Bluesky Facebook Reddit Email

Science News Archive 2003


Page 57 of 108

Harry Potter and the Ecuadorian flowers

A new species of the gentian family, Macrocarpaea apparata, has been discovered in Ecuador. The plant was found to have yellowish-white bell-shaped flowers that emerge only as darkness falls, mirroring the magical concept of apparition.

Researchers detect receptor for day/night cycles

Scientists have discovered a layer of cells in the inner retina containing melanopsin, which enables certain animals to synchronize their biological rhythms with day/night cycles. Melanopsin-free mice were unable to react normally to light stimuli and synchronize their rhythms.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Molecular fingerprint predicts HIV-associated dementia

Researchers have identified a molecular fingerprint unique to individuals with HIV-associated dementia (HAD), suggesting the potential development of a simple blood test for its diagnosis. The study used proteomics to analyze protein patterns in patients and found correlations between certain proteins and HAD.

Project examines early Buddhist teachings

A three-year project studies the Dhyanna of Entering into Non-Conceptuality, an 8th-century scripture considered authentic Buddha's teaching. The research aims to show similarities between Chinese and Tibetan Buddhism and how they have been interpreted differently throughout the ages.

PET-CT more accurate than PET in staging lung cancer patients

A study found that PET-CT scans were more accurate than PET scans alone in staging non-small cell lung cancer patients. The combined imaging technique correctly identified lung cancer with chest wall and vascular spread, downgrading tumor severity in 13.3% of cases.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Cities vital for new businesses, says management professor

A study by William Strange and Stuart Rosenthal found that start-up companies are strongly attracted to cities with similar companies nearby, diverse businesses, and outsourcing services. Cities play a vital role in providing new business growth and innovation for countries like Canada.

Scientists identify genetic link between cancer and aging

Researchers found that MYC binds to the WRN gene promoter, activating WRN expression and promoting cellular senescence in tumor cells. This discovery suggests a potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment by inhibiting WRN in MYC-induced tumor cells.

Connecticut chemist receives award for cleaner air technology

Dr. Pfefferle, known as the 'father of catalytic combustion,' has developed a process to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions from gas turbines. His inventions include the Microlith(r) catalytic reactor and RCL™ catalytic combustor, enhancing combustion efficiency and air quality.

Medical publishing turns on the afterburners

The medical publishing industry has seen a significant acceleration in its pace of production, driven by technological advancements and innovative strategies. This shift is expected to have a positive impact on the quality and timeliness of medical research and knowledge dissemination.

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.

Study finds direction of enzymes affects DNA repair

A new study found that repair enzymes can 'distinguish' between various positions on the DNA strand, varying in effectiveness depending on their orientation relative to the nucleosome. This discovery has significant implications for our understanding of DNA repair and its role in preventing diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's.

Brain imaging confirms that people feel pain differently

Researchers used MRI to assess brain function while participants experienced heat stimuli. People who reported higher pain levels showed increased activation in key brain areas, such as the primary somatosensory cortex and anterior cingulate cortex. This confirms the importance of self-reports in guiding pain treatment.

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.

Reducing the risk of frost damage to short-season crops

Scientists investigated how day length affects soybean flowering, finding early flowering is more active and controlled by small developing leaves or buds. The study's results could help develop cultivars adapted to short growing seasons for northern Canadian soybean producers.

News tips for the June 24 issue of Neurology

Researchers discuss new findings on HIV-associated dementia and its potential association with the presence of MDM. Additionally, studies suggest that treating post-Lyme disease with antibiotics does not provide benefits, while a possible link is found between insulin and Alzheimer's disease risk factors.

123 Altropane® SPECT shows potential as diagnostic tool for ADHD

A recent study suggests that I-123 Altropane SPECT imaging can detect dopamine deficiency in patients with drug-naïve ADHD. The study's results indicate a higher binding ratio of the radiopharmaceutical to dopamine transporters in ADHD patients, supporting the idea of a potential diagnostic tool.

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.

Dr. Nora D. Volkow to receive Aebersold Award

Dr. Nora D. Volkow, the first woman to lead NIDA, has made significant contributions to understanding addiction through imaging studies. Her extensive publication record and awards recognize her as a leading expert in the field of drug addiction research.

Reading disabilities can develop quite suddenly after the primary grades

Researchers found that late-identified reading deficits can manifest differently among students, with some having difficulty comprehending text or identifying printed words. The study highlights the need for schools to use varied assessments and tailored intervention programs to address individual students' strengths and weaknesses.

Hot proteins may sharpen DNA tests; help bioprocessing

Researchers have discovered that heat shock proteins from deep ocean vent microbes can increase the sensitivity of DNA tests by up to ten times. These unique proteins also enable genetically modified bacteria to survive at higher temperatures.

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.

Barry Siegel to receive de Hevesy Pioneer Award

Dr. Barry Siegel is being recognized for his pioneering work in nuclear medicine, including the use of positron emission tomography (PET) in cancer detection and tumor staging. With over 220 publications to his credit, Dr. Siegel's contributions have significantly impacted the field of nuclear medicine.

Extra checks for breast cancer in pregnancy needed

Pregnant women should undergo thorough breast examinations to detect breast cancer, as diagnosis is often delayed due to hormonal changes. Ultrasonography is the best method for detecting cancerous lumps during pregnancy.

