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Science News Archive April 2005


Page 7 of 14

Joining hands to solve a DNA replication problem

Fanning and Chazin found structural and biochemical evidence for the mechanism of ssDNA break free from its binding protein to allow repair or replication. The researchers developed a working model to answer how RPA gets dislodged, allowing enzymes access to DNA for processing.

Watching microglia at work

Microglial cells are highly dynamic, constantly sampling their environment and interacting with neurons. In response to cerebral hemorrhage, microglial cells rapidly rush to the injured site, shielding it and decomposing damaged tissue.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New EMBO/NPG journal - A first in systems biology publishing

Molecular Systems Biology is a new journal that publishes papers on complex biological systems using molecular components and their interactions. The journal features innovative technology for formal descriptions of biological systems and sharing of data in widely-used XML-based formats.

New isotope gives a glimpse of the origins of precious metals

Researchers at Michigan State University recreated a rare isotope of nickel called Ni-78, which existed briefly in the chain of events that formed elements. This breakthrough reveals that Ni-78 decays up to three times quicker than expected, changing models of element formation before Earth's creation.

A kiss that binds

Researchers identify FMRP RNA ligands containing 'kissing complex' motifs, redirecting search for disease targets. The study also reveals a crucial link between FMRP, mRNA translation regulation and neurologic dysfunction in Fragile X syndrome.

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.

Highlights from the April issue of Ecology

Researchers found that Brown-headed cowbirds can affect the sex of host offspring, while commercial fishing led to changes in open-ocean fish communities. Additionally, a study on plant defense theory revealed that outbred plants are more resistant to certain insect herbivores.

Scientists model physics of stellar burning

Researchers have developed a new model to predict the physics of stellar burning, particularly in stars like V4334 Sgr that undergo brief rebirths. The model predicts that V4334 Sgr will become much hotter and then slowly repeat the stellar rebirth cycle, returning to its current temperature in roughly two hundred years.

Study uncovers bacteria's worst enemy

Researchers found that bacteria's worst enemy in nuclear waste sites may be toxic metals, contradicting conventional wisdom. Actinides are less toxic than other metals, suggesting bioremediation using naturally occurring bacteria can still be effective.

Rice, NC State win NAS/Keck Futures funding

Barron and Monteiro-Riviere's project explores fullerene interactions with skin cells, aiming to develop new nano-biohybrid materials. The researchers will investigate physiochemical properties of fullerenes to predict uptake and activity.

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.

Research urgently needed to treat blood clots in children

A review of treatments for pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) in children reveals an acute need for more research into diagnosing the condition. The study found that only four per cent of blood clots in children presented without any risk factors, highlighting the importance of recognizing symptoms.

The biggest family tree ever

The Genographic Project is a five-year global study of human migratory history, analyzing genetic samples from indigenous peoples and public participants. Researchers will use markers encoded into DNA to trace lineages, unveiling new aspects of family trees that persist through genes.

American Thoracic Society Journal news tips for April 2005 (second issue)

A study found that family conferences in ICUs missed opportunities to discuss withholding or withdrawing life-sustaining therapy due to clinicians' failure to listen and respond appropriately. The missed opportunities fell into three categories: listening, acknowledging emotions, and addressing medical ethics principles.

Lance Armstrong Foundation supports UHC research

The Lance Armstrong Foundation is supporting a University Hospitals of Cleveland research project exploring the impact of exercise and dietary counseling on obese endometrial cancer patients. Dr. von Gruenigen's study aims to improve quality of life for this high-risk group, which accounts for over 40,000 cases annually in the US.

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.

JCI table of contents May 1, 2005

Research reveals that nitrite is a potent inhibitor of ischemia/reperfusion injury in the liver and heart, limiting cell death and preserving organ function. Additionally, adipocyte-derived collagen VI promotes early tumor growth in breast cancer, while EBV proteins drive immune responses in multiple sclerosis.

Of mice and men's (and women's) contraceptives

A study on the MSY2 protein found that its absence in mice leads to male and female infertility. The researchers aim to develop new non-hormonal contraceptives using Contrin, a human equivalent of MSY2. This discovery holds promise for targeted fertility treatments and could lead to innovative contraceptive options.

$3.5 million grant funds new national center at the University of Oregon

The center aims to provide a national overview of how young adults with disabilities fare after leaving school, collecting and interpreting data to inform program improvements. The grant partners with OSEP, National Dropout Prevention Center, and other organizations to support states in implementing best practices.

