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Science News Archive October 2003 - Page 4


Page 4 of 10

Shape of beverage glass influences how much people pour and drink

A study by Brian Wansink found that the shape of a beverage glass can alter how much people pour and drink, with taller glasses leading to overconsumption. In three experiments involving teenagers, adults, and bartenders, Wansink discovered that participants consistently underestimated the volume of liquids in shorter, wider glasses.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateOct 22, 2003

Are walruses right-handed?

Researchers observed walruses using four different foraging techniques: beating their right flipper, left flipper, water-jet from their mouth, and rooting through sediment with their muzzle. They found that 66% of the time they used their right flipper, and this preference was consistent in skeletons analyzed.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Ecology·DateOct 22, 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.

Study finds VA maintained quality despite shift to outpatient care

Researchers studied 342,300 chronically ill veterans to track health care and survival between 1994-1998. Patient survival rates remained largely unchanged, while hospital stays fell by 50% and outpatient care increased moderately.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 22, 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.

Research collaboration identifies gene essential to puberty

Researchers from MGH and Paradigm Therapeutics have identified the GPR54 gene as a key trigger of the hormonal cascade required for mammalian reproduction. The discovery could lead to new treatments for infertility and abnormal puberty, among other applications.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 22, 2003

Common drug, given promptly, reduces incidence of post-traumatic stress disorder, small study finds

A new study suggests that propranolol can reduce the incidence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in trauma victims if administered promptly. The medication, commonly used to treat anxiety and high blood pressure, was found to decrease PTSD symptoms by half compared to those who did not receive it.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateOct 22, 2003

Multiphoton microscope observes cell membrane action

Researchers use multiphoton microscopy to watch cell membranes reshaping themselves into two-dimensional liquid phases, or 'rafts', and find that thermal energies influence membrane geometries. The study provides new insights into the functions of cell membranes and their importance to human health.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateOct 22, 2003

Dads and cads: U-M study tests female preferences for partners

A University of Michigan study found that women prefer men who are dominant and promiscuous (cads) for short-term relationships, but kind and monogamous (dads) for long-term ones. The 'sexy son hypothesis' suggests that this preference may be evolutionary in nature.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalHuman Nature·DateOct 22, 2003
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Evidence that neurons prune only 'twigs' to rewire themselves

Researchers studied neurons in the olfactory bulb and found that they only undergo subtle changes in response to environmental stimuli. These findings challenge previous theories of brain rewiring and may offer insights into disorders such as epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateOct 22, 2003

Stowers Institute researchers identify stem cell niche

Researchers at the Stowers Institute have identified a key component of the hematopoietic stem cell niche, which supports their self-renewal and production of blood cells. The study found that interrupting a specific signaling pathway can increase the size of the niche and the number of stem cells produced.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalNature·DateOct 22, 2003

Kolodzy leads group in National Science Foundation grant

The project aims to develop new solutions to major wireless communications problems using advanced devices and software. Professor Dirk Grunwald of the University of Colorado at Boulder leads the networking component, focusing on building a new kind of wireless network that leverages radio-level decisions for efficient communication.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·DateOct 22, 2003

Bone cells help call the shots for the blood's stem cells within

Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center have identified a key role for bone-forming osteoblasts in controlling the expansion of blood-forming stem cells. The discovery could lead to new treatments for bone marrow-transplant patients, who often face challenges due to limited stem cell availability.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNature·DateOct 22, 2003

New genomic data helps resolve biology's tree of life

A team of scientists from the University of Wisconsin-Madison has made a breakthrough in resolving the evolutionary tree using new genomic-scale data. By analyzing eight yeast species, they found that combining more than 100 genes provides an unprecedented level of resolution, overcoming previous limitations.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature·DateOct 22, 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.

