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Science News for February 5, 2004


Pesticide exposure among agricultural workers varies by job task

Researchers found that agricultural workers who thin orchards have detectable levels of pesticides in their house and vehicle dust, posing a risk to children. Children of thinners were more likely to have detectable pesticide metabolites in their urine, supporting the theory that workers track home pesticides on their clothing and shoes.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateFeb 5, 2004

Natural killer cellers are made, not born

Rockefeller University scientists have discovered that natural killer cells, a crucial part of the immune system, need to be 'nurtured' before they can effectively destroy tumor and infected cells. This new understanding paves the way for potential changes in bone marrow and stem cell transplant procedures.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateFeb 5, 2004

Blood transfusion poses CJD risk

A UK-based study found that individuals who received blood components from donors later diagnosed with vCJD were at increased risk. Researchers also discovered that the BSE agent can be transmitted through intravenous routes, highlighting concerns for possible transfusion cases.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 5, 2004

MIT team discovers memory mechanism

The study reveals a direct activational signal from the synapse to the protein synthesis machinery, enabling neurons to boost protein production rapidly during long-term memory formation and synaptic strengthening. This discovery has significant implications for understanding psychiatric and neurologic diseases, potentially leading to ...

New MS research shows remarkable findings

A new study by McGill University researchers has identified phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) as a key enzyme that triggers multiple sclerosis-like disease in an animal model. Treatment with a chemical inhibitor of this enzyme results in a marked reduction in the onset and severity of the disease.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 5, 2004

Stroke news tips for Thursday, Feb. 5, 2004

Researchers have identified the optimal dosage of a bat-derived clot-buster for acute ischemic stroke treatment, finding a dose of 125 micrograms per kilogram to improve neurological function scores. Carotid artery screenings in seniors may also help prevent strokes and save billions of dollars in healthcare costs.