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Science News Archive February 2005


Page 1 of 13

Medication errors common at the time of hospital admission

A study found that 53.6% of patients had at least one unintended medication discrepancy upon hospital admission. The most common error was omitting a regularly used medication, with 38.6% having the potential to cause moderate to severe discomfort or clinical deterioration.

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Modeled climate and land-use change threatens plant species

A study by Lee Hannah predicts that climate change and land-use changes will increase the risk of extinction for most protea species, with up to 15% expected to lose their range entirely. The Cape region's protected areas may offer lessons for global conservation efforts.

Rabies spread speeds up

Rabies experts predict that raccoon rabies could spread rapidly across Ohio, with the virus potentially covering the state within 41 months. The study suggests that a strategic approach to controlling the spread of the disease is needed, including early detection and high-powered intervention programs.

Sleep loss increases cardiovascular disease in alcoholics

A new study reveals that sleep loss significantly increases cardiovascular disease risk in alcoholics, disrupting heart rate and sympathetic catecholamine levels. Behavioral treatments may help alleviate sleep abnormalities and related physiological issues.

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Forgoing of end of life treatment varies in European countries

A study of six European countries found significant variations in end-of-life nontreatment decisions, with medication being the most frequently forgone treatment. Low-technology interventions were also common, particularly among older patients outside hospital settings.

The chimp genome reveals retroviral invasions in primate evolution

A recent study published in PLOS Biology has uncovered a retrovirus not found in human genomes but present in African great apes and Old World monkeys. The authors estimate that gorillas and chimps were infected around 3-4 million years ago, while baboons and macaques were infected about 1.5 million years ago.

Screening patients with osteoporosis for celiac disease appears worthwhile

Researchers found that patients with osteoporosis had a significantly higher prevalence of celiac disease than those without osteoporosis. Treatment with a gluten-free diet resulted in improved bone mineral density in individuals with celiac disease and osteoporosis, making serologic screening worthwhile for this population.

Treatment of sleep apnea lowers glucose levels in diabetics

A study by University of Illinois Chicago researchers reveals that continuous positive airway pressure therapy can significantly reduce glucose levels in diabetic patients. This reduction in glucose levels can help prevent late-stage complications such as cardiovascular and kidney disease.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers uncover scaffolds in the brain's wiring diagram

Neuroscientist Dmitri Chklovskii's study reveals non-random patterns of local connectivity in the rat brain, suggesting functional modules that process information. The researchers found that strong connections account for half of synaptic strength and play a crucial role in brain function.

Firing poor-performing employees may improve work quality

A computer simulation study found that firing poorly performing employees can lead to significant improvements in workforce quality. The study showed an average annual improvement of 16% for the first two years and 2% thereafter, with the greatest benefits seen when reliable rating systems are used.

Many company benefits can help parents meet needs of children with ADHD

A survey of 41 employers found that many companies provide significant services that could help families affected by ADHD, including flexible work hours, family leave arrangements, and child care assistance. Employers are often unaware of the availability of these services or lack awareness about the needs of parents with ADHD.

Highlights of the March Journal of the American Dietetic Association

The Women's Healthy Eating and Living Study found that a diet high in vegetables, fruit, and fiber can reduce the recurrence of breast cancer. The Coronary Health Improvement Project also showed improvements in participants' health and reduced risk of chronic diseases through education and lifestyle changes.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

OHSU researchers study communication disorders in autism

Researchers analyze prosody and communication in autism, finding children with autism understand social-emotional information better with enhanced prosody. They aim to create a sharper understanding of core issues and differences between children with different forms of communication disorders.

Massage therapy: A profession on the rise

A national survey found that 96% of those who received at least one massage in 2004 have favorable feelings toward massage therapists. The profession is also gaining acceptance among younger adults, with 58% of those under age 50 holding favorable views.

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Youth with HIV take more risks after new meds introduced

A recent study found that youth with HIV who were treated with highly active antiretroviral therapies (HAART) between 1999 and 2000 reported having more sexual partners, unprotected sex, and drug use compared to those treated before 1996. The researchers suggest targeted interventions are needed to address these risk behaviors.

'Venom doc' tracks down snake bioweapons

Researchers found that 21 snake venom toxins originated from proteins in various body tissues, including brain, eye, and liver. This discovery sheds light on the evolution of these potent toxins and their potential use in medical research.

Brain stimulation treats resistant depression

A six-month study led by Helen Mayberg found that deep brain stimulation improved mood and reduced symptoms in severely depressed patients, with three achieving remission. The procedure was well-tolerated, with no psychological side effects reported.

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.

Mystery blood vessel disorder implicated in 'mini' strokes

A study published in Annals of Neurology found a strong association between dolichoectasia, a rare blood vessel disorder, and small vessel disease, a significant cause of lacunar or 'mini' strokes. The research may offer new insights into the causes and treatment of this condition.

Tip sheet for the Annals of Internal Medicine, March 1, 2005

Two studies examine the prevention of type 2 diabetes mellitus, a condition that affects millions of Americans. Researchers found positive lifestyle changes lowered risk among nonsmokers but not smokers. A computer simulation determined the diet-exercise program and metformin therapy were cost-effective options.

