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Science News Archive February 2004


Page 9 of 11

Algorithms help diagnose cancer

Researchers developed an algorithm, Q5, using PCA and LDA to differentiate between healthy and diseased blood samples. The algorithm achieved virtually 100% accuracy for ovarian cancer and approximately 95% accuracy for prostate cancer.

Angioplasty clears clogged brain arteries

A new study suggests that angioplasty can significantly reduce the risk of stroke in patients with clogged brain arteries. The procedure, which uses a tiny balloon to open blocked vessels, has been shown to be more effective than medication alone in improving outcomes.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Pesticide exposure among agricultural workers varies by job task

Researchers found that agricultural workers who thin orchards have detectable levels of pesticides in their house and vehicle dust, posing a risk to children. Children of thinners were more likely to have detectable pesticide metabolites in their urine, supporting the theory that workers track home pesticides on their clothing and shoes.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Popular drug for chest pain may promote blood vessel damage

A new study found that nitroglycerin can cause long-term blood vessel damage in rats, leading to increased risk of heart disease and mortality. The drug's ability to dilate blood vessels was found to be short-lived, with mitochondria producing free radicals that can damage heart cells and blood vessel walls.

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.

Cooling helmets may provide innovative stroke treatment

Researchers tested a cooling helmet on patients with severe ischemic stroke, finding that it preferentially cools the brain rapidly and profoundly. The study showed excellent functional recovery in younger patients but only 20% in elderly patients.

Declining sharks

Pelagic shark assemblage declines drastically, with oceanic whitetip shark declining by over 99%, yet no conservation attention is given to these species.

Warm water vibrates for longer

Researchers found that the lifetime of water's OH-stretch vibration increases with temperature, weakening hydrogen bonds and allowing molecules to vibrate longer. The study used ultrafast infrared lasers to measure the number of vibrating molecules, revealing a unique property of water.

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.

Researchers determine reason for deadly spread of 1918 influenza

The study found that subtle alterations in the influenza virus's infectivity led to its deadly spread. The researchers determined that a key contributor was the hemagglutinin protein, which allowed the virus to bind to human receptors in an antigenically favorable way.

Natural killer cellers are made, not born

Rockefeller University scientists have discovered that natural killer cells, a crucial part of the immune system, need to be 'nurtured' before they can effectively destroy tumor and infected cells. This new understanding paves the way for potential changes in bone marrow and stem cell transplant procedures.

Two centres for infectious diseases established

The Netherlands has established two new research centers, NIVAREC and PRIOR, to develop and produce flu vaccines and tackle poverty-related infectious diseases. The centers aim to strengthen cooperation between researchers from different institutes and foster knowledge infrastructure in developing countries.

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.

Etching of deep trenches in silicon explained

A new method for improving trench profiles in the Bosch process has been developed, allowing for maximum depth-width ratios of over 30. This is achieved through two techniques: adding a third plasma pulse to remove polymer layer and optimizing passivation pulses to prevent polymer deposition.

Corkscrew device retrieves clots, quickly reverses stroke damage

A new corkscrew-shaped retrieval system has been shown to restore blood flow and reverse paralysis in 61 of 114 patients with ischemic strokes. The device, MERCI Retrieval System, was able to dissolve clots and open blood vessels in patients who were not eligible for standard tPA therapy within three hours.

Study demonstrates altered angiogenic proteins in preeclampsia patients

Researchers have identified elevated levels of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt1) in pregnant women at risk of developing preeclampsia. This finding suggests that sFlt1 may serve as a biomarker for early detection and potentially inform treatment strategies through the administration of drug therapies that neutralize its effects.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Yeast mutations offer window into human disease

Researchers mapped yeast genetic interaction networks, finding that genes interact in 'neighbourhoods' and predicting traits. The study provides new insights into how genes contribute to human disease.

Patients are less satisfied with better company doctor

A study of nearly 200 patients found that company doctor adherence to guideline standards reduced absenteeism but decreased patient satisfaction. Factors such as employee pessimism and anxiety disorders also predicted unfavourable outcomes.

Grant expands Indiana University-Kenya AIDS program

The Indiana University-Kenya AIDS program has received an expanded grant, allowing for the treatment of up to 15,000 HIV-infected individuals in rural communities. The new funding will also establish two additional rural programs and support educational initiatives for medical students and providers.

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.

European chemists unite

The European organization aims to create a virtual office to facilitate international collaboration and development of new research programs. Researchers will be able to work from various locations throughout Europe.

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.

Blood transfusion poses CJD risk

A UK-based study found that individuals who received blood components from donors later diagnosed with vCJD were at increased risk. Researchers also discovered that the BSE agent can be transmitted through intravenous routes, highlighting concerns for possible transfusion cases.

