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Science News Archive January 2003


Page 4 of 8

Mouse model links alcohol intake to marijuana-like brain compounds

Researchers found a link between alcohol intake and endocannabinoid-like brain compounds in mice, suggesting a potential target for medication development. The study's findings parallel observations in humans, with age-dependent decline in alcohol preference and reduced CB1 receptor signaling.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

New technique gets the red out of digital photographs

A researcher at the University of Toronto has developed a method to automatically remove the unsightly scarlet spots, known as red-eye, from digital images. The software isolates the reddened areas of the eyes and replaces them with natural eye color, providing a convenient solution for consumers.

Annals of Internal Medicine, tip sheet, January 21, 2003

A study on breast cancer treatment found that many women do not receive adjuvant chemotherapy as recommended, with age being a significant factor. In contrast, women with known heart disease are at high risk of future heart events but often lack preventive treatments, highlighting the need for better care coordination.

Supply and demand and illicit drugs

A recent Canadian Medical Association Journal investigation found that a massive heroin seizure had no impact on drug prices or overdose rates. Heroin prices actually decreased after the shipment was intercepted, raising questions about the effectiveness of supply-side interventions in controlling Canada's illicit drug epidemic.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Shaken baby syndrome in Canada

A study of Canadian children with shaken baby syndrome found nearly 20% died, 55% suffered lasting neurologic injuries, and 65% experienced visual impairment. The authors estimate at least 40 cases occur annually, calling for further research on prevention strategies.

Early-warning procedure can help more melanoma patients than previously thought

A new study reveals that sentinel lymph node mapping can be safely performed on patients with melanoma in the delicate head and neck area, allowing for early detection of cancer spread. The technique has been shown to accurately stage patients and identify those who need further treatment, potentially improving survival rates.

Cherokee literature still affected by history of removal

A University of Toronto researcher is studying how the Cherokee people responded to forced removal, with a focus on accommodationist writers and resistant voices. His book aims to acknowledge the history of removal and its impact on Cherokee literature.

Cancer squeezes through the gaps

Researchers found that cancer cells can migrate through protein matrices by reverting to a more rounded shape, allowing them to continue moving even when inhibitors are present. This 'salvage' pathway could be targeted by new drugs to combat cancer spread.

New antibody library speeds search for new detection tools

A new antibody library developed by PNNL scientists can identify antibodies in days, reducing labor costs and improving the design of medical treatments. The library, which contains 1 billion human antibodies, uses a yeast surface display method to quickly screen for useful antibodies.

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.

Researchers achieve germline transmission of 'gene knockdown' in mice

Scientists have achieved germline transmission of 'gene knockdown' in mice by using genetic engineering to create mouse embryonic stem cells targeted with RNAi. This enables the manipulation of gene activity in specific tissues and allows for switching on and off at any time during development or adulthood.

Meanwhile, back to barnacles...

The US Navy is developing new antifouling hull coatings inspired by nature, using complex nanometer-scale patterns to prevent barnacles from attaching. These coatings have shown exceptional low settlement rates in early experiments, promising a reduction in fuel costs and frequent cleaning needs for Navy ships.

UAF Institute of Arctic Biology researcher featured in Science

UAF Institute of Arctic Biology researcher comments on a Science article about patterned ground, a process of self-organization in nonliving things. The research highlights the emergence of intricate patterns in Alaskan mountain ranges and North Slope, without predicting or natural selection.

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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Longest ice cores retrieved from Canadian Yukon

Researchers collected and analyzed a record-breaking ice core in the St. Elias range, providing insights into the North Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO). The PDO is a 20-30 year climate cycle affecting weather across North America, with cool and warm phases centered in the North Pacific.

Researchers identify protein that kills cancer cells

Researchers identified a protein called CUGBP2 that regulates the production of COX-2, a key culprit in arthritis and cancer. When CUGBP2 levels are high, it triggers cancer cell death by inhibiting COX-2 production.

Prescott Prize to Diane and Mark Littler

The book is a comprehensive guide to the flora of the Caribbean, featuring over 700 underwater color photographs and detailed information on 565 species of marine plants. The award recognizes the widespread need for this reference among students, researchers, and reef managers.

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.

Influences on quality of life in early old age

The study reveals that health and socio-economic factors have a natural impact on quality of life in early old age. Having control over work choices also significantly affects quality of life, with those who choose to retire or work beyond normal retirement age enjoying better lives than those with limited options.

