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Science News Archive November 2003


Page 9 of 10

Hot cocoa tops red wine and tea in antioxidants; may be healthier choice

Cocoa has been found to have the highest antioxidant content among hot water-based beverages, surpassing red wine and green tea. A study comparing the total antioxidant content of these drinks revealed that hot cocoa contains almost twice as many antioxidants as red wine and up to five times more than black tea.

Among elderly, depression more prevalent in Hispanics and blacks

A recent study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that major depression was most prevalent among Hispanics, followed by African Americans and whites. The odds of depressive disorders were significantly higher among older Hispanics due to caregiving responsibilities.

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.

Thunderstorm research shocks conventional theories

Scientists have searched for large electric fields in thunderstorms without success. Dwyer's new theory shows that the atmosphere can only hold a certain sized electric field, stunted by gamma-rays and positrons. The triggering mechanism of lightning remains a mystery.

Overweight boys outweigh girls in stress response, study finds

Researchers found that overweight boys experience greater increases in blood pressure during stress, but their ability to restore normal pressures is impaired. In contrast, overweight girls have a more effective natural mechanism for reducing blood pressure, which may be attributed to the effects of estrogen.

Isotopes from feathers reveal bird migration

Researchers are using stable isotopes in bird feathers to track migration patterns and wintering grounds, revealing previously unknown information about bird dispersal. This technique provides a faster and more cost-effective alternative to traditional methods like banding, allowing scientists to gather data on a wider scale.

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.

PET scan predicts Alzheimer's more accurately

A new study reveals that PET scans can significantly improve the accuracy of predicting Alzheimer's disease progression in patients with early memory complaints. By analyzing brain metabolic patterns, doctors can better diagnose and intervene earlier, potentially delaying cognitive decline.

Autoantibodies precede disease in lupus patients

Researchers found that lupus patients' autoantibodies accumulated in the blood in a predictable pattern before diagnosis, slowing down after therapy. The study's findings may help identify and monitor people at risk of developing autoimmune diseases like lupus.

Report gives NIH-sponsored clinical research a good report card

A recent report assesses NIH-sponsored clinical research, revealing notable advancements but also areas that require improvement. The report highlights the impact of competitive loan-relief programs, increased private funding, and initiatives like the Training Curriculum in Patient-Oriented Research.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Placental malaria increases mother-to-child HIV transmission

A study published in AIDS found that placental malaria significantly increases the risk of mother-to-child HIV transmission. The study, which followed 746 HIV-positive mothers and their infants in Rakai, Uganda, suggests that preventing and treating malaria during pregnancy could reduce transmission rates.

New findings help predict soil production and erosion

New study by Benjamin Burke and Arjun Heimsath predicts future soil production and erosion in similar landscapes, supporting previous research on chemical weathering's role. The researchers studied three sites in Australia and California, finding variability in chemical and physical weathering processes across small areas.

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.

Computer model offers new tool to probe Woburn toxic waste site

A new computer model developed at Ohio State University provides a detailed understanding of how municipal wells in Woburn, Massachusetts, came to be contaminated with toxic chemicals. The results suggest that the contaminants likely originated from industrial properties and flowed into the nearby Aberjona River, raising concerns about...

New pathway found to enhance cancer treatment

Researchers at DMS have found that removing RIP140 allows retinoids to effectively differentiate cancer cells, slowing tumor growth and increasing the efficacy of cancer treatment. This breakthrough sheds light on the potential benefits of retinoid-based therapies for various types of cancer.

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.

Direct link found between chronic inflammation, colon cancer

Chronic inflammation has been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer, with oxidative stress playing a key role in the development of genetic mutations. Researchers found that DNA damage caused by malondialdehye can lead to frameshift mutations, which may contribute to colorectal cancer.

Whole tomato powder effective in preventing prostate cancer

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that rats fed whole tomato powder had a 26% lower risk of prostate cancer death compared to those on control diets. The researchers suggest that whole tomato products and energy balance may offer independent benefits against prostate cancer.

