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Science News for January 4, 2000


On the scent

Scientists discover that people prefer certain smells when sniffed through one nostril over the other. The left nostril is more accurate for identifying odours, while the right nostril enhances pleasantness perception. This finding fits with brain processing theories and may lead to further research on smell perception.

SourceNew Scientist·JournalThe New Scientist·DateJan 4, 2000

Video review comes to the operating room: Videotaping surgeries offers opportunities to improve outcomes

A study by Johns Hopkins researchers found that videotaping surgeries can improve outcomes in radical prostatectomy. The study, which involved 62 patients, showed that minor differences in surgical techniques can have a major impact on results. Surgeons who perform successful procedures should review the footage to identify key factors.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalUrology·DateJan 4, 2000

Fertilizers linked to amphibian deaths

A new study at Oregon State University found that low levels of nitrate and nitrite in water can kill some species of amphibians, especially during their larval stages. The study suggests that water quality criteria set by the EPA may not guarantee the survival of all protected and endangered amphibian species.

SourceOregon State University·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateJan 4, 2000

You don't need to stop procrastinating

Researchers found that calculations taking longer than 26 months on current hardware are not worth starting. Instead, delaying until a more powerful computer is available can save time and resources. This strategy allows for optimal use of limited budgets for computers.

SourceNew Scientist·JournalThe New Scientist·DateJan 4, 2000