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Science News for October 24, 2001


In a show of entropy's benefits, scientists find 'fuzzy' molecules can assemble precisely into distinct lattices

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that adding a 'fuzz' of chemical chains to colloidal molecules can lead to the formation of predictable arrays of lattices. This entropy-driven phenomenon offers promise for designing new materials rationally rather than through trial and error.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateOct 24, 2001

Researchers find that sustained-release fluoride significantly reduces risk for vertebral fractures

A 42-month study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that sustained-release sodium fluoride safely reduces the risk for vertebral fractures and increases spinal bone mass in older women with osteoporosis. The treatment combination also reduced bone resorption when adequate calcium and vitamin D were provided.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateOct 24, 2001

Family relationships key to children's mental health, say University of Toronto researchers

A study by University of Toronto researchers found that anxious children with troubled families have poorer treatment outcomes. Children who felt their families were dysfunctional or their parents were stressed had poorer treatment outcomes. The study suggests including parents in the treatment process is crucial for effective therapy.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·DateOct 24, 2001

Plants, insects play cat and mouse game

Research by Professor Anurag Agrawal reveals that plants can detect the difference between various insect species and respond accordingly, adjusting their growth, behavior, and chemical defenses. In turn, insects adapt their phenotype and physiology to better digest the plant, highlighting a flexible co-evolutionary strategy.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalScience·DateOct 24, 2001

Estrogen doesn’t prevent second strokes: protective effects of hormone replacement therapy challenged

A new randomized, controlled clinical trial found no significant difference in the incidence of stroke or death among postmenopausal women who received estrogen therapy. The study suggests that estrogen should not be prescribed for preventing a second stroke or death in these patients.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 24, 2001

American Thoracic Society Journal News Tips for October (First Issue)

Researchers describe a new cause of respiratory failure in newborns and report a virulent Beijing strain causing a 'microepidemic' of TB on Gran Canaria Island. Exercise-induced oxidative stress may exacerbate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, according to studies published in the American Thoracic Society Journal.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateOct 24, 2001