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.

Purdue miniature cooling device will have military, computer uses

Mechanical engineers at Purdue University have created micro-channel heat sinks that can cool electronic components, enabling faster performance and better functionality. The devices are being developed to address the growing need for efficient cooling in advanced laser systems, microwave radar, and future computers.

Physicists demonstrate quantum mechanical nature of heat flow

Researchers at Northwestern University show that a magnetic field can be used to increase or decrease the flow of heat through an Andreev interferometer. The findings, published in Physical Review Letters, demonstrate the quantum mechanical nature of heat flow and its relationship with electron charge.

Obesity linked to risk of severe headaches

Chronic daily headaches are more prevalent in obese and morbidly obese people than those with normal body weight, the study found. Obese individuals reported severe pain and missed more work days due to headaches.

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.

Drug may help MS patients with laughing, crying spells

A new MS drug, AVP-923, has shown significant improvement in reducing pseudobulbar affect episodes, with 84% of patients reporting betterment compared to 49% on placebo. The treatment also led to overall improvements in quality of life and reduction in pain.

AGU Journal highlights - 14 April 2005

Researchers reassess Martian landslides using recent images and propose alternative gravity-driven explanation. Ocean color tracking reveals 50-year dataset for phytoplankton abundance estimation. Aerosol concentrations in China's atmosphere reduce daily surface solar radiation since 1961, according to Geophysical Research Letters papers.

'The Breda three': Decision-taking postponed by guilt

Hinke Piersma's research explores the interaction between political decision-making and public debate regarding 'the Breda three', four prisoners who became two in 1979. The discussion increasingly focused on integrity, as the Dutch population was criticized for failing to protect Jewish compatriots during WWII.

Master gene controls healing of 'skin' in fruit flies and mammals

A study published in Science identifies the master gene grainyhead as essential for wound repair in both fruit flies and mice. The researchers found that grainyhead is required to activate genes involved in cuticle repair, which then regenerate injured patches of skin.

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Independent voice rises to help consumers navigate health care

A network of non-profit groups in California is providing critical assistance to low-income consumers struggling with insurance problems, resolving 62% of issues. The Health Consumer Alliance helps consumers choose coverage, navigate public programs, and reduces costs, morbidity, and litigation

Cost-effectiveness of drugs may vary across borders

A new study assesses the cost-effectiveness of pharmaceuticals in different countries, highlighting the importance of considering location-specific factors. The findings emphasize that economic evaluations are not transferable across borders, requiring repeated studies to determine cost-effectiveness.

Nitrite says NO to ischemia/reperfusion injury

Researchers found that nitrite therapy reduces cell death and preserves organ function in mouse models of I/R injury. Nitrite may serve as a therapeutic treatment for I/R disease, particularly in preventing organ dysfunction following surgery or transplantation.

Pessimism and depression increase dementia risk

A study by Mayo Clinic investigators found that pessimism and depression are associated with a higher risk of dementia. The research, which analyzed data from over 3,500 individuals, suggests that personality traits may play a role in the development of cognitive impairment 30-40 years later.

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Bright arctic light can lead to migraine

A recent study conducted in Norway found that bright Arctic light can trigger migraines in women with aura. The research revealed that nearly half of those with migraine with aura experienced more frequent attacks during the summer light season than during the polar winter season.

Special physical therapy technique successful for chronic back pain

A new physical therapy technique, Souchard's global postural re-education, has shown significant improvement in chronic back pain patients. The method involves stretching and strengthening of para-spinal muscles to correct posture and decompress the spinal canal, resulting in pain relief for 92% of participants.

Toxic flame retardant accumulates in dolphins

Researchers discovered that the alpha isomer of toxic flame retardant HBCD accumulates in dolphin blubber due to its inability to be metabolized by enzymes. The beta and gamma isomers are broken down by cytochrome P450, leading to their exclusion from fat-rich tissues.

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 treatment 'roadmap' improves odds for unusual brain aneurysm

Researchers developed a classification system to treat thrombotic aneurysms, finding that one-third can be treated surgically with conventional clipping. The study also discovered that bypass and occlusion procedures yield more favorable results for unclippable aneurysms.

