Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive April 2005 - Page 7


Page 7 of 14

Watching microglia at work

Microglial cells are highly dynamic, constantly sampling their environment and interacting with neurons. In response to cerebral hemorrhage, microglial cells rapidly rush to the injured site, shielding it and decomposing damaged tissue.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateApr 15, 2005

A kiss that binds

Researchers identify FMRP RNA ligands containing 'kissing complex' motifs, redirecting search for disease targets. The study also reveals a crucial link between FMRP, mRNA translation regulation and neurologic dysfunction in Fragile X syndrome.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateApr 15, 2005

The biggest family tree ever

The Genographic Project is a five-year global study of human migratory history, analyzing genetic samples from indigenous peoples and public participants. Researchers will use markers encoded into DNA to trace lineages, unveiling new aspects of family trees that persist through genes.

American Thoracic Society Journal news tips for April 2005 (second issue)

A study found that family conferences in ICUs missed opportunities to discuss withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining therapy due to clinicians' failure to listen and respond appropriately. The missed opportunities fell into three categories: listening, acknowledging emotions, and addressing medical ethics principles.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateApr 15, 2005

JCI table of contents May 1, 2005

Research reveals that nitrite is a potent inhibitor of ischemia/reperfusion injury in the liver and heart, limiting cell death and preserving organ function. Additionally, adipocyte-derived collagen VI promotes early tumor growth in breast cancer, while EBV proteins drive immune responses in multiple sclerosis.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 14, 2005

Purdue miniature cooling device will have military, computer uses

Mechanical engineers at Purdue University have created micro-channel heat sinks that can cool electronic components, enabling faster performance and better functionality. The devices are being developed to address the growing need for efficient cooling in advanced laser systems, microwave radar, and future computers.

SourcePurdue University·JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer·DateApr 14, 2005

AGU Journal highlights - 14 April 2005

Researchers reassess Martian landslides using recent images and propose alternative gravity-driven explanation. Ocean color tracking reveals 50-year dataset for phytoplankton abundance estimation. Aerosol concentrations in China's atmosphere reduce daily surface solar radiation since 1961, according to Geophysical Research Letters papers.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 14, 2005

Nitrite says NO to ischemia/reperfusion injury

Researchers found that nitrite therapy reduces cell death and preserves organ function in mouse models of I/R injury. Nitrite may serve as a therapeutic treatment for I/R disease, particularly in preventing organ dysfunction following surgery or transplantation.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 14, 2005

Pessimism and depression increase dementia risk

A study by Mayo Clinic investigators found that pessimism and depression are associated with a higher risk of dementia. The research, which analyzed data from over 3,500 individuals, suggests that personality traits may play a role in the development of cognitive impairment 30-40 years later.

Fat may affect electrical impulses in brain, heart

Researchers found that palmitate, a saturated fatty acid, can attach to proteins regulating bioelectricity in cells. This attachment affects the transmission of electrical impulses in nerve and heart cells, with potential health implications.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 14, 2005

Liverpool scientist discovers new layer of the Earth

Dr Christine Thomas has discovered a previously undetected seismic layer near the Earth's core-mantle boundary, allowing researchers to measure internal temperatures and study whole mantle convection. The new layer enables scientists to examine the fate of subducted lithosphere and hot material rising from the core-mantle boundary.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature·DateApr 14, 2005

A big fat contribution to breast tumor growth

Researchers found that collagen VI from adipocytes stimulates the proliferation and survival of malignant cells in breast tumors. The study suggests a potential link between increased adiposity and breast cancer risk, highlighting the role of extracellular matrix proteins in tumor behavior.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 14, 2005

Medical journal editors condemn ghostwriting

A recent editorial in the Journal of General Internal Medicine condemns the practice of ghostwriting in medical journals, citing issues with authorship and financial relationships. The authors highlight the need for transparency and accountability in academic publishing to maintain public trust.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateApr 14, 2005

Vitamin E loss through smoking increases health risks

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that smoking depletes vitamin E levels 13% faster than non-smokers, increasing health risks. The research also reveals an interactive relationship between vitamins C and E, highlighting the importance of adequate levels of both antioxidants to prevent disease.

SourceOregon State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateApr 14, 2005