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Science News Archive April 2002


Page 4 of 10

Adenovirus genes that thwart apoptosis pathways may promote viral latency

Researchers discovered two mechanisms by which adenoviruses establish persistent infections: interfering with apoptosis signaling and preventing apoptosis through the Receptor Internalization and Degradation complex. This knowledge could improve the usefulness of adenovirus vectors in gene therapy.

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.

Scientists identify DNA flanking region as trigger for genetic instability

Researchers have identified a specific DNA flanking region that triggers genetic instability in trinucleotide repeat disorders. This finding opens up new therapeutic targets for treating or preventing these diseases, which affect the nervous system and cause conditions such as muscular dystrophy and Fragile X syndrome.

Study suggests mechanism for heart defect that kills young athletes

Researchers have discovered that a single genetic mutation can disrupt at least two other genes, leading to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The study found that the mutated gene affects the expression of two contractile proteins necessary for heart contraction. This new understanding may lead to future gene therapy strategies.

UIC tests prostate cancer vaccine

Researchers at UIC are testing a new vaccine for advanced prostate cancer, targeting patients with a specific immune type. The vaccine uses a fragment of the protein PSA to stimulate the immune system and destroy tumor cells.

Angry young men prone to premature heart disease

A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that young men who express or conceal their anger are five times more likely to experience an early heart attack. The researchers analyzed data from over 1,000 medical students and found that those with the highest level of anger were more likely to develop cardiovascular disease.

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.

Cola soft drinks satisfy hunger as well as orange juice or 1% milk

A recent study published by the University of Washington's Nutritional Science Program has challenged the long-held notion that colas only quench thirst. The research found that cola soft drinks, along with orange juice and 1% milk, have similar effects on hunger, fullness, and desire to eat in the short term.

Nicotine shows anti-depressant effects in an animal model of depression

Researchers found nicotine shows promise as an antidepressant in a Wistar-Kyoto rat model of depression. The study suggests that nicotine or nicotinic agonists could be therapeutic options for treating depressive illnesses. However, the risks associated with cigarette smoking outweigh any potential benefits.

Common cholesterol drug prevents, reverses MS symptoms in mice

Researchers found that lipitor prevented both acute and relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis-like disease in mice, reversing symptoms in those with chronic relapsing form. Lipitor also reduced CNS inflammation by inducing anti-inflammatory cytokines and suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines.

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.

Clinical depression may have negative effect on periodontal treatment

A study found that patients with depression experience lower disease improvement rates (4.7%) compared to mentally healthy patients (7.4%). Depressed individuals may be more likely to continue smoking and have impaired immune systems, leading to slower wound healing and poorer treatment outcomes.

National consortium proposes 20-mile-long collider

A national consortium led by Cornell University is proposing a 20-mile-long linear collider to detect the Higgs boson and explore supersymmetry and antimatter. The collider would accelerate beams of electrons and positrons at high energies, providing fundamental details about the origin of the universe.

American Thoracic Society Journal news tips for April (second issue)

A recent study found that stress increases anxiety and depression scores in college students with mild allergic asthma, leading to enhanced airway inflammation. In contrast, intravenous sildenafil reversed vascular resistance in an animal model of neonatal pulmonary hypertension, offering new hope for treating this serious condition.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Ultrapermeable, reverse-selective membranes developed

NC State researchers create polymers that allow larger molecules to pass through, improving both permeability and selectivity. The 'reverse-selective' membranes have potential applications in natural-gas suppliers and petroleum processors.

Multi-functional battery monitor offers working time estimates

The PSU/ARL monitor uses advanced signal processing, data fusion, and automated reasoning to estimate working time, physical condition, and causes of failure. It takes into account the physical changes in batteries, such as electrode surfaces and internal processes.

USC researchers find ozone lowers sperm counts

Researchers at USC found a significant correlation between decreased sperm count and motility and increased ozone levels in the air, especially in Southern California. The study analyzed over 8,000 sperm samples from men in Los Angeles and Northern California and suggests that air pollution may be affecting male fertility.

