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Science News for August 1, 2003


Mutation may help cause acute myeloid leukemia

Research suggests that a mutation in a tyrosine kinase receptor gene, when combined with aml1-eto gene mutation, can cause acute myeloid leukemia in mice. This discovery raises the possibility of new treatments targeting these genes to control the disease.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 1, 2003

'Pachinko chances'

A new theory suggests that human metabolism operates like a pinball machine, influencing drug toxicity and disease development. The researchers used metabonomics to study global human metabolism and its interactions with drugs, environment, and gut microflora.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Reviews Drug Discovery·DateAug 1, 2003

Stress leads kids to unhealthy diets

A recent study of 4,320 schoolchildren found that stress leads to unhealthy dietary habits, including a preference for fatty foods and snacks, while ignoring recommended daily intake of fruits and vegetables. This could have long-term consequences, such as increased risk of obesity, heart disease, and Type 2 diabetes in adulthood.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalHealth Psychology·DateAug 1, 2003

Protect and serve

A lawyer warns US physicians that treating detainees labeled as 'unlawful combatants' may go against their ethical code. The 1949 Third Geneva Convention entitles these prisoners to basic human rights, but the US government's label is unrecognized in International Humanitarian Law.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medical Ethics·DateAug 1, 2003

JCI table of contents, 1 August 2003

Researchers found that 8 out of 20 commonly used NSAIDs can selectively lower Abeta42 levels in mice, with flurbiprofen showing the most promise. Additionally, studies revealed increased T cell reactivity to Abeta protein in older humans and patients with Alzheimer's disease, which could inform the design of future vaccines.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 1, 2003

Vitamin C may protect against ulcer-causing bacteria, study finds

A large study of nearly 7,000 American adults found that higher vitamin C levels were associated with a lower prevalence of H. pylori infection. The researchers suggest that adequate vitamin C intake may reduce the risk of peptic ulcers and stomach cancer, although more research is needed to confirm this association.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of the American College of Nutrition·DateAug 1, 2003

Mirrors can make women feel worse about working out

A study found that exercising in front of a mirror reduces women's energy, relaxation, and positivity. This effect persists even among those with good body image, suggesting mirrors may hinder physical activity motivation. The findings have implications for exercise promotion guidelines and the use of mirrors in workout centers.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalHealth Psychology·DateAug 1, 2003