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Science News Archive June 2003


Page 6 of 10

Richland, Wash., chemist receives award for materials research

Matson's work on ultra-barrier coatings has the potential to replace glass in electronic displays, enabling flexible and cheaper alternatives for cell phones, TVs, laptops, and digital watches. The American Chemical Society's Industrial Innovation Awards recognize his contributions to commercial success and improved quality of life.

Neandertal facial length issue settled

Researchers found Neandertals did not have long faces, but rather average or slightly reduced facial projection compared to earlier human ancestors. Modern humans' faces are significantly shorter due to evolutionary 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.

U of T scientists build a bridge for new bone

A team of University of Toronto researchers has created a biodegradable scaffold that accelerates bone healing rates by providing a building structure for bone growth. The scaffold, similar in structure to a dish sponge, eventually dissolves, eliminating the need for expensive chemicals called bone growth factors.

Taste testing may help identify alcoholism risk

A study found that individuals with a positive paternal history of alcoholism prefer less salty and sour solutions, indicating unique taste characteristics that may contribute to protection against alcoholism. Researchers suggest that altered taste sensitivity may also play a role in the development of alcoholism risk.

At last: Just three cell types detect light in the eye

A team of international researchers led by Johns Hopkins scientists has discovered that the eye's ability to detect light is carried out by just three cell types: rods, cones, and melanopsin-producing cells. This finding resolves years of controversy and sheds new light on the eye's non-visual functions.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Genetic clue links selenium to breast cancer prevention

A study by University of Illinois Chicago nutrition scientists reveals a potential genetic link between selenium and breast cancer prevention. The research identifies specific versions of a gene that may require more selenium in the diet for cancer-preventive benefits.

UCSD researchers identify gene involved in bipolar disorder

A mutation in the GRK3 gene, specifically in the promoter region, is linked to bipolar disorder in up to 10% of cases. The study suggests that this mutation causes individuals to become hypersensitive to dopamine, leading to mood extremes characteristic of the disease.

Imaging lithium with an electron microscope

For the first time, researchers have used a transmission electron microscope to image lithium atoms, capturing an arrangement of lithium ions among cobalt and oxygen atoms in the compound lithium cobalt oxide. The One Angstrom Microscope achieved a resolution as high as 0.78 angstrom.

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.

Nicotine-patch treatment works for smokers with long-term sobriety

A study published in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research found that nicotine replacement therapy works as well for smokers with long-term sobriety as it does for smokers without a history of alcoholism. In fact, most smokers with past alcoholism (85%) can quit smoking without difficulty and benefit from nicotine-patch treatment.

Enzyme may play unexpected role in asthma

Researchers identified nearly 300 asthma signature genes involved in pathogenesis, including arginase, which triggers asthmatic symptoms. The discovery could lead to targeted treatments for individual patients.

Alcohol facilitates aggression among those who express anger outwardly

Researchers found that alcohol increases the likelihood of aggressive behavior in individuals who tend to express their anger outwardly, such as through verbal or physical aggression. This association is significant and highlights the importance of understanding emotions and regulation in relation to drinking and aggressive behavior.

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.

A rare find

Scott Oliver has been awarded a $500,000 NSF career grant to develop a new class of cationic microporous inorganic materials with unprecedented potential applications. These materials can trap anionic pollutants and are stable under high temperatures or acidic/basic conditions.

Remote sub can patrol Shores. Sound Fishy? It is, but not like you think.

Researchers have developed an AI system that can recognize various marine species, including fish and potential threats. The system, called Fetch2, has successfully identified two species - jacks and sharks - using side scan sonar data and neural networks, paving the way for autonomous surveillance of coastlines and harbors.

Studies could lead to next-generation cancer drugs

Susan Bane's research focuses on understanding how anticancer drugs like Taxol interact with tubulin at the molecular level. The study of these interactions could pave the way for the development of more effective next-generation cancer drugs, potentially with improved administration and reduced resistance.

