Science News for December 30, 1999

Backyard burning identified as potential major source of dioxins

A new study reveals that backyard burning of household trash can release significant amounts of dioxins and furans into the air. Under controlled conditions, family-sized backyard burns can produce emissions comparable to those from a well-controlled municipal waste incinerator serving tens of thousands of households.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 30, 1999

New study shows immune-enhancing therapy reduces infections and shortens hospital stay by almost three days in critically ill

A new study published in Critical Care Medicine found that immune-enhancing therapy significantly reduces infection rates and shortens hospitalization length by nearly three days. The therapy was most beneficial for surgical patients, with no adverse effects observed.

SourceRuder Finn Public Relations·JournalCritical Care Medicine·DateDec 30, 1999