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Science News for January 7, 2003


Benefits of treating behavioral, functional problems caused by Alzheimer’s disease

A meta-analysis of 29 trials found that cholinesterase inhibitors improved behavioral and functional status in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests potential benefits for improving quality of life and reducing caregiver burdens, but long-term research is needed to confirm these findings.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA·DateJan 7, 2003

Patient compliance influences pediatric transplant recommendations

A study published in the American Journal of Transplantation found that 94% of compliant pediatric patients were recommended for transplant, compared to 62% of non-compliant patients. The researchers also discovered that children from more educated parents were more likely to be referred for transplantation.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Transplantation·DateJan 7, 2003

New role for tamoxifen as fertility drug for breast cancer patients?

Researchers found that tamoxifen stimulation increased mature eggs and embryos compared to natural cycle IVF, with one patient already giving birth to twins. A larger study is planned to include low amounts of FSH for additional benefits.

SourceEuropean Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology·JournalHuman Reproduction·DateJan 7, 2003
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study points to methods for safe drug dispensing via computer

The BCMA system was found to have five unanticipated negative side effects, including automatic removal of medications from patient lists and decreased coordination between doctors and nurses. The study highlights the need for flexible redesign and modification of the system to address these challenges.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateJan 7, 2003

Wireless network boosts supernova search to stellar first year

The Nearby Supernova Factory has achieved its best rookie year due to the high-speed link provided by the High Performance Wireless Research and Education Network (HPWREN). This allows for rapid image processing and analysis, leading to a higher number of discovered supernovae. The project's success demonstrates the benefits of partner...

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateJan 7, 2003

Astronomers poised to apply novel way to look for comets beyond Neptune

The TAOS Project will search for comets by monitoring the brief eclipses of background stars as these objects pass between the telescopes and their light source. This innovative method allows scientists to detect small, faint objects that are too far away to be seen in reflected sunlight.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·DateJan 7, 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.

Computer program reveals optimum microstructure for new materials

Researchers at Princeton University have developed a mathematical system to design composite materials that perform two functions simultaneously. The approach uses computer calculations to find the optimal structure, which can help optimize properties such as heat and electricity conductivity.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 7, 2003

Lowering beta-amyloid levels in blood to treatment Alzheimer's

A study found that injecting beta-amyloid binding agents into the bloodstream reduced brain plaques and amyloid protein levels in mice with Alzheimer's disease. The researchers suggest this approach as an initial step towards developing targeted drugs with fewer side effects.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateJan 7, 2003

Conflict with ex-wife limits involvement of fathers with children, study finds

A recent study by Ohio State University researchers found that lower levels of involvement between non-custodial fathers and their children are related to ongoing conflict with the children's mothers. The study suggests that conflict with a child's mother directly affects the father's involvement and satisfaction in his role as a father.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Family Issues·DateJan 7, 2003
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.