Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for January 8, 2003


Black holes form first, galaxies follow

A new study suggests that black holes can form before galaxies, with massive black holes found in even the smallest active galaxies. The research, led by Marianne Vestergaard at Ohio State University, uses a method to estimate the mass of distant black holes and finds that they are often more massive than previously thought.

Chemicals used to protect soldiers in 1991 Gulf War can damage testes, animal studies show

A combination of DEET, permethrin, and pyridostigmine bromide may have inadvertently damaged Gulf War soldiers' testes and sperm production, according to a Duke University Medical Center study. The chemicals caused extensive cell degeneration and cell death in rats, leading to severe testicular damage.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Toxicology and Environmental Health·DateJan 8, 2003

The hard work of vigilance can improve on cue

Researchers found that providing reliable warning cues enhances vigilance performance, maintaining attention and efficiency over time. The study's results have practical implications for designing operational cueing systems to reduce brain strain and improve safety in various applications.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalTheoretical Issues in Ergonomics Science·DateJan 8, 2003