Ant agriculture: 50 million years of success

Researchers studied DNA sequences to understand co-evolutionary system between ants, garden fungi and parasitic fungal weeds. They found that the system has been locked in an evolutionary 'arms race' for millions of years.

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.

From slime to saviors: Sorting out the fungal family tree

The study aims to identify disease-fighting fungi and understand their role in nutrient cycling. By analyzing multiple genes and structural characteristics, researchers will create a database to distinguish between beneficial and harmful fungal species.

Evolving slower gets you the bigger piece of the pie

A recent study by Max Planck Institute researchers found that in mutualistic interactions between species, the faster-evolving species may actually lose out. The slow-moving species can gain an advantage when both are generous and coordinate their strategies, whereas quickly evolving species tend to adapt to slow evolvers' needs.

Researchers find a molecule that improves wound repair

Researchers at McGill University have discovered a molecule that accelerates wound healing, providing a potential treatment option for millions of Americans suffering from burns and chronic skin ulcers. The growth factor progranulin has been shown to improve skin repair, offering new hope for individuals affected by these conditions.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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Researchers discover how embryo attaches to the uterus

Scientists found that the embryo uses L-selectin on its surface to bind with carbohydrate molecules on the uterine wall, leading to a complete stop and attachment. This discovery may provide information useful for treating infertility and potentially offer insight into preeclampsia.

Leptin regulates the immune response to friend and foe

Researchers found leptin significantly correlates with reduction in food intake and weight loss prior to developing EAE symptoms. Modulating leptin concentration through dietary approaches may have potential utility in treating MS and other autoimmune diseases.

Back pain under-recognised in less-developed countries

A cross-sectional study of Tibetan adults found that low back pain is a significant problem, impairing health and productivity. Effective interventions, such as safer back positioning and flip-charts, can help reduce the burden of low back pain in rural societies.

Researchers decipher cause of parasite’s worldwide spread

A study published in Science reveals that Toxoplasma parasites can rapidly adapt to new hosts, allowing them to infect a wide range of animal species and spread worldwide. This discovery raises the possibility of other parasites undergoing similar changes, potentially presenting new threats of infection.

Rapid diagnostic test for plague

A rapid diagnostic test for plague has been developed to detect antigens at low concentrations within 15 minutes of infection. The test is 100% sensitive and reliable, detecting more infections than conventional laboratory assessments and providing opportunities for bioterrorism preparedness and response.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Magnetic 'slinky effect' may power aurora

Research at the University of Minnesota suggests that magnetic field lines, similar to a slinky, can produce energy waves that accelerate electrons toward Earth. These waves are sufficient to power auroras, which occur in ring-shaped patterns around the poles.

Umbilical cord matrix, a rich new stem cell source, study shows

Researchers have discovered a new source of stem cells in the umbilical cord, which can be obtained through a non-invasive method. The cord matrix stem cells have been shown to differentiate into neurons and glia, exhibiting telomerase activity and producing nerve-cell specific traits.

JCI table of contents, January 15 2003

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the effects of HIV protease inhibitors on atherosclerosis, as well as exploring novel gene therapies for epidermolysis bullosa. Additionally, studies on CXCR4/CXCL12 interaction reveal new insights into hematopoietic stem cell mobilization.

Scientists discover what makes human embryo attach to uterus

Researchers found that a molecular sticking process stops the embryo's journey along the uterine wall and starts attaching it to the wall, creating a sticky environment. The discovery of L-selectin protein helps to understand human embryo implantation and may prove useful to treat infertility.

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Reversible switch presages new paradigm for surface design

The UCSB team has developed a reversible switch for surface design, allowing for dynamic regulation of macroscopic properties. The technology uses alkanethiolates to create nanometer-thin interfaces that can be controlled as a function of space and time.

Picking your way through a minefield

The Office of Naval Research is developing a suite of technologies to help sailors and Marines avoid mines during amphibious landings. The systems, including Moving Map, Augmented Reality Visualization, and Expeditionary Warfare Decision Support System, aim to reduce the risk of accidents by providing real-time navigation data.

