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Science News for March 1, 2004


Bar characteristics, women's behavior in bars tied to their risk for bar-related aggression

A study published in the Journal of Interpersonal Violence found that women who frequent certain kinds of bars and engage in specific behaviors are more likely to experience bar-related aggression. The research, which included 198 high-risk women aged 29, also identified key bar characteristics associated with aggression.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Interpersonal Violence·DateMar 1, 2004

Gene therapy for a broken heart

Researchers developed gene therapy targeting phospholamban, a protein contributing to heart failure. Studies in rats showed improved heart function and reduced scar tissue formation after treatment.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 1, 2004
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The hidden impact of SARS

The study highlights the need for greater support and educational intervention during infectious disease outbreaks. Front-line health care workers are at real danger of becoming infected, as seen in SARS cases where 20% of infected individuals were healthcare workers.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 1, 2004

Orthokeratology contact lenses cause permanent vision loss in children

A study by the Chinese University of Hong Kong found that orthokeratology contact lenses may cause permanent vision loss in children if not worn properly. The study highlights the risks of corneal ulcers and infection associated with overnight OKL wear, which deprives the corneas of oxygen.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateMar 1, 2004

Chicken genome assembled

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have successfully assembled the chicken genome, providing a comprehensive resource for scientists worldwide. The draft assembly is based on seven-fold sequence coverage and has been deposited into public databases for free access.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·DateMar 1, 2004

Field tests advance seismic landmine-detection system

The new system uses high-frequency seismic waves to detect buried mines, distinguishing them from soil and ground clutter. Researchers have demonstrated its advantage in laboratory and limited field tests, with promising results at government testing facilities.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology Research News·DateMar 1, 2004
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.

New imaging technique developed to identify breast cancer

A new imaging technique uses MRI and spectroscopy to analyze choline levels in tumors, accurately identifying malignant carcinomas in 8 out of 8 cases. The study suggests MRSI may aid physicians in diagnosing breast cancer and could potentially replace biopsy in certain cases.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging·DateMar 1, 2004

Teenagers with cancer are missing out on vital services

A UK MP emphasizes the need to increase teenage participation in cancer clinical trials to improve survival rates. Currently, many teenagers face lengthy travel distances for treatment at specialized units, often exceeding 200 miles from their homes.

SourceTeenage Cancer Trust·DateMar 1, 2004

Studies focus on vascular spasm as a common cause of cardiomyopathy

Vascular spasm is an under-recognized source of damage to heart muscle, leading to reduced function and increased risk of death. The study found that correcting genetic defects in heart muscle cells can halt focal degeneration and prevent vascular spasm.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 1, 2004

Toxin combo common in fish appears capable of impairing motor skills

A study published in Toxicological Sciences found that a toxin combination common in fish impairs motor skills, particularly when combined with PCBs. The research suggests that additive toxic effects of these chemicals on human health should be seriously considered.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalToxicological Sciences·DateMar 1, 2004
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Keep prescribing information private

The Canadian Medical Association recommends a national review of pharmacy prescription records confidentiality, calling for Health Canada to establish standards. The pharmaceutical industry should not be responsible for managing the issue.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 1, 2004

Homeless children have high rates of asthma

A study of 740 homeless children in NYC found that 26.9% had a prior diagnosis of asthma and 12.9% reported symptoms consistent with moderate or severe persistent asthma. The authors suggest that high levels of exposure to adverse psychological factors contribute to the severity and undertreatment of asthma in homeless children.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateMar 1, 2004

Memories light up the corners of our minds

Researchers at MIT discovered that memories with emotional arousal are remembered by the amygdala, whereas calm memories are processed by the prefrontal cortex. This finding has important implications for understanding how the brain makes memories and may lead to treatments for memory loss and learning impairments.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 1, 2004

U Iowa study identifies damaging mechanism in transplants and heart attacks

A University of Iowa study suggests that blocking the action of a certain protein involved in inflammation might be beneficial for organ transplantation, heart attacks, and possibly stroke. The study found that selective inhibition of this protein can prevent tissue damage caused by ischemia/reperfusion injury.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 1, 2004

Dads miss opportunity to learn about their kids

A study found that less than half of urban fathers regularly attend doctor's appointments with their young children. The research highlights the need for family-friendly employment policies to encourage father involvement in childcare.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateMar 1, 2004
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.