'Initiative fatigue' puts teachers off new methods

A recent study found that UK teachers are struggling to implement new teaching methods due to a lack of clear guidance. The research suggests that most teachers ask easy questions rather than open-ended ones to prompt classroom discussion, resulting in limited pupil engagement.

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.

New approach offers hope to patients with rectal cancer

Researchers have developed a new treatment strategy that combines chemo-radiation and surgery to prevent recurrence of rectal cancer. The study, conducted by Professor Andres Cervantes' team, demonstrated excellent results with no local relapse after two years.

Bioinformatics/GIS program aim is to protect chimpanzees

The Virginia Tech program aims to develop improved wildlife management strategies for chimpanzee populations in east Africa. Researchers will use a multidisciplinary approach, combining data collection with information sharing and education.

Daily hormone shot helps take off pounds, research shows

Researchers at Saint Louis University found that daily injections of growth hormone helped obese patients lose an average of five pounds. The weight loss was primarily due to the reduction of body fat, particularly in the abdominal area.

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.

Researchers warn that India is on brink of Africa-like HIV/AIDS epidemic

India's HIV prevalence rate is less than 1 percent, but a looming pandemic on the horizon due to shifting demographics and changing cultural values. The researchers recommend targeted prevention programs for high-risk groups, such as prostitutes and men who have sex with men, and offer circumcision as an additional avenue of prevention.

Ovarian cancer cells killed by new drug

The European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) presented a new drug, ET743, which has shown promising results in treating advanced ovarian cancer. In a clinical trial, the drug reduced tumors in 47% of patients, with some experiencing complete responses.

Cancer could be caught before it develops

Researchers Jules Berman and Donald Henson developed a classification system for cancer precursors, identifying 568 distinct concepts with over 4700 terms. This database is designed to be fully searchable and linked to other databases, providing a potential breakthrough in early detection and treatment.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Study of dynamic systems could lead to fewer falls, smoother rides

A study on dynamic systems could lead to fewer falls and smoother rides by developing a method to predict the effects of discontinuities on stability. The research aims to create design criteria that can reduce or prevent unintended collisions, resulting in improved safety and comfort.

July 4 fireworks: Why they're brighter than ever

The evolution of fireworks is attributed to advancements in metal fuels, which produce hotter flames and more photons, resulting in brighter colors. Fine-tuning of ingredient percentages has also contributed to the improved display.

UCLA physicists create nanoscale sensor

Giovanni Zocchi's team has created a nanoscale sensor that can detect specific genetic markers in DNA or RNA molecules with high sensitivity. The sensor uses evanescent wave scattering to analyze the conformational changes caused by target molecule binding, allowing for precise detection of single molecules.

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.

Half of HIV patients choose alternative medicine

A study of 2,466 HIV-positive adults reveals that 53% use alternative medicine, often without informing their doctors. This can lead to adverse interactions with conventional treatment and increased risk of treatment failure.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Key regulatory enzyme is a molecular 'octopus'

Researchers deduced the structure of GRK2, a key regulatory enzyme that modulates G protein signaling. The three-dimensional structure reveals three distinct domains capable of performing multiple regulatory functions simultaneously.

Planners don't understand how real families live

A study of 100 working families in the UK and USA found that planners' assumptions about housing, transport, and work-life balance often clash with reality. Families often prioritize convenience over ideal living arrangements, leading to increased travel time and reliance on private transportation.

Mental disorders in postconflict communities

Postconflict psychiatric research reveals high prevalence of common mental disorders, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety disorder. Exposure to violence is a potent risk factor for various disorders, with comorbidity analyses showing complex relationships between disorders.

Neural transplantation for Parkinson’s disease: the challenge

Researchers are exploring neural transplantation as a potential treatment for Parkinson's disease, despite initial disappointing results from clinical trials. Further studies aim to improve the effectiveness of transplants and address concerns about side effects such as dyskinesias.

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.

U-M study examines age vs. menopause effects of bone health

Researchers at U-M examined the effects of aging and menopause on bone health and found that natural estrogen withdrawal after menopause causes more significant bone loss. The study suggests that hormone replacement therapy may not be necessary for all middle-aged women with regular menstrual cycles.

Pulsating chemistry

Scientists at Fritz-Haber Institute find mechanical oscillations in catalytic foil during chemical reactions, leading to precise measurement of heat created. Mathematical models and computer simulations reveal delicate interplay between thermo-chemistry and thermo-mechanics.

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.

Consumers endorse researchers' enhancements to lower-quality beef

A study by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign found that enhancement with standard levels of salt and phosphate can improve the quality of lower-grade beef. Consumers reported a preference for enhanced roasts and steaks over non-enhanced cuts, which were found to be juicier and more flavorful.

West Nile virus warning system from climate data

A new Web-based calculator will warn public health officials when and where mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus thrive or die, based on climate data. The system will help track mosquito populations' development and aging, which is crucial for predicting outbreaks.

Missing link detected in insulin mechanism

Researchers identify protein that bridges signaling and membrane movement, linking insulin's action to glucose uptake. This finding could provide clues for understanding type 2 diabetes, where muscle and fat tissues resist insulin.

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.

Radiofrequency, chemotherapy prove effective duo in destroying tumors

A new study found that combining radiofrequency ablation with chemotherapy can effectively treat larger liver tumors. The treatment, which involves using heat to destroy tumor tissue and administering a chemotherapeutic agent intravenously, resulted in a tripling of survival rates compared to those receiving no treatment.