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Science News Archive October 2001


Page 6 of 8

Women faculty in science and engineering

The University of Michigan has received a five-year, $3.7 million award from the National Science Foundation to improve opportunities for tenure-track women faculty in science and engineering fields. The project aims to address the slow increase in women faculty numbers over the past decade.

Heart disease in Scotland, UK: Room for improvement out of hospital

In Scotland, UK, deaths from coronary heart disease decreased between 1986 and 1995 due to reduced tobacco smoking and healthier diets. However, many people with heart attacks die before reaching hospital, with significant disparities among older adults, women, and those from disadvantaged districts.

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.

Controlled nerve growth factor aids brain cell transplant

Bioengineers at Cornell University have created a system for transplanting clusters of brain cells, together with controlled-release microcapsules of protein, to enable cell differentiation and growth. The technique has shown promise in treating neurodegenerative diseases and spinal cord injuries.

Leptin and obesity: All in the head?

Research suggests that leptin, a hormone involved in weight regulation, may be more closely tied to mental factors than previously thought. Studies have found that alterations in brain structure and function may play a key role in leptin-related obesity.

NSF announces institutional transformation awards under 'ADVANCE'

The National Science Foundation (NSF) has announced eight institutional transformation awards to enhance the participation of women in science, engineering, and academia. The awards aim to improve diversity in STEM fields by creating models that can be replicated nationwide.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Unique sperm protein could be target of new contraceptive

Researchers have discovered a novel calcium-selective ion channel gene, CatSper, that controls the flow of calcium into the tails of spermatozoa. This finding could lead to the development of a new type of contraceptive that targets this protein, potentially offering fewer side effects than current hormone-based contraceptives.

Medicare reform unlikely to save government much money

A new study analyzes three model plans and finds that competitive pricing may reduce plan uncertainty but is unlikely to raise enrollment in the M+C sector. Total government spending on Medicare could be reduced by increasing beneficiary premiums, but geographic inequities in benefits are a concern.

Why and what can flies teach us about cancer?

Researchers studying Drosophila flies have identified key molecules regulating epidermal growth factor receptor signalling, which is crucial for developmental processes and cell growth. The study's findings have implications for understanding human diseases like cancer, with potential applications in medical advances.

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.

National Biomedical Center for Advanced ESR Technology

The center will provide cutting-edge instrumentation and theoretical expertise to researchers worldwide, focusing on biochemistry and molecular biology. Researchers will utilize state-of-the-art ESR spectrometers to study dynamic molecular processes and develop new methods for measuring distances in biomolecules.

A third of baby boomers plan to work beyond retirement

Researchers at Cornell University found that about one-third of baby boomers plan to continue working after retirement, prioritizing travel, volunteering, and education. The study suggests a shift in how baby boomers view retirement, with many viewing it as a transition to a more flexible work-life balance.

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.

Speech recognition technology will search Holocaust archives

A Johns Hopkins University team is developing a speech recognition system to help historians sift through Holocaust survivor interviews in languages other than English. The system aims to improve access to the archive's vast collection of video interviews.

Invading ants disrupt ecosystem

A study found that invasive Argentine ants eliminate native ant species, affecting seed burial and plant regeneration in fynbos ecosystems. This disruption can have cascading effects on the entire community, highlighting the threat of invasive species.

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.

Generic vs. name brand medications

Researchers at the University of Michigan found that generic drugs have stabilized at about 40% of prescriptions, despite growing market share. The team suggests therapeutic interchange as a viable solution to balance cost-cutting with effective medication.

New resources to treat type 1 diabetes

The establishment of these centers brings together unique research expertise to perfect islet cell isolation and availability techniques. The centers aim to improve cellular viability, function, and shipping procedures for patients with type 1 diabetes.

EMBO 2001 golden medal goes to Matthew Freeman

The European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) has awarded Matthew Freeman the 2001 golden medal for his significant contributions to molecular biology. The prestigious award recognizes Freeman's groundbreaking work in this field.

National research team receives award for removing sulfur from gasoline

ExxonMobil scientists have developed a novel catalyst and process called SCANfiningTM, effective in reducing cracked naphtha sulfur levels up to 99%. The new process overcomes challenges of traditional methods, which are either too expensive or result in lost octane required for modern engines.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Accumulated change courts ecosystem catastrophe

Scientists have found that gradual changes in ecosystems can lead to catastrophic collapse, as even small disturbances can trigger irreversible shifts. This is evident in various ecosystems around the world, including coral reefs and forests.

Relaxation with guided imagery eases cancer distress

A study published in General Hospital Psychiatry found that guided imagery relaxation with body relaxation reduced psychological distress in cancer patients. The benefit was most pronounced in those with higher levels of distress before the intervention.

New data shows rapid and sustained weight loss with Xenical

New research presents preliminary results of a study on Xenical's effectiveness in promoting rapid and sustained weight loss. The medication has been shown to improve cardiovascular risk factors and maintain weight loss for up to two years, resulting in significant health benefits.

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.

