The American Geophysical Union has named Robert C. Cowen its award for sustained achievement in science journalism, recognizing his 50-year career as a science writer and editor at The Christian Science Monitor. The award honors Cowen's contribution to the public understanding of science.
A study found that weight loss lowered high-normal blood pressure in overweight adults, but only a small percentage maintained substantial weight loss over three years. Another study discovered that scuba diving increases the risk of brain lesions due to decompression illnesses and heart abnormalities.
A new study published in JAMA found that steroid hormone drug fludrocortisone does not alleviate symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), particularly neurally mediated hypotension (NMH). Researchers recommend further testing of other drugs or drug combinations to benefit CFS patients with NMH.
At the American Astronomical Society meeting, NSF highlighted recent breakthroughs in adaptive optics, revealing a solar-system-sized disk around a massive protostar. The NOAO Deep Wide-Field Survey also captured 300,000 faint galaxies over a vast area, creating the first three-dimensional map of the universe.
A Johns Hopkins Children's Center study failed to link autistic children's sensory fixation to brain damage, contradicting long-held theories. The study found that the cerebellum's balance regulation function operates normally in high-functioning autistic children.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison have identified the genetic basis of Alexander disease, a rare and devastating childhood brain disorder. The discovery confirms mutations in the GFAP gene as the cause, leading to an abnormal protein buildup that damages the nervous system.
A new study found that deaf children who receive cochlear implants at a young age have better speech recognition skills than those who wait longer. The research suggests that early implantation is crucial for language development and can improve communication skills in children with hearing impairments.