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Science News for April 24, 2002


Much ado about nanotubes

Carbon nanotubes have been shown to exhibit exceptional mechanical properties, enabling the creation of high-speed electronic devices. The breakthrough could lead to the development of hand-held DNA detectors, superfast optical detectors, and computer chip speeds faster than current Pentium processors.

Firstborn: First risk for heart disease?

Researchers found that 46.7% of coronary heart disease patients were firstborn, with lower rates of cigarette smoking and similar risk factors compared to younger siblings. The study suggests primogeniture as an independent predisposing determinant of CHD, which should be taken into account when assessing global patient risk.

Teen habitual smokers more receptive to cigarette ads, think they can quit anytime

A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that teen habitual smokers who believed they could quit anytime had a higher risk of progressing to established smoking. Teenagers who were highly receptive to tobacco advertising also had a higher risk, with 70% more likely to have progressed to established smoking.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateApr 24, 2002

Navy's new 'gunk-o-lyzer'?

The LaserNet Fines instrument uses algorithms based on neural networking to analyze particulate matter, making accurate predictions with 97% accuracy. This technology has immense potential for improving the Navy's safety and readiness while reducing costs in multiple industries, including railroad, trucking, and construction.

Study highlights need for hepatitis C vaccine

A recent study found that people previously infected with HCV are 12 times less likely to develop persistent infection than those infected for the first time. This suggests that immunity can be acquired to protect against viral persistence, making vaccines a potential solution to reduce medical consequences of HCV infection.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 24, 2002

Cancer center study shows state's workplace smoking laws are effective

A study by the University of California, San Diego Cancer Center found that the percentage of smoke-free workplaces increased from 35% to over 93%, while nearly half of adult smokers lived in smoke-free homes. The study highlights the effectiveness of clean air legislation and education in reducing exposure to secondhand smoke.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateApr 24, 2002

Mercury ups heart disease risk

A study found that Finnish men with high mercury levels in their hair had a 60% increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease and a 70% increased risk of coronary heart disease. The study suggests that avoiding regular consumption of old, large predatory fish is key to reducing the risk.