Exercise, not diet, may be best defense against heart disease

A study of 9,790 participants found that exercising more and eating a balanced diet reduced cardiovascular mortality rates by over half. Those who were overweight or obese but exercised less faced increased cardiovascular risks, even if they ate fewer calories.

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.

Explanation offered for Antarctica's 'blood falls'

Researchers from Ohio State University discovered that Blood Falls is the last remnant of an ancient salt-water lake, formed when sea levels were higher. The lake probably existed 5 million years ago, and its remains are being slowly pushed out by the glacier.

Study explores safety of low-dose radiation

Researchers are studying the effects of low doses of radiation on zebrafish embryos to understand DNA damage and repair mechanisms. The study aims to determine the threshold for damage and whether certain genes and proteins can prevent or repair damage, with potential implications for human health.

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.

Summa Health System improves stroke care using ace model of care

Summa Health System's ACE model of care enhances stroke care by focusing on comprehensive assessment, function-oriented patient-centered care, and interdisciplinary team management. The system's dedicated 34-bed stroke unit discharges nearly 1,000 patients annually, making it the largest provider of stroke care in Northeast Ohio.

Gender differences in brain response to pain

Researchers found that men's brains showed greater activity in cognitive regions when given pain stimuli, while women's brains responded more strongly in limbic regions. These differences may have evolved due to distinct roles of men and women in stress responses, with women's brains being more nurturing and protective.

La Niña influences Amazon flooding

A recent study published in Nature announces a major advance in the study of Amazon Basin's hydrology and geochemistry dynamics. The research partnership has yielded precise measurements of water, sediment, and geochemical inputs contributed by the Amazon's main tributaries.

Natural disasters illuminated by B-movie clips

The Penn State Earth 101 course uses B-movie clips to engage students in learning about natural disasters, promoting critical thinking and science-based decision-making. Students work on projects such as public affairs manuals for cities with earthquake histories, debating topics like government response to natural disasters.

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.

Dietary supplement many not lower prostate cancer risk

Researchers at Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center found that a diet rich in whole tomatoes, but not supplements, was associated with longer survival rates and reduced risk of prostate cancer. The study also showed that energy restriction did not offer additional benefits over a balanced diet.

Red sea urchins found to live up to 200 years

Researchers from Oregon State University and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory found red sea urchins can live for over 200 years, defying previous seven-15 year lifespan estimates. The study used two techniques to determine ages, producing consistent results that show no signs of senescence until death.

Anti-platelet drug blocks bone metastases in mice

Researchers found that an anti-platelet drug, ML464, blocked bone metastases and reduced new tumor development in mice. The study provides a promising start to exploring the use of anti-platelet drugs as potential therapies for breast and prostate cancer.

Articles on life in tropical island streams published in BioScience

The BioScience special section examines the ecology and sustainability of tropical island streams, which face numerous threats including human alteration and natural fluctuations. The articles highlight conservation strategies to mitigate the effects of dams, deforestation, and invasive species on these ecosystems.

Sand ripples taller on Mars

Ripple features on Mars have been found to be almost 20 feet high, much taller than those on Earth, with the exact heights and grain sizes still unknown. The dimensions of these Martian ripples are likely influenced by lower gravity and may reveal insights into local and regional weather patterns.

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.

Debate heats up on role of climate in human evolution

A symposium explores how climate change influenced brain development, tool use, and migration patterns of early humans. Leading scientists discuss the impact of glacial periods on human populations, with findings suggesting that water availability played a critical role in shaping human evolution.

Water on the Gaza Strip: Time bomb or ray of hope?

The Gaza Strip's groundwater is becoming contaminated with salts and nitrates due to over-pumping, threatening the water supply. A joint study suggests tapping into saline water from Israel and desalinating it could help preserve freshwater resources and alleviate pressure on the aquifer.

Gene therapy establishes a TRAIL to arthritis treatment

Researchers developed gene therapy using dendritic cells pulsed with TRAIL to inhibit collagen-induced arthritis. The treatment reduced T cell infiltration and inflammation, suggesting a safe and effective method for inhibiting arthritis development.

