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Science News for March 12, 1999


Vinegar Offers Dependable Test For Cervical Cancer

A new test using vinegar and visual inspection detected over 75% of potential cancers among African study participants, identifying almost twice as many cases as Pap smears. The inexpensive and easy test could provide a reliable screening option for women in developing countries where cervical cancer is prevalent.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·DateMar 12, 1999

Media Alert: Percy Julian Honored

The American Chemical Society is honoring black chemist Percy Julian's accomplishments in pharmaceuticals and chemical synthesis. Julian made significant contributions to the development of a low-cost synthetic method for cortisone, an antiarthritis drug, and synthesized the glaucoma medication physostigime.

What Makes An Arm An Arm And A Leg A Leg

Scientists have identified a gene called Pitx1 that can partially transform the upper limb of a vertebrate into a structure resembling its lower limb. The study found that Pitx1 is one of three genes thought to play a role in giving upper and lower extremities their identity.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalScience·DateMar 12, 1999