Fat may affect electrical impulses in brain, heart

Researchers found that palmitate, a saturated fatty acid, can attach to proteins regulating bioelectricity in cells. This attachment affects the transmission of electrical impulses in nerve and heart cells, with potential health implications.

New treatment for hereditary breast cancer

Researchers have discovered a new treatment that uses a chemical to prevent PARP repair, making recombination essential for cancer cell growth. This approach shows promise as a potential breakthrough for women with hereditary breast cancer.

Liverpool scientist discovers new layer of the Earth

Dr Christine Thomas has discovered a previously undetected seismic layer near the Earth's core-mantle boundary, allowing researchers to measure internal temperatures and study whole mantle convection. The new layer enables scientists to examine the fate of subducted lithosphere and hot material rising from the core-mantle boundary.

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.

A big fat contribution to breast tumor growth

Researchers found that collagen VI from adipocytes stimulates the proliferation and survival of malignant cells in breast tumors. The study suggests a potential link between increased adiposity and breast cancer risk, highlighting the role of extracellular matrix proteins in tumor behavior.

Northwestern Memorial researchers release study on smart-pump technology

A Northwestern Memorial study finds that smart pump technology alone has limited potential to improve patient safety, but integrating it with EHRs and other technologies can significantly reduce errors. The hospital is developing a robust two-way communication system to verify physician orders in real-time.

Medical journal editors condemn ghostwriting

A recent editorial in the Journal of General Internal Medicine condemns the practice of ghostwriting in medical journals, citing issues with authorship and financial relationships. The authors highlight the need for transparency and accountability in academic publishing to maintain public trust.

Researchers find new giant amphibian fossils in Africa

Researchers have discovered two new species of giant amphibians in Africa, which are similar to crocodiles in shape. The findings suggest that climate change over 250 million years ago had a dramatic effect on species survival and evolution.

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Fatter pigs due to cooling

Pigs can become lethargic in high temperatures, leading to poor growth rates. Providing extra cooling measures such as water baths or misting systems can help reduce heat stress and increase feed intake.

Umeå researchers have mapped the dams of the world

A global study reveals that 172 of the world's largest rivers are regulated by dams, affecting ecosystems globally. The highest impacted regions include temperate forests and savannahs, while Australia has the largest proportion of free-flowing rivers.

Ibuprofen may lower risk of Parkinson's disease

A recent study published by the American Academy of Neurology suggests that long-term use of ibuprofen may lower the risk of developing Parkinson's disease. The research found a 35% lower risk among ibuprofen users compared to non-users, with risks decreasing depending on weekly dosage.

The impact of its environment on a quantum computer

Researchers at University College London have discovered how a well-specified bath affects the qubits in a crystal, which behaves as a primitive quantum computer. The study suggests that the effect can be controlled by radio waves and temperature of the bath, paving the way for stable quantum computing.

Evidence of short-term changes in sea level found in coral record

Researchers have discovered evidence of large fluctuations in sea levels over thousands of years, not just during glacial periods, using a new method of dating corals. This finding suggests that sea levels may be more variable than previously thought, with changes occurring on shorter time scales.

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Golfers' yips may be movement disorder

A study of 20 male golfers with and without the yips found that those with yips had abnormal muscle activity in their forearms before impact. Golfers with yips were also older and had higher handicaps than those without yips, who had fewer errors and made more putts.

Hormone aids recovery in rats with hemorrhagic stroke

A new study found that erythropoietin reduced inflammation and cell death, improving functional recovery after hemorrhagic stroke in rats. The treatment also showed decreases in brain water content and increases in behavioral recovery.

Vitamin E loss through smoking increases health risks

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that smoking depletes vitamin E levels 13% faster than non-smokers, increasing health risks. The research also reveals an interactive relationship between vitamins C and E, highlighting the importance of adequate levels of both antioxidants to prevent disease.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Execution by lethal injection is not humane or painless suggests study

A recent study by Leonidas Koniaris and colleagues found that lethal injection methods in the US are often inadequate, leading to unnecessary suffering. The study analysed data from executions in Texas and Virginia, as well as autopsy toxicology reports, revealing low concentrations of thiopental in the blood of executed inmates.

Women not given same tests for stroke

A recent study found that women with ischemic stroke are less likely to receive diagnostic tests than men, despite having worse outcomes. Sixty-two percent of all deaths from stroke in the US occur in women, highlighting a need for increased access to tests and education.