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Science News Archive July 2002 - Page 2


Page 2 of 7

Stock market swings help researchers understand extreme events in solar wind

Researchers discovered that fluctuations in solar wind magnetic energy density are more likely to occur in extreme events, similar to stock market indices. The solar wind's self-similar pattern at various time scales allows for the application of knowledge from one field to understand the other.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJul 25, 2002

Nanoscale crystallography reveals hidden structural details

Researchers used non-traditional techniques to determine nanoscale structures, revealing cesium ions arranged in short-range order zigzag chains. This verifies CsxSi32O64 as a room-temperature stable inorganic electride with potential useful electronic properties.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 25, 2002
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.

Strength increase in Asian southwest monsoon may be result of warming

Research suggests the Asian southwest monsoon is strengthening due to Northern Hemisphere warming, with potential implications for agriculture and population displacement. The study analyzed sediment cores from the Arabian Sea, finding increased wind speeds and a link to decreased Eurasian snow cover.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience·DateJul 25, 2002

New research supports the link between cooking and carcinogens

Researchers at Stockholm University found high levels of acrylamide in fried, oven-baked, and deep-fried potato products. Cooking at higher temperatures increases acrylamide formation, while boiling is considered the safest method.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJul 25, 2002

Health and human rights

The Lancet has highlighted concerns over the slow response to humanitarian emergencies in Angola, with three million people in need of medical or nutritional assistance. Humanitarian organizations are working together to address the crisis, but resource and political constraints remain significant barriers.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 25, 2002
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

ASU researcher puts recalled Firestone tires to good use

Adding crumb rubber to fresh concrete improves strength and durability, reducing thermal expansion, drying shrinkage, and brittleness. This technology can be used in sidewalks, parking lots, and concrete floors, potentially recycling millions of scrap tires annually.

SourceArizona State University·DateJul 25, 2002

Researchers identify gene involved in autoimmune disease

Scientists have identified a gene involved in autoimmune disease using molecular techniques on mouse models. The research aims to develop more specific treatments by understanding the role of histamine receptors in autoimmune disease.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalScience·DateJul 25, 2002

First ever census of jaguars completed

A new technique developed by WCS scientists allows for accurate population density estimation of jaguars in the wild. Using camera traps and unique spotting patterns, researchers can now focus conservation efforts on areas with highest cat densities.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·DateJul 25, 2002
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Researchers identify brain pathway to explain how Fenfluramine causes weight loss

A study by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center researchers identifies the melanocortin system as a key player in regulating body weight. The discovery sheds light on how appetite suppressant drugs like fenfluramine work, offering new insights into the complex interactions between serotonin and melanocortin systems.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalScience·DateJul 25, 2002

Pufferfish DNA yields clues to human biology

Comparing the pufferfish genome to the human genome revealed nearly 1,000 previously unidentified human genes, shedding light on gene regulation and function in the human body. The study highlights similarities and differences between vertebrates and finned fish, providing insights into the evolution of human biology.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalScience·DateJul 25, 2002

Prenatal zinc supplementation could impair childhood mental development

A recent study found that prenatal zinc supplementation had no significant effect on the mental development of children. However, infants whose mothers received zinc supplements during pregnancy showed poorer nutritional status, which was strongly related to their development. The researchers emphasize the serious nature of undernutrit...

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJul 25, 2002

Immune system component found common to both humans and worms

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have identified a common immune system pathway shared by humans and worms, which could lead to therapies for chronic inflammatory diseases and other conditions. The study uses the C. elegans nematode worm as a model organism to investigate innate immunity.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalScience·DateJul 25, 2002
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Omega-3 fatty acids may prevent heart disease by improving arterial elasticity

A 7-week dietary intervention found that omega-3 supplements increased systemic arterial compliance by 36% with EPA and 27% with DHA. Both groups also showed significant declines in plasma total triacylglycerol concentrations, suggesting a potential benefit for heart health.

SourceAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJul 25, 2002

Antarctic glacier may yield clues to global climate change

A team of researchers led by Hongxing Liu from Texas A&M University is analyzing remotely sensed data from the Lambert ice sheet to understand its role in global climate change. The study will help determine how glaciers respond to changes in the climate and provide clues about the potential impact on sea levels.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateJul 25, 2002

Researchers support early intervention for all children with reading difficulties

A meta-analysis of 320 studies found substantial overlap between learning disabled and non-disabled children experiencing reading difficulties. The researchers argue that using IQ discrepancy as a criterion for establishing learning disability can lead to unequal access to services.

SourceAmerican Educational Research Association·JournalAmerican Educational Research Journal·DateJul 25, 2002
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.

