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Science News Archive February 2010 - Page 19


Page 19 of 22

Madly mapping the universe

Researchers have developed MADmap, a new software tool that improves the mapping of the cosmic microwave background by accounting for noise in the data. The software uses a special code to weight and account for colored noise, which is a known characteristic of bolometers used to measure radiation at certain wavelengths.

Older female cancer survivors have added health issues compared to their counterparts

A recent study published in Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that older married women who survived cancer had more health problems than their non-cancer counterparts. The study, which matched women for age, ethnicity, and race, revealed higher levels of fatigue, physical limitations, and depression among cancer survivors.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateFeb 3, 2010

JDRF-funded research advances potential for regeneration as a possible cure for type 1 diabetes

Researchers at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies have made a breakthrough in understanding how stress hormones affect insulin-producing cells. The study found that the hormone CRF can increase the rate of cell growth and proliferation, which could potentially lead to new approaches for treating type 1 diabetes.

SourceJDRF·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 3, 2010

Scripps Research scientists find two compounds that lay the foundation for a new class of AIDS drug

Researchers identified two compounds that bind to novel parts of the HIV protease enzyme, which could improve potency of existing treatments and combat drug-resistant strains. These findings open a new approach to drug design against HIV protease, targeting non-active sites that may help restore effectiveness against resistant superbugs.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalChemical Biology & Drug Design·DateFeb 3, 2010

UM School of Medicine scientists find new malaria vaccine is safe and promotes immune response in children

Researchers have developed a new malaria vaccine that has shown strong and long-lasting immune responses in young children, surpassing antibody levels found in adults. The vaccine, FMP2.1/AS02A, targets the blood stage of the disease and was tested in 100 Malian children, with all doses proving safe and well-tolerated.

Back to work policies need gender awareness

Back-to-work policies are losing impact due to their 'gender blind' approach, neglecting the needs of teenage fathers and men working in childcare. The study emphasizes the importance of targeted support for young fathers to address gender inequalities and promote inclusive policies.

SourceSAGE Publications UK·JournalCritical Social Policy·DateFeb 3, 2010

Scientists map epigenome of human stem cells during development

Researchers created a detailed map of the human epigenome during embryonic development, identifying patterns of DNA methylation and its role in regulating gene expression. This breakthrough has significant implications for targeted differentiation of stem cells into specific organs, a crucial consideration for stem cell therapy.

Nano imagining takes turn for the better

Rice University researchers have developed a new way to track nanoparticles using gold nanorods and polarization imaging techniques. The technique could provide valuable information about materials, including living systems, that incorporate nanoparticles.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 3, 2010

Experimental stem cell treatment arrests acute lung injury in mice, study shows

Researchers have successfully developed a new stem cell treatment that can arrest acute lung injury in mice, paving the way for potential treatments of respiratory diseases. The experimental treatment uses transplantable lung cells derived from human embryonic stem cells and has shown promising results in tests on mice with damaged lungs.