The President's R&D budget for FY 1998 will cut federal R&D spending by an additional 14 percent (in inflation-adjusted dollars) by 2002. Funding for basic research would barely stay ahead of inflation at $15.3 billion, representing a 3.0 percent increase over FY 1997.
The International Research Institute (IRI) will distribute climate predictions several months in advance to a global network of agencies and policymakers. The institute combines the scientists and resources of two leading climate research centers, aiming to improve longer-range predictions and mitigate extreme weather.
A new University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study finds that pregnant workers with demanding jobs are more likely to give birth prematurely. Black women appear to be at a greater risk from job strain than white women, with high-strain jobs increasing the risk by about 40%.
The American Association for the Advancement of Science reports that New England universities rely heavily on federal R&D funding, which could be cut by up to 33% by 2002. The region's economy and workforce will suffer if these programs are reduced.
A new laparoscopic technique has made kidney donation easier, with reduced recovery time and complications. The procedure involves a small incision and minimizes blood loss, allowing donors to recover in one-third less time compared to traditional surgery.
Researchers found that self-administered IL-2 injections can produce significant increases in CD4+ T cells in HIV-infected patients. Those with higher initial CD4+ T cell counts had the best responses, with almost half sustaining increases of at least 200 cells/mm³ after one year.
A Simon Fraser University study of 46 Romanian orphans found that one-third have significant development, social, and behavioral problems. The researchers recommend better preparation programs for adoptive parents, thorough medical checkups, and infant development programs to mitigate the impact of orphanage life.
The Pacific Northwest's high-tech industry may be hindered by proposed federal funding cuts for research and development. The region's universities, which receive significant funding from the federal government, are particularly vulnerable to these reductions, as they rely heavily on this support to fuel their research and innovation.