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Science News Archive June 2003


Page 2 of 10

Sweet drinks increase obesity, nutrition risk in kids

Children who consumed more than 12 ounces of sweetened drinks gained significantly more weight than those who drank less, due to increased caloric intake. The study also found that sweetened drinks displaced milk consumption, leading to lower calcium and zinc intake.

Critical infrastructure research improving public safety

Researchers are conducting critical infrastructure modeling and assessment to improve public safety. They analyze the connections between infrastructures, such as traffic lights and power plants, to anticipate potential failures. The project creates data visualizations to help policymakers understand the big picture.

How alcohol use may worsen hepatitis C infection

A new study found that alcohol consumption increases the activity of a protein that causes the hepatitis C virus to replicate, leading to liver disease. The study also discovered that alcohol interferes with antiviral treatment, such as interferon-alpha, which is currently the only licensed treatment for the infection.

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Smoke-free rules may be good news for business

A study by Cornell University found that smoke-free regulations in New York restaurants and hotels did not harm employment or sales. In fact, the regulations led to a statistically significant increase in taxable sales and overall payrolls.

Studies show new role for protein in cancer development

Studies found that increasing TBP levels can contribute to oncogenesis, while p53 acts as a tumor suppressor by reducing TBP's effective concentration. These findings have implications for the development of new cancer treatments and therapies.

Alcohol increases hepatitis C virus in human cells

Research found that alcohol consumption increases hepatitis C virus replication by upregulating nuclear factor kappa B, a key cellular regulator of immune pathways. Alcohol also inhibits the anti-HCV effect of interferon-alpha therapy. Treatment with naltrexone abolishes alcohol actions.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

DVT risk from air travel unrelated to reduced air pressure in cabin

Researchers exposed eight healthy participants to hypoxia and normal air conditions to investigate potential link between air travel and venous thrombosis (DVT). The study found no significant changes in clotting activity during hypoxic exposure, but a larger study is required to confirm these findings.

Scientists find genetic link between cancer and premature aging

A new study connects a powerful cancer-causing protein to a gene associated with Werner syndrome, a disease causing premature aging. Researchers suggest developing drugs that interfere with the WRN gene's anti-aging properties to block Myc's tumor-promoting activity.

New catalyst paves way for cheap, renewable hydrogen

Researchers have developed a new catalyst that can produce hydrogen at lower temperatures and with reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional methods. The catalyst, based on nickel, tin, and aluminum, has the potential to be used in industrial applications such as fertilizers production and petroleum products processing.

Racial differences in seeking time-critical treatment for a heart attack

A study of 239 heart-attack victims reveals that African Americans waited significantly longer than non-Hispanic whites to receive treatment, with blacks delaying by over three hours and whites by two hours. This delay can lead to reduced mortality rates if treatment begins within an hour after symptoms onset.

Purdue research: Better pharmaceuticals cost more

A study by Purdue University researchers found that patients experience more improvement in quality of life when taking more expensive pharmaceuticals, regardless of the ailment. The study suggests that government interference with market prices may reduce long-term drug development and potentially lead to fewer quality drugs.

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.

Law-enforcement could substantially reduce fatal traffic crashes

A study published in The Lancet found that law enforcement can substantially reduce fatal traffic crashes by 35% lower risk of fatalities after a conviction. Enforcement policies, including penalty points for driving convictions, show greater reductions in fatal crashes than mandatory vehicle improvements.

New ovarian cancer hope for women

A new biomarker, HE4, has been identified as a potential tool for early detection of ovarian cancer. The molecule is secreted into the blood and its presence can be detected in simple clinical tests.

English babies leave parents with less sleep

The Millennium Cohort Study found that over seven percent of English babies sleep in their parents' bed, a higher rate compared to other countries. The study also revealed various interesting facts about the first year of life for these children, such as the most common names and solid food consumption.

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.

