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Science News for September 7, 2007


Nuclear medicine approach can be first choice for excluding pulmonary embolism in young women

A ventilation/perfusion lung scan (V/Q scan) is a reliable alternative to CT angiograms in diagnosing pulmonary embolisms, especially in young women. The study found that V/Q scans can exclude pulmonary embolism with low probability clinical assessment, reducing radiation exposure and breast cancer risk.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateSep 7, 2007

Prions and retroviruses -- an unholy alliance?

Researchers found that prion infection influences the expression of endogenous retroviruses in mouse cells, with some sequences increasing and others decreasing. The effects could be suppressed by an anti-prion drug, suggesting a possible link between prions and retrovirus production.

Color contrast is 'seen' by the brain early doors

A new study confirms that colour contrast is first detected by the primary visual cortex at the back of the brain. The brain processes colour contrast earlier than previously thought, making it a significant contribution to understanding how the brain functions.

SourceDurham University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 7, 2007