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Science News for September 9, 2004


Breathing and mental health problems widespread among Ground Zero rescue and recovery workers

A Mount Sinai study found that nearly three-quarters of WTC responders experienced upper respiratory issues, with half still experiencing symptoms eight months later. Over half had persistent psychological symptoms, with risks for PTSD four times that of the general male population.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalMMWR Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report·DateSep 9, 2004

New treatment for fibromyalgia

A recent clinical trial demonstrated the effectiveness of duloxetine in reducing pain and improving disease symptoms in female fibromyalgia patients. The study showed significant improvements in tender point measures and pressure pain threshold, with benefits also observed in emotional and physical functioning.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateSep 9, 2004

Newborns have ear preferences, too

Researchers found that newborn babies' right ears are more responsive to speech-type stimuli, while their left ears are more responsive to tonal sounds. This suggests that the auditory system develops differently on each side of the brain from birth.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalScience·DateSep 9, 2004

Managing lupus with prasterone

A year-long clinical trial found that prasterone improved disease activity, reduced organ damage, and boosted health-related quality of life for women with active lupus. The treatment, which is safe and effective, could offer an alternative to immunosuppressive agents or large doses of glucocorticoids.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateSep 9, 2004

Hepatitis C recurrence after liver transplantation

A study found that patients who received liver transplants from living donors are more likely to experience severe Hepatitis C recurrence. The research, led by Xavier Forns, investigated the effect of donor life status on HCV patient outcomes and discovered a significant association between living donor transplantation and severe disea...

SourceWiley·JournalHepatology·DateSep 9, 2004

Primary-care research is not a lost cause

Primary-care research is criticized for its weakness, but experts argue that reliable evidence is needed to support clinical practice. Effective primary care research influences clinical practice and improves healthcare. Improved investment in high-quality research is necessary to attract top researchers.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 9, 2004