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Science News Archive 2004


Page 131 of 135

Diploma or not, high school students who learn more will earn more

A study of over 12,600 Florida high school dropouts found that those who scored higher on the GED math test had better earnings in low-level jobs. The research suggests that literacy and math skills have a direct impact on earning potential, even for individuals who do not complete secondary school.

Exposure to carcinogens not proportionally decreased by reduction in smoking

A recent study found that reducing cigarette consumption by 25%, 50%, and 75% did not proportionally decrease the levels of carcinogens in smokers' urine. Despite a reduction in cigarettes smoked per day, NNK metabolites remained relatively stable. The authors suggest that people may compensate for reduced smoking by inhaling longer an...

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.

Twitching whiskers tell all

A study led by Prof. Ehud Ahissar found that two types of neurons respond to whisking motion and surface contact, respectively, indicating a dynamic dance of perception where hands, eyes, and whiskers actively seek out sensation. This research has implications for optimizing artificial sensory aids for the deaf and blind.

Primates trade smell for sight

A recent study found a correlation between the loss of olfactory receptor genes and the acquisition of full trichromatic color vision in primates. The research team analyzed 19 primate species, including humans, and discovered that Old World monkeys and apes had similar percentages of OR pseudogenes, while New World monkeys had lower p...

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Book scribbles reveal public, private histories

Heather Jackson's research reveals ordinary scribbles and famous cases like Blake, Coleridge, and Keats help us understand past times better. The study explores how people thought about books, reading, and themselves, challenging the notion of consumers.

Fat cells fight disease, Purdue University researchers find

Purdue University researchers discovered that fat cells in humans defend against biochemical processes involved in illnesses such as diabetes and cancer. The study found that fat cells produce hormone-like proteins called cytokines to regulate the immune response.

Alzheimer's researchers begin unique study of tangles

A new study aims to investigate the effects of valproate on reducing agitation and slowing memory deterioration in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's. Researchers will also examine the drug's impact on brain volume loss and cell product manufacturing in Alzheimer's patients.

Brain receptor switches addiction on, off

Researchers have discovered a brain receptor, GABA-A, that can be manipulated to control the switch between addicted and non-addicted states in the brain. By controlling this switch pharmacologically, it may be possible to take drug addicts back to a non-addicted state in a relatively short period of time.

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Drug prevents diabetes recurrence after islet cell transplantation

Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have discovered that Lisofylline can protect insulin-producing beta cells from autoimmune destruction, allowing transplanted islet cells to function for over 65 days without immunosuppression. This breakthrough could lead to a new treatment approach for type 1 diabetes patients.

Simple sugars make cell walls like steel

Purdue University scientists discovered that simple sugars, particularly galactose, are essential for maintaining plant cell wall strength. The study found that enzymes break down xyloglucan polymers during growth, allowing microfibrils to separate and new fibers to be integrated, preventing the cell wall from becoming too thick.

MBL scientists confirm evolutionary exception

Researchers identify four copies of a target gene on separate chromosomes, eliminating possibility of sexual reproduction. This confirms that the ancient microbe has evolved without sex for tens of millions of years.

Radiotherapy improves survival after breast-conserving surgery

A pooled analysis of 15 clinical trials reveals that radiotherapy significantly reduces breast cancer recurrence and mortality rates after breast-conserving surgery. Women who received radiotherapy had a lower risk of relapse and mortality compared to those who underwent surgery alone.

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.

Flexible screen technology ready to roll

Flexible organic light emitting devices (FOLEDs), developed by University of Toronto engineers, offer a potential solution for future generations of bendable television, computer and cellphone screens. The technology could be manufactured using low-cost, high-efficiency mass production methods within two to three years.

NASA satellites improve response to global agricultural change

NASA satellites provide daily, high-quality data on crop productivity, surface temperature and snow cover to support decision-making for FAS analysts. The data helps monitor natural disasters' impact on crops and assess water levels in lakes and reservoirs.

