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Science News Archive 2003 - Page 43


Page 43 of 108

Scientists rewrite laws of glacial erosion

Researchers at Michigan State University discover that glaciers sculpt and erode landscapes through a phenomenon called glaciohydraulic supercooling, which affects the rate of erosion. This new understanding allows for better comprehension of how glaciers subdue mountains.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature·DateAug 13, 2003

Childhood leukemia survivors not receiving radiation have same life expectancy as general population

A long-term follow-up study of childhood ALL survivors found that those who did not receive brain radiation had comparable survival rates, employment, and marital rates to the general population. However, those who received brain radiation had a slight increase in death rate due to second cancer and higher unemployment rates.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 13, 2003

ACPM recommends research priorities for child and adolescent immunizations

The American College of Preventive Medicine recommends prioritizing research on improving vaccine delivery and funding for immunization programs. All children and adolescents without contraindications should receive immunizations against 11 diseases, according to ACPM's recommendations.

SourceAmerican College of Preventive Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateAug 13, 2003
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.

Genomes of tiny microbes yield clues to global climate change

Scientists have sequenced the genomes of four types of cyanobacteria, including Prochlorococcus and Synechococcus, which play a critical role in regulating atmospheric carbon dioxide. The completed genome sequences provide insights into how these single-celled organisms convert solar energy into living biomass.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·JournalNature·DateAug 13, 2003

Endostatin also effective on head and neck cancers

Researchers found endostatin treatment reduced invasive head and neck cancer cells by half and their migratory capabilities by one-quarter. The study suggests an implanted drug delivery system could provide sustained therapeutic drug levels directly to tumors.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAnticancer Research·DateAug 12, 2003

Finding dirty bombs and other radiation threats

NIST researchers are investigating detection devices to detect dirty bombs and radiation threats, ensuring accuracy in various conditions. The new standards will improve the calibration of detectors, reducing errors in measuring high, medium, or low energy radiation sources.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateAug 12, 2003

Researcher invents new graphing method

Researchers from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health developed the Diamond Graph method to correct long-standing errors of 3-D bar graphs. The new method represents all variables equally on a 2-D graph using expanding polygons within a diamond-shaped grid.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalThe American Statistician·DateAug 12, 2003
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.

Chlamydia infection prevalent among female army recruits

A recent study found that nearly 10% of female Army recruits tested positive for chlamydia, with rates increasing over time, highlighting the need for regular screenings and treatments to prevent long-term health consequences like pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalSexually Transmitted Diseases·DateAug 12, 2003

Natural hormone could reverse heart damage

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered that altering leptin's signaling pathway can minimize or even reverse left ventricular hypertrophy, a condition causing the heart to expand and stiffen. Leptin infusions led to weight loss and improved heart function in mice with obesity, while caloric restriction had no effect.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·DateAug 12, 2003

Schizophrenia could cause patients to forget their medication

Research suggests that schizophrenia impairs habitual prospective memory, leading to high rates of non-adherence to medication. The study found that people with schizophrenia are more likely to forget to turn over a counter during an obstacle course test.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Psychiatry·DateAug 12, 2003

Penn study: Herb product used to lower cholesterol works no better than placebo

A new study by the University of Pennsylvania School found that guggulipid, a traditional herbal remedy, has no impact on lowering cholesterol levels. The research suggests that dietary supplements need rigorous testing for safety and efficacy, with further studies planned to investigate its effects on triglycerides and inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJAMA·DateAug 12, 2003

Drug may eliminate transfusions in patients with blood disorder

Researchers found that administering hydroxyurea to patients with severe forms of beta-thalassemia boosted hemoglobin levels and enabled five patients to stop undergoing transfusions. The treatment also improved quality of life for the children, who reported feeling better and more active.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood·DateAug 12, 2003
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.

