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Science News Archive 2005 - Page 106


Page 106 of 165

Rice, Iowa state biologists search for 'half-fusion'

Researchers at Rice University and Iowa State University discovered that hemifusion is an intermediate fusion state in biological systems, where the outer layer of the membrane mixes with the inner layer. This finding suggests that hemifusion may be the mechanism used by all living cells to facilitate membrane fusion.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateMay 16, 2005

Are CT angiograms overused?

A recent study has found that CT angiograms are being performed at a significantly higher rate than necessary, leading to increased radiation exposure for patients. The study, which analyzed data from 2002-2004, showed that the percentage of patients with pulmonary embolism diagnosed using CTA decreased over time.

Dermatologists use immunotherapy to treat warts

Researchers found that injecting a wart with a skin test antigen from mumps, Candida, or Trichophyton can clear the wart and other distant warts. Patients who responded to treatment were more likely to have an immune response to HPV, suggesting intralesional immunotherapy induces HPV-directed immunity.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateMay 16, 2005

The link between physical activity and ovarian cancer

Researchers found a decreased risk of certain types of ovarian tumors with moderate recreational physical activity, but not others. Physical activity also regulates hormone and growth factor levels, reducing ovarian cancer risk by affecting obesity.

SourceWiley·JournalInternational Journal of Cancer·DateMay 16, 2005

Researchers prevent post-traumatic brain damage

Researchers have found that an experimental drug can effectively prevent much of the brain damage caused by traumatic injury. In a study using rat models, the drug was shown to reduce brain damage and improve cognitive and motor function. The breakthrough could potentially lead to new treatments for human traumatic brain injuries.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 16, 2005

Study finds maternal exposure to parasitic infection may increase risk of schizophrenia in offspring

A study by Columbia University found a potential link between maternal toxoplasmosis gondii infection and an increased risk of schizophrenia in adult offspring, particularly those with high antibody titers. The researchers suggest that inflammation may be the underlying mechanism behind this association.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateMay 16, 2005

Trampoline injuries on the rise

A study found that trampoline injuries among children increased significantly between 1990 and 2002, with 91% of injuries occurring at home. The incidence of severe injuries requiring hospitalization also rose dramatically during this period.