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Science News for April 5, 2005


Satellite images give a better picture of sediment transport

Satellite images help model sediment transport in New Caledonia's southwest lagoon, providing a three-dimensional picture of the process. The combined use of remote sensing and numerical models refines predictions of erosion rates and improves precision.

SourceInstitut de recherche pour le développement·JournalCoral Reefs·DateApr 5, 2005

Study examines effectiveness of anti-anemia drug in treatment of cancer patients

A meta-analysis of 27 clinical trials found that erythropoietin treatment lowers the likelihood of needing a blood transfusion and improves hematologic response in cancer patients. However, results on overall survival are inconclusive, suggesting erythropoietin should not be used to increase survival outside clinical trials.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 5, 2005
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.

Once-a-month injectable medication helps treat alcohol dependence

A new long-acting injectable naltrexone formulation has been shown to reduce heavy drinking by 25% and is well-tolerated, indicating a potential improvement in intervention strategies for alcohol dependence. The study featured one of the largest samples ever treated with a medication for alcohol dependence.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateApr 5, 2005

ALLHAT study findings for racial sub-groups show diuretics work better for high blood pressure

The ALLHAT study found that diuretics are superior to calcium channel blockers and ACE inhibitors in lowering blood pressure and preventing heart failure. Diuretics were also more effective in reducing high blood pressure and stroke in black patients, supporting the use of diuretics as first-line therapy for high blood pressure

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalJAMA·DateApr 5, 2005

Swift mission nabs its first distance measurement to star explosion

The NASA-led Swift mission has successfully measured the distances to two gamma-ray bursts, both originating from over 9 billion light years away. These direct distance measurements, achieved with Swift's Ultraviolet/OpticalTelescope (UVOT), represent a major milestone for the mission since its launch in 2004.

SourcePenn State·DateApr 5, 2005

Study finds no association between diet and pancreatic cancer among men and women

A Harvard School of Public Health study analyzed dietary habits and found no strong association between western or prudent diets and pancreatic cancer risk. Participants who adhered to the prudent diet had healthier lifestyle behaviors, suggesting individual dietary components may still play a role in risk.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 5, 2005

Pairs of Seagliders set endurance records

Two UW ocean-diving gliders, Seagliders, have set a new record by traveling across the Pacific Ocean. They were deployed in September and traveled over 1,860 miles in 191 days. The gliders' autonomous technology allows them to collect oceanographic measurements without propellers, setting a precedent for the longest range of any autono...

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateApr 5, 2005
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.

A probe, not an echo

The USC High-resolution Ultrasonic Transmission Tomography (HUTT) system offers superior 3D images of soft tissue, outperforming existing commercial X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI units. The technology uses multi-band analysis with sub-millimeter ultrasonic transducers to create detailed images with improved resolution and precision.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateApr 5, 2005

Pair of cancer genes found to drive both cell migration and division

The study found that PTEN and PI3K are required for cell migration and division, raising hopes for new treatments in cancer and inflammatory disorders. The researchers also discovered a novel mechanism by which cells regulate PIP3 levels to control cell migration.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateApr 5, 2005

For sardine and anchovy, El Niño events do not always have the same effects

A recent study challenges traditional theory that El Niño-La Niña cycles affect sardine and anchovy populations differently. Researchers found that sardines can thrive in warm waters during El Niño events, while anchovies adapt to cold conditions by extending their reproduction periods.

SourceInstitut de recherche pour le développement·JournalFish and Fisheries·DateApr 5, 2005
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Maternal iron deficiency disrupts mother/child interaction

A study conducted in South Africa found that mild iron deficiency in mothers can disrupt healthy mother/infant interactions. The research showed that mildly iron-deficient mothers were less sensitive to their baby's cues and appeared bored or distant more frequently, leading to changes in child behavior.

SourcePenn State·DateApr 5, 2005

NASA study finds Earth's auroras are not mirror images

Scientists found that auroral ovals in the northern and southern hemispheres do not form mirror images, contrary to previous thought. The study suggests that the tilt of the Earth's magnetic field towards the Sun and conditions in the solar wind play a crucial role in shaping the auroras.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 5, 2005

Young scientists awarded for achievements in cancer research

Nineteen undergraduate students have been awarded the AACR-Thomas J. Bardos Science Education Awards for their outstanding contributions to cancer research. The recipients will receive financial support to attend two consecutive Annual Meetings, providing them with a platform to network and learn from leading scientists.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateApr 5, 2005
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.

Other highlights in the April 6 JNCI

A new study found that altering food schedules and light/dark exposure in mice modified the expression of circadian clock genes and genes involved in carcinogenesis and tumor progression. The authors conclude that the altered light/dark or feeding schedules may slow tumor growth in chronic jet-lagged mice.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 5, 2005

Mystery on the Hudson

The Hudson River has seen a doubling of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in the past 15 years, with possible causes including changes in river materials and bacterial metabolism. This increase may be linked to nitrogen deposition, leading to eutrophication-driven problems such as hypoxia.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateApr 5, 2005

Key regulator of bone cells linked to osteoporosis

Researchers at Yale University identified IRAK-M as a key regulator of bone cells, finding that its presence prevents bone loss and its absence leads to severe osteoporosis in mice. The study suggests IRAK-M could be a new target for treating or preventing osteoporosis.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateApr 5, 2005
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.

