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Science News for February 20, 2007


Photo software creates 3-D world

Researchers developed Photo Tourism software that maps multiple photos into a 3D virtual world, solving the problem of navigating large photo collections. The technology has potential for real estate, museums, hotels, archaeologists, biologists, military, and sports enthusiasts to create interactive visual representations.

A chemotherapy drug packs a one-two punch

New research by Rockefeller University shows that bortezomib can kill multiple myeloma cells in a way that elicits an immune response, potentially enhancing patients' immunity to tumors. The treatment works by exposing heat shock proteins on dying cells, which then activate dendritic cells to present antigens to memory and killer T cells.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalBlood·DateFeb 20, 2007

Batten down the hatches against HIV

Carbon nanotubes successfully deliver RNA fragments that shut off genes for HIV-specific receptors on human T-cells. This approach significantly slows down HIV infection by blocking the virus's entry points.

SourceWiley·DateFeb 20, 2007

New research finds that a natural family planning method is as effective as the contraceptive pill

A new study found that a natural family planning method called symptothermal method (STM) is as effective as the contraceptive pill in preventing unplanned pregnancies when used correctly. The STM method uses two indicators to identify the fertile phase in a woman's menstrual cycle and has an unintended pregnancy rate of 0.4% per year.

Bacteria research offers hope for new vaccine against meningococci

Researchers developed a new system to monitor disease dynamics in mice infected with meningococci, offering insights into the disease's progression and potential for improved vaccines. The study found that modified bacteria lacking certain adhesins could not attach to mucous linings, providing a clearer picture of infection processes.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 20, 2007

MU researchers track personality traits to learn more about alcoholism

A long-term study at MU found that individuals from alcoholic homes retain higher levels of neuroticism and psychoticism, increasing the risk of alcohol dependency. The researchers monitored participants' personality traits over two decades, revealing a decrease in emotional stability for those with family histories of alcoholism.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPsychology of Addictive Behaviors·DateFeb 20, 2007

Case Western Reserve University study looks at mental and physical health of caregivers

A recent study by Case Western Reserve University found that caregivers with strong cultural beliefs and religious practices can shield themselves from mental health difficulties, however elevated cortisol levels indicate a risk of physical problems. Caregivers with stronger positive cultural beliefs about caring for elders were more l...

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalAmerican Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateFeb 20, 2007

Other highlights in the Feb. 21 JNCI

A new screening protocol has been identified that can detect Lynch syndrome, a disorder that increases the risk of developing colorectal cancer at a young age. The screening procedure detected mutations in 69 patients and identified at least 57 HNPCC patients who would not have been screened under current testing practices.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 20, 2007

Gene hunters close in on Lou Gehrig’s disease

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified 34 unique genetic variations associated with sporadic ALS, bringing them closer to developing treatments. The study scanned the entire genome of 276 subjects with ALS and found that these genetic variants are more common in individuals with the disease.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateFeb 20, 2007

Living in densely populated areas linked to lower body mass

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that living in densely populated, pedestrian-friendly areas is associated with lower body mass index levels. Researchers discovered that access to public transit, proximity to commercial goods and services, and population density are inversely related to BMI levels.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Promotion·DateFeb 20, 2007