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Science News Archive August 2011 - Page 9


Page 9 of 27

A new nuance to neurons

Scientists at UCSF have discovered two distinct pools of vesicles in neurons, each with unique proteins that determine their behavior. The finding sheds new light on neurotransmitter packaging, transport, and release from neurons, potentially leading to breakthroughs in treating neurological diseases like Parkinson's.

Nickel nanoparticles may contribute to lung cancer

New research from Brown University finds that nickel nanoparticles can activate a cellular pathway that contributes to cancer in human lung cells. The study shows that smaller nanoscale particles are more harmful and potentially cancer-causing than larger microscale particles.

SourceBrown University·JournalToxicological Sciences·DateAug 23, 2011

Should films with smoking have adult ratings?

Two articles argue that film rating recommendations can create an economic incentive for producers to avoid tobacco imagery in youth-rated films. In contrast, other experts disagree, citing concerns about censorship, confounding factors, and the effectiveness of adult classification, suggesting alternative approaches to address public ...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 23, 2011

UK study shows ambulatory blood pressure measurements to be the most cost-effective way for diagnosing hypertension

A UK study published in The Lancet concludes that ambulatory blood pressure monitoring is the most cost-effective way to diagnose hypertension. This method, which involves repeated measurements throughout a 24-hour period, is more accurate and correlates better with cardiovascular outcomes than traditional clinic-based methods.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 23, 2011

Sexist men and women -- made for each other

A new study by Jeffrey Hall and Melanie Canterberry suggests that women with negative attitudes towards their own gender are more likely to prefer men who adopt similar attitudes. Women who open to casual sex also tend to respond to aggressive courtship strategies.

SourceSpringer·JournalSex Roles·DateAug 23, 2011

Maintaining exercise when the cardiac rehab is complete

Researchers found that telephone counseling supporting exercise significantly increased patient adherence to an exercise program. The study, published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, showed that patients who received maintenance counseling exercises for at least 32 minutes more per week than those in the control group o...

SourceLifespan·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateAug 23, 2011

Brain tumors found to have a 2-tier system

Researchers have classified brain tumors into two distinct subgroups based on genetic analysis, revealing that one subgroup has a favorable prognosis while the other is more aggressive. The study provides valuable insights for better treatment options and could lead to targeted therapies for patients with ependymoma.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalCancer Cell·DateAug 23, 2011

2-year-old children understand complex grammar

Researchers found that 2-year-olds can identify correct images with complex verb sentences, suggesting infants know more about language structure than they can articulate. This study reveals the beginnings of grammar acquisition start earlier than previously thought and demonstrate children use grammar to understand new words.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalCognitive Science·DateAug 23, 2011

Saffron shows promise in preventing liver cancer

Researchers found that saffron significantly reduced the number and incidence of liver nodules, with complete inhibition observed at the highest dose. Saffron also inhibited the elevation of proteins indicating liver damage and blocked inflammation.

SourceWiley·JournalHepatology·DateAug 22, 2011

Researchers find increase in infection rates in patients with cardiac electrophysiological devices

Researchers found a significant increase in CIED-related infections, with a 210% rise over 16 years. Comorbidities such as renal failure and diabetes may contribute to the higher infection risk. The study highlights the need for better understanding of infection risk factors and mitigation therapies.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 22, 2011

Etch-a-sketch with superconductors

Scientists at University College London and Sapienza University of Rome have developed a method to manipulate high-temperature superconductivity in materials. By illuminating with X-rays, researchers can create and control tiny superconducting structures, enabling the creation of new electronic devices.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 22, 2011

Good ruminations or bad ruminations in the depressed brain?

Research reveals that depression-related rumination is associated with a brain network imbalance, where the default mode network (DMN) dominates over the task-positive network (TPN). This imbalance leads to maladaptive thinking and less effective coping mechanisms, exacerbating depressive symptoms.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateAug 22, 2011

Scale models

Scientists Profs. Naama Barkai and Ben-Zion Shilo have developed a theoretical model explaining how scaling works in developing fruit fly wings, where the vein structure stays proportioned. Their findings suggest that this mechanism can be applied to various examples of development, including human embryonic development.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 22, 2011