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Science News Archive June 2003 - Page 2


Page 2 of 10

Critical infrastructure research improving public safety

Researchers are conducting critical infrastructure modeling and assessment to improve public safety. They analyze the connections between infrastructures, such as traffic lights and power plants, to anticipate potential failures. The project creates data visualizations to help policymakers understand the big picture.

Smoke-free rules may be good news for business

A study by Cornell University found that smoke-free regulations in New York restaurants and hotels did not harm employment or sales. In fact, the regulations led to a statistically significant increase in taxable sales and overall payrolls.

SourceCornell University·JournalCornell Hotel and Restaurant Administration Quarterly·DateJun 26, 2003

Purdue research: Better pharmaceuticals cost more

A study by Purdue University researchers found that patients experience more improvement in quality of life when taking more expensive pharmaceuticals, regardless of the ailment. The study suggests that government interference with market prices may reduce long-term drug development and potentially lead to fewer quality drugs.

SourcePurdue University·JournalDrug Information Journal·DateJun 26, 2003

Genetically modified E. coli produce plant product used in foods and cosmetics, Science study says

Researchers engineered bacteria to produce bixin, a plant product used in foods and cosmetics, by replicating the plant's biosynthetic pathway. The genetically modified E. coli can produce the same compound as the natural source, providing an alternative for expanding supply and addressing challenges in non-biological synthesis.

American Thoracic Society Journal news tips for July 2003 (first issue)

Researchers published studies on new treatments for severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), a potential new treatment for pulmonary hypertension in sickle cell patients using oral arginine, and the benefits of noninvasive ventilation. Early removal of breathing tubes, combined with noninvasive ventilation, significantly reduced hospi...

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJun 25, 2003

Of mice and memory

Researchers at USC developed synthetic enzymes that can combat oxidative damage, leading to improved memory in mice. The findings suggest these compounds may be more effective than traditional antioxidants in humans and could potentially treat various diseases with an oxidative component.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 25, 2003

Relocation of children after parents' divorce may lead to long-term problems, study suggests

A study of 602 college students found that relocation after parents' divorce is associated with negative effects on children's psychological and emotional adjustment, general life satisfaction, and financial support. The researchers warn that the results are correlational and more longitudinal research is needed to confirm the findings.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Family Psychology·DateJun 25, 2003

Cigarette smoke linked to low folate levels

Research suggests a significant association between cigarette smoke exposure and lower folate levels, potentially increasing the risk of diseases such as heart disease and breast cancer. The study found that red blood cell folate levels were 20% lower in current smokers compared to nonsmokers.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateJun 25, 2003

Risk of eye injuries from airbags very low

A recent study analyzed data from two Finnish cohorts and found the risk of any type of eye injury caused by airbags to be very slight, only 2.5 percent. Open eye injuries were more likely to occur among eyeglass wearers, but those who did not wear eyeglasses were more likely to suffer from injuries caused by airbag chemicals.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateJun 24, 2003