Adult sleepwalking may be genetic disorder

A study of 74 adult patients with sleepwalking found a strong association with the HLA DQB1*05 genetic susceptibility, which also increases muscle activity during REM sleep. Researchers believe treating underlying health issues may help improve or resolve sleepwalking.

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.

Findings give insight into how colon cells transform into precancerous polyps

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have identified a key signaling pathway involved in the development of precancerous polyps. The study found that blocking this pathway can prevent polyp formation and potentially colon cancer. By understanding how this pathway works, scientists hope to develop targeted treatments.

Cooking tomatoes boosts disease-fighting power

Research at Cornell University found that cooking tomatoes enhances nutritional value by increasing lycopene content, a powerful antioxidant. Vitamin C levels decrease with heat, but antioxidants in cooked tomatoes increase, potentially reducing chronic disease risk.

Widespread amphibian deformities caused by parasite

Researchers found a strong link between amphibian deformities and parasites, particularly those carried by snails, which thrive in human-altered habitats. The study surveyed over 60% of sites in Oregon, where deformities were linked to the presence of Ribeiroia parasite.

Superficial science - surface chemistry protects metals

Researchers at Kansas State University have developed a new protective process using phosphates to bond with metal surfaces, preventing corrosion and improving safety. The technology has potential applications in industries such as healthcare, where it could be used to create safer implants.

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.

Amphibians and crippling parasites

A new study found a striking connection between malformed amphibians and the presence of Ribeiroia, a parasitic infection. The parasite was linked to limb malformations in over 12,000 amphibians across 11 species, with Pacific treefrogs exhibiting the greatest number of abnormalities.

Scientists document water molecule movement across cell walls

Researchers at the University of Illinois have successfully simulated the movement of water molecules through aquaporins, ensuring only water passes between cells. The study reveals that water molecules pass single-file and reverse orientation midstream, preventing ion conduction and maintaining cell metabolism.

Still no effective treatment for post-lyme disease symptoms

A double-blind clinical trial of 55 Lyme disease patients with severe fatigue revealed that while ceftriaxone showed promise in reducing fatigue, it was not without significant adverse effects. The study's results do not support the use of repeated courses of ceftriaxone due to these risks.

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.

New evidence for organic compounds in deep space

Scientists have found organic compounds in deep space, a discovery that supports the hypothesis of complex organic compounds causing the Unidentified Infrared Bands. The study used a special laser to measure the spectrum of polyaromatic hydrocarbons in deep space.

Protein research illustrates how drugs fight malaria, other diseases

Researchers have discovered a new standard for selectively targeting malaria-causing parasites, which could lead to breakthroughs in treating other diseases such as HIV, cancer, and Alzheimer's. By understanding how proteins like DHFR are regulated, scientists can develop more effective and non-toxic treatments.

Let them sleep!

A study of 729 teenagers aged 12-17 found they slept an average of 8.5 hours during the week and 9.5 hours on weekends, with nearly half reporting daytime sleepiness. The later wake times among older teens suggest starting school later may improve attendance and academic performance.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Stressed intestine can give rise to food allergy

Researchers found that stressed mice exhibited increased diarrhoea responses to egg albumin, while non-stressed mice also showed occasional reactions. The study suggests chronic stress may contribute to food allergies and intestinal diseases like Crohn's disease.

Development of dementia in Parkinson’s patients

Researchers found that Parkinson's patients who developed dementia had a significantly higher risk of death, regardless of hallucination or depression status. The study also revealed that incident dementia and disease severity were independently associated with an increased risk of mortality.

Short teenage boys earn less than tall teenage boys when they each grow up

A recent study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that a boy's height at age 16 is a significant determinant of his salary as an adult. The study controlled for race, gender, and socio-economic status, and found that taller teenagers earned up to 15% more than shorter counterparts in any given field.

Junior doctors need training to reduce prescribing errors

A study found that most prescribing errors were caused by slips in attention or lack of relevant rules application. Hospitals should train junior doctors in drug dosing principles and enforce good documentation practices to reduce errors.

