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Science News Archive October 2003 - Page 7


Page 7 of 10

Study finds few substance abuse treatment programs for elders

A recent study found that only 17.7% of eligible substance abuse treatment programs provide specialized care for older adults, despite the increasing number of people over 65 in high-risk states like Iowa, Florida, and Arizona. The study highlights the need for developing strategies to manage late-life alcoholism.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalInternational Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateOct 13, 2003

Study overcomes stroke care's biggest travesty

A three-year community campaign aimed at the public and health professionals increased the use of tPA, a life-saving emergency drug for stroke patients. The study found that 69% of eligible patients received tPA, compared to 2.2% in non-intervention areas.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateOct 13, 2003

Public Library of Science launches PLoS Biology

PLoS Biology features peer-reviewed research articles on diverse topics, making outstanding science freely available worldwide. The journal's open-access model aims to increase interdisciplinary collaboration, speed scientific discovery, and potentially save lives.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 13, 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.

MIT engineers report new approach to tissue engineering

Researchers at MIT have developed a new method for creating tissues from human embryonic stem cells by seeding them onto biodegradable polymer scaffolds. The resulting tissues showed characteristics of developing human cartilage, liver, nerves, and blood vessels.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 13, 2003

Diet may play role in IBS and dyspepsia

Studies link fructose intolerance to IBS symptoms; patients with diet modifications show improved symptoms. Fat consumption is also linked to gastrointestinal disorders, according to a new study.

SourceAmerican College of Gastroenterology·DateOct 13, 2003

MicroRNA targets: How big is the iceberg?

Researchers have used a bioinformatics approach to identify additional microRNA targets in fruit fly Drosophila, increasing the number of known targets from three to over 60. The study provides an important step towards understanding how microRNAs affect protein composition in animal cells.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 13, 2003

Old mosquito theory holds no water

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis found that previous year's drought is the main driver of high mosquito populations in wetlands. This discovery has implications for predicting and controlling diseases like West Nile virus and malaria, which are spread by mosquitoes.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEcology Letters·DateOct 13, 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.

Causal relationship suggested between reflux and sleep apnea

A recent study suggests a causal relationship between gastroesophageal reflux and sleep apnea, potentially revolutionizing treatment approaches for patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. The research used advanced monitoring technology to detect non-acid reflux events that may contribute to sleep apnea and arousals.

SourceAmerican College of Gastroenterology·DateOct 13, 2003

Injection savings could mean better care in ICU

A new study found that administering antibiotics in a syringe pump, rather than by direct injection, can significantly reduce costs. The study also showed that the most expensive antibiotic to administer was Erythromycin, which requires slow infusion time.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalCritical Care·DateOct 13, 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.

Diagnosis: mismanagement

A new model developed by Michael Carter of the University of Toronto has the potential to reduce healthcare costs by $42 billion a year, while providing more services at the same cost. The model uses operations research techniques to optimize hospital operations and improve communication among departments.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·DateOct 13, 2003

Study finds hispanic heart patients have best survival rates

A recent study by the US Department of Veterans Affairs found that Hispanic heart patients had a significant survival advantage compared to their white and African-American counterparts. After adjusting for age and clinical data, Hispanic patients were only about 80% as likely to die as whites or blacks.

SourceUnited States Department of Veterans Affairs·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateOct 13, 2003

Thoughts translate to actions

Miguel Nicolelis and colleagues present results from long-term studies in monkeys, showing that the same set of brain cells can control two distinct movements using a brain-machine interface. This finding has important practical implications for spinal-cord patients, offering flexibility in introducing electrodes or functional enhancem...

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 13, 2003
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study confirms benefits of hemispherectomy surgery

A recent study published in Neurology confirms that 86% of children who underwent hemispherectomy at Johns Hopkins Medicine are either seizure-free or have non-disabling seizures. The surgery improves quality of life and reduces medication dependence.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNeurology·DateOct 13, 2003

Critics are wrong: Suburban residents feel a strong sense of community

A recent study published in the Journal of Planning Education and Research found that suburban residents felt a close sense of community with their neighbors. Despite criticisms that suburbs are cold and sterile, the study refuted these claims by showing that both traditional and suburban neighborhoods can foster strong community bonds.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Planning Education and Research·DateOct 13, 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.

