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Science News for November 18, 2002


Blood proteins tied to inflammation

Researchers found that high levels of C-reactive protein and low albumin are associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease in dialysis patients. The study, which followed over 1,000 patients for four months, found that these proteins can identify patients at high risk before heart events occur.

LSUHSC research shows drug blocks enzyme that activates bacterial and viral toxins

A new peptide, D6R, has been developed by LSUHSC researchers to block the action of an enzyme that activates toxic proteins in bacteria and viruses. The peptide was found to protect cells from lethal toxins without triggering a cytokine response, offering potential as a treatment for sepsis and other infections.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalInfection and Immunity·DateNov 18, 2002

Life expectancy following diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease depends on age at diagnosis

The study found that median survival times for Alzheimer's patients vary significantly depending on the age at diagnosis, ranging from nearly 9 years for those diagnosed at 65 to approximately 3 years for those diagnosed at 90. Additionally, researchers reported an average time of 2.8 years between symptom onset and diagnosis.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateNov 18, 2002

Nation's two largest medical specialty groups issue migraine treatment guidelines

The American College of Physicians and the American Academy of Family Physicians have released new guidelines for treating migraines, recommending immediate treatment with NSAIDs or triptans, as well as managing nausea and vomiting symptoms. The guidelines also emphasize the importance of patient involvement in charting migraines and i...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateNov 18, 2002

American Thoracic Society Journal news tips for November (second issue)

Researchers found that halting COPD treatment with inhaled corticosteroids increases exacerbation risk and worsens quality of life. Men are more prone to pharyngeal collapse due to longer airways, which may contribute to their higher obstructive sleep apnea risk. Additionally, patients with OSA showed reduced brain gray matter volume, ...

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 18, 2002