lack of trust in the healthcare system and fear of the procedure. Despite these differences, both groups recognize the benefits of early detection and prevention.

SourceTemple University·JournalJournal of Cancer Education·DateMay 11, 2010