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Science News for February 13, 2003


High-density storage of nuclear waste heightens terrorism risks

Researchers found that high-density storage systems used at nuclear power plants could unleash contamination worse than Chernobyl if attacked. The study recommends returning water tanks to low-density configurations and building onsite storage facilities to reduce the risk of fire and radiation release.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience and Global Security·DateFeb 13, 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.

Gambling + alcohol is a losing proposition

Research highlights the strong association between gambling disorders (GDs) and alcohol use disorders (AUDs), suggesting therapy should focus on breaking unconscious associations between winning and drinking. Co-therapy may lead to better outcomes for GDs, particularly among those with AUDs.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateFeb 13, 2003

Asteroids, panic and planning

Expert Clarke emphasizes the importance of communication, infrastructure development, and international cooperation in preparing for asteroid impacts. He highlights the need for countries to have comprehensive civil defense plans and to prioritize population relocation and geographical redevelopment.

SourceRutgers University·DateFeb 13, 2003

Health inequities within poor communities in less-developed countries

A study conducted in Tanzania found that poorer families are less likely to seek medical care for their children, resulting in a higher prevalence of childhood illnesses and lower treatment rates. The findings highlight the need for targeted health programs to address health inequities in low-income communities.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 13, 2003

Vaccine technique shows potential against common form of lung cancer

A new vaccine technique has shown promise in boosting the natural immune response to tumors in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer. The vaccine was found to be non-toxic and well-tolerated, with some patients remaining disease-free for over three years after vaccination.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateFeb 13, 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.

The frontier of microelectronics: Building nano-machines, part by part

Leading scientists in nanotechnology are discussing recent developments in microelectronics, including the creation of nanocomputers and millirobots. These tiny machines have the potential to control tiny devices and understand the mechanics of how to wire them up.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateFeb 13, 2003

Just a minute: Bystanders may identify stroke symptoms in 60 seconds

Researchers found that bystanders correctly administered the Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale (CPSS) directions 96% of the time, detecting key symptoms like arm weakness and slurred speech. This ability can allow untrained adults to act as 'eyes and ears' for emergency dispatchers, potentially improving stroke diagnosis and treatment.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 13, 2003

A gene for sleepwalking

Researchers found a significant association between the DQB1_05 and _04 alleles and sleepwalking disorder, suggesting that these genes play a role in disorders of motor control during sleep. The study identified Ser74 as a key genetic marker for sleepwalking, providing new insights into its underlying mechanisms.

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateFeb 13, 2003

Ibuprofen could reduce cardioprotective effect of aspirin

Researchers found that combining ibuprofen with aspirin increased the risk of death from any cause and cardiovascular disease by 75% and 200%, respectively. Patients taking both medications also had a higher risk of bleeding from stomach ulcers.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 13, 2003
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Alcohol consumption and intimate partner violence

Research highlights the association between drinking and physical aggression, finding that heavy drinking increases the risk of domestic violence by eight times. Effective prevention and treatment interventions require understanding the link between alcohol and IPV, particularly among minority groups.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateFeb 13, 2003

An origin of new world agriculture in coastal Ecuador

Researchers at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute have discovered evidence of early domestication of wild squash varieties in coastal Ecuador dating back to around 12,000 years ago. The phytoliths found in these ancient fruits suggest a significant shift towards more productive agricultural practices among hunter-gatherers.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalScience·DateFeb 13, 2003

Genetics, genes and intelligence

A genetic study found a new gene variant associated with general intelligence, located within the cathepsin D (CTSD) gene. The study, which followed 767 healthy adults over 15 years, discovered that a specific functional transition in exon 2 of CTSD increased cognitive decline.

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateFeb 13, 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.

