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Science News Archive May 2004


Page 6 of 13

ADAM: Good enzyme for Alzheimer disease

Researchers found that increased expression of ADAM10 reduced AB peptide formation and prevented plaque formation in an Alzheimer disease mouse model. This suggests that targeting alpha-secretase might be a useful therapeutic target for AD.

Chemical company earnings jump in 2004 first quarter

Demand for US chemical products increased while firms cut costs. Dow Chemical topped sales at $9.3 billion, followed by DuPont at $8 billion. DuPont led earnings with $964 million, ahead of Dow's $469 million increase in the same quarter last year.

Oxygen therapy may improve vision worsened by diabetes

A study published in Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science found that breathing supplemental oxygen for three months reduced fluid buildup and swelling in the macula, and improved visual acuity in some cases. The therapy was found to reduce excess thickness of the macula by an average of 43 percent.

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.

One step further toward treatment for degenerative diseases

Researchers at McGill University have identified a central enzyme that can sense subtle changes in protein folding, enabling the removal of misfolded proteins from cells. This discovery may lead to innovative prevention and treatment strategies for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Advances emerging in hepatitis management

Research has identified improved screening programs for HIV coinfection with chronic hepatitis C, as well as predictive models for inflammation and fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B. These advances aim to improve treatment decisions and quality of life for affected individuals.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Land Regeneration Network celebrates first year success

The Land Regeneration Network has achieved rapid membership growth, now standing at 1250 individuals from 890 companies and organisations across Wales. The network provides a high-quality information resource and business networking events, contributing to the growing demand for clear technical information in the environmental sector.

GI health affected by consumption of coffee and carbonated drinks

Researchers found an inverse correlation between coffee and caffeine consumption and liver injury, which declined with increasing coffee drinking and caffeine intake. Carbonated soft drink consumption was also linked to a rise in esophageal adenocarcinoma rates, with a strong correlation seen between the two.

JCI table of contents, 17 May 2004

A study on transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) and prion protein PrPSc accumulation in muscle tissue of infected rodents found that the defective form of PrPSc is present prior to clinical symptoms. The accumulation of PrPSc is greatest after clinical symptoms are well established.

Diabetes linked to increased risk of Alzheimer's in long-term study

A long-term study found that people with diabetes are at a 65% increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease compared to those without the condition. The study also showed that cognitive decline in perceptual speed was associated with diabetes, but not other cognitive systems.

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.

Study: Low-carb diet more effective than low-fat diet

A randomized, controlled trial found that a low-carb diet with vitamin supplements led to greater weight loss, body fat reduction, and improved cholesterol levels than a low-fat diet. However, the low-carb group experienced more adverse physical effects.

Two studies weigh in on low-carb diets

Two studies found that low-carbohydrate diets led to greater weight loss in obese adults than conventional diets. The low-carb group showed improvements in triglyceride levels and better control of blood sugar for those with diabetes.

New insight into how tumors resist radiation

New research reveals that hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) plays a key role in tumor cells' ability to resist radiation therapy. By understanding how this protective response is activated, scientists hope to develop effective treatments to enhance radiation's effectiveness against tumors.

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.

Diabetics at significantly higher risk for Alzheimer's disease

Researchers from Rush University Medical Center have discovered that diabetics are at a significantly higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The study, which followed over 800 Catholic nuns and priests for five years, found a 65% increase in the risk of AD among those with diabetes.

Scientists track protein linked to movement disorder

Researchers identify torsinA, a protein defective in DYT1 dystonia, and discover its role in the nuclear envelope. The study provides new insights into potential treatments for movement disorders and secondary dystonias.

Anti-clotting treatment underused at many hospitals

A study reveals that anti-clotting treatment is underused at many hospitals in the US, with significant differences between academic and community hospitals. The American Heart Association's Get With The Guidelines program aims to bridge this gap and simplify patient care.

Imaging study shows brain maturing

A decade-long brain development study using MRI scans shows that higher-order brain centers, such as the prefrontal cortex, mature later in life. Gray matter wanes in a back-to-front wave as neural connections are pruned, with areas performing basic functions maturing earlier.

Hamster hamburger anyone?

Oral exposure to scrapie has been shown to lead to the deposition of pathological prion protein PrPSc in hamster muscles. This preclinical study provides new insights into the progression of prion diseases.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Body fat and its role in breast cancer

A large prospective cohort study found that body size was more strongly associated with breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women than premenopausal women. Obesity was linked to an increased risk of breast cancer in women not using hormone replacement therapy (HRT), while those on HRT with a low BMI had an increased risk.

New screening method turns up potential compound for treating anthrax

The team discovered a compound called DS-998 that shows promising activity against anthrax lethal factor in cell cultures, blocking the molecule's harmful cutting action. Mass spectrometry is used to screen a library of compounds, enabling rapid screening and reducing costs associated with drug development.

New compound may act to keep thyroid activity in check

Researchers discovered a new compound, T1 amine, that rapidly induces hypothermia, slows heart rate, and drops blood pressure in mice. This effect may provide a valuable tool to manage patients with acute hypermetabolic states, including hyperthyroidism.

