More Stories from the September 2, 2000 issue
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Brain-Cell Loss Found in Narcolepsy
The puzzling sleep disorder known as narcolepsy stems from the destruction of a small group of brain cells.
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NIH OKs work on stem cells
The U.S. government opened the door for U.S. scientists to receive federal funding for research on stem cells from human embryos.
- Chemistry
Additive gives improved mileage, less smog
A new fuel additive, polyisobutylene, decreases automobile emissions by 70 percent while increasing power and mileage.
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Gene find could yield decaffeinated plants
The first published report of cloning a gene for caffeine synthesis raises the possibility of creating decaf plants.
- Astronomy
Neutron stars twist Einstein’s theory
Astronomers may finally have found evidence of a key prediction of Einstein's general theory of relativity—that a spinning object drags space-time along with it.
- Health & Medicine
Carotid surgery stands test of time
Surgery to remove blockages from the carotid artery in the neck has lasting effects against stroke over several years and even provides some benefit when it's delayed.
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Strep infection sets off tics in some kids
Some children may have a genetic susceptibility to developing obsessive-compulsive disorder and tic ailments after a streptococcal infection.
- Earth
Study gives new answer for muddy mystery
Geologists provide evidence that quartz silt in ancient seabeds doesn't come from eroded land rocks, but rather from the dissolved skeletons of tiny primitive creatures, possibly altering the fossil record and changing models of prehistoric climate and ocean geography.
- Health & Medicine
Marrow converted into brain cells
Scientists can now efficiently transform bone marrow into nerve cells.
- Health & Medicine
Sperm just say NO to egg cells
Sperm fertilizing an egg produce a whiff of nitric oxide.
- Health & Medicine
Data faked in immune-system study
A researcher fabricated evidence suggesting that never-before-seen RNA-DNA-hybrid molecules play a role in creating antibodies.
- Health & Medicine
Coffee linked to rheumatoid arthritis
People who drink four or more cups of coffee per day appear more likely to get rheumatoid arthritis than are those drinking less.
- Health & Medicine
Do zinc lozenges shorten common colds?
People taking zinc to fight a cold report less coughing, less nasal discharge, and a shorter cold than do people getting a placebo.
- Humans
Cutting edge chemistry rushes online
A new online server offers a place for communicating chemistry research to other scientists quickly and without peer review.
- Humans
Russia’s nuclear-safety issues spread
A leading Russian environmentalist, Aleksandr Nikitin, says Russia's problems with nuclear-waste management should concern people beyond that country's borders.
- Tech
Coddled crystal slams door on light
A better fabrication process yields such a high-quality optical material that microchips using light, rather than electrons, may be close to reality.
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- Earth
New Concerns about Phthalates
Boys may face an eventual reproductive risk from exposure to some of the ingredients that go into many common plastics, cosmetics, and medical supplies.
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