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Science News Archive 2003 - Page 59


Page 59 of 108

Millions of Americans suffer from major depression

A recent study by Harvard Medical School found that millions of Americans suffer from major depressive episodes (MDE), with the majority being severe cases. The researchers measured the severity and duration of depression in over 9,000 Americans and found that only one in five received adequate treatment for their condition.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalJAMA·DateJun 17, 2003

Other highlights of the June 18 JNCI

Research suggests that frequent consumption of miso soup and high intake of isoflavones may lower breast cancer risk. Vitamin D analog paricalcitol also demonstrates antitumor activity against myeloid leukemia, myeloma, and colon cancer cells.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJun 17, 2003

Medication may slow progression of Alzheimer disease

Researchers discovered that patients who received Exelon before withdrawing from a study showed significantly less cognitive decline than placebo-treated patients. The findings suggest a possible effect in delaying the biological progression of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceIndiana University·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateJun 17, 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.

Hebrew University researcher studies 'reorganization' of brain in blind people

A study by Hebrew University researcher Dr. Ehud Zohary found that blind people's brains reorganize to process touch and memory, leading to superior verbal memory skills. The research opens a window into understanding cortical plasticity in brain systems, potentially leading to improved treatment for neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJun 17, 2003

Mayo Clinic finds key digestive role for 'silent killer'

Researchers found that carbon monoxide helps regulate smooth-muscle contraction in the gastrointestinal tract, enabling precise movement of food through the stomach and bowels. This discovery suggests potential clinical applications for carbon monoxide as a therapeutic agent in treating motility disorders.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2003

Sex Differences in Cardiovascular Disease

Research highlights similar risk factors for women and men, yet varying impacts on heart health. Experts discuss the role of estrogen in blood pressure regulation and cardiovascular disease prevention.

SourceSociety for Women's Health Research·DateJun 16, 2003

Millennium baby findings

The Millennium Cohort Study, funded by ESRC, follows the lives of nearly 19,000 babies born between 2000 and 2002. The study provides valuable insights into birth, baby, and parenthood topics, such as parents' ages and children's development.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateJun 16, 2003
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Simulated global environmental changes impact plant diversity

The Carnegie Institution's study found that elevated CO2 and nitrogen pollution reduced wildflower diversity, while increased water levels increased overall plant diversity. The four treatment combinations resulted in a decrease in wildflower species but an increase in grasses.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2003

Blame, not just poor economy, needed to impact voting

A study by Kevin Arceneaux found that people facing economic adversity are more likely to vote when they blame the government for economic outcomes. The opposition party must convince voters that the current administration is at fault during times of economic hardship.

SourceRice University·JournalPolitical Research Quarterly·DateJun 16, 2003

JCI table of contents, 16 June 2003

Sandra McLachlan and her team reveal that cleavage of the TSHR A subunit can induce or amplify the immune response to the TSHR, resulting in autoantibodies that stimulate thyroid hormones. This finding increases understanding of why autoantibodies arise specifically to the TSHR, leading to Graves hyperthyroidism.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 16, 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.

Inherited gene may place some at higher risk of post-traumatic injury seizures

A study published in Archives of Neurology found that patients with moderate to severe brain injuries who inherited the epsilon 4 variation of apolipoprotein E (apoE) gene were more likely to develop seizures. The finding sheds light on post-traumatic epilepsy's pathophysiology and may lead to new therapies.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateJun 16, 2003

Some 400 'fragile regions' of genome more vulnerable to evolutionary breaks

Scientists have identified 400 'fragile regions' in the human genome that are more susceptible to genetic rearrangements, which could lead to a better understanding of cancer and other diseases. The study's findings contradict previous theories on genomic breakage, suggesting that these regions are like fault lines in the genome.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2003
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.

Birds do it. Bugs do it. But why don't we?

Research by University of Michigan biologist Jianzhi Zhang found that humans lost pheromone signals after a gene duplication event around 23 million years ago. This duplication allowed for the development of color vision, making pheromones unnecessary as a channel for sexual signaling.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2003

Annals of Internal Medicine, tip sheet, June 17, 2003

A new study suggests that pneumococcal vaccination can save medical costs for individuals aged 50 to 64, particularly those at high risk of pneumococcal disease. The cost-effectiveness of vaccination is comparable to other preventive services in this age group.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 16, 2003

Transplantation tolerance: Of mice and men

A recent study by Christian Larsen and colleagues reveals that a specific threshold of memory cells is necessary to promote rejection, while CD8+ central memory cells mediate rejection. The authors suggest testing for potential cellular sensitization against donors prior to tolerance protocols to increase human transplantation success.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 16, 2003
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Some gun dealers willing to make illegal sales