A new view of the crayfish brain

Researchers at Emory University Health Sciences Center have developed a new MRI technique using manganese-enhanced imaging to study the neural circuitry of aggression in crayfish. This breakthrough enables scientists to analyze entire patterns of brain activation, providing insights into complex social behaviors.

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.

Physicians not 'easy marks' for drug sales reps, argues O.R. study

A study by Columbia University and the University of Washington found that pharmaceutical sales reps have modest to very small influence on prescribing behavior. In contrast, distributing drug samples plays a more positive role in contrasting medications and helping manufacturers maintain market share.

Using frequency waves to measure moisture in soil

Researchers have developed a numerical model for simulating the waveform in soil, improving field measurements of water content. The new method uses Time Domain Reflectometry and takes into account various factors such as soil types, bulk density, and probe parameters.

SARS death rate lower in countries responding aggressively to initial outbreak

Researchers analyzed data from the World Health Organization and found that countries with quicker control measures had lower fatality rates and slower epidemics. The study suggests that better control measures, such as rapid hospitalization and isolation of cases, are more effective than differences in infectivity or virulence.

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.

'Obesity is a family illness': Research offers clues on how to stop the cycle

A study by Saint Louis University School of Public Health found that parents who received nutrition information ate more fruits and vegetables, consumed less fat, and had a greater impact on their children's health. The High 5, Low Fat Program aims to deliver consistent messages to young families, promoting healthy eating habits.

Natural selection's fingerprint identified on fruit fly evolution

Researchers have identified a gene, Nup 96, that plays a crucial role in preventing the reproduction of hybrid fruit fly species, suggesting natural selection as the driving force behind their divergence. The study provides unprecedented insight into speciation and offers new avenues for understanding the evolution of genetic traits.

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.

Breakthrough 'interface tuning' is macro step for microelectronics

Researchers at NC State and Oak Ridge National Laboratory have successfully tuned the atomic-level zone between substances, opening the way for smaller, faster and smarter computers. By manipulating the electronic dipole charge at the interface, they've found a way to overcome the limitations of Schottky barriers.

Blood test could detect heart attack early

A new blood test can detect heart attacks in just five minutes with a 99% accuracy rate, improving diagnosis and treatment outcomes. The test identifies two proteins associated with the earliest stages of a heart attack, reducing unnecessary hospital stays.

QuikClot (TM) will be made available to public

Developed by Z-Medica Corporation and funded by the Office of Naval Research, QuikClot has been proven effective in treating severe arterial hemorrhage with a high success rate. The product is set to be released for consumer use this summer and may also help individuals with specific bleeding disorders.

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.

Study suggests difference between female and male sexuality

A new Northwestern University study suggests a fundamental difference in men's and women's brains and arousal patterns. Women exhibit a bisexual arousal pattern, responding equally to both male and female erotica, unlike men who respond consistently with their sexual orientations.

Seroquel: Effective and well tolerated treatment for bipolar disorder

Seroquel was shown to significantly reduce mean Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) total scores in patients with bipolar disorder, with a faster reduction in symptoms compared to placebo. The medication was well-tolerated and had fewer side effects than other treatments like haloperidol.

A different antiviral for treating SARS

Researchers at Frankfurt University Medical School have assessed the antiviral potential of five drugs against the SARS coronavirus. Glycyrrhizin, an antiviral agent proven to treat HIV-1 and hepatitis C, is the most active compound in inhibiting replication, with increased nitric oxide synthesis contributing to its effectiveness.

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Statins should be routine therapy for people with diabetes

A study led by Rory Collins found that statin therapy reduces the risk of primary outcomes for people with diabetes, including cardiac death, non-fatal heart attack, and stroke. The reduction in risk appeared to be greater among diabetic patients who did not have occlusive arterial disease.

Scientists close in on understanding learning and memory

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine reveal the crucial last step involved in long term depression, a process thought to underlie learning and memory. By blocking this step, they created a mouse with weakened connections that didn't affect behavior, paving the way for studying GluR2's role in motor skills.

