Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for August 1, 2001


Harnessing the autoimmune response

Researchers develop a technique to conjugate peptides to virus-like particles, generating high-titer antibodies that inhibit disease-causing cytokines. This approach shows promise in blocking or delaying onset of autoimmune diseases such as arthritis.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 1, 2001

Artifact analyses dispute assumptions about a prehistoric society

Researchers at University of Illinois dispute extensive trade theory for prehistoric society Cahokia, citing new evidence that local red flint clay was used instead of catlinite. The study uses a new mineral analyzer technique to identify the stone's mineral composition and find no connection between catlinite and the culture.

Therapy to help women reduce their concerns about gaining weight found to be effective in helping them to stop smoking

A new therapy has been found to be effective in helping women overcome their concerns about gaining weight when quitting smoking. The study, published in Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, found that 21% of women who received therapy had completely quit smoking with no relapses.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·DateAug 1, 2001

Adversaries would find other attack methods, game theory shows

Researchers applied game theory to assess the feasibility of a proposed national missile defense (NMD) system. They found that protection may be a placebo if widely believed to be effective, prompting a cautious approach to deployment. The study suggests focusing on research and development and exploring alternative credible alternatives.

The protective role of secreted CD14

Scientists propose sCD14 as a protective mechanism against LPS-mediated inflammation. Studies show that increasing sCD14 levels can neutralize LPS and reduce inflammatory cytokine secretion. The protein's role in sepsis treatment is still uncertain, but its discovery offers new hope for managing systemic effects of bacterial infections.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 1, 2001

Community activism helps curb homelessness

A recent study found that community activism has a positive impact on the lives of mentally ill homeless individuals. The research, which tracked over 2,500 participants in 18 US towns and cities, revealed that those living in areas with high levels of community engagement were more likely to achieve stable housing.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalHealth Services Research·DateAug 1, 2001

The glory of a nearby star

Scientists have successfully observed an optical coronal line from iron ions in a star called CN Leonis, located 8 light-years away. This achievement marks the first time such a detection has been made outside of our solar system and opens up new avenues for studying stellar cycles.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateAug 1, 2001

Cancer diagnostic method could reduce biopsies

A new imaging method developed at Ohio State University uses computerized analysis of magnetic resonance images to detect blurred regions that may indicate cancer. This method could significantly reduce the number of painful biopsies women undergo, with a recent study showing nearly 100% accuracy in detecting these regions.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging·DateAug 1, 2001

Counseling improves safe sex practices among HIV-positive individuals

A new study finds that a behavioral intervention program significantly reduces the incidence of risky sex behavior and transmission of HIV among HIV-positive men and women. The program, which included lessons on coping with HIV-related stress and promoting safer sex practices, led to increased condom use and reduced transmission rates.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateAug 1, 2001

GLUT4 in membrane ruffles

Researchers found GLUT4 inserted into plasma membranes at regions of membrane ruffling. High insulin and glucose levels impede this process, suggesting a novel explanation for muscle glucose homeostasis loss in diabetes. This study provides insight into the role of membrane-cytoskeletal interactions in regulating glucose uptake.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 1, 2001

New long-necked dinosaur in Madagascar

A nearly complete long-necked sauropod dinosaur was recently unearthed in Madagascar, providing the first comprehensive view of a titanosaur skull. The discovery, announced by NSF-funded scientists, confirms a close relationship between titanosaurs and brachiosaurs, revolutionizing our understanding of Mesozoic reptiles.