Loss of new cell growth gene linked to certain human cancers
The Cables protein inhibits cell growth through a chain reaction effect, prompting decreased division. Its expression may thwart uncontrolled cell growth indicative of cancer.
Science News Archive September 2001
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Genetic changes leading to colon cancer noted in normal tissue
A study by Ohio State University researchers reveals minute genetic changes in normal colonic tissue that may signal later development of certain types of colon cancer. The changes, which occur through hypermethylation, appear to be age-related and associated with microsatellite instability.
IIT develops technology that may help doctors identify blood pathogens faster
Students at IIT's Interprofessional Program developed a blood sniffing e-nose that can identify hundreds of specific scent signatures, potentially cutting testing time down to minutes. The technology uses electronic noses sensitive to microscopic particles, similar to the receptors in the human nose.
NIDCR funds centers for research to reduce oral health disparities
The new centers will focus on reducing early childhood caries and addressing disparities in oral cancer screening among minority groups. Researchers will investigate the effects of tooth decay on quality of life, explore ways to involve pediatricians in prevention, and examine oral microbes that trigger tooth decay.
Making new veins
Researchers at UCSF have discovered that continuous expression of the HIF-1a gene can induce formation of new blood vessels in mice. This breakthrough has significant therapeutic potential for treating diseases such as diabetes and recalcitrant wounds.
Columbia Presbyterian researchers show prostate cancer drug significantly arrests tumor growth with minimal side effects
Exisulind, a new selective apoptotic anti-neoplastic drug, delays disease progression in men with recurrent prostate cancer by slowing the rise of PSA levels. The study also found significant inhibition of tumor growth in mice, suggesting potential as a treatment option for advanced prostate cancer.
Researchers build diagram of cell cycle clock
Scientists have developed a technique to map the circuitry underlying fundamental life processes, shedding light on diseases such as cancer. The study reveals a circular network of regulators regulating regulators controlling the cell cycle, providing new insights into cellular processes and potential therapeutic targets.
'Heart-sense' game passes early test: Players prove more likely to seek prompt help for heart attack symptoms
Players of the game are more likely to call 911 or see a doctor in case of an actual heart attack. The most interactive version shows the strongest gains, shifting intentions towards quick action and improved understanding of symptoms.
Rush University College of Nursing among first nursing colleges awarded grant to teach nurses about complementary and alternative therapies
The Rush College of Nursing will integrate information on CAM therapies into undergraduate and graduate nursing curricula and develop continuing education programs for faculty and practicing nurses. The program aims to equip nurses with expertise to assess CAM use, critically appraise therapy safety, and provide patient guidance.
Prayer may influence in vitro fertilization success
A study of 199 women planning in vitro fertilization found that a 50% pregnancy rate was significantly higher for those who had people praying for them compared to the non-prayer group. The researchers acknowledge the results are incredible and hope to provoke discussion on potential biological or other factors at play.
SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 28, 2001
Lung reduction surgery risky for certain emphysema patients
The NETT trial found that advanced emphysema patients with severe lung obstruction or evenly distributed damage should not undergo Lung Volume Reduction Surgery (LVRS). Instead, high-risk patients had a 30-day mortality rate of 16% and only slightly improved functional outcomes six months after surgery.
SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 28, 2001
Protein tied to Alzheimer’s also plays key role in honeybees
Researchers found that forager bees have lower activity levels of a protein called acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in their brains, which may lead to enhanced cognitive performance. A study led by Gene E. Robinson at the University of Illinois showed that reducing AChE activity improved learning abilities in foragers.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Molecular Neuroscience·DateSep 28, 2001
Scientists find new approach to developing medications to prevent relapse to cocaine use
Scientists have discovered a process in the brain's cannabinoid system that may lead to new medications preventing relapse to cocaine use. Researchers found blocking this receptor can prevent rats from seeking cocaine after exposure to cues or stress, offering hope for developing new treatments.
Caterpillars make noise to fend off intruders, researchers discover
Researchers found that caterpillars produce distinct sounds when encountering intruders, which helps them defend their nests and attract predators. In 87% of tests, resident caterpillars successfully repelled intruders using these acoustic signals.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 28, 2001
Scientists at the Scripps Research Institute discover a therapeutic strategy for "misfolding diseases" analogous to Alzheimer's disease
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute develop a therapy to prevent misfolding diseases by incorporating a protein suppressor into the diseased protein, stabilizing it and preventing fibril formation. This approach may also work for other diseases with similar protein-protein interactions.
