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Science News for November 8, 2004


Study will assess effect of tomato oil on precancerous prostate changes

Researchers are exploring the potential of tomato oil to reverse or delay progression of high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN), a precursor to prostate cancer. The study, led by Dr. Peter Gann, aims to clarify lycopene's mechanisms in the prostate and determine its chemopreventive potential.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateNov 8, 2004

Doctors transplant ovary to woman's arm to preserve fertility

In a breakthrough procedure, doctors have successfully transplanted a healthy ovary from a patient's body into her upper arm, preserving her fertility. The innovative technique uses brachial vessels to establish blood supply and has shown promising results in maintaining cyclical follicular growth.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateNov 8, 2004

TRMM satellite proves El Nino holds the reins on global rains

Researchers used TRMM data to identify areas with greatest year-to-year change in rainfall between 1998 and 2003, finding a strong correlation with the El Nino Southern Oscillation. Global rainfall patterns are influenced by El Nino, but some regions like the Bay of Bengal remain unaffected.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 8, 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.

International marine survey of coral death

Marine scientists aim to fill information gaps on coral reef ecosystems to strengthen global management and policy interventions. The assessment focuses on identifying sources of new marine pathogens, reducing inputs, and developing control measures.

SourceCornell University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateNov 8, 2004

Heart surgery patients receive less aggressive discharge care

Duke University researchers found that heart surgery patients receive less aggressive discharge care, with gaps in the use of life-saving medications and behavior modifications. The study, based on data from a national registry, revealed underuse of aspirin, beta-blockers, and statins among surgical patients.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·DateNov 8, 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 insights into muscle adaptation to exercise

Researchers found that exercise increases VEGF production, which leads to an increase in capillaries within specific muscle fiber types. This change ultimately results in an anaerobic to aerobic shift in the affected muscle fibers.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·DateNov 8, 2004

New magnetic percutaneous system navigates vessels

A new magnetic-assisted intervention system has shown a high success rate in navigating tortuous coronary arteries, making it easier to treat patients with difficult lesions. The system, developed by Stereotaxis, Inc., uses two permanent magnets to generate a magnetic field and guide wires through the heart.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 8, 2004

Good fats decrease multiple heart disease risk factors

A diet high in walnuts decreases C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation associated with heart disease. The study found that walnut consumption lowered total cholesterol, LDLs, and triglycerides, while also reducing inflammatory markers.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Nutrition·DateNov 8, 2004

Not the end, but the beginning of the world as we know it

Researchers suggest oxygen may have appeared 100 million years before its previously believed debut, based on improved dating and proxy measures. The shift from a reducing to an oxidizing atmosphere is linked to volcanic activity and the production of water vapor and carbon dioxide.

SourcePenn State·DateNov 8, 2004
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.

Method developed to replicate stem cells from the heart

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have successfully replicated heart stem cells using a new technique, producing over 100 million cells in four weeks. The resulting cardiospheres contain cells that can regenerate and develop into specialized heart cells.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·DateNov 8, 2004

News tips for Monday, November 8, 2004

Researchers found microwave energy successfully ablates AF in most patients, while anxiety and low social support are associated with higher risk of relapse in heart failure patients. Additionally, women with non-ST elevation heart disease undergoing angioplasty face a higher risk of adverse events compared to men.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 8, 2004

Delays in test result reviewing common

A study found that 83% of physicians reported delays in reviewing test results, which can jeopardize patient safety and satisfaction. Physicians also identified tools to help manage test results, such as generating result letters and tracking test orders.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 8, 2004
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Changing ecosystems

Researchers find that invasive trout reduce forest spiders by altering stream food webs, highlighting the impact of species invasions on ecosystem connectivity. The matrix plays a crucial role in determining the effectiveness of corridors and stepping stones in increasing landscape connectivity.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcology·DateNov 8, 2004

Conversion of flower organs into leaves

A recent study by Gary Ditta and coworkers has identified a gene, SEP4, that plays a crucial role in converting leaf-like organs into flowers. The researchers found that the loss of activity of all four closely related genes results in the conversion of flower organs toward leaves.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 8, 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.

