Stanford's George Papanicolaou selected speaker for the John von Neumann Lecture
Dr. George Papanicolaou was chosen for his significant contributions to mathematics and its applications, including imaging in random media and financial mathematics.
Science News Archive July 2006
Page 7 of 13
Sustainable chemistry: Implementing the research & innovation agenda for Europe
The Implementation Action Plan (IAP) outlines key activities for sustainable chemistry, focusing on bio-based economy, energy, and more. The plan aims to realise visionary projects and create a supportive environment for innovation and research.
Genetic variation linked to age-related macular degeneration
A genetic variation in the CFH gene is associated with an increased risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The study found that individuals with the mutation had a 48% cumulative risk of developing late AMD by age 95, while those without it had a lower risk.
Study identifies new role for breast cancer susceptibility gene
A study has identified a new role for the breast cancer susceptibility gene BRCA1 in regulating intercellular signaling and tumor suppression. Researchers found that BRCA1 promotes survival of neighboring blood vessel cells and formation of capillary-like structures, contributing to accelerated tumor growth.
Protein-coated dental implants could improve bone regeneration
Researchers have found that protein-coated dental implants can induce bone formation and promote tissue regeneration. In laboratory tests, the protein-induced bone growth nearly completely regenerates lost tissue around teeth.
Animation can be outlet for victimized children, a tool for research
A new program called Clover allows children to create animated vignettes about their personal stories, teaching empathy in teachers. Research shows that most pre-service teachers lack empathy for victimized students, highlighting the need for training.
Freedom to choose won't make you happier
A study by Cornell and University of Chicago researchers reveals that personal responsibility, not the ability to make choices, determines satisfaction. When options are similar or unclear, choosing doesn't lead to increased happiness.
Being overweight as a teen associated with premature death in adulthood
A new Harvard study reveals that being overweight as a teenager is associated with an increased risk of premature death in younger and middle-aged women. The research found that even moderately overweight adolescents faced a higher risk of mortality.
Online surveys are less effective than phone surveys
Research suggests that online surveys can yield different results compared to phone surveys, as typing and speaking activate distinct cognitive and motor systems. This can compromise the validity of attitude changes over time, making it crucial for researchers to match response modes.
Scientists coax nerve fibers to regrow after spinal cord injury
Researchers at Johns Hopkins and the University of Michigan have developed a treatment that helps spinal cord nerves regrow after injury. Using an enzyme called sialidase, they increased the number of new nerve fibers in injured rats by more than twice, compared to untreated controls.
Carnegie Mellon, Pitt receive $15 million from NSF to found center to improve quality of life
The Quality of Life Technology Engineering Research Center aims to develop technologies that enable older adults and people with disabilities to live independently and productively. Researchers will create intelligent systems that monitor health, prompt memories, and control household appliances.
Research reveals tobacco company's role in China's cigarette smuggling crisis
New research shows that British American Tobacco (BAT) has been complicit in China's cigarette smuggling crisis, benefiting from illicit trade. BAT's internal documents show the company has restructured operations to control and expand contraband trade across Asia.
Molecular DNA switch found to be the same for all life
Researchers have identified a common molecular machinery for initiating DNA replication in all three domains of life: Archaea, Bacteria, and Eukarya. This finding suggests that DNA replication is an ancient event that evolved millions of years ago.
UF scientists reverse muscle contractions in mouse model of muscular dystrophy
Researchers used gene therapy to eliminate disabling muscle contractions in a mouse model of the most common form of adult-onset muscular dystrophy. The approach corrected myotonia, or muscle hyperexcitability, and eliminated muscle contractions as early as four weeks after injection.
Study supports 'urgent' need for worldwide ban on lead-based paint
A study by University of Cincinnati researchers found that over 75% of consumer paints in India, Malaysia, and China had dangerously high lead levels, exceeding U.S. regulations. The team calls for an urgent worldwide ban on lead-based paint to prevent future public health problems.
RFID chips could help surgeons avoid leaving sponges in patients, Stanford researcher finds
Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have developed a system using RFID tags to track surgical sponges during procedures. This technology has shown promise in accurately locating inserted sponges in under three seconds, reducing the risk of foreign objects being left in patients' bodies.
