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Science News Archive April 2009 - Page 9


Page 9 of 24

PDAs, more education help doctors follow cholesterol treatment guidelines

A new study suggests that patients with high cholesterol receive better care when physicians use a variety of tools, including PDAs, to learn and apply clinical practice guidelines for treating the condition. This multifaceted strategy improved guideline adherence by reducing over-treatment and increasing appropriate treatment decisions.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateApr 22, 2009

Science Chicago a world-class success

The Science Chicago program is raising awareness about the significance of science in everyday life, offering opportunities for people of all ages to learn and have fun with science. The initiative features various activities, including Science Works!, Science Saturdays, LabFests! and Jr. Science Cafes.

Blood transfusions and outcomes

A comprehensive review of medical literature by experts found no evidence supporting beneficial effects from blood transfusions. Studies show associations with higher rates of complications like heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure, highlighting the need for restricted practice and safer storage methods.

Our penchant for rarity could threaten conservation efforts

A study published in PLOS ONE found that people are more attracted to rare species, leading to longer download times and increased attempts to access them. This perceived value of rarity poses a threat to conservation efforts, particularly in the context of ecotourism and exotic pet trade.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 21, 2009

Ability grouping in elementary school hampers minority students' literacy

A new study by University of Illinois professor Christy Lleras found that ability grouping in elementary school impairs the literacy of lower-grouped minority students, while having little effect on higher-grouped minority students. The practice creates larger achievement gaps among minority students and exacerbates inequality.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAmerican Journal of Education·DateApr 21, 2009

Louse infestation calibrates immune system regulation

Researchers studied louse infestation's effect on immune activity in wild wood mice, finding reduced readiness to mount an immune response. This suggests a potential immunosuppressive effect of the parasite, supporting the idea that modern human populations have heightened immune responsiveness due to reduced exposure to parasites.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Biology·DateApr 21, 2009

Witnessing violence affects kids' health

Exposure to community violence in school-aged children disrupts their normal cortisol production pattern, leading to physiological symptoms and potential long-term negative health effects. The study found a link between stress symptoms and cortisol levels, highlighting the need for healthcare providers to monitor these children's health.

SourceSpringer·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Medicine·DateApr 21, 2009