MIT team discovers memory mechanism

The study reveals a direct activational signal from the synapse to the protein synthesis machinery, enabling neurons to boost protein production rapidly during long-term memory formation and synaptic strengthening. This discovery has significant implications for understanding psychiatric and neurologic diseases, potentially leading to ...

Study provides answers for childbirth after C-section

A four-year study published by Ohio State University researchers found that attempting a vaginal birth after C-section (VBAC) is associated with increased risk of maternal morbidity and serious obstetric complications. Despite this, many women continue to opt for VBAC due to the relatively low level of risk involved.

New MS research shows remarkable findings

A new study by McGill University researchers has identified phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) as a key enzyme that triggers multiple sclerosis-like disease in an animal model. Treatment with a chemical inhibitor of this enzyme results in a marked reduction in the onset and severity of the disease.

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.

Stroke news tips for Thursday, Feb. 5, 2004

Researchers have identified the optimal dosage of a bat-derived clot-buster for acute ischemic stroke treatment, finding a dose of 125 micrograms per kilogram to improve neurological function scores. Carotid artery screenings in seniors may also help prevent strokes and save billions of dollars in healthcare costs.

Blood-diverting catheter holds promise for stroke treatment

Researchers developed a device called NeuroFlo that increases blood flow to the brain by diverting it from lower extremities. The study tested its safety and effectiveness on 17 patients with ischemic strokes, resulting in improved treatment outcomes for 10 out of 15 conscious patients.

New findings bring mixed blessings to those looking to combat jet lag

Researchers investigated the effects of caffeine (SRC) and melatonin (Mlt) on jet lag symptoms. The study found that Mlt decreased subjective sleepiness but not objective sleep quality, while SRC reduced sleepiness for a few days with negative effects on recovery sleep. Additional studies are needed to evaluate their full effects.

Severn Estuary success in Europe

The Severn Estuary Partnership has received £150,000 funding to improve and develop sustainable access to and around the estuary. The project aims to boost local economies by promoting local produce and enhance nature conservation values.

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.

Cystic fibrosis gene linked to fatty acid defects

Researchers have discovered a link between cystic fibrosis and fatty acid defects, with abnormally high levels of arachidonic acid and low levels of docosahexaenoic acid found in patients. The study suggests that correcting this imbalance may lead to new treatment options for the disease.

Purdue researchers create device that detects mass of a single virus particle

Researchers at Purdue University developed a miniature device sensitive enough to detect a single virus particle, with applications in environmental health monitoring and homeland security. The device uses a tiny cantilever that vibrates at a specific frequency when a virus particle lands on it, allowing for real-time detection.

New findings are a window into the late stages of 'Lou Gehrig's' disease

Researchers used post-mortem spinal cord tissue to identify a unique gene expression profile in ALS patients, revealing distinct changes underlying the terminal stages of the disease. The study distinguishes between familial and sporadic ALS forms, providing insights into the molecular pathophysiology of neurodegeneration.

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.

School sports don't keep kids away from tobacco

The study found that school sports participation was associated with lower odds of currently smoking cigarettes. However, both chewing tobacco and snuff use were higher among athletic adolescents, indicating that sports do not help keep students away from less incendiary forms of tobacco.

Puffer fish biotoxin provides promising relief in cancer pain

Researchers found that 68% of patients experienced a reduction in pain intensity of greater than 33%, indicating promising relief. The biotoxin blocks slow sodium channel nocicipetive pain fibers in a highly selective way, making it a potential treatment option for cancer pain.

Gene transfer allows mammals to produce heart-healthy fats

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital developed a strain of mice with the c. elegans gene fat-1, which converts omega-6 acids to omega-3s. The transgenic mice produce high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, opening up possibilities for farm animals that naturally produce omega-3 rich food products.

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.

Newport cigarettes gain popularity among teens

A study found that menthol cigarettes, like Newport, are more attractive to teens, while brand-name cigarette use is concentrated among adolescents. The researchers also discovered that tobacco advertising and promotion budgets increased significantly during the 1990s, contributing to the popularity of certain brands.

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.

Study questions premise of impending US physician shortage

A study analyzing HMO medical groups found that with efficient care, primary and specialist physicians can serve a large patient population with significantly fewer doctors. The HMOs had about 1 physician for every 650 patients, compared to the current US supply of 1 per 400.

Call for Entries: 2004 Acoustics Writing Awards

The Acoustical Society of America sponsors two annual awards for outstanding popular works on acoustics. Entries must be published or broadcast between January 1, 2003 and December 31, 2003, and meet criteria for accessibility, relevance, accuracy, and quality. The winners will receive a $1000 prize and an award certificate.

The poetics of babytalk

Babytalk plays a crucial role in infants' development of temporal arts, such as literature and music. Depriving babies of poetic elements like alliteration and assonance may hinder their ability to appreciate these arts later on. Researchers argue that babytalk is more significant than previously thought.