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Science News for November 12, 2003


Natural selection in a nutshell

Researchers found that genes influence offspring growth, while quality of care from mothers is the primary factor. The study suggests that there are both "super moms" and "dud moms", with success determined by environmental conditions like food supply.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society of London·DateNov 12, 2003

Teaching hospital physicians report trouble obtaining specialty services for the uninsured

A recent survey of US academic health centers found that physicians struggle to access specialty care for uninsured patients, with significant problems reported at both public and private hospitals. The study highlights the limitations of the nation's safety net and suggests broadening reimbursement funds as a possible solution.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalHealth Affairs·DateNov 12, 2003

Hearing aid research gets federal boost

Binghamton University has received a $10 million grant from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders to develop more effective hearing aids. The project aims to dramatically improve speech intelligibility in noisy environments, benefiting over 28 million Americans with hearing loss.

NIA statement on IOM testosterone report

The NIA is concerned about the growing use of testosterone replacement therapy without sufficient scientific information. Short-term studies are recommended to determine potential risks and benefits for symptomatic older men with low testosterone levels. Longer term trials will assess risks and benefits for these conditions, such as fr...

Salk news: Diabetes first steps

Scientists discovered a chemical relay that controls whether the body burns sugars or fats for energy. The discovery may help design better treatments for insulin resistance and ultimately prevent adult-onset diabetes.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNature·DateNov 12, 2003

Caregivers for patients with dementia need more support before patient dies, less after

A new study suggests that caregivers of patients with end-of-life dementia experience high levels of depressive symptoms while caring for their loved ones, but exhibit clinically lower depression after the patient's death. The research also found that caregivers report feeling relieved when their loved one passes away.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 12, 2003

Visualizing Alzheimer's disease

A team of scientists has made a groundbreaking discovery by visualizing damaged nerve connections in living mice and tracking them over time. This breakthrough could lead to a better understanding of the underlying processes involved in Alzheimer's disease and potentially unlock new treatments.

Observing a burst with sunglasses

A team of astronomers studied the polarisation properties of GRB 030329's afterglow over 38 days, detecting significant variability in strength and orientation. The data reveal a unique diagnostic tool for gamma-ray burst studies, challenging existing theories.

SourceESO·JournalNature·DateNov 12, 2003

News tips for Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2003

Cardiac researchers report improved blood flow to ischemic heart muscle using granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), a potential new treatment for intractable ischemia. Meanwhile, ICD patients may be safer with vigorous exercise, while daytime sleepiness significantly affects the quality of life of angina patients.

Hello, will you be my friend?

The nTag device uses infrared links and RFID chips to connect people with common interests, alerting them to potential matches. Despite some initial issues, most delegates were impressed with the service, exchanging over 3,600 business cards during the event.