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Science News Archive May 2003 - Page 9


Page 9 of 11

Americans pay more for health care but receive less in return

A study found that US per capita health spending rose to $4,631 in 2000, significantly higher than other OECD nations. The researchers also discovered that the US spent 13% of its GDP on healthcare, with private financing accounting for a majority of public funds.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMay 6, 2003

CT-guided interventional procedures

A study of 120 patients found that less than 3% required surgical treatment after CT-guided interventional procedures. The procedure was effective in reducing analgesic drug consumption and may be used as a complement to physical therapy.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·DateMay 6, 2003

Diabetes complications blur the vision of many latinos

A landmark study conducted by the University of Southern California found that nearly two-thirds of Latino participants with diabetes were not following American Diabetes Association guidelines for vision care, leading to higher rates of diabetic retinopathy, early macular degeneration, and glaucoma among this ethnic group.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateMay 6, 2003

Modified adenovirus offers new approach to treating aggressive brain tumors

A modified adenovirus, Delta-24-RGD, has shown improved infectivity and replication efficiency compared to the unmodified Delta-24. This leads to increased cytopathic effects and prolonged survival rates in mouse models of human glioma. The authors conclude that Delta-24-RGD may be an effective agent in treating gliomas.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMay 6, 2003
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Troubling news about sea otter deaths

A new UC Davis analysis reveals that adult sea otters in California are dying at an alarming rate due to diseases and parasites. The study found that nearly two-thirds of the otters died from disease, with parasitic infections being a major cause, including thorny-headed worms and protozoa.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalJournal of Wildlife Diseases·DateMay 6, 2003

Johns Hopkins researchers devise methods to evaluate disaster drills

Researchers created a set of tools to evaluate disaster drills in four parts: command and control, out-of-hospital care, in-hospital care, and system integration. The methods are designed to be practical for disaster planners worldwide, particularly in developing countries disproportionately affected by disasters.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateMay 6, 2003

Brookhaven Lab and NREL win Technology Transfer Award

Researchers at Brookhaven Lab and NREL developed a polyphenylenesulfide (PPS) coating system to address corrosion issues in geothermal power plants. The coating system has shown dramatic improvements in bonding, durability, and service lifetime compared to competitive coatings.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·DateMay 6, 2003

Insulin-degrading enzyme may affect risk of Alzheimer’s disease

A study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found a relationship between insulysin and Alzheimer's disease. The researchers discovered that even partial decreases in insulysin activity raised amyloid-beta peptide levels in the brain, increasing the risk of Alzheimer's.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 6, 2003

Arsenic in New England wells more widespread than thought

A USGS study reveals elevated arsenic concentrations in private wells are prevalent and pose a health threat to the public. The study focused on eastern New England, where high-growth suburban areas rely heavily on private wells, leading to increased risks.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMay 6, 2003
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.

Scientists to probe giant storm clusters across midwest

BAMEX will investigate how damaging winds unfold at night, when low-level air cools and stabilizes. The study aims to improve forecast warnings for high winds produced by bow echoes and heavy rains triggered by mesoscale convective systems.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateMay 6, 2003
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.

Whole body PET proves accurate in detecting breast cancer spread

A recent study shows that whole body PET scans are twice as sensitive as CT scans in detecting breast cancer spread, with a higher accuracy rate of 93% compared to 46%. This breakthrough technology also offers less radiation exposure to patients, making it a more efficient and safer option.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·DateMay 6, 2003

Study discovers key to baby-like skin

A new study by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center shows that leaving vernix on newborn skin can improve hydration, reduce scaly texture, and promote a faster decrease in pH. The researchers hope to develop a synthetic equivalent for use in various applications, including wound dressings and medication delivery systems.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·DateMay 6, 2003

Canadian Pacific Railway's streamlined RR scheduling wins Tech World Series

Canadian Pacific Railway has developed a fixed-schedule operating plan that optimizes traffic patterns, resulting in reduced costs, improved service reliability, and increased profitability. The approach also enables better service for customers and sets a new standard for the industry.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·DateMay 6, 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.