A recent study by researchers at the University of California - Los Angeles found that many gun dealers are willing to sell firearms to individuals prohibited from buying them, despite federal laws. The survey revealed that 87.5% of dealers would make a sale if the firearm was identified as being for someone else.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalInjury Prevention·DateJun 16, 2003

Mothers know best about child’s smoke exposure

A study found that 85% of children in low-income families had daily exposure to secondhand smoke, with mothers reporting the highest levels. Cotinine levels in children's urine only confirmed exposure for about 90% of cases, highlighting potential limitations of testing.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateJun 16, 2003

Richland, Wash., chemist receives award for materials research

Matson's work on ultra-barrier coatings has the potential to replace glass in electronic displays, enabling flexible and cheaper alternatives for cell phones, TVs, laptops, and digital watches. The American Chemical Society's Industrial Innovation Awards recognize his contributions to commercial success and improved quality of life.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateJun 16, 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.

Neandertal facial length issue settled

Researchers found Neandertals did not have long faces, but rather average or slightly reduced facial projection compared to earlier human ancestors. Modern humans' faces are significantly shorter due to evolutionary changes.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 16, 2003

U of T scientists build a bridge for new bone

A team of University of Toronto researchers has created a biodegradable scaffold that accelerates bone healing rates by providing a building structure for bone growth. The scaffold, similar in structure to a dish sponge, eventually dissolves, eliminating the need for expensive chemicals called bone growth factors.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Biomedical Materials Research·DateJun 16, 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.

Taste testing may help identify alcoholism risk

A study found that individuals with a positive paternal history of alcoholism prefer less salty and sour solutions, indicating unique taste characteristics that may contribute to protection against alcoholism. Researchers suggest that altered taste sensitivity may also play a role in the development of alcoholism risk.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateJun 15, 2003

At last: Just three cell types detect light in the eye

A team of international researchers led by Johns Hopkins scientists has discovered that the eye's ability to detect light is carried out by just three cell types: rods, cones, and melanopsin-producing cells. This finding resolves years of controversy and sheds new light on the eye's non-visual functions.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature·DateJun 15, 2003

Genetic clue links selenium to breast cancer prevention

A study by University of Illinois Chicago nutrition scientists reveals a potential genetic link between selenium and breast cancer prevention. The research identifies specific versions of a gene that may require more selenium in the diet for cancer-preventive benefits.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalCancer Research·DateJun 15, 2003

UCSD researchers identify gene involved in bipolar disorder

A mutation in the GRK3 gene, specifically in the promoter region, is linked to bipolar disorder in up to 10% of cases. The study suggests that this mutation causes individuals to become hypersensitive to dopamine, leading to mood extremes characteristic of the disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJun 15, 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.

Imaging lithium with an electron microscope

For the first time, researchers have used a transmission electron microscope to image lithium atoms, capturing an arrangement of lithium ions among cobalt and oxygen atoms in the compound lithium cobalt oxide. The One Angstrom Microscope achieved a resolution as high as 0.78 angstrom.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 15, 2003

Research breakthrough identifies 291 genes associated with asthma

Research breakthrough identifies 291 genes associated with asthma, opening up new avenues for treatment and diagnostic development. The study focused on the arginase pathway, which regulates critical processes involved in allergic reactions.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 15, 2003

Nicotine-patch treatment works for smokers with long-term sobriety

A study published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research found that nicotine replacement therapy works as well for smokers with long-term sobriety as it does for smokers without a history of alcoholism. In fact, most smokers with past alcoholism (85%) can quit smoking without difficulty and benefit from nicotine-patch treatment.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateJun 15, 2003
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.

Enzyme may play unexpected role in asthma

Researchers identified nearly 300 asthma signature genes involved in pathogenesis, including arginase, which triggers asthmatic symptoms. The discovery could lead to targeted treatments for individual patients.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateJun 15, 2003

Alcohol facilitates aggression among those who express anger outwardly

Researchers found that alcohol increases the likelihood of aggressive behavior in individuals who tend to express their anger outwardly, such as through verbal or physical aggression. This association is significant and highlights the importance of understanding emotions and regulation in relation to drinking and aggressive behavior.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateJun 15, 2003

Pregnant women in developing countries more prone to abuse

A study found that an estimated 18-67% of women in developing countries report being physically abused during pregnancy. Low socioeconomic status and lack of education are common risk factors for domestic violence.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalEuropean Journal of Public Health·DateJun 13, 2003

A rare find

Scott Oliver has been awarded a $500,000 NSF career grant to develop a new class of cationic microporous inorganic materials with unprecedented potential applications. These materials can trap anionic pollutants and are stable under high temperatures or acidic/basic conditions.

