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Science News for April 6, 2006


Is the brain wired for faces?

A new study published in Neuron suggests that facial recognition relies on a similar neural mechanism as other object recognition, rather than specialized processing. The researchers used computational modeling and fMRI to find that a small group of neurons in the fusiform face area is highly selective for different faces.

Healing honey: The sweet evidence revealed

Honey's antibacterial quality rapidly clears existing infection, while also protecting wounds from additional infections. The sweetener stimulates the growth of granulation and epithelial tissues to speed up the healing process.

SourceSAGE·JournalThe International Journal of Lower Extremity Wounds·DateApr 6, 2006

Americans love competition, but is it pushing our scientists too far?

A study by University of Michigan researcher Raymond De Vries found that everyday problems in scientific research are most common, including struggles with data interpretation and adherence to scientific rules. The study also found that unbridled competition and organizational injustices contribute to scientific misconduct.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Empirical Research on Human Research Ethics·DateApr 6, 2006

Hidden structure revealed in characteristics of transistor laser

Scientists at the University of Illinois have discovered significant structure in the current-voltage characteristics of a transistor laser, allowing them to study the elusive electronic structure. The research enables the development of transistor lasers that can operate at different speeds for various commercial applications.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 6, 2006

Towards the mechanism of cell respiration

Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in understanding the cell respiration mechanism, led by Academy Professor Mårten Wikström. The study reveals the coupling between the proton pump and oxygen reduction, shedding light on how energy is transduced from foodstuffs to cells.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature·DateApr 6, 2006

BCG vaccination is highly cost-effective

The BCG vaccine is highly cost-effective in preventing severe childhood tuberculosis, with an estimated cost of US$200 per year of healthy life gained. The largest impact was found in southeast Asia, Africa, and the western Pacific region, where TB infection rates and BCG coverage are highest.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 6, 2006

Study may help slay 'Yellow Monster'

Researchers at Northern Arizona University have made groundbreaking discoveries about uranium's impact on DNA, potentially shedding light on environmental contamination and health effects of depleted uranium. The study's findings have significant implications for Native American communities and may help address long-standing concerns a...

JCI table of contents, April 6, 2006

In a study on Huntington disease, researchers found that cystamine increased brain levels of protective protein HSJ1b and BDNF, suggesting a promising candidate for treatment. The study also revealed that cystamine raises BDNF in an HSJ1b-dependent manner.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 6, 2006

Seniors look on the bright side

Researchers found that older participants preferred happy faces and avoided angry ones, while younger subjects showed a preference for fearful faces. This study challenges traditional views on how age affects emotional processing and suggests a more positive outlook in older adults.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateApr 6, 2006

WHO's 2006 World Health Report 'a disappointment'

The WHO's 2006 World Health Report faces criticism for its limited information on human-resource gaps and needs. The report lacks geographical distribution, skill levels, and sector balance details, hindering policymakers' decisions. The Lancet comments that the WHR shows a significant gap between current knowledge and necessary data.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 6, 2006

AIUM honors ultrasound pioneers

The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine presented notable awards to Lawrence Platt, David Sahn, Marie De Lange, Genevieve Berger, and Kurt Jaeger for their groundbreaking contributions to diagnostic ultrasound. The honors recognize individuals who have significantly advanced the field through research, education, and innovation.