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Science News Archive August 2004


Page 9 of 12

Short-term hormone therapy: Risks and benefits

Researchers found that short-term hormone therapy can be beneficial for women with mild to severe menopausal symptoms, but may not be suitable for those at high risk of cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that the decision to use hormone therapy should be based on individual goals and CVD risk.

Latinos have high levels of visual impairment and eye disease

A new study by USC researchers reveals high levels of visual impairment and eye disease among Latinos, with nearly one in four participants having diabetes and nearly half showing signs of diabetic retinopathy. The study also found that open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension were prevalent among the Latino population.

What is a comet made of?

Comet composition can be studied for the first time using a new technique, providing insights into the early solar system. Carbon disulfide has been detected in comet 122P/De Vico, with implications for understanding the origins of life.

Few US breast surgeons doing enough operations to optimize outcomes

Fewer than 20% of US surgeons have high enough volume to optimize breast cancer outcomes, with median surgeon performing only 6 operations in two years. High-volume surgeons provide more consistent standard care, such as hormone receptor testing and breast conserving surgery.

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Understanding of headaches improves with revised criteria

The American Academy of Neurology has updated its diagnostic standard for headaches, adding new subtypes and disorders. The revised criteria provide a clearer framework for diagnosing and treating various types of primary and secondary headaches.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Blackout prevention effort launched as anniversary looms

The Eastern Interconnection Phasor Project provides real-time system-wide data to utilities and transmission operators, potentially preventing cascading loss of power. The project uses satellite-based time clocks and sophisticated signal processing to enable more accurate monitoring and analysis.

Study examines inappropriate medication prescribing for elderly patients

A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that 21% of elderly patients fill prescriptions for potentially inappropriate medications, with Amitriptyline and doxepin being common culprits. The researchers used a large national pharmaceutical benefit company's outpatient claims database to identify these inappropriate medic...

Evolvability could be a driving force in drug resistance

A computer simulation by Rice University scientists suggests that the ability to evolve can itself be favored through natural selection. This idea challenges traditional views and provides insights into the evolution of drug resistance in bacteria, immune system cells, and higher-order organisms.

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.

Mexican-Americans face far higher stroke risk

A recent study by Michigan Medicine reveals that Mexican-Americans are twice as likely to experience a stroke or near-stroke compared to non-Hispanic whites. The disparity holds true across various age groups, including younger populations, with unique genetic predispositions and potential factors contributing to the increased risk.

Coordinating power of circadian rhythms keeps estrus and pregnancy on track

Researchers found that disrupting the circadian clock gene led to abnormal estrous cycles and high rates of mid-gestation pregnancy failure. The study's findings have implications for human infertility, particularly for women working swing-shifts, who are more susceptible to irregular menstrual cycles and miscarriage.

US Latinos have high rates of eye disease and visual impairment

A comprehensive study found that US Latinos have high rates of diabetic retinopathy, open-angle glaucoma, and cataract, with significant disparities in healthcare access. Researchers emphasize the importance of providing culturally tailored programs to detect and manage eye diseases in this population.

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.

Many drugs prescribed for elderly Americans are risky

A study by Duke University researchers found that over a year, one in five elderly Americans filled prescriptions for at least one 'drug of concern', including anti-depressants and anti-anxiety drugs with severe adverse effects. This highlights the need to improve education and screening of prescriptions to reduce risks.

Mentally demanding jobs may protect against Alzheimer's disease

Research suggests that mentally demanding jobs may protect against Alzheimer's disease by increasing brain cell activity and maintaining cognitive reserve. However, the exact link between job demands and Alzheimer's is not fully understood, and other factors such as socioeconomic status and environmental exposures may also play a role.

Sex pheromone blocked in bug

A team of scientists has identified an enzyme called CYP4AW1 that breaks down insect pheromones, allowing for the development of targeted treatments to prevent agricultural pests from breeding. By blocking this enzyme with a specific chemical, researchers may be able to disrupt the communication between insects and prevent infestations.

Promising hospital anti-infection strategy probably won't work, study shows

A new model shows that antibiotic cycling, alternating between classes of antibiotics every few months, probably won't work in stopping the spread of hospital-acquired antibiotic resistance. Instead, a mixing approach, where patients receive different antibiotics randomly, may be more effective in reducing resistance levels.

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.

Latinos experience high rates of eye disease

The study reveals alarming rates of eye diseases among Latinos, including open-angle glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and cataracts. These findings underscore the importance of developing tailored prevention and treatment strategies for this underserved population.

Size does matter when choosing a mate

Scientists analyzed mating behavior and body size of over 100 shorebird species to explain Rensch's rule. Larger shorebirds show competitive battles on the ground, where bigger males have an advantage, while smaller species feature aerial battles where agility is key.

The mentally-demanding job and development of Alzheimer's disease

Researchers found that people with Alzheimer's had less mentally stimulating careers than those without the disease. Engaging in mentally stimulating occupations and activities during younger years may help maintain a 'reserve' of brain cells that resists Alzheimer's effects.

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.

Media giants don't always lead to less diverse content

Research by Pearl Latteier and Joshua Gamson finds that media giants can actually increase local content and create niche markets for diverse audiences. However, conglomerates may also influence the material presented in media, favoring business interests over diverse viewpoints.

