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Science News Archive March 2004 - Page 2


Page 2 of 14

Minimally invasive breast cancer treatment shows promise

Researchers successfully treated 21 small breast cancers with RF ablation, destroying malignant tissue with no adverse effects. However, surrounding tissue was not removed, limiting the procedure's effectiveness as a standalone treatment.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateMar 30, 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.

March/April 2004 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

Research highlights the potential risks of high-protein diets, parental happiness impacting birth weight, and frequent medical errors in family physician offices. Simple dietary restrictions may reduce mortality risk associated with high transferrin saturation, while maternal report of partner happiness can predict birth weight.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateMar 30, 2004

Single cocaine exposure boosts both drug craving and avoidance

A recent study published in PNAS found that single cocaine exposure can increase both morphine preference and kappa-opioid receptor agonist aversion in rats. This suggests the existence of opposing brain circuits involved in drug craving and avoidance, with potential implications for treating addiction by modulating these pathways.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 30, 2004

New therapeutic approach for sickle cell disease

Researchers have developed a novel approach to modify alpha globin, potentially providing more effective treatments for sickle cell disease. Genetically engineered mice with the disease showed improved blood counts and extended lifespan after producing zeta globin.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 30, 2004
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Chemists seek light-activated glue for vascular repair

Virginia Tech researchers are creating biocompatible adhesives that can be activated with light to mend vascular tissue. The novel polymer has been shown to have promising properties for laser-assisted vascular repair, potentially speeding up the healing process and reducing complications.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateMar 30, 2004

Antarctic fish study may aid cardiac research

Scientists studying an Antarctic 'cod' are gaining insights into how its unique physiology helps it survive in icy waters. By understanding how the fish adapts to environmental change, researchers hope to develop new treatments for human heart conditions.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·DateMar 30, 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.

Making the most of stem cells

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a new storage method that increases stem cell survival rates by over 20 times, allowing for more efficient and reliable research. The technique uses a gel matrix with trehalose to protect cells from freezing and thawing damage.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·DateMar 30, 2004

Bird's song may be linked to speech disorders

A UCLA study finds that FoxP1 and FoxP2 genes shared by humans and songbirds may play a critical role in human speech and speech disorders. The study suggests that understanding these genes could lead to new medications for speech disorders.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·DateMar 30, 2004
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.

ERI patents treatments for insulin resistance in diabetes accompanying obesity

Researchers at the Eleanor Roosevelt Institute have patented a new treatment for type II diabetes, focusing on regulating insulin resistance by manipulating melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) levels. The approach has shown promise in genetically engineered mice and may offer a new direction in understanding and treating the disease.

SourceUniversity of Denver·JournalEndocrinology·DateMar 30, 2004

Damania of UNC receives Elion cancer research award

Dr. Blossom A. Damania has been awarded the $50,000 Gertrude B. Elion Cancer Research Award for her research on tumor virology and Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). This award recognizes her groundbreaking work in deciphering how the virus can transform cells into malignancies.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·DateMar 30, 2004

Sedative may offer new direction in colon cancer treatment

Researchers have found that Nembutal, a sedative, can suppress the growth of colon cancer cells by inhibiting gamma-aminobutyric acid receptors. The study suggests a novel approach to treating cancers with neurotransmitter receptors on their surfaces.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateMar 30, 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.

Having emergency contraception at home does not boost rate of unprotected sex among teens

A University of Pittsburgh study found that providing young women with emergency contraceptive pills at home did not lead to an increase in unprotected sex or inconsistent contraceptive use. Instead, the study showed a corresponding increase in condom use among those who received the pills.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalJournal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology·DateMar 30, 2004

Purdue engineers design 'shape-search' for industry databases

A new shape-search system developed by Purdue engineers allows employees to search huge industry databases using sketches of parts or selecting similar-shaped parts. The system reduces design time by up to 80% by indexing parts based on their geometry and features, providing valuable background information about part production costs.

SourcePurdue University·DateMar 30, 2004
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.

Increasing the risk of cancer

A study found that the anti-inflammatory drug nimesulide triggered angiogenesis and increased pancreatic cancer cell growth in COX-2 negative tumor cells, but inhibited tumor growth in COX-2 positive cells. Researchers plan to test other COX-2 inhibitors for similar effects.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateMar 30, 2004

Streamlining the 'pythagorean theorem of baseball'

Researchers developed a simplified formula to predict team winning percentages, using only addition, subtraction, and multiplication. The new linear function works almost as well as the original Pythagorean theorem in predicting team performance.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateMar 29, 2004
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.

A new spin on spirochetes

Researchers have discovered profound differences in the gene content of T. denticola, an oral pathogen associated with gum disease, compared to other spirochetes that cause syphilis and Lyme disease. The study's findings highlight the power of comparative genomics in understanding how related pathogens can cause different diseases.

