Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for February 1, 2000


Poachers also disupt plants

New research reveals poaching's significant effects on forest plants, including increased palm regeneration despite reduced mammal populations. The study found that poaching increased beetle predation of dispersed seeds, while rodent predation decreased.

SourceSociety for Conservation Biology·JournalConservation Biology·DateFeb 1, 2000

Breast cancer risk tied to hormone replacement therapy

A study of postmenopausal women in Los Angeles County found that long-term use of hormone replacement therapy combining estrogen and progestin increases breast cancer risk by 24%. The risk was highest for sequential therapy, but continuous combined therapy showed lower risks. Researchers suggest lowering doses to decrease disease risk.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 1, 2000

Roads affect 20% of U.S. land

A study by Harvard University's Richard Forman estimates that US roads directly affect the ecology of nearly 20% of U.S. land, blocking animal migrations and spreading non-native species. Traffic noise also reduces bird populations, making it harder for them to communicate with their young.

SourceSociety for Conservation Biology·JournalConservation Biology·DateFeb 1, 2000

Tube worms in deep sea discovered to have record long life spans

Tubeworms living in cold, calm hydrocarbon-seep sites in the Gulf of Mexico have surprisingly long life spans, growing up to 2 meters over 170-250 years. In contrast, their cousins at hot and dynamic hydrothermal vents grow just one meter in a year. The researchers aim to understand why these animals live so long and grow slowly.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateFeb 1, 2000

Study suggests tailoring ADHD treatment

A new study finds that carefully monitored medication treatment alone can be as effective as combination therapy in reducing ADHD symptoms. The research recommends a personalized approach, combining optimal medication doses with monthly office visits and teacher input to maximize treatment effectiveness.