For 'quantum confinement' size matters, but so does shape

The study finds that the shape of a semiconductor nanocrystal can significantly impact its electronic and optical properties. The researchers developed a novel synthesis method to create indium phosphide nanowires with controlled diameters, allowing them to investigate the effect of two-dimensional vs. three-dimensional confinement.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Materials·DateOct 13, 2003

Mild depression breeds prolonged inflammation in caregivers

A study by Ohio State University researchers found that even mild depression in caregivers can lead to increased inflammation, which is associated with various age-related illnesses. Chronic inflammation has been linked to declines in physical function and an increased risk of mortality.

SourceOhio State University·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateOct 13, 2003

Report cites risks associated with over-the-counter cosmetic contact lenses

The American Academy of Ophthalmology reports that unregulated sale of decorative contact lenses poses a grave danger to the public. Six patients experienced vision-threatening problems after wearing lenses purchased from unlicensed vendors, including corneal scarring and bacterial infections.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalEye & Contact Lens Science & Clinical Practice·DateOct 13, 2003

Double trouble: big portions of calorie dense foods

Researchers discovered that portion size and calorie density both contribute to caloric intake, with combined effects leading to a 56% increase. By choosing water-rich foods or smaller portions, individuals can reduce their risk of overeating.

SourcePenn State·DateOct 13, 2003

Mathematical modeling predicts cellular communication

Researchers used mathematical modeling to study the Wnt pathway, a complex signaling system involved in embryonic development and carcinogenesis. The model revealed surprising differences in concentrations of key proteins, suggesting that breakdowns in cellular communication play a role in cancer development.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 13, 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.

New diode could enable faster, more efficient electronics

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new diode that can replace some circuits on a typical chip, simplifying design without compromising performance. The diode conducts 150,000 amps per square centimeter, ideal for low-power devices and medical applications

SourceOhio State University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 13, 2003

Fashionable, nonprescription contact lenses may pose a danger to your eyesight

Nonprescription contact lenses can cause permanent damage, infection and scarring due to ill-fitting design and lack of monitoring by medical professionals. Cosmetic contact lenses sold over-the-counter without a doctor's prescription increase the risk of corneal ulcers and eye infections.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalEye & Contact Lens Science & Clinical Practice·DateOct 13, 2003

Monkeys consciously control a robot arm using only brain signals

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have enabled rhesus monkeys to control a robot arm using only brain signals and visual feedback. The technology could lead to neuroprosthetic limbs for paralyzed people, and improve rehabilitation of those with brain and spinal cord damage.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalPLOS Biology·DateOct 13, 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.

Nerve disorder in mice and men linked to mutated gene

Scientists have discovered two mutations in the ATCAY gene, responsible for Cayman ataxia in humans and similar neurological disorders in mice. The study provides a breakthrough in understanding rare genetic diseases and may lead to diagnostic tests and treatments.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalNature Genetics·DateOct 12, 2003

Mass flowering crops enhance pollinator densities at a landscape scale

Research reveals that mass flowering crops, such as oilseed rape, play a crucial role in enhancing bumblebee densities in agricultural landscapes. Contrary to previous assumptions, the availability of these crops at a landscape scale is essential for supporting pollinator populations.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalEcology Letters·DateOct 10, 2003

Vanished super-ocean or expanding Earth?

A minority view in geology suggests all oceans were closed and the Earth's radius was smaller pre-Jurassic. The study, published in Journal of Biogeography Volume 30 Issue 10, supports this idea.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalJournal of Biogeography·DateOct 10, 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.

Parents favor counseling over meds for kids' anxiety

A study found that parents' attitudes towards social anxiety disorder treatment can significantly impact their children's benefits from therapy. Parents who had used medication or counseling in the past were more favorable towards these treatments, and those with a history of emotional problems preferred counseling.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalJournal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics·DateOct 10, 2003

New Penn study shows genes may influence smoking cessation

Researchers found that specific variants of dopamine transporter and receptor genes associated with higher dopamine levels in the brain facilitated smoking cessation. This study highlights the importance of genetic investigations beyond single gene effects.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalHealth Psychology·DateOct 10, 2003

Mimicking the human body with carbon black polymers

Researchers at NIST created improved phantom materials that can mimic blood, bone, fat, and skin using carbon black powder. These polymers have low-frequency electrical properties and can be formed in various shapes and sizes.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateOct 10, 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.

