Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Science News for November 24, 2003


Helping carnivores and people co-exist

Researchers find that movement-activated guards deter predators from feeding by up to two-thirds, offering a non-lethal alternative to lethal control methods. The study suggests promoting coexistence between humans and large carnivores through real-world problem-solving.

SourceSociety for Conservation Biology·JournalConservation Biology·DateNov 24, 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.

New test may diagnose heart disease risk better

A new UCLA test measures HDL cholesterol's ability to reduce inflammation, potentially better predicting heart disease risk. The study found that patients with pro-inflammatory HDL had a higher risk of heart disease despite normal or high cholesterol levels.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·DateNov 24, 2003

Vindication for Vinland map: New study supports authenticity

A new study published in Analytical Chemistry challenges the idea that the Vinland Map is a medieval forgery, instead suggesting that its ink composition supports its authenticity. The research finds that the map's ink contains elements consistent with medieval production methods, raising doubts about the possibility of forgery.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateNov 24, 2003
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Urban black bears becoming couch potatoes, study says

Black bears in urban areas are spending less time hunting and more time eating human trash. The study found that these bears are becoming overweight and less active due to increased availability of food sources like garbage. Local ordinances can help mitigate conflicts by mandating bear-proof garbage containers.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalJournal of Zoology·DateNov 24, 2003

After bypass surgery, women have worse quality of life than men

A Duke University Medical Center study found that women undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery exhibit poorer quality-of-life outcomes compared to men. After statistical adjustments for preoperative risk factors, the researchers discovered that women were at a higher risk of mental difficulties and anxiety following the procedure.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateNov 24, 2003

Tracking the illegal ivory trade

Researchers developed a genetic test to distinguish African elephant tusks from different parts of Africa, with 80-95% accuracy. This test can help law enforcers pinpoint where poaching is heaviest, increasing ivory seizure rates and deterring poachers.

SourceSociety for Conservation Biology·JournalConservation Biology·DateNov 24, 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.

Tip sheet for the November 25, 2003 Neurology journal

A recent Neurology journal study has identified levodopa addiction in non-parkinsonian patients, suggesting the potential for addiction to this common Parkinson's disease treatment. Additionally, researchers have discovered RNA gene slicing mutations in McArdle patients, revealing new insights into neuromuscular diseases.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateNov 24, 2003

Breastfed infants show little effect when moms take anti-depressant

Research conducted by Yale University found that most breastfed infants experience little decline in blood serotonin levels after their mothers take Prozac. The study suggests that women should weigh factors such as postpartum depression severity and breastfeeding commitment when considering antidepressant medication.

SourceYale University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateNov 24, 2003

Natural scenes calm drivers more than city views, study finds

Researchers found that viewers of a scenic parkway video scored lower on a test of frustration and worked almost a minute longer on an unsolvable anagram puzzle compared to those who watched videos of urban driving experiences. The study suggests nature can have a calming effect on drivers.

SourceOhio State University·JournalEnvironment and Behavior·DateNov 24, 2003

Self-management program helps patients with acute low back pain

A self-management program developed by Indiana University researchers significantly reduced disability, improved mental functioning, and increased physical activity among patients with acute low back pain. The program focused on boosting patient confidence and motivation to incorporate daily activities that alleviate symptoms.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 24, 2003

Study shows combining gene therapy and radiation holds promise

A study published in Cancer Research found that combining gene therapy and radiation therapy showed significant declines in PSA levels and eliminated cancer in many patients. The novel treatment has shown promise in treating aggressive prostate cancer, but more research is needed before it can be widely adopted.

SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalCancer Research·DateNov 24, 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.

Most hospitals don't use latest ordering technology

CPOE reduces medical errors by improving communication and order tracking, but its use is hindered by implementation difficulties. Silent errors occur due to system design disconnects, including data entry and retrieval issues, and loss of face-to-face interactions.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalJournal of the American Medical Informatics Association·DateNov 24, 2003

Does shade coffee help or hinder conservation?

Researchers argue that shade coffee farming can help protect bird species, but also poses a risk of accelerating forest clearance if not done sustainably. The Society for Conservation Biology examines the benefits and drawbacks of this traditional farming method.

SourceSociety for Conservation Biology·JournalConservation Biology·DateNov 24, 2003

Marine pathogens spread much faster than their terrestrial counterparts

A new study reveals that marine epidemics spread approximately 100 times faster than comparable terrestrial epidemics. This faster rate of spread is attributed to the lack of barriers to pathogen dispersal in marine environments and better long-term survival of mobile infectious stages.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalEcology Letters·DateNov 24, 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.

2003 Hurricane season: USWRP research led to more accurate track forecasts

The USWRP's improvements to the global computer forecast model developed at NOAA's Environmental Modeling Center have led to a significant boost in hurricane track forecast accuracy. Since 2000, NHC forecasts have benefited from these advancements, predicting Atlantic tropical cyclones' tracks about 35% more accurately than prior to 2000.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateNov 24, 2003

Soil fungi affect parasitism of foliage-feeding insects

Research reveals strong interactions between four trophic levels, showing soil fungi impact plant growth and alter attack rates of insect pests. This finding highlights the interconnectedness of species in natural communities, with implications for conservation and pest control.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalEcology Letters·DateNov 24, 2003

Patients starting cholesterol-lowering drugs in hospital take meds longer

Researchers found that patients starting lipid-lowering therapy in the hospital were nearly three times as likely to continue taking their medication six months later. This suggests that hospital-based initiation of treatment can improve adherence and is an effective strategy for enhancing long-term use.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 24, 2003

Suicidal minority teens lack adult support

A study found that suicidal minority teens often lack adult support, with 15% considering suicide in the past year and 11% attempting it. Latino girls and LGBTQ+ teens are disproportionately affected, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Behavior·DateNov 24, 2003
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.

Endangered species listings may backfire

A new study found that listing endangered species may not effectively protect their habitats on private property. Landowners were more likely to improve or destroy habitats based on their values and perception of conservation responsibility.

SourceSociety for Conservation Biology·JournalConservation Biology·DateNov 24, 2003

Effects of maternal myasthenia gravis on pregnancy and birth examined

Women with myasthenia gravis are at increased risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth, including higher rates of cesarean section and preterm rupture of amniotic membranes. However, neonatal deaths and prematurity were not significantly affected by the condition.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateNov 24, 2003

Researchers probe how young consumers learn to use and misuse credit cards

Researchers have developed a conceptual model examining how young people learn to use and abuse credit cards. They found that parents have the greatest influence on a young person's credit card behavior, with children learning from direct teaching and modeling of their own behavior. The study highlights the importance of understanding ...

SourcePenn State·DateNov 24, 2003

Cows as unravellers

Cattle introduction modifies frequent interactions between plants and pollinators, affecting web structure. This modification is likely important for ecosystem function.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalEcology Letters·DateNov 24, 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.

New USC process offers faster, cheaper 3D 'printouts'

Professor Behrokh Khoshnevis has developed a new machine that can produce 3D 'printouts' in plastic and metal more quickly and cheaply than existing systems. The 'Selective Inhibition of Sintering' (SIS) process uses high heat to melt only selected areas, reducing energy intensity and cost.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateNov 24, 2003