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Science News for June 27, 2003


Knowing risk factors can help identify elderly alcoholics for treatment

The study found significant disparities in self-reported versus diagnosed alcoholism rates among elderly individuals, with certain groups, such as those in poor health or aged 75+, being more likely to be under-diagnosed. The researchers identified key risk factors that can inform targeted screenings and interventions.

SourcePenn State·DateJun 27, 2003

Clear limits to a baby's view of the world

Researchers investigated how babies up to six months old perceive moving objects behind screens, finding that they initially don't see continuity until four months old. This suggests that babies develop their perceptual abilities with age rather than being born with them.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateJun 27, 2003

Student-built pill dispenser gives patient more independence

A team of Johns Hopkins students designed and built a computer-guided pill dispensing machine for a quadriplegic man, allowing him to take medication independently. The device, which uses a mouth stick and slam switch, enables the user to select medication and dispense it through a tube into their mouth.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateJun 27, 2003
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Moderate malnutrition kills millions of children needlessly

A Cornell University expert argues that 8 million childhood deaths worldwide are preventable due to malnutrition. Malnutrition interacts with diseases like measles and pneumonia, increasing the risk of death by up to 12 times. The solution lies in making healthcare more equitable and accessible, despite funding issues.

SourceCornell University·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 27, 2003

US-EC Biotech Task Force keys on research, collaboration

The US-EC Biotech Task Force is exploring the potential of transkingdom biology to bring together life forms from diverse kingdoms. This new field has opened up a broader relevance due to commonalities in molecular machinery, enabling researchers to share findings and perspectives.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateJun 27, 2003

Resistance voices from WW2 throw new light on 21st Century terrorism

Researchers analyzed interviews with WW2 Polish Resistance veterans to identify key motivations behind recruitment, including patriotism, xenophobia, and moral constraint. The study found that these emotions were rooted in a migrants' moral system and family life, rather than solely driven by ideology.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateJun 27, 2003

Minimal long-term effects of marijuana use found in central nervous system by UCSD researchers

A study published in the Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society found that chronic cannabis use has a small impact on learning and forgetting, suggesting selective memory defects. The research team suggests that heavy marijuana users often abuse other drugs with potential long-term neurological effects.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of the International Neuropsychological Society·DateJun 27, 2003

Stanford researcher links life-saving benefits to traffic

A recent study by Stanford researchers found that receiving traffic tickets reduces drivers' risk of dying in crashes by 35 percent. The study analyzed public records of Ontario drivers involved in fatal crashes between 1988 and 1998, revealing a significant protective effect of traffic enforcement.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 27, 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.

Male sex hormones cooperate with breast cancer gene to suppress tumors

Researchers found that the normal form of the BRCA-2 gene enhances androgen receptors' activity to suppress tumors. The mutant form of BRCA-2 fails to enhance activity, allowing cancer cells to proliferate. The study provides new insights into male breast cancer and its connection to the BRCA-2 gene.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 27, 2003