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Science News Archive October 2010 - Page 20


Page 20 of 25

Ultrasound device improves poor bone healing

Researchers used low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) to treat patients with delayed unions of the tibia, resulting in a 34% increase in bone mineral density. This non-invasive treatment modality shows promise as a viable option for patients suffering from these injuries.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Musculoskeletal Disorders·DateOct 7, 2010

Cheek swab may detect lung cancer

A new clinical study reveals a technique called partial wave spectroscopic microscopy can differentiate individuals with lung cancer from those without, even in lifetime smokers or COPD patients. The findings suggest that this minimally invasive test could lead to personalized screening for lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer deat...

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalCancer Research·DateOct 7, 2010

Stem cells shape up to their surroundings

Research in the Journal of Tissue Engineering reveals that stem cells detect surface features with mechanosensors, which modulate gene expression through biochemical signaling cascades. This understanding opens doors to develop improved clinical prostheses with topographies that directly modulate stem cell fate.

SourceSAGE Publications UK·JournalJournal of Tissue Engineering·DateOct 7, 2010

Stanford-led study disproves link between genetic variant, risk of coronary artery disease

A massive international study found no association between a genetic marker and the risk of coronary artery disease. The study analyzed data from over 17,000 patients with cardiovascular disease and 40,000 others, concluding that carrying a particular variant of the KIF6 gene does not indicate a greater risk for the disease.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateOct 7, 2010

Men perspire, women glow

New research published in Experimental Physiology found that men are more effective sweaters during exercise than women. Women need to get hotter before they start sweating, while men can sweat more efficiently with regular physical training.

SourceWiley·JournalExperimental Physiology·DateOct 7, 2010

Brown University chemists simplify biodiesel conversion

Researchers at Brown University have developed a new method for converting waste vegetable oil into biodiesel fuel, using a single reaction vessel and environmentally friendly catalysts. The process is six times faster than current methods, consuming less energy and reducing the use of toxic chemicals.

SourceBrown University·JournalOrganic & Biomolecular Chemistry·DateOct 7, 2010

Despite highest health spending, Americans' life expectancy falls behind other countries'

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that the US life expectancy has fallen behind other countries despite high health spending. The researchers attribute this failure to flaws in the overall healthcare system, including unregulated fee-for-service payments and reliance on specialty care.

Female fish flaunt fins to attract a mate

In a breakthrough study, researchers found that female cichlid fish develop exceptionally large pelvic fins, differing from male fins in shape and color. Males prefer females with larger pelvic fins, leading to the growth of disproportionately sized fins.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateOct 7, 2010