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Science News for February 9, 2004


Making of mouse marks move toward 'mitochondrial medicine'

Researchers have successfully created a new kind of mouse by replacing its genetic material with that from another species, paving the way for studies on mitochondrial medicine. The goal is to improve treatment options for people with currently untreatable diseases, such as infertility, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 2004

Race may be a factor in treatment of rectal cancer patients

A recent study found racial disparities in the delivery of care to black and white rectal cancer patients. Black patients were diagnosed at a younger age and had more advanced disease, leading to differences in treatment outcomes. The study suggests that improved access to state-of-the-art surgical care for minority patients with recta...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateFeb 9, 2004

Death rates for certain complex surgeries lower at teaching hospitals

A study found that teaching hospitals have lower operative mortality rates for pancreatic, hepatic, and esophageal resections. Higher volume at teaching hospitals is a contributing factor to these differences in outcomes. The findings suggest that hospital structure and process variables play a role in variation in surgical outcomes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateFeb 9, 2004

U.S. push for diesel poses risk to public health, scientists say

Scientists say that replacing gasoline-fueled vehicles with cleaner diesel technology could lead to a significant increase in surface ozone levels, particularly in the Southeast. The study found that pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons also increased, highlighting the need for more effective pollution control measures.

SourceStanford University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateFeb 9, 2004

Breast cancer vaccine study

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania are conducting a clinical trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a telomerase peptide-based vaccine against breast cancer. The study aims to stimulate an immune response that can target and kill cancer cells, with the goal of improving patient health.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateFeb 9, 2004