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Science News Archive 2003


Page 28 of 108

Report shows high arsenic in some southeast NH private wells

A recent study by the USGS found that 20% of homes in Hillsborough, Rockingham, and Strafford counties have arsenic concentrations above 10 micrograms per liter. In some areas, the incidence is as high as 30%. The study highlights the importance of testing private wells for arsenic to protect public health.

In childhood leukemia study, aggressive chemotherapy cuts deaths by 37%

A study found that using aggressive chemotherapy with high doses of methotrexate, asparaginase, and doxorubicin improves survival rates for children with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia by 15 percentage points. The new approach also showed minimal long-term effects beyond those seen in lower-dose treatment regimens.

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.

Purdue researchers solve decades-old corn, sorghum problem

A team of Purdue University researchers has identified the genetic mechanism responsible for dwarfed appearance in corn and sorghum plants. This finding may help develop dwarf forms in other crops, improving food production in certain regions. The study also reveals a genetic phenomenon involving direct duplication that causes instabil...

Researchers receive $4.9 million grant to continue study of children prenatally

Case Western Reserve University researchers will continue their study on children prenatally exposed to cocaine, now in their 14th year of funding, due to a new $4.9 million grant from the National Institute on Drug Abuse. The ongoing research has found associations between prenatal cocaine exposure and cognitive skills development.

Healthy neighbors rescue degenerating motor neurons

Researchers discovered that healthy astrocytes and glia can rescue motor neurons containing ALS-causing mutations from degeneration. The study suggests inserting healthy astrocytes into ALS patients may reduce or prevent motor-neuron degeneration.

Vibrating insoles could improve balance for elderly people

A study found that vibrating insoles can significantly improve balance and reduce sway among elderly participants. Younger individuals also showed reduced sway with stimulation, suggesting the potential of noise-based devices to enhance motor control performance.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Paradox in the lungs resolved

Researchers have resolved a long-standing paradox surrounding lung collectins, finding they play two roles in the lungs: dampening and promoting immune responses. This discovery sheds light on how these versatile proteins protect against both harmful pathogens and excessive inflammation.

TIGR and NIAID sign $65 million microbial sequencing contract

Under the contract, TIGR will sequence dozens of genomes per year to provide data for vaccine and antimicrobial drug development projects. The institute's affiliated facility has already conducted sequencing for over 50 organisms, including microbes that cause various diseases.

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.

Neurons that play truth or consequences

Researchers found neurons in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) respond to discrepancies between intentions and actual events, indicating that the brain monitors the consequences of actions. The study used detailed studies measuring neural activity in macaque monkeys performing tasks requiring self-control.

UCSD researchers find promising new avenues for treating infections

Researchers at UCSD have identified chemicals that can protect cells from the effects of the toxin, raising hope for a novel treatment for Pseudomonas infections. The study found that ExoU toxin kills cells by targeting cell membrane phospholipids, but alternative treatments may be possible.

Baby boomers beware

A recent study found that nearly two-thirds of US elderly have unmet needs for help with daily activities, whereas in Sweden, less than four percent experience such gaps. The US healthcare policy has been criticized for directing few resources towards community-based services.

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

A dangerous duo: Heart disease and diabetes

Researchers have discovered a potential therapeutic target for treating hyperglycemic damage in endothelial cells, which is linked to both diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Inhibiting GAPDH activity by poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase could activate three major pathways of damage, providing new avenues for treatment.

JCI Table of Contents, 1 October, 2003

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have developed a strategy using erythropoietin to enhance heart function and prevent cell death after ischemic injury. A novel protective effect of erythropoietin has been shown in the infarcted heart, demonstrating a therapeutic window of opportunity for acute protection and long-term pres...

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.

Possible brain cancer-air pollution link to be studied

Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center are studying the link between brain cancer and air pollution, led by Dr. Keith Black. The study aims to determine whether exposure to toxic air pollutants can cause changes in brain tissue associated with brain cancer formation.

New surface can find different twists on a molecular theme

Researchers at the University of Missouri-Rolla have created a new material that can differentiate between chiral molecules, which is essential for creating new chemical sensors and catalysts. The stable and relatively simple catalyst could help sort biologically potent chemicals from less useful or toxic counterparts.

Huge Antarctic iceberg makes a big splash on sea life

A massive Antarctic iceberg, C-19, blocked the movement of sea ice in the Ross Sea region, resulting in unusually high sea-ice cover and a significant reduction in primary production. This study used satellite imagery and chlorophyll data to quantify the effects of the iceberg on phytoplankton growth.

Spectators discouraged from watching building demolitions

Researchers investigated the impact of a building demolition on air quality and found that airborne dust concentrations were extremely high in immediate vicinity and downwind areas. Spectators are advised to stay upwind and indoors to avoid exposure to high levels of particulate matter.

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.

A realistic way to save rainforests

Researchers have developed a novel approach to conserve rainforests by finding potential pharmaceuticals, contributing to conservation efforts, and providing economic benefits. The pilot project in Panama demonstrates the feasibility of this method, creating jobs and infrastructure while protecting the rainforest.