Single photon detector conquers the dark side

The NIST-developed device detects single photons with negligible dark counts using a tungsten film coupled to fiber optic communication line. It achieves a detection rate of 20,000 photons per second with an efficiency of 20%, aiming for over 80% improvement.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateAug 12, 2003

Study calls for major reforms in marketing of ephedra

A study found that 41% of web sites selling ephedra products failed to disclose potential adverse effects or contraindications, while 53% did not reveal the dosage of ephedra alkaloids. The authors recommend that makers of dietary supplements containing ephedra should voluntarily disclose pertinent information about the supplements.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateAug 12, 2003

Global warming not man-made phenomenon

Researchers suggest celestial processes dominate climate change, with cosmic rays influencing low-level cloud formation and blocking sun warming. Human-caused greenhouse gas emissions are secondary to natural forces.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature·DateAug 12, 2003
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Hypnosis doesn't improve pain relief strategies

Researchers found that hypnosis did not provide better pain relief compared to non-hypnotic treatments. The amount of pain relief experienced was largely due to participants' expectations from the therapy, according to the study's lead author.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalHealth Psychology·DateAug 12, 2003

Scientists celebrate a sea turtle’s homecoming

Researchers tracked Miss Pearl's epic journey and welcomed her back to her nesting beach in Nicaragua after three years, gaining crucial insights into hawksbill sea turtle behavior and habitat protection. The satellite transmitter on Miss Pearl's back provided vital information on her location and diving patterns.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·DateAug 12, 2003

Endostatin promising treatments for AIDS-related cancer

Researchers at Ohio State University found that endostatin can stop Kaposi's sarcoma cells from growing new blood vessels and migrating through the body. The study suggests a controlled release of endostatin could be an effective treatment option for patients with KS.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Cellular Biochemistry·DateAug 12, 2003
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.

Genetic risks for disease often missing from patient charts

A new study by Northwestern University researchers reveals that nearly 80% of patients have a moderate or high genetic risk for adult-onset conditions. Using family history questionnaires and three-generation pedigrees, the team identified twice as many individuals at increased risk than documented in patient charts.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateAug 12, 2003

Study shows new drug reduces advanced Parkinson's disease symptoms

A new study finds that istradefylline, an adenosine A2A receptor antagonist, improves motor function in Parkinson's disease patients with reduced dyskinesias. The medication reduces the time patients experience tremors, slowness, and stiffness by up to 1.7 hours per day

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalNeurology·DateAug 12, 2003

Study reveals genetic activity of key step in malaria parasite's cycle

A recent study reveals that an unusually high percentage of genes are expressed during the critical stage of the malaria parasite's life cycle, when it invades red blood cells. The analysis shows a unique pattern of gene expression, with most genes expressed only once in a specific order, suggesting a molecular 'just in time' factory.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 11, 2003
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.

Lipids get the spotlight in new NIGMS 'Glue Grant'

The consortium aims to identify and measure all lipid types within a cell, improving understanding of their role in diseases. This knowledge will help develop more effective diagnostic devices and treatments for conditions like cardiovascular disease and inflammatory disorders.

SourceNIH/National Institute of General Medical Sciences·DateAug 11, 2003

Scientists develop greater accuracy in recording baby’s heart rates in the womb

Researchers have developed a new test that can accurately record baby's heart rates in the womb in just 20 minutes, allowing doctors to monitor health and detect potential arrhythmias. The technique uses sophisticated filtering and signal processing technologies to pick out the baby's heart signal from background interference.

SourceImperial College London·JournalBritish Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology·DateAug 11, 2003

Elementary schools need a lesson in bathroom breaks

A University of Iowa Health Care study found that public elementary school teachers often restrict young students' access to the bathroom, despite it being a common issue. Teachers with more experience were better equipped to recognize bladder problems and involved school nurses in addressing them.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateAug 11, 2003
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.

Carnegie Mellon researchers developing new ways to store tissue, organs

Researchers are working on developing engineering tools to monitor breakups in tissues and organs, with the goal of improving storage methods for transplant tissues. The team aims to create systems that can safely store complex tissues and organs, which could lead to breakthroughs in disease treatment and expand organ availability.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateAug 11, 2003

Weizmann Institute scientists report why taste and smell differ among individuals

Weizmann Institute scientists found that around 50 genes are optional, affecting a person's unique pattern of active olfactory receptors. This high level of genetic variation impacts how thousands of aromas and flavors are perceived. The study also shows varying levels of obliteration among different ethnic groups.

