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Science News for June 14, 2004


Quantum dots see in the dark

Researchers at USC and UT Austin have developed a device based on quantum dots that can detect infrared radiation in a crucial wavelength range. This technology has the potential to improve night vision goggles, medical sensors and environmental monitors.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 14, 2004

Post-surgical pain may be age related

A study of over 200 patients with hernia found that post-surgical pain was inversely related to age, with younger patients experiencing less pain. Laparoscopic repair was also associated with lower first-day pain scores and faster return to normal activities compared to open surgery.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateJun 14, 2004

How genes get us wired

Researchers discovered that the Hoxb1 gene is necessary for forming a circuit between the brain and facial muscles, controlling movements such as blinking and facial expressions. The study's findings have implications for understanding and potentially treating Mobius syndrome and other nerve-related disorders.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalGenes & Development·DateJun 14, 2004

Listerine antiseptic proven as effective as dental floss

A long-term study published in JADA demonstrates that rinsing twice daily with Listerine Antiseptic mouthrinse is as effective at reducing plaque and gingivitis as flossing once daily. The study found that Listerine Antiseptic reduced plaque by 20% and gingivitis by 11%, while flossing led to 3.4% and 4.3% reductions respectively.

SourceKetchum UK·JournalThe Journal of the American Dental Association·DateJun 14, 2004

Ecosystem bounces back from hurricanes

A team of scientists found that the estuaries were resilient and recovered quickly from the storms, with most shellfish and finfish populations returning to normal. However, blue crabs took longer to recover due to overfishing and floodwaters disrupting their migration patterns.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 14, 2004

VELCADE(TM) data confirms long-term survival

A new study shows that VELCADE (bortezomib) can significantly extend survival and induce important responses in relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma patients. The median overall survival was 17.2 months, with a 14.1-month duration of response and 15.3-month time to disease progression.

Fish story linked to climate cycle

Researchers from the University of Maine have found evidence suggesting that changes in Peruvian fisheries occurred centuries before modern fishing practices. The study used archaeological data from ancient fish processing sites and correlated these shifts with El Nino climate patterns.

SourceUniversity of Maine·JournalQuaternary Research·DateJun 14, 2004

How fat poisons livers of obese children and adults

The Mayo Clinic discovery sheds light on the cellular mechanisms behind Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), a growing global problem related to affluence and diet. Early signs include accumulation of fat in the liver, inflammation, and scarring, which can lead to impaired function.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalHepatology·DateJun 14, 2004

Prostatitis associated with high medical costs

A study of 167 men with chronic prostatitis found that the condition incurs substantial direct and indirect costs, with procedures, tests, and healthcare visits accounting for a significant portion. The average annual cost per person was $4,397, with work loss valued at an additional $551.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJun 14, 2004