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Science News for October 21, 2004


Aiding decision making for Baby Charlotte and Baby Luke

The Lancet editorial emphasizes the need for a more compassionate approach to end-of-life medical decisions, particularly in cases where parents and doctors disagree. The article advocates for arbitration as an alternative to court proceedings, citing its potential to resolve conflicts in a more constructive manner.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 21, 2004

Researchers monitor progression of Parkinson's disease by studying molecular changes in brain

A study by Johannes Schwarz and colleagues tracked molecular changes in brains of Parkinson's patients over 7.5 years using SPECT to measure dopamine transporter binding, revealing a single exponential decline rather than linear loss. This advancement enables the development of individualized treatment for advanced Parkinson's patients.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateOct 21, 2004

Clues to improving TB treatment

Researchers have discovered a way to disable TB protein when it binds to certain molecules, making bacteria more sensitive to treatment by ethionamide. This finding suggests that combining ethionamide with benzylacetone could reduce the dosage of potent antibacterial compounds and improve TB treatment.

SourceCell Press·JournalMolecular Cell·DateOct 21, 2004

New fiber optic sensors increase range

Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed new fiber optic sensors using UV-induced intrinsic Fabry-Perot interferometers, increasing the range and enabling real-time monitoring of large areas. The technology has the potential to create a nationwide network of sensors for infrastructure monitoring with improved multiplexing capability.