Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for September 12, 2006


Black-white IQ gap has narrowed

Researchers found that the cognitive ability gap between blacks and whites has decreased significantly since 1972, with blacks making notable gains in cognitive tests. The study's findings suggest a possible correlation between social equality progress and IQ gains, potentially indicating further improvements.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 12, 2006

Effect of direct-to-consumer drug ads unexpected

A study found that direct-to-consumer advertising of Vioxx increased the proportion of osteoarthritis patient visits for which a prescription was written for Vioxx. However, Celebrex ads were associated with higher rates of Vioxx prescribing, but not significant changes in Celebrex prescriptions.

SourcePenn State·JournalHealth Affairs·DateSep 12, 2006

Cold shot

Scientists have developed a new technique to detect uranium in contaminated soil by freezing the sample and blasting it with an ultraviolet laser. This method, known as cryogenic fluorescence spectroscopy, allows for sharper resolution of spectral fingerprints and detection of different forms of uranium.

New VEE virus protein structure marks first step to developing effective therapy

Scientists at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston have determined the precise structure of the VEE virus protein required for replication. This achievement marks an important step toward developing effective drug therapies against the virus, which can cause widespread infections and death in Central and South America.

Reducing side effects of painkillers

Researchers at Cardiff University have found a link between low nitric oxide levels and increased risk of heart attack and stroke in patients taking NSAIDs. Lower nitric oxide levels may make individuals more susceptible to cardiovascular side effects from these medications.

SourceCardiff University·JournalBlood·DateSep 12, 2006

Updated sleep apnea screening recommended for commercial drivers

The American College of Chest Physicians, along with the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine and the National Sleep Foundation, has released updated recommendations for screening and managing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) among commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators. The guidelines aim to identify drivers at h...

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateSep 12, 2006

UC Davis researchers find added benefit of statins in those at high risk for heart disease, diabetes

Study suggests that statins may be beneficial for preventing complications of metabolic syndrome, a condition characterized by low-grade inflammation and insulin resistance. The researchers found marked reductions in inflammatory biomarkers and improvements in vascular health in patients treated with statins.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateSep 12, 2006

Penn study suggests a new type of pain reliever that may benefit the heart

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have found that deleting an inflammation enzyme in mice slowed the development of atherosclerosis. The study suggests that a new class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may benefit the heart and reduce its risk of disease.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 12, 2006