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Science News for November 10, 2003


Some re-established elk herds lack genetic diversity of ancestors

Research at Purdue University found that re-established elk herds in Pennsylvania and California have lost significant amounts of genetic diversity due to poor management and small reintroduction numbers. This loss can make them more vulnerable to environmental changes, highlighting the importance of effective herd management.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Wildlife Management·DateNov 10, 2003
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Bone marrow stem cells build new circulation to lungs

Researchers used endothelial progenitor cells from bone marrow to repair damaged blood vessels in rats with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), reducing systolic pressure and improving microcirculation. The study suggests a regenerative approach that could lead to a new clinical therapy for this devastating disease.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 10, 2003

IU fruit fly scientists capture $20 million grant

The Indiana University-led FlyBase team will develop and maintain the public interface of the database, while the Bloomington Drosophila Stock Center will provide prized Drosophila mutants crucial to various scientific fields. Over 12,000 scientists worldwide have authored papers about Drosophila in the past.

SourceIndiana University·DateNov 10, 2003

Male flesh flies high-speed pursuit of females

Researchers found that male flesh flies radically move their heads while chasing females, but don't necessarily use the high-definition parts of their compound eyes. This unique visual guidance system could help engineers develop better detection systems for aircraft and artillery.

SourceCornell University·DateNov 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.

Studies describe heart disease following smallpox vaccination

A recent study has found a link between smallpox vaccination and rare heart diseases, including pericarditis and myocarditis. Twenty-four cases of these conditions were identified among 37,876 US civilian healthcare workers who received the vaccine as part of a bioterrorism readiness program.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 10, 2003

PET: An effective method to predict breast cancer survival?

Researchers found decreased tumor blood flow correlated significantly with survival in patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The study suggests tumor biology should be an important factor in considering patient response to treatment.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateNov 10, 2003

Experts use technology to research the past

A new three-year project makes 500 mid-Victorian wood engraved illustrations available as a searchable digital web database. The database will include books published in 1862, featuring significant authors like Trollope, and provide insights into 19th-century cultural history and artistic styles.

SourceCardiff University·DateNov 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.

Enzyme revealed that is key to fungus's ability to breach immune system

A study by Duke University researchers found that a fungus's ability to breach the immune system is linked to an enzyme called flavohemoglobin. The team discovered that this enzyme plays a crucial role in defending against nitric oxide produced by the immune system, and that disabling it can significantly reduce fungal virulence.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 10, 2003

Diet high in vitamin C decreases stroke risk, especially among smokers

A study of 5,197 participants found that those with diets high in vitamin C had a 30% lower stroke risk compared to those with low vitamin C intake. Smokers with high vitamin C intake were also significantly less likely to experience a stroke, with a reduced risk of over 70%.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateNov 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.

News tips for Monday, Nov. 10, 2003

Researchers found that women with coronary artery disease and an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator have a lower rate of sustained ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation compared to men. Additionally, automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in health clubs reversed sudden cardiac death in six out of eight victims, supporting the ...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 10, 2003

Study predicts loss of monarch winter refuges

A study predicts that monarch butterfly winter refuges in central Mexico will continue to decline due to increased storms and wet conditions. Human activities such as deforestation and logging further exacerbate the problem, threatening the survival of these iconic butterflies.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 10, 2003

Scientists find brain areas affected by lack of sleep

Research reveals that sleep deprivation impairs certain brain areas, including the cerebral cortex, but also activates others, such as the cerebellum. This study sheds light on the complex role of sleep in cellular function and suggests new possibilities for treating sleep disorders.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateNov 10, 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.

A bird in a tree for biodiversity

A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences documents harm caused by habitat fragmentation to a tree species native to Tanzania. The research found that birds that disperse seeds for the tree are rare or absent in fragmented areas, leading to poor seed regeneration and threatening the tree's survival.

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

Similar outcomes for atrrial fibrillationi patients with congestive heart failure

A study by Duke University Medical Center cardiologists found that patients with atrial fibrillation and congestive heart failure have similar mortality rates when treated with drugs controlling the heart's rhythm compared to those controlling the heart's rate. The study, which analyzed data from over 1,000 patients, also found no diff...

SourceDuke University Medical Center·DateNov 10, 2003

Human senses not distinct, but interact in many ways, studies show

A recent study on sensory interaction found that the brain amplifies information from sight and smell when they fit together well, leading to a stronger perception of odors. Additionally, research on blind individuals revealed that their sense of touch is not inferior to sighted people's, contrary to popular belief.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateNov 10, 2003

New technique helps shed light on progression of dementia

Researchers found that blocking blood flow to the brain, like mini-strokes, can impair mental function by reducing nerve cell fibers that use acetylcholine. This study provides insight into the effects of cerebral blood flow disruption on cognitive decline in dementia, highlighting the importance of maintaining healthy blood vessels.

SourceOhio State University·DateNov 10, 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.

Gene raises risk of neurodevelopmental problems after infant heart surgery

Researchers found that children carrying the APOE2 gene variant were more likely to have worse cognitive and motor skills outcomes after heart surgery. The study, published in the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions, also discovered no association between APOE4 and neurodevelopmental problems in infants.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·DateNov 10, 2003

Daily vitamins could prevent vision loss among thousands

A recent study suggests that daily vitamin supplements can reduce the risk of advanced age-related eye disease (AMD) by 25% and vision loss by 19%. Researchers estimate that 1.3 million adults may develop advanced AMD without treatment, highlighting the importance of regular retina exams.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalArchives of Ophthalmology·DateNov 10, 2003
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.

