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Science News Archive October 2003 - Page 9


Page 9 of 10

Forgiveness a factor in blood pressure

A new study finds that forgiveness is associated with lower resting diastolic blood pressure, especially among low-income black individuals. The research, conducted on a diverse sample of community residents, suggests that forgiving oneself and others may help mitigate cardiovascular risk factors.

Commonly-held belief contributes to patients' rejection of recommended lung cancer surgery

A study found that nearly 40% of lung cancer patients believe exposure to air during surgery promotes cancer spread, leading some to reject recommended surgery. The study suggests that physicians need to address these misconceptions to improve healthcare outcomes in African Americans, who are disproportionately affected by lung cancer.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateOct 6, 2003

Deadly decision: Where should baby sleep?

New research from Saint Louis University shows that babies under 8 months are at highest risk of death in adult beds due to lack of motor skills to escape safety threats. The study recommends cribs as the safest option for babies' sleep, and calls for a public awareness campaign to alert parents.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateOct 6, 2003

UCI study uncovers unexpectedly high air pollutant levels in southwest states

A UCI study found unexpectedly high hydrocarbon levels in central and southwest US regions, including Oklahoma City, with pollution levels exceeding those in high-smog cities. The research suggests total hydrocarbon emissions are higher than previously estimated, contributing to the American air pollution problem.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 6, 2003

Driving performance declines with dementia and age

People with mild dementia decline faster than nondemented individuals in driving performance, but also some nondemented participants show decline. Longitudinal driving test every six months can identify those who become unsafe, increasing awareness about driving issues in demented persons and empowering families to intervene.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 3, 2003

PTH and Alendronate: combining treatments shows no bone density advantage

Two studies found that combining parathyroid hormone (PTH) and alendronate increases bone mineral density (BMD) at least as well as or better than single drug treatment. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal effects of these drugs, particularly through sequential or cyclic therapy.

Gastric bypass surgery resolves or improves diabetes in most patients, reports Pittsburgh study

The study found that gastric bypass surgery significantly improved diabetes outcomes in patients, with nearly all achieving normal blood sugar levels and reducing their reliance on anti-diabetic medications. Patients with shorter disease durations and milder type 2 diabetes saw the greatest improvements in glycemic control.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateOct 2, 2003

Tufts University wins $25-million NIH contract

Tufts University has been awarded a $25-million NIH contract to collaborate with the University of Massachusetts on developing ways to diagnose and treat botulism poisoning, one of the most dangerous bioterrorism threats facing the US. The research will focus on identifying human pathogens that can cause disease in food or water.