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Science News Archive July 2002 - Page 5


Page 5 of 7

Virus in babies may cause asthma later on

Researchers found that viral infections in infancy can cause long-term changes in the body's anti-viral system, leading to chronic respiratory inflammation and distress. Mice infected with paramyxoviral virus developed airway hyperreactivity and mucus-producing cells, symptoms similar to asthma.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJul 10, 2002

Making a CACE for it

The Marine Corps has developed an automated suite of tools called the Coherent Analytical Computing Environment (CACE) to help simplify complex mission planning. The CACE Decision Support Suite can produce four weeks' worth of flight schedules in just 15 minutes, reducing the time spent on scheduling from hours to minutes.

Study finds common knee surgery no better than placebo

A recent study found that patients undergoing arthroscopic lavage or debridement for osteoarthritis of the knee did not experience greater pain relief or improved function compared to those receiving placebo surgery. The researchers suggest that the same therapeutic benefits may be achieved through non-invasive treatment methods.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 10, 2002

Study asks how clinicians treat overweight kids

A new study published in Pediatrics recommends screening for medical problems and addressing treatment barriers when treating overweight children. Healthcare providers face challenges such as parental resistance, patient lack of motivation, and insufficient support services, hindering effective treatment.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJul 9, 2002

Roger scramjet

A new kind of cruise missile engine, called a scramjet, has been tested to achieve Mach 6.5 speeds in simulated hypersonic conditions, outperforming traditional ramjets. The engine is being developed for use in the HyFly joint DARPA/ONR Flight Demo program, aiming to launch missiles at speeds up to Mach 6 and ranges of 600 nautical miles.

Detection of bioterrorism viruses brought closer to local sites

Mayo Clinic researchers have discovered a way to use autoclave sterilization procedures in laboratory settings to detect and confirm the identity of smallpox virus and other bioterrorism agents. This innovation enables local laboratories to conduct rapid tests, reducing the time needed to respond to potential attacks.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateJul 9, 2002

Rembrandt and the US Navy

Scientists from the University of Minnesota and Duke University developed computer techniques that can automate image inpainting, restoring lost regions with neighboring available information. This technology has applications in surveillance images, enabling faster recovery of lost information and potential super resolution.

Creating better businesses

The BRASS Centre will focus on research in social, ethical, and environmental impact of business. It aims to enhance business practice, improve legislation, and public policy initiatives by creating a greater understanding of sustainability, accountability, and social responsibility.

Self-taught stress management techniques most effective in relieving stress of chemotherapy

A study published in Journal of Clinical Oncology found that self-taught stress management techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation and guided imagery, can significantly improve the quality of life for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. These techniques were more effective than traditional methods when learned independen...

SourceMoffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJul 8, 2002

Moving out and moving in

The Northeast region experienced slow population growth during the 1990s, primarily due to high levels of domestic out-migration. New foreign immigration played a crucial role in offsetting this trend, with nearly 3.1 million new immigrants arriving in the region, accounting for over 100% of population growth.

Deformed frogs form when parasites and pesticides combine

A study by Penn State researchers found that deformed frogs are linked to the combination of parasite infection and pesticide exposure. The research, which included experimental studies in ponds where the animals live, may help explain how environmental stress affects disease outbreaks in frogs.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 8, 2002

Children with asthma plagued by smokers and pets

A new study by National Jewish Health reveals that smoking and pet ownership are common triggers of asthma attacks in children. Households with smokers differ from those with pets in terms of socioeconomic and psychosocial profiles, suggesting that addressing these triggers requires individualized approaches.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateJul 8, 2002

Snail venom heralds new era of pain treatment

Researchers at the University of Melbourne have developed a new compound, ACV1, derived from cone shell venom that is more powerful and longer-lasting than morphine. The compound has shown promising results in laboratory studies, treating pain by blocking transmission along peripheral nervous systems without addictive side effects.