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Science News Archive 2004


Page 53 of 135

Expedition reveals new deep-sea wonders

A Harbor Branch-led team of scientists discovered the world's first known fluorescent shark and collected strong proof-of-concept for a new unobtrusive deep-sea camera system. The team also found fluorescence from methane hydrates, which could lead to a new detection technique for this potential future energy source.

Asian elephant sex pheromone transporter revealed

Researchers have discovered that serum albumin in Asian elephants plays a crucial role in transporting sex pheromones. The protein helps protect and extend the detection period of the pheromone, allowing successful mating to occur. This unique transport system is distinct from other mammalian pheromone transport systems.

Managing occupational exposures to potential bioterrorist agents

The study found that USAMRIID's biosafety and medical management program effectively prevented laboratory-acquired infections, with only five confirmed cases in a fourteen-year period. The review emphasized the importance of vaccination and early evaluation of potential exposures.

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.

Basic research producing new anthrax therapies

Researchers discovered two small molecules that can block anthrax toxins, including edema factor and lethal factor. These compounds, Nitro10506-2A and DS-998, may lead to new treatments for the deadly disease, but further testing is needed.

Moist soil 'hot spots' may affect rainfall

Researchers used computer models to locate areas where soil moisture influences rainfall, identifying common features known as 'hot spots'. These hot spots are found in transition zones between wet and dry regions, with implications for seasonal forecasting of rainfall and improving weather forecasts.

Livermore research in accelerator mass spectrometry highlighted at ACS meeting

Researchers from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory are presenting their work on using accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) to detect carcinogens, study biomarkers for atherosclerosis, and develop novel drug delivery devices. AMS applications in biological research and soot production chemistry modeling will also be highlighted.

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.

Virus known for its photo ops makes its movie screen debut

Researchers at Purdue University have created a movie of the T4 virus infection process, revealing conformational changes in the baseplate that enable scientists to visualize the infection process. This improved understanding could lead to deeper insights into viral behavior and potential gene therapy techniques for human patients.

First solid evidence that the study of music promotes intellectual development

A study published in Psychological Science found that extra-curricular music lessons significantly improved IQ scores and academic performance in six-year-old children. The research, led by Dr. E. Glenn Schellenberg, showed that music lessons had a more pronounced effect on cognitive development than drama lessons or no lessons at all.

Call for full enquiry into role of medical staff at Abu Ghraib

A comprehensive review of media reports and government documents reveals widespread failure of medical staff to uphold human rights standards at Abu Ghraib, including falsified records and coercive interrogations. The incident highlights the need for reforms to military medical services and a re-emphasis on principles of medical ethics.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study of obscure Amazon tribe sheds new light on how language affects perception

Researchers found that adult members of the Pirahã tribe performed accurately with small sets of objects but struggled with larger numbers, indicating that their language lacks precise numerical representation. The study suggests that having the right linguistic resources can carve out one's reality and influence perception.

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.

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.

Counting foxes before the last tally-ho

A team of scientists and volunteers counted fox faeces in 400 one-kilometre squares to estimate UK fox population, finding 225,000 adult foxes. Habitat features have a greater influence on fox numbers than hunting activities.

Imported fitness

Researchers discovered a specific Mlo gene fragment in the genome of mutant barley, which enables plants to resist powdery mildew. The mutation is believed to have occurred less than 10,000 years ago in Ethiopia, highlighting the importance of preserving crop diversity.

Scientists reinvent DNA as template to produce organic molecules

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a technique to produce organic molecules by attaching them to single DNA strands, which can then be used as a sequence-programmable assembly line for chemical synthesis. This method enables the selection and amplification of molecules with desired functional properties.

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.

Evidence for the impact of climate change on deep-sea biodiversity

Researchers found that even minor temperature shifts in the deep sea can rapidly alter species richness and functional diversity. The study highlights the vulnerability of deep-sea fauna to environmental alteration, providing new insights into climate change's potential consequences.

Plumbing trees' plumbing reveals their engineering skill

Duke University researchers studied tree roots in place, finding they adjust anatomy and physiology to maximize water transport deep underground. The findings improve theoretical models of water transport within trees, revealing the importance of deep roots in efficient water flow.

Restoring sweetgrass to the South Carolina lowcountry

Researchers found that residential development is the primary cause of sweetgrass scarcity, and basket makers support alternative management plans. They propose setting aside land for growing sweetgrass and working with island residents to access the resource.

Muscles are smarter than you think

Researchers discovered that muscles use acidosis to maintain proper nerve signal response, avoiding fatigue. By peeling away the muscle fiber's surface membrane, the team studied the effects of acidity on force response, finding it counteracts fatigue at a critical step in excitation-contraction-coupling.

Invaders that did no harm?

The Panama Biological Survey (1910-1912) tracked fish migration between the Atlantic and Pacific slopes of Panama's Isthmus. New research finds that dispersal played a key role in increasing species richness in local freshwater fish assemblages, even after many generations.

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.