Wake Forest scientists figure out bizarre visual condition

Researchers found that signals from the basal ganglia may be preventing intact visual areas from functioning properly. Disrupting basal ganglia activity could restore balance and treat visual neglect, a condition where patients perceive only half of their surroundings.

American Thoracic Society Journal news tips for July 2003 (first issue)

Researchers published studies on new treatments for severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), a potential new treatment for pulmonary hypertension in sickle cell patients using oral arginine, and the benefits of noninvasive ventilation. Early removal of breathing tubes, combined with noninvasive ventilation, significantly reduced hospi...

Distinctive genetic program guides breast cancer's deadly spread

Researchers have identified a set of genes specifically associated with breast cancer's ability to metastasize to bone. The study found that these 'poor prognosis signature' genes enable tumor cells to home in on bone and trigger growth of blood vessels. The discovery does not invalidate the classical model of tumor cell metastasis, bu...

Of mice and memory

Researchers at USC developed synthetic enzymes that can combat oxidative damage, leading to improved memory in mice. The findings suggest these compounds may be more effective than traditional antioxidants in humans and could potentially treat various diseases with an oxidative component.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Pox to pimples; study says acne-like outbreak not vaccinia

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that a generalized rash on some smallpox vaccine recipients was not due to the virus, but rather a benign reaction called folliculitis. The study aimed to clarify this previously unwell-documented phenomenon and reassure physicians about accurate diagnosis.

Cigarette smoke linked to low folate levels

Research suggests a significant association between cigarette smoke exposure and lower folate levels, potentially increasing the risk of diseases such as heart disease and breast cancer. The study found that red blood cell folate levels were 20% lower in current smokers compared to nonsmokers.

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.

UCI researcher pinpoints cause of inherited auditory neuropathy

Researchers have found a link between low nerve cell counts and inherited auditory neuropathy, a disorder affecting approximately 250,000 people. The study suggests that new therapies may be developed to prevent or treat the condition, potentially preserving existing nerve cells through stem cell research.

Purdue genetic discovery may aid plants and human medicine

A team of Purdue University researchers has identified two genetic mutations that alter plant growth and development, potentially leading to more resilient crops. These mutations also hold promise for improving cancer treatments by controlling the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs.

Four US students named to Chemistry Olympiad team

The American Chemical Society has selected four US students and two alternates to compete in the International Chemistry Olympiad. The team members, from various states across the country, will receive college-level training in organic chemistry through a series of lectures, problem-solving exercises, lab work, and testing.

UW-Madison receives $10 million for cancer communications research

Researchers at UW-Madison will enhance the Comprehensive Health Enhancement Support System (CHESS) with new functions tailored to individual needs. The center's projects aim to improve patient outcomes, quality of life, and cost-effectiveness in cancer communication systems.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Survey reveals adult ADHD often undiagnosed by primary care physicians

A recent survey found that nearly half of primary care physicians feel uncertain in diagnosing adult ADHD, highlighting the need for better training and symptom assessment tools. The survey also revealed that only 34% of physicians report being knowledgeable about adult ADHD, compared to 92% for depression.

Impatient Web searchers measure Web sites' appeal in seconds

Researchers analyzed over 450,000 web queries, finding half of users enter only one query with 54% viewing just one page of results. Site developers can improve odds by getting indexed by all search engines and crafting clear abstracts about their site's purpose.

Tissue-engineered bone speeds healing in laboratory tests

Researchers develop scaffold that enables bone marrow cells to grow naturally without growth factors, promoting dense new bone growth. The technology has shown promising results in animal studies, with strong new bone replacing the scaffold in just eight weeks.

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.

Study shows negative impact from parental move after divorce

A recent study by Arizona State University researchers contradicts the assumption that a child's best interest is served when the custodial parent moves. The study found that students whose parents had moved experienced higher negative impacts on general health, financial support, and emotional well-being.