Golf-related head injuries in children increasing along with sport's popularity

A study published in the Journal of Neurosurgery found that golf-related head injuries in children increased by 15% between 1996 and 2002. The majority of these injuries occurred outside golf courses, highlighting the need for cautionary guidelines and safety training programs to prevent accidents.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Neurosurgery·DateApr 5, 2005

Radar tracking reveals that butterflies follow decisive flight paths

Researchers used harmonic radar to track butterflies' flight patterns, finding they follow decisive routes for feeding and orientation. The study aims to understand how butterflies navigate fragmented landscapes and maintain sustainable populations.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society of London·DateApr 5, 2005
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.

Researchers test new therapy for advanced melanoma

Researchers test a new therapy for advanced melanoma, delivering a DNA plasmid through electroporation to stimulate the immune system. The results show high success in curing mice and preventing tumor regrowth.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·DateApr 5, 2005

NSF renews Cornell's Arecibo contract

The National Science Board has awarded Cornell University a $70 million contract to manage the Arecibo Observatory until March 31, 2010. This renewal will enable further scientific research capabilities at the observatory, with plans to develop new instruments and expand user access.

SourceCornell University·DateApr 5, 2005

PNAS highlights for the week of April 4 - 8

Archaeological findings reveal extensive ancient Maya salt workshops beyond royal control, while researchers investigate the role of Toll-like receptor 4 in inducing neuropathic pain. Atmospheric pollution is linked to wheat disease prevalence, and microarray technology helps diagnose skin cancer stages. Serotonin levels may regulate e...

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 5, 2005

Exercise, stress management show physiological benefits for heart patients

A randomized trial found that exercise and stress management training improved physiological markers of cardiovascular health, including blood flow to the heart and vascular endothelial function. These non-pharmaceutical approaches also showed promise in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, and improving baroreflex sensitivity.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateApr 5, 2005
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.

Metabolic side effects of antipsychotics are known, but rarely monitored

Researchers found that nearly all psychiatrists consider metabolic side effects serious or very serious, but baseline data and regular checks are often neglected. The study highlights the need for clinicians to change their practice to reflect this concern and provide better care for patients with schizophrenia.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateApr 5, 2005

Study shows that a kidney transplant can reverse heart failure

A University of Maryland study found that more than 86% of dialysis patients with severe heart failure experienced improved cardiac function after a kidney transplant. The study, which followed 103 patients between 1998 and 2002, suggests that a timely transplant can significantly improve heart health for these patients.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateApr 5, 2005

Ebola virus: from wildlife to dogs

Researchers found that 12.9% of wild chimpanzees carry Ebola virus antibodies, indicating regular contact with the animal reservoir and non-fatal infections. Dogs also carry the virus, with high antibody prevalence near epidemic foci, suggesting they could become a potential source of infection for humans.

SourceInstitut de recherche pour le développement·JournalEmerging Infectious Diseases·DateApr 5, 2005

Onion compound may help fight osteoporosis

Researchers found that a peptide called GPCS significantly inhibited bone mineral loss in isolated bone cells from newborn rats. Additional studies are needed to determine the mechanism of action and effectiveness of GPCS on human bone health.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateApr 5, 2005
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.

Purdue engineers use 'shaped' laser pulses in 'ultra-wideband' research

Researchers create laser pulses with specific shapes to produce signals with higher frequencies, enhancing image resolution and accuracy in detecting underground objects. The technique allows for precise control over radio frequencies, improving ultra-wideband communication systems.

SourcePurdue University·JournalIEEE Microwave and Wireless Components Letters·DateApr 5, 2005

Differential heart-attack risks among blacks, whites remain mystery

A new study from Rice University found no independent relationship between Lp(a) levels and coronary calcium in either whites or African-Americans, suggesting an unknown mechanism may be at work. The study used a large multiethnic dataset of Dallas County residents to examine the link between Lp(a) and heart-attack risk.

SourceRice University·DateApr 5, 2005

VCU research shows Viagra prevents anti-cancer drug induced heart damage

Researchers at VCU demonstrated that administering Viagra before an anti-cancer drug like doxorubicin can prevent heart damage and dilated cardiomyopathy in a mouse model. The study suggests that Viagra may be used to reduce the incidence of DOX cardiomyopathy in patients receiving chemotherapy.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·DateApr 5, 2005
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.

Emory scientist finds different paths lead to similar cognitive abilities

Research by Marino and colleagues reveals that dolphins and primates share similar cognitive abilities despite their distinct brain development patterns. The study, which spans 47 million years, uses magnetic resonance imaging and fossil records to compare the encephalization of cetaceans and humans.

SourceEmory University Health Sciences Center·DateApr 5, 2005

Genetic testing could bolster radiotherapy's effectiveness against cancer

Researchers have found a trio of proteins that protect tumor cells from destruction by radiotherapy, and a deeper understanding of their relationship could lead to more effective treatment. Genetic testing could help doctors identify the most effective treatment method for each patient's unique cancer tissue.

SourcePurdue University·JournalThe Journal of Biochemistry·DateApr 5, 2005

Antioxidant may have adverse effects in head and neck cancer patients

A multicenter trial found that alpha-tocopherol supplementation increased the rate of developing a second primary cancer during treatment but reduced the risk after treatment ended. After 8 years, the proportion of participants free of a second primary cancer was similar in both groups.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 5, 2005
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

West Africa: meningitis epidemics driven by the wind

Research links seasonal climate variations to meningitis outbreaks in Sahelo-Sudanian Africa. The study suggests that Harmattan winds drive the transmission of meningococcus bacteria, leading to epidemic cycles.

SourceInstitut de recherche pour le développement·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 5, 2005