New way of examining lymph tissue detects hidden melanoma

Researchers developed a new method to detect melanoma in lymph nodes using molecular analysis, revealing 25% of cancer-free patients had undetectable metastases. The study found patients with multiple markers were more likely to develop recurrence and die from the disease.

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.

Study: Racial, ethnic disparities seen in all types of pain

A study found racial and ethnic disparities in pain perception, diagnosis, and treatment across various specialties. Disparities were seen in emergency departments, cancer clinics, chronic pain, and disability, with African Americans and Hispanics facing unequal access to pain medication and treatment.

New breast cancer mannequin to revolutionize teaching of breast cancer awareness

A new, highly accurate breast cancer mannequin is being launched to assist women in spotting breast lumps and provide a unique training experience. The device features interchangeable breast implants and realistic skin texture, benefiting not only those with learning difficulties but also women from diverse cultural backgrounds.

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.

Pneumococcal vaccine significantly reduces disease in South African children

A South African clinical trial showed a significant reduction in pneumococcal disease incidence with the conjugate vaccine, resulting in a 5% decrease among all children and a 6% decrease among HIV-infected children. The study demonstrates the vaccine's effectiveness in preventing invasive pneumococcal disease and saving lives.

Solar contribution to 'global warming' predicted to decrease

Researchers predict a decrease in solar activity's impact on global warming over the next 100 years, with potential returns to current levels by 2200. The study suggests that solar variability will not amplify climate change, but rather subdue its effects.

Aggregation of cloned mouse embryos improves survival rate

Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have successfully aggregated cloned mouse embryos, improving their survival rate to 8 percent. The technique involves combining two clones at an early embryonic stage, which helps compensate for genetic deficiencies and leads to correct temporal and spatial gene expression.

Census study: whites less likely than blacks to live with extended family

A recent census study found that white families are less likely to live in extended family households than black families, which has shifted over time. This shift started in the late 1960s and was more pronounced among whites, with a significant decline in intergenerational living compared to blacks.

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.

McMaster University researchers race to SARS vaccine development

A breakthrough discovery has been made by McMaster University researchers, who have cloned the gene that marks an important nuclear protein of the SARS virus. The team plans to test their newly engineered adenovirus vector in animals for protective effects against the deadly disease.

La Niña takes Bolivian Andes on a sedimental journey

Researchers use a lightweight device to extract core samples from sediment deposits in Bolivia, revealing that sediment transport is only possible during La Niña events. The findings suggest that the Andes Mountains play a crucial role in shaping the Amazon River's sediment load.

October 2004 Ophthalmology journal

This edition of the Ophthalmology journal presents significant research findings on PRK after 12 years, multifocal intraocular lenses, and posterior capsule opacification. The studies also investigate photorefractive keratectomy outcomes, LASIK lens power calculation methods, and new treatments for glaucoma and retinal diseases.

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.

Novel technology to monitor 'hidden depths' of silent killer

Researchers are evaluating the effects of CRESTOR on atherosclerosis using cutting-edge imaging technologies like IVUS and MRI. The goal is to slow or even reverse the progression of this silent killer disease, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.

New insight into heart failure suggests novel drug target

A study found that disrupting PI3Kgamma preserves beta-adrenergic receptors on heart cells, leading to improved heart function and longer survival in mice. The loss of beta-adrenergic receptors contributes to heart failure, but this intervention may provide a new therapeutic approach.

Turkey genome research may help producers breed a better turkey

Researchers have successfully mapped the domestic turkey genome, which will aid in breeding birds with beneficial traits such as disease resistance and increased reproduction. This study leverages information from the chicken genome to improve turkey breeding practices.

MRI accurately depicts spread of cancer to bone

A study published in Radiology found that MRI can accurately detect bone invasion by soft-tissue sarcomas, with a sensitivity and specificity of 100% and 93%, respectively. This accuracy enables radiologists to confidently evaluate MR results for bone involvement, previously reserved for soft tissue involvement.

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.

Research offers insight on treatment for hereditary eye disease

Researchers have identified a molecular understanding of the abnormal proteins causing retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye disease. They will now focus on designing effective drugs to delay disease progression by stabilizing the mutated rhodopsin protein.

Contrast mammography reveals hard-to-find cancers

A new dual-energy, contrast-enhanced digital subtraction mammography technique has shown promising results in revealing hard-to-detect breast cancers. The study found that the technique was able to identify cancerous tumors in 13 out of 26 patients, with accuracy rates similar to those achieved by breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Study shows link between antibiotics and allergies, asthma

A recent study by Henry Ford Health found a significant link between early antibiotic use in children and an increased risk of developing allergies and asthma. The study followed 448 children from birth to seven years and found that those who received antibiotics in the first six months were more likely to develop these conditions.

NIAID funds construction of biosafety laboratories

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) has awarded grants to fund the construction of six biosafety laboratories, including three NBLs and three RBLs. The new labs will provide a safe environment for scientists to conduct critical research on infectious diseases and bioterrorism.

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.

Tylenol awards $250,000 to outstanding healthcare students

The Tylenol Scholarship is one of the largest merit scholarship programs in the United States for all health-related studies. Since its inception in 1991, more than $6 million in scholarship grants have been awarded to over 5,000 students by McNeil Consumer & Specialty Pharmaceuticals.