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Science News for October 29, 1998


Geologic “X-Rays” Pinpoint Weak Spots On Volcano Surface

Volcanologists at the University at Buffalo have developed a method to analyze satellite data and identify weak spots on a volcano's surface. By interpreting the data, they can determine properties such as water or iron-bearing minerals that contribute to weakening of the volcanic structure.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateOct 29, 1998

It's Not My Fault: New Study Shakes Up Interest In Earthquakes

A new study found that surface fractures and strains in a 1971 California earthquake were caused by two nearby faults, contributing to damage to streets, highways, and buildings. The study also revealed that the San Fernando fault zone is 11 miles long, instead of the previously assessed 8 miles.

SourcePurdue University·DateOct 29, 1998

New Radio Antennas May Cool Car Interiors, Defrost Car Windows

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed new radio antennas that can be embedded in car windshields, potentially reducing the need for air conditioning and making cars more energy-efficient. The designs use materials already present in car windows to create invisible antennas that receive AM and FM signals.

SourceOhio State University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Vehicular Technology·DateOct 29, 1998
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Medication Used To Stop Organ Rejection Found to Successfully Treat The Most Common, Chronic Skin Disease In Children

Researchers have found that tacrolimus can effectively treat moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis in children, with a success rate of 67-70% and minimal systemic side effects. This treatment approach offers an alternative to corticosteroid ointments, which can cause skin thinning and other complications.

SourceNational Jewish Health·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateOct 29, 1998

Researchers To Study Electricity Deregulation

The Cornell researchers will examine new operating rules for the system and the effects of alternative market structures using a simulated Northeast electricity grid and laboratory experiments. They aim to strike a balance between ideal market mechanisms and traditional utility practices while maintaining system stability and reliability.

SourceCornell University·DateOct 29, 1998

Aquaculture: Not An Easy Answer To Overfishing

A new report reveals that shrimp and salmon aquaculture may be depleting fisheries, disrupting coastal ecosystems, and polluting the ocean due to unsustainable practices. Improved practices, such as reducing fish feed requirements and minimizing pollution, are needed to make these industries more sustainable.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience·DateOct 29, 1998

X-Rays For Cars

A new X-ray device developed by YSI (UK) allows manufacturers to ensure proper protective coatings and layers of paint on car body parts, reducing corrosion. The device takes five seconds to work and is safer than alternative methods, making it suitable for the steel and aluminum industries.

SourceInstitute of Materials·JournalMaterials World·DateOct 29, 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.

Cell Suicide Prevented By Survival Signals

Researchers identify Hid protein as a key player in preventing programmed cell death, finding it relies on survival signals for regulation. The discovery has potential applications in treating neurodegenerative diseases and conditions like stroke.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalCell·DateOct 29, 1998

Rigs 'n' Space

Researchers are developing a non-destructive testing technique that can detect cracks in materials and welds under extreme conditions. This technology is being adapted for use in space to test the International Space Station and other structures, reducing the need for costly repairs.

SourceInstitute of Materials·JournalMaterials World·DateOct 29, 1998

Magnetic Manipulation For Molten Metals

Research at Cambridge and Oxford universities is using magnetic forces to levitate, stir and dam molten metal, reducing pollution and increasing efficiency. New devices are producing high-quality sheet metal with reduced edges and improved aluminum smelting costs.

SourceInstitute of Materials·JournalMaterials World·DateOct 29, 1998

Research Suggests New Way To Gauge A Woman's Fertility

Measuring the levels of inhibin-a and inhibin-b in older women shows a more sensitive test for reproductive potential compared to FSH. The research found that inhibin levels drop as women approach menopause, indicating a direct measure of ovarian function.

SourceOhio State University·JournalFertility and Sterility·DateOct 29, 1998

'Smart' Material Superconductors

A new technique allows researchers to design materials with specific grain boundary structures, giving 'smart' characteristics. This could enable the creation of self-regulating superconductors that can switch off during power surges, improving chip quality and lifespan.

SourceInstitute of Materials·JournalMaterials World·DateOct 29, 1998
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

New Study: Naming Trends Change More Often For Girls Than Boys

A recent study by Ohio University found that popular female names change more frequently than those of men, with no clear reason for the difference. Women's greater comfort with change may be a contributing factor. Meanwhile, some male names have started to show variation in popularity.

SourceOhio University·JournalPsychological Reports·DateOct 29, 1998

Cure Rate Soars For Some AML Patients Receiving High-Dose Drug

A study led by Ohio State University found that high-dose cytarabine increased the cure rate of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients with core binding factor AML to nearly five times, with a 78% remission rate among those receiving the treatment. The standard dose resulted in only 16% remission rates

SourceOhio State University·JournalCancer Research·DateOct 29, 1998

Alcohol Is Prime-Time TV's Favorite Beverage

A new study found that prime-time TV programs show alcohol more frequently than any other drink or food, and adolescent characters are almost twice as likely to drink it compared to older characters.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol·DateOct 29, 1998

Scientists Propose Layered Model Of Earth's Inner Core

Researchers Xiaodong Song and Don Helmberger found two distinct layers in the inner core: a spherical lower part and an uneven upper layer with different material properties. The findings may affect the formation of the Earth's magnetic field.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateOct 29, 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.