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Science News for June 22, 2004


Rapid urbanization in China warming region's climate faster than other areas

A new study by Georgia Institute of Technology researchers found that China's rapid urbanization has led to a significant increase in the region's surface temperature, with a mean rise of 0.09 degrees Fahrenheit per decade since 1979. The nighttime low temperatures have also risen faster than daytime high temperatures, resulting in an ...

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology Research News·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 22, 2004

Jefferson researchers develop microchip to track genetic signature of cancer and normal tissue

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have developed a microarray chip that can track the genetic signature of cancer and normal tissue by analyzing miRNA gene expression patterns. This technology has the potential to provide new targets for drug development and improve our understanding of cancer phenotypes.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 22, 2004

To understand innate immunity, silence the genome

Researchers Edan Foley and Patrick O'Farrell silenced over 7,000 Drosophila genes to investigate the Immune deficiency pathway, revealing new molecules involved in signaling. Their findings provide insight into complex molecular interactions underlying innate immunity.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 22, 2004

Web searchers don't tune in with radio buttons

A study analyzing 3 million records from Alta Vista in 2002 found that consumers who used the interface had fewer queries per session and used fewer terms per query. The researchers suggest that radio buttons can help with information overload, but widespread adoption is hindered by technical issues and lack of individual site use.

Inadequate vaccines can help breed more vicious malaria strains

A laboratory-based study suggests that inadequate vaccines could lead to the emergence of more virulent malaria strains, potentially making them more dangerous to non-immunized populations. The research found that immunity accelerates the evolution of virulence in malaria parasites, even after mosquito transmission.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 22, 2004

Infertility treatment affects oral health

A study suggests that women undergoing infertility treatment who have periodontal disease may experience higher levels of gingival inflammation and bleeding, which could impact the success of fertility treatments like ovulation induction medication. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to prevent these issues.

SourceAmerican Academy of Periodontology·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateJun 22, 2004