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Science News for December 8, 1998


Magma--Making Long Valley Caldera Rise

A new study confirms that magma is forcing Long Valley Caldera to rise, which could lead to a volcanic eruption in the future. The researchers used precise gravity measurements to distinguish between magma and water, finding a systematic increase in mass beneath the resurgent dome.

SourceStanford University·DateDec 8, 1998
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Polar Spacecraft Measures "Auroral Fountain" Flowing Out As Solar Wind Flows In

Polar spacecraft has taken the first measurements showing that solar events directly affect our outer atmosphere. The results correlate CMEs with enhanced ion outflows from the upper ionosphere, providing a new understanding of the complex interactions between the sun and Earth's magnetic field.

SourceNASA/Marshall Space Flight Center--Space Sciences Laboratory·DateDec 8, 1998

Simple Method May Save Lives By Reliably Sorting Data

A new data classification scheme based on human perception is being incorporated into a hand-held chemical sensor system. This method, called VERI, can group real-world objects seen near each other by superimposing an invisible dumbbell shape, allowing for quick and accurate identifications.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalAccounts of Chemical Research·DateDec 8, 1998

Bartenders' Health Improves After Smoking Banned in Bars

A recent study found that bartenders' respiratory health and lung function improved significantly after a smoke-free environment was established in California bars. The study, supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, suggests that banning smoking in bars can have a positive impact on the health of bartending staff.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalJAMA·DateDec 8, 1998

Penn Bioethicists Suggest Updating Protections For Human Research Subjects

Bioethicists at the University of Pennsylvania recommend updating protections for human research subjects in response to rapid changes in medical practice. The new guidelines prioritize vulnerable populations, including those with mental illnesses and pregnant women, and aim to prevent abuse and misconduct.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateDec 8, 1998
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Unknown contaminant found in seabird eggs

A previously unknown contaminant similar to PCBs and dioxins has been found in the eggs of Atlantic and Pacific Ocean seabirds, with concentrations significantly higher in Pacific Ocean eggs. The study suggests that the contaminant exists primarily in the surface layer of the ocean.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 8, 1998

Holiday Tip: A Rub-Free Solution For Silver Tarnish

A materials scientist at Johns Hopkins University reveals a rub-free solution to remove stubborn tarnish from silver. The method uses baking soda, water, and aluminum foil to trigger an electrochemical reaction that separates sulfur from the metal, removing tarnish without harming the silver.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateDec 8, 1998

Cholesterol levels decline among U.S. adolescents

A study published in Preventive Medicine reveals a significant decline in total cholesterol levels among U.S. adolescents, from 167 mg/dL in 1970 to 160 mg/dL in 1994. This decrease is similar to the drop in cholesterol levels among adults during the same period.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateDec 8, 1998

Surprise: Geologists Find Glaciers Can Suppress Volcanic Eruptions

A new study reveals that glaciers prompted volcanic eruptions after they retreated north over the past 800,000 years. The research found that volcanoes were subdued when glaciers were present and became active when they retreated, suggesting a possible connection between climate change and volcanic activity.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·DateDec 8, 1998