Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for September 13, 2011


Using lasers to vaporize tissue at multiple points simultaneously

Using a single UV laser pulse, researchers can now zap away biological tissue at multiple points simultaneously. This technique allows scientists to isolate specific cells and observe their shape dictated solely by internal forces. The method has potential applications in developmental biology and bioengineering.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateSep 13, 2011

Plant compound reduces breast cancer mortality

Researchers at Helmholtz Association find that phytoestrogens, particularly lignans and their metabolite enterolactone, may help reduce breast cancer mortality. Enterolactone levels are linked to clinical disease progression and mortality risk, with higher levels associated with lower risk.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateSep 13, 2011

Does race dictate quality of care?

A study published in Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research found that African American patients are less likely to be admitted to high-volume hospitals for total knee replacement surgery, receiving instead lower-quality care. This racial disparity affects access to high-quality arthroplasty care.

SourceSpringer·JournalClinical Orthopaedics and Related Research·DateSep 13, 2011

Science finding is music to the ears

A study of 74 musicians and 89 non-musicians found that being a musician can delay age-related decline in central auditory processing, allowing older musicians to understand speech in noisy environments as well as younger non-musicians. This advantage was particularly pronounced for older musicians.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateSep 13, 2011

NASA awards $100,000 for space exploration power systems

NASA has awarded a $100,000 grant to Penn State researcher Michael V. Paul for developing non-radioisotope power systems. The project aims to explore sunless solar system missions using metal-combustion engines, which could enable low-cost planetary exploration without relying on radioisotope power sources.

Bats adjust their 'field-of-view'

Egyptian fruit bats exhibit sophisticated spatial orientation using echolocation, adjusting their 'field-of-view' by altering sonar beam width and intensity in response to environmental complexity. This adaptability enables them to track targets and avoid collisions in dense environments.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 13, 2011

Primary schoolchildren can be great tutors

A trial of peer tutoring in Scotland's primary schools found that children as young as seven to eight years old can benefit from a twenty-minute weekly session. The boost to school pupils' attainment provided by peer tutoring was equivalent to about three months progress in both maths and reading.

SourceDurham University·JournalSchool Effectiveness and School Improvement·DateSep 13, 2011

A 3-D reconstructed image of neural dendritic trees using the advanced electron microscope technology

The study reveals that neurons normalize receiving signals by adjusting their morphological characteristics, making it easier to receive farther signals. The research team's 3D image reconstruction of minute dendritic tree morphology demonstrates the size and distance of dendritic trees determine signal clarity and strength.

SourceNational Institute for Physiological Sciences·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 13, 2011

Breaching the blood-brain barrier

Researchers found that adenosine can modulate the entry of large molecules into the brain, establishing a gateway into the blood-brain barrier. They successfully transported large dextrans and antibodies into the brain using an FDA-approved drug, Lexiscan.

More evidence that spicing up broccoli boosts its cancer-fighting power

A new study from the University of Illinois found that pairing broccoli with spicy foods containing myrosinase significantly enhances its individual cancer-fighting power. This is achieved by ensuring absorption takes place in the upper digestive system, where sulforaphane can be quickly and effectively released.

Alley to receive Heinz award

Richard Alley, a leading climate researcher, is recognized for his groundbreaking work on abrupt climate change. His discovery that the last Ice Age ended in just three years has debunked the myth of slow climate change and highlights the need for urgent action.

Informed consent processes need local adaptation

Researchers from KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Programme in Kenya modified informed consent processes to consider local social, cultural, and economic contexts. Locally adapted communication processes strengthened informed consent, particularly in international research.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 13, 2011

Pituitary hormone TSH found to directly influence bone growth

A new study from Mount Sinai School of Medicine reveals that thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) directly influences bone growth, contrary to its usual thyroid functions. The findings suggest TSH may be a novel method for addressing bone production and could lead to innovative treatments for osteoporosis.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 13, 2011

Rebooting psychotherapy

Several prominent scientists respond to a call for rethinking the current approach to mental health care, highlighting innovative programs like those developed by the US Department of Veterans Affairs. The authors emphasize the need to reduce the burden of mental illness in the United States through improved treatment and accessibility.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPerspectives on Psychological Science·DateSep 13, 2011

New imaging technique evaluates nerve damage

A new imaging technique allows researchers to assess nerve damage and healing in live patients, providing a non-invasive method for diagnosing nerve injuries. The technique uses lasers to create images of individual neurons' insulating sheaths, revealing the extent of myelin loss and recovery.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateSep 13, 2011

Evaluating doctoral programs in African universities

A new evidence-based tool has been developed to evaluate doctoral programs in African universities, incorporating perspectives from students, staff, and policy makers. The tool aims to strengthen capacity and justify external funding inputs, benefiting universities across different countries.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 13, 2011