New ovarian cancer hope for women
A new biomarker, HE4, has been identified as a potential tool for early detection of ovarian cancer. The molecule is secreted into the blood and its presence can be detected in simple clinical tests.
Science News for June 25, 2003
UT Southwestern researchers pinpoint role cell surface protein group plays in brain function
A specific group of brain proteins called alpha-Neurexins is essential for activating communication between neurons, and its absence disrupts synaptic transmission. This discovery expands knowledge of synaptic transmission and provides new insight into how the brain works.
English babies leave parents with less sleep
The Millennium Cohort Study found that over seven percent of English babies sleep in their parents' bed, a higher rate compared to other countries. The study also revealed various interesting facts about the first year of life for these children, such as the most common names and solid food consumption.
Wake Forest scientists figure out bizarre visual condition
Researchers found that signals from the basal ganglia may be preventing intact visual areas from functioning properly. Disrupting basal ganglia activity could restore balance and treat visual neglect, a condition where patients perceive only half of their surroundings.
American Thoracic Society Journal news tips for July 2003 (first issue)
Researchers published studies on new treatments for severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), a potential new treatment for pulmonary hypertension in sickle cell patients using oral arginine, and the benefits of noninvasive ventilation. Early removal of breathing tubes, combined with noninvasive ventilation, significantly reduced hospi...
SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJun 25, 2003
Distinctive genetic program guides breast cancer's deadly spread
Researchers have identified a set of genes specifically associated with breast cancer's ability to metastasize to bone. The study found that these 'poor prognosis signature' genes enable tumor cells to home in on bone and trigger growth of blood vessels. The discovery does not invalidate the classical model of tumor cell metastasis, bu...
Of mice and memory
Researchers at USC developed synthetic enzymes that can combat oxidative damage, leading to improved memory in mice. The findings suggest these compounds may be more effective than traditional antioxidants in humans and could potentially treat various diseases with an oxidative component.
SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2003
Relocation of children after parents' divorce may lead to long-term problems, study suggests
A study of 602 college students found that relocation after parents' divorce is associated with negative effects on children's psychological and emotional adjustment, general life satisfaction, and financial support. The researchers warn that the results are correlational and more longitudinal research is needed to confirm the findings.
Research shows bortezomib benefits a third of multiple myeloma patients
A phase 2 clinical trial found that bortezomib responded positively in 193 relapsed patients, including seven with undetectable myeloma protein and 12 with detectable protein only with immunofixation. The results confirmed significant clinical benefits from therapy.
SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJun 25, 2003
Pox to pimples; study says acne-like outbreak not vaccinia
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that a generalized rash on some smallpox vaccine recipients was not due to the virus, but rather a benign reaction called folliculitis. The study aimed to clarify this previously unwell-documented phenomenon and reassure physicians about accurate diagnosis.
Cigarette smoke linked to low folate levels
Research suggests a significant association between cigarette smoke exposure and lower folate levels, potentially increasing the risk of diseases such as heart disease and breast cancer. The study found that red blood cell folate levels were 20% lower in current smokers compared to nonsmokers.
UCI researcher pinpoints cause of inherited auditory neuropathy
Researchers have found a link between low nerve cell counts and inherited auditory neuropathy, a disorder affecting approximately 250,000 people. The study suggests that new therapies may be developed to prevent or treat the condition, potentially preserving existing nerve cells through stem cell research.
Purdue genetic discovery may aid plants and human medicine
A team of Purdue University researchers has identified two genetic mutations that alter plant growth and development, potentially leading to more resilient crops. These mutations also hold promise for improving cancer treatments by controlling the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs.
Four US students named to Chemistry Olympiad team
The American Chemical Society has selected four US students and two alternates to compete in the International Chemistry Olympiad. The team members, from various states across the country, will receive college-level training in organic chemistry through a series of lectures, problem-solving exercises, lab work, and testing.
Trends in private Medicare+Choice plans provide warnings for Medicare debate
Private Medicare+Choice plans experience instability, with low participation rates and high turnover among physicians and hospitals. The complex choice of benefits and cost-sharing makes it difficult for beneficiaries to make informed decisions.
UW-Madison receives $10 million for cancer communications research
Researchers at UW-Madison will enhance the Comprehensive Health Enhancement Support System (CHESS) with new functions tailored to individual needs. The center's projects aim to improve patient outcomes, quality of life, and cost-effectiveness in cancer communication systems.
Survey reveals adult ADHD often undiagnosed by primary care physicians
A recent survey found that nearly half of primary care physicians feel uncertain in diagnosing adult ADHD, highlighting the need for better training and symptom assessment tools. The survey also revealed that only 34% of physicians report being knowledgeable about adult ADHD, compared to 92% for depression.
Behavior of arctic ocean ridge confounds predictions; May lead to new insights into crust formation
Scientists from NSF and DFG present striking new results from the Gakkel Ridge research cruise, which contradicts expectations of volcanic activity. The slowest spreading rate was found to have higher levels of volcanic activity than predicted, highlighting the importance of other factors in crust formation.
Impatient Web searchers measure Web sites' appeal in seconds
Researchers analyzed over 450,000 web queries, finding half of users enter only one query with 54% viewing just one page of results. Site developers can improve odds by getting indexed by all search engines and crafting clear abstracts about their site's purpose.
Tissue-engineered bone speeds healing in laboratory tests
Researchers develop scaffold that enables bone marrow cells to grow naturally without growth factors, promoting dense new bone growth. The technology has shown promising results in animal studies, with strong new bone replacing the scaffold in just eight weeks.
Study shows negative impact from parental move after divorce
A recent study by Arizona State University researchers contradicts the assumption that a child's best interest is served when the custodial parent moves. The study found that students whose parents had moved experienced higher negative impacts on general health, financial support, and emotional well-being.
June issue ofPlant Physiologyhas significant UCR contributions
The June issue of Plant Physiology features UCR's Center for Plant Cell Biology, which addresses fundamental questions in plant biology through interdisciplinary approaches. The center's work has significant implications for understanding plant cell function and responses to environmental changes.
Chemical Heritage Foundation and BIO give Biotechnology Heritage Award to William Rutter
Biotechnology Heritage Award honors William Rutter's significant contributions to the development of biotechnology through discovery, innovation, and public understanding. Rutter's entrepreneurial spirit and management skills played a crucial role in the growth of biotechnology as a discipline and global industry.
Novel cancer drug achieves significant response rate in advanced multiple myeloma patients
A phase II multicenter collaborative study found that Velcade significantly reduced disease in 67% of patients with advanced multiple myeloma, with some achieving complete or near-complete responses. The drug has shown great potential to improve patient outcomes in this incurable disease.
Scientists announce first 3-D assembly of magnetic and semiconducting nanoparticles
Researchers have successfully assembled three-dimensional patterns from two different types of nanoparticles with complementary properties. The combination may exhibit novel magneto-optical properties and key features for quantum computing.