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Science News Archive December 2007 - Page 12


Page 12 of 16

Making emergency artery repair safer

Catheters equipped with balloons, lasers, and miniature drills can treat tears in arteries, improving safety for emergency repairs. The technology has reduced the risk of life-threatening bleeding from vessel punctures during angioplasty procedures.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalJournal of Interventional Cardiology·DateDec 6, 2007

Patients need to know that nuclear medicine procedures can trigger radiation alarms

A study highlights the need for improved patient information and counseling on nuclear medicine procedures, which can trigger radiation alarms in public places. Healthcare professionals, especially those in outpatient facilities, require formal training and standardization of instructions to ensure patient safety.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateDec 6, 2007

A new approach to study flu drug resistance

Researchers developed a new method to assess the danger of flu drug resistance emergence, combining human infection data with a mathematical framework. The study found that immune response plays a crucial role in determining the likelihood of resistant infections spreading.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateDec 6, 2007

PET and bioluminescent imaging aid evaluation of stem cells' potential for new ways to treat disease

Researchers used PET imaging and bioluminescence to track stem cell behavior in small animal models, determining their fate and potential applications in treating heart diseases, brain disorders, and cancer. The unique combination of these imaging techniques offers a reliable method for labeling stem cells.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateDec 6, 2007

Caffeine cream tones thighs

A Brazilian study found that a 7 percent caffeine solution cream reduced thigh circumference by over 80% and hip measurements by nearly 68%. However, the effect on cellulite was less clear, with imaging showing little change. The researchers speculate that the trial may not have been long enough for the cream to act on cellulite.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalJournal of Cosmetic Dermatology·DateDec 6, 2007

Diesel exhaust fumes affect people with asthma, finds study on London's Oxford Street

A new study by Imperial College London found that diesel exhaust fumes increase asthmatic symptoms, reduce lung capacity, and cause inflammation in people with mild and moderate asthma. The research measured air quality and lung function in volunteers walking along Oxford Street, where only diesel-powered vehicles are allowed.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 5, 2007

Biomarkers for inflammatory disease

Researchers characterized gene expression patterns in Kawasaki disease patients, identifying innate immune mechanisms and proinflammatory responses. The study supports the use of gene-expression profiles to generate biomarkers for other systemic inflammatory illnesses, improving diagnosis and treatment options.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Biology·DateDec 5, 2007

Study questions impact of hemoglobin variations on mortality in dialysis patients

A recent study published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology suggests that persistently low hemoglobin levels in dialysis patients increase their risk of death, while fluctuating levels do not. The research used data from nearly 160,000 patients to analyze the effects of hemoglobin variability on mortality rates.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateDec 5, 2007

How stress alleviates pain

Researchers found that stress hormone noradrenaline suppresses pain inputs from the brainstem, reducing neurotransmitter launch and triggering nerve impulses. The study provides important mechanistic clues to understanding stress-induced analgesia.

Odd little star has magnetic personality

A team of astronomers, led by Dr. Edo Berger, have observed a surprisingly active magnetic field on the ultracool low-mass star TVLM513-46546, challenging the theory that cooler stars are simple and quiet. The star's complex magnetic field environment may indicate unusual activity beneath its surface or possibly even an unseen companion.

Reviewers agree on osteoarthritis of the knee

A review of six knee osteoarthritis treatment guidelines found significant differences in recommended treatments, with a focus on acetaminophen, NSAIDs, and exercise. The study highlights the need for more detailed educational interventions to improve guideline applicability.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateDec 5, 2007