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Science News for December 11, 2003


UC Davis students try weightless science

A team of UC Davis students conducted experiments on formation of new materials by combustion in an electric field using NASA's 'Vomit Comet' aircraft. The low-gravity environment enhanced the effect of the electric field, creating unique properties in new materials.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateDec 11, 2003

Online bladder cancer information often outdated

A study found that nearly one-third of online bladder cancer information is outdated and inaccurate, with limited information on treatment options and follow-up care. The researchers recommend using reliable sources such as the National Cancer Institute and MEDLINEplus for accurate information.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe Journal of Urology·DateDec 11, 2003

Nature and nurture in temperament

A study found that NS temperament in adulthood was predicted by an interaction between the DRD4 gene polymorphism and a hostile childhood rearing environment. Participants with certain genetic variants and adverse childhood experiences had a higher risk of exhibiting high novelty seeking scores.

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateDec 11, 2003

Avoid bad memories: Targeting genes and drugs

Researchers discovered that stress can alter gene expression, leading to enhanced fear memory and long-term potentiation. By using a new gene-based 'antisense' drug, they successfully prevented these changes, attenuating the elevated freezing response and paving the way for novel treatments.

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateDec 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.

NIH consensus panel confirms effectiveness of total knee replacement

The NIH consensus panel confirms the effectiveness of total knee replacement surgery, highlighting the importance of surgeon volume and proper prosthesis alignment to minimize long-term complications. Computer navigation technology may eventually reduce malalignment risks but is currently unproven and costly.

SourceNIH/Office of the Director·DateDec 11, 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.

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.

Reading ability and ADHD affected by same genes

A genome-wide investigation found that reading ability in individuals with ADHD shares common genetic variants with the condition, but also has distinct genetic underpinnings. The study identified four chromosomal regions associated with reading ability, overlapping previously identified areas for ADHD and reading disorder.

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateDec 11, 2003

Map of genes in plant root yields new tool for exploring tissue development

Researchers at Duke University have developed a new technique to map the activity of thousands of genes in the roots of Arabidopsis plants, offering insights into how complex tissues develop from a single cell. The study reveals that nearly half of all expressed genes in the root show tissue-specific expression.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·DateDec 11, 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.

Changes needed to reduce migrant farm worker exposure to pesticides

A 10-year study by Wake Forest researchers highlights the need for better safety measures to protect migrant farm workers and their families from pesticide exposure. Changes are needed in housing, hygiene procedures, and pesticide application to reduce health risks.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 11, 2003

Hebrew University, German and British researchers develop means to help stress sufferers

Scientists at the Hebrew University and Max Planck Institute have discovered a gene-based approach to suppressing stress-induced reactions. They developed an 'antisense' agent that neutralizes the production of modified proteins, preventing extreme fright or immobilizing shock reactions associated with traumatic memories.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateDec 11, 2003

New method of identifying and isolating stem cells developed

A new system has been developed to identify and isolate stem cells, providing a key to understanding regenerative medicine. The discovery offers promise for treating skin injuries, hair loss, and other conditions by identifying stem cells that can create tissue as needed.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalScience·DateDec 11, 2003

Wanted: Help through the jungle of hospital care

The Lancet editorial highlights the need for improved patient and family support in hospitals, citing a tragic case of a chronically ill child's experience. The authors propose increasing liaison staff to at least two per ward to provide emotional wellbeing support and reduce stories like Michaela's in the medical community.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 11, 2003
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Electrical stimulation in patients with paralysis and spinal cord injury

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation significantly improves tissue health and enhances the wellbeing and independence of veterans with spinal cord injuries. Additionally, orthoses selection can improve clinical outcomes following cervical injury, while a home exercise program can improve upper-body endurance in wheelchair users.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalThe Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development·DateDec 11, 2003

Chemical gradient steers nerve growth in spinal cord

Researchers discovered a guidance mechanism that regulates nerve cell growth up and down the spinal cord. This discovery may help restore function to people with paralyzing spinal cord injuries by guiding damaged axons towards the brain.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalScience·DateDec 11, 2003

Early promise for treatment of Ebola

Researchers have discovered a potential treatment for Ebola, showing a 33% survival rate among treated macaques. The study found that inhibiting blood coagulation pathways prolonged survival time and improved health outcomes.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 11, 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.

Scientists discover connection between obesity and diabetes

A new study finds that obese mice require the MSH hormone to develop diabetes, increasing resistance to insulin. Researchers believe this may lead to more effective preventive treatments for Type 2 Diabetes.

SourceEleanor Roosevelt Institute·JournalJournal of Endocrinology and Metabolism·DateDec 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.

Fishing gear fallout

Researchers found that bottom gears like dredges and trawls inflict the most harm on habitats and marine vertebrates. The team suggests banning or limiting these gears in sensitive areas.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateDec 11, 2003

Drug shows promise for Ebola virus treatment in primates

A new drug, rNAPC2, has shown promising results in treating Ebola by slowing coagulopathy and death in primates. The treatment targets the disease process rather than replicating the virus, offering a potential breakthrough in combating the deadly disease.

SourceUS Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 11, 2003

School controversy explored

The book examines how parental preferences influence the mix and quality of secondary schools, offering practical recommendations for policies on social justice and school improvement. It's based on a comprehensive analysis of figures from all schools in England and Wales over 13 years.

SourceCardiff University·DateDec 11, 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.

Scientists identify molecular step that causes intoxication

Researchers discovered that a single gene and brain protein are responsible for alcohol's intoxicating effects, leading to neural depression and uncoordinated movement. The finding suggests that targeting this channel could lead to new treatments for alcohol addiction.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCell·DateDec 11, 2003

New risk factor for heart disease identified

A new study has identified a link between the size of apolipoprotein(a), a protein component of low-density lipoprotein, and an increased risk of heart disease in overweight individuals. The research suggests that analyzing apolipoprotein(a) size may provide a reliable way to discriminate between those at high risk and those without.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Cardiovascular Disorders·DateDec 11, 2003

With nature's help, a better vision system for smart weapons

The University of Florida researchers have created photon sieves for visible light, which can sharpen the focus quality of a beam and reduce the amount of light that gets through a metal plate. This technology has the potential to change the way we think about optics and enable more life-like qualities in systems.

SourceUniversity of Florida·DateDec 11, 2003