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Science News Archive December 2003 - Page 8


Page 8 of 9

Childhood sleep-disordered breathing severity related to tonsil size, oropharyngeal volume

Research reveals that children with narrow retropalatal air spaces have more severe SDB due to significantly larger tonsil and soft palate CSAs. The study found a significant correlation between OAHI and oropharyngeal volume, indicating the importance of pharyngeal geometry and soft tissue anatomy in determining SDB severity.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·DateDec 3, 2003

Students get insider's view of Earth

A University of Michigan professor is developing new computer animations to help students better understand the Earth's structure and internal processes. His approach complements existing techniques, allowing students to progress from simpler models to more complex representations.

Origin of multiple myeloma found in rare stem cell

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered a rare stem cell in multiple myeloma that gives rise to malignant bone marrow plasma cells. Current treatments may not be effective against this errant stem cell, leading scientists to explore dual-therapy approaches to target both the visible and root causes of the disease.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalBlood·DateDec 3, 2003

Whites, African-Americans better rate medical care experiences when seeing same-race physicians

A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that patients who see the same race physician have longer visits and higher satisfaction ratings. The longer visit times may be due to patients speaking slower when they feel more comfortable with their physician's background, which can lead to better communication and patient experiences.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 3, 2003

Patients stop meds when benefit changes

A study by Harvard Medical School found that employees treated for chronic illnesses stop taking necessary medications when benefit changes occur, particularly with substantial co-payment increases. Employers who implemented larger co-payment hikes saw higher rates of medication non-adherence and changes in medication regimens.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 3, 2003

Can EPO prevent loss of brain function in schizophrenia?

A new study explores the potential of erythropoietin (EPO) as a neuroprotective agent for schizophrenia. EPO was found to penetrate the blood-brain barrier and enhance cognitive functioning in patients with schizophrenia. The results suggest that EPO may be a promising compound for preventing loss of brain function in this disease.

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateDec 3, 2003

Utah's redrock may have changed global climate

Researchers found evidence suggesting that the Navajo Sandstone in Utah may have been a large hydrocarbon reservoir, releasing bleaching gas into the atmosphere. The study suggests that this release could have influenced Earth's ancient climate and had significant implications for global carbon fluxes.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalGeology·DateDec 3, 2003

Timing of IQ test can be a life or death matter

A recent study found that IQ tests taken at different times can result in vastly different diagnoses, with potential consequences for life or death sentences. The 'Flynn effect' causes IQ scores to rise over time, making it essential to reset the test every 15-20 years.

SourceCornell University·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateDec 3, 2003

Experts debate the future of nanotechnology

Experts K. Eric Drexler and Richard E. Smalley disagree on the possibility of molecular assemblers, devices that can precisely manipulate atoms and molecules. Drexler proposes guiding chemical synthesis with reactive molecules, while Smalley questions the feasibility of such devices.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateDec 2, 2003

Self-management improves course of low back pain

A self-management program improved mental and physical functioning in low-income adults with low back pain. The study, funded by the NIH and VA, showed empowering individuals to deal with their pain through exercise and behavior changes significantly reduced symptoms.

SourceIndiana University·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateDec 2, 2003