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Science News Archive June 2003 - Page 7


Page 7 of 10

Is Soybean Rust too close for comfort?

Plant pathologists and experts will discuss Soybean Rust's potential impact on US agriculture, citing significant yield losses and costly fungicide control measures. The symposium will focus on disease management tools, resistant breeding programs, detection methods, and a new USDA Action Plan.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·DateJun 11, 2003

UC Riverside research featured on the cover of JALA

Researchers at UC Riverside have made a breakthrough in single neuron positioning on microelectrodes, enabling the study of brain functions and diseases like dementia. This technology has the potential to benefit public health directly by providing a better understanding of how the brain functions.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJALA Journal of the Association for Laboratory Automation·DateJun 11, 2003
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Society report encourages preliminary sex analysis of clinical trial data

A new report emphasizes the importance of subgroup analysis in clinical trials to detect sex differences, which could impact drug efficacy. The study highlights cases where inadequate dosing for women led to ineffective treatment outcomes, underscoring the need for better trial design and statistical analysis.

SourceSociety for Women's Health Research·DateJun 11, 2003

Brain cells seen recycling rapidly to speed communications

Researchers found that brain cells recycle synaptic vesicles rapidly through a 'kiss-and-run' process, allowing for efficient communication. This process enables small nerve terminals to get full mileage from their limited set of vesicles, supporting rapid neurotransmitter release.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalNature·DateJun 11, 2003

UCSD researchers determine chemical cause for most severe form of cystic fibrosis

Researchers found that glutamate regulates the movement of bicarbonate and chloride into epithelial cells, controlling mucus transport and water flow. This discovery contributes to understanding how cystic fibrosis is controlled by gland cell membranes and may lead to future therapies for severe forms of the disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateJun 11, 2003
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Data will not go to waste

Researchers at Cardiff University are launching a survey to gather detailed data on commercial and industrial waste arisings in Wales. The survey will question 2,400 businesses across the country, providing valuable insights into waste generation and management practices.

SourceCardiff University·DateJun 11, 2003

Possible new cell type found in developing inner ear

Scientists have identified a new cell type, VENT cells, that migrate to the developing inner ear and mix with epidermal cells, contributing to the formation of complex tissues. The discovery, made by Dr. Paul Sohal, could explain how single cells give rise to distinct systems.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalInternational Journal of Developmental Neuroscience·DateJun 11, 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.

An eye for scent marks

Research suggests that rodents' UV vision helps them detect fresh urine marks, improving localization and social organization. This adaptation may have driven the retention of UV vision in these animals.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateJun 10, 2003

Chemists unlock secret to activating tumor suppressor gene

Researchers discover that PTEN can be activated by phosphorylation, a process that counterbalances cell growth and suppresses tumor growth. This breakthrough could lead to a new therapy for cancers associated with PTEN gene mutations.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2003

Aspirin as effective as Ticlopidine in African American stroke prevention

The study shows that aspirin is likely a better choice than ticlopidine for recurrent stroke prevention in African Americans, who face higher stroke risks. Aspirin is readily available and inexpensive, while ticlopidine has serious side effects and is more difficult to use.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke·JournalJAMA·DateJun 10, 2003

New herbal drug therapy effective in treating vascular dementia

Researchers found that a Chinese herbal medicine called gastrodine compound granule significantly improved memory and behavioral scores in patients with mild to moderate vascular dementia. The study showed a 51.43% improvement rate, compared to 52% for the standard medication Duxilâ.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJun 10, 2003

Ensuring the safety of first responder gas masks

Scientists will conduct live agent testing of masks at Aberdeen Proving Grounds, simulating mustard blistering and nerve gas sarin exposure. The tests aim to establish a maximum penetration rate and fit testing methods for gas masks worn by first responders.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateJun 10, 2003
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.

Study shows restricted activities predict decline; UNC physician urges acceptance of the inevitable

A study by Yale University found that older adults' disability scores worsen by 11.2% for every month of curtailed activity. The association between restricted activity and functional decline differs significantly in risk groups, with adjusted disability scores increasing by 18.7% and 7.5% for low- and intermediate-risk groups, respect...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJun 10, 2003

Atmospheric mercury has declined -- But why?

Researchers have observed a steady decline in atmospheric mercury levels since the mid-1990s, with concentrations remaining relatively constant. The findings highlight the need for further research on the sources of mercury emissions, including both natural and manmade components.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 10, 2003

Tooth, heal thyself

Researchers at NIST have invented composites that can promote re-growth of natural tooth structures efficiently. These bioactive, biocompatible materials can be used to stimulate the repair of defective teeth, minimizing decay under orthodontic braces and potentially in root canal therapy.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalPublic Administration Journal of Research·DateJun 10, 2003

Navigating the e-mail labyrinth

Researchers at USC created a new tool, eArchivarius, to organize and visualize electronic mail collections. It uses advanced search software to detect important relationships between messages and people, creating vivid and intuitive visual interfaces.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateJun 10, 2003
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.