SourceBinghamton University·DateJun 13, 2003
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.

Remote sub can patrol Shores. Sound Fishy? It is, but not like you think.

Researchers have developed an AI system that can recognize various marine species, including fish and potential threats. The system, called Fetch2, has successfully identified two species - jacks and sharks - using side scan sonar data and neural networks, paving the way for autonomous surveillance of coastlines and harbors.

SourceCollege of William and Mary·JournalThe New Scientist·DateJun 13, 2003

Studies could lead to next-generation cancer drugs

Susan Bane's research focuses on understanding how anticancer drugs like Taxol interact with tubulin at the molecular level. The study of these interactions could pave the way for the development of more effective next-generation cancer drugs, potentially with improved administration and reduced resistance.

SourceBinghamton University·DateJun 13, 2003

A new view of the crayfish brain

Researchers at Emory University Health Sciences Center have developed a new MRI technique using manganese-enhanced imaging to study the neural circuitry of aggression in crayfish. This breakthrough enables scientists to analyze entire patterns of brain activation, providing insights into complex social behaviors.

SourceEmory University Health Sciences Center·DateJun 13, 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.

Physicians not 'easy marks' for drug sales reps, argues O.R. study

A study by Columbia University and the University of Washington found that pharmaceutical sales reps have modest to very small influence on prescribing behavior. In contrast, distributing drug samples plays a more positive role in contrasting medications and helping manufacturers maintain market share.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·DateJun 13, 2003

Using frequency waves to measure moisture in soil

Researchers have developed a numerical model for simulating the waveform in soil, improving field measurements of water content. The new method uses Time Domain Reflectometry and takes into account various factors such as soil types, bulk density, and probe parameters.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalSoil Science Society of America Journal·DateJun 13, 2003

SARS death rate lower in countries responding aggressively to initial outbreak

Researchers analyzed data from the World Health Organization and found that countries with quicker control measures had lower fatality rates and slower epidemics. The study suggests that better control measures, such as rapid hospitalization and isolation of cases, are more effective than differences in infectivity or virulence.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateJun 12, 2003

'Obesity is a family illness': Research offers clues on how to stop the cycle

A study by Saint Louis University School of Public Health found that parents who received nutrition information ate more fruits and vegetables, consumed less fat, and had a greater impact on their children's health. The High 5, Low Fat Program aims to deliver consistent messages to young families, promoting healthy eating habits.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateJun 12, 2003
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.

Natural selection's fingerprint identified on fruit fly evolution

Researchers have identified a gene, Nup 96, that plays a crucial role in preventing the reproduction of hybrid fruit fly species, suggesting natural selection as the driving force behind their divergence. The study provides unprecedented insight into speciation and offers new avenues for understanding the evolution of genetic traits.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature·DateJun 12, 2003

NHGRI study may help scientists develop safer methods for gene therapy

Scientists have identified a preference for insertion at the beginning of genes and near actively expressed genes, which may explain why gene therapy patients developed leukemia. The discovery could lead to improved gene therapy techniques that insert genes in less risky areas.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalScience·DateJun 12, 2003

IV infustions of human umbilical cord blood stem cells benefit rodents with ALS, spinal cord injury

Researchers found that intravenous infusions of human umbilical cord blood stem cells delayed ALS disease progression by at least two to three weeks and improved survival in mice. The cells also circulated to organs outside the central nervous system, suggesting an immune-protective mechanism.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalJournal of Hematotherapy & Stem Cell Research·DateJun 12, 2003
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.

Breakthrough 'interface tuning' is macro step for microelectronics

Researchers at NC State and Oak Ridge National Laboratory have successfully tuned the atomic-level zone between substances, opening the way for smaller, faster and smarter computers. By manipulating the electronic dipole charge at the interface, they've found a way to overcome the limitations of Schottky barriers.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience·DateJun 12, 2003

Blood test could detect heart attack early

A new blood test can detect heart attacks in just five minutes with a 99% accuracy rate, improving diagnosis and treatment outcomes. The test identifies two proteins associated with the earliest stages of a heart attack, reducing unnecessary hospital stays.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Proteome Research·DateJun 12, 2003

QuikClot (TM) will be made available to public

Developed by Z-Medica Corporation and funded by the Office of Naval Research, QuikClot has been proven effective in treating severe arterial hemorrhage with a high success rate. The product is set to be released for consumer use this summer and may also help individuals with specific bleeding disorders.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateJun 12, 2003

Study suggests difference between female and male sexuality

A new Northwestern University study suggests a fundamental difference in men's and women's brains and arousal patterns. Women exhibit a bisexual arousal pattern, responding equally to both male and female erotica, unlike men who respond consistently with their sexual orientations.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 12, 2003
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.