Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive January 2004 - Page 3


Page 3 of 7

Scientists grow neurons using nanostructures

Researchers at Northwestern University have successfully grown nerve cells using an artificial three-dimensional network of nanofibers, a technique important in regenerative medicine. The innovative scaffold directs cell differentiation, driving neural progenitor cells to become neurons and not astrocytes.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateJan 22, 2004

Postnatal depression: A personal view

Postnatal depression is a severe mental illness with long-term effects, responding to treatment and requiring multidisciplinary care. The Lancet article shares a personal account and highlights the importance of recognition, support groups, and medical community response.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 22, 2004

Human migration tracked in Stanford computer simulation

A team of researchers at Stanford University used a computer simulation to trace the origins of genetic mutations in human populations. By modeling population growth, migration, and mutation rates, they were able to estimate the location and time of origin for these genetic changes.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 21, 2004

Two proteins may help prevent Alzheimer's brain plaques

Researchers discovered that apolipoprotein E and clusterin proteins can delay amyloid plaque formation in mice with Alzheimer's-like brain damage. The findings imply that these proteins cooperate to suppress Abeta protein levels and deposition, paving the way for future drug or gene therapy treatments.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateJan 21, 2004

Estrogen makes the brain more vulnerable to stress

Researchers found that female rats were more sensitive to stress-induced memory errors when estrogen levels were high. Eliminating estrogen from their system reduced this sensitivity, suggesting a key role for estrogen in the vulnerability of women to stress-related mental illnesses.

SourceYale University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJan 21, 2004

Exposure to carcinogens not proportionally decreased by reduction in smoking

A recent study found that reducing cigarette consumption by 25%, 50%, and 75% did not proportionally decrease the levels of carcinogens in smokers' urine. Despite a reduction in cigarettes smoked per day, NNK metabolites remained relatively stable. The authors suggest that people may compensate for reduced smoking by inhaling longer an...

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 20, 2004

Primates trade smell for sight

A recent study found a correlation between the loss of olfactory receptor genes and the acquisition of full trichromatic color vision in primates. The research team analyzed 19 primate species, including humans, and discovered that Old World monkeys and apes had similar percentages of OR pseudogenes, while New World monkeys had lower p...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 20, 2004

Brain receptor switches addiction on, off

Researchers have discovered a brain receptor, GABA-A, that can be manipulated to control the switch between addicted and non-addicted states in the brain. By controlling this switch pharmacologically, it may be possible to take drug addicts back to a non-addicted state in a relatively short period of time.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 20, 2004

Simple sugars make cell walls like steel

Purdue University scientists discovered that simple sugars, particularly galactose, are essential for maintaining plant cell wall strength. The study found that enzymes break down xyloglucan polymers during growth, allowing microfibrils to separate and new fibers to be integrated, preventing the cell wall from becoming too thick.

SourcePurdue University·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateJan 20, 2004

Flexible screen technology ready to roll

Flexible organic light emitting devices (FOLEDs), developed by University of Toronto engineers, offer a potential solution for future generations of bendable television, computer and cellphone screens. The technology could be manufactured using low-cost, high-efficiency mass production methods within two to three years.

To avoid detection, HIV disrupts immune cell migration

Researchers found that HIV uses Nef to activate Rac activity in DOCK2ELMO1 complex, disrupting T cell migration and interaction with other lymphocytes. This study provides biochemical evidence for Nef's role in subverting immune response pathways controlled by receptors on T cells.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 20, 2004

Reward mechanism involved in addiction likely regulates pair bonds between monogamous animals

Research by Emory University Health Sciences Center suggests that reward mechanisms involved in addiction likely play a role in regulating pair bonds between monogamous animals. The study found that oxytocin and vasopressin receptors, critical for pair bond formation, are located in two brain regions with heavily interconnected structu...

SourceEmory University Health Sciences Center·JournalJournal of Comparative Neurology·DateJan 20, 2004

Brain reverberations during sleep

Researchers recorded neuronal firing patterns in rats during normal sleep-wake cycles and found that neural activity reappeared after novel experiences for up to 48 hours. This reverberation was enhanced during slow-wave sleep and may support a mechanism for recalling and amplifying memories.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJan 20, 2004

Novel technique may help detect certain head and neck cancers

Researchers have discovered several protein profiles that are present more commonly in patients with HNSCC than in healthy smokers or control patients, enabling accurate diagnosis. The newly developed technology could potentially lead to the development of a reliable screening test for early detection and diagnosis of HNSCC.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateJan 19, 2004

Understanding urinary tract infections

E. coli bacteria undergo four distinct developmental stages during UTIs, including a quiescent state that may create reservoirs for recurrent infections. Researchers hope to use these stages as guides for new drug development.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 19, 2004