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Science News Archive September 1999


Page 2 of 5

U-M School of Public Health to direct national asthma program

The University of Michigan School of Public Health is leading a $12.5 million project to improve the quality of life for children with asthma. The initiative aims to establish local coalitions that implement programs reducing hospital stays, emergency room visits, and enhancing asthma management. Faculty from U-M's asthma research team...

Single motherhood doesn't hurt schoolwork

A Cornell University study of over 1,700 six- and seven-year-olds found that single mothers' education levels were more important than family income for their children's math, reading, and vocabulary scores. Strong links between a mother's ability level and her child's academic performance were seen in white, black, and Hispanic families.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Physicists contribute to cutting edge computing technology

The Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics has released the public beta of the Cactus Computational Toolkit 4.0, a collaborative environment for solving partial differential equations in physics and engineering. The toolkit allows individual scientists to plug their own computing applications into a modular framework, enabling ...

Humus/Mineral interaction

Researchers found that increasing humus content can increase quinoline's movement to groundwater, but mineral interactions play a key role. The study suggests that strongly bound pollutants may still be broken down by microorganisms.

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.

New technique identifies M. tuberculosis genes

Researchers have identified 15 M. tuberculosis genes expressed only when the bacteria are growing in macrophages, key disease-fighting cells. These genes play important roles in pathogen metabolism, propagation and self-protection, potentially leading to new drug targets or vaccines.

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.

Recent research suggests new strategy for treating depression

Recent studies have found that high cortisol levels might be a cause of depression, potentially leading to new antidepressant drug strategies. Cortisol-lowering drugs have shown promise in reducing depressive symptoms, especially in patients with high cortisol levels.

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

NIAMS funds the North American Spondylitis Consortium

The consortium aims to collect medical information and genetic material from 400 families nationwide with AS to identify additional genes associated with its pathogenesis. Researchers will conduct genome-wide searches and map genes linked to AS outside of the MHC.

Good seed, bad seed: Evolution divides the plant world

Scientists have found that the gene order in Arabidopsis, a model eudicot, is not preserved in rice, a model monocot. This discovery reveals an evolutionary divide between dicots and monocots, cautioning against using Arabidopsis genome for understanding cereal crops like rice and wheat.

Researchers find high levels of mercury in native ore deposits

Researchers at Michigan Technological University found that metal contaminants in Lake Superior sediments primarily come from native ore deposits, not atmospheric sources. High concentrations of mercury were detected, associated with copper and silver deposits.

Cinderella's shoe holds 500 sequencing machines

Researchers have successfully sequenced human chromosome 17 using a microdevice fabricated from glass wafers, demonstrating a bright future for convenient and low-cost sequencing machines. The device holds 500 sequencing machines on a single chip, making it a significant breakthrough in DNA sequencing technology.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Clay M. Armstrong, MD, wins 1999 Albert Lasker Basic Medical Research Award

Armstrong's groundbreaking work elucidated the physical processes underlying electrical signaling in and between cells. His research has contributed significantly to our understanding of ion channels and their role in transmitting nerve impulses, with implications for drug development and treatment of various diseases.

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.

Lower death rate in Oregon hospitals linked to better care

A study by OHSU researchers found improved quality of care to be the major factor behind declining hospital mortality rates for heart failure patients in Oregon. The study analyzed data from 1991-1995 and concluded that better treatment and care were key contributors to the lower death rate.

'Disposable electronics' from polymer study

A Cornell University research team led by Paulette Clancy is developing novel semiconducting materials using polymers, which could lead to cheaper and more portable 'throwaway electronics.' The project aims to create new materials for light-emitting diode displays and flexible laptop screens.

Revived drug prevents malaria, skirts drug resistance

Researchers found that atovaquone was 100% effective in keeping volunteers bitten by mosquitoes carrying Plasmodium falciparum from developing the disease. Pairing atovaquone with proguanil, an older malaria-fighting drug, provides protection while avoiding drug resistance.

OHSU scientists locate 'fat thermostat' in brain

Scientists at OHSU have discovered a mechanism in the brain that controls weight, named the adipostat, which acts as a fat thermostat. The discovery could lead to medications that help regulate patient weight and prevent excessive caloric intake.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Team developing new ways to handle data deluge

Scientists are working on developing new technologies to store, access, and search large volumes of data. The team aims to improve data management for next-generation science projects like the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, which will produce 40 terabytes of data.

Advanced light source reveals secrets of ribosome structure

A team of researchers has produced high-resolution images of a complete ribosome complex using the Advanced Light Source (ALS), revealing more about its structure than previous observations. The new crystallographic images provide insights into how transfer RNA interacts with the ribosome and the molecular mechanisms of protein synthesis.

Infants of depressed mothers show atypical brain activity

Research suggests that maternal depression may alter frontal brain activity associated with positive emotions in infants. The study found that infants of depressed mothers exhibited less left frontal EEG activity compared to right frontal EEG activity, indicating a potential impact on emotional processing.

