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Science News for August 21, 2002


Potential cause of arthritis discovered

Researchers have discovered that certain types of naturally occurring carbohydrates in the body may cause rheumatoid arthritis by triggering an immune response and leading to inflammation and joint damage. The study found that glycosaminoglycans, a major component of joint cartilage and skin, activate inflammatory cells in the joints.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 21, 2002

Study finds link between common neurological disorder and Alzheimer's disease

Researchers at The Wistar Institute have discovered a link between neurofibromatosis and Alzheimer's disease, with the shared protein kinesin-1 playing a pivotal role in protein trafficking. This finding opens new avenues for investigation into both diseases, providing insights into vital cellular processes.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 21, 2002
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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New antibacterial coating may prolong contact lens life

Researchers have developed a new antibacterial coating using selenium that can kill bacteria and extend contact lens wear time. The coating, which is only one molecule thick, has shown promising results in rabbits, with no ill effects after two consecutive months of wear.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 21, 2002

PNNL gathers most complete protein map of 'world's toughest bacterium'

The study provides a comprehensive understanding of the proteome of D. radiodurans, revealing new insights into its remarkable ability to withstand radiation and degrade radioactive materials. The research used advanced mass spectrometry techniques to identify over 1,900 proteins in the bacterium.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2002

Lipid abnormalities linked to Lou Gehrig’s disease

Researchers found elevated levels of ceramides and cholesterol esters in spinal cords of people with ALS, leading to motor neuron degeneration. Treating these lipids with a drug called ISP-1 may prevent this process.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Aging·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateAug 21, 2002

New cancer drug possible from compound found in common food

Researchers at University College London have discovered a potential new cancer treatment using compounds found in cola beverages, coffee, tea, and chocolate. The compounds block the operation of a key enzyme linked to cell growth and blood clotting.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 21, 2002
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Fresno chemist George Kauffman wins ACS Helen M. Free award

George Kauffman, a renowned Fresno chemist, has won the ACS Helen M. Free Award for his outstanding contributions to public outreach in chemistry. With over 1750 scientific papers and 16 books on science for general readers, Kauffman is celebrated for his work in making chemistry accessible to the public.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 21, 2002

Marine biodiversity essential to preserving species

A new study by Oregon State University researchers found that removing any one species from a marine food web can have devastating effects, leading to population collapse and regional extinction. The study's findings highlight the importance of preserving biodiversity in marine ecosystems.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 21, 2002

Marijuana-derived compound targets pain, inflammation

A new compound, ajulemic acid, is being tested for its effectiveness in treating chronic pain, arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. Results from animal studies have shown promising results, and the compound has been found to be safe and effective with minimal side effects.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 21, 2002

Natural-born killers enlisted to fight anthrax

Researchers have developed a new agent using phage enzymes that can specifically target and eliminate millions of anthrax bacteria within seconds. This targeted killer also shows promise as an anthrax detection and decontamination tool, with potential applications in mailrooms or subway stations.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalNature·DateAug 21, 2002
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Three dimensional structure of a protein transport machine

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute of Biophysics have determined the first structure of the SecYEG protein translocation machinery from Escherichia coli. The structure provides a detailed view of the complex, which binds and transports secretory and membrane proteins.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateAug 21, 2002

'Nanoantennas' could bring sensitive detectors, optical circuits

The Purdue team has developed a new type of antenna that can detect a single molecule using electromagnetic radiation. This innovation could lead to detectors millions of times more sensitive than current technology, with potential applications in medical diagnostics and homeland security.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Nonlinear Optical Physics & Materials·DateAug 21, 2002