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Science News Archive July 2002


Page 3 of 7

ESA benefits grizzly bears

Researchers found that whitebark pines, large ranges, and low human density are key factors in the survival of grizzly bears. The ESA has helped protect these areas, leading to increased bear populations in places like Yellowstone.

Weather in outer space?

Researchers Katharina Lodders and her team found evidence of complex chemistry in brown dwarf atmospheres, including the formation of liquid iron clouds. The study revealed that as brown dwarfs cool, certain compounds reappear in their atmospheres.

Ocean aquaculture: Technology, business practices, policies & caviar

A team of researchers, government agencies, and private companies test a sustainable, environmentally friendly open ocean aquaculture industry in the Gulf of Mexico. The project utilizes innovative technologies, such as a single-point mooring system and automated innovations like a remote camera and satellite tracking system.

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.

Dust in 'Earth's attic' could hold evidence of planet's earliest life

Researchers believe that lunar debris may hold fossils from Earth's early microbial life, with potential insights into the evolution of life on our planet. By studying this ancient material, scientists can gain a better understanding of the moon's role as a window into Earth's history.

Researchers shed light on early brain growth and autism

Autistic children exhibit significantly increased cerebral volumes compared to typically developing children, suggesting abnormal brain development processes occur very early. Brain volume levels out to normal size by adolescence and adulthood.

New horizons of nerve repair

Biomedical engineer Shelly Sakiyama-Elbert has designed a novel nerve repair system that uses a gel-filled tube to deliver growth factor proteins stimulating nerve regeneration. The system promotes peripheral nerve regeneration in preliminary rat studies and shows promise for spinal cord repair.

Muddy Mayan mystery made clearer by researchers working in the bajos

A team of scholars discovered that early Maya centers were abandoned due to a drastic change in local environments, transforming swamp-like bajos into seasonal swamps. The study found evidence of human-induced environmental change and climatic shift, leading the Maya to adapt and thrive in the altered environment.

What savings?

A review of medical savings accounts (MSAs) suggests they are unlikely to reduce healthcare spending while maintaining access to services for all Canadians. MSAs were assessed using data from Manitoba residents, and the results showed an increase in government spending on healthcare if the threshold was used as MSA entitlement.

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.

Research shows climate change could push bats northward

Researchers used bat hibernation physiology to predict climate change effects, finding that warmer winters will allow little brown bats to expand their northern ranges. The study's findings highlight the importance of basic physiological processes in understanding ecosystem changes.

Study offers new insights into overcoming disparities in health

Research by James P. Smith and Dana P. Goldman found that education level is a significant factor in adherence to treatment regimens, particularly for complex diseases like HIV and diabetes. The study suggests that education can help improve health outcomes by promoting better adherence to treatment plans.

Plastic surgery to the'nines'

A new system is being developed to aid plastic surgeons in reconstructive surgery by analyzing faces using wavelet analysis, recommending procedures and assessing outcomes. This technology has potential applications outside of plastic surgery, including facial recognition and security, as well as quantifying beauty.

Sprawl may threaten wildlife in reserves

A study by Andrew Hansen and Jay Rotella found that development near nature reserves can harm bird populations, as many species rely on productive habitats outside the reserve. The researchers suggest that conserving population source areas outside reserves is necessary to protect biodiversity in nature reserves.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Infrared antenna for nano-size mapping of crystal vibrations

Researchers create near-field infrared microscope to visualize crystal vibrations in the nanometre range. The technique uses infrared light to enhance signal intensity at the tip of a scanning probe needle, revealing phonon resonance in silicon carbide crystals 200-fold brighter than gold.

New research site established in Australia to help predict climate change

The Darwin Site, established in 2002, is the fifth ARM site and first with an international partner. It features state-of-the-art instruments to measure cloud properties and atmospheric conditions, contributing to more accurate climate models. The research aims to improve predictions of global warming and climate change.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Mysterious iron factory in the early universe

The quasar APM 08279+5255 has a three times larger iron fraction than our solar system, contrary to expectations. This suggests an unknown efficient way of producing iron or the universe may be older than expected.

Science to publish UAF glaciologist findings

Researchers have calculated that Alaska glaciers contribute significantly to global sea-level rise, with most glaciers losing mass over the past four decades. The study found that Alaska's glaciers raise the level of Earth's oceans by more than one-tenth of a millimeter each year.

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.

Gene may bias amygdala response to frightful faces

A study found that subjects with one or two copies of a short gene variant experienced greater activation of the amygdala when shown pictures of scary faces. This variation in the serotonin transporter gene may influence an individual's temperament and anxiety traits.

Japanese shore crabs invade Penobscot Bay, Maine

Cornell University marine biologists have found Japanese shore crabs in Penobscot Bay, a species that poses a direct threat to soft-shell clams, mussels, and lobsters. The discovery means the bay has become the most-northern point along the Atlantic seaboard where these invasive crabs have been spotted.

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.

New metabolic 'switches' discovered

Researchers identified a novel class of G proteins in yeast that could play a role in sensing unique signals important for health and disease. The discovery offers potential for developing new drugs targeting G protein-coupled receptors, which are involved in various diseases.

