Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive June 2009 - Page 26


Page 26 of 26

Targeting breast cancer stem cells in mice

PTEN is often inactivated in breast cancer, leading to poor patient outcomes. Researchers found that a drug called perifosine specifically targets the breast cancer stem cell population by inhibiting the Akt pathway, reducing tumor-forming cells by up to 90%.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 1, 2009

MIT: New system monitors fetal heartbeat

A new system developed by MIT scientists can monitor the fetal heartbeat noninvasively, allowing for early detection of potential problems. The system separates the maternal ECG signal from the fetus's and background noise thanks to a complex algorithm, enabling clinicians to catch subtle variations in the fetal heartbeat.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·DateJun 1, 2009

TV noise associated with fewer verbal interactions between infants and parents

A recent study published in Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine found that every hour of TV exposure is linked to a 7% decrease in the number of words an adult says to an infant. This reduction in verbal interactions also affects the length and frequency of child vocalizations and conversational turns between adults and children.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJun 1, 2009

Retained elementary students often do not get special education plan

A study found that many retained elementary students do not receive individualized special education services, even if they are eligible. Children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds were less likely to receive these services. The lack of IEPs raises concerns about the special education needs of retained children.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJun 1, 2009

Stellar explosion displays massive carbon footprint

Astronomers at the University of Warwick have discovered that the 2006 stellar explosion SCP 06F6 bears remarkable resemblance to extremely carbon-rich stars. The object's unusual characteristics suggest it may be a new type of supernova, with properties distinct from normal Type II supernovae.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJun 1, 2009