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Science News Archive 2003


Page 104 of 108

Why do firms raise prices more readily than reducing them?

Research shows firms are quick to raise prices when costs increase, but not so keen to reduce prices when costs fall. Positive inflation raises output, preventing losses due to price asymmetries, while high inflation targets may have modest output gains.

No evidence that walk-in clinics offer inferior care, study says

A recent study by University of Toronto researchers found that walk-in clinic physicians spend similar amounts of time with patients as traditional family practitioners. The study also revealed high levels of personal satisfaction among walk-in clinic doctors regarding key aspects of their work.

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.

Relationships based on trust, reputation preferred by I-banks

A recent study by University of Toronto researchers found that investment banks prioritize past cooperative relationships and industry reputation when selecting underwriting partners. This challenges the conventional wisdom that talent and high returns are key factors in business dealings.

Minimum smallpox vaccination is best strategy for now, experts say

Smallpox experts suggest limiting vaccinations to first responders to prevent complications and ensure public safety. The authors cite studies from the 1960s documenting vaccine-related complications, including spread to close contacts and increased risk of morbidity and mortality.

Bone marrow generates new neurons in human brains

Researchers have found that bone marrow cells can enter the human brain and form new neurons, a phenomenon previously observed in mice. The study, led by Dr. Mezey, examined brain tissue from patients who received bone marrow transplants to treat leukemia and other diseases.

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.

Mouse model links alcohol intake to marijuana-like brain compounds

Researchers found a link between alcohol intake and endocannabinoid-like brain compounds in mice, suggesting a potential target for medication development. The study's findings parallel observations in humans, with age-dependent decline in alcohol preference and reduced CB1 receptor signaling.

New technique gets the red out of digital photographs

A researcher at the University of Toronto has developed a method to automatically remove the unsightly scarlet spots, known as red-eye, from digital images. The software isolates the reddened areas of the eyes and replaces them with natural eye color, providing a convenient solution for consumers.

Annals of Internal Medicine, tip sheet, January 21, 2003

A study on breast cancer treatment found that many women do not receive adjuvant chemotherapy as recommended, with age being a significant factor. In contrast, women with known heart disease are at high risk of future heart events but often lack preventive treatments, highlighting the need for better care coordination.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Supply and demand and illicit drugs

A recent Canadian Medical Association Journal investigation found that a massive heroin seizure had no impact on drug prices or overdose rates. Heroin prices actually decreased after the shipment was intercepted, raising questions about the effectiveness of supply-side interventions in controlling Canada's illicit drug epidemic.

Shaken baby syndrome in Canada

A study of Canadian children with shaken baby syndrome found nearly 20% died, 55% suffered lasting neurologic injuries, and 65% experienced visual impairment. The authors estimate at least 40 cases occur annually, calling for further research on prevention strategies.

Early-warning procedure can help more melanoma patients than previously thought

A new study reveals that sentinel lymph node mapping can be safely performed on patients with melanoma in the delicate head and neck area, allowing for early detection of cancer spread. The technique has been shown to accurately stage patients and identify those who need further treatment, potentially improving survival rates.

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.

Cherokee literature still affected by history of removal

A University of Toronto researcher is studying how the Cherokee people responded to forced removal, with a focus on accommodationist writers and resistant voices. His book aims to acknowledge the history of removal and its impact on Cherokee literature.

Cancer squeezes through the gaps

Researchers found that cancer cells can migrate through protein matrices by reverting to a more rounded shape, allowing them to continue moving even when inhibitors are present. This 'salvage' pathway could be targeted by new drugs to combat cancer spread.

New antibody library speeds search for new detection tools

A new antibody library developed by PNNL scientists can identify antibodies in days, reducing labor costs and improving the design of medical treatments. The library, which contains 1 billion human antibodies, uses a yeast surface display method to quickly screen for useful antibodies.

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.

Researchers achieve germline transmission of 'gene knockdown' in mice

Scientists have achieved germline transmission of 'gene knockdown' in mice by using genetic engineering to create mouse embryonic stem cells targeted with RNAi. This enables the manipulation of gene activity in specific tissues and allows for switching on and off at any time during development or adulthood.