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.

Research targets biologic profile of obesity

A study found that morbidly obese patients experience increased minimal distending pressure and exaggerated gastric accommodation during meals, leading to overeating and weight loss challenges. Researchers suggest addressing biological barriers differently through surgery or alternative methods.

Psychological factors may be root of back pain, say Stanford researchers

Researchers followed patients with no initial back pain and found that those with poor coping skills, chronic pain, or disputed workers' compensation claims were nearly three times more likely to develop back pain. The study suggests that treating psychological factors may be a more effective approach than surgery for some patients.

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Even health-conscious women going without colonoscopy

A recent study found that even health-conscious women are more likely to have had a mammogram or Pap smear than undergone a colonoscopy. Doctors suggest using breast cancer screening appointments as an opportunity to educate women about colorectal cancer risk and increase awareness.

Dartmouth researchers advance fight against pancreatic cancer

Researchers have made breakthroughs in understanding the molecular mechanisms driving pancreatic cancer's rapid growth and resistance to treatment. They've identified new targets for therapy, including a protein sponge that suppresses tumor growth and a novel mechanism for chemoresistance.

Computer system makes 'chain' of health care stronger, safer

A unique computer system developed at the University of Michigan Health System reduces risks while improving patient care quality and continuity. The Discharge Navigator system automates information transfer, streamlines handoffs, and enhances patient education and satisfaction.

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.

Labs-on-a-chip to detect milk contamination

A new lab-on-a-chip technology can detect milk contamination and identify the botulinum toxin in as little as an hour with test results available in minutes. This innovation could lead to faster treatment for potential botulism toxin exposure, reducing its high specific toxicity as a bioterrorism threat.

Emory study finds mental health and heart disease tightly linked

A recent Emory University study found that adults with better mental health have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Only 17% of the sample met full mental health criteria, highlighting the need for healthcare professionals to consider mental well-being in treating patients with heart conditions.

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.

Out-of-school activities and adolescents behavior

A study of 819 early adolescents found that unsupervised out-of-home care and lack of parental monitoring predict increased problem behaviors. In contrast, consistent adult supervision and community engagement appear protective against these issues.

Scientists discover secret of dolphin speed

Researchers found that soft flaky skin helps reduce drag caused by friction and shedding of the skin disturbs whirlpools of water called vortices, reducing drag. The study could help build faster boats and submarines using natural dolphin-inspired solutions.

Nature or nuture?

Research identifies genetic and environmental protective factors contributing to childhood resilience. Genetic factors influence behavioral and cognitive resilience to poverty, while maternal involvement in stimulating activities helps promote intellectual development. Both genetic and social-environmental sources of protection are inv...

Chronic fatigue syndrome and Gulf War veterans

A study found a higher prevalence of the D variant in the ACE gene among Gulf War veterans with chronic fatigue syndrome. Veterans with specific genetic variants were more likely to develop CFS/ICF, suggesting an interaction between genetics and environmental factors related to deployment.

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.

Parents' ability to discourage adolescent problem behavior

A study found that parents' close relationships with their children and efforts to monitor their behavior can help prevent adolescents from engaging in substance use and delinquent activities. Parental control was also a strong predictor of lower levels of problem behavior, regardless of the level of knowledge gained through monitoring.

Increasing ozone over the Atlantic ocean

Researchers found large ozone trends in low latitudes and the Southern Hemisphere, indicating the ozone smog problem has expanded globally. The study suggests that increasing energy use worldwide causes large-scale ozone increases, reducing global air quality.

Message to moms

Research suggests that when mothers use a controlling approach, children become disengaged and perform poorly in school. In contrast, an autonomy-supportive approach improves children's performance immediately and leads to better grades over time. The study emphasizes the importance of this parenting style for low-achieving children.

The Strong African American Families Program

The program, which translates research into prevention programming, focused on mothers and their 11-year-old children. Participants showed improved skills in parenting behaviors, such as discipline and communication, leading to better outcomes for the young people.

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.

Satellites see shadows of ancient glaciers

Researchers using GPS satellites have discovered a pattern of land movement across North America, with Canadian sites rising and US sites south of the Great Lakes sinking. This post-glacial rebound affects not only industries but also international water management.

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.

Bird's eye views earth's magnetic lines

Researchers found that birds' photoreceptors can detect the Earth's magnetic field by sensing changes in light energy. This process involves specialized visual systems that allow animals to navigate using the magnetic compass. The discovery sheds new light on the mechanisms behind animal magnetism and its potential applications.

Why youngsters try to do impossible things

Common in 18- to 30-month-old children, scale errors occur when youngsters try to perform actions on miniature objects despite knowing they're too small. The study suggests a failure of inhibitory control and immaturity of the prefrontal cortex.

Better research needed to assess psychological and social effects of cannabis

A review of general population longitudinal studies found consistent associations between cannabis use and lower educational attainment and increased use of other illicit drugs. However, the evidence was less clear on psychological health problems and problematic behavior. The authors emphasize the need for more research to better unde...

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.