Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for September 13, 2004


Many who cut back on Rx drugs to cut costs don't tell doctors

A study finds that two-thirds of chronically ill patients cut back on prescription drugs due to cost concerns, but few inform their doctors. The researchers recommend healthcare providers take the initiative to ask patients about cost issues and educate them on necessary medications. Most patients who spoke up received help through fre...

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateSep 13, 2004

Lewis and Clark slip through climatic window to the West

The Lewis and Clark expedition successfully traversed the new frontier due to a favorable climatic window that allowed for abundant food sources. If they had traveled during an intense drought, their journey might have been significantly impacted, potentially altering the course of U.S. expansion into the West.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateSep 13, 2004

Cancer survivors' other medical problems poorly managed

A recent study found that cancer survivors are less likely to receive recommended medical care for their chronic diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and strokes. The authors conclude that cancer patients' other medical issues may be ignored due to a focus on the prior malignancy.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateSep 13, 2004

Can an old gene learn new tricks?

Researchers discovered that the Hmx gene, which was previously thought to only develop the central nervous system in fruit flies, can also direct development of the inner ear and hypothalamus in mice. This suggests that old genes can be repurposed for new functions through regulatory element shuffling, enabling evolutionary advancements.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateSep 13, 2004

Hydrocarbons in the deep Earth?

Researchers found that methane formed through reducing carbon in calcite at temperatures and pressures of about 1000 degrees F and less than 70,000 times atmospheric pressure. The study's implications are significant for the ecology and economy of our planet if abiogenic hydrocarbons are produced in the deep Earth.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 13, 2004

New approach to assessing glaucoma risk may help physicians decide who needs treatment

A new approach to assessing glaucoma risk, inspired by the coronary heart disease model, aims to identify individuals at risk and guide treatment decisions. This initiative has the potential to shift the focus from reactive treatment to proactive prevention and earlier intervention for those at risk.

SourceUniversity of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey·JournalAmerican Journal of Ophthalmology·DateSep 13, 2004

Protein is key for digestive function of the pancreas

The study reveals that VAMP8 is essential for the normal functioning of pancreatic acinar cells, which produce digestive enzymes. Mice lacking VAMP8 showed reduced levels of digestive enzymes and partial resistance to pancreatitis, suggesting a potential link between VAMP8 and this condition.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateSep 13, 2004

Images of 'tail' of protein needed for cell multiplication suggest anticancer drug targets

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have discovered the structure and function of the 'tail' of a protein essential for cell replication, revealing potential targets for new anticancer drugs. The study found that a slight modification in the protein's shape can create unique enzyme activity.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateSep 13, 2004

There and back again

Researchers uncover a novel mechanism regulating cell shape changes during somitogenesis, a process crucial for vertebrae and muscle formation. Cdc42 plays a central role in this transition, with activity levels influencing mesenchymal cells' ability to become epithelial cells.

SourceRIKEN Center for Developmental Biology·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateSep 13, 2004

Women starting mammography on time, but failing to follow up

A study of 72,417 women found that many began mammography between ages 35-40 and delayed follow-up. Women without insurance or a primary care doctor faced longer delays in starting screening. The authors suggest encouraging prompt return to screening may be more critical than initial start.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateSep 13, 2004

A probable cause for high blood pressure identified - shows links with diabetes

A study led by Mount Sinai School of Medicine researchers found that imidazole-4-acetic acid-ribotide may be a primary cause of high blood pressure and a molecular link to diabetes. The molecule binds to receptors in the brain, leading to elevated blood pressure, which can also impair insulin release.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 13, 2004

Gene expression in liver tumors and patient prognosis

A study has identified two distinct subclasses of liver cancer with differing survival rates, providing new molecular insight into the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma. The findings suggest that gene expression profiles can accurately predict patient survival and may lead to the development of more targeted therapies.

SourceWiley·JournalHepatology·DateSep 13, 2004

Research uncovers added value of streamside forests

A new study by the U.S. National Science Foundation highlights the vital importance of streamside forests in maintaining clean water and healthy ecosystems. The research, funded jointly by NSF and EPA, shows that these forests help filter pollutants from streams, enhance ecosystem processes, and support biodiversity.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 13, 2004