Pain in the brain: It's not what you imagine

A study by University College London and University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre found that hypnotic suggestion can cause strikingly similar brain activity to physical pain. Volunteers under hypnosis reported feeling pain even though they had not experienced any physical stimulus, suggesting that some pain may begin in the mind.

New prostate cancer gene identified

Researchers have discovered a new gene, EphB2, that plays a critical role in regulating tissue organization and maintaining normal cell behavior. The study found that this gene is inactivated in prostate cancer cells, leading to disorganization and tumor growth.

NASA extendsTRMM operations through 2004 hurricane season

TRMM has provided significant scientific research data over seven years, aiding NOAA and other agencies in monitoring rainfall and storms. NASA will continue to operate the satellite through the 2004 hurricane season to capture additional storm data.

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.

Good news for anti-cancer drug designers

Researchers have discovered a common binding site on tubulin protein crucial to cell division, providing more options for developing effective anti-cancer drugs. This finding could lead to the creation of safer and more effective artificial forms of existing compounds.

Computers alone won't create knowledge economy

A study of Humboldt County, California reveals that a knowledge economy requires more than just IT infrastructure. Public policy, cultural attitudes and economic initiatives must be coordinated to thrive.

Scientists prove time flies when you're busy

Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered that attention plays a significant role in prospective time estimations, with estimates decreasing as task difficulty increases. The study, published in Brain and Cognition, provides insight into how our brains process time when we're engaged or distracted.

Discoveries in neuroscience

Brown University scientists discover a malaria drug that precisely blocks specific connexins in the brain and eye, which may help shed light on the cause of epilepsy and seizures. The breakthrough could also lead to new treatments for other neurological conditions.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Revealing bizarre deep-sea secrets

A team of researchers will use advanced imaging systems to study deep-sea animals, behaviors, and phenomena in the Gulf of Mexico. The expedition aims to discover new life forms and understand the unique uses of light in the dark deep sea.

Why some animals have smaller eyes: Lifestyle matters

A study published in Vision Research found that the size of animals' eyes is linked to their body weight, with larger animals having bigger eyes on average. However, when broken down into smaller groups, such as birds and primates, eye size becomes more complicated and varies greatly.

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.

Common call for action on European Research Council (ERC)

A petition from 52 leading European scientific organisations calls for the acceleration of establishing a European Research Council (ERC). The petition stresses the importance of involving the European scientific community and adhering to strict criteria of scientific excellence.

Transcriptional gene silencing in nucleus shown by UCSD/VA medical researchers

Researchers at UCSD and VA San Diego Healthcare System have developed a novel method of transcriptional gene silencing in the nucleus, utilizing short interfering RNA (siRNA). This approach may provide a long-lasting solution for gene regulation, with potential applications in treating diseases such as cancer and HIV.

Spiders or scapegoats

A study challenges the common perception that spiders cause many diseases, including skin ulcers and flesh-eating skin disease. In reality, spider bites are rare and generally harmless, while other causes of these conditions are more likely.

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.

WHO's African office must evolve or die

The Lancet editorial criticizes WHO/AFRO's ineffective leadership and political ties with African governments, advocating for decentralization and a technical approach. The new leader has the opportunity to transform the agency.

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.

Avalanche of change

The Ecological Society of America symposium explores ecological recovery after the 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption, revealing remarkable resilience in some species and dramatic transformation of Spirit Lake. Researchers discuss the importance of chance events, life history characteristics, and timing in ecological recovery.

Second probable case of CJD infection from blood transfusion

The study identifies a heterozygous genotype for the prion protein, suggesting that individuals with this genetic subgroup may be at higher risk of vCJD transmission. The findings highlight the need for continued surveillance and leucoreduction policies to reduce the risk of blood-borne transmission.

Parasitic cowbirds thrive with a less ruthless strategy than cuckoos

A new study reveals that cowbird chicks survive and even grow faster when raised in noisy nests with host siblings, rather than alone. By joining their nestmates in a chirping chorus, the cowbirds are able to monopolize food attempts from parents and reap the benefits of shared parental care.

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.

Travelers' diarrhea not improved by restricted diet

Researchers at University of Texas found no benefit to restrictive diets for travelers with diarrhea, contrary to traditional advice. The study suggests that simple carbohydrates may aid in gut repair and symptom alleviation.

Viral proteins may prevent bacterial infections

Researchers have identified viral proteins that can kill specific bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus, which cause various infections. These enzymes can be delivered orally or nasally to decolonize individuals in high-risk settings.

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Research aims to improve safety at sea

The Cardiff University Research Unit aims to inform policy makers and prevent accidents by focusing on the human element of seafaring. With £500,000 funding from Lloyd's Register, the unit will draw on expertise within the Seafarers' International Research Centre.

Fundamental change to Immunology 101

Researchers pinpoint identity of early-stage T-cells in blood, providing tools for studying T-cell development and improving understanding of immune system. The discovery sheds light on thymus-imported cell types and may help uncover why certain T cells are difficult to reconstitute after bone marrow transplants.

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.