Bone marrow cells improve failing heart function

Researchers tested mononuclear bone marrow cell transplant injections in patients with severe ischemic heart failure and found improved blood flow, reduced chest pain, and increased exercise capacity. Treated patients showed significant reductions in reversible defects and improvements in oxygen consumption and metabolic equivalents.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 10, 2003

New life-saving heart attack medication identified

A new study found valsartan therapy to be as effective as ACE inhibitors in reducing cardiovascular risk after a heart attack. Combining the two medications showed no additional benefit, but was associated with more adverse events.

SourceChandler Chicco Agency·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 10, 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.

Scientists find brain areas activated in true versus false memories

Researchers have made advances in understanding false memories by identifying brain areas activated in true versus false memories. The right fusiform area was found to be more active in encoding objects that were later labeled as the same as those seen earlier, but less active when they were only similar or actually the same.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateNov 10, 2003

Ancient Maya stone altar recovered in Guatemala

A magnificent Maya altar stone carved in 796 AD has been recovered from a looters' hideout, providing crucial clues about the wealthiest Maya kingdoms. The altar's recovery illustrates the importance of working with indigenous peoples to restore ancient ruins.

SourceVanderbilt University·DateNov 10, 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.

Psychiatric illness and drug abuse common in jailed juveniles

A study by Northwestern University researchers found that nearly a third of jailed teenagers have co-occurring substance abuse disorders and ADHD or behavioral disorders. The authors suggest that mental health professionals must collaborate with the juvenile justice system to improve screening, diversion, and access to treatment.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateNov 10, 2003

New vaccine tested in animals may hold hope for Alzheimer's patients

Researchers have found that a new vaccine can diminish symptoms of Alzheimer's disease by increasing clearance of amyloid beta protein from the brain. The study used monkeys and showed that vaccinating them with synthetic amyloid beta peptide enhanced clearance, leading to reduced plaques and improved cognitive function.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateNov 10, 2003

Researchers to develop new drug to treat myasthenia gravis

Researchers are developing a new drug to treat myasthenia gravis by targeting the nerve-muscle communication point and reducing complement activation. The study aims to provide a more effective treatment with fewer side effects than existing therapies, which have limited success due to their adverse effects.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateNov 10, 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.

Brain signals from the paralyzed or injured captured by computer

Groundbreaking research has developed implantable microelectrode arrays that can record neural sensory responses from paralyzed individuals, allowing for accurate prediction of leg positions. A sterile surgical procedure implants the devices, which track the position of the leg using a digital camera and mathematical analysis.

SourceSociety for Neuroscience·DateNov 10, 2003

Heal thyself: Patients' bone marrow cells restore failing hearts

Researchers have successfully treated heart attack patients with stem cells harvested from their own bone marrow, resulting in improved cardiac function and increased blood flow to the damaged area. This breakthrough therapy could potentially lead to a new treatment for heart attacks.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 10, 2003

Rochester chosen to focus on rare neurological diseases

The Rochester center will focus on three uncommon neurological disorders: periodic paralysis, episodic ataxia, and nondystrophic myotonias. These disorders are caused by abnormal cell channels or gates that regulate crucial chemicals in our cells, leading to symptoms such as paralysis, muscle stiffness, and coordination loss.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·DateNov 10, 2003

Golfing toward a greener environment

Researchers found that tire chips can absorb nitrate, a main chemical in fertilizers, reducing pollution in groundwater. Turfgrass quality was not affected by the rubber layer, suggesting it can be used as a sustainable solution for golf courses.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalWaste Management·DateNov 10, 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.

Gene mutation in rare familial form of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

A new genetic variant has been identified in individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), showing a strong link to the development of the condition in multiple generations. The I425V mutation affects serotonin transporter function and is rare, found in only 7 out of 833 individuals studied.

SourceMolecular Psychiatry·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateNov 10, 2003

Big cut in heart failure problems from one hour of education

A new study found that systolic heart failure patients who received a one-hour education session with a nurse educator had a 35% lower risk of re-hospitalization or death within 180 days of discharge. The patients scored better on measures of following self-care regimens, such as salt and fluid intake restrictions.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateNov 10, 2003

Elements of green tea prevent HIV from binding to human T cells

Researchers found that green tea catechin EGCG effectively prevents HIV from binding to human T cells, a breakthrough in the fight against HIV. Further research is needed to explore the potential clinical application of EGCG as an anti-HIV drug.

SourceAmerican Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateNov 10, 2003
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.

Atacand(R) proven to prevent stroke in the elderly

The SCOPE study found a significant 42% relative risk reduction in fatal/non-fatal strokes in the Atacand group compared to the control group. The study showed that Atacand offers important clinical benefits by reducing the risk of stroke in elderly patients with isolated systolic hypertension.

SourceKetchum UK·DateNov 10, 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.

Study suggests new view of gene activation as a dynamic process

A new study by researchers at The Wistar Institute shows that gene activation is a highly dynamic process requiring specific molecular modifications, including the addition and removal of ubiquitin. This process involves a sequence of events and not just the accumulation of molecular groups.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalGenes & Development·DateNov 10, 2003

One in eight N.C. schoolchildren display three or more heart risks

A recent study found that one in eight North Carolina schoolchildren have three or more heart risks, including low HDL levels and obesity. The researchers attribute this to the prevalence of overweight children among girls, which increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·DateNov 10, 2003