Medication plus behavior changes helps obese adolescents lose weight
A study found that adding medication to behavior therapy significantly improves weight loss and reduces disease risk factors in obese adolescents. The treatment group lost an average of 14 pounds, while the control group gained four pounds, with notable improvements in triglyceride levels and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol.
Mitral valve surgery may be safe option for elderly patients
Researchers found that the death rate from mitral valve surgery decreased dramatically among elderly patients, with five-year survival rates of 91-97% for different age groups. The study also showed improved feasibility and benefits of correcting a leaking mitral valve in older patients.
OHSU Cancer Institute researchers use shortcut to identify new treatment target for leukemia
Using mass spectrometry, researchers identified three activating mutations of the tyrosine kinase JAK3 in AML cells, leading to a potential new treatment target. The study's fast and affordable approach could help analyze cancer cells for mutations in just weeks.
Nutritional knowledge improves lunch lady image
A Penn State study found that providing nutritional information at the point of service increases student satisfaction with food quality, but not ambiance or cost. The researchers also noted that students who were more empowered to make informed choices had higher ratings for service personnel.
Effects of nutrition on learning
A study published in PLOS Biology found that zebra finch siblings reared on lower-quality diets showed improved growth rates after switching to a normal diet, but at the cost of impaired learning performance. Compensatory growth, rather than diet quality itself, was linked to poor cognitive ability in adulthood.
Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet, July 18, 2006
A study of female nurses found that a higher body mass index at age 18 was associated with greater risk for death than a normal BMI. Meanwhile, severely obese adolescents who received diet drug sibutramine along with behavior therapy lost an average of 14 pounds and improved heart risk factors.
MIT creates fiber webs that see
Researchers at MIT developed mesh-like webs of light-detecting fibers, measuring direction, intensity, and phase of light without lenses or filters. The fiber constructs can generate rough images of objects, providing a new approach to situational awareness and interactive technology.
Discovery of agile molecular motors could aid in treating motor neuron diseases
The discovery of agile molecular motors could lead to better ways to treat motor neuron diseases, which destroy motor neurons and control voluntary muscles. The proteins, dynein and dynactin, are able to move back and forth along a microtubule, providing the necessary maneuvering ability for effective long distance transport.
High altitude broadband is the platform for the future
The CAPANINA project demonstrates how wireless and optical communications can be relayed from high-altitude platforms (HAPs) to bring low-cost broadband connections to remote areas. The system promises data rates 2,000 times faster than traditional modems, with applications ranging from disaster management to environmental monitoring.
Mutations point the way to new leukemia drugs
Researchers discovered a mutation in the MPL gene that activates the JAK-STAT pathway, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and leukemia. The new finding offers potential targets for drugs targeting the JAK-STAT pathway, which may be effective against leukemias caused by either the MPL or JAK2 mutations.
Scientists isolate leukemia stem cells in a model of human leukemia
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute isolated leukemia stem cells from a mouse model, showing they are surprisingly different from normal blood stem cells. This finding may lead to the development of drugs that selectively target these cells, which could improve treatment outcomes for leukemia patients.
$1.4 million grant helps professor see the light
Rick Cote, a professor of biochemistry and molecular biology at UNH, has received a $1.4 million grant from the NIH to study the central enzyme that controls initial steps of vision. His research aims to understand how genetic or environmental defects in the visual pathway can cause vision loss or total blindness.
Sticks and stones: Teenage ridicule has lasting effects on consumer behavior
Teenage ridicule influences brand consciousness and consumer socialization, with kids learning to avoid expensive brands for acceptance. Mandatory school uniforms may reduce these pressures, supporting Wooten's policy proposal.
Decline in concentration, decision-making and problem-solving
A new Mayo Clinic study finds that executive function, including concentration, decision-making, and higher-order problem solving, deteriorates after memory decline in Alzheimer's disease progression. This decline can cause people to become more impaired in daily activities.
