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Science News for August 5, 2004


Spiders or scapegoats

A study challenges the common perception that spiders cause many diseases, including skin ulcers and flesh-eating skin disease. In reality, spider bites are rare and generally harmless, while other causes of these conditions are more likely.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 5, 2004

Avalanche of change

The Ecological Society of America symposium explores ecological recovery after the 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption, revealing remarkable resilience in some species and dramatic transformation of Spirit Lake. Researchers discuss the importance of chance events, life history characteristics, and timing in ecological recovery.

Research aims to improve safety at sea

The Cardiff University Research Unit aims to inform policy makers and prevent accidents by focusing on the human element of seafaring. With £500,000 funding from Lloyd's Register, the unit will draw on expertise within the Seafarers' International Research Centre.

Younger men lead surge in Viagra use, study reveals

A recent study by Express Scripts reveals a significant surge in Viagra use among younger men, with increases of 312% and 216% among those aged 18-45 and 46-55 years respectively. Meanwhile, growth in use slowed among women and older men, highlighting concerns over the coverage of lifestyle medications like Viagra.

SourceExpress Scripts, Inc.·JournalInternational Journal of Impotence Research·DateAug 5, 2004

3-D irradiation of brain cancer in children spares IQ, memory, other cognitive functions

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that 3D radiation therapy can effectively treat brain cancer in children without impairing cognitive development. The research suggests that radiation therapy can be a viable treatment option for young children, offering hope to families affected by this type of cancer.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateAug 5, 2004

Rheumatoid arthritis and early indicators of disease

A study found increased levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) in the blood of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), even those without autoantibodies. The findings suggest that early inflammation is a key factor in RA development, potentially serving as a predictive marker for future symptomatic inflammation.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateAug 5, 2004

A new marker for osteoarthritis

Researchers found a strong correlation between a peptide fragment of type II collagen (CTX-II) and the prevalence and progression of osteoarthritis (OA), particularly at the knee and hip. CTX-II levels were associated with increased risk and severity of OA, including rapid joint destruction.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateAug 5, 2004