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Science News Archive August 2002


Page 7 of 8

Chronic self-doubters tend to be more materialistic, study shows

A new study found that people with enduring feelings of self-doubt scored higher on a measure of materialism. Chronic self-doubters believe that owning things proves their success. Materialism is a poor coping mechanism for uncertainty, linked to poor psychological functioning and lower life satisfaction.

City birds prefer rich neighbors

A study of 15 community parks found that bird diversity and abundance are linked to neighborhood income, not park size or vegetation. However, the correlation between trees and bird populations is weak, suggesting other factors, such as cat populations or urban planning, may be at play.

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.

Genetically modified crops may pass helpful traits to weeds, study finds

Researchers at Ohio State University have found that genetically engineered sunflowers can transfer their insect-killing gene to wild sunflower relatives, increasing seed production and fitness. The study suggests that this could be a concern for the spread of transgenes in natural environments.

New insights into insect antimicrobials point the way to novel antibiotics

Scientists at The Wistar Institute identified key segments of an insect-derived antimicrobial peptide that kill bacteria and prevent mammalian cell entry. The research team confirmed the peptide's binding site on a bacterial protein target, opening up possibilities for novel antibiotic design and universal drug delivery.

Scientists discover cause of common muscular dystrophy

Researchers have identified a missing piece of DNA as the cause of Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD), allowing nearby genes to become overactive. This discovery provides a starting point for developing therapeutic tools and offers hope for patients, who often suffer from progressive muscle loss and severe disability.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The majority of hand cuts don't need stitches

Researchers found no difference in cosmetic appearance between sutured and non-sutured hand cuts after three months. Patients treated conservatively reported less pain and shorter treatment times compared to those who received sutures.

High risk of mental health problems in adoptees from other countries

A study found that children adopted from foreign countries have a higher risk of severe mental health problems and social maladjustment, especially suicide, drug abuse, and psychiatric disorders. Adoptees are 3-5 times more likely to experience these issues compared to those born in Sweden to Swedish parents.

Applying ecosystem services

Adam Davis's work focuses on integrating economic value into land conservation for private landowners, using current regulations to drive the economic value of conservation. Companies are finding that investing in protected environments is not only good for the Earth but also a sound financial investment.

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.

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.

Medicated ecosystems: Human drugs alter key aquatic organism

Research by Colleen Flaherty reveals pharmaceuticals can stunt growth and result in more male offspring in Daphnia, while combination effects can be lethal. The study highlights the need to consider multiple chemicals in assessing ecological impacts.

Peptide suppresses multiple sclerosis-like disease

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a peptide treatment that inhibits experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) and suppresses the onset of multiple sclerosis-like symptoms. The treatment targets T cells by binding to CD80, preventing their activation and expansion in disease.

UCSD study shows increased transmission of drug-resistant HIV infection

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that the transmission rate of drug-resistant HIV had more than doubled among patients in North America. The study, which analyzed over 300 patients, revealed a significant increase in the prevalence of viral mutations associated with resistance.

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.

Hormone found to reduce appetite by a third

A new hormone called PYY3-36 has been found to reduce food intake by a third in volunteers, providing potential relief for those struggling with weight problems. The discovery could lead to natural and safe treatments for obesity, potentially identifying specific foods that trigger hunger or developing a tablet with a similar effect.

Jet contrails alter average daily temperature range

A study by Penn State researchers found that jet contrails altered the average daily temperature range in the United States during a three-day commercial air shutdown in September 2001. The diurnal temperature range increased by 1.8 degrees Celsius, with daytime temperatures being higher and nighttime temperatures lower without contrails.

ANTs make Marine fighter air scheduling a picnic

The US Marine Corps has begun using a new software system called ANT to schedule fighter air operations, reducing the time spent on planning from hours to minutes. The system balances various factors, including maintenance requirements and resource constraints, to create efficient schedules for aircraft carriers.

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.

Study adds to knowledge of what it takes to stand up, walk

Researchers from Penn State College of Medicine developed a new measurement technique to assess norepinephrine release in tissues adjacent to blood vessels. This improvement allows for more accurate data on the hormone's role in vasoconstriction and maintains adequate blood pressure when standing up.

Toxin injections prove useful for spasticity after stroke

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that botulinum toxin type A injections significantly improved muscle tone and function in patients with wrist and finger spasticity after a stroke. The treatment showed sustained effects for at least 12 weeks, with some cases lasting up to 24 weeks.

U of C researcher tracks path of flying snake

Jake Socha's research on the Chrysopelea paradisi reveals that the snake glides by undulating its body, changing amplitude and frequency while airborne. The study provides new insights into the aerodynamics of these 'flying' snakes, which can glide up to 70 feet across.

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.

