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Science News for February 27, 2000


Virus study reveals how nature 'super-sizes' tiny structures

Researchers at Purdue University have solved the structures of two large icosahedral viruses, providing insights into their assembly and potential applications in antiviral agents. The viruses' shells are made up of large building blocks joined primarily in clusters of three, forming stable and highly symmetrical structures.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateFeb 27, 2000

Better memory

VRAM memory has the potential to replace mechanically driven storage media, reducing transistors needed for lower cost and retaining information without constant refreshing. The technology is well-suited for space, avionics, and shipboard applications due to its high-density, non-volatility, radiation-hardness, and low-power attributes.

Genetic marker common in people of European heritage doesn't explain high rates of periodontal disease in Chinese

A recent study found that the genetic marker associated with periodontal disease in people of European heritage is barely present in Chinese populations. This suggests that oral hygiene habits, smoking, and other risk factors may be more important in explaining the high prevalence of periodontal disease in Chinese populations.

SourceAmerican Academy of Periodontology·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateFeb 27, 2000

Bacterial strain may help clean up harmful industrial waste

Researchers have identified a bacterial strain called T1 that can break down toluene, a hazardous industrial solvent. This discovery could lead to more cost-effective and environmentally friendly methods for cleaning up contaminated sites, reducing the need for expensive excavation and disposal methods.

SourceOhio University·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateFeb 27, 2000

Oral pathogens put children with Down syndrome at high risk for severe early-onset periodontal disease

A recent study reveals that children with Down syndrome are susceptible to severe periodontal disease due to factors such as inadequate oral hygiene and congenital deformities. Research suggests that proper plaque control can help ward off the disease, emphasizing the importance of regular dental visits and education for parents.

SourceAmerican Academy of Periodontology·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateFeb 27, 2000

Daughters preferred?

A new study by Dr. Hilke Brockmann found that German mothers' attitudes towards the sex of their children have changed over time in response to changes in welfare regimes. In contrast to Asian and African countries where sons are preferred, Germany's high level of female participation in the labor market may lead to a girl-preference.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalEuropean Sociological Review·DateFeb 27, 2000