New study suggests missing link that explains how dinosaurs learned to fly

Scientists have discovered that ancient birds used a unique 'wing-assisted incline running' behavior to help them climb vertical surfaces, which may be the key to explaining how dinosaurs learned to fly. This behavior, found in modern-day birds, involves rapid movement of the front appendages to gain foot traction as it climbs.

Bringing bandwidth to the battlefield

The Navy's new concept, FORCEnet, focuses on integrating long-haul networks, knowledge management tools, and wireless technologies to support warfighters in the field. This initiative aims to provide real-time information advantage and enhance combat operations.

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.

Teens reveal strategies to quit, cut back on drinking

A survey of 1,069 high school students found that teens consider 'avoiding environments with alcohol' and 'talking with friends or other informal supports' as effective strategies to cut back on drinking. Formal counseling was more useful for quitting than reducing drinking, according to the teens.

Early diagnosis of childhood diabetes

Scientists at British Columbia's Children's Hospital reveal a method for directly measuring the level of self-destructive white blood cells in mouse blood, distinguishing those that go on to develop diabetes from those that do not. The technique may also be used to detect other autoimmune disorders.

MIT’s smart surface switches properties reversibly

Researchers at MIT create a switchable surface that can change from water-attracting to water-repelling by applying an electric field, with potential applications in drug delivery and biomedical engineering. The surface's properties are controlled using conformational transitions, allowing for reversible modification.

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.

New approach for reducing bleeding after surgery

Researchers found that recombinant activated factor VIIA significantly reduced blood loss during abdominal prostate removal surgery. Patients given the drug required no blood transfusions, whereas those receiving placebo did.

When to screen for diabetic eye disease?

A new study from the Liverpool Diabetic Eye Study has proposed optimal screening intervals for diabetic eye disease, based on incidence data. The findings suggest that patients with no baseline retinopathy should be screened every 3 years, while those with background retinopathy can be screened annually.

Scientists target microorganisms to break down toxic pesticide

Researchers have identified two microorganisms, Fusarium and Pandoraea spp., that can degrade the toxicity of endosulfan, a persistent organic pollutant. This breakthrough offers a potential solution for detoxifying contaminated sites, reducing toxic residues in soil.

Early mammals used pelvic bones to trot, study finds

Scientists discovered that early mammals used epipubic bones to stiffen their bodies during trotting steps, allowing for increased mobility and locomotor efficiency. This finding suggests that the development of these bones contributed significantly to the evolution of mammals.

Vitamins may protect against heart disease

Research suggests that taking dietary supplements of L-arginine and antioxidants like vitamins C and E may lower the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease. The treatment reduced inflammation and increased production of eNOS, a molecule that prevents blood clots.

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.

Walking sticks lost wings, then re-evolved them

A new study by Brigham Young University researchers found that walking stick species re-evolved wings after losing them 50 million years earlier. The discovery raises questions about the basics of evolutionary theory and suggests that complexity can be maintained over tens of millions of years.

Lightning really does strike more than twice

A NASA study found that lightning strikes in multiple locations, with 35% of recorded flashes striking the ground in two or more places. On average, each cloud-to-ground flash struck the ground in 1.45 separate places, increasing the risk of being struck by 45%.

UMass study reconsiders formation of Antarctic ice sheet

A UMass study suggests that greenhouse gases were the primary driver behind the rapid formation of Antarctica's ice sheet, contradicting a long-held theory on plate tectonics. The researchers used computer simulations to recreate the world 34 million years ago and found that a drop in carbon dioxide levels triggered the glaciation.

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.

NASA scientists take first 'full-body scan' of evolving thunderstorm

Researchers gather data from an unusual storm over the Amazon rainforest to analyze the storm's inner workings, revealing a two-phase process where both precipitation forms at lower altitudes and higher in the atmosphere. The study provides new insight into storm intensity and hazards, which should be avoided by aircraft.

Is remote sensing the answer to today's agriculture problems?

Scientists at North Carolina State University developed a remote sensing technique to accurately time nitrogen fertilizer applications in wheat, resulting in an 86% success rate across various environmental conditions. This technology allows growers to make informed decisions that balance profitability and environmental stewardship.

Human lymph disease could tail off thanks to gecko

Researchers studying the common Australian gecko Christinus marmoratus have found a protein growth factor that contributes to its ability to quickly regenerate its tail after losing it. This discovery is encouraging for treating human lymphoedema, but more research is needed.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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