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Science News Archive May 2002 - Page 8


Page 8 of 9

Natural cholesterol-lowerer shows the way

A study published in Science identifies guggulipid as a target for developing drugs to lower cholesterol. The extract, combined with a cholesterol-lowering diet, reduced cholesterol levels by up to 20%. Researchers are now studying the biochemical reasons behind this effect and its potential impact on other medications.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalScience·DateMay 2, 2002

Planning could preserve urban forests for future enjoyment

A recent study by Penn State researchers found that urban forest fires have led to increased tree density of specific species in New York City's undeveloped parklands. In contrast, an old-growth urban forest in Cleveland, Ohio, has remained stable with no history of forest fires since 1935.

SourcePenn State·JournalArboricultural Journal·DateMay 2, 2002

Scientist explores the future of research collaboration

Researchers examine the evolution of collaboration, from World War I to modern-day global partnerships, highlighting its benefits and impact on scientific productivity. The study also delves into how emerging technologies like email and the Internet have revolutionized research collaboration, making it more diverse and effective.

SourceWilliams College·JournalScientometrics·DateMay 2, 2002

Gene may link alcohol drinking and stress, mouse study suggests in Science

A German study on mice found that genetic variations in a key stress-response gene may contribute to excessive alcohol consumption under stressful conditions. The researchers identified a specific receptor, CRH1, which is associated with increased alcohol intake in stressed mice, suggesting potential targets for preventing relapse.

Hopkins scientists reveal how sound becomes electric

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have made a breakthrough discovery in understanding how we hear, revealing that tiny 'hair cells' release a barrage of chemical packets to an adjacent nerve when sound is detected. This finding could improve the design and programming of hearing aids and cochlear implants.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 2, 2002

Disorder forces DNA molecules out of tight spaces

DNA molecules are pulled into a dense array of pillars by an electric field and then recoil back into the open space due to entropic forces. The researchers estimate the minimum entropic force at 5.7 femtoNewtons, suggesting this method could be used to separate molecules by length.

SourceCornell University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 2, 2002

A new weapon to disable bacteria discovered

Scientists have identified a mechanism by which neutrophils can neutralize disease-causing bacteria like Shigella and Salmonella. Elastase, an enzyme produced by neutrophils, destroys virulent proteins in bacteria, allowing for the mobilization of other defenses that can destroy the bacteria.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateMay 2, 2002

Working in Britain in 2000

A survey of nearly 2,500 employed people in Britain found that employees express declining loyalty to their organisations, working harder and longer. However, a growing proportion of the workforce needs advanced information technology skills, with most occupational groups indicating these skills are essential for their work.