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Science News Archive 1999


Page 20 of 54

Biologists predict more marine disease

Biologists predict that global warming and pollution will lead to more frequent die-offs of sea life, with diseases such as distemper and herpes virus spreading among marine organisms. The study highlights the need for interdisciplinary research to understand the impacts of climate change on ocean epidemics.

Jurassic period mammal teeth found; prevailing theories challenged

Three tiny teeth found in a piece of lower jawbone from a small Jurassic period mammal on Madagascar's island, contradicting widely-held ideas on mammalian evolution. The discovery more than doubles the age of the oldest known mammal from Madagascar and provides new insights into early branching events in the family tree of mammals.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Biologically inspired electronics leads to higher fidelity

Researchers at Boston University developed a biologically inspired model to improve the fidelity of electronic devices by mimicking the noise-shaping abilities of neuronal networks. The system can effectively filter out unwanted information and identify desired signals over a wider bandwidth.

Why prostate cancer homes to bone

Scientists found that osteonectin, a bone protein, attracts prostate cancer cells and stimulates their invasion. This discovery has important implications for the treatment of prostate cancer and other bone-seeking cancers.

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Seeing quantum mechanics: Image of orbitals confirms bonding hypothesis

Researchers at Arizona State University have achieved clear images of electron orbitals in Cu2O, verifying the hypothesis that both ionic and covalent bonding occurs in the material. The images show complex formations resembling a dumbbell shape, indicating the presence of metal-to-metal bonds.

Sailing through space on hot plasma

Winglee's design harnesses solar wind to accelerate spacecraft, potentially reaching speeds of over 100km/s. The sailcloth is a magnetic field that repels ions and charged particles, exerting a small but steady force on the spacecraft.

A dream team tackles the brain

Boston University scientists are developing a new form of microscopy that utilizes entangled-photon fluorescence microscopy to observe brain synapses. This technology holds promise for unraveling the century-old question of how dendritic spines function, crucial for cognitive processes like learning and memory.

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Ancient viruses lurking in polar ice

Researchers have discovered a prehistoric virus in Arctic ice that could potentially re-emerge as the climate warms. The ancient tomato mosaic tobamovirus was found in ice cores dating back 500 to 140,000 years, raising concerns about the possibility of new epidemics.

Study finds highway traffic speed to be an illusion

A new study led by Dr. Don Redelmeier found that people overestimate the speed of vehicles in the next lane, leading to unnecessary lane changes. Staying in one's lane is safer and achieves similar travel times as more aggressive driving.

UI study suggests genetics and gender affect human response to endotoxin

A recent University of Iowa Health Care study found that genetic factors and sex differences significantly affect human responses to endotoxin, with women more likely to experience declined airway function. The study examined 72 individuals without respiratory conditions and discovered a wide range of reactions to the contaminant.

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.

A new device for detecting illicit plutonium

A new radiation detector based on optical fibers has been developed to detect illicit plutonium. The device is light, flexible, and can be used in various applications, including airport security and medical treatments for brain tumors.

Cholesterol guidelines can reduce recurrent heart problems

Researchers found that people with heart disease can expect greater benefits from lowering cholesterol levels than those without, with a 60% decrease in heart attacks and 80% decrease in deaths. Emphasizing secondary prevention is now considered more cost-effective due to these significant benefits.

First gene defect identified for precursor to adult diabetes

Scientists have identified a genetic defect linked to insulin resistance and adult diabetes, providing a target for potential new treatments. The Q allele of the PC-1 gene is three times more common among insulin-resistant people and twice as frequent among adult diabetics.

Research puts sting into drama of virus-cell fusion

Researchers at Purdue University have identified a protein segment crucial for the infection of cells by retroviruses and other viruses. By replacing just one amino acid in this region, they were able to eliminate fusion between the virus and its host cell. This discovery may lead to novel treatments to block the entry of these viruses.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Genome tools pass big test in fruit flies

Researchers have successfully developed and used several types of tools to analyze the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster genome, extracting valuable information about genes and their function. The findings include a large-scale analysis of over 1,000 mutant fly strains, which identified more than 250 new genes.

Wistar Institute scientists find key piece in gene regulation puzzle

Wistar Institute scientists have determined the three-dimensional structure of a key enzyme involved in gene activation, GCN5. The study reveals details on how the enzyme carries out its function and identifies the structural adjustments needed for proper regulation of gene activation.

Study shows black churches can help improve healthy behaviors

A large-scale study found that participating in church-related activities increased fruit and vegetable consumption among black church members. The study involved 50 black churches and over 2,500 participants, with the most significant increases seen among frequent churchgoers.

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Physical exercise improves cancer patients' health

Cancer patients who participate in regular physical exercise programs show significant improvements in physical and mental health, including enhanced stamina, muscle strength, and pain management. The studies found that exercise has a positive effect on quality of life, including functional, psychological, and emotional well-being.

Public strongly associates violence with mental illness

A majority of Americans believe certain types of mental illnesses cause violent behavior, with over 90% linking stress as a cause. This stereotype persists despite recognition of mental illness and its causes, leading to social distance and reluctance to interact.