Saliva spits out information on chemical exposure

Researchers have developed a technology that can detect chemical contaminants in saliva, enabling rapid diagnosis of pesticide exposure and potential nerve gas poisoning. The innovation could be used to monitor farm workers and diagnose accidents or terrorist attacks.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateOct 22, 2003

Heart risks more likely if hostility increases with age

Research suggests that men and women who experience an increase in hostile feelings from late teens to late 40s may double their risk of obesity, depression and poor social support. The study also found that hostility levels in college can predict unhealthy behaviors up to 30 years later.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateOct 22, 2003

FDA approves new HIV protease inhibitor, Lexiva (TM)

Lexiva demonstrated durable anti-viral response through 48 weeks, significantly less grade 2-4 drug-related diarrhea than nelfinavir. In PI-experienced patients, Lexiva/r showed fewer nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) mutations after virologic failure compared to lopinavir/ritonavir.

SourcePublic Communications Inc.·DateOct 21, 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.

New drug proves helpful for treating long-term insomnia

A six-month study found that eszopiclone significantly improved patients' ability to fall asleep, stay asleep, and function well during the day. The results suggest eszopiclone has potential as a long-term treatment option for chronic insomnia.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalSLEEP·DateOct 21, 2003

Gene controls age at onset of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases

Researchers identified a single gene, glutathione S-transferase omega-1 (GSTO1), as a key factor influencing the age of onset for both Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. The study used genomic convergence to narrow down the genome region associated with age at onset, providing potential new targets for treatment.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalHuman Molecular Genetics·DateOct 21, 2003
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

NHLBI study finds hostility, impatience increase hypertension risk

A recent NHLBI study found that hostility and impatience are associated with a higher risk of developing high blood pressure. The study, which followed over 3,000 young adults for 15 years, found that those who exhibited higher levels of time urgency and hostility had an increased risk of developing hypertension.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalJAMA·DateOct 21, 2003

U.S. blacks five times as likely as whites to progress to kidney failure

Researchers found that while black and white Americans have the same amount of early kidney disease, black patients are five times more likely to progress to end-stage renal disease. This disparity may be due to differences in blood pressure control, quality of care, and access to healthcare.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateOct 21, 2003

Beckman Laser Institute to improve breast cancer detection

Researchers at the Beckman Laser Institute are developing a laser-based technology to detect and analyze tumors, providing detailed information on blood, fat, and water composition. The center aims to transform this cutting-edge science into a versatile tool for cancer research.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateOct 21, 2003

A new molecular culprit for type II diabetes, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's

Researchers have discovered that smaller protein structures called protofibrils are more toxic to cells than mature fibrils in type II diabetes and other age-related diseases. The study suggests that targeting earlier stages of protofibril formation may be a more effective approach to developing treatments.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalBiochemistry·DateOct 21, 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.

Grant promotes marine ornamental fish aquaculture

The Florida Sea Grant is supporting research to develop more efficient methods for raising marine ornamental fish, such as angelfish and anemonefish. This focus on sustainable aquaculture aims to reduce the industry's impact on coral reefs and promote environmentally friendly practices.

SourceFlorida Institute of Technology·DateOct 21, 2003

New drug for non-small cell lung cancer shows efficacy

Gefinitib, a designer drug targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor, has shown efficacy in treating advanced non-small cell lung cancer. In a phase II clinical trial, 43% of patients experienced symptom improvement and 12% showed partial radiographic responses.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalJAMA·DateOct 21, 2003

UCLA helping nurses quit smoking

A nationwide initiative aims to support nursing staff in quitting smoking, with $100 free services and partnerships with organizations. The program seeks to expand nursing leadership in tobacco control, addressing a long-standing barrier in the profession.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·DateOct 21, 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.

Doped liquid crystals allow real time holography

Researchers have developed doped liquid crystals that allow for real-time holography with significantly improved optical properties. These materials can be used in various applications, including focusing optical telescopes and creating real-time holographic movies, due to their high sensitivity to light.

