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Science News Archive June 2002


Page 2 of 8

Chemistry of tanning

Self-tanners contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which interacts with skin proteins to create a brown glow. Newer sunscreens offer greater protection against both UVA and UVB radiation, including those developed by Craig Bonda, who found that adding DEHN to avobenzone extends its effectiveness.

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.

Cell phones don't cause cancer, rat study finds

A long-term industry-funded rat study has found no statistically significant increases in any tumor type, including brain cancer, after exposure to radio frequency radiation at common cell phone signals. The study builds on earlier research and suggests the greatest hazard with cell-phones is driving a car while talking.

Decision making at the cellular level

Researchers discovered a molecular switch that guides cell communication before a message reaches the nucleus, adding complexity to understanding cellular signals. This switch determines which signal - calcium or cAMP - will be used, leading to different responses in target proteins and potential therapies for serious disorders.

Tiny device can detect hidden nuclear weapons, materials

The US Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory has developed a small, portable neutron detector that can detect hidden nuclear weapons and materials. The device uses a wafer of gallium arsenide coated with boron or lithium to detect neutrons, producing a cascade of charged particles that is easy to detect.

Don't get carried away this summer: Beware of Great Lakes currents

Great Lakes rip currents can be deadly, but knowing how to identify them and escape is crucial. Longshore currents flow along the shoreline, while rip currents flow perpendicular to it; always swim perpendicular to the current. Cold water multiplies danger, so take necessary precautions when swimming in cold water.

'Missing link' molecule may offer clues to sulfur in air, space

Researchers at Ohio State University have synthesized hydrogen thioperoxide (HSOH), a sulfur-containing molecule considered a 'missing link' in its chemical family. The molecule's unique spectral pattern was recorded using a new laboratory instrument, FASSST, allowing scientists to study it for the first time.

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.

Diet rich in foods with Vitamin E may reduce Alzheimer’s disease risk

A population-based study suggests that a diet high in foods containing vitamin E may help protect against Alzheimer's disease, with the most significant protective effect found among those with the lowest dietary vitamin E intake. The study also found no association between vitamin E supplements and reduced risk of AD.

Purdue marshals new approach to protect software

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new approach to protect software by placing hundreds of tiny 'guards' throughout the code, making it harder for hackers to use the program without permission. The system has shown promising test results and is being licensed to a startup company, Arxan Technologies Inc.

Survey reveals needs of glaucoma patients across Europe

Nearly a third of surveyed glaucoma patients reported difficulties with taking multiple medications, citing missed dosing and inadequate waiting periods. Physicians advocate for more patient education and convenient treatments to improve compliance and vision outcomes.

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Unusual ceramics could expand possibilities for superconductors

Researchers at Ohio State University have found that certain ceramic materials, called cuprates, can switch between two types of superconductivity under specific circumstances. This discovery could settle a long-standing controversy among scientists and potentially lead to the development of buckyball-like superconductivity in ceramics.

Examining the healing mystery of Aloe

Researchers at Texas A&M University are investigating the healing properties of Aloe vera, particularly its polysaccharide, which binds growth factors in wounds and speeds up the healing process. The study aims to improve wound healing for elderly patients with bedsores, diabetic ulcers, and vascular ulcers.

Trees may contribute to ozone problem

Researchers studying isoprene emissions from oak trees in Houston have found that these reactions can lead to increased ozone production and ground-level air pollution. The study aims to understand the critical steps in this process to mitigate environmental damage.

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.

NOAA-17 (M) environmental satellite successfully launched

The NOAA-17 satellite has been successfully launched into orbit, providing improved imaging and sounding capabilities for weather forecasting and climate monitoring. The spacecraft will collect meteorological data and transmit it to users worldwide.

Abnormal chemical bonds cause bleeding disorder

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have found that a defective form of vWF causes chemical bonds to persist longer than they should, leading to a bleeding disorder. The defect in the vWF protein changes the kinetics of the chemical bonds between the protein and platelets, resulting in the disease.

Columbus-area high school chemistry teacher wins regional award

Allen, a Thomas Worthington High School chemistry teacher, has won the American Chemical Society's Regional Award in High School Chemistry Teaching. Her student-centered approach and extracurricular activities have inspired over 70% of her students to continue studying physics.

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.

Investigating the techniques of Old Masters

A collaborative research programme is examining the works of Dutch painters from the 15th to 20th century, focusing on artist techniques and studio practices. The projects aim to understand paint degradation and restoration procedures, providing valuable insights into the lives and methods of Old Masters.

Scientists get no-strings awards for biodiversity leadership

Six scientists are recognized for their groundbreaking work on biodiversity conservation in China, Ecuador, Madagascar, Peru, and the US. The winners' efforts focus on tracking animal evolution, establishing national parks, studying lemur populations, and promoting indigenous cooperation.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Two new monkey species discovered

Scientists have discovered two new monkey species, Callicebus bernhardi and Callicebus stephennashi, which are named after Prince Bernhard and Stephen Nash. These discoveries highlight the vast biodiversity of the Amazon rain forest, with over 95 species of primates found in Brazil alone.