Ulcer-causing bacteria use stomach inflammation to their advantage

Researchers found that Helicobacter pylori infection leads to mild inflammation, triggering the production of sialyl-di-Lewis x sugar molecule on stomach cells. The bacteria then latch onto this molecule using a previously unknown adhesin protein, worsening inflammation and increasing survival chances.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalScience·DateJul 25, 2002

Academic couples at same university are happier

A new study by Cornell University researchers found that academic couples who work together are happier and more successful in balancing their work and family lives. Co-working men, especially those with dependent children, report greater family success and less negative stress from home to work.

SourceCornell University·DateJul 25, 2002
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.

Dietary whole grains may benefit in prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes

A study found that high whole-grain consumption was associated with lower rates of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Participants who consumed more whole grains had healthier lifestyle habits, including a lower waist-to-hip ratio, less saturated fat, and more fruits and vegetables.

SourceAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateJul 25, 2002

Variability in West Antarctic ice streams normal

Recent research suggests that West Antarctic ice streams are experiencing normal variability, contrary to predictions of imminent shutdown and sea-level rise. The study found that local conditions, such as geothermal heat and frictional forces, drive the slowdown or speeding up of ice streams.

SourcePenn State·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJul 24, 2002

Research to estimate pesticides' effects on children

A three-year grant awarded by EPA aims to develop a scientific way to accurately estimate pesticide exposure among children, especially farmworker sons and daughters. Researchers use novel methods like videotaping children at home to quantify real-life exposure to pesticide residues.

SourceStanford University·DateJul 24, 2002

Platelet molecule regulates blood coagulation, study finds

Researchers discover that a platelet molecule called phosphatidylserine plays a key role in activating the final step of blood coagulation. The finding could lead to new treatments for clotting disorders, such as heart attacks and strokes.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJul 24, 2002

Scientists visualize waves in space caused by black-hole mergers

Researchers have developed a computer model to visualize gravitational waves produced by black-hole mergers, providing insight into Einstein's theory of general relativity. The model predicts that the waves will be relatively weak until moments before the merger, culminating in a thunderous impact.

SourcePenn State·JournalPhysical Review D·DateJul 24, 2002
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

School program reduces risk of obesity, disease in border community

A school program called CATCH significantly increased moderate to vigorous physical activity, decreased fat in meals, and reduced sodium content. The program's effects were more pronounced than expected, with substantial increases in physical activity levels.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalHealth Education & Behavior·DateJul 24, 2002

Light from gas bubbles: Sonoluminescence measured

Researchers measured the chemical reactions and light emission from a single water bubble excited by sound waves, finding temperatures high enough to break water molecules apart. The experiment showed that only a small fraction of sound energy is converted into light, with most energy going into mechanical energy.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalNature·DateJul 24, 2002

Breakthrough in profiling of yeast genome

Researchers at McGill University have made a significant breakthrough in profiling the yeast genome, creating a comprehensive scale for genetic manipulation. This achievement could ultimately lead to the discovery of better drugs for treating human diseases, including certain forms of cancer.

SourceMcGill University·DateJul 24, 2002

Artificial antibodies created by new molecular imprinting process

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new molecular imprinting process to create artificial antibodies. The technique involves imprinting a single molecule within a highly branched polymer called a dendrimer, allowing for specific binding and rejection of target molecules. This breakthrough has potential applicatio...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature·DateJul 24, 2002
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Scientists measure energy dissipation in a single cavitating bubble

Researchers used sensitive detection techniques to study energy dissipation during bubble collapse, finding that less than 1% of energy is converted into light and most goes into chemical reactions or mechanical energy. This understanding has implications for future work on sonochemistry and the possibility of sonofusion.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature·DateJul 24, 2002

Researchers identify defect that causes rare muscular dystrophies

Defects in enzymes responsible for processing dystroglycan protein cause several rare forms of muscular dystrophy. The discovery will help doctors diagnose and provide genetic counseling to patients. It also raises questions about links between muscle physiology and neurobiology, potentially improving understanding of learning and memory.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateJul 24, 2002

CWRU scientists demystify protein at root of arthritis

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University discovered kinks in the aggrecan protein, a submolecular root of arthritis. The study shows that these kinks may be more susceptible to enzymes that degrade cartilage in osteoarthritis, providing a link between structure and function.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateJul 24, 2002

Kids need repeated messages, support on healthy eating

A study found that middle school students who participated in a nutrition program with repeated messages and support had significant increases in fruit and vegetable consumption, while those without the program saw no change. Researchers emphasize the need for intensive, multi-component interventions to reach these children.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalHealth Education & Behavior·DateJul 24, 2002
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.

Geology and GSA Today media highlights — August

New studies reveal close connections between North Atlantic and Pacific climates, with potential implications for predicting future climate changes. Glacier advances in Alaska and landslides triggered by asteroid impacts provide evidence of distant climate perturbations.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateJul 24, 2002

Men die young, even when they're old

A new study reveals that men are on average twice as likely to die prematurely as women at every age, particularly in their twenties. The disparity holds true for various causes of death, including car crashes and heart disease. If male mortality rates matched female rates, over 375,000 lives would be saved annually in the US.

