Resistance genes discovered in ancestral tomato species
Researchers discovered Cf-4 and Cf-9 resistance genes in wild tomato species, likely retained against the fungus C. fulvum.
Science News Archive October 2004 - Page 10
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Wound healers cause skin disease
Scientists found that people with psoriasis have transit amplifying cells divide without signal, leading to rapid skin renewal and increased cell layers. This discovery may lead to new treatments for the disease, which affects 300,000 people in the Netherlands.
Support groups aid women with 'breast cancer gene mutations'
A study of supportive-expressive group therapy for women with BRCA1 or 2 gene mutations found improvements in anxiety, depression, and decision-making. The therapy helped women weigh treatment choices by exploring feelings and perspectives.
Healthy eating reduces the chance of spina bifida
Research findings suggest that a balanced diet prior to pregnancy can reduce the chance of spina bifida. Myo-inositol, zinc, and vitamin B12 supplements may also be beneficial in preventing the condition, although further research is needed to confirm this.
Slightly increased risk of Ischemic stroke found with tamoxifen
Researchers found a significant increase in ischemic stroke risk with tamoxifen, but emphasized that the absolute risk is small. The study's findings suggest careful screening of women before prescribing tamoxifen therapy due to potential stroke risk.
Genetic link to risky pregnancy
Researchers found a genetic connection between preeclampsia and the interaction between trophoblast cells and natural killer cells. The study suggests that a specific protein combination may be responsible for suppressing the NK cells' ability to stimulate vessel remodeling, leading to decreased blood flow to the fetus.
Problematic behaviour of dementing patients exacerbated
A recent study found that dementing patients' hyperactivity is worsened when care-providing family members employ a non-adaptive strategy, which includes being impatient and irritated. Adjusting this approach can help alleviate behavioural problems and improve the quality of life for both carers and patients.
Prescriptions for antibiotics to prevent anthrax uncommon after the 2001 anthrax attacks
Despite widespread concern about bioterrorism, only one in five patients who discussed anthrax with physicians received antibiotics or vaccines. Antibiotic prescription was most highly associated with patient requests and report of potential exposure.
Cow's claw benefits from cushioned floor
Joan Somers' research found that cows on straw yards had significantly healthier claws and better walking patterns than those on concrete floors. The study highlighted the importance of comfortable bedding spaces, dry stalls, balanced rations, and regular claw care in improving dairy cow welfare.
'Junk' DNA may be very valuable to embryos
Research suggests that retrotransposons, previously considered 'junk DNA', can initiate synchronous gene expression in mouse eggs and early embryos. This discovery may contribute to the reprogramming of the mammalian embryonic genome.
MRI shows brain changes underlying language deficits in autism
Researchers found that autistic boys with normal language capabilities have a typical brain organization, while those with language problems exhibit similar brain changes as non-autistic boys with Specific Language Impairment. The study supports the idea that autism and SLI are disruptions in neurodevelopment and neurobiology.
Defense provides additional $4.9 million for pathogen research tool
PathPort is a life sciences interoperability framework providing access to biological characterizations of known pathogens and their near relatives. The project aims to aid in detection, identification, and analysis of high-priority pathogens using its analytical tools and data models.
Researchers provide road map for generating B cells from stem cells
Scientists have identified four critical stages in generating B cells from stem cells, involving regulatory proteins and signaling pathways that guide the cell's development. The study paves the way for creating customized immune cells with specific functions.
Analysis of tamoxifen studies reveals slight increase of stroke risk
Researchers found a 29% increased risk of all strokes and an 82% higher risk of ischemic stroke in women taking tamoxifen, compared to controls. The absolute increase in risk was small.
Rice engineer wins prestigious Annunzio Award
Jennifer West, a renowned bioengineer, has made significant advancements in nanotechnology and tissue engineering. Her research focuses on developing novel biomaterials for vascular grafts that could eliminate the need for vein transplants.
Modifications to body contouring techniques for post-bariatric patients
Post-bariatric patients often require more extensive body contouring procedures due to permanently damaged tissue. Plastic surgeons must re-contour the entire upper and lower body trunks to achieve a successful outcome, as the skin's natural tightness is compromised.
