Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for May 3, 2005


Other highlights in the May 4 JNCI

A new study found that increasing Pap screening adherence and improving its accuracy could reduce the incidence of invasive cervical cancer among women with access to screening. The study also identified factors associated with screening failure, including lack of Pap testing and unrelated outpatient visits.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMay 3, 2005

Rutgers' Tabasco Sauce connection

Researchers at Rutgers are studying the effects of plant extracts on metabolic syndrome, a condition characterized by obesity, hypertension, and high insulin levels. The center aims to identify chemical compounds with therapeutic potential and develop new treatments for this growing public health concern.

Jefferson scientists create plant factories churning out antibodies against tumor cells

Researchers from Thomas Jefferson University have successfully created plant factories that produce antibodies against tumor cells, offering a potential alternative to expensive and traditional methods. The plant-made antibodies show similar effectiveness in inhibiting tumor growth as mammalian-made monoclonal antibodies.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 3, 2005

MDCT accurate for diagnosing coronary artery disease in patients with no to moderate calcification

A study published in the American Journal of Roentgenology found that MDCT is highly accurate in diagnosing coronary artery disease in patients with little to moderate calcium buildup. However, its accuracy drops significantly in cases with severe calcification, emphasizing the need for conventional angiography in such cases.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateMay 3, 2005

Diabetes and pizza: Slow and steady insulin delivery wins the race

A new study found that spacing out insulin given by an insulin pump in two doses, one over eight hours, can keep glucose levels more favorable than a single dose or double dose taken over shorter periods. This method showed improved blood glucose control after a pizza meal without causing hypoglycemic events.

SourcePenn State·JournalDiabetes Technology & Therapeutics·DateMay 3, 2005

Museum rescues 'endangered' recordings

The Field Museum is preserving the audio descriptions of its prized Pacific collection, recorded on sonobands in the 1950s and 60s. The project involves converting the recordings to a digital format, which has proven challenging due to the deterioration of the sonoband medium over time.

Study examines influence of celebrity endorsements of cancer screening

A telephone survey found that celebrity endorsements increased awareness and likelihood of certain cancer screenings, including mammography, PSA testing, and sigmoidoscopy. The study highlights the complex decision-making process around cancer screening, suggesting a need for celebrities to inform rather than persuade the public.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMay 3, 2005