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Science News Archive February 2002


Page 3 of 8

New research reveals that fibre can improve mood

A four-week study found that those on a high-fibre diet had improved moods, reduced fatigue, and lower depression scores compared to those on a low-fibre diet. Kellogg’s All-Bran and Kellogg’s Bran Flakes were identified as rich sources of natural grain fibre.

Questions have a higher pitch

Women tend to make greater tonal movements and use more intonation in questioning, enabling clearer differentiation between statements and types of questions. The findings suggest that women prioritize clarity and are less afraid of adopting a position of dependency in communication.

A current controversy: Is Europe about to freeze?

Researchers warn that slowing thermohaline circulation could have severe consequences for Europe, including a dramatic drop in temperatures. The phenomenon is sensitive to temperature increases and influxes of fresh water, which could accelerate its slowdown.

Dartmouth researchers expose weakness of common parasite

Researchers at Dartmouth have discovered a mutant strain of the T. gondi parasite that can provide protection against the normal parasite, while also being harmless to infected individuals. The mutant strain was created by inactivating a key enzyme in its biochemical pathway, rendering it unable to cause disease.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Satellite images help find safe routes to South Pole

Researchers at Ohio State University used satellite images to identify potential routes across the Ross Ice Shelf, avoiding deep crevasses. The identified safe corridors could enable more economical and convenient overland transport than air transport.

New superconducting transformer is light and compact

Researchers developed a new method to wind coils from fragile conductor, using an insulating layer folded lengthways around the tape to prevent discharges. The new superconducting transformer is compact and light, making it attractive for use in trains and large town centres.

Rensselaer faculty member honored by NSF, navy for research

Yuri Lvov, a Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute faculty member, has been honored with two prestigious awards for his outstanding research in weak turbulence theory and deep internal ocean waves. His work aims to improve weather prediction accuracy and semiconductor laser efficiency.

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.

Science backs Cod Liver Oil as cure for arthritis

Researchers at Cardiff University discover that Cod Liver Oil's Omega-3 fatty acids can slow cartilage degradation and inflammation, offering a potential cure for osteoarthritis. The study suggests that taking Cod Liver Oil in early adulthood may prevent the onset of osteoarthritis and reduce its symptoms.

Rat makes a partial recovery following a spinal cord lesion

Researchers successfully implanted nerve cells in rats with partial hemisection spinal cord damage, showing partial recovery of walking abilities. In contrast, complete transection and ventral root avulsion models showed limited or no regrowth of damaged motor neurons.

Kingston named Virginia Outstanding Scientist of 2002

Kingston's work led to a semi-synthetic process for creating Taxol, improving the efficiency of a potent anti-cancer drug. His research also contributed to saving vital tropical forests in South America by preserving traditional herbal remedies.

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.

Studies suggest new headache treatment is more effective than medication

Researchers discovered a link between inflamed tender areas above upper molar teeth and headaches. A new treatment involves chilling the area to reduce swelling, eliminating pressure on nerves. The anti-inflammatory gel was found to be more effective than existing medications in reducing headache burden and analgesic use.

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.

Land conflicts due to accumulated legislation

Land conflicts in Honduras stem from inconsistent legislation that prioritizes central government property over farmers' claims. Inconsistent laws also lead to conflicts between traditional customs and official laws, resulting in family disputes and violence.

Social factors may affect survival in lung cancer patients

A recent study found that social factors can significantly affect the survival rates of lung cancer patients, with African Americans facing higher mortality rates due to poorer physical performance and weight loss. The researchers adjusted for these factors in their analysis, finding no difference in outcomes between ethnic groups.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Viral protein may be associated with human brain tumors

Studies found that agnoprotein and T antigen are present in 45% of medulloblastoma samples, with some containing only agnoprotein. The presence of these proteins suggests a potential link between the JC virus and brain tumor development.

Tax increases can cut the number of habitual teen smokers

Teenagers living in high-tax areas were 13% less likely to smoke any cigarettes than those in low-tax areas. Regular smokers who purchased their own cigarettes responded more strongly to price increases, the study found. The study analyzed data from Monitoring the Future Surveys of 8th-, 10th- and 12-grade students.

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.

Economist says government should subsidize training of innovators

The proposed program aims to increase the number of university math, science, and engineering majors, with a focus on undergraduate education. The $25 million pilot program could grow to $200 million annually if successful, and would provide portable fellowships for graduate students to shift towards innovation in the business sector.

Compounds rejuvenate rats, may aid humans

A combination of two compounds, acetyl-l-carnitine and alpha-lipoic acid, have been shown to improve physical and mental function in older rats. The study suggests that these compounds may have therapeutic potential for humans, with the goal of improving quality of life and health.

