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Science News Archive August 2002 - Page 7


Page 7 of 8

City birds prefer rich neighbors

A study of 15 community parks found that bird diversity and abundance are linked to neighborhood income, not park size or vegetation. However, the correlation between trees and bird populations is weak, suggesting other factors, such as cat populations or urban planning, may be at play.

Applying ecosystem services

Adam Davis's work focuses on integrating economic value into land conservation for private landowners, using current regulations to drive the economic value of conservation. Companies are finding that investing in protected environments is not only good for the Earth but also a sound financial investment.

Peptide suppresses multiple sclerosis-like disease

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a peptide treatment that inhibits experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) and suppresses the onset of multiple sclerosis-like symptoms. The treatment targets T cells by binding to CD80, preventing their activation and expansion in disease.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateAug 7, 2002

Hormone found to reduce appetite by a third

A new hormone called PYY3-36 has been found to reduce food intake by a third in volunteers, providing potential relief for those struggling with weight problems. The discovery could lead to natural and safe treatments for obesity, potentially identifying specific foods that trigger hunger or developing a tablet with a similar effect.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature·DateAug 7, 2002

Jet contrails alter average daily temperature range

A study by Penn State researchers found that jet contrails altered the average daily temperature range in the United States during a three-day commercial air shutdown in September 2001. The diurnal temperature range increased by 1.8 degrees Celsius, with daytime temperatures being higher and nighttime temperatures lower without contrails.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateAug 7, 2002

Toxin injections prove useful for spasticity after stroke

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that botulinum toxin type A injections significantly improved muscle tone and function in patients with wrist and finger spasticity after a stroke. The treatment showed sustained effects for at least 12 weeks, with some cases lasting up to 24 weeks.

SourceIndiana University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 7, 2002

Activism may help those with AIDS cope better with illness

Research suggests that social activism in groups like ACT UP can help individuals with AIDS and HIV cope better with their medical and psychological problems. Activist group members tend to use more problem-focused coping, have greater knowledge of treatment information sources, and are more integrated into support networks.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Social and Personal Relationships·DateAug 7, 2002

Aspirin may help prevent pancreatic cancer

A study of over 7 years found that women taking aspirin two to five times per week had a lower risk of pancreatic cancer compared to those not taking it. The researchers estimate that aspirin use might prevent up to 43% of pancreatic cancer cases in women who do not normally take aspirin.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateAug 6, 2002

Finding the right path

A mathematical model supports the use of drug cycling as a tool to control TB resistance, particularly in regions with increased mobility. The EU is identified as an example where this approach could be applied to address global health concerns.

Better access to health care is key to higher survival rates for African-Americans with colon cancer

Research suggests that African-Americans with colon cancer fare equally well when receiving the same treatment as white patients, dispelling long-held theories about innate biological differences. The study found no significant disparities in survival rates between the two groups five years after treatment.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateAug 6, 2002

A look at development, rural trends, birds

Researchers at the University of Michigan found that low-density exurban development increased by 2000 to occupy nearly 10 times the area of urbanized land, while agricultural land use decreased in some areas. Special planning can help minimize environmental impact through designs that deliver public benefits like clean water and nativ...

Netting the NET: An anorexia nervosa gene is caught!

A study published in Molecular Psychiatry found a genetic link between the NET protein, which regulates norepinephrine levels, and an increased risk of restrictive anorexia nervosa. The discovery could lead to new treatments for this devastating illness, which has the highest death rate among psychiatric disorders.

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateAug 5, 2002