Gene newly identified by Columbia researchers may improve hair removal

A newly discovered protein called desmoglein 4 (DSG4) holds cells together as they change into different types of hair follicle cells. The gene's absence leads to thin, sparse hair that breaks easily in people and mice, highlighting its potential role in treating excessive or absent hair growth.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalCell·DateMay 6, 2003

MR should be considered for breast screening of high risk women

A study reviewed the records of 367 high-risk women who underwent MR imaging screening and found that 59 required biopsies, with 17 cases revealing new cancers not detected on mammograms or physical exams. The majority of detected cancers were ductal carcinoma in-situ (DCIS), an early stage of breast cancer.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·DateMay 6, 2003
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.

Stanford study determines cost-effectiveness of lung cancer diagnostic tools

The Stanford study found that FDG-PET is highly effective for lung nodule diagnosis but most cost-effective when used selectively with CT scans. The researchers recommend relying on CT as the initial test for almost all patients and using FDG-PET in cases where the risk of cancer conflicts with CT results.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 5, 2003
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Government's marriage promotion policies likely to fall short

Research finds that promoting marriage may not be an effective solution for women who had children before marriage, as it fails to address the economic disadvantages they face. Women who had children before marriage are more likely to be poor and experience unstable relationships.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSocial Problems·DateMay 5, 2003

Patients not told about risks and benefits of radiology procedures

A recent study reveals that emergency room physicians often fail to inform patients about the risks and benefits of radiology procedures, including abdominal pelvic CT scans. The study found that only 22% of physicians accurately explained the radiation dose, while 74% underestimated it.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·DateMay 5, 2003

U of MN study probes use of antiepileptic drugs in nursing homes

A new study by the University of Minnesota found that 8% of nursing home residents were already taking antiepileptic drugs on admission, while another 3% were prescribed them within three months. The study suggests that many primary care providers underestimate the use of these medications among elderly nursing home residents.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateMay 5, 2003

March of Dimes awards $250,000 prize to pioneers in genetic research

Researchers Ronald M. Evans and Pierre Chambon received the prize for their discovery of nuclear hormone receptors and its impact on human physiology and disease prevention. The award highlights the significance of their work in developing new treatments for cancer, diabetes, and other diseases.

SourceMarch of Dimes Foundation·DateMay 5, 2003

Pregnant African American teens need more calcium for healthy fetal bone development

A retrospective cohort study found that pregnant teens, particularly those from under-resourced backgrounds, require adequate calcium intake to support fetal bone growth. The study's findings suggest a correlation between high maternal dairy consumption and improved fetal bone length and overall nutrition.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMay 5, 2003
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.

MR imaging proves useful in diagnosing some testicular problems

A study of 33 patients found MR imaging to be more effective than ultrasound in diagnosing large lesions and precisely localizing paratesticular lesions. The use of MR imaging as a follow-up to sonography can reduce costs and recovery time associated with unnecessary biopsies or surgical intervention.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·DateMay 5, 2003
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.

Male pregnancy in seahorses may affect formation of new species

Researchers found evidence of sympatric speciation in seahorses due to their size-specific mating practice and disruptive selection. This study suggests that male pregnancy and monogamy may play a key role in creating new species without geographic barriers.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology Research News·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 5, 2003

Without enzyme catalyst, slowest known biological reaction takes 1 trillion years

Researchers have found a biological transformation that occurs at an astonishingly slow rate of 1 trillion years in the absence of an enzyme catalyst. Enzymes can speed up this reaction by millions of times. This discovery provides insight into how natural selection has evolved enzymes to accelerate biochemical processes.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 5, 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.

Older latinos grappling with high rates of vision loss

A comprehensive five-year study tracked causes of blindness and access to eye care among the US Latino population, finding high rates of vision-related problems. The study revealed that Latinos have nearly 18% vision impairment by age 85 and older, with diabetes and cataracts being leading causes.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateMay 5, 2003

Abramson fellow receives award from Society for Pediatric Research

Dr. Coughlin's research involves manipulating immune cells to recognize and kill tumors and viruses, holding promise for cancer treatment and vaccine delivery in children. She will present her work at the Society for Pediatric Research Annual Meeting and receive an award recognizing her leadership and contributions to pediatric research.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateMay 5, 2003

All foods can fit

Researchers found that mixed-diet eaters had higher intakes of essential nutrients like calcium and fiber. The study suggests that people don't have to feel guilty about eating favorite foods as long as they maintain a balanced diet and regular physical activity.