Leptin may hold key to better weight loss
Researchers found that adding leptin to sibutramine increased weight loss in obese rats, as it prevented a decrease in leptin levels that normally occurs with weight loss. This study provides new clues on how to overcome the plateau effect and may lead to successful treatments for obesity.
American Thoracic Society Journal news tips for September (second issue)
Researchers discovered that fathers' cigarette consumption levels impact children's lung function, with higher levels associated with greater deficits. Non-asthmatic girls showed the greatest declines in pulmonary function tests, suggesting a potential link between paternal smoking and childhood respiratory health.
SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateSep 28, 2001
New study shows targeted lifestyle changes could turn the tide aganst diabetes and heart disease
A University of Otago study found that intensive exercise and specific dietary changes can improve insulin sensitivity by up to 20% in otherwise-healthy individuals. The research, which included 79 participants aged 35-60, also showed a significant improvement in insulin action among Māori participants.
Americans leading healthier lives, reducing risk of death from heart disease, UCSF study finds
A UCSF study found that significant reductions in heart disease risk factors have saved over 430,000 deaths annually, with population-wide dietary changes and widespread use of medications being cost-effective.
SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateSep 28, 2001
Researchers uncover alarming number of undiagnosed hypertension, diabetes in heart study
A recent study by UT Southwestern Medical Center has identified a significant number of undiagnosed hypertension and diabetes cases in the Dallas County population. The project aims to reduce death and disability from coronary heart disease through analysis of collected data.
Adaptive-decision strategy offsets uncertainties in climate sensitivity
A new study by UI atmospheric scientists reveals a 54% chance that climate sensitivity exceeds the IPCC's upper bound, posing significant risks to humanity. The researchers propose an adaptive-decision strategy to mitigate uncertainty and facilitate robust climate-change policy.
Strange trail suggests presence of galactic interloper
Researchers at the University of Illinois and Wisconsin detected a Y-shaped ionized gas filament near the Big Dipper, believed to be produced by radiation from a white dwarf or low-luminosity source. The object's properties differ from other examples, making it difficult to identify its origin.
Two genes are better than one: Combination approach selectively kills pancreatic cancer cells
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have discovered a combination of two genes that selectively kill pancreatic cancer cells in test tube experiments. The mda-7 protein and K-ras antisense DNA combination prevents tumor growth in animals, offering a potential new treatment option for this aggressive disease.
SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 28, 2001
URI biological oceanographers awarded National Science Foundation grant to study increases in jellyfish population
Researchers will investigate the cause of substantial increases in Mnemiopsis leidyi population and determine the effects on coastal ecosystems. The study aims to understand the impacts of climate change on zooplankton populations and the local fishing industry.
Moving gene in plant results in increased production of amino acid
Scientists successfully inserted a gene into chloroplasts, increasing tryptophan production by 10 times in tobacco plants. This approach could lead to improved yield and value in crops, as well as the production of pharmaceuticals like edible vaccines.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateSep 28, 2001
Researchers: Autumn color is nature's sunscreen
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison propose that anthocyanins in plants like maples and oaks produce vibrant autumn colors. The pigments shield sensitive photosynthetic tissue from excessive light and other stresses as trees reabsorb nutrients, allowing them to store energy.
Virtual lung models every breath you take - and its impact
A virtual lung model developed at PNNL may help predict pollutant impact on respiratory systems, providing new insights into asthma and other pulmonary diseases. The model simulates how pollutants enter, travel through, and collect in the lungs, enabling scientists to design targeted treatments.
High-quality family planning services stabilise abortion rate in Bangladesh
A study in Matlab, Bangladesh reveals that improved family planning services decrease abortion rates without increasing population growth. The availability of better-quality services led to lower abortion rates compared to areas with standard government services.
