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Science News for September 24, 2004


New sequence involved in DNA replication timing may aid in cancer detection

Huberman and Yompakdee found a stretch of DNA surrounding late-firing origins that contains repeats rich in the nucleic acid component guanine. These repeats, called Late Consensus Sequences (LCS), affect replication timing, with more copies causing regions to replicate late.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateSep 24, 2004

Brightly colored cups, plates spur food, beverage consumption in advanced Alzheimer's disease

A study published in Clinical Nutrition found that the use of high-contrast colored tableware increased food intake by 24.6% and liquid intake by 83.7% in individuals with severe Alzheimer's disease. The study, led by Boston University researchers, suggests that visual impairment may be a contributing factor to weight loss in AD patients.

SourceBoston University·JournalClinical Nutrition·DateSep 24, 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.

Lennart Nilsson Award

The Lennart Nilsson Award honors Göran Scharmer for his groundbreaking solar research, including the development of the Swedish 1-m Solar Telescope. The award is presented annually by Karolinska Institutet and includes a prize of SEK 100,000.

SourceSwedish Research Council·DateSep 24, 2004

Rice finds 'on-off switch' for buckyball toxicity

Researchers at Rice University discovered a method to mitigate buckyball nanoparticle toxicity by enhancing their surface properties. By modifying the surface of buckyballs with specific molecules, they can dramatically reduce their toxicity to individual cells.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 24, 2004

Study reveals function of lipid in neuronal synapses

A study by Yale University researchers reveals that lowering a specific lipid in nerve terminals affects neurotransmitter exchange between neurons. The findings have implications for understanding synaptic transmission and potentially developing new treatments for diseases like Down syndrome, cancer, and diabetes.

SourceYale University·JournalNature·DateSep 24, 2004

Alaska scientists find Arctic tundra yields surprising carbon loss

Researchers found that fertilized tundra soils release significantly more carbon dioxide to the atmosphere, offsetting any potential storage by plants. The study suggests a greater positive feedback loop to further warming, potentially leading to increased atmospheric CO2 concentrations.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalNature·DateSep 24, 2004

UMaine anthropologist wins Solon T. Kimball Award

Acheson's work uses rational choice theory to understand how groups develop rules to conserve resources, with applications to managing other threatened natural resources. He is recognized for his contributions to applied anthropology and public policy.

SourceUniversity of Maine·DateSep 24, 2004
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Imagery reduces children's post-operative pain, study finds

A study found that imagery reduced children's post-operative pain and anxiety after elective tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy. The 'To Tame the Hurting Thing' intervention, which included deep breathing and relaxation techniques, was effective in reducing pain levels.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalPain·DateSep 24, 2004

ORNL engineer recognized for contributions

The ORNL engineer was honored for his breakthrough research in diesel engine emissions control and inter-laboratory teaming. He also received awards for developing a process to improve combustion stability, being an outstanding alumnus of the National Consortium for Graduate Degrees for Minorities in Engineering and Science.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateSep 24, 2004

Spun from bone

A team from PNNL and USC has identified the region of a protein that interacts with crystals to form enamel, a material with entirely different properties from bone. The discovery explains how proteins can control crystal structure, enabling nano-patterning and nano-building.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateSep 24, 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.