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Science News Archive 2002 - Page 69


Page 69 of 93

Wood adhesive is good, but could be better

Researchers at Virginia Tech are developing a more reliable and durable wood adhesive, polymeric isocyanate, to enhance the strength and stiffness of wood composites. The new adhesive reduces undesirable swelling caused by moisture and eliminates formaldehyde emissions.

Strengthening the case for life on Mars

A recent study by Dr. Lidija Siller from Newcastle University suggests that water might be trapped beneath the surface of Mars' south polar ice cap, a key factor in the formation of life on the planet. The research involves studying photochemical reactions in ice and has potential implications for the detection of life on Mars.

Rice research yields 'designer' carbon nanotubes

Rice chemists create polyfullerenes by joining C-60 molecules in polymer chains and planes, making them more stable than organic polymers. Fluorination of these polyfullerenes enables the creation of dozens of 'designer' nanotube derivatives with various side chains, making them soluble in traditional organic solvents.

Tool pinpoints acceptable pricing of combination vaccines

A new analysis tool developed by a University of Illinois researcher can help manufacturers determine the optimal price for combination vaccines. The tool considers various factors such as vaccine costs, individual and societal benefits, and consumer willingness to pay. By balancing these concerns, it aims to prevent overpayment by gov...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalHealth Care Management Science·DateApr 8, 2002

Ultrasound senses 'feel' of breast lesions

A new ultrasound technique called Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) imaging can detect and characterize breast abnormalities that are deeper and smaller than previously thought. The method uses high-frequency sound pulses to 'feel' the tissues, revealing differences in stiffness and mechanical properties.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalUltrasound in Medicine & Biology·DateApr 8, 2002

'Bursting' polymer molecules being developed

Researchers at Virginia Tech are developing 'bursting' polymer molecules that can change their architecture in response to stimuli, offering potential solutions for drug delivery and novel wound dressings. The breakthroughs are driven by responsive groups on the ends of the polymer chain.

Forces active in self-assembly of novel molecules measured

Scientists have measured the constants describing self-assembly in the creation of a supramolecular assembly that can potentially important to the processing of many novel materials. Pseudorotaxanes are chemical compounds containing non-covalent linkages, and researchers have explored their possibilities and applications.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 7, 2002

Brain center searches for patterns

Researchers discovered the brain region responsible for pattern perception, which helps humans recognize danger but also leads to superstitions. The prefrontal cortex processes information about the environment, preparing the organism to change behavior in response to patterns.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateApr 7, 2002

Surviving hypoxia

The Reduced Oxygen-Breathing (ROB) device induces symptoms of hypoxia in a normal room at normal air pressures, reducing the risk of decompression sickness and pressure trauma. This cost-effective training tool will be used for periodic hypoxia familiarization training for naval aviators.

Glaucoma leading cause of blindness in Hispanics

A recent study found that glaucoma was the most common cause of blindness among Hispanics, accounting for 0.3% of the population, with open-angle glaucoma being the leading cause. The prevalence of visual impairment increased with age, with cataract and age-related macular degeneration also being significant causes.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalOphthalmology·DateApr 5, 2002

Fish tales

Researchers investigate the remarkable resilience of the mummichog fish to chronic pollution in the Elizabeth River. The study reveals that these fish have adapted through genetic changes, but this comes at a cost, such as increased cancer risk and reduced ability to thrive in clean environments.