Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for February 25, 2003


Bacterial infections alter allergic response

A recent study suggests that bacterial infections can modify the allergic response, potentially preventing asthma and allergies in children. The research found that mice infected with M. pneumoniae showed a milder reaction to allergens than control mice.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalInfection and Immunity·DateFeb 25, 2003

Internet use may benefit survival of minority/ethnic breast cancer patients

A study found that minority breast cancer patients who used the internet for medical information experienced greater social support, which was associated with better mental and physical health outcomes. The research suggests that internet use may help prolong survival among these patients.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalPsycho-Oncology·DateFeb 25, 2003
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Engineers take new look at strength of industrial glass

Researchers have improved a method for measuring the strength of E-glass and other glass fibers, revealing it may be more than one and a half times stronger than previously recorded measurements. This discovery could help expand applications for glass fibers in industries such as automotive manufacturing.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Non-Crystalline Solids·DateFeb 25, 2003

Breast cancer patients suffer through communication failure

A study by German researchers found nearly half breast cancer patients struggle with incomprehensible or incomplete information, while over half want more opportunities to discuss their treatment. The report emphasizes the importance of improving communication between medical staff and patients.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateFeb 25, 2003

New contraceptive microbicide in clinical trials

BufferGel, a vaginal microbicide, maintains normal vaginal acidity to kill sperm and germs, preventing pregnancy. The compound is currently in advanced clinical trials for its ability to block HIV transmission.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateFeb 25, 2003
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Software uses in-road detectors to alleviate traffic jams

A new software developed by Ohio State University engineer Benjamin Coifman uses data from in-road detectors to pinpoint traffic congestion and measure travel time. This technology can improve traffic monitoring while minimizing disruptions to drivers, reducing the financial costs of traffic jams.

SourceOhio State University·JournalTransportation Research·DateFeb 25, 2003

Canaries in a coal mine?

A comprehensive volume addresses key hypotheses for amphibian declines, including non-native species, UV radiation, and climate change. The study highlights the urgent need for conservation research to address this biodiversity crisis.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalDiversity and Distributions·DateFeb 25, 2003
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Analysis calls surgery effective epilepsy option

A comprehensive review of research findings shows that surgery is a superior treatment option for disabling seizures caused by mesial temporal lobe epilepsy, with better quality of life and reduced medication use. The analysis also found low surgical morbidity and mortality rates, making it an attractive alternative to medication.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNeurology·DateFeb 25, 2003

Doctors should provide more information about medical errors

Patients want to know if there was an error, how it happened, and what steps will be taken to prevent future occurrences. Doctors often hide or minimize this information due to concerns about lawsuits or patient trust, but this can lead to further upset and mistrust.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJAMA·DateFeb 25, 2003