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Science News Archive October 2002


Page 4 of 10

Researchers discover 'doorways' into brain cells

Researchers discovered specialized domains on nerve cell surfaces that regulate the entry of molecules, revising a long-held theory. These 'endocytic zones' control receptor transport and are also entry points for nutrients and pathogens, offering new insights into brain development and neurological disorders.

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.

Men more dependent on exercise than women, UF study shows

A University of Florida study found that college-age men were more prone to excessive exercise and related negative effects compared to women. Men who exercised for physical and mental well-being benefits were more likely to become dependent on working out.

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.

Funding for global protein database

The UniProt database will consolidate existing protein databases SWISS-PROT, TrEMBL, and PIR to provide a non-redundant source of protein information. The new database aims to facilitate research on human disease and translate basic science into clinical applications.

Paper discusses circuitry for quantum computing

The paper proposes an experimentally realizable circuit and an efficient scheme to implement scalable quantum computing. Researchers aim to overcome two major stumbling blocks: preparing, manipulating, and measuring fragile quantum states and controlling connectivity between many qubits.

Better weather predictions in an avalanche of data

A team led by Zhang aims to improve daily weather forecasts by integrating vast amounts of observational data. Ensemble-based data assimilation focuses on incorporating uncertainties surrounding previous forecasts and current observations, using statistics to estimate initial conditions.

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.

Superconducting lithium

Researchers establish superconductivity in lithium at pressures greater than 30 GPa, with critical temperatures ranging from 9 K to 16 K. This finding contradicts theory and sparks interest in searching for high-temperature superconductivity in light element compounds.

Your brain is teaching your nose new tricks, say UC Berkeley researchers

Researchers at UC Berkeley have found that the adult brain has more capabilities to change than previously thought. By exposing non-detectors to a specific odor, they showed that both nostrils can learn to detect it, suggesting a central component in the brain is involved in olfactory learning.

Getting more mileage out of cord blood

Researchers have developed a method to culture and expand cord blood-derived stem cells, increasing their number by over 100-fold. The expanded cells showed improved potency in reconstituting the recipient's blood and immune cell systems.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New map shows human 'footprint' covers most of the Earth

A new map shows that 83 percent of the land's surface is under human influence, but still, wild areas remain, offering opportunities for conservation. The study also found that even in heavily influenced areas, wildlife can thrive, such as in India where tigers coexist with one billion people.

JCI table of contents, October 21, 2002

Researchers uncover the role of parasympathetic innervation in fat distribution, revealing functional implications for obesity. Additionally, studies explore the molecular mechanisms behind long QT-3 syndrome, immunodeficiencies, and intestinal lymphocyte recruitment, shedding light on novel therapeutic targets.

Internet access to nature sounds and bird videos

Cornell University's Macaulay Library has gained access to digital sound recordings and high-definition video clips, enabling researchers, conservationists, and citizen-scientists to support ornithology projects. The new system provides streaming capabilities for sounds and video over the Internet and maintains all digital assets.

Virginia Bioinformatics Institute to decode ‘plant devourer’ genomes

Researchers at Virginia Tech's Bioinformatics Institute will sequence the genomes of two Phytophthora species, including one that causes over $1 billion in soybean losses annually. The project aims to understand how these pathogens operate and develop strategies to control them, with potential benefits for marine species like diatoms.

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.

$2 million federal grant to study cancer drug action

Gene Network Sciences will use the federal grant to learn how pharmaceuticals work against cancer cells, creating computer models to identify nontoxic drug targets. The company aims to make drug-discovery more predictable for pharmaceutical and biotech companies with its new technology.

UNC forms Conte Center for multidisciplinary schizophrenia research

The UNC Conte Center will conduct four interrelated studies using distinct research methods to identify critical brain events triggering the development of psychotic symptoms in schizophrenia. The center aims to explain how certain behavioral and neurobiological factors transform normal individuals into those with schizophrenia.

Geneticists trace 'sticky' rice's origins

Researchers found that glutinous rice originated in Southeast Asia due to a single genetic mutation in the Waxy gene, which suppresses amylose and gives it its sticky composition. The study also suggests that early Asian farmers selectively bred glutinous rice for its desirable traits.

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.

Ouch! The receptors mediating acidic pain sensation

A study by Shinya Ugawa and colleagues found that acid sensing ion channels (ASICs) function as acid sensors within a specific pH range, while VR1 receptors are not involved. The ASICs inhibitor amiloride may be a useful analgesic for treating localized pain within this range.

New study shows weight loss decreases ACE enzyme that controls blood pressure

A new study published in Obesity Research reveals that shedding excess pounds decreases activity of the ACE enzyme, a key player in high blood pressure regulation. By losing weight, individuals can lower their risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and kidney disease, as well as experience significant improvements in blood pressure.