Hawaiian volcano may be health risk

A recent study published in Geology found that Kilauea's sulfur dioxide emissions can cause bronchial irritation, trigger asthma attacks, and potentially lead to cardiac problems. The researchers recommend establishing monitoring in the region directly south of the volcano to better understand the health risks.

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Medication awareness key to catching error: Study

A recent study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that medication errors are a significant issue in hospitalized patients. The study examined 151 patients who took at least four prescription medicines at home and had unplanned hospital admissions, revealing that 53.6% had at least one unintended medication discrepancy.

Analysis shows drug could save lives from prostate cancer

The study found finasteride reduced the incidence of prostate cancer by 24.8% compared to a placebo, potentially saving thousands of lives over ten years. Despite an increase in high-grade tumors, the analysis shows that this benefit outweighs the potential drawbacks.

Deciphering DiGeorge syndrome

Researchers have deciphered a crucial link between genetic microdeletions and DiGeorge syndrome, shedding light on the disease's pathogenesis. The study reveals that TGF signaling plays a pivotal role in neural crest development, which is disrupted in DiGeorge patients leading to characteristic malformations.

Protein discovery could unlock the secret to better TB treatment

A study published in Nature Structural & Molecular Biology has uncovered the structure of resuscitation promoting factor (Rpf), a key player in TB bacteria. The discovery holds promise for developing new methods to 'wake-up' dormant bacteria, allowing antibiotics to kill and cure the disease.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Newly discovered protein an important tool for sleeping sickness research

Scientists have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the mechanism behind African sleeping sickness by discovering a new protein called JBP2. This protein is believed to play an important role in regulating the production of base J, a unique modified DNA base that enables trypanosomes to evade the human immune system.

Urban green space linked to walking, cycling levels

A study of 34 metropolitan areas found that San Francisco and New York City had high percentages of people who walk or bike for recreation and transportation, respectively. Parkland acreage was also positively associated with walking and bicycling levels, suggesting a link between urban green spaces and physical activity.

Risk of herpes infection rises with oral sex

A University of Pittsburgh study documents an increase in genital herpes infections linked to receptive oral sex and vaginal intercourse. The risk is higher among young women, who are increasingly susceptible to HSV-1 infection due to a decline in childhood cases.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Rest easy: MIT study confirms melatonin's value as sleep aid

A recent MIT study analyzed 17 peer-reviewed papers on melatonin and found it to be a significant sleep aid in small doses. The study challenges the common assumption that high doses of melatonin are ineffective, highlighting the need for more accurate dosing information.

Child sex-trafficking study in Bosnia reveals misperceptions

A recent study in Bosnia-Herzegovina found that child sex trafficking is often fueled by extreme poverty and family involvement, rather than organized crime. The report highlights the need to address poverty and ethnic discrimination to reduce exploitation of impoverished children.

Cosmetic surgery epidemic among young adults a myth

A study of 559 college-age women found that despite common perceptions, a significant number have not undergone cosmetic surgery. The research suggests that those who care more about physical appearance are more likely to view cosmetic surgery as an option.

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Diabetes prevention efforts worth every penny

A new study found that pre-diabetes prevention efforts are worth every penny, with a one-on-one weight loss and exercise program showing a 58% reduction in Type 2 diabetes risk. Lifestyle interventions could delay the onset of diabetes by an average of 11 years and reduce the risk of developing diabetes by 20%.

In monkeys, a spatial-memory gender gap closes with age

A new study on Rhesus monkeys found that a gender gap in spatial memory decreases with age and can be overcome with simple training. Young female monkeys showed significant improvements in spatial memory when trained, closing the gap between males and females.

Tailing the cause of a rare heart disease

Researchers identified the EYA4 gene as the cause of dilated cardiomyopathy preceded by sensorineural hearing loss. The mutant protein compromises cardiac function by reducing its presence in the nucleus, leading to dramatic heart failure and pumping velocity reduction.

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Dual testing better for monitoring new cases of HIV

A Johns Hopkins Medicine study successfully integrated the Affinity/Avidity test with the STARHS protocol to detect new HIV cases. The dual testing method showed a significant reduction in false positive diagnoses, resulting in more accurate monitoring of new infections.

Patient knows best when it comes to ulcerative colitis, U-M study finds

Researchers at U-M Health System found that disease severity in patients with ulcerative colitis can be accurately evaluated without frequent lower endoscopies. The study suggests using non-invasive indices, such as patient-reported symptoms, to monitor disease activity and spare patients the discomfort of regular endoscopies.

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

New binding target for oncogenic viral protein

Research reveals that SV40 large T antigen binds to tumor suppressor Fbw7, hijacking its function to promote tumorigenesis. This interaction highlights the importance of Fbw7 as a potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment strategies.

AGI publishes 43rd edition of the Directory of Geoscience Departments

The 43rd edition of the Directory of Geoscience Departments features a state-sorted listing of 1,169 geoscience departments worldwide, including 879 U.S.-based departments that grant degrees. The directory also provides faculty contact information and listings for U.S. state geological surveys.

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

LRRK2 gene mutation causes Parkinson's disease in several families

A recent study found that the LRRK2 gene mutation is associated with Parkinson's disease in several families, indicating a genetic component of the disease. The mutation was identified in 22 out of 42 family members who carried the G2019S mutation, and all shared a common ancestral pattern.