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Science News for April 16, 2004


Rewriting textbooks on DNA crossover

Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery about DNA crossover during meiosis, which is crucial for sexual reproduction. The new findings suggest that the decision to make a crossover or non-crossover recombination is made much earlier than previously thought, shedding light on the molecular basis of this process.

Hobby-Eberly Telescope witnesses vaporizing of a cometlike body by a very young hot star

A team of astronomers at Penn State used the Hobby-Eberly Telescope to detect a cometlike body falling onto a massive, very young star. The infall, which occurred about 3200 years ago, provided dramatic spectral variations in the star's light. This discovery sheds light on planetary formation and the evolution of massive star systems.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 16, 2004

Effects of ocean fertilization with iron to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere reported

Scientists have quantified the transport of carbon from surface waters to the deep ocean in response to iron fertilization. The study found that while iron fertilization can enhance carbon flux and reduce atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, the quantities removed are no greater than natural plankton blooms, making it a limited solution.

Crowding stem cells' personal space directs their future

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that mesenchymal stem cell shape is a critical factor in determining which type of cell they will become. By using micropatterning technology, the team showed that spherical stem cells efficiently transform into fat cell precursors, while those allowed to stretch and flatten move closer to be...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateApr 16, 2004

Time with patients, staff support boost flu shot rates

A study found that when doctors spend at least 10 minutes with patients, inquire about immunizations before exams, have four staff members, and hold down waiting room time, over 90% of patients are properly vaccinated. Critical path analysis revealed the full sequence of events was more powerful than individual activities.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateApr 16, 2004

Mental health symptoms common at Pentagon after 9/11

A study of Pentagon personnel found that nearly 21 percent experienced mental health symptoms, including generalized anxiety and depression, following the 9/11 attacks. The researchers also discovered that a significant portion of those at high risk for mental health problems sought counseling after the attack.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateApr 16, 2004