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Science News for August 14, 2002


Scientists use alfalfa plants to harvest nanoparticles of gold

Researchers have successfully used alfalfa plants as miniature factories to extract and store gold nanoparticles, offering a potential alternative to harsh chemical methods. The process uses the plant's natural physiological need to extract metals from its growth medium.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateAug 14, 2002

Scientists use alfalfa plants to harvest nanoparticles of gold

Researchers have successfully used alfalfa plants to extract gold nanoparticles from the soil, a breakthrough that eliminates the need for harsh chemicals. The study published in Nano Letters demonstrates the potential of using plants as tiny factories to produce gold nanoparticles.

SourceStanford University·JournalNano Letters·DateAug 14, 2002

Major NCI study finds increased risk of cancer in long-term Hodgkin’s survivors

A major NCI study reveals that long-term survivors of Hodgkin's disease are twice as likely to develop a solid tumor compared to the general population. The study found that certain treatments for Hodgkin's disease increase the risk of second cancers, but effective therapies have a significant survival benefit.

SourceAmerican Society of Clinical Oncology·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateAug 14, 2002

Research reveals how cells protect against stress

Scientists have discovered a chain of cellular events that occurs in plant cells when exposed to environmental stress, ultimately leading to the production of protective proteins. The research, led by Sarah M. Assmann, found that a hormone called abscisic acid regulates the processing of RNA molecules involved in stress response.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateAug 14, 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.

Mice become first animals to produce other species' sperm

Scientists at the University of Pennsylvania successfully transplanted testicular tissue from mice, goats, and pigs into mice, resulting in functional sperm production. This breakthrough has significant implications for preserving endangered species and developing new methods for livestock breeding.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature·DateAug 14, 2002

Scientists discover chemical switch that determines muscle fiber type

Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute discovered a chemical switch called PGC-1 that can transform fast-twitch fibers into slow-twitch fibers, increasing muscular endurance. This finding could lead to the development of a new drug to manipulate muscle fiber type and improve muscular function in patients with medical conditions.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalNature·DateAug 14, 2002

Ras gene causes cancer via different pathways in humans vs. mice

A recent study by Duke University researchers found that the Ras gene activates different signaling pathways in human cells, but not in mouse cells, to cause cancer. The study suggests a new protein target for anti-cancer drugs and highlights the differences between human and mouse cancers.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalGenes & Development·DateAug 14, 2002

Alcoholics' impaired reaction to stress may impede mental tasks

A recent study found that alcoholics experience a 'blunted' cortisol response after undergoing stressful tasks, which can lead to memory impairments. The researchers also discovered that the number of alcohol withdrawals is a strong predictor of memory deficits, but not problem-solving ability.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·DateAug 14, 2002

Alcohol tolerance associated with family history

Researchers found that individuals with a family history of alcoholism reported greater feelings of intoxication initially, but quickly adapted and developed acute tolerance to alcohol. This suggests that genetic factors may contribute to the development of tolerance, potentially increasing drinking habits in those with a family history.

SourceIndiana University·DateAug 14, 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.

The Lancet neurology press release

The Lancet neurology reviews research on migraine genetics, highlighting the challenges of identifying genes involved in the disorder. The article also examines the implications of private diagnostic testing without physician support, sparking debate about its role in advancing treatment options for neurological diseases.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateAug 14, 2002

Evolution of language: FOXP2 and human uniqueness in religious perspective

Scientists identify FOXP2 gene as crucial for human language development, but theologians argue that language and culture are complex matters that may require deeper explanations. The study's findings challenge the notion that language is a uniquely human trait, sparking discussion on Catholic views of evolved body vs created soul.

SourceScience and Religion Information Service·JournalNature·DateAug 14, 2002

Children aren't hurt or helped by sharing bed with parents

Researchers followed 205 California-born children and their parents from birth to age 6, finding no evidence that bedsharing leads to sleep disorders or psychosexual development problems. The study suggests responsible bedsharing may even promote intimacy and positive relationships in childhood.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateAug 14, 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.

