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Science News for December 23, 2003


Whole-body PET/CT scan appears useful for determining tumor stage

Researchers found that whole-body PET/CT scans were accurate in determining tumor stage for 75% of patients, compared to 54% with whole-body MRI. The study concluded that FDG-PET/CT can be recommended as a first-line tool for whole-body tumor staging of different oncological diseases.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateDec 23, 2003

Argonne researchers explore confinement of light with metal nanoparticles

Researchers used advanced imaging and modeling techniques to study near-field behavior in metal nanoparticles. They found that arrays of nanoparticles scatter light at much smaller angles, making them suitable for two-dimensional devices such as optical chips.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateDec 23, 2003

Armies of fighting fungi protect chocolate trees

Researchers discovered that fungi infecting healthy plant tissues can provide protection against pathogens, increasing survival rates for cacao leaves. Field tests are underway to cultivate such fungal armies as biological control agents.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 23, 2003
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Preliminary report suggests combination therapy may help treat SARS

Researchers found that patients treated with corticosteroids plus interferon alfacon-1 experienced faster resolution of chest x-ray abnormalities and improved oxygen saturation levels compared to those treated with corticosteroids alone. This suggests that combination therapy may be a promising approach for treating SARS.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateDec 23, 2003

Potential genetic links discovered between metabolic syndrome, diabetes and cardiovascular disease

A new study finds evidence of genetic linkages to metabolic syndrome in both black and white patients. The researchers also identified chromosomal regions linked to cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes risk factors. These findings bring us closer to discovering the actual genes responsible for metabolic syndrome.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateDec 23, 2003