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Science News Archive 2002 - Page 58


Page 58 of 93

Picturing your pain

Neuropathic pain is a complex condition that can be difficult to treat, but research suggests that psychological factors play a crucial role. Dr. Bushnell's work highlights the importance of catching pain early and treating it aggressively, as well as exploring alternative approaches such as meditation and drawing

Does pain get on your nerves?

Dr. James Henry studies the electrical activity of nerve cells to understand how pain is transmitted to the brain. He hopes to establish collaborations among pain researchers and medical professionals to improve treatment options for patients suffering from chronic pain.

Dealing with death

Dr. Robin Cohen developed the McGill Quality of Life (MQOL) Questionnaire to measure existential, physical, psychological, and social well-being in terminally ill patients. She emphasizes the importance of addressing cognition, emotion, and spiritual aspects of pain management.

Hush little baby

Dr. Johnston's research focuses on reducing infant pain in preterm babies, finding skin-to-skin contact and sugar administration can be effective soothing methods. She also coaches pediatric nurses and promotes a pain awareness campaign to improve treatment options for infants and their families.

From a single DNA strand, a tiny motor

A University of Florida chemistry professor has created a nanomotor from a single DNA strand, which is more practical and easier to control than previous designs. The device can be used in biosensors to detect specific DNA sequences related to disease and may also play a role in clinical treatment by targeting cancer cells with precision.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalNano Letters·DateMay 16, 2002

'Warm to the touch' gene found

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have identified the first temperature-sensing molecule found in keratinocytes, the major type of cell in the skin, which can detect warm and hot temperatures above 33°C. This discovery opens up new possibilities for pain therapeutics.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalScience·DateMay 16, 2002

Outpatient treatment is as effective as inpatient treatment for PID

A new study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that outpatient antibiotic treatment for PID is just as effective as inpatient treatment. The study, known as PEACH, involved 831 women with PID and showed no significant differences in outcomes between those treated inpatient or outpatient.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateMay 15, 2002

Pattern recognition receptors on mast cells

Pattern recognition receptors on mast cells play a crucial role in triggering an immune response and modulating inflammation. This receptor activation leads to the release of histamine and other pro-inflammatory mediators, contributing to various diseases such as allergic reactions and asthma.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 15, 2002

The Lancet Neurology press release

Researchers explore the role of dopamine in the placebo effect, which shows promise for treating Parkinson's disease, depression, and pain. Meanwhile, preclinical studies on bone-marrow stromal cells suggest potential therapeutic benefits for neural injury treatments like stroke.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateMay 15, 2002

End of 'free ride' on ecosystem CO2 absorption

A study led by Duke University ecologist Robert Jackson found that soil nitrogen availability constrains the capacity of ecosystems to absorb increased atmospheric CO2. The research suggests that natural systems will no longer be able to take up excess carbon dioxide, emphasizing the need for stringent emissions controls.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·DateMay 15, 2002

A new role for a versatile stem cell

A recent study published in JCI Journals reveals that a versatile stem cell can be repurposed to enhance tissue repair and regeneration in various tissues. The researchers discovered that the stem cell can differentiate into multiple cell types to facilitate the healing process.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 15, 2002