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Science News Archive January 2004


Page 2 of 7

Incidental PET findings may reveal undetected cancer

A study found that PET scans revealed significant abnormalities in 53 patients, including 30 cases with malignant or premalignant tumors unrelated to primary cancer. Follow-up was crucial to diagnose incidental findings, which were often asymptomatic.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Jan/Feb 2004 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

The American Academy of Family Physicians proposes a palliative care model for elderly patients, focusing on proactive and team-oriented care. The TLC model aims to relieve physical and emotional suffering throughout the aging process.

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.

Breast augmentation may interfere with mammography interpretation

A recent study suggests that breast augmentation procedures can affect the sensitivity of mammography, with women with implants having lower detection rates. However, this does not necessarily translate to a higher risk of advanced disease at diagnosis. Women with breast implants should still follow recommended screening intervals.

Researchers add new drug prophylactic option against flu

Researchers found that post-exposure oseltamivir prophylaxis significantly reduced virus transmission and illness in households. The strategy was more effective than treating the ill household member only, with a 63% protective efficacy rate.

UI researchers discover new activity in cystic fibrosis protein

A study by University of Iowa researchers reveals that the cystic fibrosis protein CFTR can function as an adenylate kinase enzyme, controlling channel opening without consuming energy. This discovery has broad implications for understanding ABC transporters and their role in genetic diseases.

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.

Tip sheet for the January 27, 2004 Neurology Journal

Researchers found that free testosterone was associated with a decreased risk of Alzheimer's disease in men. A Netherlands study also linked higher consumption of fatty fish to reduced impaired cognitive function and speed. In contrast, higher dietary cholesterol intake was associated with increased risk of impaired memory and flexibil...

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

New study shows Neanderthals were not our ancestors

A recent study using computer imaging techniques reveals that Neanderthals exhibit distinct differences in skeletal morphology compared to modern humans. The research, led by NYU paleoanthropologist Katerina Harvati, suggests that Neanderthals are a separate species within the genus Homo.

Long-term effects of embryo culture on behavior studied

Researchers found that cultured embryos led to decreased anxiety and small decreases in memory, but no differences in development. The study highlights the need for further research to optimize culture conditions for human embryos.

Reach of sigmoidoscopies inadequate in many older women

A study found that sigmoidoscopies are often inadequate in older women, with a significant increase in failures to reach the colon's lower third. The study suggests that age-related factors, such as bowel preparation difficulties and anatomical variations, may contribute to these findings.

C-reactive protein – more than a heart disease marker

Researchers found that mice genetically prone to atherosclerosis produced human C-reactive protein and developed larger lesions with fatty plaque buildup. This discovery supports the use of C-reactive protein as a heart disease risk marker and identifies its role in atherosclerosis development.

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.

Transgenic animals produced using cultured sperm

Researchers have successfully produced transgenic zebrafish using cultured sperm cells grown in laboratory conditions, enabling the study of human development and disease. The new technique also holds promise for pre-fertilization strategies in human gene therapy, potentially leading to preventive treatment for certain genetic disorders.

Signal chemical primes plants for pest attack

Researchers discover green leafy volatiles (GLV) prime corn plant defenses to respond more strongly against subsequent herbivorous insect attacks. The primed plants produce chemical signals that attract natural parasites and predators, increasing crop protection.

February 2004 Ophthalmology Journal

The American Academy of Ophthalmology released its February 2004 journal, showcasing groundbreaking research in the field. The publication highlights significant breakthroughs in ophthalmic care and treatment options.

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.

Endangered sea turtles make a dramatic turnaround

Conservation efforts have led to a significant decrease in poaching, reducing turtle egg removal from nearly 100% to approximately 21% on the Pearl Cays. Beach surveys and active protection of females and their eggs are crucial for the survival of this endangered species.

Statistics research offers new forecast of El Niño

A statistical model created at Ohio State University predicts sea surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific Ocean, providing a way to quantify the uncertainty surrounding El Niño. The model can forecast El Niño six months in advance, giving farmers and commercial fishermen time to plan for the coming season.

Study: Muscles respond to getting on your feet after spinal cord injury

Researchers have found that patients with spinal cord injuries can generate muscle activity independent of brain signals when one leg is moved during therapy. This discovery has significant implications for developing rehabilitation strategies and improving walking abilities in spinal cord injury patients.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Few hospitalized patients at low risk for pain

A study found that hospitalized patients experience significant pain levels, with 59% reporting pain, and that certain characteristics like age, sex, and diagnosis can identify high-risk patients. In contrast, no clear predictors were identified for low-risk patients, suggesting that all hospitalized patients may be at high risk for pain.

Dazzling halos illuminate our dusty galaxy

Astronomers have discovered two unique rings of dust illuminated by the afterglow of a gamma-ray burst in our galaxy. The rings, caused by dust scattering X-rays from the burst, reveal new insights into the distribution and behavior of dust in the Galaxy.

First US tuberculosis vaccine trial in 60 years begins

A new recombinant tuberculosis vaccine is being tested in a Phase I clinical trial in the United States, combining two proteins known to stimulate strong immune responses in humans. The vaccine aims to offer protection against pulmonary TB, the most contagious form of the disease.

