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Science News for August 4, 2004


New discovery may help transplants survive

A new study by the Schepens Eye Research Institute reveals a previously unknown connection that stimulates immune response in the eye and other parts of the body. By blocking VEGFR-3 growth factor, researchers can arrest the rejection process, leading to improved survival rates for corneal transplant patients.

SourceSchepens Eye Research Institute·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 4, 2004

Study shows how consensus is attained in a noisy world

A new study by Northwestern University researchers shows that social networks can efficiently lead to global organization, even with imperfect information transmission due to noise or error. The model is adaptable and robust, capable of responding to external conditions, and people tend to adjust their opinions based on the majority

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 4, 2004

Immune therapy 'untangles' Alzheimer's disease

Researchers found that immune therapy against Alzheimer's disease not only removes the toxic amyloid plaque but also clears protein tangles, suggesting a broad assault on the disease. The treatment was shown to clear both hallmark lesions of AD by alleviating interference in the cell's protein garbage disposal system.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateAug 4, 2004

Genes may be central to cocaine addiction

Researchers found that Homer1 or Homer2 gene knockout mice showed greater preference for chambers associated with cocaine administration and increased motivation to self-administer cocaine. They also exhibited neurochemical changes characteristic of addiction, including reduced glutamate levels during withdrawal.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateAug 4, 2004

Twinkle, twinkle little star, how I wonder where you are

Materials researchers created a metamaterial with a negative refractive index for microwaves, allowing it to transmit light differently than natural materials. This discovery has implications for space navigation and the location of stars, making it challenging to determine their origins.

SourcePenn State·JournalCurrent Science·DateAug 4, 2004

Protein loss plays role in acute T-cell leukemia

Researchers found that Smad3 protein was present in B-cell and non-lymphocyte samples but almost absent in T-cell samples. In mice, deletion of the Smad3 gene impairs TGF-B's ability to stop T-cell proliferation. Further studies are needed to understand the mechanisms behind Smad3's absence in childhood T-cell leukemia.

SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Biology·DateAug 4, 2004

Study suggests humans can speed evolution

A study by J. Todd Streelman found that human-induced disturbance accelerated the evolutionary process of cichlid fish, leading to two genetically distinct populations with distinct color patterns. The findings suggest a potential for rapid speciation and highlight the impact of human activity on evolutionary processes.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateAug 4, 2004

Group dynamics

Researchers explore the role of genetics, social organization, and sexual selection in shaping family structures and behaviors in various species. From pathogens to genes, scientists uncover the intricate mechanisms driving the evolution of complex social systems.

Free antiretroviral drugs cut Taiwan's HIV transmission rate in half

A government policy providing free access to potent antiretroviral drugs has significantly reduced the HIV transmission rate in Taiwan, with an estimated decrease of 53%. The study, led by Chi-Tai Fang and Jung-Der Wang, used public health surveillance data to evaluate the impact of the policy on the country's HIV epidemic.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateAug 4, 2004