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Science News Archive 2002


Page 1 of 93

Substantial improvements in cancer trials not likely caused by placebo effects

Researchers analyzed 37 randomized controlled trials and found that most showed no significant improvement in pain, appetite, weight gain, quality of life, or performance status for patients receiving a placebo. Individual patient responses to placebos were also variable, with some improvements observed in certain symptoms.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 31, 2002

Knocking the Sox off early mammalian development

Researchers discovered that Sox2 is a crucial transcription factor involved in the specification of three embryonic cell lineages. The study found that Sox2-deficient embryos exhibit fatal defects, highlighting its importance in maintaining cellular pluripotency and embryo formation.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateDec 31, 2002
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.

Combination hormone therapy associated with increase in breast density

A recent study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that combination hormone therapy was associated with a 3-5% increase in breast density, while estrogen alone had no effect. This suggests that increased breast density may be a valid marker for the effect of interventions on breast cancer risk.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 31, 2002

American Thoracic Society Journal news tips for January (first issue)

Researchers found alterations in airway structure due to cigarette smoke exposure in utero may cause symptoms and abnormal lung function in exposed infants. A potential therapy for premature babies with bronchopulmonary dysplasia has been identified as low molecular weight catalytic antioxidant.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateDec 31, 2002

Exposure to contaminated poliovirus vaccine not likely linked to rare cancer

A study found no significant association between exposure to contaminated poliovirus vaccine and the incidence of pleural mesothelioma, a rare lung cancer. Incidence rates increased among older males, but remained stable or decreased in younger age groups.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 31, 2002

Other highlights of the January 1 JNCI

A recent study found that women with negative Pap and HPV tests are at low risk for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 3 or cancer, while those with a positive HPV test remain at risk. Researchers also discussed the challenges of analyzing DNA microarray data and recommended ways to improve its interpretation.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 31, 2002

Mathematical prediction of on-off switches in cell division proven

Researchers from Virginia Tech have validated a mathematical model of cell division using experiments on frog egg extracts. They found that the control system is bi-stable and hysteretic, requiring specific levels of cyclin to regulate mitosis.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 30, 2002
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.

Predicting the movement of genes

A recent study uses sunflowers to predict the likelihood of genes from hybrid crops entering wild populations. The research found that domesticated crop genes can persist even when hybrids perform poorly, suggesting a challenge for controlling their spread.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcological Applications·DateDec 30, 2002

In mutually beneficial relationship, slowest-evolving species gains upper hand

In mutualistic relationships, the slower-evolving species tends to gain a disproportionate share of benefits. This phenomenon, dubbed the Red King effect, is particularly pronounced when one side has little room to negotiate, forcing the other side to give up more if they want to continue the relationship.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 30, 2002

New study ties moderate beer drinking to lower heart attack risk

A new study found that moderate beer drinking is associated with lower heart attack risk, as shown by decreased cholesterol levels, increased antioxidants, and reduced fibrinogen levels. The study also discovered structural changes in fibrinogen caused by beer consumption, which may serve as a new diagnostic indicator for heart attack ...

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateDec 30, 2002
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.

Teens on extreme diets likely to take other health risks

A study found that teens who engage in extreme dieting are more likely to smoke, use marijuana, and experience suicidal thoughts. Moderate dieters were less likely to exhibit these behaviors, suggesting a link between extreme dieting and underlying issues of self-esteem or peer influence.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Behavior·DateDec 28, 2002

Drug that cuts off a tumor’s blood supply shows promising results when paired with chemotherapy

Researchers have discovered that combining Avastin with chemotherapy provides superior treatment for advanced colorectal cancer, increasing median survival by 8.3 months and response rates. The study's findings suggest a more effective and less toxic option for patients with this devastating form of cancer.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateDec 28, 2002

Adult influences may predispose teens to smoke

Research suggests that adult influence is a significant predictor of teen smoking, with ease of getting cigarettes from parents and non-parents linked to increased experimentation. The study highlights the importance of reducing social availability of tobacco to minors.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Behavior·DateDec 28, 2002

New research addresses confusion about juice

A study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that children's consumption of 100 percent real juice flat-lines at age 7, while intake of fruit-flavored beverages increases. By age 13, they are drinking nearly four times more carbonated soft drinks than 100 percent juice.

