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Science News for July 1, 2004


Physicists reveal flaw in EU Constitution

Karol Zyczkowski and Wojciech Slomczynski found that citizens in different EU countries will have unequal influence on Council of Ministers decisions. They propose a fairer solution called the Jagiellonian Compromise, where voting power is proportional to population, giving smaller states equal weight.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysics World·DateJul 1, 2004

Cancer patient, heal thyself

Researchers have discovered a potential immunotherapy strategy for cancer treatment by reactivating specific memory T cell subsets from cancer patients. These activated cells effectively recognize and reject xenotransplanted autologous tumors, reducing tumor size in mice.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 1, 2004

Origins of blood vessel cells

Researchers from Indiana University have identified adult type stem cells that can be grown in large quantities and easily modified with genes. These endothelial progenitor cells show promise as a new gene therapy tool for treating circulatory problems, such as diabetes-related amputations and heart attack repair.

SourceIndiana University·JournalBlood·DateJul 1, 2004

Microscopy scans show how brain cells process energy

A laser-based microscopy technique has confirmed and redefined the controversial 'astrocyte-neuron lactate shuttle' hypothesis for brain energy metabolism. The study reveals that neurons and astrocytes interact to burn oxygen and glucose, with astrocytes providing lactate fuel after glucose is converted from the bloodstream.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateJul 1, 2004

PAF-way to bone loss

The absence of platelet-activating factor receptor in mice with induced menopause leads to improved bone mineral density and volume. Osteoclasts are responsible for PAF's mechanism of action, and inhibiting PAF receptor function reduces bone resorption.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 1, 2004

Investigating digital images

Farid's algorithm uses statistical clues to detect tampering in digital images, making it harder for people to manipulate photos. The technology has the potential to prevent fake photos from influencing public opinion and trust, especially in news reports.

A new twist on fiber optics

Researchers have developed spiraling glass fibers that impart a chiral character to light by polarizing photons. These fibers can be used as sensors for pressure, temperature, torque, and chemical composition, while also enabling the manipulation of polarized light in various applications.

JCI table of contents, 1 July 2004

A new mouse model study identifies the connection between maternal immune activation and reproductive hormone secretion systems, linking them to pregnancy loss. The researchers found that an inflammatory response caused by activated CD40 receptor led to embryo resorption due to decreased progesterone levels.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 1, 2004

American Thoracic Society Journal news tips for July 2004 (first issue)

A new study found that almost 60% of children with asthma during the pre-pubertal period continue to experience wheezing episodes after the onset of puberty. Obesity at age 11 was also associated with a threefold increased risk for persistence of asthma, according to researchers analyzing data from a longitudinal birth cohort.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJul 1, 2004

A pregnant pause for unexpected interactions

A new mouse model reveals that early pregnancy loss is triggered by the immune system's interference with reproductive hormones, specifically progesterone. This finding may contribute to human infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss, providing a potential target for therapy.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 1, 2004

HIV/AIDS issue: July 3, 2004

The Lancet discusses new design changes to the journal, including open-access policies and electronic document posting. The article also explores various HIV/AIDS strategies for developing countries, including expanded access to treatment and prevention efforts. Researchers emphasize the importance of local solutions and community-led ...

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 1, 2004

The key to cell motility

Scientists Gary Bokoch and colleagues discovered the mechanism by which Rac is released from RhoGDI, revealing a critical role for p21-activated kinase (Pak) in regulating cell motility. This breakthrough offers insights into tumor growth, immune responses, and neurological diseases.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 1, 2004

July 2004 Ophthalmology journal

The American Academy of Ophthalmology published significant studies in the July 2004 issue, shedding light on innovative treatments and technologies for various eye conditions. These groundbreaking findings have the potential to transform the field of ophthalmology and improve patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateJul 1, 2004