Switch of a gene turns cancer cells healthy in mice, Stanford scientists find
Researchers found that turning off a single cancer-causing gene can eliminate aggressive liver tumors in mice within four weeks. The discovery involves manipulating the Myc protein, which drives cancer cell division, and has potential applications for treating common types of cancer.
Insulin resistance in teens raises high blood pressure risk as adults
A large study found that teenagers with insulin resistance are at a higher risk of developing high blood pressure as adults. Insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes, was linked to increased systolic blood pressure and obesity in the long-term study.
Sunday, Oct. 10 news tips
African-American communities benefit from education programs that lower blood pressure readings. Researchers also found that changing sleeping positions can alter blood pressure, with stomach-lying positions leading to a significant drop in systolic blood pressure. Furthermore, impaired kidney function significantly increases the risk ...
Protein protecting brain from toxins also blocks some chemotherapy from reaching tumors
A study by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that the protein Mrp4 limits penetration of topotecan into the brain, which could improve treatment for brain cancer. Over-expression of Mrp4 in tumors contributes to topotecan resistance in patients.
Botox could play a key role in pain control during breast reconstruction
A study presented at the American Society of Plastic Surgeons annual scientific meeting found that Botox injections significantly decreased muscle spasms and pain after breast reconstruction with tissue expanders. Patients who received Botox used 89% less morphine and had shorter hospital stays compared to those in the control group.
Plastic surgeons honor 'Patients of Courage' overcoming difficult obstacles, inspiring others
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons recognizes five 'Patients of Courage' who have overcome incredible obstacles, inspiring others to do the same. Through their stories, these individuals demonstrate the potential strength within us all.
Saturday, Oct. 9 news tips
Researchers warn of potential cardiovascular risks associated with the use of modafinil, a new alertness medication. A low-salt diet has also been shown to protect arteries in people with resistant hypertension, according to the study.
Barbed sutures, wrinkle fillers give patients more innovative, non-surgical options
Barbed sutures enable minimally invasive facial rejuvenation with limited downtime, while ultrasonic body contouring provides liposuction-like results without pain or recovery time. Wrinkle fillers like Restylane and Sculptra are expected to skyrocket in demand due to their effectiveness.
Mayo Clinic research shows common airborne fungi cause chronic stuffy nose
Researchers found that certain species of airborne fungus trigger abnormal immune responses, leading to congestion and inflammation in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. The study suggests that reducing fungal exposure through treatments like nasal irrigations or antifungal medicines could provide relief.
Lithium may protect neurons from radiation therapy
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center discovered that lithium can protect brain cells involved in learning and memory from radiation damage. Clinical trials are expected to test whether the drug can prevent cognitive deficits in humans treated with cranial radiation therapy.
New Jersey Institute of Technology professor to develop supersized virtual library
A supersized virtual library is being developed by a team led by New Jersey Institute of Technology professor Michael Bieber, PhD. The library will consolidate reference listings from public, university and online digital libraries, providing users with customized search results and automatic link additions.
Pioneering spirit wins UH geophysics professor kudos at international meeting
Fred Hilterman, a UH geophysics professor, is being honored with the Cecil Green Enterprise Award for his innovations and dedication in advancing geosciences. He co-founded the Geophysical Development Corporation (GDC), which integrated petrophysical and seismic data, and developed AVO technology to determine the earth's composition.
Children's Hospital Boston wins $2.5 million in health surveillance grants
The hospital will test a scheme to improve flu control using secure electronic health records and public-health information systems. Dr. Kenneth Mandl and Dr. Aneel Advani will lead projects to develop an automated call center for large-scale epidemiologic investigations during outbreaks.
Why do African-American women have more pregnancy problems?
Researchers at the University of Michigan are collaborating on a three-year project to address racial disparities in pregnancy outcomes. The study aims to develop more comprehensive and coordinated prenatal care strategies, as well as evaluate the role of leadership, providers, and patients in improving health equity.
Foundation to honor physicians and community health initiatives around the world
The CHEST Foundation recognizes medical professionals for their outstanding community service and patient care projects, supporting lung health in 11 countries. Grant money is used to bring primary medical services to vulnerable populations.
