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Science News for March 2, 1998


Computer Program Helps Design New Antennas for Navy Ships

A computer program developed at Ohio State University has enabled the U.S. Navy to design a new system of antennas that reduces radio interference and makes its destroyers less visible to enemy radar. The NEC-BSC program traces the path of electromagnetic waves and allows for the design of lighter materials and improved radar performance.

SourceOhio State University·DateMar 2, 1998

Researchers Closing In On Gene For Paralytic Disorder

Scientists have mapped a defective gene responsible for hereditary amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to chromosome 9, bringing closer the isolation of the gene and potential treatment options. The gene is suspected to be linked to similar neurodegenerative disorders, with symptoms appearing in childhood but never being fatal.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateMar 2, 1998
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

UF Researchers Use Gene Therapy To Prevent Hypertension, Organ Damage

Researchers at the University of Florida successfully prevented high blood pressure and its damaging effects on the heart and kidneys in laboratory animals. The study used gene therapy to decrease the effectiveness of angiotensin II, a hormone that regulates blood pressure, and showed promising results.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 2, 1998

PEBBLEs Help U-M Scientists Open A Window On Cell Chemistry

University of Michigan researchers have created the smallest biosensors ever developed, which can detect subtle changes in living cells' biochemistry. These probes, called PEBBLEs, contain dye that glows when exposed to specific ions or molecules, allowing real-time monitoring of cell processes.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateMar 2, 1998
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

NICHD-Funded Researchers Map Physical Basis Of Dyslexia

A study using fMRI technology reveals impaired brain function in individuals with dyslexia when performing phonetic reading tasks. Dyslexic readers showed reduced activity in the angular gyrus and superior temporal gyrus brain regions.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 2, 1998

New Software Makes More Reliable Cast Metal Parts

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a fast new method to analyze part designs and locate potential defects that may form in die-cast metal parts. The binary voxel model uses geometry to simulate die casting, producing an image with color-coded areas of concern. This method can identify weak spots in seconds, unlike more...

SourceOhio State University·JournalComputer-Aided Design·DateMar 2, 1998

Detailed Images From Jupiter Moon Europa Point To Slush Below Surface

Recent data from NASA's Galileo spacecraft suggests that Jupiter's moon Europa may have a slushy ocean beneath its icy surface, with evidence including shallow impact craters and gaps in the ice. The findings support the idea that warmth from tidal forces could be keeping parts of the ocean liquid.

SourceBrown University·DateMar 2, 1998

Internal Clocks Keep Everything From Humans To Algae Ticking

Vanderbilt University biologist Carl Johnson's research finds that internal clocks in humans and lower organisms are entrained by both artificial and natural light. The human biological clock speeds up with age, leading to early wake-up times and sleep disruptions, while napping is an innate function.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·DateMar 2, 1998
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Measurement Technique Provides Snapshot Of Cell Physiology

A new measurement technique developed by researchers at the University of Illinois can identify and measure up to 30 compounds found in a single cell. The method uses nanoliter sampling, capillary electrophoresis, and fluorescence spectroscopy to provide a detailed snapshot of the cell's physiology.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNeuron·DateMar 2, 1998

Fathers Strongly Influence Mothers' Decision To Breast-Feed

A new study at Ohio State University reveals that three out of four mothers feel their partner's opinion greatly influences their decision to breast-feed. Fathers' negative attitudes about breast-feeding often stem from misconceptions or feelings of being left out, but education can change these attitudes.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of the American Dietetic Association·DateMar 2, 1998

Study of Trampoline-Related Injuries Calls For Ban On Devices

A new study by Ohio State University researchers found a significant surge in trampoline-related injuries among children, with almost 250,000 treated between 1990 and 1995. The annual number of injuries grew from 29,600 to 58,400 per year during this period, with younger children most often suffering fractures or dislocations.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 2, 1998
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Most Comprehensive Study Of Its Kind Shows Common Asthma Medications Don't Cause Behavioral Problems In Children, According To The Journal Pediatrics

A recent study by National Jewish Health found that no significant side effects or differences were found between beclomethasone and theophylline in children with asthma. The research suggests that these medications can be used without concern for behavioral problems, but may cause changes in pre-school age children.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 2, 1998

3-D Structure of Human Tumor-Suppressor Protein Produced

The study, led by Ming-Daw Tsai, used nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to determine the 3D structure of the p16 protein. The researchers aim to develop a drug that mimics p16 to treat cancer, which is expected to target more than 70 different types of cancer.

SourceOhio State University·JournalMolecular Cell·DateMar 2, 1998

GrantsNet Goes Live On the Web

GrantsNet provides an extensive database of fellowships, grants, and funding opportunities for young biomedical scientists. The site offers insights from previous recipients, tips for improving chances of receiving support, and information on various programs.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·DateMar 2, 1998

Just-Published Abstract Answers Thousands Of Questions About Illinois

The 1997 Illinois Statistical Abstract offers detailed information on various aspects of the state, including corn production, women-owned firms, cancer deaths, and per-capita personal income. The book provides a comprehensive overview of Illinois in all its diversity.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateMar 2, 1998
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

People Want Direct Physician Involvement In Assisted Suicides

A study of 514 Ohio residents found that 54% would support assisted suicide if doctors took an active role, such as giving a lethal injection. This result contradicts the leaders of the assisted suicide movement who advocate for less physician involvement and more patient control.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateMar 2, 1998

The First Case Of Alzheimer's Disease: Original Brain Sections Found

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology have rediscovered brain sections of Auguste D., a 51-year-old woman with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. The analysis confirmed the presence of neurofibrillary tangles and amyloid plaques, consistent with today's understanding of the disease.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNeurogenetics·DateMar 2, 1998

Panel Recommends Types Of Automation For Air-Traffic Control

A National Research Council panel recommends more automation in air-traffic control to enhance safety and efficiency. The panel advises against fully automating tasks that require human judgment, instead focusing on tools that assist controllers with understanding and predicting situations.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateMar 2, 1998