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Science News Archive 2003


Page 105 of 108

Vitamins may protect against heart disease

Research suggests that taking dietary supplements of L-arginine and antioxidants like vitamins C and E may lower the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease. The treatment reduced inflammation and increased production of eNOS, a molecule that prevents blood clots.

Walking sticks lost wings, then re-evolved them

A new study by Brigham Young University researchers found that walking stick species re-evolved wings after losing them 50 million years earlier. The discovery raises questions about the basics of evolutionary theory and suggests that complexity can be maintained over tens of millions of years.

Lightning really does strike more than twice

A NASA study found that lightning strikes in multiple locations, with 35% of recorded flashes striking the ground in two or more places. On average, each cloud-to-ground flash struck the ground in 1.45 separate places, increasing the risk of being struck by 45%.

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.

UMass study reconsiders formation of Antarctic ice sheet

A UMass study suggests that greenhouse gases were the primary driver behind the rapid formation of Antarctica's ice sheet, contradicting a long-held theory on plate tectonics. The researchers used computer simulations to recreate the world 34 million years ago and found that a drop in carbon dioxide levels triggered the glaciation.

NASA scientists take first 'full-body scan' of evolving thunderstorm

Researchers gather data from an unusual storm over the Amazon rainforest to analyze the storm's inner workings, revealing a two-phase process where both precipitation forms at lower altitudes and higher in the atmosphere. The study provides new insight into storm intensity and hazards, which should be avoided by aircraft.

Is remote sensing the answer to today's agriculture problems?

Scientists at North Carolina State University developed a remote sensing technique to accurately time nitrogen fertilizer applications in wheat, resulting in an 86% success rate across various environmental conditions. This technology allows growers to make informed decisions that balance profitability and environmental stewardship.

Human lymph disease could tail off thanks to gecko

Researchers studying the common Australian gecko Christinus marmoratus have found a protein growth factor that contributes to its ability to quickly regenerate its tail after losing it. This discovery is encouraging for treating human lymphoedema, but more research is needed.

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.

Medical devices safe, but could be safer with better regulation

A recent study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that medical devices used in procedures like bronchoalveolar lavage can pose a risk of contamination, leading to infections and even fatalities. The study suggests implementing federal standards for recall notices sent to physicians who use the devices.

Blood banking systems improving in China, more progress needed

China's blood banking system is fragmenting due to rural-urban differences and has a scarcity of volunteer donors, leading to paid donations and illegal activities. Improvements are needed to adopt a volunteer-donor-only system, increasing education and training for those involved in blood collection and transfusion.

Growing human antibodies in algae

Researchers create a new, cost-effective way to produce human therapeutic proteins using algae. They can now make large quantities of antibodies and other proteins much cheaper than traditional methods.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Iron overload gene tied to colon cancer increased risk

Research found that people with a specific iron overload gene mutation are at higher risk of developing colon cancer, especially with increasing age and iron intake. The study analyzed DNA samples from over 1,300 adults and found a significant association between HFE gene mutations and an increased risk of colon cancer.

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.

Dogs on fatty diet may give clues to human disease development

A study by Purdue University scientists found that dogs on fatty diets exhibited reduced growth, bone formation, and immune function. The research suggests that oxidized fats in the diet can contribute to aging and disease development in humans, particularly children during critical stages of growth.

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.

Scientists make a BID towards understanding chronic myelomonocytic leukemia

Scientists have discovered that BID protein plays a crucial role in regulating apoptosis of myeloid cells, which are prone to developing CMML. In mice genetically engineered to lack BID, researchers found an overexpansion of myeloid cells leading to leukemia, highlighting potential tumor suppression roles for other BH3-only proteins.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Other highlights of the January 15 JNCI

Breast cancer patients with HER-2/neu overexpression have lower hormone receptor levels, affecting treatment response. HFE gene mutations increase colon cancer risk in the US population.

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.

Eye's light-detection system revealed

Researchers have discovered that a specific subset of retinal ganglion cells, containing the protein melanopsin, play a vital role in detecting light and controlling the pupil's response. Without melanopsin, the pupil fails to constrict fully in bright light.

Saving energy for sex

Researchers found that MSP binding to VAB-1 receptor triggers oocyte maturation in C. elegans, promoting successful fertilization. The study reveals an unexpected role for VAB-1 in reproduction.