SourcePenn State·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 21, 2003

Outbreak of foodborne botulism traced from food sold at Texas salvage store

A recent investigation found that a Texas salvage store was the source of a foodborne botulism outbreak. Food safety experts advise customers to inspect packaging for signs of decay and spoilage, as well as to maintain standards of health when shopping at any facility.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateOct 21, 2003

Brain may 'hard-wire' sexuality before birth

A UCLA study found 54 genes produced differently in male and female mouse brains prior to hormonal influence, suggesting genetic influences on sexual differences. The research may help explain why people feel male or female and inform the development of treatments for intersex infants.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalMolecular Brain Research·DateOct 21, 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.

Who enrolls in clinical oncology trials?

A recent study found that practice type and patient race are significant predictors of enrollment in clinical trials. Academic settings and white patients showed higher rates of trial participation, while non-academic sites and African-Americans had lower rates.

SourceFox Chase Cancer Center·DateOct 21, 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.

Arsenic remedy for arsenic poisoning?

Researchers at University of Kalyani discovered that homeopathic remedy Arsenicum Album can reduce liver damage in mice with arsenic poisoning. The treatment showed positive effects in both low and high doses, suggesting its potential to address the global health issue of arsenic contamination.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine·DateOct 21, 2003

U of Minnesota receives NSF grant to sequence bacterial genome

The University of Minnesota has received a grant to sequence the complete genome of Arthrobacter aurescens, a soil bacterium that can break down environmental pollutants. The project aims to gain tools, such as genes and enzymes, to clean up contaminated environments.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·DateOct 20, 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.

Drug may treat previously incurable brain cancer, say Stanford researchers

A new combination treatment using arsenic trioxide and radiation has shown promising results in treating glioblastoma, a previously incurable form of brain cancer. The study found that exposing glioblastoma cells to radiation within two hours of receiving a dose of arsenic trioxide amplified the effects of radiation treatment on its own.

SourceStanford Medicine·DateOct 20, 2003

New research links lung cancer screening to accelerated rates of smoking cessation

A new study by Georgetown University Medical Center researchers found that low-dose CT screenings can accelerate smoking cessation rates by 14%, significantly higher than the national average. This promising finding suggests it's never too late to treat nicotine dependence, and further research may lead to more effective interventions.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalCancer·DateOct 20, 2003

Mix of factors related to exercise among minority women

A three-year study of 4,122 women from diverse backgrounds found that age, confidence, and social connections play significant roles in exercise behavior. However, unexpected factors such as family size and religious attendance also influenced physical activity levels.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateOct 20, 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.

Imperial researchers show novel flu treatment eliminates symptoms in mice

Researchers at Imperial College London have developed a novel flu treatment that can eliminate symptoms by targeting the overactive immune response. The treatment, which works by selectively reducing the response of active T white blood cells, has shown promising results in mice and may offer new hope for pandemic prevention.

SourceImperial College London·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateOct 20, 2003

Increasing MRSA in California jails

A six-year study of MRSA in California jails found that two dominant S. aureus clonal groups, ST30:Z and ST8:S, drove the expansion in resistance, gaining multi-drug resistance over time. The study highlights the need to track the spread of individual strains using techniques like PFGE and MLST.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateOct 20, 2003

Fighting the side effects of radiation

Brain cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy are at risk of life-threatening infections due to suppressed immune systems. Researchers found that monitoring immune cell counts and administering prophylactic antibiotics can prevent these side effects, with no patient developing pneumonia or other serious infections in the study.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·DateOct 20, 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.

Who moved my cheese!?

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory found that rats can rapidly and accurately discriminate odors with just one sniff. The study, led by Zach Mainen, reveals vital new information about how the human brain processes information and guides behavior, suggesting that smell is a fast sense rather than a slow one.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateOct 20, 2003

Leisure activity may reduce risk of Alzheimer's, says USC research team

A study by USC researchers found that engaging in leisure activities can lower the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Among female twin pairs, those who participated frequently in intellectually stimulating activities showed a reduced risk of Alzheimer's. The research controlled for genetics and early life experiences.

SourceThe Gerontological Society of America·DateOct 20, 2003
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.