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Science News Archive January 2011 - Page 21


Page 21 of 22

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

Experimental drug more potent, longer lasting than morphine

A new experimental drug, morphine-6-0-sulfate, has been found to be more potent and longer-lasting than standard morphine, with less likelihood of causing constipation. The study, led by Dr. Joseph Holtman Jr., tested the drug on rats and demonstrated its potential clinical advantages compared to morphine.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalEuropean Journal of Pharmacology·DateJan 3, 2011

Large-scale study reveals major decline in bumble bees in the US

A large-scale study has found major declines in US bumble bee populations, with four species experiencing a 96% drop in relative abundance and a 23-87% loss of geographic range. The researchers attributed the decline to low genetic diversity, high infection rates with the parasite pathogen, and climate change.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 3, 2011

Research demonstrates that education programs can increase parent-child interactions

Researchers found that parent education programs delivered through pediatric primary care offices increased verbal interactions between parents and children, leading to improved school readiness. The Video Interaction Project (VIP) and Building Blocks interventions showed significant benefits, including reduced infant television exposure.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJan 3, 2011

Authorities often aware of previous incidents of victimization among children and adolescents

A national survey of over 4,500 children found that nearly half of U.S. youth who experience violence or abuse have at least one incident known to school, police, or medical authorities. The study suggests that authorities are more aware of severe incidents like sexual abuse, but still underestimate many cases.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJan 3, 2011

Risk of breast cancer recurrence may depend on treating surgeon

A study published in Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that breast cancer recurrence rates can vary significantly based on the treating surgeon. The researchers analyzed data from over 1,000 women with ductal carcinoma in situ and discovered that positive or close margins following surgery substantially compromised disease...

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 3, 2011