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Science News Archive September 2005 - Page 8


Page 8 of 15

Researchers discover how compounds prevent viruses from entering cells

Researchers have discovered how defensins and mannan-binding lectin can prevent viruses from entering cells. Defensins block the influenza virus entry into cells by preventing membrane fusion, while mannan-binding lectin works in a similar way. These findings may lead to new strategies for preventing viral diseases.

AGU journal highlights - 15 September 2005

Research suggests climate change will lead to decreased air quality in Texas and the western U.S., while the Midwest is predicted to receive more rain, which could help reduce ozone levels. Satellite data also reveals the temperature of Earth's ring current, with plasma ion temperatures consistent with in situ measurements.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateSep 15, 2005

Scans may help pin down tricky diagnosis

A new study suggests that scintigraphy using radioactive isotope (99mTc-DPD) can help distinguish between hereditary and acquired forms of cardiac amyloidosis, two conditions with different treatment options. The test shows promise in reducing misdiagnosis and improving patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateSep 15, 2005

Staying alert during class: Self-applied acupressure may reduce sleepiness

A study by University of Michigan Health System researchers found that students who applied self-applied acupressure treatments to stimulation points on their legs, feet, hands and heads showed a statistically significant reduction in sleepiness compared to those who only relaxed. This discovery could have implications for improving al...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine·DateSep 15, 2005

Rice researchers gain new insight into nanoscale optics

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a simple geometry where light behaves exactly as electrons do in these systems. This finding has the potential to create nanoscale antennae that convert light into broadband electrical signals, increasing data transmission capabilities by 1 million times.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 14, 2005

Disrupting cocaine-memories to battle addiction

Researchers successfully disrupted cocaine memories to battle addiction, utilizing anti-sense DNA treatment that blocked gene activation. This approach may provide a powerful and novel method to diminish the impact of drug cues, thereby reducing relapse rates.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateSep 14, 2005

Men who lose social status much more likely to suffer depression than women

A study by Newcastle University found that men who experience a downward social shift are four times more likely to suffer depression, whereas women in the same position show no significant difference. The researchers suggest that this disparity may be due to differences in how men and women derive self-esteem and fulfillment.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateSep 14, 2005

Black hole in search of a home

Astronomers detect unusual quasar with no visible host galaxy, sparking debate about its origin. The object's properties suggest a rare collision between galaxies, potentially illuminating the formation of massive black holes and their role in shaping the universe.

APS physics tip sheet #53

New research from Rice University suggests the immune system's mild inefficiency may lead to autoimmune diseases, as its mechanisms for developing antibodies could also attack healthy cells. Ancient neutrinos created in the early universe may provide evidence for or against string theory and quantum loop gravity.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 14, 2005