Unraveling the genetics behind melanoma and colon cancer

Researchers at the Weizmann Institute found that Nr-CAM expression is associated with human melanoma and colon cancer development, contributing to tumorigenesis. The gene's role in cell proliferation and tumor formation was confirmed through DNA microarray analysis and animal studies.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateAug 14, 2002

Injectable gel effective in treating head and neck cancer

A new treatment approach using cisplatin/epinephrine gel has shown significant promise in treating advanced head and neck cancer. The study found that 29% of patients experienced tumor responses, with 19% achieving complete responses.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateAug 14, 2002

Deer flies a biting problem? Oddly, 'trolling' may be just the ticket

Researchers found that deer flies are drawn to bright blue color and can be effectively trapped using a 6-inch flowerpot painted with sticky spray. The traps work best when suspended three to six feet above ground and moved at slow speeds, capturing up to 30 deer flies in one minute.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalFlorida Entomologist·DateAug 14, 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.

New findings change understanding of adult stem cells

Adult stem cells have intrinsic properties and respond differently to environmental signals, suggesting a new approach to repairing damaged PNS tissue without transplanting exogenous cells. The study reveals that matching the origin of the stem cell to the specific tissue being repaired is crucial for successful application.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNeuron·DateAug 14, 2002

Bacterial alterations source of persistent COPD lung infections

Researchers have found that COPD patients' immune systems are unable to prevent recurrent bacterial infections due to constantly changing bacterial populations in their lungs. The study's findings may lead to the development of vaccines that can keep pace with these changes, providing new treatment options for patients.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 14, 2002

DNA may hold clues to Red Tide origins

Campbell and co-investigator John Gold aim to pinpoint geographic points of origin for toxic algae using hypervariable DNA markers. They hope to predict when and where red tides may occur along the Texas coast by analyzing genetic diversity within bloom populations.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateAug 14, 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.

Study examines driver behavior and role of speed in crashes

Researchers will analyze driver behavior and travel patterns to understand the impact of speed on crashes. The study aims to identify factors contributing to speeding and extreme braking, which can help inform safety enhancements for vehicles and roadways.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology Research News·DateAug 14, 2002

Of mice and men

Researchers found that human cells use RalGEFs as primary effectors of Ras-mediated tumorigenesis, unlike in rodents. This discovery highlights the need for caution in using mice to model human disease and opens new avenues for cancer therapy targeting.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateAug 14, 2002
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.

Protein transforms sedentary muscles into exercised muscles, researchers report

Scientists have successfully transformed sedentary mouse muscles into fatigue-resistant type I muscle fibers by introducing the PGC-1Q protein, which activates energy production and oxidative metabolism. This breakthrough discovery holds promise for treating muscle fatigue in patients and individuals confined to bed rest.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNature·DateAug 14, 2002

Ira Rubinoff honored by the Association for Tropical Biology

The Association for Tropical Biology honors Ira Rubinoff's vision and perseverance in defining the direction of tropical biology research. His contributions include establishing Panama's Soberania National Park, Barro Colorado Nature Monument, and promoting forest conservation.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·DateAug 14, 2002
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New approach to malaria vaccine effective in mice

Researchers have identified a toxin, glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI), that contributes to malaria's virulence and is now being explored for use in a vaccine. The anti-GPI vaccine has shown promise in mice, eliciting an antibody response and reducing immune reactions to the malaria parasite.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature·DateAug 14, 2002

Stem cells found in adult peripheral nervous system

Researchers have discovered stem cells in the adult peripheral nervous system, which can persist into adulthood and give rise to thousands of neurons, glial cells, and smooth muscle cells. This finding has significant implications for understanding the development and repair of the peripheral nervous system.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNeuron·DateAug 14, 2002

Pivotal brain processor decreased in schizophrenia

A study by UCI researchers found lower levels of DARPP-32, a key regulatory protein, in the brains of people with schizophrenia. This reduction may contribute to cognitive dysfunction and social problems associated with the disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateAug 14, 2002

Tolerance for alcohol associated with family history

A study by Sandra L. Morzorati found that individuals with a family history of alcoholism exhibit greater feelings of intoxication after consuming alcohol, but adapt quickly to its effects. This adaptation may lead to increased drinking in people with a family history of the disease.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·DateAug 14, 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.

Time, trust key to successful teen-doctor relationship

A recent study found that teenagers value honesty, nonjudgmental care, and a provider's expertise in building trust. Long-term relationships with doctors who take the time to listen and understand their concerns are essential for adolescents' medical care and well-being.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateAug 14, 2002

Cost, availability of insurance and drugs top health care worries

A recent survey by Drew Blendon reveals that healthcare costs, inadequate insurance coverage, and the cost of drugs remain major health care concerns for Americans. Meanwhile, terrorism, homeland defense, and the economy are considered more pressing issues by voters.

SourceHealth Affairs·JournalHealth Affairs·DateAug 14, 2002