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Science News for April 5, 2005


Study examines effectiveness of anti-anemia drug in treatment of cancer patients

A meta-analysis of 27 clinical trials found that erythropoietin treatment lowers the likelihood of needing a blood transfusion and improves hematologic response in cancer patients. However, results on overall survival are inconclusive, suggesting erythropoietin should not be used to increase survival outside clinical trials.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 5, 2005

ALLHAT study findings for racial sub-groups show diuretics work better for high blood pressure

The ALLHAT study found that diuretics are superior to calcium channel blockers and ACE inhibitors in lowering blood pressure and preventing heart failure. Diuretics were also more effective in reducing high blood pressure and stroke in black patients, supporting the use of diuretics as first-line therapy for high blood pressure

Study finds no association between diet and pancreatic cancer among men and women

A Harvard School of Public Health study analyzed dietary habits and found no strong association between western or prudent diets and pancreatic cancer risk. Participants who adhered to the prudent diet had healthier lifestyle behaviors, suggesting individual dietary components may still play a role in risk.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 5, 2005

Pairs of Seagliders set endurance records

Two UW ocean-diving gliders, Seagliders, have set a new record by traveling across the Pacific Ocean. They were deployed in September and traveled over 1,860 miles in 191 days. The gliders' autonomous technology allows them to collect oceanographic measurements without propellers, setting a precedent for the longest range of any autono...

A probe, not an echo

The USC High-resolution Ultrasonic Transmission Tomography (HUTT) system offers superior 3D images of soft tissue, outperforming existing commercial X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI units. The technology uses multi-band analysis with sub-millimeter ultrasonic transducers to create detailed images with improved resolution and precision.

Other highlights in the April 6 JNCI

A new study found that altering food schedules and light/dark exposure in mice modified the expression of circadian clock genes and genes involved in carcinogenesis and tumor progression. The authors conclude that the altered light/dark or feeding schedules may slow tumor growth in chronic jet-lagged mice.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 5, 2005

Mystery on the Hudson

The Hudson River has seen a doubling of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in the past 15 years, with possible causes including changes in river materials and bacterial metabolism. This increase may be linked to nitrogen deposition, leading to eutrophication-driven problems such as hypoxia.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateApr 5, 2005

Key regulator of bone cells linked to osteoporosis

Researchers at Yale University identified IRAK-M as a key regulator of bone cells, finding that its presence prevents bone loss and its absence leads to severe osteoporosis in mice. The study suggests IRAK-M could be a new target for treating or preventing osteoporosis.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 5, 2005

NSF renews Cornell's Arecibo contract

The National Science Board has awarded Cornell University a $70 million contract to manage the Arecibo Observatory until March 31, 2010. This renewal will enable further scientific research capabilities at the observatory, with plans to develop new instruments and expand user access.

PNAS highlights for the week of April 4 - 8

Archaeological findings reveal extensive ancient Maya salt workshops beyond royal control, while researchers investigate the role of Toll-like receptor 4 in inducing neuropathic pain. Atmospheric pollution is linked to wheat disease prevalence, and microarray technology helps diagnose skin cancer stages. Serotonin levels may regulate e...

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 2005

Study shows that a kidney transplant can reverse heart failure

A University of Maryland study found that more than 86% of dialysis patients with severe heart failure experienced improved cardiac function after a kidney transplant. The study, which followed 103 patients between 1998 and 2002, suggests that a timely transplant can significantly improve heart health for these patients.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 5, 2005