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Science News Archive 2001 - Page 41


Page 41 of 47

Research team unlocks secrets of the firefly flash

A team of researchers from Tufts University and Brigham and Women's Hospital discovered that nitric oxide plays a key role in controlling the firefly flash. The findings, published in Science, reveal how a temporary cut in mitochondrial power supply triggers the firefly's bioluminescent glow.

SourceTufts University·JournalScience·DateJun 28, 2001

New tool allows early prediction of patient’s stroke outcome

A new tool allows early prediction of patient's stroke outcome by combining magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain scan, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score, and time from symptoms to scan. The study found that patients with small lesion volumes were five times more likely to recover than those with larger volumes.

Side effects of breast cancer treatment offer research direction

A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine reveals that weight gain and chemotherapy-induced ovarian failure are common problems among younger women with early-stage breast cancer. Researchers emphasize the importance of monitoring bone density and taking calcium supplements to mitigate potential long-term side effects.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 27, 2001

Walking proteins need to rock and roll, new study finds

Kinesin proteins use a unique 'head-over-head' mechanism to propel themselves forward, allowing them to transport vital cargo through the cell. Researchers have discovered that this process is controlled by the breakdown of ATP and involves a rocking motion that allows kinesin to complete long-distance walks in a few seconds.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateJun 27, 2001

Study reveals critical factors affecting urban pollution

A nationwide study by Ohio State University found that ozone concentrations in US cities are primarily influenced by external factors such as construction and road intersections. The study revealed a positive correlation between public transportation use and reduced ozone levels, as well as the importance of preserving green space in d...

SourceOhio State University·JournalGeographical Analysis·DateJun 26, 2001

Americans, Chinese have different childhood memories

A Cornell University developmental psychologist found that American adults and preschool children remember experiences differently from indigenous Chinese. Americans report lengthy, emotionally elaborate memories focusing on the self, whereas Chinese tend to give brief accounts of general routine events centered on collective activitie...

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateJun 26, 2001

Web key helps researchers identify mammals

A new web-based taxonomic key enables researchers to identify mammals by answering a series of questions with accompanying images. The key, developed in collaboration with the University of Dar es Salaam, uses over 170 identified species as a starting point.

A surfeit of eels...

Researchers are developing robotic lampreys with artificial muscle material, onboard compass, and sonar altimeter to mimic nature in technology. The robots can swim backward and maintain an S-shape during movement, making them ideal for stealthy underwater operations.

A match for life

The Office of Naval Research developed an inexpensive and effective HLA test to screen potential bone marrow donors, increasing compatibility by 30%. New research aims to slow down tissue rejection response, allowing near matches.

Just what the vet ordered

The Office of Naval Research has funded a study to develop new plasmid DNA vaccines for marine mammals, aiming to prevent epidemic disease. The studies may soon allow for better protection against infection using vaccination of individual animals within a population.

Moving towards a cure for diabetes

Researchers at Harvard University have created a powerful new tool to combat diabetes, identifying crucial genes responsible for pancreatic development. The discovery sheds light on the role of NGN3 and Pdx-1 in pancreatic development, offering hope for potential therapeutic usage.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateFeb 15, 2001

The molecular evolution of viral drug resistance

Researchers found that HBV polymerase mutations can restore viral replication rate while maintaining drug resistance, affecting treatment efficacy. Entecavir proved effective against even the most vigorous drug-resistant mutants, offering a promising alternative to lamivudine.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateFeb 14, 2001