NASA's Earth Observing technology satellite proves a success

The EO-1 satellite has produced over four times the expected volume of imagery, demonstrating the effectiveness of its Hyperion and Advanced Land Imager (ALI) instruments in monitoring Earth's surfaces. These instruments have already proven invaluable in applications such as forestry and agricultural crop assessment.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Ames Lab seeking materials research proposals

The Materials Processing and Characterization (MPC) program at Ames Laboratory is offering research proposals for scientists in Condensed Matter Physics, Materials Science, and Physical Chemistry. Proposed projects can focus on developing fundamental materials processing knowledge, materials process models, or synthesizing novel materi...

Protein simulation can be done three times as fast

Researchers have discovered that protein simulations can be completed in 7 femtoseconds, three times faster than previous methods. This breakthrough enables the efficient calculation of biologically interesting processes such as protein folding.

Researcher turns brown algae phylogeny upside down

Brown algae's DNA composition was examined to reorder the division Phaeophyta, resulting in a new classification of 20 orders. A new species, Sphacelaria tsengii, was also discovered with unique propagules used for asexual reproduction.

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.

Researchers identify protein linked to tumor invasion

Cancer cells invading blood vessels and lymph vessels allows them to grow anew in other parts of the body. NFAT protein is found to be contributing to aggressive behavior of cancer cells and associated with alpha 6 beta 4 integrin, a hallmark of metastatic tumors.

Two drugs are better than one to prevent return of atrial fibrillation

Researchers found that combining irbesartan with amiodarone significantly reduced the likelihood of recurring atrial fibrillation. The study involved 154 patients and showed a nearly 85% probability of maintaining a stable heartbeat for those treated with irbesartan, compared to 63% for those without.

NHGRI launches genome.gov

The new site organizes institute information into seven major categories, including Research, Health, and Careers. NHGRI's commitment to ELSI and educational resources make it a valuable resource for the public and professionals.

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.

Aqua mission status

Aqua has successfully transmitted engineering images from five of its six instruments, providing a glimpse into the spacecraft's performance and paving the way for operational data in early September. The high-quality data will help improve weather forecasts and advance our understanding of Earth's climate system, particularly the role...

Is there a neurologist on this flight?

Research by Mayo Clinic found neurological symptoms account for 31% of in-flight medical complaints, with dizziness/vertigo and seizures being the most common reasons for diversion. The study recommends airlines carry anti-epileptic drugs to improve in-flight care

INEEL, California groups unveil unique natural gas liquefaction facility

A pioneering liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility has been unveiled in California, featuring a patented technology that dramatically reduces LNG plant size and cost. The new facility can be easily transported and placed close to clean-fuel customers, providing emergency services and faster gas service recovery.

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Insight into how the body tells time

Researchers have identified 22 genes essential to the operations of the body's internal clock, which synchronize behavior and physiology with a near 24-hour cycle. The study found that these genes influence the expression of other genes throughout the body, controlling behaviors like sleep and wakefulness.

Fatal Fridays

A study by van Walraven and Bell found that patients released on Fridays are more likely to die or be readmitted within 30 days. The authors suggest that delays in social services or incomplete discharge information may contribute to this increased risk.

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.

Cervical tissue changes may explain false negative pap smears

Researchers found that abnormal E-cadherin presence in cervical lesions can prevent abnormal cells from being collected during testing. This could explain why four in 10 Pap smear results come back negative despite biopsy findings showing abnormalities.

A strong primary care system is good for a nation's health

A strong primary care system is crucial for a nation's health, with countries boasting robust systems showing the most favorable health indicators at young ages. Strong primary care is particularly important for children, as it significantly impacts postneonatal mortality rates and low birthweight.

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.

Wives' employment increases marital stability

Research suggests that wives' full-time employment increases marital stability, contrary to common assumptions. The study found no negative impact on marital happiness but a decrease in risk of subsequent marital disruption.

New insights into open string theory

Researchers have made breakthroughs in open string theory, revealing connections between five distinct versions and investigating the properties of four-dimensional D-branes. Mathematical research has demonstrated that strings can only move along specific lines or surfaces in group spaces, paving the way for further study.

Estrogen combined with calcium and vitamin D may prevent tooth loss

A new study found that estrogen combined with calcium and vitamin D supplements improved jaw mass and density in postmenopausal women, reducing the risk of tooth loss. The study also showed that estrogen had a significant impact on bone mineral density in other parts of the skeleton.

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.

Mad hatters, seafood jubilees, & Pfiesteria Files

Researchers have discovered high levels of mercury contamination in the Still River and Housatonic River in Danbury, Connecticut, threatening human health through seafood consumption. A 'jubilee' phenomenon has also been recorded in Mobile Bay, Alabama, where abundant seafood is harvested during specific conditions.

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.