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Science News Archive February 2002 - Page 2


Page 2 of 8

Rutgers researcher develops new UV technology

A new method for producing ultraviolet (UV) light has been patented by Rutgers researchers, providing a more energy-efficient source with higher power and lower maintenance. The technology has broad industrial and commercial applications in the semiconductor, printing, and lighting industries.

'Smart' methods for detecting computer network intruders

The researchers report that the rough sets method offers significant advantages in intrusion detection, including the ability to work with missing values and imprecise data. The team's study found an average classification accuracy rate of 75.68% for rough sets, compared to 69.78% for neural nets and 51.16% for inductive learning.

SourcePenn State·JournalDecision Sciences·DateFeb 25, 2002

Physical activity is key to maintaining normal weight after weight loss

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that women who gained weight after weight loss had significantly lower energy expenditure due to physical inactivity. To match their initial weight, these individuals would need to engage in at least 80 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per day.

SourceAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateFeb 22, 2002

Moderate alcohol consumption reduces cardiovascular risk in postmenopausal women

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that moderate alcohol consumption can lower cardiovascular risk factors in postmenopausal women. The researchers observed significant improvements in lipid profiles, with a greater benefit for those starting with higher levels of LDL-cholesterol and triacylglycerols.

SourceAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateFeb 22, 2002

Chinese tallow tree invades Texas prairies

The Chinese tallow tree is outcompeting native species in Texas prairies due to its ability to grow quickly and use nitrogen inefficiently. Researchers are studying methods to control the spread of the invasive tree using techniques such as fire, flooding, and fertilization.

Maternal feeding practices are linked to childhood obesity

Research by Spruijt-Metz et al. found that maternal feeding practices are a strong predictor of childhood obesity, with controlling feeding strategies potentially interfering with children's ability to self-regulate their food intake. The study suggests that future obesity prevention efforts should focus on improving parental feeding b...

SourceAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateFeb 22, 2002

Mayo Clinic study defines patients at greater risk for developing multiple myeloma and related bone marrow cancers

The Mayo Clinic study found that the risk of progression from MGUS to multiple myeloma or related cancers is approximately one percent per year, with larger M-protein levels increasing the risk. Patients with very small protein levels had a 14% progression rate at 20 years, while those with high levels had a 60% progression rate.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 22, 2002

HRT could protect against leg ulcers

A recent study published in The Lancet found that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may help prevent venous leg ulcers and pressure sores in elderly women. Researchers analyzed data from over 45,000 patients and discovered a 35% lower risk of developing these chronic wounds among HRT users.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 21, 2002

Common microbes survive pressures equal to those found at 50 kilometers inside the Earth’s crust

Researchers use diamond anvil cells to test bacteria's survival under extreme pressure, finding they can withstand conditions similar to deep ocean trenches and the deep crust. The study's findings raise questions about the impact of pressure on life's evolution and expand our understanding of potential habitable niches beyond Earth.

Leptin replacement therapy reduces metabolic abnormalities in patients with rare fat disorders, researchers report

Researchers report significant improvements in patients with rare fat disorders who received leptin replacement therapy, including reduced triglyceride levels and liver fat accumulation. The therapy also controlled severe insulin resistance and improved blood glucose levels in most participants.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 20, 2002