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Science News Archive January 2003 - Page 4


Page 4 of 8

Supply and demand and illicit drugs

A recent Canadian Medical Association Journal investigation found that a massive heroin seizure had no impact on drug prices or overdose rates. Heroin prices actually decreased after the shipment was intercepted, raising questions about the effectiveness of supply-side interventions in controlling Canada's illicit drug epidemic.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 20, 2003

Shaken baby syndrome in Canada

A study of Canadian children with shaken baby syndrome found nearly 20% died, 55% suffered lasting neurologic injuries, and 65% experienced visual impairment. The authors estimate at least 40 cases occur annually, calling for further research on prevention strategies.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 20, 2003

Early-warning procedure can help more melanoma patients than previously thought

A new study reveals that sentinel lymph node mapping can be safely performed on patients with melanoma in the delicate head and neck area, allowing for early detection of cancer spread. The technique has been shown to accurately stage patients and identify those who need further treatment, potentially improving survival rates.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateJan 20, 2003

Meanwhile, back to barnacles...

The US Navy is developing new antifouling hull coatings inspired by nature, using complex nanometer-scale patterns to prevent barnacles from attaching. These coatings have shown exceptional low settlement rates in early experiments, promising a reduction in fuel costs and frequent cleaning needs for Navy ships.

Evolving slower gets you the bigger piece of the pie

A recent study by Max Planck Institute researchers found that in mutualistic interactions between species, the faster-evolving species may actually lose out. The slow-moving species can gain an advantage when both are generous and coordinate their strategies, whereas quickly evolving species tend to adapt to slow evolvers' needs.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 17, 2003

Scientists explain formation of stone circles and other strange patterns in northern regions

Researchers developed a numerical model that explains the emergence of various patterns, including stone circles and labyrinths, through the interaction of two mechanisms: lateral sorting and squeezing. The relative strengths of these processes, along with factors like soil compressibility and stone size, determine the resulting pattern.

Researchers find a molecule that improves wound repair

Researchers at McGill University have discovered a molecule that accelerates wound healing, providing a potential treatment option for millions of Americans suffering from burns and chronic skin ulcers. The growth factor progranulin has been shown to improve skin repair, offering new hope for individuals affected by these conditions.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 16, 2003

Rapid diagnostic test for plague

A rapid diagnostic test for plague has been developed to detect antigens at low concentrations within 15 minutes of infection. The test is 100% sensitive and reliable, detecting more infections than conventional laboratory assessments and providing opportunities for bioterrorism preparedness and response.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 16, 2003

JCI table of contents, January 15 2003

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the effects of HIV protease inhibitors on atherosclerosis, as well as exploring novel gene therapies for epidermolysis bullosa. Additionally, studies on CXCR4/CXCL12 interaction reveal new insights into hematopoietic stem cell mobilization.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 16, 2003

Picking your way through a minefield

The Office of Naval Research is developing a suite of technologies to help sailors and Marines avoid mines during amphibious landings. The systems, including Moving Map, Augmented Reality Visualization, and Expeditionary Warfare Decision Support System, aim to reduce the risk of accidents by providing real-time navigation data.

Early diagnosis of childhood diabetes

Scientists at British Columbia's Children's Hospital reveal a method for directly measuring the level of self-destructive white blood cells in mouse blood, distinguishing those that go on to develop diabetes from those that do not. The technique may also be used to detect other autoimmune disorders.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 16, 2003

When to screen for diabetic eye disease?

A new study from the Liverpool Diabetic Eye Study has proposed optimal screening intervals for diabetic eye disease, based on incidence data. The findings suggest that patients with no baseline retinopathy should be screened every 3 years, while those with background retinopathy can be screened annually.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateJan 16, 2003