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Science News for June 20, 2005


Study examines barriers to disclosure of childhood abuse

Childhood sexual abuse survivors from families with rigid gender roles and poor communication often faced social isolation, making it difficult for them to disclose the abuse. Only 40% of participants disclosed during childhood, underscoring the need for professionals to cultivate skills to detect subtle cues.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalFamilies in Society The Journal of Contemporary Social Services·DateJun 20, 2005

Separating morning and evening in the circadian clock of mammals

Researchers found that cells in the caudal region of the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN) synchronize their gene-expression rhythms to dawn, while those in the rostral SCN exhibit an opposite response. This suggests that synchronous gene expression may be a hallmark of short-day acclimation, while regional de-synchrony increases on long days.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 20, 2005

Does life exist on other planets?

Researchers argue that oxygen-rich atmospheres are essential for complex life to exist. However, since levels of oxygen won't have had time to develop sufficiently before a sun dies, life may not be able to evolve on planets orbiting short-lived suns.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalAstrobiology·DateJun 20, 2005

Scientists create artificial cricket hairs

Researchers have developed artificial sensory hair systems inspired by crickets' cerci, which can detect low-frequency sound with high sensitivity and directivity. The artificial hairs are energy-efficient and show potential applications in various fields such as sensor networks and aerodynamics.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalJournal of Micromechanics and Microengineering·DateJun 20, 2005

Early detection of thick melanomas

The number of new melanoma cases in the US increased 60% from 1988-1991 to 1996-1999, with thick melanomas primarily composed of nodular subtype. The study suggests that current early-detection educational programs may not be effective for detecting this aggressive type of melanoma.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateJun 20, 2005

Elevated CRP can foil diet's ability to lower cholesterol

A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that individuals with elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) levels cannot lower their LDL-cholesterol numbers with a Step 1 diet, even when soy protein is added. The study suggests that habitual consumption of a Step 1 diet may be beneficial for those with low CRP levels but delete...

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateJun 20, 2005

New topical pain cream reduces pain

A new topical pain cream has been shown to decrease pain during IV cannulation and even facilitate the procedure, leading to improved outcomes for children. The study, conducted at Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto, found that 74% of children who received the cream successfully had their IV inserted on first attempt.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 20, 2005

Predicting serious cardiac outcomes

A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that levels of ischemia-modified albumin provided no useful information in predicting which patients with potential acute coronary syndrome would experience serious cardiac outcomes. The analysis suggests that prognosis may precede diagnosis in these cases.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 20, 2005

Anthrax inhibitors identified by Burnham team

Scientists at Sanford Burnham Prebys Institute have identified three lead compounds that inhibit anthrax lethal factor (LF) with high potency and selectivity. The compounds, when combined with antibiotics like Ciprofloxacin, showed a two-fold increase in survival rate for mice infected with anthrax spores.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 20, 2005

Keyhole surgery is a safe option for colon cancer

A recent study published in The Lancet Oncology has found that keyhole surgery is a safe and effective option for treating colon cancer. Patients who underwent keyhole surgery had less blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times compared to those who received open surgery.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·DateJun 20, 2005

Pregnant women at risk for injury in summer

A new study published in the Journal of Trauma found that pregnant women are at a higher risk of injury during the summer months due to common activities. The study, led by Dr. Donald Redelmeier, looked at data from Canadian hospitals between 1994 and 2001 and found a 12% increase in trauma cases during the summer.