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Science News Archive September 1999 - Page 2


Page 2 of 5

Single motherhood doesn't hurt schoolwork

A Cornell University study of over 1,700 six- and seven-year-olds found that single mothers' education levels were more important than family income for their children's math, reading, and vocabulary scores. Strong links between a mother's ability level and her child's academic performance were seen in white, black, and Hispanic families.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·DateSep 27, 1999

Humus/Mineral interaction

Researchers found that increasing humus content can increase quinoline's movement to groundwater, but mineral interactions play a key role. The study suggests that strongly bound pollutants may still be broken down by microorganisms.

SourcePenn State·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateSep 27, 1999

Gamma/Delta T cells essential to regulating airway hyperresponsiveness in asthma, other lung diseases, according to National Jewish researchers

A recent study published in Nature Medicine has found that gamma/delta T cells are essential for regulating airway hyperresponsiveness, which is characterized by an exaggerated response to stimuli. The research suggests that these cells have a suppressive effect on airway constriction and may be a key target for future treatments.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalNature Medicine·DateSep 27, 1999

First three minutes of discussion about on-going area of marital conflict are predictive of divorce among newlywed couples

Researchers at University of Washington found that couples who later divorced displayed significantly more negative emotions and words in their initial discussions compared to those who stayed married. The study suggests that learning how to soften one's approach and improve emotional connectedness can help prevent divorce.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalFamily Process·DateSep 27, 1999

'Disposable electronics' from polymer study

A Cornell University research team led by Paulette Clancy is developing novel semiconducting materials using polymers, which could lead to cheaper and more portable 'throwaway electronics.' The project aims to create new materials for light-emitting diode displays and flexible laptop screens.

Stem cells may be powerful gene shuttle

Researchers from HHMI at Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School discovered that stem cells can deliver therapeutic genes to diseased organs, potentially remodeling genetically defective tissues. The study suggests that adult stem cells may be manipulated to heal genetic defects in various organs and tissues.

Historically black and research-intensive universities partner under grants aimed at broadening U.S. science base

Historically black colleges and universities are partnering with high-tech research-intensive universities for $1 million environmental health grants. The program, called ARCH, aims to strengthen research capabilities at minority-serving institutions, enabling them to conduct competitive research in environmental health sciences.

Megaflares will point the way to distant solar systems

Astronomers believe that megaflares produced by tangled magnetic fields on a star and its planet might help identify distant Sun-like stars with planetary systems. This phenomenon could provide energy for the development of life on rocky planets, making it a promising area to search for extraterrestrial life.

SourceNew Scientist·JournalThe New Scientist·DateSep 22, 1999

Aviation fuel is best served well chilled

A simple cooling system can significantly reduce fuel vapour formation in aircraft tanks, minimizing the risk of explosion. The Polarjet system cools fuel to -1°C or below, reducing hydrocarbon vapours and oxygen levels, making planes safer without expensive modifications.

SourceNew Scientist·JournalThe New Scientist·DateSep 22, 1999

Communications towers killing birds

A recent study highlights the dangers of communications towers for migrating birds, which mistake tower lights for the moon and collide with structures. The Cornell University meeting brought together experts to discuss solutions, including co-location rules and reduced lighting in tall buildings.