Teens and young adults – the new frontier in cancer says US cancer specialist

Cancer specialist Professor Bleyer warns that teenagers and young adults are 'orphaned in the world of cancer care delivery,' citing a 25-year stagnation in survival rates compared to children and older adults. The main reasons include delayed diagnosis due to psychological factors, lack of routine medical care, and underinsured status.

SourceTeenage Cancer Trust·DateMar 1, 2004

NIH researchers test promising new therapy for blinding eye disease

Researchers at the NIH's National Eye Institute have developed a new therapy, daclizumab, that controls uveitis inflammation in seven of 10 patients over a four-year period. The therapy is well-tolerated and may allow patients to administer it to themselves at home.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalJournal of Autoimmunity·DateMar 1, 2004

March 2, 2004, Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet

The US Preventive Services Task Force finds insufficient evidence to show that routine screenings for physical abuse and intimate partner violence lead to decreased disability or premature death. Clinicians should remain vigilant and look for signs of abuse or neglect, despite the lack of proof that interventions work.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 1, 2004

PNNL recognized for commercializing technologies

The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) has been awarded three Excellence in Technology Transfer Awards for its innovative technologies. The Electrodynamic Ion Funnel significantly improves the sensitivity of mass spectrometers, enabling the detection of new proteins and biomarkers for cancer early detection. Additionally, alp...

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateMar 1, 2004
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Rensselaer awarded $2.7 million NIH grant to improve drug development process

Researchers at Rensselaer aim to develop a key set of tools to synthesize and screen promising compounds rapidly, identifying those most suitable for further development as potential new drugs. The proposed techniques could speed up the drug development process, reducing costs from $1.7 billion to an unknown amount.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·DateMar 1, 2004

Information paradox solved? If so, black holes are 'fuzzballs'

Physicists at Ohio State University propose a solution to the long-standing information paradox by suggesting that black holes are made up of giant tangles of strings that preserve the information of particles that enter them. This theory resolves the paradox and provides new insights into the nature of black holes.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNuclear Physics B·DateMar 1, 2004

Elective cesarean sections

The Canadian Medical Association Journal explores the trend of elective cesarean sections, highlighting concerns about comparing vaginal birth to planned cesarean delivery. Hannah argues that only a comparison of planned vaginal and planned cesarean births can determine which carries greater risk to mother and baby.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 1, 2004
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.

Minors able to buy nicotine replacement therapy products

A study found that minors can purchase nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) products in 81% of attempts, with most sellers not asking for proof of age. The FDA-approved labeling has little effect on actual sales practice, highlighting the need for improved access to NRT for teens.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateMar 1, 2004

JCI table of contents, March 1 2004

Researchers develop vaccine that prevents tumor growth in mice, while also reversing cardiac dysfunction through gene therapy. These breakthroughs demonstrate the potential of combinatorial approaches to vaccination and gene therapy for treating neoplastic lesions and heart disease.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 1, 2004

Screening removes West Nile from bood supply

In 2003, US blood banks screened nearly 6 million donations for West Nile virus, identifying over 1,000 infected units and removing them from the supply. The screenings reduced the risk of transmission associated with blood transfusions, highlighting the effectiveness of proactive measures in preventing disease spread.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateMar 1, 2004
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.

