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Science News for September 29, 2003


Infants can use previous observations to interpret new ones

Researchers found that 12-month-old infants looked longer at the ball approaching a helpful square, indicating they differentiated between the movies. This suggests that infants have ideas about what type of action would be more likely for the ball given its previous interactions.

SourceYale University·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 29, 2003

Scientists estimate risk of raven predation on desert tortoises

Researchers found that common raven populations in the western Mojave Desert have exploded by 1,500 percent, posing a significant threat to young desert tortoises. The study used artificial baits to assess risk of predation and mapped areas with high predation risk, highlighting the importance of safe refuges for tortoises.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalEcology·DateSep 29, 2003
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

NIAID awards $81 million for HIV vaccine development

Four research organizations will receive funding to develop promising HIV vaccine candidates using DNA vaccines, virus vector vaccines, subunit vaccines, and virus-like particle vaccines. Researchers aim to induce strong cellular and antibody immune responses in animal models.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateSep 29, 2003

Trojan Horse technique may slow growth of tumours

A new treatment approach uses a Trojan Horse technique to deliver a radioactive isotope into breast cancer cells, slowing tumour growth. The therapy combines EGF with Indium-111, exploiting the natural uptake of EGF by breast cancer cells.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateSep 29, 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.

University of Toronto professor turns hemp into auto parts

A University of Toronto professor has created a way to turn hemp into strong and lightweight biocomposites. These materials can be used in various applications such as automotive interior parts, structural buildings, sports equipment, and even medical devices like cardiac devices and blood bags.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalMaterials Research Innovations·DateSep 29, 2003

NIAID reports 'tremendous progress' in biodefense research

The NIAID Biodefense Research Agenda has made significant strides in developing vaccines, treatments, and diagnostics for bioterror agents. The Institute has expanded partnerships with industry and academia to accelerate research and development of countermeasures.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateSep 29, 2003

Study offers genetic clues to causes of mysterious skin disease

Researchers have identified over 2,700 genes with unusual activity in people with scleroderma, a mysterious skin disease. The study's findings suggest the disease is systemic, not confined to visible skin patches, and may lead to improved diagnosis and targeted treatment options.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 29, 2003

Marine Corps experience shown to enhance job prospects

A study by Penn State researchers found that employer understanding of the Marine Corps experience is crucial in seeing its value, with those who comprehend core values and life skills leading to higher salary offers. However, a majority of employers lack clear understanding, resulting in no difference being seen between hiring civilia...

SourcePenn State·DateSep 29, 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.

Cleaner chemical processes is goal of new center

The Center for Environmental and Biological Chemistry (CEBC) will focus on developing greener chemical processes, including catalysts for cleaner solvents. Researchers will work with industry partners to create more efficient reactors and reduce waste, aiming to improve the quality of life through cleaner chemicals.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateSep 29, 2003

High blood pressure does not accelerate age-related cognitive decline

Researchers found that middle-aged individuals with high blood pressure perform slower in certain tasks compared to older adults with similar blood pressure levels. Age-related decline in cognitive performance was not accelerated by high blood pressure, but rather associated with overall difficulty of the task.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·DateSep 29, 2003

Metal stamping project aims at cutting manufacturing costs

National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) researchers have developed a new metal-stamping test station with an X-ray stress measurement system. This equipment enables detailed maps of stresses and strains as sheets of steel and other metals are punched, stretched or otherwise shaped.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateSep 29, 2003

PET scans used to determine progression of HIV infection

A study found that PET scans can detect activation of lymph nodes in HIV-infected individuals, suggesting potential targets for treatment. Researchers propose using PET scans to locate active nodes and target them with radiation or removal.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 29, 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.

Post-stroke treatment with antidepressants appears to reduce death rate

The study found that nearly 68% of patients who received antidepressant treatment were alive after nine years, compared to about 36% of those who received placebo. The researchers believe antidepressants may provide protective effects by improving recovery and reducing mortality in stroke patients.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateSep 29, 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.

Researchers identify botox receptor

Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison identify a receptor for botulinum neurotoxin B, allowing for improved medical uses and prevention against biological threats. The discovery enables the development of antidotes and protective agents to neutralize the toxin.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateSep 29, 2003

Popular Canadian writing born in US, says scholar

A study by Professor Nick Mount reveals how Canadian writers who emigrated to the US in the 19th century formed expatriate communities that helped promote and publish their work. These communities provided valuable networking opportunities, enabling many Canadians to achieve literary success and make a living from writing.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·DateSep 29, 2003