SourceAmerican Dietetic Association·JournalJournal of the American Dietetic Association·DateMay 5, 2003

Cardiac surgeons prove decreased mortality with off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting

A new study by NYU Langone Health's cardiac surgeons found that off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) reduces hospital mortality, stroke risk, and complication rates in high-risk patients with severe aortic atherosclerosis. OPCAB results in lower mortality rates (6.5% vs 11.4%) and shorter hospital stays compared to conventi...

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·DateMay 5, 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.

Army ants have defied evolution for 100 million years

A study by Sean Brady reveals that army ants originated from the same source on Gondwana 100 million years ago, instead of evolving independently on separate continents. The ants' unique characteristics, including nomadic behavior and reproductive adaptation, have remained unchanged over time.

SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 5, 2003

Home environment can be hazardous to children’s health

Studies found that residential injuries accounted for nearly 15% of emergency department visits and 39% of unintentional injury visits between 1993 and 1999. Fatalities due to fires, submersions, or falls were common among young children, with African-American children facing disproportionately higher risks.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·DateMay 5, 2003

For early Lyme disease, 10 days of therapy are as good as 20

A randomized trial found that patients with early Lyme disease and no heart, joint or neurologic abnormalities can be effectively treated with 10 days of doxycycline therapy. The study showed that approximately two-thirds of patients responded to treatment within 20 days.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 5, 2003
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.

Hyperglycemia may increase risk of eye disorder in premature infants

A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine has found a link between hyperglycemia and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in premature infants. Infants with ROP had higher daily blood sugar levels compared to healthy peers, with increased risk almost doubling for each 10 mg/dl increase in average monthly glucose.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Perinatology·DateMay 5, 2003

Exercise may contribute to improved breast cancer survival

A new study found that exercise training improves quality of life and increases survival rates among breast cancer survivors. Regular physical activity can help reduce the negative impact of treatment on cardiopulmonary function, leading to improved overall well-being.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMay 5, 2003

Puerto Rican migrants to NYC engage in riskier drug use

Researchers found that Puerto Rican migrants injected drugs more often and visited shooting galleries, which have higher levels of needle sharing. However, users who remained in Puerto Rico showed similar risky behavior as migrant counterparts who returned to the island, suggesting migrants learned these behaviors in Puerto Rico.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateMay 5, 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.

New MR-guided breast biopsy method is feasible and effective

A new MR-guided breast biopsy method has been developed and tested on 35 patients, achieving high technical success rates. The method uses a stainless steel core biopsy needle with an MR-compatible coaxial device, allowing for accurate targeting of lesions and improved patient outcomes.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·DateMay 5, 2003

When predators attack (each other)

Researchers tracking wolverines in Yellowstone's Greater Ecosystem discovered a rare killing of a wolverine by a black bear. The incident supports the species' fierce and fearless nature.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·DateMay 5, 2003

Bleeding disorder tied to defect in cellular transport mechanism

A study has identified a genetic mutation in MCFD2 that causes a rare bleeding disorder by disrupting the transport of clotting factors V and VIII. The researchers propose a new therapeutic target, suggesting a potential alternative to existing anticoagulants.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 5, 2003

Team jams bacteria 'talk' to boost bio-product yields

Scientists at the University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute have cracked the code on bacterial communication, boosting bio-product yields in fermentation vessels. By understanding how bacteria interact and respond to stress signals, researchers can improve production efficiency and increase product outputs.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Biotechnology Institute·DateMay 5, 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.

Annals of Internal Medicine, tip sheet, May 6, 2003

A study found that 10 days of doxycycline antibiotic therapy is as effective as a 20-day course for early Lyme disease. Additionally, researchers discovered that many people cannot accurately recall if they or family members had skin diseases contraindicating smallpox vaccination, potentially increasing the risk of widespread vaccination.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 5, 2003

Potential for future development of B-cell based therapy for Lupus

Researchers discovered that SpA, a staph protein, causes B cell suicide in mice. Properly dosed injections of SpA may control immune system over-activity and potentially treat lupus. The study provides a promising lead for future development of B-cell based therapy.

SourceAlliance for Lupus Research·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMay 5, 2003