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Science News Archive April 2000


Page 1 of 5

Study finds few schools using effective anti-drug programs

A survey of 81 school districts in 11 states found that few schools are using effective anti-drug programs, with the most common programs being unproven. Effective programs such as Reconnecting Youth and Life Skills Training are available but often lack funding and teacher training.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·DateApr 30, 2000

Gene tug-of-war leads to distinct species

Researchers at HHMI discovered that crossing two related mouse species results in abnormalities in gene imprinting and growth abnormalities in hybrid offspring. The study found that disruptions in growth contribute to speciation by reflecting a rapidly evolving divergence between species.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 30, 2000
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.

Purdue 'stealth compounds' attack cancer cells

Researchers have developed a method to deliver nucleotides directly into tumor cells, assembling them on their own. This approach may lead to new treatments with improved efficacy and reduced side effects for various types of cancer.

SourcePurdue University·DateApr 30, 2000

Decision on when to operate for childhood ear infections depends on which surgeon you ask: Study

A study found that surgeons in Ontario have differing opinions on when to perform surgery on children with ear infections, citing varying factors. The researchers surveyed 17 clinical and social factors, but only six were agreed upon, highlighting the need for a revised approach to addressing this common Canadian procedure.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 30, 2000

Drug fights fatigue in multiple sclerosis patients

A new drug, modafinil, has been shown to effectively treat fatigue in multiple sclerosis patients, with over 85% of participants able to identify the active ingredient. The study found that modafinil improved fatigue severity and had minimal side effects, making it a promising first-line treatment for MS patients.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateApr 30, 2000
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Microbes on Earth may be key to identifying life on other planets

Researchers studied microbes living in Yellowstone National Park's hot springs to better interpret samples from Mars for signs of life. They developed a systematic model for travertine deposition, which could aid in identifying ancient microbial life.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Sedimentary Research·DateApr 30, 2000
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.

Wet-milling process potentially could expand ethanol, feed industries

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new membrane filtration system that enhances the nutritional value of coproducts, including gluten meal and gluten feed. This could lead to increased demand for corn and make ethanol production more profitable.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateApr 30, 2000

Chemical receptor key to fetal development

Researchers at MIT have discovered a key role for the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor in fetal development of the respiratory system. The study found that abnormal activity of this receptor may lead to problems in newborns, such as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and breathing difficulties.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateApr 30, 2000

BRCA1 mutations in Polish breast-ovarian cancer families

Researchers have identified three recurrent BRCA1 mutations in Polish breast-ovarian cancer families, suggesting founder mutations. These mutations, 5382insC, C61G, and 4153delA, account for 82% of the study's findings, enabling more efficient screening and diagnosis.

SourceThe American Journal of Human Genetics·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateApr 30, 2000

Vanderbilt engineers build robotic 'bugs' that can go the distance

Researchers at Vanderbilt University have designed and constructed a small robotic 'bug' that can scuttle more than half a mile on a single battery charge. The robot, which is about three inches long and weighs two ounces, uses an unusual material called piezoelectric ceramic to achieve its motion.

SourceVanderbilt University·DateApr 30, 2000

Magnetic actuation folds micro-parts into 3-D structures

Researchers developed a novel fabrication technique that uses magnetic actuation to assemble large arrays of three-dimensional microstructures. The method involves casting individual components in place and using a magnetic field to fold them into shape.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateApr 30, 2000
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.

Mountains of variables: The effect of landscape features on atmospheric deposition

Researchers found that mountainous areas can receive dramatically different amounts of pollutants and excess nutrients, creating 'hotspots' with high ecological sensitivity. The study suggests that estimates of atmospheric deposition must take into account complex mountain landscapes, elevations, aspect, and vegetation type.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcological Applications·DateApr 30, 2000

Integrative approach to studying penguins, cockroaches and little hairy noses makes comparative biomechanics group at UC Berkeley the nation's best

The UC Berkeley team has developed a set of principles that apply to animal locomotion of all kinds, from running to flying. Their research has led to breakthroughs in robot design, ergonomics, and even computer animation, with potential applications in fields like engineering and Pixar Animation Studios.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·DateApr 30, 2000
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

UMass tornado researcher heading to great plains

Tornado researcher Andrew Pazmany heads to the Great Plains to track supercells and determine conditions that enable F4/F5 tornadoes. He will use a modified marine radar to analyze storm structures and distances.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateApr 30, 2000

Study finds elderly women can halt bone loss

A new study by Oregon State University found that postmenopausal women who participate in a long-term fitness regimen can prevent significant bone loss in the hip. The exercise program, which includes weighted vests and jumping exercises, showed a significant reduction in bone density loss compared to a control group.