Diabetes drug shows promise in treating Alzheimer's
Research suggests that pioglitazone HCl may reduce Alzheimer's progression by decreasing the body's inflammatory reaction to amyloid plaque, a toxic component of the disease. The study showed promising results without serious side effects.
Take steps to protect against shoulder fired missiles, say operations research experts
Experts suggest airlines take preventative steps to protect against shoulder-fired missile attacks, which could have a significant economic impact of up to $250 billion. The cost-benefit analysis is crucial in making informed decisions about countermeasures.
Gatekeeping: Penn researchers find new way to open ion channels in cell membranes
Researchers at University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have found a new way to open ion channels in cell membranes by using an enzyme found in brown recluse spider venom. This discovery introduces a new paradigm for understanding the gating of ion channels and lays the groundwork for designing new drugs to control ion-channel act...
Anxious adults judge facial cues faster, but less accurately
A new study reveals that highly anxious individuals can quickly detect changes in facial expressions, but often misinterpret their emotional meaning. This heightened sensitivity can perpetuate a cycle of conflict and misunderstanding in personal relationships.
Number of indoor swimming pools per capita linked to rise in childhood asthma across Europe
Research found a strong association between indoor swimming pool availability and childhood asthma rates across Europe. The study of 190,000 young teenagers from 21 countries showed a 2-3% rise in wheezing and asthma for every indoor pool per 100,000 population.
Couch potatoes who start exercising after 40 can still stave off heart disease
A small study found that starting exercise after 40 can significantly cut the chances of developing coronary artery disease. Those who exercised throughout their lives had the lowest risks, but those who started later were still around 55% less likely to be diagnosed with heart disease.
Routine HIV testing widely supported in Botswana
A cross-sectional study of 1,268 adults in Botswana found that routine HIV testing is widely accepted and may reduce barriers to testing. The authors emphasize the importance of informed consent and human rights safeguards to protect individuals from discrimination and violence related to testing.
You argue when you care
A new study from the Journal of Consumer Research explains why loyal customers get defensive when their brands are criticized. Highly committed consumers produce more counterarguments in response to criticism as a way to reduce cognitive discomfort and negative arousal.
Study compares gastric bypass and gastric banding surgeries in extremely obese patients
A study comparing gastric bypass and gastric banding surgeries found that bypass procedures had lower complication rates, greater weight loss, and higher patient satisfaction. Gastric bypass also reduced obesity-related diseases such as hypertension and diabetes more effectively.
ISU researchers test combustion for NASA
Researchers at Iowa State University are testing combustion for NASA using a new technology called electric particulate suspension. The goal is to understand how powders burn and ignite under various conditions, which could lead to improved fire safety and the development of a new safety standard.
Study compares treatments for chronic plaque psoriasis
A randomized, double-blind trial found PUVA therapy to be more effective than NB-UVB in treating moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. Patients treated with PUVA achieved skin clearance in a significantly shorter number of treatments and had a higher rate of sustained clearance.
OHSU surgeons challenge age-old practice
Researchers at OHSU are testing a new device called the U-plate to aid in repairing broken ribs. The study aims to identify individuals who benefit most from surgical repair versus nonsurgical therapy.
Melanoma may be over-diagnosed
Researchers have defined normal melanocyte numbers in sun-exposed skin, distinguishing sun damage from early melanoma. This finding allows for less tissue removal and trauma to the skin.
Structure determined for p53 tumor suppressor protein as bound to DNA for anti-cancer activity
Researchers at The Wistar Institute successfully determined the three-dimensional structure of the p53 protein bound as a dimer to DNA, revealing new insights into its anti-cancer activity. The study's findings suggest that the interface between the two proteins in the dimer is crucial for proper functioning and binding to DNA.
Study: Elders with dementia can tap into memory stores to give advice
Researchers found that older adults with moderate to severe dementia can provide coherent and informative advice on topics like marriage, children, and church. The ability to offer advice is preserved even as memory and focus decline, suggesting that knowledge accumulated in younger years remains intact.
What does it take to maintain a normal body weight?