Input from youth is crucial in promoting adolescent health

The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health study emphasizes the importance of involving adolescents in their own health promotion. Young people offer a unique perspective and valuable insights that can improve survey design, outcomes, and overall effectiveness.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

New report explains ice-age mystery

Researchers at UC Davis and UC Santa Barbara have discovered a link between rapid changes in ocean carbon chemistry during the last ice age and shifts in ocean circulation. The study sheds light on how human-induced global warming may affect ocean currents, weather patterns, and climate worldwide.

Rare rocks offer a unique glimpse of the Earth's core

Geologists analyzed rare rock samples from California and Oregon, which contain large amounts of osmium, a key element in the Earth's core. The findings suggest that these rocks came from hotspots at the core-mantle boundary, providing valuable clues to the Earth's core composition.

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.

Gene mutation influences filtering of blood by kidneys

A study using mice found that mutations in the Lmx1b gene cause a reduction in two proteins necessary for mature podocytes to function properly. This disruption leads to immature podocytes and impaired kidney filtering, increasing the risk of kidney problems associated with nail-patella syndrome.

New Science Press launches Proteins: From Sequence to Structure

Proteins: From Sequence to Structure is the first book in the Primers in Biology series, covering sequence, structure, and functional properties of proteins from a post-genomic focus. The authors, Gregory Petsko and Dagmar Ringe, are authorities in their field and have received high praise for their comprehensive primer.

New treatment option for children with malaria

A new treatment combination of amodiaquine and artesunate has shown high cure rates for uncomplicated malaria in children under 11 years old. The study found that the treatment was more effective than amodiaquine alone, with higher cure rates in Gabon compared to Kenya and Senegal.

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.

Parental smoking around time of conception linked to reduction in male births

A recent study has found that parental smoking around the time of conception is associated with a reduction in male births. The research suggests that exposure to cigarette smoke may affect sperm cells carrying the Y-chromosome, leading to lower male to female sex ratios. Smoking was found to impact sex ratios even when only the mother...

Surinamese language Trio demands honesty

The Trio language requires precision in translation to convey expectations and avoid misunderstandings. With a complex grammar system, Trio speakers must specify verb forms to indicate whether they witnessed or understood information.

Ten percent fatigue at work within one year

Researchers discovered that a lack of autonomy at work increases the risk of prolonged fatigue by 1.5-2 times. Additionally, men who are overweight or physically inactive experience faster onset of fatigue, while women who are underweight have a threefold increased risk.

Solving the COX conundrum

The balancing act between COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes plays a crucial role in protecting the heart from cardiovascular disease. The study found that PGI2 production is stimulated as a response to platelet interactions with the vessel wall, limiting the harmful effects of thromboxane.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Long-term benefits found in two drugs for Parkinson's

A study by Emory University researchers found that the atypical antipsychotics quetiapine and clozapine reduced hallucinations in patients with advanced Parkinson's disease. The medication group also showed a lower risk of nursing home placement, suggesting long-term benefits.

NIMH awards new grants in response to terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001

The NIMH RAPID grants program funds small projects to yield information helpful in designing large-scale studies on prevention and treatment of mental illnesses resulting from exposure to mass violence. Six supplemental grants have also been awarded to existing studies to gather new information specific to the 9/11 events.

Exposure to light and sleep pattern alteration

A study by the American Academy of Neurology found that bright light pulses lasting just two to three hours can delay human circadian rhythms. Additionally, disruptions in sleep timing also produce small rhythm delays, affecting the timing of the circadian clock.

Helium imaging detects emphysema changes in smallest airways of lung

Researchers use helium-3 diffusion MRI to detect emphysema changes in the smallest airways of the lung. The technique reveals enlarged air spaces that allow helium atoms to move freely, enabling the visualization of lung structure at a scale too small for traditional imaging methods.

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.

Male starlings sing a song of reproductive fitness

Research reveals that female starlings choose mates with the strongest immune systems, as these males tend to have better singing abilities. The finding supports a decade-old theory that suggests evolution has found a way to prevent male birds from cheating on their reproductive quality.