SourceOregon State University·DateApr 30, 2000

Narcolepsy drug helps control fatigue in patients with MS

Researchers found that a 200 milligram-per-day dose of the narcolepsy drug modafinil successfully controlled fatigue in patients with MS, a disease that attacks the nervous system. The study involved 72 patients with severe fatigue and MS, who reported significantly less fatigue when taking the 200 mg dose compared to the placebo.

SourceOhio State University·DateApr 30, 2000

Pouch's newfound role tied to potential new treatment for malaria

Researchers at University of Illinois find organelle with acidocalcisome properties, crucial for malaria parasite's existence, and propose using pyrophosphate analogs to target it. This discovery may lead to new treatment options against rapidly resistant malaria.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalBiochemical Journal·DateApr 30, 2000

Promising gene therapy could rejuvenate aging brain networks

Researchers found a 28% decline in brain network density with normal aging in monkeys, which was reversed by transplanting genetically programmed nerve growth factor-producing cells. This approach may be useful for treating Alzheimer's disease, with clinical trials underway.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateApr 29, 2000
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Stepwise PTSD treatment helps traumatized police officers

A step-by-step treatment approach called brief eclectic psychotherapy (BEP) significantly reduced PTSD symptoms in Dutch police officers. BEP incorporated various techniques, including imaginary reliving and farewell rituals, which helped officers regain control of their lives.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalJournal of Traumatic Stress·DateApr 29, 2000

Titles/descriptions of selected newsworthy abstracts to be presented during American Urological Association annual meeting

Researchers present promising treatments for renal cell carcinoma using 5-aminolevulinic acid fluorescence detection, as well as a vaginal mucosal vaccine for recurrent urinary tract infections. Additionally, studies investigate the long-term health-related quality of life impacts of different prostate cancer therapies.

SourceAmerican Urological Association·DateApr 28, 2000
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.

Hostility, anger linked to chemical that may cause heart disease

Researchers at Ohio State University found that people with high hostility and anger levels showed higher homocysteine concentrations, associated with coronary heart disease. The study also revealed that men are more likely to have higher homocysteine levels due to increased hostility and inhibition of anger.

SourceOhio State University·JournalLife Sciences·DateApr 27, 2000
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.

CWRU researchers develop prototype of miniature fuel cell

Case Western Reserve University researchers have developed a prototype of a miniature fuel cell with a volume of five cubic millimeters. The new cell uses hydrogen as a fuel and is produced using high-tech micro-fabrication techniques, enabling low-cost production.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateApr 27, 2000

Cloning reverses aging in cow cells,Scienceauthors say

Researchers found that cow clones exhibit youthful telomeres, indicating a potential for increased lifespan, whereas normal cells age prematurely. This breakthrough erases doubts about cloning's utility by showing it doesn't rob cells of their normal lifespan.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 27, 2000

Hypnosis reduces surgical pain and time, improves safety

A large randomized clinical trial shows that self-hypnotic relaxation techniques can decrease pain medication use, reduce operating room time, and improve vital signs during surgery. The study's findings suggest that hypnosis can be a safe and effective method for reducing anxiety and pain in patients undergoing invasive procedures.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 27, 2000
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.

UF researchers develop tiny tool kit to study genes and unhealthy cell

University of Florida researchers have developed a molecule that can rearrange genes or monitor their impacts, enabling the study of genetic disorders. The synthetic DNA beacon has also been used to detect toxins in single cells, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and treatment.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateApr 27, 2000

Genomic differentiation of Neandertals and humans

Scholz et al. study reveals significant genomic differences between Neandertal and human fossils, suggesting separate evolutionary histories. The researchers used a novel method to assess cross-hybridization of fossil DNA, allowing them to distinguish two well-defined Neandertal fossils from modern humans.

SourceThe American Journal of Human Genetics·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateApr 27, 2000

New research shows that even for infants, toddlers better-quality care boosts thinking, language skills

A new study by University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill researchers found that high-quality childcare improves intellectual and language skills in infants and toddlers, even in those from low-income families. The study followed 89 black children in 27 U.S. care centers between ages 6 months and four years.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalChild Development·DateApr 26, 2000

Getting to the core of reovirus

Researchers at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute solved the structure of the reovirus core, a double-stranded RNA virus that bears similarity to pathogens such as rotavirus. The study reveals how the core synthesizes, modifies, and exports viral messenger RNA, ultimately leading to viral replication and takeover of host cells.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateApr 26, 2000
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.