Annals of Internal Medicine, tip sheet, November 4, 2003

A new study highlights the need for improved care of vulnerable older adults with conditions such as bedsores and incontinence. Leech therapy shows promise in relieving pain from osteoarthritis, but more research is needed to determine its effectiveness.

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.

Distinct genes influence Alzheimer's risk at different ages

A recent study identified distinct genes linked to late-onset Alzheimer's disease in families with average age at onset of 80 years or older. The researchers also found a region on chromosome 2 associated with early-onset Alzheimer's disease between ages 50 and 60.

JCI Table of Contents, November 3, 2003

Researchers successfully used gene-modified dendritic cells to induce apoptosis in collagen-specific T cells, reducing arthritis incidence and severity. Additionally, stem cell factor was found to drive hepatocyte proliferation after liver resection, while VLA-1 expression is crucial for T cell memory of previously encountered antigens.

Variants of BMP2 gene as genetic risk factors for osteoporosis

A study identified variants of the BMP2 gene as genetic risk factors for osteoporosis, approximately tripling the likelihood of developing the disease. The findings were replicated in an independent cohort, suggesting a strong association between the gene's variants and increased risk of osteoporotic fractures.

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.

Purdue engineers: Metal nano-bumps could improve artificial body parts

Researchers at Purdue University have created a new type of metal alloy with nanometer-scale bumps that can stimulate the body to regrow bone and other tissues. This technology has the potential to improve artificial body parts, such as hip replacements, by reducing the rate of rejection and failure.

GAD2 as a candidate gene for obesity

Researchers found a genetic link between GAD2 variants and obesity. The study suggests that overexpression of the GAD2 gene may increase GABA levels in the hypothalamus, leading to increased orexigenic effects and overeating.

Women's symptoms are new or different

A new study investigates women's experience with heart attacks, revealing a wide range of symptoms that can indicate the disease. The research aims to improve early detection and prevent cardiac events in women.

Outpatient pediatric visits good opportunity to help parents quit smoking

Studies show that outpatient-visit counseling can be an effective way to help parents quit smoking, with 78% of participants enrolling in nicotine replacement therapy and 42% receiving additional counseling. The interventions were well-received by parents, with 90% finding the program useful and wanting it offered to all smoking parents.

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.

Stem cell factor: Secret to liver's fountain of youth

Researchers found that stem cell factor (SCF) levels change significantly after partial hepatectomy, and SCF administration restores hepatocyte proliferation in mice with IL-6 knockout. This suggests SCF plays a crucial role in liver regeneration.

Students of mixed races report suffering more health problems

Adolescents of mixed races report more health problems, including smoking, drinking, and poor school experiences. Stress and lack of self-esteem are believed to contribute to these issues, highlighting the need for targeted programs to support biracial adolescents.

Lesser amount of patching effective for treating lazy eye in children

A new randomized clinical trial found that patching therapy for lazy eye in children can be as effective with six-hour treatment regimens as full-time regimens. The study suggests this change may lessen the risk of patching-induced amblyopia, benefiting many children with severe degrees of amblyopia.

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.

Physics tip sheet #38 - November 3, 2003

A new semiconductor material can lead to solar cells with higher efficiency, while a study on magnetic memory devices suggests they could speed up by a factor of 1000. Researchers also found that certain interactions between molecules can create negative friction, which could have applications in fields like photosynthesis and nanoscal...

NIH establishes Rare Diseases Clinical Research Network

The NIH has established a network of clinical research centers focused on rare diseases, aiming to accelerate diagnosis and treatment. The RDCRCs will facilitate data sharing and collaboration among investigators and patient support groups to improve lives and potentially prevent or eliminate these diseases.

Children with HIV more likely to utilize health services than infected adults

A recent study published by Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals that children with HIV are more likely to visit healthcare providers and receive outpatient care compared to adults. The study found that 90% of HIV-infected children receive antiretroviral medications, highlighting the need for improved access to services.