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Science News for January 4, 2011


Epic journeys of turtles revealed

Scientists have identified three distinct migration routes taken by female leatherback turtles from Gabon to feeding grounds across the South Atlantic, with one route spanning over 7,500km. This research is crucial for informing conservation efforts and protecting these endangered creatures.

Dampening inflammation with aspirin

Researchers at Harvard Medical School identified a new aspirin-derived molecule that reduces levels of pro-inflammatory molecules and cells in mice. This finding suggests that the molecule could contribute to the beneficial effects of aspirin.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 4, 2011

Pregnant, constipated and bloated? Fly poo may tell you why

Researchers used fruit flies to investigate the function of intestinal neurons, finding that they regulate appetite and adjust water balance during reproduction. Intestinal changes triggered by reproductive hormones may provide a benefit in terms of nutrient absorption but could come at a cost: shorter lifespan.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJan 4, 2011

Clinical decision support systems help control inappropriate medical imaging, study suggests

A study found that clinical decision support systems can lower imaging utilization rates for low back pain lumbar MRI, headache head MRI, and sinusitis sinus CT. These systems provide real-time feedback to providers, aiding in the elimination of unnecessary imaging and increasing patient safety and quality.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateJan 4, 2011

Neuronal migration errors: Right cells, wrong place

A study published in Biological Psychiatry found that people with schizophrenia have abnormalities in inhibitory neurons within the cortex and increases in neurons in white matter below the cortex. The researchers suggest that inhibitory neurons may be 'stuck' at a stage of development due to genetic and environmental factors.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateJan 4, 2011

A new model to predict accurate outcomes for IVF

A new IVF prediction model developed by Scott Nelson and Debbie Lawlor uses data from 144,018 IVF cycles to provide a more accurate assessment of likely outcomes. The model identifies factors such as maternal age, duration of infertility, and oocyte use that affect the chances of successful treatment.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJan 4, 2011

US does not have infrastructure to consume more ethanol

A Purdue University study finds the US is at a 'blending wall' for ethanol use, with insufficient infrastructure to increase production beyond current levels. Advances in next-generation biofuels, such as thermo-chemical biofuels, may provide a solution to meet federal renewable fuel standards.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAmerican Journal of Agricultural Economics·DateJan 4, 2011

Scientists discover that a specific enzyme inhibitor may help control lung inflammation

Researchers discovered a specific enzyme inhibitor, delta-protein kinase C, that can help control lung inflammation by protecting the lungs from neutrophil-mediated damage. This could lead to new therapeutic targets for treating acute respiratory distress syndrome and reducing morbidity and mortality associated with sepsis and trauma.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateJan 4, 2011

Wake up and smell the willow

The study found that torrefying plant matter can transform it into a dry, energy-rich fuel that is cheaper and easier to transport. This process could potentially replace coal in power stations and provide a secure energy supply for the future while being sustainable on all levels.

Detecting esophageal cancer with light

Researchers developed a device using angle-resolved low coherence interferometry to detect pre-cancerous cells in the esophagus lining. The technology holds promise for earlier detection and targeted biopsies, potentially improving treatment outcomes for esophageal cancer.

SourceDuke University·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateJan 4, 2011

JCI online early table of contents: Jan. 4, 2011

Researchers discovered a defect in hair follicle stem cells conversion to progenitor cells in AGA. Aspirin-derived resolvins reduced pro-inflammatory molecules and cells in a mouse model of inflammation. A new approach to vaccine design against systemic fungal infections requires inducing Th17 cells.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 4, 2011

Vaccine blocks cocaine high in mice

Researchers have developed a lasting anti-cocaine immunity in mice using a safe vaccine combining bits of the common cold virus with a particle mimicking cocaine. The vaccine elicits an immune response that prevents cocaine molecules from reaching the brain, reducing hyperactivity.

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateJan 4, 2011

Europe reins in the smoking habit

A study by the Smoking Control Unit of the Catalan Institute of Oncology confirms that Europe's anti-tobacco laws have a direct effect on reducing tobacco consumption and passive smoke exposure. The European Union countries with stricter controls on smoking show lower consumption rates, particularly in the UK, Ireland, Malta, and Sweden.

Watch out for that boom

A recent study from Rhode Island Hospital found that sailing injuries on America's Cup boats are often caused by trips, falls, and collisions with fellow crew members. The majority of severe injuries were to the head, knee, leg, and arm, with heavy weather being a contributing factor in 36% of cases.

SourceLifespan·JournalWilderness and Environmental Medicine·DateJan 4, 2011

Going bald without hair follicle progenitors

A study by George Cotsarelis at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that balding men retain hair follicle stem cells but lack CD200-rich and CD34-positive progenitor cells. This defect is linked to a transition problem for stem cells, providing potential new therapeutic targets for AGA treatment.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 4, 2011

Fueling the body on fat

A new report reveals a key mechanism linking cellular energy state with whole-body energy state, optimizing fat absorption. Researchers found that the AMPK-SRC-2 pathway plays a crucial role in regulating fat uptake and storage.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJan 4, 2011