UF study shows pumping iron improves strength, independence in frail elderly

Researchers found that weight resistance exercises improved strength and independence among frail elderly participants, enabling them to perform daily activities more independently. The training also led to reduced hospitalizations and deaths, with shorter average hospital stays for those who exercised.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalArchives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation·DateApr 26, 2000

ZymoGenetics discovers potential new therapy for autoimmune diseases

Researchers at ZymoGenetics developed a novel immunosuppressive agent that inhibits disease symptoms in mouse models of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The treatment works by capturing a cytokine that stimulates B cells to make antibodies, reducing their destructive impact on the body.

SourceNoonan/Russo Communications·JournalNature·DateApr 26, 2000

Earthquakes likely near Istanbul, Science study suggests

A new study suggests that Istanbul is likely to suffer a major earthquake within the next 30 years. The research estimates a 62% probability of strong shaking near the city, comparable to recent disasters in Izmit and Düzce.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateApr 26, 2000

Radar provides new means to detect, disable buried land mines

Researchers at Ohio State University developed new radar antenna designs to detect and disable buried land mines. The dishes and rod-shaped antennas can identify mines like fingerprints identify people, while being mounted on a cart or hand-held.

SourceOhio State University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing·DateApr 26, 2000
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Study: Thoughts of fathers often trouble Vietnamese Amerasians

A new study at Ohio State University suggests that Vietnamese Amerasians' thoughts and feelings about their American biological fathers play a powerful role in how well they adjust to life in the United States. The study found that those who reported frequent thoughts of their biological father experienced higher levels of psychologica...

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Community Psychology·DateApr 26, 2000

Advanced cell technology reports reversal

Researchers at Advanced Cell Technology successfully reversed the aging process in cells, potentially leading to treatments for age-related diseases. The breakthrough involves using cloning technology to reset the cellular clock, allowing cells to divide indefinitely.

SourceNoonan/Russo Communications·JournalScience·DateApr 26, 2000
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.

Cat allergy sufferers find relief in asthma drug

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that zafirlukast effectively reduces lung and nasal allergic symptoms in cat allergy sufferers. The study tested 18 individuals with cat allergies, showing significant relief from wheezing and shortness of breath.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateApr 26, 2000

At the waters edge -- Managing riparian forests

Riparian forest management prioritizes both water and forest health to protect essential links between land and water. The book provides site-specific guidelines for addressing fragmented ecosystems and diverse interest groups, ensuring the health of eastern riparian landscapes.

SourceNorth Central Research Station·DateApr 26, 2000

Alexandra Witze and Richard Hill win AGU journalism awards

Alexandra Witze and Richard Hill win AGU journalism awards for their investigative stories on the Kerguelen Plateau and earthquake forecasting in Oregon. The awards recognize excellence in science writing and honor the scientists who inspired their work.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·DateApr 26, 2000
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.

First demonstration of the ultimate computer security

Researchers successfully sent encrypted messages using quantum entanglement, a phenomenon that allows particles to be linked across distances. The demonstration marks a significant step towards creating secret codes that are virtually unbreakable and could eventually replace current data encryption methods.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 26, 2000

Scientists localize susceptibility gene for schizophrenia

Researchers have localized a major susceptibility gene for schizophrenia on chromosome 1, according to a study published in Science. The study involved assessing 300 individuals from 22 Canadian families with a high incidence of schizophrenia over a 12-year period.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalScience·DateApr 26, 2000

New understanding of migraines may lead to more effective treatments

A study published in Annals of Neurology reveals that people with migraines experience extreme skin sensitivity, which may explain why current medications are ineffective. The researchers suggest treating migraines as soon as the pain starts and developing new treatments targeting spinal cord neurons.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateApr 26, 2000

Private and public insurance deny few services

Two studies found that large managed behavioral health organizations deny fewer treatment services than previously thought, while also reducing costs. The private sector outperformed VA hospitals on most quality measures, but the VA treats a more troubled population and has improved over time.

SourceAmerican Psychiatric Association·JournalPsychiatric Services·DateApr 26, 2000
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.

Mighty things from small beginnings

A study found that moderate alcohol consumption can inhibit internal platelet aggregation, reducing the risk of heart attacks and coronary artery disease. However, the study's lead author emphasized that individual drinking habits should not be directly linked to the findings.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateApr 25, 2000

'Obesity gene' causes cancer of fat tissue, Schepens scientists find

Researchers at Schepens Eye Research Institute have found that the HMG I-C gene causes tumors called lipomas in fat tissue, which can become malignant. The study suggests targeting this molecule could be useful for treating obesity and lipoma-related cancers.

SourceSchepens Eye Research Institute·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateApr 25, 2000