Meanwhile, back to barnacles...

The US Navy is developing new antifouling hull coatings inspired by nature, using complex nanometer-scale patterns to prevent barnacles from attaching. These coatings have shown exceptional low settlement rates in early experiments, promising a reduction in fuel costs and frequent cleaning needs for Navy ships.

UAF Institute of Arctic Biology researcher featured in Science

UAF Institute of Arctic Biology researcher comments on a Science article about patterned ground, a process of self-organization in nonliving things. The research highlights the emergence of intricate patterns in Alaskan mountain ranges and North Slope, without predicting or natural selection.

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.

Longest ice cores retrieved from Canadian Yukon

Researchers collected and analyzed a record-breaking ice core in the St. Elias range, providing insights into the North Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO). The PDO is a 20-30 year climate cycle affecting weather across North America, with cool and warm phases centered in the North Pacific.

Researchers identify protein that kills cancer cells

Researchers identified a protein called CUGBP2 that regulates the production of COX-2, a key culprit in arthritis and cancer. When CUGBP2 levels are high, it triggers cancer cell death by inhibiting COX-2 production.

Prescott Prize to Diane and Mark Littler

The book is a comprehensive guide to the flora of the Caribbean, featuring over 700 underwater color photographs and detailed information on 565 species of marine plants. The award recognizes the widespread need for this reference among students, researchers, and reef managers.

Influences on quality of life in early old age

The study reveals that health and socio-economic factors have a natural impact on quality of life in early old age. Having control over work choices also significantly affects quality of life, with those who choose to retire or work beyond normal retirement age enjoying better lives than those with limited options.

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.

Ant agriculture: 50 million years of success

Researchers studied DNA sequences to understand co-evolutionary system between ants, garden fungi and parasitic fungal weeds. They found that the system has been locked in an evolutionary 'arms race' for millions of years.

From slime to saviors: Sorting out the fungal family tree

The study aims to identify disease-fighting fungi and understand their role in nutrient cycling. By analyzing multiple genes and structural characteristics, researchers will create a database to distinguish between beneficial and harmful fungal species.

Evolving slower gets you the bigger piece of the pie

A recent study by Max Planck Institute researchers found that in mutualistic interactions between species, the faster-evolving species may actually lose out. The slow-moving species can gain an advantage when both are generous and coordinate their strategies, whereas quickly evolving species tend to adapt to slow evolvers' needs.

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.

Researchers find a molecule that improves wound repair

Researchers at McGill University have discovered a molecule that accelerates wound healing, providing a potential treatment option for millions of Americans suffering from burns and chronic skin ulcers. The growth factor progranulin has been shown to improve skin repair, offering new hope for individuals affected by these conditions.

Researchers discover how embryo attaches to the uterus

Scientists found that the embryo uses L-selectin on its surface to bind with carbohydrate molecules on the uterine wall, leading to a complete stop and attachment. This discovery may provide information useful for treating infertility and potentially offer insight into preeclampsia.

Leptin regulates the immune response to friend and foe

Researchers found leptin significantly correlates with reduction in food intake and weight loss prior to developing EAE symptoms. Modulating leptin concentration through dietary approaches may have potential utility in treating MS and other autoimmune diseases.

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.

Back pain under-recognised in less-developed countries

A cross-sectional study of Tibetan adults found that low back pain is a significant problem, impairing health and productivity. Effective interventions, such as safer back positioning and flip-charts, can help reduce the burden of low back pain in rural societies.

Researchers decipher cause of parasite’s worldwide spread

A study published in Science reveals that Toxoplasma parasites can rapidly adapt to new hosts, allowing them to infect a wide range of animal species and spread worldwide. This discovery raises the possibility of other parasites undergoing similar changes, potentially presenting new threats of infection.

Rapid diagnostic test for plague

A rapid diagnostic test for plague has been developed to detect antigens at low concentrations within 15 minutes of infection. The test is 100% sensitive and reliable, detecting more infections than conventional laboratory assessments and providing opportunities for bioterrorism preparedness and response.

