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Science News for August 1, 2005


Home videos suggest regression occurs in some autistic children

Researchers analyzed home videotapes of 56 children to find that infants with autism who experience regression show more frequent word use and babble than normal infants at 12 months. Early onset ASD infants display the least frequency of language development.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateAug 1, 2005

Human cerebellum and cortex age in very different ways

The human cerebellum and cortex age at vastly different rates, with the cortex showing pronounced and consistent changes, while the cerebellum experiences smaller and less coordinated changes. This study, published in PLoS Biology, reveals that the functions of brain regions influence how they age.

SourceHarvard University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 1, 2005

New analysis of pottery stirs Olmec trade controversy

A new study suggests that the Olmec civilization imported pottery from other cultures, contradicting previous claims that it was the sole source. The findings use petrography to identify minerals in pottery fragments and reveal reciprocal trade between highland and lowland centers.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 1, 2005
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Severely mentally ill more likely victims than perpetrators of violence

Research suggests that severely mentally ill individuals are disproportionately victimized by crime, with a prevalence rate six to 23 times greater than the general population. The study's findings highlight the need for improved mental health treatment and support services to reduce revictimization.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateAug 1, 2005

Highlights of August 2005 Journal of the American Dietetic Association

According to a survey of 228 Pennsylvania high schools, bottled water and fruit juice are widely available in vending machines, while the top-selling a la carte items include hamburgers, pizza, and sandwiches. The survey also found that nearly 60% of schools sell carbonated beverages through vending machines.

SourceAmerican Dietetic Association·JournalJournal of the American Dietetic Association·DateAug 1, 2005

Beach pollution is worst during new and full moon

Researchers found that levels of enterococci bacteria were higher at beaches during full and new moon phases, increasing the risk of illness. The study suggests using tidal patterns as a tool for assessing water quality and identifying potential sources of pollution.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 1, 2005

Surgery gives fresh start to patients with thickened hearts

A new study suggests that surgical myectomy can significantly improve symptoms in patients with severe obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), resulting in comparable life expectancies to those who never had the condition. By correcting blood flow obstructions, surgery offers a better quality of life for these younger patients.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateAug 1, 2005
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Gene expression in the aging brain

The study found age-related changes in gene expression in the human brain's cortex, but not in non-brain tissues. The results support a theory that DNA damage and protein degradation contribute to aging, with more metabolically active tissues showing greater gene activity reduction.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 1, 2005

Penn researchers discover key to how SARS virus infects cells

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have found that inhibitors of cellular enzyme cathepsin L prevent the SARS virus from entering target cells. This breakthrough discovery could lead to the development of new therapeutics against the SARS virus.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 1, 2005

Amphetamine-related drugs ameliorate symptoms of Parkinson's

Researchers have found that amphetamine-related drugs, such as MDMA, can effectively alleviate symptoms of Parkinson's disease in a mouse model. By eliminating dopamine recycling and production, these drugs bypass the usual limitations of L-DOPA treatment, offering new hope for patients with the debilitating condition.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 1, 2005

Building a better mouse model of lung cancer: FHIT counts

Scientists at Ohio State University created a mouse model of lung cancer that loses the FHIT gene's protein early in development, leading to larger and more numerous tumors. The study suggests that even low levels of the protein might prevent lung cancer.

SourceOhio State University·JournalCancer Research·DateAug 1, 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.

'Smart' nanoprobes light up disease

Researchers at Rice University developed a new nanoprobe that uses quantum dots to visualize proteolytic activity in vivo, solving the problem of distinguishing between disease signals and background noise. The probes are activated by enzymes associated with specific diseases, allowing for early detection and monitoring.

SourceRice University·JournalBiochemical and Biophysical Research Communications·DateAug 1, 2005

Behavioural ecologists elucidated how peahens choose their mates, and why

A new study found that females prefer males with higher ocelli density but also those with shorter tails, suggesting they value the visual perception of a dense cluster. This preference is driven by both ocelli density and male displaying activity, providing peahens with information about male health.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalEthology·DateAug 1, 2005

Waist size is associated with the metabolic syndrome in children

A new study has established a significant correlation between waist circumference and components of the metabolic syndrome, including elevated blood pressure, insulin resistance, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, in children. The research found that abdominal obesity, as measured by waist circumference, is an independent...