SourceAmerican Dietetic Association·DateDec 27, 2002
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Anesthesia drug may better protect newborn brains during heart surgery

Researchers found that desflurane improved neurologic outcomes in piglets undergoing low-flow cardiopulmonary bypass, reducing brain injury and abnormal heart rhythms. The study suggests desflurane may protect the brain and nervous system during heart surgery, improving quality of life for survivors.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalAnesthesiology·DateDec 24, 2002

Do the ivory towers need ramps

A study by University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that disabled medical faculty often face significant challenges in their careers due to the lack of ramps and accommodations. The researchers believe that with limited changes in academic criteria and improved physical access, they can compete for promotions more successfully.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateDec 24, 2002

Healing power in a gene

Researchers have discovered that the FoxM1B gene plays a crucial role in tissue healing and regeneration. The study found that the gene is essential for cells to divide and multiply, allowing tissues to repair and regenerate. Without FoxM1B, DNA duplication fails, leading to accelerated aging and age-related diseases.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 24, 2002

World Trade Center dust analysis offers good news for New Yorkers

Researchers analyzed debris from the collapsed towers and found no high levels of pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls or other persistent organic pollutants. The study estimated that 100-1000 tons of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were present in lower Manhattan dust, but these particles were too large to be inhaled deeply.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 23, 2002
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.

Cell division required, twice before fat cells mature

Cell division is necessary for fat cells to mature, according to a new study. The researchers found that primitive fat cells need to divide at least twice before they can store fat, and that interfering with this process could prevent the formation of new fat cells.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 23, 2002

Simpler therapies may help improve outcomes for HIV patients

A study found that HIV patients with cognitive impairment who took medications three times a day had lower adherence rates than those on simpler schedules. Researchers suggest giving simpler dosing to help patients stick to their medication schedules.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateDec 23, 2002

UCLA/Caltech scientists develop new gene therapy approach

Researchers have successfully created a delivery system using a vehicle derived from HIV itself to introduce synthetic siRNAs into human cells. This approach aims to prevent HIV infection by knocking out the CCR5 receptor, which is found on T-cells and plays a role in immune function.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 23, 2002

Easier drug schedules help cognitively impaired HIV patients

A study of 137 adults with HIV found that simplifying their medication regimens can significantly improve adherence, particularly for those with memory and attention problems. The study suggests a two-way relationship between missed doses and disease progression, highlighting the need for more effective treatment strategies.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalNeurology·DateDec 23, 2002

Neuropsychiatric lupus research receives a boost

New studies aim to improve diagnosis and treatment for patients with Neuropsychiatric-SLE, a major cause of death among people with lupus. Researchers will investigate the underlying causes of NP-SLE using new tools and approaches.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases·DateDec 23, 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.

USC researchers use gene therapy to prompt mouse cells to produce human collagen

USC researchers have successfully used gene therapy to prompt mouse cells to produce human collagen, a crucial step towards treating patients with dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new treatments for this debilitating skin condition, which causes blisters and permanent scars.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 23, 2002

Sick Kids researchers identify gene for Shwachman-Diamond syndrome

Scientists have identified the gene responsible for Shwachman-Diamond syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that affects the pancreas, white blood cells, skeletal system, and causes severe infections. The discovery will aid in accurate diagnosis, clinical management, and potentially lead to new therapies.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 22, 2002

Human kidneys created in mice

Scientists have successfully transplanted human and porcine 'kidney precursor cells' into mice, resulting in functional kidneys that produce urine. The optimal time for transplantation is between 7-8 weeks (human) and 4 weeks (porcine), reducing the risk of immune rejection.

SourceAmerican Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Medicine·DateDec 22, 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.

Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory's Kaye named APS Fellow

Kaye, a principal research physicist at PPPL, was recognized for his groundbreaking investigation of strongly heated plasmas and their characteristics. His work is crucial to predicting plasma performance in magnetic fusion energy devices.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·DateDec 20, 2002
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 warn biotech advances could be misused by terrorists

Recent advances in aerosol technology, microbiology, and genetics pose a risk of misuse by terrorists, warns Johns Hopkins researcher Gigi Kwik. The 'Persephone effect' highlights how life sciences can be used for both good and evil, and the need for strict biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of biological weapons.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalBiosecurity and Bioterrorism Biodefense Strategy Practice and Science·DateDec 20, 2002

Combination treatment shows promise for schizophrenia

A new study found that combination therapy with divalproex can significantly reduce schizophrenia symptoms, even as early as the third day of treatment. The study showed that patients treated with the combination had better outcomes than those receiving antipsychotic drugs alone.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalNeuropsychopharmacology·DateDec 20, 2002

Segregated neighborhoods lead to poor health

Research finds racial neighborhood segregation and economic disparities contribute to increased rates of sickness and death among African Americans. Environmental stressors, such as pollution and limited access to healthcare, exacerbate chronic diseases like high blood pressure.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalMilbank Quarterly·DateDec 20, 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.

New method of delivering chemotherapy using ultrasound works in BYU lab

Researchers at Brigham Young University have successfully tested a new method to concentrate the impact of cancer drugs on specific tissues, sparing healthy areas. The method uses tiny water-soluble plastic particles and ultrasound to release the drug at the tumor site, significantly reducing tumor size in laboratory animals.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalCancer Research·DateDec 19, 2002

A drop of ocean water tells a story

Researchers from UCSB and OSU have identified SAR 11 bacterioplankton, comprising up to 50% of the surface microbial community, using fluorescence in situ hybridization. This discovery opens up new avenues for understanding the role of microbes in natural systems and their impact on the ocean's ecosystem.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature·DateDec 19, 2002

Study finds that children are exposed to too many violent movies

A study of over 5000 5th-8th graders found that 28% were exposed to extremely violent R-rated movies, including scenes of rape and murder. The researchers suggest better oversight of movie industry marketing practices and parental monitoring are needed to protect children.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateDec 19, 2002
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Stroke in the 21st century

Researchers explore the role of statins in preventing CNS leucocyte accumulation in multiple sclerosis, a condition that increases dementia risk. A review on mild cognitive impairment highlights the urgency to address these disorders.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateDec 19, 2002

How acrylamide might be formed in starch-rich foods

Cornell University professor Bruce Ganem proposes an alternative chemical pathway for acrylamide formation in fried or baked foods. He suggests that enzymatic decarboxylation of asparagine is the key step in this process, leading to the loss of carbon dioxide and the formation of acrylamide.

SourceCornell University·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateDec 19, 2002
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.

Seven-foot living 'dinosaur' lurks in Oregon

A recent study found that green sturgeon in Oregon's Rogue River have extremely small home ranges, making them vulnerable to habitat loss and exploitation. The fish can grow up to 19 feet long, but are only protected by regulations for those under five feet.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalJournal of Applied Ichthyology·DateDec 19, 2002
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.

Stereotypes can affect memory when identifying criminal suspects

A recent study published in Media Psychology found that stereotypes can impact memory when identifying criminal suspects, with participants more likely to misidentify African-American suspects than White suspects. The study suggests that deeply imbedded biases can tamper with memories, leading to tragic consequences.

SourcePenn State·JournalMedia Psychology·DateDec 19, 2002

Shifts in rice farming practices in China reduce greenhouse gas methane

Researchers found that mid-season drainage of rice paddies in China led to significant reductions in methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas. The study, which used NASA data and modeling, estimates that this practice saved around 5 million metric tons of methane per year.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 19, 2002
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.

Similar outcomes for limb reconstruction and amputation after trauma

A study comparing limb reconstruction and amputation after trauma found that patients undergoing both procedures experienced similar functional recoveries, with 53% returning to work within two years. Despite medical advancements, those with amputations had higher rates of rehospitalization for complications.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases·DateDec 18, 2002