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Science News Archive June 2003


Page 5 of 10

World's largest solar adaptive optics system developed in New Mexico

The new AO76 system, developed by the National Optical Astronomy Observatory in New Mexico, produces sharper images under worse seeing conditions than the previous AO24 system. This allows existing solar telescopes to produce higher resolution images and greatly improve their scientific output.

Movement brings computer images to life

Researchers have developed a new method called kinetic visualization that uses colored dots and motion to present three-dimensional scientific or medical data. This technique allows computers to display data in a different way, providing shape information and attracting attention to important areas.

UCI biologist proposes trimming some branches

Francisco Ayala and Camilo J. Cela-Conde propose trimming the human evolutionary tree from seven branches to four, including a new branch Praeanthropus. This simplification aims to provide a clearer overview of human evolution.

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

DNA unwinding protein runs on two motors

Researchers have discovered that the DNA unwinding protein RecBCD uses two motors to move along the DNA, one from 3' to 5' and another from 5' to 3'. This allows the complex to travel long distances before stopping or getting derailed.

Experimental imaging technique details spread of prostate cancer

A new experimental imaging technique has been developed to detect prostate cancer metastases in abdominal lymph nodes. The technique uses advanced high-resolution MR imaging, computerized image analysis, and a novel contrast agent to identify malignant nodes with high accuracy.

Study provides new tool to diagnose and halt aggressive blood disorder

A new study has identified a special type of idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) that can be diagnosed with a tryptase blood test and treated successfully with imatinib. The disease, characterized by an overabundance of white blood cells called eosinophils, can cause severe organ damage and is often fatal.

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.

Bellingham, Wash., teacher wins top award for chemistry teaching

Beardsley's dedication to innovative teaching methods and extracurricular programs has significantly impacted her students' enthusiasm for chemistry. Her achievements have been acknowledged by the American Chemical Society, which presents its High School Chemistry Teaching Award annually.

Donor cells from new source ignored by the immune system

Kansas State University researchers successfully transplanted umbilical cord matrix stem cells from a pig into the brain of a live rat without triggering an immune response. The recipient cells survived for over six weeks and began to differentiate into nervous system cells, suggesting a new therapeutic option for Parkinson's disease.

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.

University of Rhode Island launches Teacher Research and Mentoring Armada

The University of Rhode Island's Teacher Research and Mentoring Armada program recruits master teachers for summer research experiences, mentoring, and standards-based curricula implementation. The program also enables researchers to incorporate teachers into their projects, disseminating results to the broader educational community.

New way to make realistic shadows for computer images, animation

Engineers at Ohio State University have developed a new software algorithm that models translucent objects and fluids to create soft, realistic shadows. The algorithm, called splatting, uses volume elements and 2D footprints to generate accurate shadows with minimal data storage requirements.

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.

Treatment for depression in heart attack patients fails to improve survival

A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that treating depression and social isolation in heart attack patients does not improve survival rates, but significantly improves quality of life. The ENRICHD trial followed 2,481 heart attack patients with depression or low social support for 29 months.

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.

UK research, accessible for free, for everyone

The UK has signed a landmark deal to make scientific research freely available online. BioMed Central's membership agreement commences on July 1st, waiving article-processing charges for all UK higher education staff. This move aims to increase the proportion of open-access articles published worldwide.

The mechanical switch in the ear

Sensory hair cells convert mechanical energy into electrical signals through transduction channels. A new report identifies NompC as a vertebrate homologue of a previously known channel, required for mechanosensation in zebrafish and possibly other animals.

Muscle protein has role in nerve disorders

Researchers found that a muscle protein called dystroglycan plays a crucial role in forming normal myelin sheaths, which allow nerves to transmit signals efficiently. The study suggests that disruption of this protein may contribute to various neuropathic disorders.

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.

Pakistani injection drug users twice as likely to donate blood

A study found that Pakistani injection drug users are twice as likely to donate blood, putting the general population at risk of spreading blood-borne diseases. The researchers advocate for increased screening and interventions to prevent the spread of infections.

Is there an unexpected price for late night high tech excitement?

A study examined the effects of bright display screens on melatonin levels, core temperature, heart rate, and sleepiness during VDT tasks at night. The results showed that salivary melatonin concentration increased in all conditions, with lower levels during exciting-BD tasks compared to exciting-DD tasks.

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.

'Man's best friend' may be even better

Researchers have developed a canine model of nasal congestion and allergic rhinitis that closely resembles human conditions. The study found that histamine-induced nasal congestion in dogs was alleviated by α-adrenergic agonists, paving the way for testing new treatments.

Scientists find protein that controls prostate cancer's spread

A new study by University of Michigan researchers reveals that protein RKIP governs prostate cancer cells' ability to enter nearby blood vessels, a crucial step in metastasis. Tumors with normal RKIP levels appear unable to invade blood vessels, while those without RKIP are more likely to spread.

Injection prevents blinding blood vessel growth in mice

Researchers developed VEGF-TRAP, an injection that prevents new blood vessel growth in the eyes of mice. The treatment halted existing vessel leakage and showed long-lasting effects without complications. It may offer a potential treatment for diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.