Study describes basic mechanism in cell growth control involving damaged DNA
Scientists at UNC have discovered a basic mechanism in cell growth control involving damaged DNA, pointing to a potential target for drug development. The study found that the cellular enzyme family Cullin4 plays a crucial role in preventing replication of damaged genomic material.
Type of hormone therapy may affect heart attack severity
A study found that hormone therapy can limit heart muscle damage to 5% or cause permanent damage to 35%. Researchers are exploring how estrogen alone and other anti-inflammatory treatments may impact muscle damage. The study suggests different hormone therapies may have varying effects on postmenopausal women.
Soy could be good for the heart and bones of premenopausal women
Two studies found that soy-based diets improved cholesterol levels and increased bone mass in monkeys, suggesting a potential benefit for premenopausal women. The research suggests that soy may provide a potent protection against cardiovascular disease and could help maintain bone health after menopause.
Emory chemists develop bacteria that may help decaffeinate coffee
Researchers couple bacterial life with theophylline production, which breaks down caffeine slowly in plants. The goal is to create coffee plants low in caffeine using these engineered bacteria.
SourceEmory University Health Sciences Center·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 8, 2004
Study lays down genetic basis for sinus disease and nasal polyps
A three-year analysis of over 10,500 genes reveals a host of interesting leads on which genes may play a role in controlling sinusitis and nasal polyps. The study found that 192 genes were up-regulated and 156 were down-regulated in diseased tissue samples.
Animal research suggests benefits of low-dose estrogen therapy
A new study suggests that low-dose estrogen therapy may be as effective as traditional doses in reducing atherosclerosis and improving cardiovascular health. Monkeys treated with low-dose estrogen had 55% less atherosclerosis than those not receiving the therapy.
Chronic sinusitis sufferers have enhanced immune responses to fungi
Chronic sinusitis sufferers exhibit abnormal immune responses to harmless fungal spores, releasing cytokines that can cause persistent inflammation. This study provides a possible immunologic basis for the condition and supports antifungal therapy as a potential treatment option.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateOct 8, 2004
International MRC trial finds a routine treatment for head injury may do more harm than good
The MRC CRASH* trial found that giving patients corticosteroids after a head injury increased the risk of death within two weeks, with 21% of those treated dying compared to 18% on placebo. The trial involved over 10,000 patients from nearly 50 countries and challenges previous studies' findings.
New technique targets pesticide-resistant insects
A new technique targeting pesticide-resistant insects has shown effectiveness in trials against the cotton bollworm, silverleaf whitefly, and diamondback moth. The method uses micro-encapsulated formulations to deliver an enzyme inhibitor and a pesticide, providing a double-blow effect.
Eight New Hartford doctoral fellows in Geriatric Social Work selected
The eight Hartford Fellows will conduct research on various issues in geriatric social work, including depression, end-of-life care, and aging. The program aims to cultivate the next generation of geriatric social work faculty who will improve care for older adults and their families.
Mentally ill have higher odds of developing brain, lung cancers
A recent study found that individuals with mental illness are at a higher risk of developing brain and lung cancers. The research, supported by the American Cancer Society and National Institute of Mental Health, suggests that people with mental health problems smoke more than the general population.
Under the surface, the brain seethes with undiscovered activity
Researchers found neural patterns in adult ferrets' visual cortex correlated with images viewed, but not in young ferrets. Adult ferret brains showed 80% processing activity even in darkness, suggesting the basis of comprehending vision may differ in young and old brains.
Smoking and the risk of rheumatoid arthritis
A Swedish study reveals that smoking substantially raises the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, particularly in individuals with the shared epitope gene. The research, published in Arthritis & Rheumatism, found a significant interaction between smoking and the SE gene, increasing the disease risk to 7.5 times.
Going from a 'Web of links' to a 'Web of meaning' could be a matter of semantics
Researchers aim to create a 'web of meaning' by developing languages and tools that make it easier for computers to understand web pages. By distributing ontologies, search engines can achieve more accurate and relevant results, especially in areas with no standard rules of searching.