Other highlights in the Feb. 20 issue of JNCI

African-American patients with non-small-cell lung cancer have a significantly lower one-year survival rate compared to non-African-American patients. Despite similar disease stages and health care disparities, researchers found no difference in outcomes after adjusting for factors such as performance status and socioeconomic status.

Raloxifene after tamoxifen not beneficial

Researchers found that raloxifene did not prevent growth of breast tumors previously exposed to tamoxifen, while being less effective in blocking endometrial tumor growth. The study suggests that raloxifene may not further reduce the risk for breast cancer recurrence after five years of tamoxifen therapy.

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.

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

Recent studies have shown that low-dose computed tomography can detect lung cancers at an earlier stage than traditional chest radiography. Additionally, research has found a higher incidence of acute lung injury in Australian intensive care units, with lower mortality rates compared to international studies. Furthermore, experts argue...

Characteristic shadow painting by Raphael unintentional

Research by Margriet van Eikema Hommes shows that shadows in Raphael's painting became darker over time, changing the contrast and creating a theatrical effect. The study provides insights into the original composition of Renaissance paints and their aging process.

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.

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.

Whither the GP who can do everything?

Research reveals a decline in general practitioners' and family physicians' involvement in non-office settings, leading to a reduction in comprehensive care. Alternative models such as group practices and networks can help meet the need for primary care, but reliance on core physicians working in multiple settings remains a concern.

Low-intensity ultrasound therapy and fracture healing

A meta-analysis of three studies found that low-intensity ultrasound therapy significantly reduces healing time for non-operative fractures. The treatment group showed a mean time to healing that was 6.41 times shorter than the control groups.

Scientists look to Europe as evolutionary seat

Scientists have discovered two significant fossil finds in Europe, shedding light on the early evolution of humans. The oldest relative of all living great apes was found in Germany, while a nearly complete skull of Dryopithecus was uncovered in Hungary.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

A genetic basis for diet-induced relapse of depression

A genetic study found that a polymorphism in the serotonin transporter promoter region is associated with mood response during tryptophan depletion, indicating a potential link between diet and depression relapse. The study suggests that individual genetic differences may influence the impact of dietary changes on depressive symptoms.

Agri-tech innovations promise better food security

Researchers discuss innovative examples of sustainable agriculture, such as the Ecological System of Rice Intensification (SRI), which trains farmers to adopt environmentally friendly techniques. SRI has successfully increased rice yields without relying on herbicides and pesticides, improving food security in Cambodia and Asia.

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.

Annals of Internal Medicine, tip sheet, February 19, 2002

The incidence of second primary colorectal cancer is high despite regular surveillance colonoscopy after treatment of the initial cancer. Many second cancers were diagnosed within one year after a normal colonoscopy, indicating the need for further research to determine the best schedule for surveying the colon.

Teen sex offenders need different treatments: Study

A study of 114 adolescent male offenders found that those committing only sexual offenses had better behavior, attitudes, and lower re-offending risk compared to those with concurrent crimes. The findings suggest different pathways to juvenile sexual offending, warranting tailored interventions.

Performance reviews not always accurate, professor says

A study by Rotundo and Sackett found that North American managers were not always in agreement on the most important criteria for rating employee performance. This can lead to inconsistent reviews, highlighting the need for clear communication of valued aspects of job performance.

A genetic risk factor for substance abuse

A functional polymorphism within the m-opioid receptor gene has been linked to an increased risk of substance abuse, including alcohol and other substances. The study found that individuals with this genetic variation were more likely to develop addiction and engage in risky behavior.

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 genetic findings in manic-depressive illness

A multicentric study has identified an excess of allele1 for the GABRA3 gene in patients with bipolar disorder. This finding suggests a potential link between genetic variations and the development of manic-depressive illness.

New frontiers for dinosaur science

Dinosaur expert Paul C. Sereno has made groundbreaking discoveries in Africa, including the giant predator Carcharodontosaurus and the spinosaur Suchomimus. His research is transforming our understanding of dinosaur evolution, shedding light on their diversity and abundance during the Cretaceous period.

Virginia Tech engineer designing smarter, more robust unmanned vehicle

A Virginia Tech engineer is developing advanced control systems for unmanned underwater vehicles to perform complex maneuvers, such as evasive actions and tracking El Niño boundaries. His research aims to create protected controls mechanisms for long-duration autonomous operations in the ocean.

Critical care bypass in emergency rooms

The article explores the challenges of managing emergency department overcrowding and the legal duty to provide care. It discusses the complexities of weighing patient diversion against accepting critically ill patients, raising questions about liability and hospital responsibilities.

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.