Dinosaurs experienced climate changes before K-T collision

Researchers have resolved terrestrial paleoclimate records near the K-T boundary, correlating with marine data. Climate changes occurred globally, with warming events occurring 66 million years ago, and cooling trends preceding the K-T collision.

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.

Little value seen in CT scans for lung cancer screening

A recent study found that annual whole-body CT scanning for lung cancer screening may not be effective in saving lives, as the costs outweigh the benefits. The researchers estimated that only smokers who started quitting at age 55-65 saw significant cost-effectiveness in screening.

Worm sex receptor identified

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have identified a sperm-sensing receptor in worm eggs, enabling egg maturation and ovulation. The discovery sheds light on reproductive problems in humans, including failed meiosis leading to chromosome instability.

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.

Study: 15 percent of pregnant women drink alcohol

A recent study published by Michigan Medicine found that 15% of pregnant women consume alcohol, with most having less than one drink per week. However, a subgroup at high risk is identified, emphasizing the need for healthcare providers to assess and counsel drinking behavior during prenatal visits.

Study finds more than 1 in 10 pregnant women drink alcohol

A recent study found that more than 1 in 10 pregnant women consume alcohol during pregnancy. The research suggests that despite public awareness of the dangers, many women still drink while pregnant. Health care providers may play a crucial role in detecting drinking and providing timely interventions to protect fetal health.

Alcohol's effects on testosterone

A new study found that acute alcohol consumption increases plasma and brain testosterone concentrations in male rats, contrary to previous research. The study's authors suggest individual differences may underlie these variations, providing new insights into the behavioral and endocrine effects of alcohol abuse.

The influence of dates of birth on rates of alcoholism

A study confirms that individuals born more recently have higher rates of alcohol dependence, contrary to the age effect seen in other diseases. The study's findings suggest a potential 'epidemic' of alcoholism among young people, although underreporting and familial factors may also play a role.

'Moss in space' project to test how plants grow 'up'

Researchers investigate how simple plants like moss grow when deprived of gravity, exploring the role of light and internal forces. The study aims to understand the cellular mechanisms guiding plant growth and development in space.

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.

Adjuvant chemotherapy improves survival in early-stage ovarian cancer

Two trials found that adjuvant chemotherapy improved recurrence-free survival by 8-11% and overall survival by 5-9%, primarily benefiting patients with unrecognized residual disease. These findings suggest that adjuvant chemotherapy may be most effective in patients with non-optimal surgical staging.

Communication technique may improve health outcomes

Researchers found that using interactive techniques, such as checking patient recall and comprehension, can improve diabetes control without requiring longer visits. This technique is underused by physicians but holds great potential for improving patient outcomes.

MIT sugars research affecting bypass patients, drug industry

A team led by Professor Ram Sasisekharan at MIT has created designer drugs for preventing blood clots that can cause strokes and heart disease during surgery. The new formulations are more potent and effective than conventional forms of the drug, offering a potential alternative to existing treatments.

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.

First U.S. application of new simulation standard

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University successfully applied the new simulation standard IEEE 1516, enhancing collaboration and accuracy in simulations. The tool integration allowed for a more detailed cardiovascular system model, enabling analysis of cardiac arrhythmias and performance measures.

Plasma probe scientists ready for Rosetta blast-off

The Rosetta Plasma Consortium will monitor Comet Wirtanen over a long period, studying the structure of its 'bubble' of plasma and comparing it to its nucleus size. The instruments, built by researchers from various countries, are designed to detect and measure the properties of diffuse plasma in space.

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.

Sleep apnea treatment also effective for gastroesophageal reflux

A study by Duke University Medical Center found that nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment significantly reduced nocturnal gastroesophageal reflux symptoms in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. The treatment resulted in a 48% overall decrease in nGER symptoms, with 74.5% of patients showing improvement.

Bupropion may help schizophrenic patients quit smoking

Researchers found that bupropion significantly reduced negative symptoms of schizophrenia, improving motivation and social relationships, while also aiding in nicotine addiction treatment for schizophrenic patients. The study showed better smoking cessation outcomes with newer atypical antipsychotic medications.

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.

Chemical industry outlook somewhat brighter for 2003

The American Chemistry Council predicts a second-half recovery for the chemical industry globally, with 3.5% growth in physical chemical volume expected this year. Basic chemical shipments are expected to grow 3.8%, with the fertilizer industry leading the way with a 5.0% increase.