Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for March 23, 1999


Big Bang Theory Challenged

An Australian-led team of astronomers has discovered a significant number of stray stars, potentially altering our understanding of the universe's composition. These findings suggest that there may be as many stars living in intergalactic space as those within galaxy clusters.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateMar 23, 1999

Simple Method Will Help Test Theories About Nanotubes

Researchers have created a technique to measure the electrical characteristics of individual carbon nanotubes, confirming their potential in making small circuits and computer chips. The new method enables scientists to conduct electricity without heating up, addressing a major obstacle in producing smaller electronic components.

SourcePurdue University·DateMar 23, 1999

New Contact Lens Material Could Lessen Risk Of Eye Infection

A new sulfoxide hydrogel polymer enhances water levels in the eye while minimizing protein buildup, leading to softer lenses that are more comfortable and breathable. Clinical trials have begun for these innovative contact lenses, which could become available as early as next year.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 23, 1999
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Popular Diet Supplement May Be A Cancer Risk

Researchers found that chromium picolinate causes DNA breakage, potentially leading to genetic mutations and cancer. The study's findings highlight the need for further investigation into the long-term effects of chromium picolinate supplementation.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical Research in Toxicology·DateMar 23, 1999

Blue-Green Algae Has Dual Cholesterol Lowering Abilities

Researchers have confirmed that blue-green algae Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA) significantly lowers cholesterol levels in animals. Additionally, the algae's benefits appear to be independent of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), suggesting a potential dual mechanism of action.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 23, 1999

Waste Makes Saleable Coal Product

Researchers have developed a new method to create activated carbon products from unburned coal waste, offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative. The process separates the fly ash from the unburned carbon and activates it for high surface area production with yields over 70 percent.

SourcePenn State·DateMar 23, 1999

Nanomagnets Could Store Computer Data

Researchers at Cornell University have developed nanomagnets that can store data, with the potential to gather up to 100 times more information in the same space as present-day magnetic data disks. The devices are tiny bar magnets as small as 25 nanometers long and require new physics to make a system work.

SourceCornell University·DateMar 23, 1999
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Improved Ritalin™Offers Smaller Doses And Fewer Side Effects

Researchers have developed a new, more effective form of the medication Ritalin that produces fewer side effects and has the potential to be used in anticocaine therapy. The improved drug is made through a chiral synthesis process, which allows for smaller doses and reduced potential side effects.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 23, 1999

Research Promotion In The Weimar Republic And The Third Reich

A recent study by Frankfurt historian Notker Hammerstein sheds light on the DFG's record during the Weimar Republic and Third Reich, revealing a period of political conformity under National Socialism. The organization's founding ideals were largely abandoned in favor of Nazi ideology.

SourceDeutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft·DateMar 23, 1999

Recent USGS Work In New England And Beyond

The USGS conducts a continent-wide bird survey using over 2,500 skilled amateur birders and professional biologists. The organization also monitors water quality at abandoned mines, assesses woodcock survival, and launches the Frogwatch USA program to engage scientists and the public in amphibian conservation.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·DateMar 23, 1999
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.

Nanofabricated 'Harp' Studies Resonances

Researchers at Cornell University have created a nanoharp to study the physics of very small vibrating systems. The device consists of silicon rods suspended above a substrate and measures vibrations using laser light, detecting frequencies up to 380 MHz.

SourceCornell University·DateMar 23, 1999

Treated Clothing Detoxifies Pesticides

Scientists have developed cotton fabrics with built-in pesticide detoxifiers that can be cleaned and reactivated by washing with bleach. The treatment reduces pesticide levels in garments to harmless fragments within minutes, offering a comfortable and protective solution for agricultural workers and gardeners.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 23, 1999

Ironing Out Cotton Wrinkles Without An Iron

A new finish for cotton fabric has been developed using citric acid and maleic acid, offering superior durable press performance and good laundering durability. The cost-effective method is a formaldehyde replacement and is now under commercial development.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 23, 1999
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.