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Science News Archive 2005 - Page 130


Page 130 of 165

Wine, music and schizophrenia genes

A Rutgers scientist will use a new grant to investigate schizophrenia genes, with the goal of finding better treatments and reduced morbidity. The researcher aims to analyze genetic data using a new statistical analysis method and investigate a recently described class of genes involved in the central nervous system.

DOE provides $12 million to advance separation technologies

The Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded $12 million to the Center for Advanced Separation Technologies (CAST) at Virginia Tech to develop advanced separation technologies for efficient coal cleaning. The project aims to reduce sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions, and mercury content, while increasing domestic energy production.

New insights into skin blistering disease pop up

Scientists have made a significant breakthrough in understanding pemphigus, a deadly skin blistering disease. Researchers engineered antibodies that reproduce the disease in vitro and in mice, offering a new opportunity for targeted therapy development.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 24, 2005

Vaccine against childhood pneumonia shows promise

A recent study published in The Lancet found that a new vaccine against childhood pneumonia reduced the first episode of pneumonia diagnosed by chest x-ray by 37% and overall child mortality by 16%. The vaccine also lowered disease caused by pneumococcus bacteria types by 77%, providing promising results for global health.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 24, 2005

How HDL keeps the heart healthy

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation reveals that HDL (high-density lipoprotein) activates an enzyme called eNOS, leading to a cellular signal that depends on cholesterol efflux. The activation of eNOS is mediated by two intact domains of SR-BI, which act as 'cholesterol sensors' triggering cellular events.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 24, 2005

Trio of leukemias share a single mutation

Researchers identified a common genetic mutation, JAK2, in patients with polycythemia vera, essential thrombocythemia, and myeloid metaplasia with myelofibrosis. The study used high-throughput DNA sequencing analysis to compare blood and mouth-swab samples from 164 PV patients, 115 ET patients, and 46 MMM patients.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalCancer Cell·DateMar 24, 2005

Cancerous or harmless? Three genes might tell the tale

A new study by Ohio State University researchers may lead to a test that prevents unnecessary thyroid gland removal in people with follicular adenoma. The study identified three genes, cyclin D2, PCSK2, and PLAB, which show distinct activity levels between noncancerous and cancerous thyroid conditions.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMar 24, 2005

AGU Journal highlights - 23 March 2005

Researchers found that volcanic eruptions produce a relatively short atmospheric response with no discernible effects from the volcanic events afterward. Additionally, analysis using climate models suggests that the North Atlantic Oscillation may intensify with further increases in greenhouse gas concentrations.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 23, 2005

It's a taxing time for air travelers, researchers from MIT, Daniel Webster College discover

Researchers from MIT and Daniel Webster College found that the effective tax rate on airline tickets is steadily increasing, with passengers facing a 19% average tax on top of ticket prices. The study suggests that airlines cannot raise airfares to keep pace with inflation, while taxpayers may be subsidizing security costs.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Air Transport Management·DateMar 23, 2005

Beyond lithium for bipolar disorder

Scientists have identified several genes that appear to be switched on by lithium, which may lead to the development of more effective treatments for bipolar disorder. The study found that one gene, GPR88, is associated with a rat model of mania and codes for an orphan receptor that could potentially target dopamine signaling.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateMar 23, 2005