Smart bricks could monitor buildings, save lives

Researchers have developed a smart brick that can monitor a building's temperature, vibration, and movement, providing vital information for firefighters and rescue workers. The device uses sensor fusion, signal processing, and wireless communication to report conditions remotely, enabling improved safety and comfort.

The Plasti-Bone

Acer's process creates a micro-porous calcium phosphate coated polymer 'bone' that allows natural bone growth, reducing recovery time to 18 months. The technology, funded by the Navy Small Business Technology Transition program, has shown success in animal testing and tissue cultures.

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.

Portable CT scanner joins hunt for alternative energy

Researchers have developed a portable CT scanner that enables real-time, on-site analysis of gas hydrates in core samples, revolutionizing the search for alternative energy sources. The innovative system uses a medical CT scanner and reduces its size to analyze hundreds of x-ray scans into one high-resolution image.

Silent DNA architecture helps block cancer cell growth

Scientists discover that cellular senescence involves packaging of specific chromosomal regions into heterochromatin, which triggers a 'stop growing' response in cells. The study reveals genes are switched on in proliferating cells but silenced during senescence.

Team finds immediate predecessor of modern humans

The discovery of Homo sapiens idaltu fossilized skulls in Ethiopia confirms modern humans originated in Africa and predate Middle Eastern remains by 30,000 years. The ancient predecessor's diet included hippopotamus, with stone tool marks suggesting early mortuary practices and possible scavenging.

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.

CEnIT seed grant grows a helping hand

Researchers at Louisiana Tech University are developing handheld computers to gather real-time data on patients' psychological states. This innovative approach aims to provide more accurate diagnoses and better treatment decisions.

Imaging technique tracks nerve growth and repair

A new imaging technique, using second harmonic generation microscopy, allows for the observation of microtubule polarity in living brain tissue. This enables researchers to study neuronal development and repair, as well as neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.

Robo-thespians help mothers of kids with cancer

Researchers at USC developed an animated health intervention called Carmen's Bright IDEAS to improve social problem-solving skills of mothers caring for kids with cancer. The system uses robotic thespians and AI to engage users in a positive experience, resulting in uniformly positive reviews from clinical trial participants.

Antifungal drug helps kids with immune disorder avoid hospitalization

A new clinical trial shows that antifungal prophylaxis with itraconazole reduces fungal infection risk in children with chronic granulomatous disease (CGD). The study found a statistically significant reduction in cases, suggesting the addition of itraconazole to treatment regimens.

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.

ICSU releases GMO synthesis report

The International Council for Science (ICSU) has released a report synthesizing over 50 science-based reviews on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food and agriculture. The report addresses key questions on the safety, environmental impact, and regulations of GM foods.

An image of success

Dr. Zhang's research focuses on improving indexing, retrieval, and use of images based on algorithms that rely on the semantics of the images themselves. His recent invention disclosure reveals a novel fuzzy logic-based indexing scheme and user relevance feedback algorithm for content-based image retrieval.

Noninvasive optical biopsies on the horizon

Researchers demonstrate noninvasive microscopy scans producing images of diseased tissue at the cellular level, rivaling traditional histopathology methods. The technique uses natural fluorescence and multiphoton microscopy to enable optical biopsies on living animals or humans without surgical intervention.

Earliest Homo sapiens fossils discovered in Ethiopia

The discovery of Herto fossils, dated between 100,000 to 300,000 years ago, provides critical evidence for the Out of Africa theory. The fossils demonstrate a transition from primitive African hominids to modern humans, bridging a previously unexplained period in human evolution.

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.

Day care lunch program monitors vital in successful program

A recent study found that CACFP monitors play a crucial role in ensuring program quality and child nutrition. The researchers recommend focusing on top five training needs, including program regulation and record keeping, to improve monitor training.

Glaciers: Alaska's Rivers of Ice

The USGS collaborated with Alpha DVD to produce a comprehensive educational DVD about Alaska's glaciers. The DVD covers glacier characteristics, climate history, and ecosystems, providing a detailed introduction to this natural process.