To avoid detection, HIV disrupts immune cell migration

Researchers found that HIV uses Nef to activate Rac activity in DOCK2ELMO1 complex, disrupting T cell migration and interaction with other lymphocytes. This study provides biochemical evidence for Nef's role in subverting immune response pathways controlled by receptors on T cells.

Nerves, heal thyselves

Researchers discovered that a special protein called importin beta is produced at the site of damage in axons, facilitating the entry of molecules into the nucleus. Blocking this process inhibits nerve regeneration, highlighting the need to identify proteins containing the "healing message"

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.

Getting older = lower self-esteem, say researchers

A study by Professor John Cairney and Julie Ann McMullin found that people's self-esteem drops after middle age, especially for low-income earners. The researchers suggest changing negative perceptions and stereotypes associated with gender and age can help build confidence as we age.

Most people with diabetes do not meet treatment goals

A recent study found that only 37% of adults with diagnosed diabetes are achieving the American Diabetes Association's goal for blood glucose control, while nearly half have high cholesterol and high blood pressure. The lack of lifestyle changes, such as exercise and weight loss, is a major contributor to this issue.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Patients with diabetes have poor control of risk factors for vascular disease

A study examining trends in adults with diagnosed diabetes found that only a small percentage met recommended targets for HbA1c, blood pressure, and total cholesterol. The authors highlight the need for ongoing monitoring, empowering clinicians and patients to improve care quality and reduce vascular disease risk.

Brain reverberations during sleep

Researchers recorded neuronal firing patterns in rats during normal sleep-wake cycles and found that neural activity reappeared after novel experiences for up to 48 hours. This reverberation was enhanced during slow-wave sleep and may support a mechanism for recalling and amplifying memories.

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.

Resilience through improvisation

Researchers discovered a specialized DNA polymerase that can rescue stalled replication processes when encountering foreign material, even if it contains damage. This shows the remarkable ability of cells to reproduce and cope with genetic errors.

Other highlights in the January 21 issue of JNCI

A meta-analysis of genetic counseling for breast, ovarian, and colorectal cancer found improved knowledge of cancer genetics, but no impact on perceived risk. A gene mutation affecting folate metabolism alters the sensitivity of colon and breast cancer cells to chemotherapy drugs.

Century of research confirms impact of psychosocial factors on health

Research confirms that psychosocial factors significantly influence health outcomes. Studies show how stress levels can overwhelm the body's immune system and increase disease risk. The review emphasizes the importance of understanding psychoendoneuroimmunology to develop effective coping strategies.

Skin photographs may help patients detect new or changed moles

Researchers found that digital photographs improved detection of new or changed moles, increasing accuracy by over 10% compared to skin self-examinations alone. Baseline photography may effectively improve diagnostic accuracy in patients performing skin self-examinations.

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for Jan. 20, 2004

A six-month graded activity program reduced lost work days by 29 days compared to usual care for patients with work-related low back pain. The program's focus on patient function despite pain was commended, but more research is needed to develop powerful treatments.

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.

Evidence that memories are consolidated during sleep

Researchers used neural recording technology to find 'reverberations' of brain wave patterns after novel experiences, which lingered in areas for up to 48 hours. The study suggests that slow-wave sleep amplifies memory traces and REM sleep triggers gene expression for memory storage.

Discussion plus pamphlet better than just discussion for informed consent

Patients undergoing cosmetic surgery showed improved risk recall when informed of potential complications through both verbal and written means. A study found that patients who received a pamphlet outlining their procedure's risks retained more information than those who only discussed it verbally.

Small defects have large impact

Researchers have identified a mechanism for the size effect in ferroelectric oxides, which can lead to the loss of memory properties. Linear crystal lattice defects can cause material deformation and reduce storing properties.

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.

Novel technique may help detect certain head and neck cancers

Researchers have discovered several protein profiles that are present more commonly in patients with HNSCC than in healthy smokers or control patients, enabling accurate diagnosis. The newly developed technology could potentially lead to the development of a reliable screening test for early detection and diagnosis of HNSCC.

