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Science News for October 2, 2002


The Lancet Oncology press release

The Lancet Oncology editorial discusses the EPA's 10-year report on diesel exhaust fumes' toxic effects, emphasizing public health implications. The article also reviews mathematical models identifying breast cancer risk factors and explores chemoprevention strategies.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateOct 2, 2002

Key sensory proteins unveiled in mosquito genome found by Illinois entomologist

Researchers have identified 276 G protein-coupled receptors in the Anopheles mosquito genome, including 155 external chemosensory receptors that allow female mosquitoes to detect humans and other mammals by taste or smell. The discovery provides a new approach to studying mosquitoes and reducing the spread of malaria and other diseases.

JCI table of contents: October 1, 2002

Scientists study emesis in genetically engineered mice lacking specific PDE4 subtypes and infer that inhibition of PDE4D mediates nausea. The discovery could lead to the development of selective PDE4 inhibitors with anti-inflammatory effects, reducing side effects in humans.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 2, 2002

Study reveals clues to brain development

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory found that visual stimulation causes neurons to sprout new branches, a process that requires increased activity of certain proteins and decreased activity of others. The study provides insights into how visual stimulation guides the development of normal brain architecture.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature·DateOct 2, 2002

Researchers find promising new target for anxiety-reducing drugs

Scientists have identified a potential new target in the brain for anxiety-reducing medications, which may provide less disruptive alternatives to existing sedatives. By inhibiting a specific enzyme protein kinase C (PKC-epsilon), researchers hope to develop new treatments that can modulate GABA function without addictive side effects.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 2, 2002

'Prehabilitation' prevents functional decline of at-risk frail elders living at home

A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that a prehabilitation program improved balance, muscle strength, and mobility in physically frail elderly individuals. The program, which included physical therapy and resistance band exercises, significantly reduced disability scores compared to a health education group.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Aging·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 2, 2002

Nanocylinders open way to polymer electronics

Researchers have successfully synthesized clusters of fluorine-containing dendritic polymers that organize into tiny supramolecular cylinders. These nanocylinders display promising optoelectronic properties and can be used as donor- or acceptor groups, enabling the creation of novel electronic devices.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateOct 2, 2002