New gene necessary for plant growth and development discovered

Researchers at UCSD have identified a new gene, SIR1, that regulates the plant hormone auxin, which plays crucial roles in plant development. The discovery has implications for designing environmentally safe herbicides and novel plant structures.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateOct 10, 2003

Helping consumers choose among house repair options

The NEST software program provides cost estimates for homeowners to select the most cost-effective replacement materials for roofing, siding, windows, and garage doors. The program uses a virtual model of the user's home to estimate installation and maintenance costs, as well as monthly financing costs over the product's lifetime.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateOct 10, 2003

Sugar coupled to protein causes kidneys to save water

Scientists discover that linking sugars to aquaporin-2 is essential for water channel transport in the kidneys. This process enables the body to conserve water and prevent dehydration. The study also identifies a new protein, AQP2-BP, that plays a crucial role in aquaporin-2 production.

SourceNetherlands Organization for Scientific Research·DateOct 10, 2003

Highly active compound found in coffee may prevent colon cancer

Researchers identified a specific anticancer compound, methylpyridinium, in coffee with strong antioxidant content, suggesting it may offer protection against colon cancer. Drinking coffee, especially strong espresso-type brews, could provide some level of protection.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateOct 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.

Electronics interconnections for extreme space environments

Materials scientist George Harman suggests using corrosion-resistant metals like gold and newer polymers to create microelectronic interconnections that can withstand extreme temperatures. He also proposes the use of flip chips with gold contacts to produce heat-resistant spacecraft electronics.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateOct 10, 2003

Aging brain reduces ovulation

Research found that aging brains reduce ovulation in women, leading to decreased fertility. The study suggests that high oestrogen levels and decreased LH release contribute to this effect.

SourceNetherlands Organization for Scientific Research·DateOct 10, 2003

Gray wolves feed the masses while hunters feed the few

In a four-year study, scientists found that gray wolves consumed a diverse range of species, promoting ecosystem diversity and health. In contrast, hunter kills were dominated by less mobile scavengers, indicating that hunters have a smaller impact on the Yellowstone ecosystem.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalEcology Letters·DateOct 10, 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.

From genome comparisons, UCSD researchers learn lessons about evolution and cancer

Bioinformaticians at UCSD have identified 400 'fault zones' in the human genome where gene rearrangements are more likely to occur, potentially leading to life-threatening genetic alterations. These findings challenge the long-held random breakage theory of evolution and may provide new insights into breast cancer and other diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalBioinformatics·DateOct 10, 2003

Cow's resistance to worms is genetically determined

A study found that cows can be genetically classified into three groups based on their resistance to intestinal worms. The research suggests that understanding the genetic factors behind this resistance could lead to the development of a vaccine to prevent gastrointestinal worm infections.

SourceNetherlands Organization for Scientific Research·DateOct 10, 2003

Not batty conservation

The current reserve system in the New World is inadequate, with only a tenth of protected areas reaching Disney World's size. Conservation investments may yield greatest impact in ten regions where biodiversity losses can be prevented.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalEcology Letters·DateOct 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.

Attack of the crazy ants - invasional 'meltdown' on an oceanic island

The invasion of Anoplolepis gracilipes on Christmas Island leads to the displacement of a native keystone species, resulting in cascading effects on the food web. The ant's supercolonies extirpate the dominant omnivore, increasing seedling recruitment but slowing litter decomposition.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalEcology Letters·DateOct 10, 2003

Bone cement only controls bacteria for a few days after the operation

Research reveals that bone cement containing antibiotics can effectively control bacterial growth in the immediate vicinity of the implant, but this effectiveness is short-lived. After just a few weeks, the concentration of antibiotics decreases, making it less effective against bacteria.

SourceNetherlands Organization for Scientific Research·DateOct 10, 2003

Rabbit and cow graze together

A study found that rabbits and cows grazing together lead to a diverse range of plants, with prostrate herbs thriving in short vegetation. The presence of rabbits also determines the extent of shrub cover and oak seedling growth.

SourceNetherlands Organization for Scientific Research·DateOct 10, 2003

VIDI awards: Seventy-nine young scientists start their own line of research

The Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research (NWO) has awarded VIDI grants to 79 talented young researchers who have developed innovative scientific research ideas. The successful candidates will receive funding to develop their own research lines, with NWO covering almost 70% of the budget.

SourceNetherlands Organization for Scientific Research·DateOct 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.

Standard improves tests of male DNA

A new Standard Reference Material issued by NIST uses both SNPs and STRs to improve reliability of laboratory analyses of male DNA. The standard consists of six vials of carefully analyzed DNA, providing certified sequences for 22 STR locations and 42 SNPs.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateOct 10, 2003