Health and politics: Lessons learned from the Iraq conflict
The US-led humanitarian relief effort in Iraq was plagued by mismanagement, with the Department of Defense dominating the effort. The Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance and other agencies had more experience handling crises, but were overlooked. The study highlights the importance of separating military and humanitarian assistance.
Is more better: Counting birds may only tell part of the story
Researchers found that bird abundance and reproductive success are often disconnected, with some species adapting to human disturbances and others facing declines. The study suggests that using bird counts alone may not accurately reflect habitat quality.
Report: How 10 top new technologies will help world reach globally-agreed goals by 2015
A new report highlights the potential of biotechnologies in improving health in developing countries. The report proposes a global institute to share and promote the benefits of genomic sciences, aiming to save tens of millions of lives per year.
Association of American Railroads selects Virginia Tech to host new research lab
Virginia Tech has been selected by the Association of American Railroads (AAR) to host a new research lab focused on improving railroad safety, productivity, and efficiency. The lab will be established with an annual grant of $200,000 and is expected to foster closer ties between the university and the railroad industry.
Illinois to play lead role in project to preserve digital information
The University of Illinois will develop criteria for selecting digital material for capture and preservation, exploring ways for libraries and repositories to share and preserve digital resources. The project aims to identify methods and technologies that will help avoid losing information of significant historical value.
Breathing problems during sleep may affect mental development in infants and young children
Infants with breathing pauses or slow heart rates during sleep scored lower on mental development tests at one year of age. Children with frequent snoring, loud breathing, or sleep apneas also performed worse on intelligence, memory, and behavior tests.
Sedentary overweight people get insulin boost from short term exercise; CVD risks trend down
Researchers found that six days of moderate-intensity exercise improved insulin action in sedentary, overweight individuals by 40%, while traditional and novel cardiovascular risk factors showed positive trends. In contrast, those who consumed sports drinks and additional food during exercise showed no significant changes or even negat...
Glue-like polymer could replace sutures used for cataract surgery
A new hydrogel adhesive has shown promise in replacing sutures used for cataract surgery, demonstrating ease of use and reduced risk of complications. The transparent gel, similar to liquid bandages, could also be used to repair eye wounds associated with LASIK surgery and other conditions.
New risks for bladder cancer identified by MIT team
A team of researchers from MIT has identified three new carcinogens found in cigarette smoke as risk factors for bladder cancer in nonsmokers. The study, led by Professor Steven R. Tannenbaum, aimed to identify sources of exposure for non-smokers and highlights the importance of preventing cancer rather than treating it.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateOct 7, 2004
U-M scientists see ubiquitin-modified proteins in living cells
Researchers at U-M used a technology called ubiquitin-mediated fluorescence complementation to study a cell-signaling mechanism. They discovered how ubiquitin modified protein Jun's function and location, and found that an E3 ligase binding enzyme called Itch played a key role in this process.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 7, 2004
Embryonic stem cells correct congenital heart defect in mouse embryos
Researchers used embryonic stem cells to rescue congenital heart defects in mice by releasing signals that corrected neighboring heart cells. The study found a critical role of the Id protein and two signaling molecules, IGF-I and WNT5a, in this process.
US Agency for International Development awards $34 million to Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech will lead two research projects worth $17 million each, focusing on integrated pest management and sustainable agriculture in developing nations. The projects aim to reduce pesticide use, increase farm income, and promote ecologically sound practices for improved food security.
New ASU research reveals the dynamic inner workings of Earth
A team of seismologists at Arizona State University has discovered a highly active region beneath Earth's surface, where the mantle meets the liquid iron core. The study found unusual layering in the deep interior, which may hold clues about how the interior churns and convects.
Vioxx: An unequal partnership between safety and efficacy
The article discusses the importance of rigorous data collection and review in drug development, citing the Vioxx case as a prime example. Pharmaceutical companies must also learn from their mistakes, and regulatory agencies must reassess safety and efficacy thresholds to prevent patient harm.
Toward a better understanding of taste and smell impairments
A multidisciplinary team is investigating the impact of inflammation on taste and smell function, with potential therapeutic interventions for chemosensory dysfunction. The studies aim to improve diagnosis and treatment targeting for patients with conditions like chronic rhinosinusitis and radiation-induced taste loss.