Computer reminders can increase delivery of preventive care to hospitalized patients
A randomized trial shows that computer reminders can significantly boost vaccination rates for hospitalized patients, particularly those over 65. The system identified eligible candidates and prompted physicians to order vaccinations, resulting in a 51% increase in influenza vaccinations and a 36% increase in pneumonia vaccinations.
Heart jacket offers potential innovative treatment for heart failure
The CorCap Cardiac Support Device is a potential innovative treatment for heart failure that supports the heart and prevents further enlargement. Researchers have found that the device can slow or even halt the progression of heart failure by stopping the enlargement of the cardiac muscle.
A sticky situation for ants and bees: UMass biologist looks at how these insects adhere to various surfaces
Researchers discovered that ants and bees use dynamic sticky organs to adhere to various surfaces. The arolium footpad, which secretes a fluid for adhesion, is a key component of this complex system.
SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 27, 2001
Investigational drug makes earlier hospital discharge possible following surgery
Researchers discovered a new drug that can restore bowel function without affecting pain relief, enabling patients to recover faster and be discharged sooner. The study found significant improvements in recovery times for patients taking the 6mg dose of ADL 8-2698.
Research: Third of U.S. adolescents suffer some form of dating violence
A third of U.S. adolescents suffer some form of dating violence, with most instances being psychological abuse. The study found that one in five adolescents reported only psychologic violence and about one in 10 reported physical violence.
SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateSep 27, 2001
K-State researchers fabricate blue micro light-emitting diodes, paving the way for future miniature displays
Kansas State University researchers have created blue micro LEDs that can be used in smaller items like cell phone displays. The new technology increases efficiency by 60 percent compared to conventional LEDs, which can lead to significant energy savings worldwide.
Science features Fox Chase Cancer Center findings on promotion of organ growth
The study reveals that endothelial cells emit signals to encourage the growth of emerging organs, such as the liver and pancreas, even before functioning blood vessels arise. This discovery may lead to a better understanding of organ development and regeneration.
UB biophysicists discover high-speed motility in cells in response to voltage changes
Researchers at the University of Buffalo have discovered that cells 'wiggle' at high speeds when exposed to voltage changes, without relying on special proteins or lipids. This fundamental property of cells opens up new avenues for studying cell motility and its potential applications in medicine.
Tobacco-industry sponsored research misled
Researchers from Mayo Clinic and University of Minnesota found that tobacco industry sponsored research misled the public about the health risks of secondhand smoke. The study analyzed over 1.5 million pages of internal documents, revealing a campaign by the industry to deny health risks and preserve profits.
Blood vessels trigger development of the pancreas
Researchers discovered that blood vessels signal pancreatic cell differentiation, challenging the long-held assumption that organs develop independently. The study found that removing blood vessels from pancreatic tissue disrupts normal gene expression and insulin production.
Physical activity over a lifetime could reduce risk of breast cancer
Research suggests that lifetime physical activity can significantly reduce breast cancer risk, particularly among women engaging in moderate-intensity occupational and household activities. The study found that vigorous activity had little impact on risk reduction, highlighting the importance of frequency and duration of total activity.
DARPA awards computer scientists $2.1 million to integrate security features into mainstream computers
A team led by Jonathan M. Smith from the University of Pennsylvania aims to engineer better security features into mainstream computers through open-source collaboration.
Increased risk of skin cancer for psoriasis patients given ciclosporin
A study found that patients with severe psoriasis who use ciclosporin are at a significantly higher risk of developing squamous cell cancer. The risk is particularly high for those using the medication long-term or for extended periods, highlighting the need for careful assessment of its safety.
Brain scan patterns identify objects being viewed
Researchers at NIMH found that brain activity patterns are unique to each category of object, with even weak responses conveying information about attributes. The study suggests a 'topography' of responses in the ventral temporal lobe of the visual cortex, enabling the brain to represent complex attributes of objects and faces
Study calls for UK childhood screening of metabolic disease
A new study calls for UK childhood screening of medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD) deficiency, a metabolic disorder affecting up to 1 in 9000 people. The condition can be controlled with carbohydrate intake, but severe neurological damage occurs if diagnosed late.
New genetic testing service provides rapid and effective prenatal diagnosis
A new genetic testing service using quantitative fluorescence PCR has been implemented in the UK NHS, providing rapid diagnosis of fetal genetic abnormalities. The service has shown high accuracy and efficiency, with all tested samples yielding results within 1.25 working days.
