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Science News Archive April 2006 - Page 4


Page 4 of 15

University of Utah to help build bionic arm

The University of Utah is working on a bionic arm that can move naturally in response to thoughts and allow users to feel sensations, with the goal of restoring the capability of amputees. Researchers will develop a peripheral nerve interface device that relays signals from nerves to the artificial limb.

Ads for unhealthy foods may explain link between television viewing and overweight in children

A recent study suggests that TV viewing is associated with an increase in calorie intake in children, particularly for unhealthy foods advertised on screen. The research found that each additional hour of TV viewing resulted in a total energy increase of 167 calories, mostly due to increased consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateApr 21, 2006

Fertility drugs given 'all-clear' in new study

A new study examining 911 babies treated with either letrozole or clomiphene citrate found no statistically significant difference in major and minor malformations or chromosomal abnormalities between the two groups. The findings confirm concerns about a link between letrozole and birth defects are unfounded.

SourceMcGill University·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateApr 20, 2006

Dynamic duo: Combination therapy reverses type 1 diabetes

Researchers found a synergistic combination of a low-dose CD3 antibody and proinsulin peptide to reverse recent-onset type 1 diabetes in mice, promoting pancreatic beta cell regeneration. This approach may hold great potential for the treatment of individuals with recent-onset type 1 diabetes.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 20, 2006

Laos – a lost world for frogs

A recent study documents six new frog species found in Laos over a two-year period, showcasing the country's remarkable biodiversity. Conservationists are concerned about the combined loss of forest cover and over-exploitation of species threatening much of Laos' wildlife.

JCI table of contents, April 20, 2006

Researchers develop a combination therapy that reverses recent-onset type 1 diabetes in mice by inducing regulatory T cells to shield insulin-producing cells from autoimmune destruction. The therapy, which combines an oral and intranasal treatment, shows greater efficacy than individual treatments alone.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 20, 2006

Pituitary hormone implicated in bone loss after menopause

Researchers find that high FSH levels are necessary for bone loss in postmenopausal women, suggesting an alternative approach to prevent osteoporosis. The study reveals a direct link between pituitary-derived hormones and bone remodeling, revising the understanding of pituitary hormone physiology.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateApr 20, 2006

Bullying keeps overweight kids off the field

A new study by University of Florida researchers found that bullying among overweight children is linked to lower rates of physical activity and depression. The study suggests that positive support from family and friends can help mitigate the negative effects of bullying on exercise habits.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalJournal of Pediatric Psychology·DateApr 20, 2006