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Science News for August 11, 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

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
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.

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

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
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.

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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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
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.

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