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Science News for October 11, 1999


Women addicted to crack cocaine need many support services

A Penn State researcher found that nearly three-fourths of women addicted to crack cocaine engage in prostitution to support their habit, highlighting the need for comprehensive support services. The study suggests that programs should offer housing, education, and job training to help these women escape poverty and addiction

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Addictive Diseases·DateOct 11, 1999

Scientist show how viruses co-opt cell defenses to cause chronic infections likethose from HIV and Hepatitis B and C

Researchers have developed a model to study viral evasion and co-option of cellular defense strategies, revealing that persistent infection is achieved by suppressing cell suicide. Physiological changes occur, including slower growth and reduced virus infectivity over time.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 11, 1999

Jefferson scientists show drug is effective against a Hepatitis C Virus model in the laboratory

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University and Oxford University have found a promising drug against the hepatitis C virus (HCV), called N-nonyl-DNJ, which inhibits the activity of an important cellular enzyme, glucosidase. This drug may sidestep resistant viruses, a major problem with current treatments.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 11, 1999