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Science News Archive March 2003 - Page 7


Page 7 of 10

Chemical in soy alters reproductive organs in male rats

Researchers found that genistein exposure during pregnancy and lactation can lead to smaller testes and larger prostates in male offspring, as well as lower testosterone levels and decreased fertility. The study suggests potential long-term detrimental effects on male reproductive development, warranting further investigation.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateMar 10, 2003

New, more effective option for gene data mining identified

A new method, KL clustering, has been identified as more effective than hierarchical clustering in separating gene expression data into dense clusters. The approach uses a novel measure of similarity to create well-separated clusters, offering insights into gene-gene interactions and biological processes.

SourcePenn State·JournalBioinformatics·DateMar 7, 2003

Identifying depression in preschoolers

Researchers found that preschoolers with depression exhibit symptoms similar to those in older children and adults, including anhedonia, sadness, and low energy. The study also highlighted the importance of identifying and treating depression in young children to prevent impairment of normal development.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateMar 7, 2003

Organic and sustainable foods have more polyphenolics linked to health benefits

Researchers at UC Davis found that organic and sustainably-grown fruits and vegetables contain higher levels of polyphenolics, a type of natural chemical with potential health benefits. The study suggests that the absence of pesticides and fertilizers in sustainable farming practices may lead to increased production of these chemicals.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateMar 7, 2003

Columbia Univ. researchers identify possible new culprit in Alzheimer's disease plaque formation

Researchers at Columbia University have found that astrocytes can degrade beta-amyloid proteins, a key component of Alzheimer's plaques, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for the disease. The study suggests activating astrocyte activity may be beneficial in reducing plaque buildup and improving treatment outcomes.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 7, 2003

Psychology professor maps choice-making in the brain

Research by Kansas State University psychology professor maps choice-making in the brain, revealing two systems: deliberative and emotional. The study demonstrates the relationship between brain activity and observed choices, with surprising results on how the brain processes risk and ambiguity.

SourceKansas State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 6, 2003

Pheromone receptors need 'escorts'

Researchers discovered that MHC proteins, including M10, play a crucial role in detecting and modulating pheromone activity in mice. The findings suggest that these proteins may act as escorts for pheromone receptors, allowing them to reach the surface of neurons where chemical reception takes place.

Prostate cancer series

The Prostate Cancer Series assesses the epidemiology of prostate cancer, highlighting the impact of genetic and environmental risk factors. Despite progress in understanding diet-related risks, familial clustering, and ethnic variation remain poorly understood, presenting opportunities for further research.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 6, 2003

From overdose to organ donor

A new study published in Critical Care found that 70% of transplant doctors would consider accepting organs from poisoned patients. This increase in organ donation could save lives and address the global shortage of healthy organs available for transplant operations.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalCritical Care·DateMar 6, 2003