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Science News Archive December 2003


Page 8 of 9

The evolving management of migraine

The American Medical Association highlights the growing importance of migraine prevention, which can reduce attack frequency and severity. Preventive therapy has shown dramatic results in patients transitioning from acute to combination acute and preventive therapy.

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.

Regulatory T cells keep graft-versus-host disease in check

Researchers have developed a protocol to expand regulatory T cells ex vivo, which can induce tolerance to donor tissue and control graft-versus-host disease. This approach may lead to the development of new clinical trials using CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells.

Yeast helps researchers better understand Parkinson's mystery

Researchers used baker's yeast to model Parkinson's disease, showing how a small amount of alpha-synuclein protein can cause deadly clusters. The study may lead to improved quality-control mechanisms in cells that normally dispose of misfolded proteins.

New understanding of insulin's complexities needed to conquer diabetes

Understanding insulin-regulatory pathways is crucial to identifying health-enhancing and disease-endangering manipulations. Research has identified components of key insulin-controlled signaling pathways, including IRS1 and IRS2, which regulate body growth, glucose homeostasis, and female fertility.

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.

Animal model shows early promise for SARS vaccine

A new form of coronavirus was genetically altered to resemble parts of the SARS virus, then injected into rhesus macaques. The results showed strong immune responses against SARS in all immunized animals, suggesting a potential protective vaccine.

Changing one gene launches new fly species

Researchers alter a single gene in fruit flies to adapt them to different environments, resulting in distinct pheromones that influence mating behavior. The change leads to potential sexual isolation, a crucial step in the emergence of a new species.

Protein that predicts tamoxifen resistance is identified

Breast cancer tumors that become resistant to tamoxifen over-produce a protein called MTA-1, which can be used to predict treatment outcomes and guide therapy selection. Testing for MTA-1 prior to treatment may help devise more aggressive strategies to combat breast cancer.

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.

HPV testing could be future strategy for primary screening for cervical cancer

The HART study found HPV testing was more sensitive than cytology for detecting pre-malignant cells, but less specific. Surveillance at 12 months was as effective as immediate colposcopy for women with minimal abnormalities. This approach could improve detection rates of cervical cancer without increasing colposcopy referrals.

New fossils from Ethiopia open a window on Africa's 'missing years'

A new discovery of fossil mammals in Ethiopia's highlands sheds light on the evolution of African mammals during a long-standing gap in scientists' understanding. The findings, reported in Nature, show that mammals continued to evolve and produce new species on the isolated continent of Afro-Arabia.

Surgery without radiation inadequate for DCIS, study reveals

A new study at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute finds that surgery alone is not sufficient to treat DCIS, a common type of breast lesion. Recurrence rates were higher than expected, with 13 patients experiencing repeated DCIS lesions and four diagnosed with invasive breast cancer.

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.

The dopamine receptor D1 gene and ADHD: A piece of the genetic puzzle?

A recent genetic study found a strong association between the dopamine receptor D1 gene and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The study suggests that this gene variant may increase the risk of developing inattentive symptoms of ADHD. Further research is needed to confirm these findings, but the discovery provides new ins...

Altered cyclin E protein leads to genetic instability in breast cancer

A study found that patients with high levels of low molecular weight cyclin E have aggressive, invasive breast cancer, and the protein may be a better predictor of patient outcome than current markers. This altered form of cyclin E can induce genetic instability, making tumors unresponsive to treatment.

Students get insider's view of Earth

A University of Michigan professor is developing new computer animations to help students better understand the Earth's structure and internal processes. His approach complements existing techniques, allowing students to progress from simpler models to more complex representations.

Breast conserving therapy offers good outcome if criteria are met

A study of 362 patients has shown that breast conservation after neoadjuvant chemotherapy is a safe and effective alternative to mastectomy for many patients. The key to success lies in careful patient selection and coordination among treatment specialists, with low rates of local-regional recurrence reported.

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.

