Cytoplasm affects the number of vertebrae in carp-goldfish clones
Researchers found that the number of vertebrae in cloned carp-goldfish fish was determined by the goldfish's egg cytoplasm, not its genetic code. The study suggests a
Science News for February 20, 2005
Learning to fight an adversary that won't stay down
Despite advances in molecular biology, microbes have outpaced pharmaceutical companies in developing resistance to antibiotics. Dr. Julian Davies highlights over 300 known genes that confer resistance, and notes the need for a deeper understanding of microbial evolution.
Psychiatric disorders greatly underdiagnosed in hospital emergency departments
Researchers found a psychiatric rate of 5.27% among emergency department patients, significantly lower than national prevalence rates. The study identified significant disparities in psychiatric diagnoses between Caucasians and African Americans.
SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology·DateFeb 20, 2005
Scientists discuss future of science in the Bush administration
The panel discussion highlights concerns over funding cuts for environmental research programs, including NASA's Earth Science program and the Climate Change Science Program. The scientists warn that these cuts will have a significant impact on graduate student training and the nation's economic competitiveness.
Language Weaver announces Version 3.0, major upgrade to its statistical machine translation software
The new version boasts improved translation quality, speed improvements of 5-10 times over previous versions, and enhanced multi-processor capabilities. This upgrade enables faster automation of the translation process, saving customers time and money.
Familiar blood pressure drug may prevent osteoporosis
Research demonstrates that the sympathetic nervous system mediates bone resorption through a receptor on bone cells, which is required for osteoporosis development. Preventing this effect could lead to the prevention of osteoporosis. Drugs like beta blockers show promise in reducing fractures and may be repurposed to target bone health.
Slow growth in infancy signals poor economic prospects in adulthood
A study of over 4,500 Finnish men found that boys taller between birth and 1 year had higher earnings in adulthood. Those who grew slowly as infants were less likely to achieve higher education levels, suggesting a link between physical growth and economic outcomes.
Lack of specific collagen type leads to osteoarthritis
Researchers found that mice lacking type VI collagen developed osteoarthritis at a rate five times greater than those with a functioning gene. The study provides new insights into the role of type VI collagen in cartilage health and its impact on osteoarthritis development.
The thrill of discovery: Pitt professor reveals how he gets students interested in science
Hatfull, a Pitt professor, discusses ways to make research experiences available to students at all stages of education. He has turned high school students into
Air pollution thickens the blood
A study found that air pollution increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes by thickening blood, a process triggered by particulate matter. Exposure to pollutants boosted inflammatory activity and promoted clotting factors in cells, suggesting a potential link between air pollution and cardiovascular disease.
New approaches teach undergraduate students to think like researchers
Manuel Ares has developed a teaching exercise for undergraduate biology classes that helps students resolve conflicts in scientific data and apply processes used by scientists. The exercise involves laboratory experiments, literature searches, and presentations to develop a model of the system.
Study: Young adults can be motivated to eat fruits, veggies
A two-year study by the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that tailored dietary interventions can improve fruit and vegetable consumption among low-income young adults. The participants who received personalized phone calls and materials showed significant progress in eating five or more servings of fruits and vegetables daily.
Ultra-cold temperature physics opens way to understanding and applications
Ultra-cold atoms can help researchers understand quantum systems, including superconductivity. The atoms' interactions can be precisely calculated and controlled.
Hyperactive kids three times as likely to be removed from their families
A study of 201 children found that hyperkinetic disorder is associated with a higher risk of family breakdown, with 18% of affected children being removed from their homes. The findings suggest that recognizing and treating hyperactivity in children could help prevent family disruption.
U-M scientist to talk about tissue engineering at AAAS
Tissue engineering aims to regenerate human tissue through artificial means, mimicking the body's natural processes. Researchers at U-M School of Dentistry are working on combining therapies to improve tissue engineering outcomes, such as using parathyroid hormone and bone morphogenetic proteins.
Multimedia teaching tools for neuroscience
Cornell University researchers have developed multimedia teaching tools for neuroscience, including Koé, a CD-ROM that explores sound, and Fruitfly, which delves into neurogenetics. These interactive tools aim to make complex concepts more engaging and accessible for students of all levels.
We're here, we're warming, can we get used to it?
A decade-long study on water availability in the Yakima River Valley found expected losses to agriculture of $92-163 million by mid-century due to projected snowpack reductions. Climate models predict up to 70% reduction in snowpack for the West Coast, with severe droughts becoming more frequent.
El Nino forecasting could aid fisheries management, disease control, marine species protection
El Nino forecasting can aid in managing high-yield fisheries with boom-and-bust cycles, controlling tropical diseases like mosquito-caused malaria, and protecting marine mammals and other ocean species. By predicting ENSO events nine months in advance, scientists can deploy resources effectively.
Genome-wide mouse study yields link to human leukemia
Researchers found that mice with leukemia develop a similar DNA methylation pattern as humans, identifying a new gene linked to cancer. The study uses genome-wide sequencing to map tiny bits of DNA and reveals a potential target for intervention.
Climate change to bring a wave of new health risks
As climate change intensifies, humans will become more vulnerable to heat-related mortality, air pollution-related illnesses, infectious diseases, and malnutrition. Developing climate forecasts and warning systems can mitigate future health problems, but it's crucial to avoid maladaptation and take proactive measures to minimize risks.
Georgia Tech research indicates immune complications associated with combination medical devices
A new study from Georgia Tech and Emory University suggests that the body's response to a combination device may be different and potentially detrimental when multiple components are involved. This can lead to an enhanced immune response, making it more difficult for the device to integrate smoothly into the patient.
Global warming led to atmospheric hydrogen sulfide and Permian extinction
The end-Permian extinction was caused by a combination of factors, including volcanic carbon dioxide emissions, which warmed surface ocean water. This reduced the amount of oxygen available in the deep oceans, leading to an increase in hydrogen sulfide production and ultimately, mass extinctions.
How often should women get mammograms?
The mathematical model developed by Sandra Lee and Marvin Zelen provides quantitative predictions of the mortality benefits of different screening schedules. The study suggests that annual screenings from age 50 to 79 can reduce mortality by 37%, while starting mammograms at age 40 reduces overall risk of death by five percent.
New Georgia Tech micro-CT imaging technique to help tissue engineers improve bone regeneration
A new Georgia Tech micro-CT imaging technique helps tissue engineers develop better bone grafts by analyzing vascularization and mineralization. The technique provides high-resolution 3D images of bone repair, enabling researchers to optimize implant design and improve bone healing.
Animal parenting, personality and pair-ups
Researchers have discovered clear personality traits in dogs, hyenas, and monkeys, which can be measured like human personalities. These findings have implications for animal welfare, matching animals with owners, and exploring the biological causes of temperament.