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Science News for November 8, 2004


Doctors transplant ovary to woman's arm to preserve fertility

In a breakthrough procedure, doctors have successfully transplanted a healthy ovary from a patient's body into her upper arm, preserving her fertility. The innovative technique uses brachial vessels to establish blood supply and has shown promising results in maintaining cyclical follicular growth.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateNov 8, 2004

International marine survey of coral death

Marine scientists aim to fill information gaps on coral reef ecosystems to strengthen global management and policy interventions. The assessment focuses on identifying sources of new marine pathogens, reducing inputs, and developing control measures.

SourceCornell University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateNov 8, 2004

News tips for Monday, November 8, 2004

Researchers found microwave energy successfully ablates AF in most patients, while anxiety and low social support are associated with higher risk of relapse in heart failure patients. Additionally, women with non-ST elevation heart disease undergoing angioplasty face a higher risk of adverse events compared to men.

Delays in test result reviewing common

A study found that 83% of physicians reported delays in reviewing test results, which can jeopardize patient safety and satisfaction. Physicians also identified tools to help manage test results, such as generating result letters and tracking test orders.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 8, 2004

Changing ecosystems

Researchers find that invasive trout reduce forest spiders by altering stream food webs, highlighting the impact of species invasions on ecosystem connectivity. The matrix plays a crucial role in determining the effectiveness of corridors and stepping stones in increasing landscape connectivity.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcology·DateNov 8, 2004

Conversion of flower organs into leaves

A recent study by Gary Ditta and coworkers has identified a gene, SEP4, that plays a crucial role in converting leaf-like organs into flowers. The researchers found that the loss of activity of all four closely related genes results in the conversion of flower organs toward leaves.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 8, 2004

Smoking triggers early onset of pancreatic cancer

Researchers found that patients with a family history of pancreatic cancer are more likely to be diagnosed at an earlier age and have a smoking history. The study suggests that strong counseling against smoking is necessary for these patients, as well as smoking cessation programs.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateNov 8, 2004

Close control of blood pressure associated with fewer eye problems in patients with type 2 diabetes

A study of 1,148 hypertensive patients with type 2 diabetes found that tight blood pressure control reduced the incidence of diabetic retinopathy and visual loss by 47% over seven years. The researchers discovered a lower risk of microaneurysms and blindness in the tight BP control group compared to those with less stringent policies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Ophthalmology·DateNov 8, 2004

New medication dramatically decreases congestive heart failure in African-American patients

African-American Heart Failure Trial (A-HeFT) reveals a 43% decrease in one-year mortality rates among patients taking the combined treatment, and significant improvements in overall survival and quality of life. The study suggests that BiDil can slow heart failure progression and reduce death rates in this population.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 8, 2004

A new target for control of obesity

Researchers discovered that Shp-2, a tyrosine phosphatase, plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and increasing sensitivity to leptin. The study found that mice with early-onset obesity had increased levels of leptin, insulin, glucose, and triglycerides.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 8, 2004

Asymmetric organs and microRNA-directed DNA modification

In Arabidopsis leaves, specific mutations affect leaf patterning by altering microRNA binding sites. MicroRNAs interact with nascent mRNA to alter chromatin states, leading to reduced methylation of PHB and PHV genes. This study demonstrates the role of microRNA-directed DNA modification in regulating plant development.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateNov 8, 2004

Scientists uncover secret to sharp teeth

A new research study reveals that follistatin, a gene playing a critical role in organ patterning, regulates enamel formation on mouse incisors. The asymmetric expression of follistatin accounts for the distinct patterning of enamel formation and is required for the formation of enamel-free tooth regions.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateNov 8, 2004

ACE inhibitors not needed for many heart disease patients, according to new study

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that ACE inhibitors do not provide added cardiovascular protection for patients with coronary heart disease who have normal or only mildly reduced heart function. These findings suggest that many patients with this condition may not need to take ACE inhibitors, potentia...

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 8, 2004

Fingerprints in the sky explained

Researchers used elliptic integrals to predict polarisation patterns in skylight, finding that singularities play a vital role in shaping the overall pattern. The study provides a simple and beautiful explanation for this natural phenomenon.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateNov 8, 2004