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Science News for May 5, 2006


Study provides first look at the 'birth' of a retina cell

Researchers have identified NRL as the earliest marker of rod precursors, allowing them to pinpoint the exact time at which rods are formed. This discovery provides a new vantage point for understanding healthy visual system development and raises the possibility of re-directing cell production to stave off eye disease.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 5, 2006

NDRI researchers report on transitions to injecting drug use among noninjecting heroin users

NDRI researchers studied non-injecting heroin users transitioning to injection, finding it's not universal and influenced by individual characteristics and social networks. The study highlights the importance of understanding these factors to prevent infectious diseases like HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.

SourceNational Development & Research Institutes·JournalJAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes·DateMay 5, 2006

APS physics tip sheet #61

Researchers at Rutgers University duplicated Martian razorback shapes using statically charged sand grains on acrylic. Meanwhile, DNA molecules and carbon nanotubes can convert rotational motion to linear translation, potentially solving a crucial problem in micromachine parts.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 5, 2006

Vaccine shown effective against chancroid

Researchers from University of North Carolina Health Care and N.C. State University develop a vaccine that protects animals from chancroid, a sexually transmitted disease that can enhance HIV transmission. The study suggests that a chancroid vaccine could be relatively easy to develop and may help reduce HIV transmission in Africa.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalInfection and Immunity·DateMay 5, 2006

Alveolar type I cells

Researchers have identified alveolar type I cells as potential diagnostic markers for acute lung injury. The study's findings suggest that these cells may play a crucial role in the development of pulmonary diseases.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateMay 5, 2006

Patients positively weigh in on liposuction

A study by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons found that liposuction patients who maintained a healthy diet and exercise reported significant weight loss and clothing size reduction. The majority of patients lost an average of five to 10 pounds in less than six months, with 55% reporting a three-dress-size decrease.

SourceAmerican Society of Plastic Surgeons·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateMay 5, 2006