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Science News Archive October 2001


Page 8 of 8

'Drive-through' mastectomies becoming more common

The incidence of outpatient total mastectomy increased significantly between 1990 and 1996, particularly in states like Colorado and Maryland. Insurance coverage also played a role, with Medicaid patients being more likely to require hospital stays.

Hostile political TV leads to negative attitudes about politics

Researchers found that viewers who watched uncivil debates on TV showed more negative attitudes toward Congress, politicians, and the American political system. Civility in debates had a positive impact on viewer recall of arguments, but hostile exchanges led to de-legitimization of opposing opinions.

Low-wage workers won't spring for health benefits

A new study published in Health Services Research suggests that even significant reductions in premiums may not encourage low-wage workers to purchase health insurance. The researchers found that the wage level of employees plays a crucial role in determining whether companies offer health benefits.

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New Center for Gravitational Wave Physics established at Penn State

The center supports an interdisciplinary team of scientists aiming to explore the first signals detected from gravitational waves generated by massive objects in the universe. Researchers anticipate collecting data from new detectors in the US, Europe, and Japan, plus a space-based detector.

Drug insurance coverage and prescription drug use

A study in Manitoba found that altering drug benefits led to reduced prescriptions for inhaled corticosteroids among children with severe and mild to moderate asthma. Higher-income neighbourhoods were disproportionately affected. The authors emphasize the need for policies not to deter patients from using essential medications.

Researchers make progress in understanding anthrax resistance

Scientists have discovered that variations in the Kif1C protein affect anthrax resistance in mice, potentially leading to better diagnostics and treatments. The research found that resistant strains had missense polymorphisms in the gene, increasing their ability to survive the toxin's effects.

Automated analytical platform facilitates identification of proteins

A new analytical platform has been developed to rapidly identify and characterize proteins. The system uses Fourier-Transform Mass Spectrometry and a liquid-helium cooled superconducting magnet to analyze protein data, enabling efficient processing of multiple proteins simultaneously.

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Doctors fail to promote physical activity

A study found that only 28% of adults received counseling on physical activity, despite 68% not exercising for the recommended 30 minutes a day. Health care providers were more likely to recommend exercise to certain groups, including women, older patients, and those with chronic illnesses.

Rural residents less likely to use preventive health services

Residents from rural areas are less likely to receive preventive health services compared to urban residents, largely due to limited access to healthcare facilities, specialists, and insurance. Cultural factors such as traditional values and reluctance to seek medical care may also contribute to this disparity.

NIH funds $3.9 million in new grants for autism research

The NIH has awarded $3.9 million in new grants to support innovative treatments for autism and establish a nationwide network of major research centers. The grants will focus on aspects such as speech therapy, imitation skills, and biological effects of medications.

Psychological factors implicated in development of asthma

A long-term study of 150 children reveals that parents' emotional state and coping mechanisms play a significant role in the development of asthma. The research highlights two main risk factors: elevated IgE levels at six months and parenting difficulties, which increase the likelihood of asthma by 2-3 times.

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