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Science News Archive 2008 - Page 9


Page 9 of 240

Researchers map new path to colon cancer therapy

University of Texas Medical Branch researchers have identified a promising new target for colon cancer therapy by mapping the biochemical pathway critical to the spread of tumors. High levels of the enzyme Akt2 are found in association with other cancers, and its inhibition shows promise in stopping colon cancer's spread.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 2008

New method of scoring IQ tests benefits children with intellectual disabilities

Researchers have developed a new system of scoring IQ tests for children with fragile X syndrome, a genetic disorder causing intellectual disabilities. The new method provides a more accurate assessment of the long-term learning potential of these children, helping parents and physicians diagnose and treat them more effectively.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Neurodevelopmental Disorders·DateDec 15, 2008

JCI online early table of contents: Dec. 15, 2008

Researchers have identified a new genetic cause of severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), also known as 'Boy in the bubble syndrome'. A mutation in the DNA-PKcs gene has been found to be associated with T-B SCID, where patients lack both T and B cells. Further analysis revealed that the mutant protein retained kinase activity but was...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 15, 2008

Solar flare surprise

Researchers detected a stream of perfectly intact hydrogen atoms shooting out of an X-class solar flare, surprising scientists. The discovery suggests that all strong flares might emit hydrogen bursts, which could be detected using the NASA's STEREO spacecraft.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateDec 15, 2008

Breathing problems during sleep associated with calories burned at rest

A study published in Archives of Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery found that individuals with sleep-related breathing disorders tend to burn more calories when resting. The research, which assessed 212 adults, showed a significant association between the severity of breathing disorders and increased energy expenditure.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateDec 15, 2008

Single virus used to convert adult cells to embryonic stem cell-like cells

Scientists have developed a new method for converting adult cells into embryonic stem cell-like cells using a single virus, cutting the number of viruses used from four to one. This approach eliminates the risks associated with multiple viruses and could potentially be used to treat diseases such as Parkinson's and diabetes.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 2008

New genetic cause of boy in the bubble syndrome

Researchers at Erasmus Medical Center have identified a new genetic cause of Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID), also known as 'Boy in the bubble syndrome'. A mutation in the DNA-PKcs gene is found to be responsible for the disease, leading to impaired T cell and B cell development.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 15, 2008

Joslin research finds nearly three-quarters of youths with diabetes insufficient in vitamin D

A study by researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center found that nearly three-quarters of youths with type 1 diabetes have insufficient levels of vitamin D, which may lead to bone fragility and increased fracture risk. The study recommends vitamin D supplementation to children with diabetes, especially those with inadequate sun exposure and...

SourceJoslin Diabetes Center·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateDec 15, 2008