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Science News for December 29, 1998


Formaldehyde Emissions From Consumer Products

A comprehensive study reveals that new permanent press clothing, paints, floor finishes, wallpaper, and fingernail polishes can emit substantial amounts of formaldehyde. Low-level exposure can cause irritation, while long-term exposure may lead to respiratory difficulties and other health issues.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 29, 1998

Beer Inhibits Action Of Carcinogenic Mutagens

Research by Japanese scientists found that beer inhibited the action of mutagens caused by suspected cancer-causing compounds, with stout beers showing the most potent effect. The study also showed that red and white wines, brandy, and Japanese sake had similar inhibitory effects.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateDec 29, 1998

Game-Playing Helps Penn Researchers Distinguish Differences Between Patient And Clinician Priorities And Values

Researchers developed a game to help close the gap between clinician and patient values in rehabilitation, finding that patients prioritize cognitive skills over physical skills early on but clinicians prefer full independence. The game identifies disparities in preferences across different stages of recovery.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalArchives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation·DateDec 29, 1998

Nerve Agent Sensor A Million Times More Sensitive

A new sensor developed by Johns Hopkins researchers can detect minute traces of nerve agents sarin and soman in water, boasting sensitivity levels a million times greater than previous reported solutions. The sensor combines molecular imprinting with optical luminescence to achieve this remarkable detection capability.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateDec 29, 1998