Researchers confirm massive ice shelf break-off using satellite images, indicating rapid collapse beginning early next year. The 12,000 square kilometer Larsen B Ice Shelf is nearing its stability limit due to regional climate warming, with two-thirds of the ice sheet now at risk.
David Botstein, Ronald Davis, and Eric Lander were awarded the Chiron Corporation Biotechnology Research Award for their pioneering work on genetic linkage analysis using molecular markers. Their research laid the foundation for the Human Genome Project and enabled the construction of human genetic maps.
A large-scale clinical trial assessed two types of cardiac pacemakers, finding that both improve health-related quality of life. However, the dual chamber pacemaker offers benefits only in patients with sinus node dysfunction, leading to a reevaluation of treatment options.
Dr. Hultgren's work on pilus genetics, biosynthesis and structure has contributed significantly to understanding bacterial adhesions critical to pathogenesis. His research applications have led to recognition nationally and internationally.
Mathematical models identify optimal locations for breast cancer screening centers in Montreal, balancing medical excellence with geographic accessibility. The study suggests that reducing the number of centers from 48 to 15-22 guarantees high standards while maintaining access for women.
A team of researchers, led by Maureen E. Raymo, have discovered millennial-scale climate instabilities that existed much further back in time than previously thought. These rapid climate fluctuations were found to be tied to changes in ocean circulation and heat transfer.
Charles Yanofsky, a renowned Stanford University microbiologist, has been awarded the 1998 Abbott-American Society for Microbiology Lifetime Achievement Award. He made significant contributions to our understanding of gene expression and protein biosynthesis through his discovery of attenuation as a regulatory mechanism.
A team of researchers led by Stephen M. Highstein will study the response of saltwater fish to near-zero gravity conditions on a space shuttle mission. By analyzing signals from the fish's brains, they hope to reveal clues about why astronauts suffer from motion sickness in space.
Luther S. Williams, a prominent NSF scientist, has been awarded the William A. Hinton Research Training Award for his contributions to fostering minority participation in microbiology research. The award recognizes his dedication to mentoring students from underrepresented groups and promoting diversity in STEM fields.
Dr. Richard Facklam, CDC Lab Chief, receives award for his contributions to clinical microbiology research, focusing on streptococci identification and pneumococcal vaccine development. He has also worked on antimicrobial resistance studies in developing countries.
Researchers at Purdue University are conducting a project to count and identify desert plants in Egypt's New Valley region before irrigation begins. The goal is to preserve native plant species and understand the ecological impact of water reclamation on vegetation.
E. Imre Friedman, a renowned desert researcher, has been awarded the Procter and Gamble Award in Applied and Environmental Microbiology for his groundbreaking work on microbial life in hot and cold deserts. His discoveries expanded our understanding of life's limits and pushed the boundaries of biogeochemistry and microbiology.
William E. Paul, a prominent NIH AIDS researcher, has been awarded the 1998 Abbott Laboratories Award in Clinical and Diagnostic Immunology. He made significant contributions to understanding cytokine biology, T-cell reproduction, and B-cell activation.
A new computer software called Intelligent Essay Assessor uses mathematical analysis to measure essay knowledge content. It has been extensively tested and published in peer-reviewed journals, providing consistent results that surpass human graders.