June issue ofPlant Physiologyhas significant UCR contributions

The June issue of Plant Physiology features UCR's Center for Plant Cell Biology, which addresses fundamental questions in plant biology through interdisciplinary approaches. The center's work has significant implications for understanding plant cell function and responses to environmental changes.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Risk of eye injuries from airbags very low

A recent study analyzed data from two Finnish cohorts and found the risk of any type of eye injury caused by airbags to be very slight, only 2.5 percent. Open eye injuries were more likely to occur among eyeglass wearers, but those who did not wear eyeglasses were more likely to suffer from injuries caused by airbag chemicals.

Standard operation procedure exacerbates liver cancer

A study by Te Velde found that the Pringle manoeuvre increases tumour growth and recurrence after liver surgery, reducing patient survival chances. Medicines preventing blood vessel regeneration can be combined with chemotherapy to control tumours.

Internal waves appear to have the muscle to pump up mid-lats

Researchers have calculated that internal waves can carry up to 50% of their original energy as they propagate through the ocean depths, with this energy directed towards mid-latitude areas. This finding has significant implications for understanding ocean mixing and its impact on global climate models.

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.

Interactive cuddly toys

A study by Dr Lydia Plowman and Dr Rosemary Luckin found that young children can coordinate toy and screen interactions without confusion. However, the toys' limited ability to promote learning was noted, with children preferring human helpers over technology.

New center for preparation and distribution of adult stem cells

The Tulane center will prepare and distribute a continuous supply of marrow stromal cells (MSCs) using standardized protocols, addressing the need for standard MSC preparations. The center's availability will allow scientists to better understand the capabilities of these cells for potential therapeutic uses.

Development of prostate drug based on UT Southwestern research

A new study by UT Southwestern finds that finasteride effectively reduces prostate cancer risk and improves symptoms in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia. The drug, already used to treat BPH, works by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, which is involved in prostate cancer development.

'Mimics' may open screen(ing) door to GPCR drugs

Researchers develop soluble mimics of GPCRs to study their interactions with G-proteins, potentially leading to new drugs for various medical conditions. The technology could also be used to screen for drugs that block malfunctioning GPCRs.

Computer simulations mimic growth of 'dizzy dendrites'

Researchers used computer simulations to study the effect of foreign particles on crystal growth patterns. They found that these particles produced unique 'dizzy dendrite' patterns that can be replicated using specific methods.

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.

American College of Sports Medicine honors expert who made sports safer

The American College of Sports Medicine honors Dr. Mueller, a renowned expert in athletic injury research, for his 35-year dedication to making sports safer. His work has led to significant rule changes, safety equipment updates, and a reduction in injuries and fatalities across various sports.

By fusing images, Lehigh professor detects concealed weapons

A Lehigh University professor has developed a system that combines images from optical and millimeter-wave cameras to detect concealed weapons, which could save security guards seconds in the search process. The technology uses wireless communication links and has potential applications for law enforcement and military use.

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.

Protrusions in oil paintings are a worldwide problem

Researchers discovered protrusions in oil paintings, composed of metal soaps, which form when paint layers contain lead and zinc. The phenomenon affects both panels and canvases, causing a bumpy surface texture, and can still be active in some cases.

Rapid movements of living biomolecules visualised

Researcher Chris Molenaar developed a method to follow biomolecule movements in living cells, revealing interactions between proteins and RNA. The technique uses fluorescent probes and microscopy to visualize molecular mobility and interactions, providing insights into cell functioning.

Many diabetics may not know they have kidney disease, study shows

Researchers found that 30% of diabetic patients with kidney disease do not exhibit common symptoms like protein in urine and eye disease. The current approach of screening for these symptoms alone is insufficient, and a blood test measuring kidney function directly is recommended.

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.

Problem-Based Learning Center at Wake Forest gets Hughes Grant

The Wake Forest Problem-Based Learning Center has received a $539,352 grant from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute to support teacher professional development. The center's program, which uses problem-based learning to engage students in real-world science and math projects, has shown remarkable success, with 97% of tracked students ...