Hopkins to train Chinese researchers in genetics

The program aims to seed China with genetic expertise, focusing on medical genetics and responsible use of genetic research. Trainees will receive instruction in genetic epidemiology and biostatistics, as well as opportunities for postdoctoral positions or graduate studies.

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.

Delay in diagnosis for AS patients can lead to permanent spinal damage

A recent survey found that people with ankylosing spondylitis often experience delayed diagnosis, with two-thirds not receiving a proper diagnosis until at least five years after symptoms began. This delay can lead to permanent spinal damage and disability, affecting daily life, including mobility, sleep, and sex life.

New findings reconfirm toxicity of Pfiesteria cultures

A new study confirms Pfiesteria cultures can produce a toxic compound, contradicting previous claims that it was non-toxic. The research used standardized methods to test the strain, showing it could kill fish at low cell densities, and detected a potent water-soluble toxin in both pure culture and with algae.

Researchers determine how 'hospital staph' resists antibiotics

Resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus, also known as hospital staph, have become increasingly prevalent worldwide. Researchers have identified key differences in the structure of penicillin-binding protein 2A (PBP2a), which enables it to resist beta-lactam antibiotics.

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.

Dietary intake of vitamin E may reduce risk of Parkinson's disease

A large cohort study found that high dietary vitamin E intake was associated with a significantly lower risk of developing Parkinson's disease. However, the use of vitamin E or C supplements and multivitamins showed no protective effect on Parkinson's risk. The results suggest that other lifestyle factors may also play a role in reduci...

Visualising potential outcome of cancer treatment

Researchers used Diffusion-Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging (DWMRI) to visualize and measure water characteristics in mouse tumors before and after chemotherapy. They found a significant correlation between water diffusion properties prior to treatment and subsequent tumor growth rate.

GERD and other GI disorders may disrupt sleep

Two studies found significant relationships between GERD, peptic ulcer disease, and hiatal hernia with insomnia and excessive daytime sleepiness. Researchers measured sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index exam and objective measures like polysomnography.

Can Alzheimer's disease be slowed by shunting cerebrospinal fluid?

A recent study suggests that shunting cerebrospinal fluid may help slow cognitive decline in patients with Alzheimer's disease. In a small, controlled trial, patients with Alzheimer's and normal pressure hydrocephalus experienced relative stability compared to those without shunts.

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.

UCSD cancer researchers develop new anti-leukemia strategy

Researchers induce leukemia cells to change behavior and stimulate immune system, killing significant numbers of leukemia cells in a 3-step process. The approach has shown strong killing effect against AML cell lines but not other types of cancer, with potential for safe transfer back into patients.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Smoking found to be an important risk factor for colorectal polyps

Researchers found that smoking is an important risk factor for developing colorectal polyps, with smokers being more likely to have larger polyps and a greater potential for malignancy. The study suggests that physicians should consider performing screening colonoscopy in current smokers before age 50.

Tokamak fusion test reactor removal successfully completed

The Tokamak Fusion Test Reactor (TFTR) has been safely dismantled and removed, marking a significant milestone in the history of fusion research. The successful decommissioning demonstrates the promise of fusion as an environmentally attractive energy source, with minimal production of waste.

Hope for patients with advanced bowel cancer

Early results of North American trials of oxaliplatin show a 70% delay in tumour progression and significant improvement in symptoms for patients with advanced bowel cancer. The US FDA has approved the drug for use in these patients.

Stronger 'buckle up' laws linked to increased seat belt use

A study by University College London found that countries with stronger 'buckle up' laws experienced significant increases in seat belt use, up to 64% more respondents reporting use in 2000. Positive attitudes toward safety equipment played a key role in this shift.

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.

New screening method may speed hunt for disease-causing genes

Researchers have developed a new genetic screening method that narrows the pool of candidate genes from thousands to fewer than 100, potentially saving time and money. The technique uses a combination of quantitative trait locus mapping and microarray technology to identify genes with differential expression, which are more likely to b...

New screening technique may speed hunt for genes

Scientists have developed a new genetic screening technique that narrows the pool of candidate genes from thousands to fewer than 100, potentially speeding up the search for genes responsible for inherited traits. The method combines two established techniques and has been tested on fruit flies, with promising results.

Screening the general population for colorectal cancer

Screening for colorectal cancer is vital for early detection, with a significant reduction in mortality rates associated with early detection. Current techniques like colonoscopy are effective but expensive, prompting the need for alternative methods.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Family focus is hallmark of new South African grant

The new CIPRA grant will address HIV/AIDS as a family issue, not just an individual problem. The research aims to develop practical techniques tailored to the needs of South African families, with a focus on prevention, treatment, and social support services for those living with HIV/AIDS.

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.

NSF grant for study of student underperformance

Williams College researcher Dr. Fein has received a $240,455 NSF grant to investigate the links between social context, physiological arousal, and cognitive appraisals in relation to student underperformance. The research team will include experts from education, neuroscience, health, cognitive psychology, and social psychology.