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Science News Archive December 2000 - Page 2


Page 2 of 6

American Thoracic Society news tips for December

The American Thoracic Society recommends enhanced contact investigation to identify additional close contacts of active TB patients. Researchers also found that eliminating occupational exposure can prevent adult-onset asthma. Furthermore, children exposed to maternal smoking in utero show significant lung function deficits.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateDec 20, 2000

Computer generates comparative gene maps

A new method developed by Cornell researchers allows for fast comparison of genomes, tracing evolutionary paths and identifying genes. This enables practical applications in plant breeding, medicine, and disease research, with potential breakthroughs in disease resistance and nutritional value.

CWRU senior named Rhodes Scholar

Case Western Reserve University senior Niuniu Ji has been awarded the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship to pursue two-year honors studies in economics and management at Oxford University. The scholarship, established by British philanthropist Cecil Rhodes in 1902, recognizes high academic achievement and potential for leadership.

OHSU researchers survey physicians and nurses regarding increases in pain among dying patients

A recent study by OHSU researchers found that 96% of physicians and nurses believe increased family expectations for pain management contributed to the observed increase in family reports of pain among dying patients. Additionally, decreased physician prescribing of pain medications (66%) and reduced nurse administration of pain medica...

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJournal of Palliative Medicine·DateDec 18, 2000

Getting the lead out

Researchers at the Savannah River Ecology Laboratory have successfully developed a compound that aids in the extraction of certain underground contaminants, including lead. The new chemical compound targets specific reactive fractions of the soil and can be used in pump-and-treat extraction methods to enhance removal efficiency.

SourceDOE/Savannah River Ecology Laboratory·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 18, 2000

U-M study solves Pangea puzzle

Researchers at U-M and Norway have found a way to reconcile paleomagnetic data with the classical Pangea A model. The key lies in assumptions about Earth's magnetic field, which revealed long-term non-dipole fields that produce a near-perfect continental fit.

Genes reveal new clues about the first flower

A Penn State study finds that both water lilies and Amborella are equally close genetically to the first flowering plant, offering new insights into its evolution. The analysis of DNA from three cellular compartments reveals a more diverse ancestry at the base of the angiosperm family tree.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2000

A new way for cells to die

Researchers have identified a new form of programmed cell death called paraptosis, characterized by the formation of vacuoles and mitochondrial swelling. This alternative pathway may offer novel therapeutic targets for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceBuck Institute for Research on Aging·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2000

Engineers find new ways to protect against hurricane damage

Researchers developed a new method to save lives and protect property in windstorm-prone areas using a laminated glass window unit with a sacrificial ply. The design concept is promising for enhancing hurricane resistance of windows and offers a cost-effective alternative to expensive shutters or boards.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Architectural Engineering·DateDec 17, 2000

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation awards $15.1 million to treat African sleeping sickness, leishmaniasis

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has awarded a $15.11 million grant to researchers developing new drugs for African sleeping sickness and leishmaniasis. The five-year project aims to create a world-class academic and scientific consortium to target these two parasitic diseases, which kill millions of people in developing nations.

Psychology research offers 20 strategies for staying upbeat, coping with stress during holidays, everyday life

Psychology research offers 20 strategies for managing negative emotions, including reminding oneself of positive aspects, helping others, and focusing on happiness through a ratio of positive to negative emotions. Researchers like Randy Larsen emphasize the importance of looking beyond negative mental health topics.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalPsychological Inquiry·DateDec 17, 2000