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Science News Archive August 2004 - Page 6


Page 6 of 12

New understanding of the machinery of flinching

The study found that increasing neuronal activity in the region enhances flinch responses, while decreasing activity reduces sustained defensive movements. This suggests the polysensory zone is a hotspot for processing specific stimuli related to body defense.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateAug 18, 2004

Study narrows search for genes placing men at increased risk for prostate cancer

A large family-based study identified specific genes associated with increased prostate cancer susceptibility, highlighting the potential for early detection and targeted surveillance. The study's findings also revealed that prostate cancers in genetically predisposed individuals tend to be more aggressive and fatal.

SourceThe Translational Genomics Research Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateAug 17, 2004

Family structure impacts teens' academic success

Adolescents living with both biological or adoptive parents tend to have higher grades and greater college expectations. In contrast, adolescents from single-mother families often experience lower academic achievement due to economic deprivation. Single mothers face significant challenges in planning for their children's future education.

Other highlights in the August 18 JNCI

A new study has identified five chromosomal regions that are likely to harbor prostate cancer susceptibility genes. The study found evidence of a gene on the long arm of chromosome 17 and four other regions that might hold susceptibility genes. Additionally, researchers have discovered that men who carry a specific mutation in the MIC-...

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateAug 17, 2004

Possible new cure for psoriasis

Researchers at the University of Bonn have found a new effective therapy for psoriasis by blocking the division of epidermis cells. The treatment, which uses metalloproteinase inhibitors, has shown no toxic side effects and may provide a promising solution for the condition.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateAug 16, 2004

Progress in breast cancer progression

Researchers found that NF-kB is essential for the initial transition stage of epithelial-mesenchymal transition in breast cancer cells. Inhibiting NF-kB after transition prevents cells from becoming invasive.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 16, 2004

JCI table of contents, 16 August, 2004

Researchers found that AMPK plays a vital role in protecting cells under conditions of a heart attack, including glucose uptake and preventing cardiac dysfunction. In contrast, mice without functional AMPK exhibited impaired contractile function and increased cell death after blood flow reduction.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 16, 2004

Pollen-blocking cream may help reduce allergy symptoms

Researchers found that a new ointment, applied inside the nose, significantly reduced symptom scores in patients with allergic rhinitis. The treatment improved airflow by nearly 20 percent and reduced symptoms by about 60 percent compared to a placebo.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateAug 16, 2004

Breast cancer screening underutilized by ethnic women

A study by University of Toronto researchers found that only 38.5% of Urdu- and Hindi-speaking women had undergone a clinical breast examination, despite 83% being aware of the procedure. The study highlights gaps in knowledge about breast cancer risk and screening methods among South Asian immigrant women.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Immigrant Health·DateAug 16, 2004

Female aboriginal inmates get bum rap

Research by University of Toronto criminologists reveals a systematic bias against Aboriginal women prisoners, leading to unfair classification rates and reduced privileges. The study found that 60% of Aboriginal women were classified as medium security risks despite committing fewer infractions in prison.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCanadian Journal of Criminology and Criminal Justice/La Revue canadienne de criminologie et de justice pénale·DateAug 16, 2004