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Science News for March 3, 2003


$1.4 million NSF grant to study turbulent flows

A team of Cornell physicists and engineers are developing an instrument that can track hundreds of particles simultaneously, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of turbulent flows. The technology has the potential to improve climate models and predict how pollutants disperse in air or water.

Rice University tissue engineers set sights on meniscus

Researchers at Rice University are working on growing replacement cartilage for the meniscus, a kidney-shaped wedge of cartilage that cushions stress in the knee joint. By developing methods to simulate mechanical conditions and grow tissue in precise shapes, they aim to create more effective treatments for osteoarthritis.

On the nose

A new USC study suggests that humans lost the ability to detect pheromones due to a gene essential for vomeronasal organ function. The study found that mutations in this gene occurred around 40 million years ago, leading to the disappearance of the gene and subsequent loss of vomeronasal organ function in primates.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2003

Ramipril use in Canada

The number of ramipril prescriptions for elderly Ontario residents increased significantly after the release of HOPE's results, peaking at 304/100 000 in May 2000. This surge in prescribing was attributed to widespread media coverage of the study's success.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 3, 2003

Sobering data on student DWI habits

A Canadian Medical Association Journal study found that 15% of Ontario students with driver's licenses reported driving under the influence of alcohol, and 20% admitted to driving after using cannabis. These findings are particularly concerning given the high incidence of alcohol-related motor vehicle collisions among adolescents.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 3, 2003