SourceThe Institute for Genomic Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 29, 2004

Nanoparticles from the ocean and vehicle emissions

Research at UC Davis explores the effects of ocean nanoparticles and vehicle emissions on atmospheric conditions. The study aims to develop models for measuring and predicting nanoparticle transients in the atmosphere.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateMar 29, 2004

Why fashion-buying is central to the life of high street stores

A study led by Dr Joanne Entwistle highlights the importance of fashion buyers' knowledge in translating market identity into products. The research focused on a large department store's women's wear team, finding that building markets and consumers is essential for success.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateMar 29, 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.

An alternative to bone-marrow donation

Researchers found that ES cell lines can restore blood cells, including immune systems, in mice without being rejected. This breakthrough has potential advantages over traditional bone marrow or blood donations, offering a renewable source with low risk of graft-versus-host disease.

SourceJournal of Experimental Medicine·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMar 29, 2004

Active lifestyle reduces risk of endometrial cancer

A study found that regular exercise, as well as routine activities like walking for transportation or performing household chores, can reduce a woman's risk of endometrial cancer. The research team assessed physical activity from various periods in life and found significant benefits for women with higher levels of physical activity.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·DateMar 29, 2004
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Why AL batters get beaned more often

A recent study by mathematicians and economists found that National League pitchers are more likely to throw inside pitches, increasing the risk of hitting batters. This 'moral hazard' theory suggests that the rule's impact is not due to lower costs for NL pitchers, but rather their fear of retaliation when stepping up to bat.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateMar 29, 2004

Duke chemists describe new kind of 'nanotube' transistor

Researchers at Duke University have developed a new type of nanotube transistor that uses an electrically conducting polymer gate to reduce power demand and improve device performance. The innovation offers great promise for future electronic devices, including those even smaller than current models.

SourceDuke University·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 29, 2004

Caustic soils at Hanford may lock up contaminants fast

Researchers found that caustic soils at Hanford can trap radioactive cesium and strontium, forming stable minerals like zeolites and feldspathoids. This discovery may aid in remediation efforts by slowing down the migration of toxic waste into groundwater.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateMar 29, 2004
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.

Bizarre attractive force found in mayonnaise

Scientists at Rice University have discovered an attractive force in mayonnaise using the phenomenon of negative normal stress. This finding has significant implications for the development of new emulsions and dispersions with practical applications.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 29, 2004

Enlisting carbon nanotubes to unmask nerve agents

Researchers developed a disposable sensor using carbon nanotubes and enzymes to detect OP nerve agents. The sensor can detect traces of up to 5 parts per billion, making it a promising tool for identifying toxin exposure.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateMar 29, 2004
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.

Angiogenesis gene linked to biomarkers in breast cancer

Scientists at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center have found a link between the HOXB7 gene and increased activity in breast cancer biomarkers. The study shows that the gene is overexpressed in more than 60% of breast cancer cell lines and 90% of primary breast cancers.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·DateMar 29, 2004

Coal source of jet fuel for next generation aircraft

Researchers at Penn State have created a thermally stable coal-based jet fuel, provisionally designated as JP900, which can absorb significant amounts of heat and remain stable up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit. This fuel has potential benefits in reducing engine deposits and improving cold weather performance.

SourcePenn State·DateMar 29, 2004

Environmental and dietary influences on cancer risk

Studies show that exposure to environmental carcinogens can cause DNA damage in the womb, increasing cancer risk. The fetus is more susceptible to genetic damage than the mother, highlighting the need for preventive policies.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateMar 29, 2004
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.

Study points to a promising new test for myelodysplasia, a blood disorder often leading to leukemia

A new DNA test using Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy has been developed to identify patients with myelodysplasia (MDS) or those at high risk of developing the disease. The test is highly predictive and can distinguish MDS patients from those with non-malignant bone marrow disorders.

SourcePacific Northwest Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 29, 2004

Learning how to erase electronic paper

Jeanne E. Pemberton's research reveals that changing the electrical charge on electronic paper affects how well ink sticks, enabling the development of reusable tablets. The study uses the 'emersion' method to analyze molecular interactions at the interface between liquids and solids.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·DateMar 29, 2004

Snake venom may power-out bloodstains from clothes

A study found that a component of snake venom can help remove stubborn bloodstains from clothes, with fibrinolytic enzymes facilitating the breakdown of blood protein fibrin. Researchers successfully tested the enzyme on blood-stained denim swatches, showing significantly fainter stains after treatment.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 29, 2004

Surgery cuts cardiac arrests among those with rare heart disorder

A 40-minute surgical procedure called left cardiac sympathetic denervation (LCSD) reduces the risk of cardiac arrest and fainting episodes in people with long QT syndrome, a rare heart disorder. The study found that LCSD surgery reduced cardiac events by 91 percent compared to pre-surgery rates.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMar 29, 2004
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.

Acrylamide in food: Unraveling exposure and risk

New studies examine acrylamide levels in foods such as potato chips, breads and cereals. Researchers have found that cooking conditions influence acrylamide levels, with some foods showing low levels despite popular assumption.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateMar 29, 2004

Pesticide detection on a chip

Scientists at UC Davis create a novel fluorescent assay for detecting pesticides on a chip, utilizing lanthanide oxide nanoparticles as a reporter. The approach has the potential to improve pesticide detection in environmental testing and other fields.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateMar 29, 2004