Individuals who maintain a normal weight without a history of obesity exhibit consistent behaviors, such as limiting fast food consumption and sustaining high levels of physical activity. In contrast, those who struggle to maintain their weight report a lack of consistency in their lifestyle habits.
MRIs show drug treatment slows brain deterioration on road to Alzheimer's disease
A new study using MRI scans has found that the drug donepezil slows brain deterioration in patients with mild cognitive impairment, a condition on the road to Alzheimer's disease. The treatment showed a positive effect on patients who carried the APOE 4 allele, which increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's.
Illicit trade led to modern globalization
A study by Emily Erikson and Peter Bearman found that private trade using company resources in the East India Trading Company contributed to the emergence of modern capitalist markets. The researchers analyzed data from 4,572 voyages between 1601 and 1833, revealing how captains and seamen used their cargo holds to sustain illicit trad...
Scientists discover why cornea is transparent and free of blood vessels, allowing vision
Researchers identify VEGFR-3 as a key factor in preventing blood vessel growth in the cornea. The protein acts as a sink to neutralize growth factors, maintaining a blood-vessel-free cornea essential for clear vision. This discovery holds promise for treating eye disease and cancer.
Radio wand may help detect sponges left in surgery patients
A handheld radio wand scanning device was tested on eight surgery patients and detected all tagged sponges with 100% accuracy. The device improved patient safety by reducing the risk of retained foreign objects, but human error remains a concern.
Combined treatment extends life expectancy for lung cancer patients
Researchers found combining thermal ablation with radiation therapy increases median survival rate to 42 months in non-small-cell lung cancer patients. Recurrence rates were lower, with 24% of patients experiencing recurrence at 44 months.
US trumps Europe in public funding for cancer research
A survey found that public funding for cancer research is inadequate in Europe, with an average of €2.56 per person spent compared to $17.63 in the US. The US spends four times as much on cancer research as a percentage of GDP.
Unsure what to order? Study finds that decisions are easier when everything is priced the same
Research finds that parity pricing increases the likelihood of customers ordering dessert when unsure what to choose. Differential pricing can both help and hinder decision-making depending on consumer preferences.
JRRD tipsheet: Focus on spinal cord injury, gait, stroke, power mobility and more
The JRRD tipsheet focuses on the latest research and best practices for managing spinal cord injury, gait disorders, stroke recovery, and power mobility. Studies investigate functional electrical stimulation for controlling seated posture, terrain's impact on gait characteristics, and the effect of restricted spinal motion on gait.
New strategy rapidly identifies cancer targets
Researchers developed a new strategy to identify genetic mutations that drive cancerous growth by analyzing proteins instead of genes. This approach allows for rapid identification of molecular abnormalities vulnerable to specific drug treatments, enabling personalized medicine and potential targeted therapies.
Researchers uncover genetic clues to a common form of age-related dementia
A study found that alterations in the glucocerebrosidase (GBA) gene contribute to dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), a common neurodegenerative disease. Researchers sequenced DNA from autopsy samples and identified mutations in the GBA gene in nearly 40% of DLB patients.
Lung diseases represent major costs for society
COPD and asthma are major economic burdens on Swedish society, with annual costs totaling SEK 9.1 billion and SEK 3.7 billion respectively. These lung diseases significantly degrade quality of life, especially severe cases of COPD and asthma.
Researchers find cause of frontotemporal dementia
Frontotemporal dementia is caused by defects in chromosome 17, specifically in the progranulin protein. Genetic analyses identified a shortage of progranulin in FTDU families, leading to brain cell death. This discovery offers new diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities for FTD and other brain diseases.
Novel mechanism of taxane resistance
Researchers identified a new gene, txr1, that promotes taxane resistance by suppressing thrombospondin 1. Depletion of txr1 or treatment with TSP-1 restores taxane sensitivity, offering a new avenue to modulate chemotherapeutic drug response.
Science reporters' top challenges include finding photos and well-spoken researchers
Science journalists struggle to find good-quality images and researchers who can explain complex scientific concepts in an understandable way. They also face challenges judging the trustworthiness of research, dealing with hype, and obtaining multimedia materials to convey scientific ideas.