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Science News Archive November 2010 - Page 11


Page 11 of 27

Using plants against soils contaminated with arsenic

Researchers have identified two essential genes that control the accumulation and detoxification of arsenic in plant cells, providing a promising basis for reducing arsenic levels in crops from polluted regions. By controlling these genes, plants can be developed to prevent toxic metal transfer, limiting entry into the food chain.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 16, 2010

Phone-in doctoring fails to improve patient outcomes

A telephone call-in program designed to improve doctor-patient communication for heart failure patients failed to show improved patient outcomes, according to a Yale University study. The six-month study tested a telemonitoring system that allowed patients to send daily information about their condition to their doctor.

SourceYale University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 16, 2010

Tuesday news tips, Nov. 16, 2010

Researchers discovered reusing explanted ICDs with sterilized batteries is safe for patients. Shorter sleep duration linked to carotid artery thickening in men, while rapid body cooling improves heart function after CPR. Intravenous iron treatment boosts quality of life and kidney function in some chronic heart failure patients.

Structure of a protein related to heart and nervous system health revealed

Scientists have solved the structure of a protein integral to maintaining healthy hearts and nervous systems. The discovery of cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS) may lead to smarter drug design for better understanding of homocystinuria, a genetic disorder affecting cardiovascular and central nervous systems.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 16, 2010

Sticky snack for elephant-shrews

A new study reveals that elephant-shrews consume the nectar of Pagoda lily flowers and pollinate them. The animals' long noses and tongues allow them to access the nectar without damaging the flowers. This discovery sheds light on the unusual group of non-flying mammals known for their pollination abilities.

SourceSpringer·JournalZeitschrift für Didaktik der Naturwissenschaften·DateNov 16, 2010

Increased age of sexual consent in Canada may not protect teens at greatest risk: UBC study

A new UBC study analyzing British Columbia population-based data suggests that children under 13 are the most likely to report first sex with adults over 20 years older. The research challenges Canada's increased age of consent from 14 to 16 years, recommending additional strategies to safeguard vulnerable children and teens.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalThe Canadian Journal of Human Sexuality·DateNov 16, 2010

Orangutans count on stats for survival

A Queensland University of Technology (QUT) statistician has found that villagers who live alongside orangutans are unaware of the laws protecting them, and many admit to killing the primates. The study suggests education campaigns tailored to specific areas and cultural groups can effectively target orangutan hunting.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalSignificance·DateNov 16, 2010