Forensic radiology makes virtual autopsy a reality

The virtual autopsy combines CT and MR imaging to provide detailed information about trauma injuries and soft tissue. This technology can also be used in situations where traditional autopsy is not feasible due to religious or family objections.

Origin of multiple myeloma found in rare stem cell

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered a rare stem cell in multiple myeloma that gives rise to malignant bone marrow plasma cells. Current treatments may not be effective against this errant stem cell, leading scientists to explore dual-therapy approaches to target both the visible and root causes of the disease.

Estrogen promotes gender differences in brain's response to stress

Research suggests that high levels of estrogen can enhance the stress response, leading to greater stress-related cognitive impairments in females. This disparity is consistent with reports of higher prevalence of stress-related disorders in women, particularly during child-bearing years.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Aging: The continuous process from birth to death

Aging impacts bone geometry, vertebral structural properties, and the mechanical effects of caloric restriction. It also alters cerebral artery tone, intracellular Ca2+ concentration, and endothelial-dependent vasodilation, potentially leading to age-related changes in skeletal muscle blood flow.

Mercury in ocean fish may come from natural sources, not pollution

A recent study found no change in methylmercury levels in yellowfin tuna over a 27-year period, suggesting that high mercury levels in these fish may not be caused by pollution. The research suggests that natural sources, such as hydrothermal vents and deep ocean sediments, could be responsible for the mercury accumulation.

Outpatient procedure shrinks benign breast lumps

A new procedure using cryotherapy has been shown to effectively reduce the size of benign breast lumps by an average of 73% without significant complications. Patients report satisfactory cosmetic results and a high level of patient acceptance for this non-invasive 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.

New technology enhances lung cancer detection

The University Hospitals of Cleveland is using GE's RapidScreen Digital to improve lung cancer detection rates. The CAD system analyzes digital x-ray data and draws circles around suspicious regions, focusing radiologists on potential abnormalities.

New catalyst could help diesels meet NOx deadlines

Developed at Argonne National Laboratory, the new catalyst is one of a family of related catalysts that also shows promise for reducing NOx emissions. It converts NOx into nitrogen, making it a safer and more energy-efficient alternative to current standards.

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.

Patients stop meds when benefit changes

A study by Harvard Medical School found that employees treated for chronic illnesses stop taking necessary medications when benefit changes occur, particularly with substantial co-payment increases. Employers who implemented larger co-payment hikes saw higher rates of medication non-adherence and changes in medication regimens.

'Musical fruit' rich source of healthy antioxidants; black beans highest

A study by researchers at the University of Guelph found that black beans have the highest antioxidant activity among common varieties of dry beans. The levels of anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant, were 10 times higher in black beans compared to oranges and similar to those found in grapes, apples, and cranberries.

Radiation treatment is an option for elderly prostate cancer patients

A study of 33 elderly men with advanced prostate cancer found that external beam radiation therapy was well-tolerated and effective in keeping the cancer at bay. The patients experienced no unusual interruptions in treatment due to illness from radiation, and many remained alive and disease-free for several years.

Can EPO prevent loss of brain function in schizophrenia?

A new study explores the potential of erythropoietin (EPO) as a neuroprotective agent for schizophrenia. EPO was found to penetrate the blood-brain barrier and enhance cognitive functioning in patients with schizophrenia. The results suggest that EPO may be a promising compound for preventing loss of brain function in this disease.

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.

Nicotine patch may alleviate 'senior moments'

A small sample of seniors showed significant improvement in decision times, attention focus, and self-reported memories after four weeks of nicotine treatment. The findings suggest that nicotine patches could alleviate 'senior moments' in individuals with mild cognitive impairment.

Utah's redrock may have changed global climate

Researchers found evidence suggesting that the Navajo Sandstone in Utah may have been a large hydrocarbon reservoir, releasing bleaching gas into the atmosphere. The study suggests that this release could have influenced Earth's ancient climate and had significant implications for global carbon fluxes.