SourceNew Scientist·DateJul 24, 2002

Computer predicts outcome of breast cancer

A computer system developed by Newcastle University researchers accurately predicted the spread of breast cancer and five-year survival rates in nearly 90% of patients. The system uses a combination of neural networks and fuzzy logic to analyze images of cells from tissue samples.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalAnticancer Research·DateJul 24, 2002

Researchers discover shift in organisms causing early-onset sepsis in low-birth-weight infants

A recent study found a significant change in the types of bacteria involved in early-onset sepsis in low-birth-weight infants, with an increase in E. coli cases and antibiotic-resistant strains. The shift raises concerns about the impact of increasing antibiotic use during labor on these vulnerable infants.

SourceEmory University Health Sciences Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 24, 2002

This old house may put its occupants on path to good health

Researchers found that neighborhoods with older homes in urban areas have sidewalks, denser street networks, and mix of business and residential uses, which encourages walking. Men and non-Hispanic whites were more likely than women and other racial groups to walk at least a mile 20 times a month.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJul 23, 2002
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Diabetes patients with low literacy more likely to have poorly controlled disease

A recent study by UCSF researchers reveals that lower literacy is associated with worse health outcomes for diabetes patients, even after accounting for other factors. Patients with inadequate health literacy are more likely to experience complications such as diabetic retinopathy and have poorer blood sugar control.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA·DateJul 23, 2002

Benefits of exercise lead to further activity in elderly

A new study published in American Journal of Preventive Medicine shows that exercising boosts the confidence of older adults. By promoting fitness-related variables like weight, energy and eating habits, public health interventions can help build confidence to continue exercising, leading to long-term behavioral change.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJul 23, 2002

Least-fit elderly reap greatest benefits from Tai Chi

Participants with lower physical functioning experienced rapid progress toward higher functional levels after taking Tai Chi classes. Additionally, those with lower health perceptions and depression reported more significant improvements in physical function.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateJul 23, 2002

UCSD researchers identify eye-formation strategy in mice

Researchers at UCSD identified a gene called Six6 and its co-factor Dach2, which enable normal eye size by controlling cell growth. The study provides insights into the developmental role of these proteins in other organ systems.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateJul 23, 2002
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.

Recirculated airplane cabin air does not cause more colds

A study of over 1,000 passengers flying between San Francisco and Denver found that recirculated cabin air did not cause more colds than fresh air. The researchers suggest that being on a plane packed with people may be the primary factor in transmission of colds.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA·DateJul 23, 2002

Illicit crops threaten birds in Colombia

Illicit crops, particularly opium poppies, are expanding into critical bird habitats in the Andes region of Colombia. This could lead to devastating effects on forest-dependent bird species if the expansion continues.

SourceSociety for Conservation Biology·JournalConservation Biology·DateJul 22, 2002

UCLA scientists develop prostate cancer tracking system

Researchers engineered a virus to target prostate-specific antigen, appearing as 'hot spots' in primary tumors and distant metastases. This method could deliver toxic treatments directly to prostate cancer cells, killing them while sparing surrounding healthy tissue.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Medicine·DateJul 22, 2002

Over half of children's Medicaid expenses are for injuries

A study found that over half of children's Medicaid expenses are for injuries, with an average cost of $396 per child per year. The most common injury types were blunt force and penetrating trauma, often caused by falls.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmbulatory Pediatrics·DateJul 22, 2002
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.

Ghostly asteroids clue to missing matter

Astronomers found that most comets disappear after their first pass through the solar system, but recent modelling suggests the number of dormant comets is far too low to accommodate predicted numbers. Dr Foot proposes mirror matter as a possible explanation for the missing comets.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·DateJul 22, 2002

First practical test for monitoring shark trade

Researchers have developed a new genetic shark-identification test that is quick, accurate and relatively cheap. The test has been evaluated on 33 closely-related known species and found to be nearly 100% accurate, with an average accuracy of over 99%, according to Shivji and his colleagues.

SourceSociety for Conservation Biology·JournalConservation Biology·DateJul 22, 2002

New technique shows how cells interpret genetic information

Researchers developed a new technique to analyze RNA splicing in yeast, revealing the complex process of gene expression. By studying yeast genes with DNA microarrays, they gained insights into alternative splicing and its role in human diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalScience·DateJul 22, 2002

Sea Grant research shows electric barrier may stop Asian carp

Researchers tested the effectiveness of an electric barrier in preventing Asian carp from passing through a simulated barrier near Romeoville, Illinois. The study found that only one fish out of 381 attempts successfully passed through the barrier, and smaller fish were less susceptible to the electric current.

SourceNational Sea Grant College Program·DateJul 22, 2002