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Science News for January 18, 2005


PENN study emphasizes need for national guidelines for assisted reproductive technology programs

A new study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine reveals inconsistencies in candidate-screening practices among US Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) programs. The study found significant variation in reported likelihood of turning away candidates, with some programs accepting couples with addiction or welfare status.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateJan 18, 2005

Doctor report cards not always clear when comparing quality of care

A new study analyzed surveys from 2,515 asthmatic patients to identify reliable quality indicators for physician profiling. The researchers found that having a sufficient number of patients and using clear-cut indicators like asthma self-management knowledge and use of inhaled steroids can help determine the best doctor for patients.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalThe American Journal of Managed Care·DateJan 18, 2005

A much-needed shot in the arm for HIV vaccine development

The Global HIV/AIDS Vaccine Enterprise has launched a scientific strategic plan to address major roadblocks in HIV vaccine development and proposes an innovative collaborative model for researchers worldwide. The plan aims to harness new opportunities, including an expanded pipeline of HIV vaccine candidates and improved animal models.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJan 18, 2005

Other highlights in the January 19 JNCI

A new study found that adding more types to the current HPV DNA test would detect relatively few additional cases of cervical cancer but lead to thousands of unnecessary exams for women without cancer. Meanwhile, esophageal adenocarcinoma has increased by sixfold over the last 25 years, with no clear explanation for the rise.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 18, 2005

Adding radiation therapy to chemotherapy improves survival in patients with high-risk breast cancer

The addition of locoregional radiation therapy significantly improved breast cancer survival and reduced mortality in high-risk patients. A 20-year follow-up study found that the regimen resulted in a 32% reduction in breast cancer mortality and a 27% reduction in overall mortality compared to chemotherapy alone.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 18, 2005

CPR performance does not follow guidelines

A study found that chest compressions were given only 48% of the time without spontaneous circulation, with an average compression rate of 64/min. The researchers emphasize the importance of focusing on delivery of correct chest compressions during CPR to improve patient survival.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJan 18, 2005

Fat deficiency gene also spurs obesity

A gene that causes severe fat deficiency is also found to promote obesity in mice, according to new research. The protein affects body weight by altering fat storage and metabolism, with excess levels leading to increased body weight and changes in energy expenditure.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJan 18, 2005