Researchers discover genetic basis of heritable sleep disorder

A team of researchers has identified a single gene that causes familial advanced sleep phase syndrome (FASPS), a rare sleep disorder. The study found that the disorder follows a simple Mendelian inheritance pattern, making it easier to find the responsible gene and potentially leading to new treatments for circadian rhythm disorders.

Federal, private funding to establish inflammatory disease center at UNC

The new center will conduct studies and educational activities to understand the underlying mechanisms of inflammatory diseases and their relationship to oral inflammation and systemic conditions. The research aims to improve diagnosis and treatment of patients by identifying similarities between inflammatory conditions.

Aging hearts need social support

A recent study found that older adults with strong social connections have lower blood pressure and are less likely to develop heart disease. In contrast, those with low social support experience higher resting blood pressures, even at a younger age.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

The effects of St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Research published in Molecular Psychiatry found St. John's Wort to have a better antidepressant effect than placebo and comparable effects to standard antidepressants. The herb's favorable side effect profile may contribute to its advantages over other medications.

Stigma of mental illness still exists

A new national survey reveals evidence of stigma toward mentally ill individuals, viewing them as less competent and more violent. The study found that people with schizophrenia are viewed as more unable to manage daily affairs than those with depression.

DNA fingerprinting reveals surprise in wine-grape family tree

Researchers used DNA fingerprinting to identify 16 wine-grape varieties, including Chardonnay, as the offspring of Pinot and Gouais blanc. This discovery provides valuable information for grape breeders, allowing them to preserve old varieties and develop new ones.

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Cigarette brand switchers more likely to quit smoking

Smokers who switch to lower tar or nicotine cigarettes for 'health reasons' are more likely to quit smoking compared to those who continue to smoke regular cigarette brands. Researchers found that 'switchers' were less dependent on nicotine and had a higher intake of fruits and vegetables.

Non-drug techniques help reduce symptoms of fibromyalgia

Patients with fibromyalgia syndrome experience significant improvements in physical condition, symptom reports, and mental state when using non-drug treatments like exercise and cognitive behavioral therapy. Non-drug techniques were found to be superior to medication alone in reducing symptoms and improving daily functioning.

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Chandra observes star's corona with unprecedented clarity

The High Energy Transmission Grating Spectrometer has made the most precise measurements ever recorded of a star's corona, revealing new insights into stellar behavior. The instrument's success marks a major milestone for modern astronomy, enabling scientists to study the chemical composition and temperature of the corona with unpreced...

Study finds parental influence still important during adolescence

A study at Ohio State University found that parents continue to have a significant influence on their adolescents' behavior throughout the teen years. The research tracked 1,725 children for five years, revealing that the effect of friends and school grew during early adolescence, but parental influence remained steady.

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.

Some adults believe illness can be 'payback' for bad behavior

A new study reveals that up to 44% of adults believe in the concept of 'immanent justice,' where bad behavior leads to severe illnesses. The study, conducted by Ohio State University researchers, found that language plays a significant role in shaping beliefs on this topic.

3-D, virtual man simulates radiation's effect on the body

Xie George Xu's 3D virtual man, VIP-Man, simulates radiation's effect on the skin, lens of the eye, optic nerve, and bone marrow with high accuracy. The model will enable accurate treatment planning for diseases requiring radiation therapy, revolutionizing radiation dosimetry in biomedical sciences and engineering.

Microbes in basalt thrive on mixed diet of toxic waste

Scientists discovered that microorganisms in basalt rock can reduce toxic hexavalent chromium to less toxic forms, especially in the presence of volatile organic compounds. The researchers found that certain bacteria, such as Arthrobacter oxydans, play a key role in this process.

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.

Landmark obesity study

Researchers at Denver's Eleanor Roosevelt Institute have identified a gene linked to obesity in mice, which also plays a role in humans. The study suggests that targeting this gene could lead to effective weight control and potentially even help with diseases like Down syndrome and epilepsy.

Scientists suggest genetic shutdown links estrogen, heart disease

Researchers found that methylation of estrogen receptor genes may be linked to atherosclerosis and increased risk of heart disease in women. The study suggests that a genetic shutdown may contribute to the perplexing results of hormone replacement therapy on heart disease.

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.

Inflammatory pain may help deter inflammatory diseases like arthritis

Researchers at UC San Francisco found that activated pain nerve fibers dampen the inflammatory response's first line of attack, preventing chronic diseases. The study suggests that pain acts as a negative feedback control of inflammation, which can help prevent chronic inflammatory diseases.

Gene protects tubby mouse strain from hearing loss

Researchers at The Jackson Laboratory have identified a chromosomal region that interacts with the tub mutation to prevent deafness in the tubby mouse model. The region, known as moth1, maps to mouse Chromosome 2 and was found to protect C57BL/6J mice from hearing loss.

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Students get better grades when tested frequently in class

According to Bruce W. Tuckman, frequent quizzes can significantly improve students' grades by reducing procrastination and increasing motivation. Students with low GPAs who received weekly quizzes outperformed their peers by an average of 4-24% on midterm and final exam grades.

UMass polymer scientists: Tackiness is a matter of degrees

Researchers at the University of Massachusetts have created a switchable adhesive coating that relies on temperature changes to control its stickiness. This technology has potential applications in self-cleaning tennis racquets and golf club grips, improving performance and durability.

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.