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Science News for February 28, 2005


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.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 28, 2005
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateFeb 28, 2005

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.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 28, 2005

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.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·DateFeb 28, 2005
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.

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.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 28, 2005

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.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 28, 2005

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.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 28, 2005

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.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 28, 2005
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.

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.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 28, 2005

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.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalPersonnel Psychology·DateFeb 28, 2005

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.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateFeb 28, 2005
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

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.

SourceAmerican Dietetic Association·JournalJournal of the American Dietetic Association·DateFeb 28, 2005

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.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·DateFeb 28, 2005

Widespread Arctic warming crosses critical ecological thresholds, scientists warn

A new international study suggests that climate change is causing dramatic changes in the community composition of freshwater algae, water fleas, and insect larvae in five circumpolar countries. The team's findings indicate that climate-related phenomena like receding ice cover in lakes are associated with these changes.

SourceQueen's University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2005

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.

SourceAssociated Bodywork and Massage Professionals·DateFeb 28, 2005

UAB scientists discover the origin of a mysterious physical force

Researchers Jordi Faraudo and Fernando Bresme discover hydration force's origins in water interactions with electrostatically charged molecules. Understanding this force is crucial for biomedical research and the development of new drugs and biochemical processes.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 28, 2005
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

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.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Behavior·DateFeb 28, 2005

'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.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateFeb 28, 2005

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.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateFeb 28, 2005

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.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateFeb 28, 2005
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

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.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 28, 2005

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.

SourceOregon State University·JournalGeology·DateFeb 28, 2005

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.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 28, 2005
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

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.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateFeb 28, 2005

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.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateFeb 28, 2005

High-fidelity patterns form spontaneously when solvent evaporates

Steve Granick and Zhiqun Lin found that patterns of high fidelity form spontaneously through evaporation of a droplet in a cylindrical mount. The process results in concentric rings with regular spacing, controlled by the material's size and surface properties.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 28, 2005

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.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateFeb 28, 2005

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.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 28, 2005
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

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.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Promotion·DateFeb 28, 2005

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.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalSexually Transmitted Diseases·DateFeb 28, 2005
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.

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.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalSleep Medicine Reviews·DateFeb 28, 2005

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.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateFeb 28, 2005

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.

SourceAmerican Society of Plastic Surgeons·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateFeb 28, 2005

US chemical companies' earnings continue to increase, C&EN survey reports

The US chemical industry saw significant earnings growth in Q4 2004, with total earnings rising 52% year-over-year to $9.58 billion. Sales increased 15.1% to $139.7 billion, driving aggregate profitability to 6.9%. Rising selling prices and strong demand fundamentals contributed to the growth.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 28, 2005
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

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%.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 28, 2005