Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive August 2004 - Page 7


Page 7 of 12

MICs shed light on prostate cancer

Researchers found that prostate cancer cells shed immunostimulatory molecules, allowing them to evade the immune system's natural killer cell defense. Soluble MIC levels in serum correlated with high-grade and invasive tumor status, suggesting a potential biomarker for disease progression.

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

Putting energy into heart protection

A recent study published in JCI Journals reveals that AMP-activated protein kinase plays a crucial role in protecting the heart against ischemic stress. The kinase mediates increased glucose uptake in the heart during ischemia, which helps prevent post-ischemic cardiac dysfunction, apoptosis, and injury.

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

American Thoracic Society Journal news tips for August 2004 (second issue)

Researchers found that combination antibiotic therapy significantly improved survival rates among critically ill patients with severe pneumonia, with a mortality rate of 23.4% compared to 55.3% for those on monotherapy. A new test combining symptom questions, body weight data, and oxygen concentration measures shows a 91% predictive ra...

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 16, 2004

COPD patients with most severe form more likely to harbor pneumocystis in their lungs

Research at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine found that COPD patients with the most advanced disease are more likely to harbor Pneumocystis jiroveci in their lungs. This colonization is strongly associated with increased airway obstruction and worse lung function, even after adjusting for smoking history.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 15, 2004

Marijuana ingredient inhibits VEGF pathway required for brain tumor blood vessels

A study found that cannabinoids significantly lowered VEGF activity in laboratory mice and patients with late-stage glioblastoma, providing a potential new approach to treating this aggressive form of cancer. The research suggests that cannabinoid-based therapies may target the VEGF pathway, offering a novel pharmacological target.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateAug 15, 2004

More doctors needed, without discrimination

The number of female consultants has risen by more than 50% in the last 10 years, driven by increasing numbers of women admitted to medical school. However, sexism and a lack of flexibility in working environments are still major issues affecting female doctors' careers.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 12, 2004

Got the time?

Researchers have created a molecular timetable that can accurately determine an animal's body time based on gene expression levels. The study identified 168 genes with high amplitude circadian patterns and organized them into a daily schedule, revealing a highly accurate method for measuring body time.

SourceRIKEN Center for Developmental Biology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 12, 2004

New hope for children with fetal alcohol syndrome

Researchers found that a diagnosis of FAS at an early age and a stable environment can reduce the risk of negative life experiences by two-to-four-fold. Children with FAE often lack physical characteristics, but still face challenges with learning, memory, and problem-solving.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateAug 12, 2004