Gene predisposes infants to neurologic injury after heart surgery

Researchers found that children carrying the epsilon2 version of the apolipoprotein E gene had worse neurodevelopmental outcomes at age one compared to those without the gene. The study suggests a potential genetic link between the APOE ε2 gene variant and increased risk of neurologic injury in infants after heart surgery.

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.

Puzzling height of polar clouds revealed

Researchers found that polar mesospheric clouds at the South Pole are on average 2 miles higher than those in the North, attributed to increased solar radiation. The clouds have brightened by 15% over the last twenty years, indicating a cooling of the mesosphere and potentially linked to long-term global climate change.

Oxygen triggered the evolution of complex life forms

Researchers reconstructed the timeline of eukaryotic evolution, showing that increased oxygen led to more varied cell types. Organisms with up to 50 different cell types evolved following the emergence of mitochondria and plastids around 2,300 million years ago.

Studies on statin use and fracture risk show mixed results

Researchers analyzed combined data from large prospective studies and found a trend towards fewer hip fractures and nonspine fractures among statin users. However, analysis of clinical trials did not support a protective effect with statin use for hip or nonspine fracture.

Handling satellite data in real time

Researchers at UC Davis are developing a system called GeoStreams that can analyze satellite data as it arrives, providing users with accurate and timely information. The system will enable fast-tracking of storms and efficient management of irrigation projects in California.

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.

New algorithm speeds simulations of complex fluids

Researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign have developed a geometric cluster algorithm that accelerates simulations of complex fluids. The new method can efficiently capture the motions of particles of different sizes, resolving a long-standing challenge in fluid simulation.

Computer scientist designs immersive tools for designers

A computer scientist at Virginia Tech has designed an innovative software framework called iDesign to enhance the virtual environment experience for designers. The framework is being used to develop immersive design applications in structural engineering, interior design, and architectural design.

The pentaquark: The strongest confirmation to date

The latest research at Jefferson Lab has confirmed the existence of pentaquarks, five-quark particles predicted by scientists for years. This breakthrough provides valuable information on the nature of this new state of matter and its production process.

One type of carbon so resilient it skews carbon cycle calculations

Researchers found that graphitic black carbon resists conversion to other forms, such as combining with oxygen to form carbon dioxide. This resistance affects carbon cycle calculations, leading to significant overestimates of burial of combustion-derived black carbon in marine sediments.

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.

Doubling of steroid before severe asthma attack ineffective

A recent study published in The Lancet found that doubling the dose of inhaled corticosteroid before a severe asthma attack does not provide additional benefits. The research involved 390 patients who monitored their asthma for up to one year and received either an extra inhaler or placebo when control deteriorated.

UF research adds to evidence that unborn children hear 'melody' of speech

Researchers at the University of Florida found that human fetuses likely hear mostly low-frequency rather than high-frequency sounds, suggesting they hear vowels rather than consonants. The study's findings may have implications for premature babies exposed to a range of frequencies in their nursery environment.

Multiple sclerosis not as progressive or disabling as once thought

A new study published by the Mayo Clinic research team found that many MS patients experience mild disability over time, with 71 of 99 walking unassisted in 1991 still doing so in 2001. The study also showed that only 20% of patients who didn't need a wheelchair in 1991 required one 10 years later.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Protein data bank opens new era with broader support

The Protein Data Bank has expanded to accommodate nearly 24,000 proteins and other macromolecules, providing a comprehensive resource for biologists worldwide. The bank's growth is expected to revolutionize structure-informed research, driving breakthroughs in medicine and scientific discovery.

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.

Many men would rather cope with STDs than use condoms

A study found that two-thirds of men with a primary partner and one-third without said they were not ready to use condoms consistently. Men in more intimate relationships reported the least confidence in condom use. Despite being at risk, many men opt for secondary prevention over preventive behavior like consistent condom use.

Black Americans: U-M study documents differences within the community, part 1

The U-M study found lower rates of major depression, panic disorder, social phobia, and generalized anxiety disorder among African Americans, especially men. Afro-Caribbean women had higher rates of mental disorders compared to their counterparts, likely due to structural inequalities in economic and social resources.

Study calls for end to age thresholds for prenatal genetic testing

A study published in The Lancet suggests that prenatal genetic testing should be offered to all pregnant women, regardless of age or risk, as it is cost-effective. The researchers found that the benefits of early testing outweigh the costs, particularly for high-risk pregnancies.

Avian influenza: The threat looms

A recent avian influenza outbreak in Vietnam underscores the importance of veterinary science and animal husbandry in preventing human pandemics. The article emphasizes that animal experts must receive adequate funding and resources to combat emerging diseases.

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.

Enrollment in cancer trials not linked to better health outcomes

A review of 26 studies found that cancer patients enrolled in clinical trials did not have significantly better health outcomes compared to those not participating. The studies highlighted the importance of clinical trials in advancing treatment and improving options for patients with cancer.

Ultrasound-guided liposomes boost imaging, target drug/gene therapy

Researchers developed ultrasound-guided liposomes to boost imaging and target drug/gene therapy. The technique directs liposomes to specific targets, such as atherosclerotic plaques or blood clots, and releases drugs with ultrasonic pulses, improving visualization and diagnosis of arterial conditions.

Heart patients want more information from their doctors

Patients want more information about managing their heart conditions, particularly regarding diet, high cholesterol, and exercise. Despite a clear preference for sharing decision-making with doctors, patients reported feeling moderately well-informed and wanting more information.