Miniature mix-ups to speed materials research

Researchers at NIST are developing tiny lab-on-chip devices to automate material formulation testing, reducing trial-and-error exercises. The project aims to improve paints, shampoos, and other emulsions with real-time image measurement techniques, extending microfluidic system capabilities.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateJun 10, 2003

Off-pump bypass results in fewer complications

Researchers found a significant reduction in micro-emboli during off-pump coronary bypass surgery compared to traditional pump-assisted procedures. This decrease was associated with lower rates of neurological complications and cognitive decline after surgery.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJun 10, 2003

Deciphering how arteries contribute to hypertension

Researchers are investigating the role of arterial stiffness in hypertension by analyzing the elasticity, strength, and stiffness of rat and calf arteries. They found that hypertensive tissues are stiffer and less responsive to pressure changes.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalPublic Administration Journal of Research·DateJun 10, 2003

Cracking the nanonewton force barrier

Researchers create device that measures forces as small as tens of nanonewtons and ties those measurements to larger forces based on the kilogram. The instrument achieves accuracy to a few parts in 10,000 and aims to extend its resolution to piconewtons.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateJun 10, 2003

Ultra-cold substance shows stripes -- behavior explained

Researchers have developed a method to control the behavior of ultra-cold substances, which could lead to significant advancements in quantum computing and precise time measurements. By manipulating the material's density and vortex patterns, scientists can create unique flow patterns that defy traditional solid or liquid states.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPhysical Review A·DateJun 10, 2003
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

U-M study: Physicians perceive health care cost savings line pockets of insurance companies

A study found that physicians prioritize profits over patient benefits when considering cost savings. More than half of responding physicians believed money saved would go to insurance executives rather than patients or improved services. The study highlights the disconnect between doctor perceptions and long-term societal benefits.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalThe American Journal of Managed Care·DateJun 10, 2003

Close communication between identical twins helps them live longer

Identical twins who communicated once a month or more lived significantly longer than those with less frequent contact, outliving fraternal twins by nearly two years. Frequent social interaction among identical twins appears to contribute to their longevity.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalThe Journals of Gerontology Series A·DateJun 10, 2003
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.

Researchers identify shift towards more treatable AIDS-related lymphoma

Researchers found that AIDS-related lymphomas responding well to chemotherapy have high levels of proteins indicating rapid growth and multidrug resistance. The study also showed that suspending antiretroviral therapy during lymphoma treatment is safe and allows for high overall survival.

SourceNIH/National Cancer Institute·JournalBlood·DateJun 10, 2003

Barrel structure in globular proteins may transport small molecules

Researchers discovered that globular proteins can utilize their barrel structure to transport small molecules like ammonia, improving chemical reactions. This process, known as substrate channeling, allows for efficient delivery of reactants and enhances reaction rates.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 10, 2003

Smoking in movies influences teenagers to start smoking

A study found that adolescents who see more smoking in movies are more likely to try smoking, with 52% of initiations attributed to movie exposure. Reducing adolescents' exposure to smoking in movies could significantly reduce the number of smokers.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 9, 2003
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.

High cholesterol in early childhood predicts high cholesterol later

A study of 448 children in New York Head Start preschool programs found that those with high cholesterol at ages 3 and 4 were more likely to have high cholesterol five years later. The study suggests that early intervention and primary prevention can be effective in reducing the risk of coronary heart disease.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJun 9, 2003

Researchers uncover link between stroke and common treatment

A large collection of cases reveals that IVIG treatment can cause strokes in some patients, particularly those with hypertension, diabetes, and a history of cerebrovascular disease. The study found a 0.6% risk of stroke among inpatient IVIG recipients over a four-year period.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalNeurology·DateJun 9, 2003

Smoking in movies influences teenagers to start smoking

Teenagers who view more smoking in movies are almost three times more likely to start smoking compared to those with low exposure. The study found that half of smoking initiation can be attributed to viewing smoking in movies, highlighting the need for policy changes to reduce youth exposure.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJun 9, 2003

UT Southwestern researchers find immune system stages for eliminating viral infections, cancer cells

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have partially uncovered the stages in the elimination of viral infections and cancer cells by the human immune system. The study found that natural killer cells and cytotoxic T cells use different mechanisms to kill target cells, with significant differences in their roles and receptor usage.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 9, 2003
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.

