Researchers found that programs teaching African-American foster children about their cultural heritage improve self-esteem and encourage positive community involvement. Participants in the AA-RITES program showed greater respect for women, desired further education, and felt a sense of responsibility.
A study by Ohio State University researcher Paul Nutt found that business decisions often fail, with about half resulting in no implementation and 50% being partially used. Managers can improve decision-making by involving those affected and using effective tactics.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that testing for a specific gene type can accurately diagnose Alzheimer's disease in most patients. The study showed that 100% of patients with the Alzheimer's susceptibility gene had the disease's telltale neurofibrillary plaques and tangles.
The US Department of Agriculture has introduced Mediterranean mites to control field bindweed, a perennial weed that infests millions of acres of wheat, corn and other crops in the Pacific Northwest. The mites feed on bindweed leaves, causing galls to form, which weaken the weed and make it more susceptible to herbicides.
Researchers found that middle-aged males with rigid styles of expressing anger had higher levels of total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol than those who were flexible. This study suggests that a flexible approach to managing anger may be the best solution for reducing heart disease risk.
Researchers have identified a genetic marker linked to the callipyge trait, which results in larger buttocks and leaner, less expensive meat. The discovery of the marker will aid efforts to breed sheep with heftier hindquarters using a blood test, and may also be applied to other species.
Researchers at Harvard Medical School and Harvard School of Public Health have discovered the role of Stat 4 in determining T helper cell differentiation. The study found that Stat 4 is the master switch controlling the differentiation of T helper cells, which plays a critical role in dictating the outcome of immune responses.
A new study by Ohio State University found that U.S. House members who collect high amounts of campaign funds reduce the likelihood of a quality challenger entering the race by 16%. The study analyzed 397 races in 1990 and showed how incumbents' fundraising can discourage challengers.
Researchers weigh evidence for and against prion theory behind rare fatal diseases. A 24 researcher interview draws on interviews with all sides of the issue.
Researchers at Cornell University have successfully determined the structure of a newly identified key protein, expanding our understanding of cellular function and potential therapeutic targets. The discovery opens doors to further investigation of this protein's role in various diseases.