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Science News Archive 1999 - Page 10


Page 10 of 54

Chimpanzee subspecies are genetically mixed and more diverse than humans, according to research in 5 November 1999Science

A recent study published in Science found that chimpanzee subspecies are genetically mixed and more diverse than previously thought. The research suggests that the variation in the chimpanzee genome is not due to cultural differences, but rather a result of genetic variation between populations.

A key to depression

Scientists discovered that Prozac increases new neurons in rats' brains by 69% compared to controls. This finding may explain why people recover from depression with SSRIs. The study also suggests serotonin's role in treating other neurological diseases like Alzheimer's.

SourceNew Scientist·JournalThe New Scientist·DateNov 2, 1999

Why are the elderly so easily fooled by con artists?

Research suggests that some older adults have impaired decision-making skills, making them more vulnerable to fraudulent activities. A study found that a third of healthy individuals in their 60s performed poorly on a gambling task, similar to those with known brain damage.

SourceNew Scientist·JournalThe New Scientist·DateNov 2, 1999

Lasers clean fossils in no time

Physicists at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory are developing a control system that switches off a cutting laser when it detects phosphorus, allowing for quick and efficient fossil cleaning. This technique could significantly reduce the time-consuming process of preparing fossils by hand, especially for delicate or soft bones.

SourceNew Scientist·JournalThe New Scientist·DateNov 2, 1999

UC researchers use Doppler ultrasound

Researchers at UC have developed a novel method for detecting early signs of artery blockages using Doppler ultrasound, which can accurately predict turbulence intensity and detect atherosclerosis. This non-invasive technique is safer than current methods requiring ionizing radiation or pressure transducer insertion.

Research challenges conventional thinking on ways to treat prostate cancer

Researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center challenge current understanding of prostate cancer treatment by showing that testosterone withdrawal triggers a dormant state in tumor cells, rather than causing widespread cell death. This study offers new hope for developing targeted therapies to combat recurrent prostate cancer.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateNov 1, 1999

Chromosome changes predict more deadly prostate tumors

Men with specific chromosome 8 abnormalities have a 30% survival rate after 10 years, compared to 78% for those with normal chromosomes. The findings could help identify patients who require closer follow-up and more aggressive early treatment.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateNov 1, 1999

Duke study: Poured sand sifts, but showered sand doesn't

A Duke study reveals that the pressures under poured sandpiles are highest at their peripheries due to unbalanced distributions of stresses. In contrast, showered sand piles concentrate stresses at their centers like medieval cathedrals' flying buttresses. This research has practical importance for structures prone to self-destruction.

SourceDuke University·JournalPhysical Review E·DateNov 1, 1999

Traumatic brain injury hastens onset of Alzheimer's disease

A recent Mayo Clinic study found that traumatic brain injuries increase the risk of Alzheimer's Disease, with a median observed time from injury to onset of 10 years. The study suggests that traumatic brain injury interacts with other factors to hasten the onset of Alzheimer's in susceptible individuals.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateNov 1, 1999

Challenges of welfare reform

Researchers find substance use and dependence are significant problems among welfare recipients, but academic skill deficits are a greater barrier to self-sufficiency. Effective services addressing mental health needs and providing support for work barriers are crucial for successful fulfillment of family roles.

Can you hear what the neural net hears?

Researchers at USC have created a machine system that recognizes spoken words better than humans, with potential benefits for Navy sonar and improving interaction between man and computer. The system may eventually enable voice control of computers, help the deaf, and aid air traffic controllers in noisy environments.

Twins

Recent research reveals a master regulator protein that prevents DNA replication at the wrong time in the cell cycle, ensuring each progeny cell has the correct number of gene-bearing chromosomes. This discovery could lead to new design principles for operating autonomous devices.

Depression linked to death among heart failure patients

A new study published in the International Journal of Psychiatry in Medicine found that depressed mood is significantly related to increased mortality risk among people with congestive heart failure. Patients with severe depression were four times more likely to die within two years than those without depression.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalThe International Journal of Psychiatry in Medicine·DateOct 31, 1999

Disabled by depression - study analyzes costs, causes

A recent study by Reg A. Williams highlights the significant economic impact of depression in the workplace, citing an estimated total cost of up to $44 billion. The study also identifies key risk factors for depression, including stress, negative changes in personal life, and difficulties in interpersonal relationships.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalAAOHN Journal·DateOct 31, 1999

Female medical students more patient-centered

A recent study of first-year medical students found that female students are more patient-centered in their approach to medicine, prioritizing equal partnerships and shared decision-making. This patient-centered attitude is also associated with a greater desire to practice in community and primary care settings.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalThe International Journal of Psychiatry in Medicine·DateOct 31, 1999

A growth factor reverses nerve damage in diabetic animals

A recent study reveals that long-term nerve damage in diabetic rats can be reversed by treatment with an insulin-like protein. The protein may prevent or alleviate certain nerve complications associated with diabetes, such as irregular blood pressure control and digestive issues. Researchers are hopeful about the potential therapeutic ...

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateOct 31, 1999

Alzheimer protein found critical to brain development

Researchers from Mount Sinai Hospital and University of Toronto have discovered that Alzheimer's disease proteins also play a crucial role in mammalian development. The study used mice lacking PS1 and PS2 genes to investigate their normal function, finding that these proteins are essential for brain development.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalGenes & Development·DateOct 30, 1999