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Science News for February 28, 2006


Tissue engineering technique does not cause tumor growth

Researchers have successfully used a gene therapy approach to deliver telomerase, an enzyme that lengthens cell lifespan, without causing tumors in human patients. The technique allows for the growth of blood vessels in patients with vascular disease, offering new treatment options.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2006

Boston University scientists develop new application to characterize structure of DNA molecules

Researchers have developed a new application called spectral self-interference fluorescence microscopy (SSFM) that characterizes the structure of DNA molecules with sub-nanometer accuracy. Using this technique, the team estimated the shape of coiled single-stranded DNA and double-stranded DNA of different lengths.

SourceBoston University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2006

Novel function of APC

The APC tumor suppressor has a novel function in regulating Wnt signaling in the nucleus. In this new study, researchers demonstrate that APC opposes beta-catenin activity directly at Wnt target genes. The findings suggest that full-length APC protein is necessary to repress c-Myc gene expression and prevent colon cancer progression.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateFeb 28, 2006

New research forecasts better weather forecasts

A Purdue University researcher has developed a more accurate weather prediction model by incorporating the amount of moisture surface vegetation releases into the upper atmosphere. This new approach improved forecasts of storm intensity, location, and timing, leading to better severe weather predictions.

SourcePurdue University·JournalMonthly Weather Review·DateFeb 28, 2006

Surgery for child apnea leads to weight gain

A study published in Pediatrics found that children who underwent surgery for obstructive sleep-disordered breathing (OSDB) due to enlarged adenoids experienced a significant increase in excess weight, averaging 13% over 12.6 months. This weight gain may be linked to reduced motor activity and poor sleep quality after the surgery.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 28, 2006

New class of compounds promise better drugs, clean energy

A team of Brown University chemists has developed a new class of molecules that exhibit fast and efficient catalytic properties, making them suitable for use in the pharmaceutical industry. The compounds also show promise for storing hydrogen and other gases, which could be used to generate clean energy.

SourceBrown University·JournalChemical Communications·DateFeb 28, 2006

Bioengineers create stable networks of blood vessels

Researchers developed a model system for studying neuro-vascular interactions, enabling the creation of stable vascular networks that can connect with larger blood vessel structures. The approach uses a macroporous hydrogel polymer scaffold and co-seeds it with endothelial cells and nerve progenitor cells.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2006

Other highlights in the March 1 JNCI

Researchers have created a new model to examine the process by which tumor cells develop an angiogenic phenotype, enabling them to grow rapidly. The study found that non-angiogenic tumor cells can switch to angiogenesis after several months, and that this switch is crucial for tumor growth and metastasis.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 28, 2006

Delayed prostate cancer surgery poses no increased risk for some patients

A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that men with low-grade prostate cancer who receive active surveillance may not be at increased risk of noncurable prostate cancer. The study compared outcomes in men who delayed surgery for two years to those who underwent immediate treatment, finding no significant difference in risk.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 28, 2006

Software promises more efficient design process

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new approach that unifies the design and analysis processes, allowing for concurrent computation. This integration enables faster processing of complex problems in industries such as automotive and aerospace, reducing computational power required.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAdvances in Engineering Software·DateFeb 28, 2006

Elders' stereotypes predict hearing decline

A Yale University study found that older individuals' age stereotypes can predict their sensory perception, with negative and external stereotypes linked to worse hearing outcomes. The study of 546 people aged 70 and older suggested that social psychological factors, such as age stereotypes, may influence hearing decline.