Healthy diet now, saves on health care costs later

A recent study by the American Heart Association has linked high fruit and vegetable intake to lower healthcare costs in older age. The study found that middle-aged men who consumed more than 42 cups of fruits and vegetables per month had significantly lower Medicare charges compared to those who consumed less.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJun 9, 2003

Study suggests anti-smoking messages not reaching rural Hawaiians

A study of rural Hawaiians reveals high smoking rates, particularly among native Hawaiian women, which are attributed to lower socioeconomic status and cultural identity. The research aims to develop targeted anti-smoking strategies tailored to the specific needs of this demographic.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJun 9, 2003

NCAR scientists win award for in-flight turbulence prediction

NCAR scientists have developed a new algorithm to predict turbulence using airborne radars, enabling pilots to receive warnings up to 30 seconds in advance. The NCAR Efficient Spectral Processing Algorithm (NESPA) demonstrates an 80% detection rate and low false predictions, showing its feasibility for improving aviation safety.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateJun 9, 2003

Parkinson's disease linked to high iron intake

A study of 250 newly diagnosed patients and 388 healthy individuals found that those with high iron intake were 1.7 times more likely to have Parkinson's disease. The study suggests that eating foods rich in iron and manganese may help prevent the disease.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateJun 9, 2003

Researchers learning how food-borne bacteria make you sick

A comprehensive study reveals that factors such as adhesion, invasion, and translocation determine the degree of illness from Listeria monocytogenes. Understanding these mechanisms could lead to the development of vaccines to prevent food poisoning.

SourcePurdue University·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateJun 9, 2003
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.

Immigrant lifestyle change influences stroke risk

A two-year study compares Chinese immigrant stroke patients to controls, finding reduced stroke risk through improved dietary habits, increased exercise, and better job status. Stressful factors like language barriers also contribute to lower job satisfaction among immigrants.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJun 9, 2003

Powering fuel cells: oxide materials may facilitate small-scale hydrogen production

Researchers at Georgia Tech have developed an oxide system that can produce hydrogen from water vapor and methane at lower temperatures, potentially allowing it to be powered by solar energy. This could provide a lower-cost alternative to traditional reforming processes for small-scale fuel cells in homes or vehicles.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology Research News·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 9, 2003

Asian Americans at heightened risk of 'silent' heart disease

A recent study found that Asian Americans are seven times more likely to develop silent myocardial ischemia, a condition where plaque buildup restricts blood flow to the heart. Patients may experience fatigue, shortness of breath or palpitations instead of chest pain, emphasizing the need for awareness and early screenings.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateJun 9, 2003
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.

Mouse study identifies protective mechanism against alcohol-induced embryo toxicity

A recent mouse study identified a compound, NAPVSIPQ, that protects embryos from alcohol-induced toxicity by blocking the effects of ethanol on the L1 cell adhesion molecule. This finding suggests a new target for medication development to prevent fetal alcohol damage.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 9, 2003

OSU weather forecasting tool outperforms competing models

A study by OSU researchers found that their weather forecasting tool, AMPS, outperformed competing models in predicting extreme weather conditions at the South Pole. This achievement has implications for extending the limited summer research season and improving polar forecasting skills.

SourceOhio State University·JournalWeather and Forecasting·DateJun 9, 2003

9/11 boosted trust in government, temporary distress, research shows

A study by University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill researchers found that overall reported sadness returned to pre-incident levels within four to six weeks, while increased trust in national, state and local governments persisted. Young adults between 18 and 26 were more likely to report religious feelings and higher psychological ...

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJun 9, 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.

Vehicle traffic associated with increased carcinogen levels

Research found that pollution levels from vehicle traffic vary greatly depending on traffic volume and vehicle type, with larger vehicles emitting up to 60 times more carcinogens than smaller ones. The study suggests that diesel engines power these larger vehicles, exacerbating exposure in urban communities.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of the Air & Waste Management Association·DateJun 9, 2003

'Lost' protein may lead to new prostate cancer treatment

Researchers discovered that a lost protein called PEDF can inhibit angiogenesis, a crucial process for tumor growth, in prostate cancer cells. Treatment with PEDF also triggered increased cell death in cancer cells, suggesting its potential as a new treatment option.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Medicine·DateJun 9, 2003

High percentage of N.C. children suffer undiagnosed asthma, new study shows

A recent study found that nearly 20% of North Carolina children experience un-diagnosed asthma symptoms, leading to missed school days and limited activities. The condition affects not only physical health but also sleep patterns, cognitive function, and learning ability.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJun 9, 2003

Study: Transferred patients hurt big hospitals' rankings

A new study found that transferred patients are sicker and more likely to die than those admitted directly, damaging hospital scores on measures used by patients, insurers, and employers. The 'transfer effect' must be accounted for in hospital benchmarking tools to ensure accurate representation of quality care.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 9, 2003
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Anthropologist predicts major threat to species within 50 years

A recent study by Ohio State University anthropologist Jeffrey McKee predicts that the United States will face a significant threat to global biodiversity within 50 years, with at least 10 additional species added to the threatened list. The prediction is based on a model that separates human population growth from environmental impact...

SourceOhio State University·JournalBiological Conservation·DateJun 9, 2003