Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive 2003 - Page 60


Page 60 of 108

A different antiviral for treating SARS

Researchers at Frankfurt University Medical School have assessed the antiviral potential of five drugs against the SARS coronavirus. Glycyrrhizin, an antiviral agent proven to treat HIV-1 and hepatitis C, is the most active compound in inhibiting replication, with increased nitric oxide synthesis contributing to its effectiveness.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 12, 2003

Changing global nitrogen cycle impacting human health, says Colorado University-led study

A recent study by Colorado University-led researchers highlights the growing health risks associated with changes in the global nitrogen cycle. The excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers has led to increased crop production in poor nations but poses significant environmental and health concerns for humans worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateJun 12, 2003

The Plasti-Bone

Acer's process creates a micro-porous calcium phosphate coated polymer 'bone' that allows natural bone growth, reducing recovery time to 18 months. The technology, funded by the Navy Small Business Technology Transition program, has shown success in animal testing and tissue cultures.

Study finds statins would cut heart attacks and strokes by a third in people with diabetes

A UK multi-centre randomised trial found that statins reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes or revascularisation operations by about a third in diabetic patients, irrespective of their cholesterol levels. This could prevent at least 10,000 heart attacks, strokes and revascularisation operations each year worldwide.

Imaging technique tracks nerve growth and repair

A new imaging technique, using second harmonic generation microscopy, allows for the observation of microtubule polarity in living brain tissue. This enables researchers to study neuronal development and repair, as well as neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 11, 2003

An image of success

Dr. Zhang's research focuses on improving indexing, retrieval, and use of images based on algorithms that rely on the semantics of the images themselves. His recent invention disclosure reveals a novel fuzzy logic-based indexing scheme and user relevance feedback algorithm for content-based image retrieval.

Noninvasive optical biopsies on the horizon

Researchers demonstrate noninvasive microscopy scans producing images of diseased tissue at the cellular level, rivaling traditional histopathology methods. The technique uses natural fluorescence and multiphoton microscopy to enable optical biopsies on living animals or humans without surgical intervention.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 11, 2003

Data will not go to waste

Researchers at Cardiff University are launching a survey to gather detailed data on commercial and industrial waste arisings in Wales. The survey will question 2,400 businesses across the country, providing valuable insights into waste generation and management practices.

An eye for scent marks

Research suggests that rodents' UV vision helps them detect fresh urine marks, improving localization and social organization. This adaptation may have driven the retention of UV vision in these animals.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateJun 10, 2003

Study shows restricted activities predict decline; UNC physician urges acceptance of the inevitable

A study by Yale University found that older adults' disability scores worsen by 11.2% for every month of curtailed activity. The association between restricted activity and functional decline differs significantly in risk groups, with adjusted disability scores increasing by 18.7% and 7.5% for low- and intermediate-risk groups, respect...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJun 10, 2003

Tooth, heal thyself

Researchers at NIST have invented composites that can promote re-growth of natural tooth structures efficiently. These bioactive, biocompatible materials can be used to stimulate the repair of defective teeth, minimizing decay under orthodontic braces and potentially in root canal therapy.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalPublic Administration Journal of Research·DateJun 10, 2003

Ultra-cold substance shows stripes -- behavior explained

Researchers have developed a method to control the behavior of ultra-cold substances, which could lead to significant advancements in quantum computing and precise time measurements. By manipulating the material's density and vortex patterns, scientists can create unique flow patterns that defy traditional solid or liquid states.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPhysical Review A·DateJun 10, 2003

U-M study: Physicians perceive health care cost savings line pockets of insurance companies

A study found that physicians prioritize profits over patient benefits when considering cost savings. More than half of responding physicians believed money saved would go to insurance executives rather than patients or improved services. The study highlights the disconnect between doctor perceptions and long-term societal benefits.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe American Journal of Managed Care·DateJun 10, 2003