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Science News for December 12, 2000


I love you, but you're making me sick

A new study found that people in unhappy relationships with mild high blood pressure experience sustained increases in blood pressure, while those in loving relationships show a decrease. The research suggests that marital distress may be a significant factor in raising blood pressure in vulnerable individuals.

SourceHeart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateDec 12, 2000

Neptune's ears

Researchers aim to understand how sonar affects marine creatures by creating a sea sound simulator. The ESME project will analyze data from various organizations and develop mathematical models to predict environmental effects of different sonar types.

First plant genome completed

A team of scientists has successfully completed the sequencing of the Arabidopsis thaliana genome, paving the way for accelerated research in plant biology. The comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into gene annotation, functional categories, chromosomal architecture, and transposable elements.

Tissue proteolysis and male infertility

The targeted disruption of the PCI gene in mice leads to profound defects in sperm development and fertility. Human male infertility is also associated with a lack of PCI in seminal fluid, disrupting the balance of proteinases and proteinase inhibitors.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 12, 2000

British men favour beer and fast food diet

A study of British adults found that most men follow a beer and fast food diet, while women prefer the traditional British diet. The research also revealed significant regional and socioeconomic differences in dietary patterns, with those on low incomes and smokers consuming less healthy diets.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateDec 12, 2000

Takin' care of business - the Navy way

The Navy's BMP program has significantly reduced disparities in quality, cost, and reliability of acquired goods and services. More than 120 surveys have been conducted, 5,000 best practices documented, and an Internet site established to share knowledge and expertise with the business community.

Nanonurses

Researchers at Cornell University have successfully demonstrated hybrid nanodevices that can administer drugs and treatments using biomolecules and tiny nickel propellers. The devices are powered by ATP and can be assembled, maintained, and repaired using life's physiology.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·JournalScience·DateDec 12, 2000

Researchers sequence first plant genome

The team sequenced the genome of Arabidopsis thaliana, a flowering mustard, enabling scientists to study genes controlling basic plant functions. The knowledge gained will aid in improving crops like wheat, corn, and soybeans, as well as identifying genes in the human sequence.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature·DateDec 12, 2000

Elephant seals - looking good

Scientists have developed a unique way to study elephant seals using tiny sensing devices attached to their coats. These devices provide valuable information on sea temperatures and pressure, even at depths not normally reached by research ships or satellite sensing.

Extended drug therapy and pneumatic compression key to avoiding blood clots after hip replacement surgery

A study found that pneumatic compression and extended anticoagulant drug therapy lower the risk of developing symptomatic blood clots after hip replacement surgery, with overweight patients most at risk. Pneumatic compression was effective in normal-weight patients, while warfarin therapy benefited all patients.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 12, 2000