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Science News Archive May 2005 - Page 12


Page 12 of 16

Excess liver gene protects against high-fat diet

A new study reveals that mice with an excess of liver X receptor (LXRa) are protected from high-fat diet-induced cholesterol and blood vessel plaques. The findings suggest that natural variation in LXRa levels can influence susceptibility to heart disease, depending on diet.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMay 10, 2005

Genetic testing divides families

A study on genetic testing in families found that individuals with a family history of disease tend to form cliques with those who test positive for a mutation. The timing of disclosure is influenced by the type of disease and perceived need to prepare, highlighting the complexities of sharing genetic information within families.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalJournal of Nursing Scholarship·DateMay 10, 2005

UQ researcher journeys to the centre of the cell

Researchers at UQ's IMB have discovered a new pathway for particle and nutrient uptake into cells, which is vitally important for cellular survival. This finding presents unexplored avenues for developing new drugs to fight certain viral infections and opening up possibilities for drug delivery or gene therapy.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateMay 10, 2005

Should the mental health evaluator decide child custody?

The authors of a recent article argue that mental health evaluators with adequate forensic training can provide valuable information to judges on custody-relevant issues. However, experts disagree on the role of these evaluations, with some suggesting they should only be used in serious cases of abuse or neglect. The symposium issue of...

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalFamily Court Review·DateMay 10, 2005

Is the vaccine industry ailing?

The vaccine industry has declined from 26 companies in 1967 to just five in 2004 due to low market demand and high production costs. Dr. Paul Offit urges legislators to protect vaccines as a vital instrument of public health and recommends financial incentives for manufacturers and healthcare professionals

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMay 10, 2005

Purdue study finds races react differently to dietary salt, calcium

Researchers at Purdue University found that African-American and Caucasian adolescent girls handle sodium and calcium differently, leading to varying rates of hypertension and osteoporosis. The study concluded that excessive salt intake reduces bone density in both races, with Caucasian girls losing more calcium through their urine.

SourcePurdue University·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateMay 10, 2005

Immune system lab model overcomes ethical limits on human hematopoietic stem cells studies

Researchers have developed a humanized mouse model that can produce functional white blood cells, allowing for studies of immune responses against cancer and infection. The model, called NOD-scid IL2Rãnull, combines characteristics of previous models to enable successful engraftment and development of an intact human immune system.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalThe Journal of Immunology·DateMay 9, 2005

Carnegie Mellon University chemists adapt casting technique to make ordered nanocarbons

Researchers used block copolymers with oil-and-water repelling blocks to create self-assembling nanostructures, which were then controlled using zone casting. This technique produces highly organized polymer films that could serve as templates for creating ordered nanopatterns in various nanoelectronic devices.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 9, 2005

Parental conflict can affect school performance

A recent study by Cardiff University suggests that frequent and poorly resolved conflicts between parents can have a negative impact on children's emotional, behavioural, and academic development. The study found that children living in such family environments are at greater risk for deficits in academic achievement.

New fat is needed to clear old fat from the system

Genetically engineered mice with a missing enzyme in their livers developed fatty liver disease when placed on a zero-fat diet. The study found that consuming new fat, which is produced in the liver or consumed in food, helps regulate fat burning and prevents liver damage.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell Metabolism·DateMay 9, 2005

Low-fat dairy may lower risk of type 2 diabetes in men

A recent study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that consuming low-fat dairy products was associated with a nine percent lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes in male participants. The researchers analyzed data from over 41,000 men and followed them for 12 years to document new cases of type 2 diabetes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateMay 9, 2005

Atorvastatin shows promise in small trial for the treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease

A small-scale trial of atorvastatin calcium found significant reductions in circulating cholesterol levels and potential benefits on cognitive function and behavior in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. The results hold promise for the treatment of AD, but further multicenter trials are needed to confirm these findings.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateMay 9, 2005

Scientists inhibit cancer gene

Scientists at the University of Utah Health have discovered an enzyme called DGK iota that appears to reduce the incidence of Ras-induced tumors in mice. The researchers found that mice with a deleted DGK iota gene developed fewer tumors, while those with an intact gene and activated Ras exhibited significantly more tumors.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 9, 2005