Smoking triggers early onset of pancreatic cancer

Researchers found that patients with a family history of pancreatic cancer are more likely to be diagnosed at an earlier age and have a smoking history. The study suggests that strong counseling against smoking is necessary for these patients, as well as smoking cessation programs.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateNov 8, 2004

Close control of blood pressure associated with fewer eye problems in patients with type 2 diabetes

A study of 1,148 hypertensive patients with type 2 diabetes found that tight blood pressure control reduced the incidence of diabetic retinopathy and visual loss by 47% over seven years. The researchers discovered a lower risk of microaneurysms and blindness in the tight BP control group compared to those with less stringent policies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Ophthalmology·DateNov 8, 2004

Tone language translates to perfect pitch

Researchers found that native Mandarin speakers are almost nine times more likely to have the ability. Early music training also plays a significant role in developing perfect pitch, with Chinese students showing higher incidence rates than U.S. counterparts.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateNov 8, 2004

UC Santa Barbara researchers discover living nanoscale 'necklace'

Scientists at UC Santa Barbara discovered a new type of microtubule assembly, resulting in a 'living necklace' phase. This discovery has implications for the development of vehicles for chemical, drug, and gene delivery, as well as templates for nanosized wires and optical materials.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 8, 2004
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New medication dramatically decreases congestive heart failure in African-American patients

African-American Heart Failure Trial (A-HeFT) reveals a 43% decrease in one-year mortality rates among patients taking the combined treatment, and significant improvements in overall survival and quality of life. The study suggests that BiDil can slow heart failure progression and reduce death rates in this population.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 8, 2004

HIV-1 protease inhibitors: Effective against malaria?

Researchers found that HIV-1 protease inhibitors, such as saquinavir and ritonavir, effectively inhibit P. falciparum growth and demonstrate anti-malarial activity. The study builds on previous findings of antiretroviral agents reducing parasite adhesion to endothelial surfaces.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateNov 8, 2004
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.

Heart attack, stroke risk overlooked in diabetics

A study found that people with type 2 diabetes are not being optimally managed for their cardiovascular risk. Fewer than 25% of patients were on medication needed to control high cholesterol and less than 50% received treatment for high blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateNov 8, 2004

Antidepressant may help people stop smoking when used with nicotine patch

A study found that combining antidepressant medication nortriptyline with a nicotine patch significantly increased smoking cessation rates at six months. The treatment showed a 23% success rate, compared to 10% for those receiving a placebo. However, participants taking nortriptyline experienced more side effects.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 8, 2004

Look at past sea-level rise points to troubling future

Sea levels have been rising worldwide for at least 10,000 years. Rising ocean temperatures and glacial runoff could lead to a 90-centimeter increase by 2100, overwhelming coastal structures like barrier islands and tidal wetlands. Local geography and geology also play a role in estimating effects of rising seas.

SourceRice University·DateNov 8, 2004
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.

New source for heart bypass replacement blood vessels: Fibrin-based TEVs

A multi-disciplinary team at SUNY Buffalo designed fibrin gel matrix-based vessel ready for test transplantation after only two weeks in culture, exhibiting remarkable remodeling and physiological levels of blood flow. The study holds significant promise for treatment of vascular disease and as a model system to address questions with ...

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateNov 8, 2004

A new target for control of obesity

Researchers discovered that Shp-2, a tyrosine phosphatase, plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and increasing sensitivity to leptin. The study found that mice with early-onset obesity had increased levels of leptin, insulin, glucose, and triglycerides.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 8, 2004

Asymmetric organs and microRNA-directed DNA modification

In Arabidopsis leaves, specific mutations affect leaf patterning by altering microRNA binding sites. MicroRNAs interact with nascent mRNA to alter chromatin states, leading to reduced methylation of PHB and PHV genes. This study demonstrates the role of microRNA-directed DNA modification in regulating plant development.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateNov 8, 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.

