Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News Archive March 2000 - Page 4


Page 4 of 7

Hockey injuries exact terrible toll

A Canadian Medical Association Journal study found that pushes from behind and impacts with the boards account for most spinal injuries in ice hockey. The study also revealed regional disparities and a disturbingly low median age of injured players, highlighting the need for prevention strategies.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 20, 2000

Scientists capture new images of movement in nerves

Researchers have captured the first pictures of neurofilaments moving along nerve fibers using time-lapse photography, providing a rare glimpse into slow axonal transport. The study suggests that neurofilaments move quickly but infrequently, and may hold clues to understanding nerve malfunction in diseases like Lou Gehrig's.

SourceOhio University·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMar 20, 2000

MTBE threatens thousands of public drinking wells

A new study estimates that up to 9,000 community water wells in 31 states may be contaminated with methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) due to their proximity to leaking underground storage tanks. This could pose a risk to the approximately 90 million people who obtain drinking water from these wells.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 19, 2000

Environmental and genetic factors influence development of psychiatric disorder

A recent study suggests that environmental factors play a significant role in the development of psychiatric disorders, alongside genetic factors. Research findings indicate that adversity and social determinants can contribute to the onset of conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and antisocial personality disorder.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateMar 19, 2000

Parents pass on religious beliefs more by word than by deed

A recent Purdue University study discovered that parents' influence on their children's religious beliefs is largely shaped by verbal communication rather than actual practice. The research found that students who had open discussions with their parents about religious beliefs were more likely to accurately perceive their parents' views.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Applied Developmental Psychology·DateMar 19, 2000

NIAMS-funded analysis of glucosamine/chondroitin sulfate trials shows probable

A systematic analysis of clinical trials on glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate for treating osteoarthritis has shown mixed results, with potential benefits for symptom relief but methodological flaws and biases. The study recommends additional rigorous independent studies to determine true efficacy and usefulness.

Bitter taste receptors identified

Researchers have identified a new family of genes that encode proteins functioning as bitter taste receptors, providing crucial insight into the organization of the taste system. The study reveals that these receptors are expressed in cells that also express gustducin, a coupling protein critical for sending bitter signals to the brain.

UCSF study finds cash incentive improves adherence rates for TB prevention therapy among San Francisco homeless

A UCSF study found that offering a small cash incentive to homeless adults improved their adherence rates for TB prevention therapy, compared to traditional methods. The research involved over 100 participants and found that those who received the monetary incentive completed treatment at nearly double the rate of others.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateMar 16, 2000

Smoking linked to physical injuries

A recent study of Army recruits revealed that smokers were 1.5 times more likely than nonsmokers to suffer fractures, sprains, and other physical injuries during an eight-week basic training program. The researchers also found that risk of injury increased for both women and men who smoked.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMar 15, 2000

American Thoracic Society news tips for March 2000

Researchers found that treated sleep apnea patients experienced no auto accidents over two years. A new biochemical marker for acute lung injury has been discovered, correlating with damage to epithelial cells in the lungs. This discovery may lead to future blood tests for the deadly condition.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 15, 2000

Warmer climates favour the birth of boys

Research analyzing births in Malta and Western Europe from 1890 to 1995 found a strong association between lower birth rates for boys and colder climates. The study suggests that warmer climates favor the birth of boys, possibly due to temperature affecting fertility and sex ratios at birth.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateMar 14, 2000

Largest study finds evidence of association between EMFs and exposed worker suicide

A large US-based study found a distinct association between low-frequency electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure and increased suicide risk among electric utility workers. The study, published in Occupational and Environmental Medicine, suggests that EMF exposure may contribute to depression and suicidal behavior, particularly among youn...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateMar 14, 2000