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Science News for October 2, 2003


Gastric bypass surgery resolves or improves diabetes in most patients, reports Pittsburgh study

The study found that gastric bypass surgery significantly improved diabetes outcomes in patients, with nearly all achieving normal blood sugar levels and reducing their reliance on anti-diabetic medications. Patients with shorter disease durations and milder type 2 diabetes saw the greatest improvements in glycemic control.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateOct 2, 2003

Tufts University wins $25-million NIH contract

Tufts University has been awarded a $25-million NIH contract to collaborate with the University of Massachusetts on developing ways to diagnose and treat botulism poisoning, one of the most dangerous bioterrorism threats facing the US. The research will focus on identifying human pathogens that can cause disease in food or water.

Purdue researchers solve decades-old corn, sorghum problem

A team of Purdue University researchers has identified the genetic mechanism responsible for dwarfed appearance in corn and sorghum plants. This finding may help develop dwarf forms in other crops, improving food production in certain regions. The study also reveals a genetic phenomenon involving direct duplication that causes instabil...

SourcePurdue University·JournalScience·DateOct 2, 2003

Paradox in the lungs resolved

Researchers have resolved a long-standing paradox surrounding lung collectins, finding they play two roles in the lungs: dampening and promoting immune responses. This discovery sheds light on how these versatile proteins protect against both harmful pathogens and excessive inflammation.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalCell·DateOct 2, 2003

Neurons that play truth or consequences

Researchers found neurons in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) respond to discrepancies between intentions and actual events, indicating that the brain monitors the consequences of actions. The study used detailed studies measuring neural activity in macaque monkeys performing tasks requiring self-control.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalScience·DateOct 2, 2003