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Science News for October 1, 2003


Baby boomers beware

A recent study found that nearly two-thirds of US elderly have unmet needs for help with daily activities, whereas in Sweden, less than four percent experience such gaps. The US healthcare policy has been criticized for directing few resources towards community-based services.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Gerontologist·DateOct 1, 2003

A dangerous duo: Heart disease and diabetes

Researchers have discovered a potential therapeutic target for treating hyperglycemic damage in endothelial cells, which is linked to both diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Inhibiting GAPDH activity by poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase could activate three major pathways of damage, providing new avenues for treatment.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 1, 2003

M. D. Anderson expands peer counseling program for African-American breast cancer survivors

The Sisters Peer Counseling in Reproductive Health after Treatment (SPIRIT) program provides free peer counseling to address concerns faced by African-American breast cancer survivors. The four-year study aims to empower survivors and address cultural and socio-economic factors that contribute to conservative attitudes about sexuality.

JCI Table of Contents, 1 October, 2003

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have developed a strategy using erythropoietin to enhance heart function and prevent cell death after ischemic injury. A novel protective effect of erythropoietin has been shown in the infarcted heart, demonstrating a therapeutic window of opportunity for acute protection and long-term pres...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 1, 2003

Gender and geography increase racial disparities in health care, Dartmouth study shows

A Dartmouth study analyzing Medicare data from 1998-2000 found that racial disparities in knee replacement surgery exist not only by sex but also by geographic location. Despite similar rates among African-American women and white women, black men were half as likely to undergo the procedure as their white counterparts.

SourceThe Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 1, 2003

A realistic way to save rainforests

Researchers have developed a novel approach to conserve rainforests by finding potential pharmaceuticals, contributing to conservation efforts, and providing economic benefits. The pilot project in Panama demonstrates the feasibility of this method, creating jobs and infrastructure while protecting the rainforest.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateOct 1, 2003

Pneumococcal vaccine significantly reduces disease in South African children

A South African clinical trial showed a significant reduction in pneumococcal disease incidence with the conjugate vaccine, resulting in a 5% decrease among all children and a 6% decrease among HIV-infected children. The study demonstrates the vaccine's effectiveness in preventing invasive pneumococcal disease and saving lives.

SourceEmory University Health Sciences Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 1, 2003

October 2004 Ophthalmology journal

This edition of the Ophthalmology journal presents significant research findings on PRK after 12 years, multifocal intraocular lenses, and posterior capsule opacification. The studies also investigate photorefractive keratectomy outcomes, LASIK lens power calculation methods, and new treatments for glaucoma and retinal diseases.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateOct 1, 2003