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Science News for November 23, 2000


Zinc supplementation reduces duration of diarrheal episodes in infants in developing countries

A pooled analysis of randomized controlled trials found that zinc supplementation reduced the duration of diarrheal episodes in infants in developing countries by 16% overall. The study also showed a significant reduction in treatment failure or death rates, particularly among malnourished male children.

SourceAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateNov 23, 2000

Household exposure to passive smoke depletes some vitamins in non-smokers

A study found that household exposure to passive smoke is associated with lower serum concentrations of carotenoids and other micronutrients in non-smokers. This depletion may be due to cigarette smoke exposure, rather than shared inadequate diets, suggesting a possible causal link between passive smoking and nutrient deficiencies.

SourceAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateNov 23, 2000

Babies, Pacman and the doors of perception examined inScience

Eight-month-old babies demonstrate ability to bind attributes to form a whole object, as seen in the Kanizsa Square test. This skill, previously thought to develop later in childhood, reveals insights into early infant development and cognitive processing.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 23, 2000

Science'sNanotechnology Issue: 'Dancing' tin may promise new nanomotors

Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories discovered that dancing tin crystals can convert chemical energy into forward motion, overcoming friction between tin and the copper surface. This phenomenon could lead to surprisingly efficient nanomotors that can be controlled externally and refueled.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 23, 2000