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Science News Archive July 2003


Page 1 of 9

Designer proteins

Researchers at Duke University have successfully redesigned sensor proteins that can detect a range of molecules, including explosives like TNT and neurotransmitters. This breakthrough could lead to new technologies for monitoring diabetes and locating underwater robots.

Stem cell death gives clue to brain cell survival

Researchers at UGA have identified a lipid-protein duo causing massive stem cell death during brain development, but also hinting at potential recovery mechanisms for devastating diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The study reveals that this 'deadly couple' leads to the survival of cells destined to form neurons.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJul 31, 2003

Risk of Hepatitis E from consumption of deer?

A study in Japan found that consuming raw Japanese deer meat may transmit Hepatitis E virus (HEV), a rare liver disease. The infected deer meat tested positive for HEV RNA, suggesting an animal route of transmission. This discovery adds the Sika deer to the list of foods with a risk of transmitting HEV.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 31, 2003

Waiter, there's a shark in my soup

Researchers have developed a DNA-based test to accurately distinguish great white sharks from other species, even when only dried fins or meat are available. This new test will help conservationists and fisheries managers better regulate and protect great whites, a species that has declined by up to 79% in the northwestern Atlantic.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalConservation Genetics·DateJul 31, 2003

How old mice get bright again

Max Planck researchers found that reducing SK3 channel production in the hippocampus of aged mice prevented learning and memory deficits. The study provides new insight into the mechanisms of age-related cognitive decline and suggests a potential therapeutic approach.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJul 31, 2003

Salk news: Understanding gene function

The Salk Institute's latest study, led by Joseph Ecker, provides a detailed map of Arabidopsis genes and their functions. The team has also identified key molecular pathways involved in ethylene gas signaling, which is crucial for plant growth, yield, and drought tolerance.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalScience·DateJul 31, 2003

Congress is not so easily 'bought'

A study published by the American Sociological Association finds that campaign contributions and lobbying have limited impact on policy, with party lines and ideology playing a greater role. The average PAC donation to candidates is $1,700, which is not enough to win significant influence.

SourceAmerican Sociological Association·Journalسياقات اللغة والدراسات البينية·DateJul 31, 2003

Animal studies show CA4P suppresses development and induces regression of ocular neovascularization

Researchers used transgenic mice to study CA4P's effect on choroidal neovascularization, finding it suppressed development and induced partial regression of established CNV. CA4P joins a growing list of drugs with potential as prophylactic agents for retinal and/or choroidal neovascularization.

SourceSharon Merrill Associates, Inc.·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateJul 31, 2003

Researchers solve structure of key drug target

A research team led by H. Ronald Kaback solved the three-dimensional structure of the bacterial membrane transport protein lacose permease (LacY), shedding light on its mechanism and function. The resulting structure revealed intricate interactions between amino acids, sugars, and protons, providing crucial insights into membrane trans...

Lengthening achilles tendon reduces recurrence of diabetic foot ulcers

A study published in Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that lengthening the Achilles tendon can reduce the recurrence of diabetic foot ulcers by up to 75% after seven months. The procedure, which involves stretching the tendon and immobilizing the foot for six weeks, also requires caution to prevent increased stress on the heel.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateJul 31, 2003

Battle lasers

The US Navy is developing a powerful free-electron laser that can transmit infrared light for use in ship-defense systems. The laser has the capability of generating extremely short pulses, sub-picosecond pulses, and breaking records for tunable high-average power lasers.

Eating peanuts helps keep heart healthy without weight gain

Research by Richard Mattes and Corinna Alper found that regular peanut consumption reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease without causing significant weight gain. The study involved three trials where participants added peanuts to their diet, with no increase in body weight detected despite adding 500 calories a day.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of the American College of Nutrition·DateJul 31, 2003

Hygiene is most potent force in tackling deadly diseases

A study by James Lloyd-Smith and colleagues found that hospital-wide infection controls are crucial in preventing disease transmission. The research highlights the importance of general infection control measures over specific precautions for known cases, particularly in developing countries where resources may be limited.

SourceRoyal Society·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society of London·DateJul 30, 2003

American Thoracic Society Journal news tips for August 2003 (first issue)

Recent studies highlight the importance of addressing weight concerns without stigmatizing obese patients. The American Thoracic Society Journal reports on innovative approaches to weight loss treatment and sheds light on previously unexplored phenomena such as chimerism in human lung tissue after stem cell transplantation.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJul 30, 2003

NASA scientist discovers new species of organism in Mars-like environment

A NASA scientist has discovered a new species of organism that thrives in a salty, alkaline environment without oxygen. The Spirochaeta americana microorganism can survive in conditions inhospitable to humans and is of great interest to astrobiologists studying the possibility of life on Mars.

SourceNASA/Marshall Space Flight Center News Center·JournalINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY·DateJul 30, 2003

Physics tip sheet #36 - July 30, 2003

Researchers at UCLA created a 30-cm diameter plasma laser by applying a nonuniform magnetic field. Meanwhile, scientists have made rapid advances in detecting dark matter using weak gravitational lensing experiments. A paper also examines the emerging behavior of complex systems in electronic bidding on online auction sites like eBay.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 30, 2003