Anorexia may cause emphysema, study suggests

Researchers used CT scans to analyze lung tissue in anorexic patients and found structural changes that differ from those in healthy individuals. The findings suggest early therapy is crucial for patients with anorexia to avoid permanent damage to the lungs.

Social behavior among monkeys may be more nature than nurture

A recent study by Dario Maestripieri found that young monkeys reared by a mother other than their own exhibit the aggressive or friendly behavior of their birth mothers, rather than foster mothers. This suggests that inherited behavioral predispositions may play a more important role in shaping social behavior in primates.

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.

Freezing technique kills majority of small malignant breast cancers

A new cryoablation technique has shown promising results in killing most small malignant breast cancers, with seven out of nine patients experiencing complete tumor necrosis. The technique also showed no cosmetic changes to the breast's appearance and may be a viable option for women with early-stage disease.

Univ. of Mich. researchers reduce interference from microwave ovens

A research team at the University of Michigan has discovered a way to disrupt the magnetic field of microwave ovens, reducing interference with nearby electrical devices. This breakthrough could have significant impacts on fields such as radar, deep-space exploration, and cancer treatment.

New computerized tool predicts chance of breast cancer's spread

A new nomogram developed by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center accurately predicts the likelihood of axillary lymph node metastasis in breast cancer patients. The model considers various pathological factors, including tumor size and type, estrogen-receptor status, and detection methods.

Nutrient-poor oceans generate their food 'hot spots'

Researchers found that nutrient-poor ocean areas have 'hot spots' of high chlorophyll concentrations, likely due to concentrated floating organic particles. This phenomenon improves our understanding of marine ecosystem processes and has significant applications for fishing and tuna stock management.

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.

Timing of IQ test can be a life or death matter

A recent study found that IQ tests taken at different times can result in vastly different diagnoses, with potential consequences for life or death sentences. The 'Flynn effect' causes IQ scores to rise over time, making it essential to reset the test every 15-20 years.

UCLA study sheds new light on island evolution

A recent UCLA study found that Caribbean island lizards share genetic material due to ocean currents, which carry them from one island to another. This challenges the long-held assumption that species on separate islands evolve independently.

Tamoxifen's effectiveness may be compromised by hot flash drug

Researchers discovered a new metabolite, endoxifen, which is present in higher concentrations than previously thought and varies with genetic composition. This finding suggests that tamoxifen's effectiveness may be influenced by individual differences in metabolism.

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.

Doppler ultrasound predicts risk of miscarriage

The study found that 40% of miscarriages can be attributed to embryonic congestive heart failure, which can be identified using Doppler technology. The condition is characterized by increased free amniotic fluid and depressed myocardial contractility.

All sides are not created equal as babies process speech

Researchers used fMRI to study infants with documented brain injury and found early evidence of left-hemisphere-dominant activation patterns during speech processing. This challenges the long-held assumption that language lateralization is progressive until puberty, instead suggesting a more complex process.

Experts debate the future of nanotechnology

Experts K. Eric Drexler and Richard E. Smalley disagree on the possibility of molecular assemblers, devices that can precisely manipulate atoms and molecules. Drexler proposes guiding chemical synthesis with reactive molecules, while Smalley questions the feasibility of such devices.

Self-management improves course of low back pain

A self-management program improved mental and physical functioning in low-income adults with low back pain. The study, funded by the NIH and VA, showed empowering individuals to deal with their pain through exercise and behavior changes significantly reduced symptoms.

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.

Other highlights in the December 3 issue of JNCI

Researchers found that calcium supplements reduced the risk of colorectal cancer recurrence only among individuals with baseline vitamin D levels above the median. Serum vitamin D levels were also associated with reduced adenoma recurrence among individuals taking calcium supplements.

Materials could make for super LEDs, solar cells, computer chips

Researchers at Ohio State University have created hybrid materials that are virtually defect-free, paving the way for ultra-efficient electronics, solar cells and LEDs. The new technology could lead to faster, less expensive computer chips and bridge the gap between traditional silicon and light-related technologies.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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