In disasters, panic is rare; Altruism dominates

Research suggests that altruism, not panic, drives human behavior during disasters. In emergency situations, people prioritize helping others over self-preservation. Clarke's study highlights the importance of community expectations and trust in authorities to guide behavior during crises.

Activism may help those with AIDS cope better with illness

Research suggests that social activism in groups like ACT UP can help individuals with AIDS and HIV cope better with their medical and psychological problems. Activist group members tend to use more problem-focused coping, have greater knowledge of treatment information sources, and are more integrated into support networks.

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.

Other highlights in the August 7 issue of JNCI

Researchers found that MMP-9 expression contributes to angiogenesis in human ovarian tumors, while dense breasts compromise diagnostic mammography sensitivity. Aspirin users have a lower risk of developing pancreatic cancer, according to the study.

Aspirin may help prevent pancreatic cancer

A study of over 7 years found that women taking aspirin two to five times per week had a lower risk of pancreatic cancer compared to those not taking it. The researchers estimate that aspirin use might prevent up to 43% of pancreatic cancer cases in women who do not normally take aspirin.

NASA and Canada study smoke from flaming Canadian forests

The AEROCAN subnetwork measures aerosols globally, verifying NASA's Terra satellite data and providing a complete picture of pollution. Forest fires in western Canada generate significant aerosol effects, affecting visibility and air quality.

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.

Finding the right path

A mathematical model supports the use of drug cycling as a tool to control TB resistance, particularly in regions with increased mobility. The EU is identified as an example where this approach could be applied to address global health concerns.

Sick or sleepy -- No option in outer space

Space motion sickness affects 70% of first-time space travelers, causing nausea, vomiting, and cognitive impairment. Researchers are testing four drugs to find a safe alternative that reduces symptoms without affecting reaction time or memory.

Late blight-resistant potato to help Russian farmers

A new, late blight-resistant potato variety developed by Cornell University will be given to Russian company Dokagene Technologies. The potato can also resist golden nematodes, scab, and potato virus Y, making it a valuable resource for Russian farmers.

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.

Dartmouth researchers identify multi-tasking circadian protein

Dartmouth researchers identify a multi-tasking circadian protein called White Collar-1 that plays a critical role in regulating biological clocks. The protein is found to be both the photoreceptor and the mechanism that turns on the frequency gene, revealing a relatively simple process between light perception and gene activation.

Dietary change may prevent the most serious form of prostate cancer

A new study found that men with early-stage prostate cancer who follow a low-fat diet have half the risk of late-stage disease compared to those who consume more fat. Low-fat diets also reduced blood levels of testosterone, which fuels prostate growth and may contribute to cancer development.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

'Fowl-howl' ties discovered between birds, monkeys

A study by Duke University scientists found that excess plant-eating monkeys on small islands spur extra tree growth, boosting insect populations that attract birds. The density of birds is strongly correlated with the density of howler monkeys.

Treatable psychiatric symptoms common with degenerative brain disease

A study by Johns Hopkins scientists has found that up to 80% of patients with degenerative brain diseases such as Huntington's disease also suffer from depression, impaired thinking, and changes in personality. The researchers believe that many symptoms can be eased with treatment, improving the quality of life for these patients.

A look at development, rural trends, birds

Researchers at the University of Michigan found that low-density exurban development increased by 2000 to occupy nearly 10 times the area of urbanized land, while agricultural land use decreased in some areas. Special planning can help minimize environmental impact through designs that deliver public benefits like clean water and nativ...

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.

Industrial fishing threatens sharks, dolphins, billfish

A University of Wisconsin-Madison study warns that industrial fishing poses significant risks to sharks, dolphins, and billfishes. The large, slow-growing animals are vulnerable to declines in populations due to increased fishing pressure.

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.

Gene therapy boosts cancer chemotherapy

Researchers developed a gene therapy combining radiation therapy and cisplatin to target tumor cells, resulting in significant regression with no additional toxicity. The treatment uses a modified cold virus to insert the TNF gene into tumor cells, enhancing anti-cancer effects.

Technology designed to detect hidden weapons is focus of new company

A new company, SafeView Inc., has licensed technology from the Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to detect hidden plastic and ceramic weapons. The system uses millimeter waves to generate holographic images that allow operators to screen for suspicious materials.

Netting the NET: An anorexia nervosa gene is caught!

A study published in Molecular Psychiatry found a genetic link between the NET protein, which regulates norepinephrine levels, and an increased risk of restrictive anorexia nervosa. The discovery could lead to new treatments for this devastating illness, which has the highest death rate among psychiatric disorders.

Time-release stimulant effective for once-daily treatment of ADHD

A new time-release stimulant has been shown to produce significant behavioral improvements in children with ADHD, regardless of dosage. The medication offers a stable therapeutic environment and symptom control into the evening, allowing for improved daily functioning.

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.