Listen up! Infrasound is talking

Scientists are exploring the potential of infrasound pulses to detect natural disasters such as tornadoes and volcanic eruptions. Infrasound pulses can also be used to monitor and forecast volcanic eruptions, potentially providing valuable warnings for communities at risk.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateFeb 13, 2003

How the nose knows a rose-or a mate

A new study reveals that the human brain can distinguish between thousands of chemicals using a 'fingerprint' pattern, while another discovery sheds light on pheromone-detecting neurons in mice that identify potential mates and social status. These findings may also aid in understanding animal communication and behavior.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 13, 2003

Tropical deforestation and global warming

Researchers challenge a recent study's estimate of greenhouse gas emissions from tropical deforestation, citing seven serious errors that lead to a major underestimate. The Achard study failed to account for drier forests, biomass, and the effects of methane and nitrous oxide.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalScience·DateFeb 13, 2003

Estrogen and personality in women

Researchers investigated a repeat polymorphism in the estrogen receptor alpha gene and found associations with neuroticism, psychoticism, and non-conformity. The study suggests that genetic variations in this gene may contribute to specific components of personality.

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateFeb 13, 2003
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Why do schizophrenics smoke?

Research suggests that the mammalian ventral tegmental area plays a critical role in mediating both rewarding and aversive properties of nicotine. Blockade of mesolimbic dopamine signaling induced by neuroleptic medications may selectively block the aversive effects of nicotine, increasing vulnerability to its addictive properties.

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateFeb 13, 2003

Researchers discover how leukaemia virus spreads through the body

Scientists at Imperial College London have discovered a unique method of viral transmission by the HTLV-1 leukaemia virus. The virus infects cells and transfers itself to other cells without releasing particles, evading the immune system and paving the way for potential new treatments.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience·DateFeb 13, 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.

Tracking the long-term functioning of adolescents with alcohol problems

Researcher Tammy Chung highlights findings from four studies tracking adolescents with alcohol problems after treatment. These studies found that at least half of treated teens showed reductions in alcohol use and problems, while some continued to experience issues through young adulthood.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateFeb 13, 2003

Teen girls with common hormonal disorder more concerned about fertility than peers

A new study found that teenage girls with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are significantly more worried about their future fertility compared to healthy age-mates. The study also revealed that PCOS patients have lower scores in quality of life questionnaire categories, particularly self-esteem and mental health.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology·DateFeb 13, 2003

Brain banks are a powerful tool for alcohol research

Key findings from brain bank research highlight the importance of standardized protocols and consideration of quality-related factors. The use of brain banks has led to a better understanding of alcohol-induced brain shrinkage, with potential implications for prevention and reversal of this condition.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateFeb 13, 2003

AAAS president calls to restore American health system

The American health system faces multiple crises, including soaring premiums and personnel shortages. Bloom suggests using socially focused research, such as the Whitehall Study, to address these issues and promote better health outcomes.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·DateFeb 13, 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.

European research at AAAS meeting

The European Commission will present its research policy and funding activities at the AAAS meeting, aiming to create a European Research Area (ERA) with better coordination and cooperation. The EU's goal is to boost competitiveness and improve citizens' quality of life through significant resources mobilized via the Framework program.

SourceEuropean Commission's Research Directorate-General·DateFeb 13, 2003

Researchers record first 'pheromone images' in brains of mice

The study shows that pheromones trigger unique neural excitation patterns in the brain, providing vital information about sex discrimination and social behavior. Individual neurons respond to specific animals based on their genetic identity, suggesting a complex pheromonal system.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalScience·DateFeb 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.

VA heart attack care for mentally ill shows little disparity

Researchers analyzed VA records of 4,340 patients who received heart attack care between 1994-1995. Patients with mental illness had a slightly lower rate of diagnostic angiography, but no significant difference in survival rates for 90 days after the heart attack.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalHealth Services Research·DateFeb 13, 2003

Climate affects recent crop yield gains

A recent study found that gradual temperature increases cause significant decreases in crop productivity for corn and soybeans. Climate is identified as a crucial factor in crop yield trends, contradicting previous assumptions. The study's unique approach separates the effects of climate and technology on yield trends.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·DateFeb 13, 2003