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateAug 1, 2005

Sensor could detect concealed weapons without X-rays

The sensor uses ambient radiation to detect objects based on how brightly they reflect natural radiation. Once developed, it could be used for luggage scanning and aircraft runway detection during bad weather.

SourceOhio State University·JournalIEEE Electron Device Letters·DateAug 1, 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.

Omega-6 fatty acids cause prostate tumor cell growth in culture

Researchers found that omega-6 fatty acids can stimulate cell growth in prostate cancer cells by activating the production of cPLA2 and COX2 enzymes. A diet high in omega-6 fatty acids may contribute to increased risk of prostate cancer, while a new class of drugs targeting cPLA2 could offer a safer alternative to existing treatments.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalCarcinogenesis·DateAug 1, 2005

Individuals with severe mental illness at high risk to be victims of crime

A study by Linda Teplin et al found that over one quarter of individuals with severe mental illness were victims of violent crime in the past year, nearly 17% for completed violence. The authors recommend systematic screening and monitoring, skill-based prevention programs, and policy-level changes to address this public health problem.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateAug 1, 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.

Girls who were victims of violence more likely to commit violent acts

A recent study found that adolescent girls who experienced violence are more likely to perpetrate violent acts, with the highest risk at age 14. The research also suggests that improving community safety can help reduce violent behavior among these girls.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateAug 1, 2005

Scientists characterize proteome of human cornea

Researchers have identified 141 distinct proteins in the healthy human cornea, including classical blood proteins and anti-angiogenic factors. This comprehensive protein study may lead to future therapeutics for various corneal disorders, improving clinical classifications and potentially generating artificial corneas for transplantation.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalMolecular & Cellular Proteomics·DateAug 1, 2005

Annals of Internal Medicine, tip sheet, August 2, 2005

A new analysis of existing studies reveals that individuals with overweight or obesity are at a higher risk of experiencing GERD symptoms, erosive esophagitis, and esophageal cancer. In contrast, researchers found no significant difference in mortality rates between patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis for end-stage ...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateAug 1, 2005

JCI Table of contents August 1, 2005

Researchers investigate Akt1's impact on cardiac function, finding it can enhance cardiac function after heart failure but also contribute to maladaptive effects. A new gene therapy approach successfully treats severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) in mice, offering promising implications for its treatment.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 1, 2005

American Thoracic Society Journal news tips for August 2005 (first issue)

Researchers found a significant risk factor for early respiratory failure following stem cell transplantation: patients with low lung function test scores prior to treatment. The study analyzed 2,852 patients who received allogeneic transplants between 1990 and 2001.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 1, 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.

New factor implicated in allergy and asthma attacks

Researchers at UTMB discovered that oxidative stress from pollen is as important as antigen exposure in triggering severe respiratory inflammation. Antioxidant substances may help forestall allergy or asthma attacks, and longer-lived antioxidants could be effective in treatment and prevention.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 1, 2005

Pancreatic cancer risk higher in newly diagnosed diabetes patients 50 and older

Researchers found that older patients with newly diagnosed diabetes are considered a high-risk group for developing pancreatic cancer. The study, conducted by the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, included 2,122 patients aged 50 and older who were diagnosed with diabetes between 1950 and 1995.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateAug 1, 2005

Via Internet, Australian-based researchers perform real-time cell surgery in California

Using RoboLase, Australian scientists successfully performed sub-cellular surgery on a laser microscope system in California, demonstrating the potential for remote medical procedures. The technology enabled researchers to collaborate without traveling to a single laboratory site, paving the way for increased global scientific collabor...

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalMicroscopy Research and Technique·DateAug 1, 2005

Are there national patterns of teaching?

The TIMSS 1999 Video Study found that while countries exhibit unique teaching patterns, there is also significant global convergence in classroom methods. This suggests that teachers from different countries can recognize familiar practices and be surprised by their differences.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalComparative Education Review·DateAug 1, 2005
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.

