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Science News for June 8, 2000


Water-bearing salt crystals come from dawn of solar system, UK researchers report inScience

Scientists at the University of Manchester and the Natural History Museum in London found water-bearing salt crystals within the Zag meteorite that may have formed just two million years after the solar system's birth. This discovery could indicate that hospitable conditions for life might have arisen earlier than previously thought.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 8, 2000

Computer model to predict toxic algal outbreaks

A new computer model has shown early success in predicting toxic blue-green algae blooms up to four weeks before they occur. The model uses artificial neural networks to learn key factors contributing to algal outbreaks, enabling accurate forecasts and better understanding of the factors involved.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·DateJun 8, 2000

Brain-wiring receptor shows extraordinary diversity

Researchers identified a new axon guidance receptor, Dscam, found in the tips of growing neurons that can exist in over 38,000 different forms. This unprecedented diversity may provide a fundamental code for precise wiring of trillions of neurons in the brain.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalCell·DateJun 8, 2000
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Anti-angiogenic drug much more effective when immune system primed against cancer

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute found that triggering an anti-tumor immune response significantly potentiates the effects of the anti-angiogenic drug endostatin. The study showed that half of treated animals experienced complete and permanent regression of tumors, suggesting a highly effective cancer therapy.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·DateJun 8, 2000

UCSF finding could lead to long-sought alternative to morphine

Researchers found that administering low to moderate doses of kappa-opioids in conjunction with naloxone causes profound, prolonged pain relief in both men and women. This discovery provides a significant alternative to morphine with minimal side effects.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of Pain·DateJun 8, 2000

UCSD scientists awarded major environmental health grant

The UCSD Superfund program will conduct projects on 20 toxic contaminants, studying their effects on humans, animals, and the environment. Researchers will use molecular biology and recombinant DNA technology to develop tools for evaluating health risks and minimizing hazardous risks.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateJun 8, 2000