Minimally invasive cure for abnormal heart rhythm on the horizon

Researchers have developed a new treatment option for atrial fibrillation using bipolar radiofrequency, which shows promising results in treating the condition. The procedure can be done without using the heart-lung machine and has been tested on sheep with successful outcomes, indicating it may be safe for human patients.

Crayfish research illustrates environmental health

A recent study by Texas A&M University researchers found that environmental conditions such as drought, water quality, and predator presence impact crayfish populations. The findings highlight the importance of understanding the ecological relationships between organisms and their environments to predict stream health.

Research shows earliest testing does not reveal all pregnancies

A recent study found that 10% of pregnancies in healthy women remained undetectable by early pregnancy tests, even when using sensitive methods. The researchers analyzed daily urine specimens to pinpoint the day of implantation, which occurs roughly nine days after fertilization.

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.

Attic discovery leads to new research

A new research project aims to investigate the process of adjustment to working life and retirement among a group of male and female workers over four decades. Researchers will analyze original data from the 1960s and conduct in-depth interviews with 200 retired workers to explore changes across their working lives.

Matter waves on a microchip

Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Quantum Optics create miniature chip that achieves Bose-Einstein condensation, replacing bulky machines with reduced power consumption. The new technique enables integration of multiple components on a single chip, paving the way for innovative devices and applications.

Environmentally-friendly pesticide to combat potato cyst nematodes

A team of chemists at Amsterdam University has created an environmentally-friendly pesticide that can effectively combat potato cyst nematodes. The new substance is a derivative of solano-eclepin A, which was first identified in 1992 and has a complex molecular structure containing seven rings.

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.

Researchers discover possible trigger for 'killer T cells' to attack

A new study proposes that helper T cells serve as a critical switch for killer T cell activation and tolerance. The researchers found that the presence or absence of these helper T cells determines whether killer T cells will attack or retreat from virus-infected and cancerous cells.

Discovery of a molecular switch - progress in the research on anxiety

Researchers at Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine discovered a molecular switch in CRF by replacing a single amino acid, allowing for the development of selective CRF-like agonists and antagonists. This breakthrough has potential applications in treating anxiety disorders.

Lunch-table discussion leads to more than $100 million economic impact

The University of Houston's Space Vacuum Epitaxy Center has developed 15 new technologies, published over 450 scientific papers, and received $80 million in research funding. Researchers have also spun off two companies, one producing infrared lasers and the other commercializing a new type of electric wire.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Risk factors beyond depression may be at work in panic

Researchers found four mental health factors beyond depression that predict suicidal behavior in individuals with panic disorder, including overall anxiety level and fear of losing one's mind. The study suggests that these additional factors contribute to the development of suicidal thoughts, even when depression is present.

Study links childhood obesity to maternal well-being

Researchers found that low-income mothers who experienced depression and/or obesity reported their preschool children watched an average of two hours of TV per day. Children exposed to these conditions spent less time outdoors. The study highlights the need for caregivers to examine how maternal well-being affects child activity levels.

Study suggests mechanical forces drive early heart development

Researchers suggest that mechanical forces play a crucial role in shaping the developing heart, which could help scientists better understand heart defects. By studying the bending and rotation of chicken embryos, researchers have found that cellular contraction is driven by at least two different mechanical forces.

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.

New study: Changing roles benefit both men and women

A new study by University of Wisconsin-Madison professors finds that juggling work and family roles improves health for single and married women, as well as men. The research also shows that high levels of role satisfaction are associated with low levels of depression and anxiety.

Simple diagnosis of anaemia and malaria

A new test for anaemia in young children in tropical countries has been found to improve their health and growth. The test uses a simple method involving filter paper and sample cards to determine iron deficiency, reducing the risk of malaria.

Speech melody controls alternation of speakers

Researchers discovered a melodic cue that allows speakers to pause briefly without interrupting each other, increasing speaker continuation rates by up to 91% in grammatically complete sentence fragments.

Four researchers awarded ‘Dutch Nobel Prize’

Researchers Dorret Boomsma, Hans Clevers, Bert Meijer, and Hans Oerlemans were awarded for their pioneering work in human behavioural genetics, the discovery of cancer causes, molecular architecture, and icecap dynamics. Their findings have significant implications for our understanding of intelligence, anxiety, and climate change.

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.

Stable power supply thanks to wind turbines

Modern wind turbines equipped with power electronics converters can boost voltage and stabilize mains voltage, even in the absence of wind. The technology uses reactive power compensation to adjust voltage without significant energy loss.

Early promise for treatment of pulmonary hypertension

Researchers investigated bosentan's effectiveness in treating patients with severe pulmonary hypertension. Bosentan improved cardiopulmonary haemodynamics and reduced pulmonary artery pressure in patients compared to placebo.

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.

Virginia Tech student’s discoveries can help prevent water-borne diseases

A Virginia Tech student has made significant discoveries about air bubbles in drinking water, which can interfere with treatment processes and lead to pathogen contamination. The research is being used to identify problems at two California water treatment plants and has the potential to prevent water-borne diseases.

Learning in the workplace

Research finds UK public sector workers are losing access to training opportunities due to work intensification and contracting out. This decline in training is expected to impact job motivation, particularly among low-paid workers.