Enzyme could aid cancer fight

Researchers have found that a gene repair mechanism called MBD4 enzyme can reduce gene mutations in mice, which are up to three times more common without the enzyme. This discovery may aid in understanding how cancer develops and finding new treatments.

Adolescents with inattention problems more likely to smoke

A new study found that adolescents with ADHD symptoms are more likely to smoke, highlighting the potential for targeting tobacco control efforts towards high-risk youth. The researchers also suggest that nicotine may help manage ADHD symptoms.

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.

Mouse model mimics natural development of epilepsy

Researchers created a new mouse model that mimics the natural development of epilepsy, revealing the crucial role of astrocytes in seizure disorders. The study, led by David H. Gutmann and Kelvin Yamada, found that mice lacking TSC1 in astrocytes developed abnormal neuronal organization and seizures.

Researchers develop mouse model of Rett syndrome

Researchers created a mouse model of Rett syndrome to study the gene MECP2 and its role in fine-tuning the developing nervous system. The study may improve understanding of the disorder and lead to potential treatments for patients.

Researchers produce motor neurons from embryonic stem cells

Scientists have made a breakthrough in growing functioning motor neurons from embryonic stem cells, a crucial step towards regenerating nerve tissue lost to disease or trauma. The success of the experiments suggests that human motor neurons can be grown using the same approach.

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.

Study identifies protein in human brain development

Researchers discovered beta catenin's role in regulating cortical growth, which may be associated with brain diseases such as mental retardation. The study also found that overexpressing beta catenin in neural precursor cells caused the cerebral cortex to grow dramatically, leading to a wrinkled appearance similar to humans.

Quick blood test for heart failure proves successful in multinational trial

A new blood test for congestive heart failure has shown high accuracy in diagnosing the condition, with nearly 90% of cases correctly identified. The BNP test detects elevated levels of a hormone released by the heart ventricles when pressure rises, and has been proven effective in emergency rooms worldwide.

2002 ESA award winners

The Ecological Society of America honored its 2002 award winners for their contributions to ecology, including George Mercer Award recipient Jonathon Levine's innovative approach to managing invasive species. The Eugene P. Odum Education Award was given to Margaret Lowman for her work in ecology education and research.

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.

MIT technique could improve cartilage repair

A new MIT technique involves growing cartilage cells within a novel gel, which is then delivered to damaged joints. The engineered tissue has mechanical and biochemical properties similar to native cartilage.

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.

Grant of £20 million to establish the Schistosomiasis Control Initiative

The £20 million grant will support the development of local and international partnerships to improve training and treatment delivery, with a focus on emulating the program's success in other countries. The initiative aims to reduce the burden of schistosomiasis in Africa by providing effective control measures.

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.

Benefit of adding chemotherapy to tamoxifen for breast cancer

A randomized trial found that adding chemotherapy to tamoxifen significantly increases disease-free and overall survival rates for postmenopausal women with lymph node-negative, ER-negative breast cancer. In contrast, no survival benefit was observed for those with ER-positive tumors.

Post-surgery chemotherapy questioned for certain breast cancer patients

Patients with ER-negative tumors who received chemotherapy had a 15% increase in disease-free survival and 89% overall survival rate. In contrast, those with ER-positive tumors did not show additional survival benefits from chemotherapy. The study suggests tailoring cancer treatments to patient characteristics.

Drug wrecks the power plants of cancer cells

Researchers discovered a compound that selectively inhibits the growth of breast cancer cells engineered to overexpress HER-2, a protein implicated in 20-30% of human breast cancers. The compound, F16, targets the mitochondria of cancer cells, causing them to swell and eventually rupture, leading to cell death.

JAMA article focuses on commercial filming of patients in hospitals

A JAMA article examines the ethics and law surrounding commercial filming of patient care activities in hospitals, highlighting potential risks to patient privacy. The authors propose guidelines for informed consent before filming, balancing commercial interests with patients' rights.

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.

Many federal supervisors unaware of disability initiatives

A recent survey found that many federal supervisors are unaware of available accommodations for workers with disabilities, including those applying for jobs or using telecommuting options. The study suggests that the government needs to improve education and resources to help supervisors better accommodate employees with disabilities.

Aspirin's target, the COX-2 enzyme, linked to cancer of the uterus

Research suggests that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin may be effective in treating uterine cancer by inhibiting the COX-2 enzyme. The study also found increased levels of COX-2 and prostaglandins in endometriosis, a painful condition where tissue from the uterus attaches to other organs.

Computerized phone chats can motivate couch potatoes

A study found that participants receiving automated, computer-based telephone intervention increased their level of physical activity after three months. However, the effectiveness dropped off by six months. The researchers suggest continued refinement of automated telephone interventions.

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.

Cigarette marketing can undermine good parenting

A study found that cigarette advertising and promotions can circumvent the protective effects of authoritative parenting. Teens from less authoritative households are more susceptible to tobacco ads and promotions. Parents can counter this by discussing marketing tactics with their teenagers.