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Science News for November 28, 2000


Weeding out better wines

A comprehensive study on organic weed control in vineyards will be conducted to produce valuable information on controlling weeds without using chemicals. The project aims to provide alternatives for Australian wine producers to maintain their clean reputation and avoid contamination scares.

Function follows form in developing myocytes

Researchers discover that mechanical deformation, such as stretching, can induce the expression of smooth muscle cell proteins and is crucial for normal lung development. This pathway may be disrupted in fetuses with oligohydramnion, leading to hypoplastic lungs.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 28, 2000

Recombinant yeast as an antifungal vaccine

Researchers have developed a recombinant yeast antifungal vaccine that protects mice from infection with blastomycosis, a deadly yeast infection of the lung. The vaccine uses a live attenuated strain of Blastomyces dermatitidis to stimulate an immune response against the pathogen.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 28, 2000

Insects caught in a nutrient-poor food web

A study published in Nature found that plant-eating insects have diets so poor in nutrients they impair growth, unlike aquatic animals which thrive on nutrient-rich foods. The researchers analyzed the chemical composition of plants and animals to determine how different environments affect food webs.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature·DateNov 28, 2000

UCSF analysis suggests strengthening conflict of interest policies governing clinical trials at nation's major medical research centers

A UCSF study analyzed conflict of interest policies at top US medical schools, finding 'loopholes' in disclosure and conflict management. The researchers suggest prohibiting investigators from holding stock or decision-making positions in companies that may be affected by the trial.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 28, 2000

Finding a market for 'ecosystem services'

A group of scientists, lawyers, conservationists, economists, and policymakers came together at Stanford to discuss novel ways to market ecosystem services. The workshop aimed to protect the ecosystem by putting an economic value on its less tangible services, such as water purification and flood control.