Magnetic 'slinky effect' may power aurora

Research at the University of Minnesota suggests that magnetic field lines, similar to a slinky, can produce energy waves that accelerate electrons toward Earth. These waves are sufficient to power auroras, which occur in ring-shaped patterns around the poles.

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.

Umbilical cord matrix, a rich new stem cell source, study shows

Researchers have discovered a new source of stem cells in the umbilical cord, which can be obtained through a non-invasive method. The cord matrix stem cells have been shown to differentiate into neurons and glia, exhibiting telomerase activity and producing nerve-cell specific traits.

JCI table of contents, January 15 2003

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the effects of HIV protease inhibitors on atherosclerosis, as well as exploring novel gene therapies for epidermolysis bullosa. Additionally, studies on CXCR4/CXCL12 interaction reveal new insights into hematopoietic stem cell mobilization.

Scientists discover what makes human embryo attach to uterus

Researchers found that a molecular sticking process stops the embryo's journey along the uterine wall and starts attaching it to the wall, creating a sticky environment. The discovery of L-selectin protein helps to understand human embryo implantation and may prove useful to treat infertility.

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.

Reversible switch presages new paradigm for surface design

The UCSB team has developed a reversible switch for surface design, allowing for dynamic regulation of macroscopic properties. The technology uses alkanethiolates to create nanometer-thin interfaces that can be controlled as a function of space and time.

Picking your way through a minefield

The Office of Naval Research is developing a suite of technologies to help sailors and Marines avoid mines during amphibious landings. The systems, including Moving Map, Augmented Reality Visualization, and Expeditionary Warfare Decision Support System, aim to reduce the risk of accidents by providing real-time navigation data.

New study suggests missing link that explains how dinosaurs learned to fly

Scientists have discovered that ancient birds used a unique 'wing-assisted incline running' behavior to help them climb vertical surfaces, which may be the key to explaining how dinosaurs learned to fly. This behavior, found in modern-day birds, involves rapid movement of the front appendages to gain foot traction as it climbs.

Bringing bandwidth to the battlefield

The Navy's new concept, FORCEnet, focuses on integrating long-haul networks, knowledge management tools, and wireless technologies to support warfighters in the field. This initiative aims to provide real-time information advantage and enhance combat operations.

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.

Teens reveal strategies to quit, cut back on drinking

A survey of 1,069 high school students found that teens consider 'avoiding environments with alcohol' and 'talking with friends or other informal supports' as effective strategies to cut back on drinking. Formal counseling was more useful for quitting than reducing drinking, according to the teens.

Early diagnosis of childhood diabetes

Scientists at British Columbia's Children's Hospital reveal a method for directly measuring the level of self-destructive white blood cells in mouse blood, distinguishing those that go on to develop diabetes from those that do not. The technique may also be used to detect other autoimmune disorders.

MIT’s smart surface switches properties reversibly

Researchers at MIT create a switchable surface that can change from water-attracting to water-repelling by applying an electric field, with potential applications in drug delivery and biomedical engineering. The surface's properties are controlled using conformational transitions, allowing for reversible modification.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

New approach for reducing bleeding after surgery

Researchers found that recombinant activated factor VIIA significantly reduced blood loss during abdominal prostate removal surgery. Patients given the drug required no blood transfusions, whereas those receiving placebo did.

When to screen for diabetic eye disease?

A new study from the Liverpool Diabetic Eye Study has proposed optimal screening intervals for diabetic eye disease, based on incidence data. The findings suggest that patients with no baseline retinopathy should be screened every 3 years, while those with background retinopathy can be screened annually.

Scientists target microorganisms to break down toxic pesticide

Researchers have identified two microorganisms, Fusarium and Pandoraea spp., that can degrade the toxicity of endosulfan, a persistent organic pollutant. This breakthrough offers a potential solution for detoxifying contaminated sites, reducing toxic residues in soil.

Early mammals used pelvic bones to trot, study finds

Scientists discovered that early mammals used epipubic bones to stiffen their bodies during trotting steps, allowing for increased mobility and locomotor efficiency. This finding suggests that the development of these bones contributed significantly to the evolution of mammals.