Current child care debate must be placed in larger societal context

The article explores the links between child care quality and children's development using ecological systems theory. Higher-quality care produces healthier development, and Marshall suggests integrating societal goals to support healthy families, economic self-sufficiency, and women's employment.

Chemical engineers discover filtration system to help biotech industry

Researchers at New Jersey Institute of Technology have discovered a novel filtration system that can efficiently separate proteins, a crucial step for pharmaceutical applications. The new technology uses a membrane with almost identical molecular weights for proteins, making the process more cost-effective and faster.

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.

Performing large-volume paracentesis as an outpatient procedure

A study conducted at the Mayo Clinic found that gastrointestinal endoscopy assistants, trained under supervision, can perform large-volume paracenteses safely and efficiently, with a median procedure time of two hours. The practice has been shown to save physician time without increasing patient risk.

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.

Anti-bacterial additive found in Maryland streams

Researchers have detected high levels of triclocarban in Maryland streams, with concentrations up to 5.6 micrograms per liter. Further studies are needed to understand the impact on aquatic life and potential human exposure.

Ecologists help keep death off the roads

Researchers found that 70% of collisions occurred on just 7.7% of roads in the study area, highlighting the need for animal-friendly infrastructure. In another case, conservationists in Germany must reduce road mortality to make reintroduction of the Eurasian lynx effective.

NIST, CU scientists report first observation of an 'Atomic Air Force'

Researchers at NIST and CU-Boulder observed strontium atoms forming a cubic structure, with atoms flying apart in formation due to a recoil effect. The phenomenon is caused by the atoms absorbing laser energy and rapidly cooling, resulting in the creation of a 'flying structure' visible through blue fluorescence signals.

Circulating tumor cells in blood indicate more aggressive breast cancer

A new study has found that patients with high levels of circulating tumor cells in their blood have shorter progression-free survival and overall survival rates compared to those with low levels. The presence of these cells can predict prognosis more accurately than other factors, allowing for more tailored treatment decisions.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

When is a mouse like a test tube?

Researchers use a novel chemical reaction in living mice to tag cells and attach tracer molecules to sugars on cell surfaces. This technique could help doctors pinpoint inflamed or cancerous cells for diagnosis. The method allows for the exploration of biosynthetic pathways and the examination of functional consequences.

New 'clock gene' uncovered

A team of scientists at Scripps Research Institute has discovered a new genetic component of the mammalian clock, known as Rora. This discovery holds promise for understanding circadian rhythms and their role in health and disease, including conditions like jet lag and sleep disorders.

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.

Newly discovered protein may be key to muscular dystrophy

Scientists at UCSF discovered a new protein, SNF-6, that transports neurotransmitter acetylcholine away from the nerve-muscle synapse, potentially treating muscular dystrophy. The protein plays a critical role in clearing excess acetylcholine during intense muscle activity, preventing muscle degeneration.

Chemists honor 'Heroes' for biotechnology achievements in health

The American Chemical Society has recognized four companies for developing innovative therapies for various ailments, including eye disease and high cholesterol. These breakthroughs were made possible by the work of industrial chemists and chemical engineers who have led to commercially successful products that improve quality of life.

American Chemical Society celebrates Petroleum Research Fund success

The ACS Petroleum Research Fund has distributed over $420 million in grants, supporting groundbreaking research in areas like drug development, catalysis, and oil exploration. The fund's impact is evident in the careers of 19 Nobel laureates and thousands of students who have benefited from its support.

INEEL develops computer tool to help save archaeological treasures

The INEEL's Ecological and Cultural Resources Department developed a computer program to integrate historical, archaeological, and anthropological research data. The Data Management Tool (DMT) helps archaeologists navigate detailed information, draw interactive maps, and predict where new artifacts might be found.

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.

The first engineering of cell surfaces in living animals

Researchers demonstrate Staudinger ligation in remodeled cells of living mice, enabling tagging of specific cell types for noninvasive imaging and potential treatment of diseases. The technique meets key requirements of bio-orthogonality, allowing selective chemical reactions in physiological environments.

New clues to hereditary blinding disease found

Researchers have discovered a crucial link between zinc and retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye disease that leads to blindness. The study suggests that trace metals like zinc play a critical role in protein function, with implications for treating other neurodegenerative diseases.

New understanding of the machinery of flinching

The study found that increasing neuronal activity in the region enhances flinch responses, while decreasing activity reduces sustained defensive movements. This suggests the polysensory zone is a hotspot for processing specific stimuli related to body defense.

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.

MIT research that stops pain of needle jabs gets FDA approval

The SonoPrep device uses ultrasonic energy to make skin more permeable, allowing for painless treatment with lidocaine cream, reducing wait time from one hour to five minutes. The technology has potential applications in various medical procedures and may lead to further innovations like glucose-sensing devices.

Gene linked to cleft lip and palate identified

A new study has identified a gene variant linked to cleft lip and palate, with implications for genetic counseling and treatment options. The discovery brings us closer to understanding the multiple genetic factors underlying these serious birth defects.