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Science News for May 27, 2003


Slow moving vehicle sign not recognized by drivers

A Penn State researcher found that less than 30% of drivers recognize the Slow Moving Vehicle (SMV) sign. The sign's inconsistent day/night appearance and potential confusion with other symbols contribute to the low comprehension rate. Improving motorist education and enforcement could help increase recognition.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Agricultural Safety and Health·DateMay 27, 2003

Residents say 'no' to mammography

A survey of US radiology residents found that most were hesitant to pursue breast imaging training or interpret mammograms due to negative attitudes and perceived drawbacks. The shortage of qualified radiologists is expected to worsen as demand for screening mammography services increases with an aging population.

Drugs that treat back pain also improve productivity

A study by the University of Alberta has found that giving people drugs to treat back pain can improve performance. The research team led by Dr. Saifee Rashiq ran a randomized controlled trial where participants were injected with a strong narcotic painkiller and completed the Sorensen test, showing a significant increase in functional...

Novel flu vaccine shows promise in mice

A novel flu vaccine developed by The Wistar Institute has generated a strong antibody response in mice, offering hope for a more stable and effective vaccine. The vaccine targets a stable region of the virus, potentially providing long-term protection against flu strains.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalVaccine·DateMay 27, 2003

Scientists find genetic link between blood flow patterns and cardiovascular disease

Researchers found a genetic connection between blood flow patterns and cardiovascular disease, with oscillatory shear stress leading to increased expression of the protein BMP4. This finding may help explain why physical inactivity promotes heart disease and could lead to new diagnostic tests or gene-based therapies.

SourceEmory University Health Sciences Center·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 27, 2003

When it comes to jealousy, men and women may come from the same planet after all

A recent study published in Personality and Social Psychology Review by Christine Harris questions the evolutionary theory of sex differences in jealousy. She finds that men and women view sexual and emotional jealousy in a similar light, with many studies failing to account for individual variability and cultural influences. Harris su...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPersonality and Social Psychology Bulletin·DateMay 27, 2003

Researchers selectively silence disease-causing gene

Scientists have successfully silenced mutant genes without affecting normal gene copies using RNA interference, a promising approach for treating diseases like Machado-Joseph disease, Huntington's, and Alzheimer's. This breakthrough technique has the potential to selectively turn off disease-causing genes, preserving essential normal g...

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 2003

The seashell's inner beauty

Scientists create a nanoscale, layered material that replicates the properties of mother-of-pearl, including its iridescence. The artificial nacre consists of alternating layers of clay and a polymer, providing strong, yet flexible, materials for various applications.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalNature Materials·DateMay 27, 2003