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Science News Archive September 2000 - Page 5


Page 5 of 6

Anticipating devices of the future: study predicts unique properties of silicon nanowires just a few atoms in diameter

Researchers have simulated silicon nanowires with promising results, predicting changes in electronic states, Schottky barriers, and doping methods that could improve device performance and consistency. The simulations suggest new ways to overcome current technological challenges, including the use of nanoscale clusters as dopants.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 11, 2000

Readers become part of the action through high-tech mixture of traditional storytelling and virtual reality in University of Washington's 'Magic Book'

The Magic Book project enables readers to move from a real-world reading experience to an immersive virtual environment, interacting with characters and objects. This technology has applications in storybooks, technical manuals, and textbooks, offering a seamless transition between physical and virtual environments.

Chronic lead contamination in San Francisco Bay shows long-term persistence of lead from past use of leaded gasoline

A study published in PNAS reveals that lead contamination in San Francisco Bay will continue to affect the environment for decades due to the persistence of contaminated soils and sediments. Researchers found that lead from past gasoline emissions still accounts for most of the lead in water samples, with limited mobility out of the bay.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 10, 2000

Potent potential antibiotic found

Researchers at the University of Michigan have discovered a powerful new antibiotic candidate, PD 404182, which is 10,000 times more effective than other known inhibitors of a key enzyme in Gram-negative bacteria. The compound targets KDO 8-P synthase, essential for bacterial cell surface formation, and shows promise in weakening bacte...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 10, 2000

Researchers design test for visioning ability

A team of Penn State researchers has developed a scale to measure an individual's visioning ability, which is the capacity to summon a vivid mental image of their organization's future. The scale was validated through five survey groups and showed significant correlation with positive outlook and inspirational motivation.

SourcePenn State·JournalPsychological Reports·DateSep 10, 2000

My heart couldn't take it

A study surveyed over 300 women aged 70+ about fitness activities, finding they generally recognize health benefits but experience strong, anxiety-driven fears of risks. The researcher recommends specialty programs addressing specific needs, improving perceptions of exercise as a viable disease risk reduction strategy.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Gerontology·DateSep 8, 2000

On track

A researcher has devised a way to make tracking more accurate by determining the amount of bending electromagnetic signals incur due to air moisture and temperature. This technology has applications in high-precision tracking radars.

Moderate aggression may lead to stronger immune systems

A new study by Penn State and University of Nebraska researchers found that men who are moderately aggressive have stronger immune systems. The study analyzed data from 4,415 men aged 30-48 years and found that those with higher levels of aggression had higher concentrations of specific white blood cells, which could help them better f...

SourcePenn State·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateSep 7, 2000

El Niño cycles linked to cholera outbreaks

A new mathematical model links El Niño cycles to cholera outbreaks, with a consistent 3.7-year frequency in both ENSO events and cholera cases. The study suggests an 11-month time lag between ENSO events and peak cholera incidence, likely due to increased sea-surface temperatures and bacteria-bearing zooplankton.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateSep 6, 2000

Study published in NEJM reports that testosterone patch improves sexual function and psychological well-being in surgically postmenopausal women

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that a testosterone patch improved sexual function and psychological well-being in surgically postmenopausal women. The study showed that treatment with higher doses of testosterone substantially improved outcomes, while lower doses had less effect.

SourceCedars-Sinai Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 6, 2000

Crowded homes stressful for every ethnic group

A new Cornell University study reveals that residential crowding is harmful to people of all cultures, contradicting widely held beliefs. The research found no evidence that Asian Americans or Latin Americans can better withstand the adverse psychological consequences of living in crowded homes.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateSep 5, 2000