Lowering of blood pressure reduces risk of recurrent stroke
Combination therapy of perindopril and indapamide significantly lowers blood pressure and reduces recurrent stroke risk. The study found that treatment should be considered routinely for patients with a history of stroke or transient ischemic attack, regardless of their blood pressure level.
UK researchers raise hopes of preserving fertility for women with cancer
UK researchers have made significant progress in preserving fertility for women with cancer by grafting ovarian tissue from cancer patients into mice, demonstrating safety and feasibility. The study has raised hopes for women who require immediate treatment or lack a partner, offering an alternative to embryo freezing.
SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateSep 26, 2001
Researchers discover how micro-organisms affect global cycling of iron
Researchers found that light reacts with iron-bound siderophores, making iron more available to marine bacteria. This process has significant implications for the ocean's iron cycle and carbon sequestration.
Study finds hemochromatosis patients' blood is as safe as other donated blood -- may help alleviate blood shortage
A study found hemochromatosis patients' blood is as safe as other donated blood, potentially alleviating a national blood shortage. The research suggests that patients with the condition can donate without increasing the risk of viral infections.
Fractal extremes predict impending breakdowns
Fractal extremes help predict when surfaces will reach critical points of erosion or accumulation, enabling better material designs and reliable devices. The study uses scaling math and extreme-value statistics to model surface growth and erosion processes, providing a more accurate method for predicting these events.
Bacterial communities found to follow water
Researchers found that bacteria in desert soil migrate towards water, not just light, and return to subsurface after drying out. This discovery has significant implications for understanding underground microbial ecology and potentially locating life on Mars.
NHLBI supported study finds inhaled steroids accelerate bone loss in women with asthma -- treatment still recommended for persistent asthma
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that premenopausal women using inhaled corticosteroids for persistent asthma experience accelerated bone loss in the hip compared to those not using the medication. The study suggests a potential long-term risk of hip fractures for these women.
SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 26, 2001
The RANKL cytokine at 2.6 Å
The RANKL cytokine at 2.6 Å resolution provides detailed information on its structure and function in the body. Researchers used this high-resolution imaging technique to study RANKL's role in bone formation and immune system regulation.
Hospital spending drives largest health care cost increase in a decade
Healthcare costs increased 7.2% in 2000, with hospital spending accounting for nearly half of the overall increase. Prescription drug spending slowed to 14.5%, while physician services saw a 4.8% increase.
Censoring self-specific B cells
Researchers have developed a method to 'censor' self-specific B cells, which can help treat autoimmune diseases. This approach may lead to more effective treatments for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
Regulation of vascular tone by a secreted mitochondrial peptide
A secreted mitochondrial peptide regulates vascular tone by acting on the endothelial nitric oxide synthase, leading to increased NO production and vasodilation. This peptide also modulates the activity of other key enzymes involved in vascular relaxation.
Medication prevents osteoporosis in men treated for prostate cancer
A new study from Massachusetts General Hospital found that medication pamidronate prevented bone loss in men with prostate cancer who received androgen-deprivation therapy. The study showed significant differences in bone mineral density between the treatment and control groups.
Brainy cameras
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a 'Self-Aiming Camera' that uses a simulated neural network to analyze sensory input, process it, and make decisions in real-time. The camera can learn and improve its abilities over time, enabling discrimination between targets such as humans and vehicles.
Most rocks on 433 Eros ejected from a single crater
A global map of asteroid 433 Eros reveals that nearly half of the largest rocks were ejected from a single crater, Shoemaker. The rocks were likely created by a meteorite collision about a billion years ago.
From rockets to hot rods to....
Advanced Ceramics Research (ACR) Inc., a Naval research-funded company, has partnered with the Tohono O'odham Native American Nation to establish a high-tech manufacturing facility. The joint venture aims to produce eco-friendly composite products, including Aquacore, a water-soluble polymer matrix composite.
Listening for an ocean
Researchers suggest deploying vibration-sensitive acoustic sensors on Europa's surface to probe the interior structure and search for signs of life. Massive ice fractures generate unusual cracking sounds that could penetrate the thick ice layer and propagate through the underlying ocean.