Scientists uncover secret to sharp teeth

A new research study reveals that follistatin, a gene playing a critical role in organ patterning, regulates enamel formation on mouse incisors. The asymmetric expression of follistatin accounts for the distinct patterning of enamel formation and is required for the formation of enamel-free tooth regions.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateNov 8, 2004

Study pinpoints schizophrenia brain glitch

Researchers found that schizophrenic patients lacked gamma band response, indicating defective communication between neurons, while healthy brains showed synchronized activity at 40 hertz. The study suggests that drugs promoting a normal gamma response may help alleviate schizophrenia symptoms.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 8, 2004

Astronauts submit first medical research paper from space

The study investigates the accuracy of ultrasound in novel clinical conditions and assesses its feasibility for monitoring musculoskeletal changes in astronauts. The findings suggest that remote-guided ultrasound may be an effective method for performing diagnostic exams, with implications for emergency and rural medicine on Earth.

SourceRadiological Society of North America·JournalRadiology·DateNov 8, 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.

High-predator environment has unexpected impact on aging in fish

A study by UC Riverside researchers has found that fish living in high-predator environments challenge classical evolutionary theories on aging. They have been shown to live longer, exhibit lower mortality rates, and maintain higher levels of fertility compared to those from low-predator environments.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature·DateNov 8, 2004

Alzheimer's drug improves memory of MS patients

A study found that people with multiple sclerosis who took an Alzheimer's medication showed significant improvements in memory and cognitive function compared to those taking a placebo. The treatment had no serious side effects, but its long-term effectiveness remains unknown.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateNov 8, 2004

Head movements by warblers could reveal basis for birds' geomagnetic sense

Researchers have discovered a new mechanism by which migratory songbirds sense geomagnetic fields and orient their flight. Head-scanning behavior is used by birds to detect the direction of the Earth's magnetic field, allowing them to navigate during yearly journeys covering thousands of kilometers.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 8, 2004

Impaired neuromotor function following cancer treatment can improve

Researchers found that patients' neuromotor functions, including problem-solving and motor skills, significantly declined after cancer treatment but recovered within a year. Factors such as chemotherapy type and immune suppressant use lowered the risk of impaired function.

SourceAmerican Society of Hematology·JournalBlood·DateNov 8, 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.

Cancer researchers seek to predict tumor growth

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University are developing predictive cancer models to target mismatch repair defective malignancies, which cause hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer and other types of cancer. The goal is to better understand and predict tumor growth using genomics, proteomics, and molecular imaging.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateNov 8, 2004

For yeast, a DNA break ensures sex switch for a grandchild

Researchers have identified a novel imprinting mechanism in yeast that controls sexual switching by marking genomic DNA with a simple single-strand break. This breakthrough discovery has general implications for how DNA can be marked for asymmetric inheritance affecting cell destiny.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 8, 2004

ACE inhibitors not needed for many heart disease patients, according to new study

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that ACE inhibitors do not provide added cardiovascular protection for patients with coronary heart disease who have normal or only mildly reduced heart function. These findings suggest that many patients with this condition may not need to take ACE inhibitors, potentia...

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 8, 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.

Fingerprints in the sky explained

Researchers used elliptic integrals to predict polarisation patterns in skylight, finding that singularities play a vital role in shaping the overall pattern. The study provides a simple and beautiful explanation for this natural phenomenon.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateNov 8, 2004

Reports says Uganda's forests worth $350 million/year

Uganda's forests generate significant income from forest products like charcoal and firewood, contributing up to 36% of annual income for local people. The report concludes that conserving these forests is crucial in alleviating poverty, but current efforts face funding constraints.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·DateNov 8, 2004
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.