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Age reduces aggression in boys

A study of 1,037 inner-city boys found that those with behavioral problems in kindergarten became better adjusted as they grew older. High levels of hyperactive behavior were not linked to increased risk of juvenile delinquency.

UCSF finding could lead to a new class of painkillers

Researchers at UCSF have identified a protein enzyme that plays a key role in pain signaling, suggesting a possible target for broad-based pain therapy. The finding applies to inflammatory pain syndromes, such as arthritis and colitis, and has potential implications for post-operative pain relief.

Inform doctors when taking herbs and dietary supplements

Millions of patients mix prescription medicines with alternative therapies without informing their doctors, raising concerns about herb-drug interactions. Studies have shown that herbs like St. John's wort and ginkgo can be effective in treating depression, anxiety, and memory problems, but may also cause side effects.

Roundworms provide clues to human kidney disease

Researchers found a gene crucial for roundworm mating strongly resembles a gene involved in human polycystic kidney disease. The study uses Caenorhabditis elegans to understand the role of genes controlling reproductive behaviors, potentially shedding light on PKD1's function and its connection to kidney disease.

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.

UCSC researchers obtain first detailed images of a complete ribosome

Researchers at UCSC have obtained detailed images of the complete structure of the ribosome, a tiny molecular machine responsible for translating genetic code and synthesizing proteins. The new images show how different parts of the ribosome interact with each other and with molecules involved in protein synthesis.

Mutation in PTEN gene can cause cancer and autoimmune disease

Researchers found that losing function of one copy of the PTEN tumor suppressor gene can lead to chronic fatal conditions, including cancer and autoimmune diseases. The study showed that this disruption allows white blood cells to accumulate unchecked and attack their own organs.

Scientists identify novel component of cell-fate pathway

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have identified casein kinase I (CKI) as a novel component of the Wnt-signaling cascade, essential for proper animal development. The discovery may lead to new approaches for influencing developmental processes and developing cancer treatments.

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.

Stem cells may be powerful gene shuttle

Researchers from HHMI at Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School discovered that stem cells can deliver therapeutic genes to diseased organs, potentially remodeling genetically defective tissues. The study suggests that adult stem cells may be manipulated to heal genetic defects in various organs and tissues.

Is drug abuse, not brutality, behind some deaths in custody?

A leading forensic toxicologist suggests that cocaine abuse may be behind some deaths in custody, rather than police brutality. The expert's neurochemical test detects a unique brain signature associated with excited delirium (ED), which can cause sudden death due to cardiac arrest.

Group interventions for troubled adolescents

Researchers found that interventions with peers grouped together often worsen adolescent problem behavior, leading to increased delinquency and substance abuse. Training adolescents to give up destructive behaviors seems ineffective when several group members have a tendency toward these behaviors.

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.

Quake damage teaches lessons about Mexico's critical buildings

A report on a June 15 earthquake in Mexico highlights the need for enforcing special seismic design standards for critical buildings like schools, hospitals, and fire stations. The study found that these buildings are often constructed with heavier materials than recommended, increasing the risk of damage during earthquakes.

Study suggests some unruptured aneurysms do not need treatment

Researchers found that treating small, asymptomatic, unruptured cerebral aneurysms may increase health risks and death. The study's complex analysis suggested that in some cases, aneurysm treatment is unnecessary, highlighting the need for personalized care.

Richard Amasino wins Alexander von Humboldt Award

Richard M. Amasino, a plant molecular biologist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, has been awarded the 1999 Alexander von Humboldt Award for his groundbreaking research on flowering time and senescence in plants. His discoveries have significant implications for agriculture, with potential to improve crop yields and resistance.

Megaflares will point the way to distant solar systems

Astronomers believe that megaflares produced by tangled magnetic fields on a star and its planet might help identify distant Sun-like stars with planetary systems. This phenomenon could provide energy for the development of life on rocky planets, making it a promising area to search for extraterrestrial life.

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.

Study indicates Indian Ocean monsoon similar to El Niño phenomenon in Pacific

Research indicates the Indian Ocean has its own El Niño-like phenomenon characterized by an east-to-west oscillation of warm waters affecting other parts of the world. The study found significant warming of the western portion of the Indian Ocean in 16 out of 48 years between 1950 and 1998, but only three were active El Niño years.

UK study shows breast-feeding increases babies' IQ

A UK study found that breast-feeding significantly boosts cognitive development in babies, with benefits seen as early as 6 months and sustained through 15 years of age. The study analyzed data from 20 published reports and found that breast milk provides essential nutrients required for rapid brain development.

Aviation fuel is best served well chilled

A simple cooling system can significantly reduce fuel vapour formation in aircraft tanks, minimizing the risk of explosion. The Polarjet system cools fuel to -1°C or below, reducing hydrocarbon vapours and oxygen levels, making planes safer without expensive modifications.

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Communications towers killing birds

A recent study highlights the dangers of communications towers for migrating birds, which mistake tower lights for the moon and collide with structures. The Cornell University meeting brought together experts to discuss solutions, including co-location rules and reduced lighting in tall buildings.