Study supports lengthening prostate cancer screening interval

A study suggests that extending screening intervals could reduce lead-time bias and overdetection rates associated with prostate cancer screenings. The research estimates a potential 60-90% increase in prostate cancer incidence, highlighting the need to weigh benefits against risks.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Stanford research finds better results in newer antipsychotic meds

A recent study by Stanford researchers found that four of the 10 studied atypicals were more effective than conventional medications in treating psychotic symptoms. The effectiveness of new antipsychotics varies from drug to drug, but they generally carry a smaller risk of severe side effects compared to older medications.

Eye movement studies to help diagnose mental illness

Researchers use eye movement tests to investigate brain abnormalities causing mental disorders, including schizophrenia, depression, and autism. The study aims to develop a noninvasive tool for diagnosing brain disorders.

Millions of Americans suffer from major depression

A recent study by Harvard Medical School found that millions of Americans suffer from major depressive episodes (MDE), with the majority being severe cases. The researchers measured the severity and duration of depression in over 9,000 Americans and found that only one in five received adequate treatment for their condition.

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.

Other highlights of the June 18 JNCI

Research suggests that frequent consumption of miso soup and high intake of isoflavones may lower breast cancer risk. Vitamin D analog paricalcitol also demonstrates antitumor activity against myeloid leukemia, myeloma, and colon cancer cells.

Medication may slow progression of Alzheimer disease

Researchers discovered that patients who received Exelon before withdrawing from a study showed significantly less cognitive decline than placebo-treated patients. The findings suggest a possible effect in delaying the biological progression of Alzheimer's disease.

Hebrew University researcher studies 'reorganization' of brain in blind people

A study by Hebrew University researcher Dr. Ehud Zohary found that blind people's brains reorganize to process touch and memory, leading to superior verbal memory skills. The research opens a window into understanding cortical plasticity in brain systems, potentially leading to improved treatment for neurodegenerative diseases.

Mayo Clinic finds key digestive role for 'silent killer'

Researchers found that carbon monoxide helps regulate smooth-muscle contraction in the gastrointestinal tract, enabling precise movement of food through the stomach and bowels. This discovery suggests potential clinical applications for carbon monoxide as a therapeutic agent in treating motility disorders.

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Sex Differences in Cardiovascular Disease

Research highlights similar risk factors for women and men, yet varying impacts on heart health. Experts discuss the role of estrogen in blood pressure regulation and cardiovascular disease prevention.

Millennium baby findings

The Millennium Cohort Study, funded by ESRC, follows the lives of nearly 19,000 babies born between 2000 and 2002. The study provides valuable insights into birth, baby, and parenthood topics, such as parents' ages and children's development.

Simulated global environmental changes impact plant diversity

The Carnegie Institution's study found that elevated CO2 and nitrogen pollution reduced wildflower diversity, while increased water levels increased overall plant diversity. The four treatment combinations resulted in a decrease in wildflower species but an increase in grasses.

Blame, not just poor economy, needed to impact voting

A study by Kevin Arceneaux found that people facing economic adversity are more likely to vote when they blame the government for economic outcomes. The opposition party must convince voters that the current administration is at fault during times of economic hardship.

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.

JCI table of contents, 16 June 2003

Sandra McLachlan and her team reveal that cleavage of the TSHR A subunit can induce or amplify the immune response to the TSHR, resulting in autoantibodies that stimulate thyroid hormones. This finding increases understanding of why autoantibodies arise specifically to the TSHR, leading to Graves hyperthyroidism.

Some 400 'fragile regions' of genome more vulnerable to evolutionary breaks

Scientists have identified 400 'fragile regions' in the human genome that are more susceptible to genetic rearrangements, which could lead to a better understanding of cancer and other diseases. The study's findings contradict previous theories on genomic breakage, suggesting that these regions are like fault lines in the genome.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Birds do it. Bugs do it. But why don't we?

Research by University of Michigan biologist Jianzhi Zhang found that humans lost pheromone signals after a gene duplication event around 23 million years ago. This duplication allowed for the development of color vision, making pheromones unnecessary as a channel for sexual signaling.

Annals of Internal Medicine, tip sheet, June 17, 2003

A new study suggests that pneumococcal vaccination can save medical costs for individuals aged 50 to 64, particularly those at high risk of pneumococcal disease. The cost-effectiveness of vaccination is comparable to other preventive services in this age group.

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.

Transplantation tolerance: Of mice and men

A recent study by Christian Larsen and colleagues reveals that a specific threshold of memory cells is necessary to promote rejection, while CD8+ central memory cells mediate rejection. The authors suggest testing for potential cellular sensitization against donors prior to tolerance protocols to increase human transplantation success.

Some gun dealers willing to make illegal sales

A recent study by researchers at the University of California - Los Angeles found that many gun dealers are willing to sell firearms to individuals prohibited from buying them, despite federal laws. The survey revealed that 87.5% of dealers would make a sale if the firearm was identified as being for someone else.

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Mothers know best about child’s smoke exposure

A study found that 85% of children in low-income families had daily exposure to secondhand smoke, with mothers reporting the highest levels. Cotinine levels in children's urine only confirmed exposure for about 90% of cases, highlighting potential limitations of testing.