Vitamin supplement use may reduce effects of Alzheimer's disease

A study of over 17,000 individuals found that regular use of vitamin E and C supplements, especially in combination, may lower the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. While individual supplements showed no significant effect, multivitamins with higher doses of these vitamins offered some protection.

Understanding urinary tract infections

E. coli bacteria undergo four distinct developmental stages during UTIs, including a quiescent state that may create reservoirs for recurrent infections. Researchers hope to use these stages as guides for new drug development.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Artificial snow creates winter all year round

For skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, artificial snow requires realistic look, feel, and action. Machine-made snow uses seed materials to form ice crystals, with popular additives like Snomax and Drift enhancing realism and speed.

Beta blockers cost effective to society for heart failure treatment

A study by Duke University researchers found that beta blocker therapy for heart failure reduces societal costs by $3,959 per patient over five years. The treatment also improves survival rates and reduces hospitalizations. However, the authors suggest that Medicare coverage of medication costs could increase benefits.

Cell phone still too big? Micro-oscillators may help

Researchers at NIST developed a tiny device generating tunable microwave signals using individual electron spins. The device can be built into integrated circuits and may replace bulkier technologies with reduced cost.

Online calculator improves analysis of chemical data

MassSpectator eliminates manual translation errors by automatically identifying peak sizes in mass spectrometry data. This allows for faster and more accurate chemical compound analysis, benefiting law enforcement agencies conducting criminal investigations.

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 standard on the menu, certified slurried spinach

The new Standard Reference Material (SRM) 2385 contains pure spinach with certified concentrations of vitamins and antioxidants. Spinach is rich in beta-carotene and lutein, essential for healthy vision and eye health.

Advice for designing reliable nanomaterials

Designing nanomaterials requires careful consideration of interatomic force laws and scaling dimensions. At the nanoscale, tiny cracks require more load to spread, increasing the risk of catastrophic failure. Ceramic materials are particularly affected due to their high strength, hardness, and light weight.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

7-month-old is youngest recipient of artificial corneal transplant

A 7-month-old boy named Lukas received a groundbreaking artificial corneal transplant using the AlphaCor device, offering renewed hope for patients with high-risk traditional corneal transplants. The procedure's success marks a significant milestone in the development of this innovative technology.

Tanning devices - Fast track to skin cancer?

Sunbeds' tanning properties come with a high risk of skin damage, including DNA mutations associated with malignant melanoma. Experts recommend restricting sunbed use to those over 18 years old and accelerate skin aging.

Ebola outbreaks are simultaneous 'mini-epidemics'

A study by Wildlife Conservation Society reveals that simultaneous Ebola outbreaks consist of multiple viral strains originating from different areas. The authors recommend establishing a monitoring network to look for dead and dying large animals as an early warning system to minimize damage to both people and wildlife.

Blood clot risk not treated preventively, study finds

A recent study found that patients with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) often did not receive prophylactic therapy in the 30-day period prior to their diagnosis. The researchers also noted that physicians frequently prescribed older treatment methods instead of evidence-based drugs, such as low molecular weight heparin.

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.

Study finds new antibiotic effective for diabetic foot infections

Linezolid has been shown to be effective in treating diabetic foot infections with a clinical cure rate of 81%. The drug can be given orally or intravenously, making it suitable for outpatient use. This approval may reduce hospitalizations and IV-related complications among patients with diabetic foot infections.

Ebola virus a threat to great ape populations

The Ebola virus has unleashed several lethal epidemics in Central Africa, leading to haemorrhagic fever and high mortality rates. The virus is transmitted by direct contact with infected animals or their carcasses, resulting in a rapid decline in great ape populations.

Bone marrow–derived stem cells active in pulmonary fibrosis

Researchers have discovered that bone marrow-derived stem cells are present in the lungs of mice with pulmonary fibrosis. This finding suggests a new approach to treating the disease using stem cell therapy. Understanding how these stem cells engraft and interact with the lung tissue could lead to improved treatment outcomes.