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Science News for July 20, 2000


Statement from Dr. Claude Lenfant on discovery of the gene for primary pulmonary hypertension

Researchers have identified a gene associated with inherited primary pulmonary hypertension, providing new avenues of study for determining its molecular basis. The discovery opens up possibilities for designing more effective therapies for this devastating condition, which affects primarily women of childbearing age.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateJul 20, 2000

Depression linked to stroke

A two-decade study found that people with high levels of depression are at a 73% increased risk of developing stroke, while those with moderate levels have a 25% increased risk. The association varied by race and gender, with higher risks observed in African Americans.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateJul 20, 2000

Do actions speak louder than words? When girls and boys tell aggressive stories, girls are more likely to act out, National Jewish research says

A study of over 5,000 children's stories found that girls with aggressive themes tend to exhibit behavioral problems at home and school. Researchers suggest engaging children in play to help them work through issues, rather than inhibiting it.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateJul 20, 2000

Putting a price tag on paradise

A group of ecologists and economists propose a new approach to valuing nature's worth. They suggest assigning an economic price tag to ecosystem services, such as pollination and water purification. By doing so, they hope to create financial incentives for protecting these vital resources.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience·DateJul 20, 2000

Program that provides family planning services to low income residents helps reduce rate of unintended pregnancies in the state

The California Family PACT program has significantly reduced the number of unintended pregnancies among low-income women in California. The program saved over $512 million in public expenditures by providing comprehensive family planning services to more than 1.5 million clients, including education, counseling, and clinical services.