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Science News for February 22, 2011


Use of nitrates may increase bone strength

A study found that nitroglycerin ointment increased bone mineral density and decreased bone resorption in postmenopausal women. The researchers also observed increases in bone-specific alkaline phosphatase and decreases in urine N-telopeptide, markers of bone formation and resorption.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 22, 2011

MIT engineers design new nanoparticle that could lead to vaccines for HIV, malaria, other diseases

Scientists have designed a new type of nanoparticle that can deliver synthetic versions of proteins normally produced by viruses, eliciting a strong immune response comparable to live virus vaccines. The nanoparticles consist of concentric fatty spheres that can be used to develop vaccines against cancer and infectious diseases.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 22, 2011

Struggling to follow doctor's orders

A Northwestern University study found that over one-third of paid caregivers struggled with reading and understanding health-related information, while 60% made errors when sorting medications. The study aims to develop standardized tests to evaluate caregiver skills and improve senior care.

Blood test may find markers of bladder cancer risk

A blood test can accurately detect biomolecular markers of bladder cancer risk linked to environmental exposures like cigarette smoke and industrial pollutants. The test measures methylation patterns in immune system cells, which are associated with an increased likelihood of disease.

SourceBrown University·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateFeb 22, 2011

Study: For a better workday, smile like you mean it

A study by Michigan State University found that employees who fake smile for customer interactions worsen their mood and withdraw from work. In contrast, those who cultivate positive thoughts improve their mood and withdraw less. The study also showed gender differences, with women being more affected by fake smiling.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateFeb 22, 2011

Study to examine Ohio education innovations

Researchers study Ohio STEM Learning Network's implementation, spread, and sustainability to understand how networks produce gains and apply innovative approaches to education. The study aims to identify effective components of networking needed to establish STEM schools and explore how these innovations are translated locally.

Transitioning to organic farming

Reduced tillage can increase weed populations, particularly perennial species like Canada thistle and bindweed, which are difficult to control. Integrated systems that include on-site or locally sourced manure can improve the economics of organic production.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalAgronomy Journal·DateFeb 22, 2011

'Climategate' undermined belief in global warming among many TV meteorologists, study shows

A George Mason University study reveals that 'Climategate' led to skepticism among US TV meteorologists about global warming, with men and conservatives more likely to doubt its existence. The poll found that nearly all respondents followed the story, but many became skeptical of climate science as a result.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateFeb 22, 2011

E-health must be a priority, researchers say

A study by McGill University Health Centre researchers highlights the need for a comprehensive electronic health record system to improve chronic disease management and timely access to care. The authors suggest that more work is needed to address implementation challenges and ensure successful adoption of e-health technologies.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 22, 2011

Anti-clotting agent does not improve outcomes of patients with severe pneumonia

Researchers found that the use of tifacogin did not improve mortality rates or reduce adverse events in patients with severe community-acquired pneumonia. The study's results suggest that anti-clotting therapies may not be effective in preventing organ failure and improving outcomes for this patient population.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 22, 2011

E-health must align with health care reform

A study in Canadian Medical Association Journal highlights the need for an e-health policy to guide the implementation of health information technologies. The policy should align with major strategic priorities, such as patient safety and chronic disease management, to promote electronic health record adoption and data exchange.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateFeb 22, 2011

Scientists identify new marker for heart disease

A new study by Dr. Todd Anderson at the University of Calgary's Libin Cardiovascular Institute has identified endothelial dysfunction as a predictive marker for coronary heart disease. By detecting this marker in patients, doctors may be able to intervene early to prevent the progression of heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalCirculation·DateFeb 22, 2011

Human umbilical cord blood cells aid diabetic wound healing

Researchers found that transplanted EPCs from human umbilical cord blood significantly accelerated wound closure in diabetic mouse models. The study showed that growth factors and cytokines produced at the wounded skin sites contributed to healing. This experimental study opens the possibility of using endothelial progenitor cells deri...

Stresses of unemployed spouse can hurt job performance of other spouse, says study

A recent study by the University of Colorado Boulder suggests that ignoring an unemployed spouse's job search stress can lead to decreased productivity and strained relationships in the home. The researchers found that couples are better at sharing their burden than alleviating it, leading to a negative impact on both spouses.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournal of Applied Psychology·DateFeb 22, 2011