Physics tip sheet #40 - March 1, 2004

Researchers have made significant discoveries in controlling friction at the nanometer scale, developing more resilient network architectures, and precisely manipulating millions of atoms. These advancements hold promise for improving nanoengineering applications and enhancing our understanding of fundamental mechanisms.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 1, 2004

Blacks at greater risk for developing cataracts

A study by the American Academy of Ophthalmology found that blacks are 1.8 times more likely to develop cataracts than whites, with a three-fold risk of cortical cataract development in black populations. The increased risk is attributed to high rates of diabetes, hypertension, and abdominal obesity in black populations.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateMar 1, 2004

Patients should be consulted before dialysis treatment begins

A study found that both hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis improved general functioning and well-being, but with different outcomes. Peritoneal dialysis patients showed improvements in finances, while hemodialysis patients had better sleep.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMar 1, 2004

Desert science center aims to bridge rift between Jordan and Israel

The Bridging the Rift Center will study the unique ecology of the Dead Sea region, transforming a remote desert into a thriving science and technology village. The center will symbolically straddle the border, bringing together scientists from Jordan, Israel, and international partners.

SourceStanford University·DateMar 1, 2004
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.

Fast food chains like to be close to the competition

A study by Professor Michael Waterson found that fast food chains like McDonald's and Burger King locate closely together in shopping districts due to competition. The larger the population area, the sooner a McDonald's outlet opens, but this effect diminishes as population increases.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateMar 1, 2004

Targeted antiviral prophylaxis of flu case contacts could successfully contain pandemic influenza

Using targeted antiviral prophylaxis (TAP) on close contacts of suspected flu cases can effectively contain an epidemic, with only 2% of the population becoming ill and a death rate of 0.04 per 1,000 people. TAP is nearly as effective as vaccinating 80% of the entire population, especially when used for eight weeks.

SourceEmory University Health Sciences Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateMar 1, 2004

New Web site for biogeoscience community announced

The new website will collect and organize resources such as funding opportunities, research programs, and conferences, facilitating the growth of the biogeoscience field. It will also feature a discussion forum and image gallery, supporting scientists in defining the field and addressing its future.

SourceGeological Society of America·DateMar 1, 2004

Viral immunosuppression: Not just a game of hide and go seek

Researchers have identified a dual strategy used by viruses to subvert the immune system, involving the targeting of hematopoietic progenitors and inhibition of dendritic cell maturation. This study sheds light on the mechanisms of viral immunosuppression, enabling better understanding of immune evasion tactics.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 1, 2004
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Researchers to design intervention for work-related injury

Researchers are developing an intervention to prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) in a rat model. They will examine the effects of ergonomic and pharmaceutical interventions to stop the condition from becoming chronic. The five-year study aims to refine treatment and save people from further pain and disability.

SourceTemple University·DateMar 1, 2004

Cancer rates in teens and early 20s rising

Researchers found a significant increase in cancer cases among teenagers and young adults, with certain cancers dominating at different ages. The study suggests that environmental risk factors and genetic susceptibility may play a role in the increasing incidence of adolescent and young adult cancer.

SourceTeenage Cancer Trust·DateMar 1, 2004

New technique dates Saharan groundwater as million years old

Researchers use ATTA, a highly sensitive method, to measure krypton-81 in groundwater, estimating ages of 200,000 to 1,000,000 years. The study reveals ancient water transported by air masses from the Atlantic Ocean, reflecting climate conditions different from today.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMar 1, 2004
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.

Vaccine nips breast cancer in the bud

A new vaccine has been shown to halt HER-2/neu preneoplastic breast cancer lesions through both morphologic and gene expression data. The findings suggest a potential breakthrough in the treatment of this type of cancer, according to a recent study published in JCI Journals.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 1, 2004

Wavefront-guided LASIK improves contrast sensitivity

The study found that 88% of patients treated with wavefront-guided LASIK showed improved contrast sensitivity, compared to 40% for standard LASIK. This technology reduces higher-order distortions, leading to sharper vision with greater contrast sensitivity.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateMar 1, 2004

Breast cancer follow-ups 'no longer guess-work' thanks to new physics research

Researchers developed a model to calculate the optimal length of follow-up time for breast cancer patients without significantly reducing detection rates. By reducing follow-up periods from ten years to four years, six years' worth of physician time and outpatient costs could be redirected to more effective treatment processes.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysics in Medicine and Biology·DateMar 1, 2004