SourceAmerican Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science·JournalNature Genetics·DateAug 11, 2003

$13 million grant boosts breast cancer research

The Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center has been awarded a $13 million SPORE grant to support innovative research in breast cancer. The grant will fund four scientific projects and six core facilities, focusing on identifying molecular targets for lung, breast, and colorectal cancer.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·DateAug 11, 2003
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.

SFVAMC researchers distinguish dementias using brain imaging

Studies found that patients with vascular dementia had less NAA in regions involved in short-term memory and language, while those with Alzheimer's had substantial NAA deficits. Accuracy improved when combining MRI and MR spectroscopy measures, suggesting potential for recovery through drug treatment.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNeurology·DateAug 11, 2003

Diagnosing chronic fatigue? Check for sinusitis

A study found that patients with unexplained chronic fatigue had nine times more prevalent sinus symptoms than the control group, and six times more common in those with unexplained chronic pain. Sinusitis may be a contributing factor to chronic fatigue syndrome in some cases.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateAug 11, 2003

INEEL researchers develop medical imagery breakthrough

The Change Detection System (CDS) technology developed by INEEL researchers uses computer analysis and human reflex to highlight subtle differences between digital images. This breakthrough technology has potential applications in various fields, including medicine, security, forensics, and field research.

SourceDOE/Idaho National Laboratory·DateAug 11, 2003
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.

Parkinson's medication linked to gambling

A study of 1,884 Parkinson's patients found that nine developed pathological gambling, with most taking high doses of dopamine agonists. The condition was often linked to financial problems and could be controlled with treatment changes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateAug 11, 2003

NASA funds U. of Colorado study of changes in earth's glacier systems

The study aims to analyze satellite imagery to create a new baseline of current glacier conditions for comparison with historical measurements. Researchers will focus on two regions: central Asia and southern Alaska, where glaciers have experienced unprecedented ice loss, affecting freshwater sources and regional ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateAug 11, 2003
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.

Stanford research shows targeted DNA vaccine may reverse autoimmune disease

Researchers at Stanford Medicine developed a targeted DNA vaccine that can predict and treat autoimmune diseases like M.S. by analyzing antibody profiles. The vaccine uses tolerization to knock out harmful immune responses while leaving the rest of the system functional, offering new hope for personalized therapies.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateAug 10, 2003

2003 Dirac Medal of the ICTP

V. Zakharov received the 2003 Dirac Medal of the ICTP for his groundbreaking work on mathematical physics of nonlinear phenomena, particularly in the field of weak wave turbulence. His research has significantly contributed to our understanding of plasma physics, hydrodynamics, magnetism, and optics.

SourceAbdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics·DateAug 8, 2003
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.

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.

Columbia research examines mega earthquake threats

Scientists mapped locked zones on the Cascadia megathrust, revealing a 56-mile swath of land faces a greater threat from earthquakes than previously thought. Another major earthquake is expected within the next 200 to 800 years, putting rapidly growing inland cities at risk.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalNature·DateAug 8, 2003

UCSD biologists discover key step for 'designer plants' that could clean up heavy metals

Researchers at UCSD have discovered a chemical that allows plants to transport phytochelatins from roots to stems and leaves, enabling them to detoxify heavy metals like lead, arsenic, and cadmium. This finding brings bioremediation, using plants to clean up contaminated soil, closer to reality.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 8, 2003

Deer help disperse seeds--including noxious weeds

Deer facilitate seed dispersal to native plants in recovering habitats, but also spread invasive species like multiflora rose. White-tailed deer transport seeds up to two miles through their pellets, contributing to plant migration.

SourceCornell University·DateAug 8, 2003
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.

Children with bowel disease prone to emotional problems

A study by Ohio State University researchers found that children with mild inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are more likely to experience behavioral and emotional problems, including being withdrawn or anxious. The study also showed a link between the severity of IBD and social functioning.

SourceOhio State University·DateAug 8, 2003