Insight into JAK/STAT

The JAK/STAT signaling pathway is a crucial regulator of cell growth and survival in various organisms. Research at the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory has shed light on the molecular mechanisms underlying this pathway.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateAug 1, 2005

New anti-blood-thinning drug not as safe as protamine

Researchers halt Phase IIB/IIIA clinical trial of heparinase I due to higher incidences of negative side effects, including bleeding and infections. The study's lead author emphasizes the need for further research to develop an effective alternative to protamine.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalAnesthesiology·DateAug 1, 2005
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.

Cracking the perception code

Researchers discovered that monkeys perceive vibration frequency by analyzing neuronal firing patterns, particularly in the first 250 milliseconds. The findings suggest a complex process where attention to the initial response dominates perception, with subsequent firings becoming less significant.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateAug 1, 2005

Women missing out in heart treatment – more needed in clinical trials

Key findings highlight the importance of including women in clinical trials due to differences in response to drug therapy, such as higher levels of adverse reactions and varying mortality rates. This lack of data affects treatment strategies, with many drugs prescribed to women adapted from studies conducted mainly in men.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateAug 1, 2005

Gragoudas to receive ARVO's Weisenfeld Award

Dr. Gragoudas is being recognized for his groundbreaking work on protein beam irradiation and photodynamic therapy for intraocular melanoma and neovascular age-related macular degeneration. He has made significant contributions to the clinical practice of ophthalmology, particularly in the study of retinal vascular diseases.

SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·DateAug 1, 2005
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.

Amphetamines reverse Parkinson's disease symptoms in mice

Researchers discover that amphetamines can alter movement independently of dopamine, opening up new directions in the search for anti-Parkinsonian drugs. The findings suggest that drugs with similar chemical attributes might offer useful alternatives to current therapies.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 1, 2005

3 papers present fresh paths to ponder Akt1 in the heart

Recent studies using transgenic mice have shown that overactive Akt1 can lead to cardiac dysfunction and hypertrophy. In contrast, Akt1 is critical for adaptive angiogenesis in the heart after ischemia. The research highlights the importance of understanding Akt1's role in regulating cardiovascular function.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 1, 2005

A bug's life: Exceptional genomic stability yet rapid protein evolution in a carpenter ant mutualist

A recent study reveals that symbiotic bacteria, such as Blochmannia, exhibit exceptional genomic stability despite rapid protein evolution. Genome sequencing of the black carpenter ant mutualist revealed that all shared genes were completely conserved in both genomes, indicating a striking lack of genetic change over millions of years.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateAug 1, 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.

Common C-section method leads to unnecessary scars, Stanford study finds

A Stanford study found that surgically closing a woman's peritoneum after a C-section significantly reduces the risk of abdominal adhesions. The research suggests that this long-held practice may not be necessary and could even offer benefits in terms of reducing post-operative pain.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateAug 1, 2005

Researcher uncovers details of how cancer spreads

A study published in Developmental Cell reveals that connective tissue holding a cancer cell in place degrades, allowing it to spread to other parts of the body. The researchers identified a specific pathway critical for cancer cell activity, which could lead to more effective drug therapies with reduced side effects.

SourceCornell University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateAug 1, 2005

Mayo Clinic collaboration invents 'virus in stealth' to help kill cancer cells

Researchers have developed a way to engineer an alternative outer covering for the measles virus, allowing it to recognize and target only cancerous cells. The 'virus in stealth' approach uses pieces from an animal virus that cannot infect humans to disguise the measles virus, enabling it to evade the immune system and reach tumors.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of Virology·DateAug 1, 2005

Scientists develop nanotech-laser treatment that kills cancer cells without harming healthy tissue

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a nanotech-laser treatment that uses carbon nanotubes to selectively kill cancer cells, bypassing normal body tissue. The technique involves coating the nanotubes with folate molecules to target diseased cells, and shining near-infrared light on them to induce heat and destruction.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 1, 2005
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Older Americans with new-onset diabetes have high risk of pancreatic cancer

A new study has identified older Americans with new-onset diabetes as a high-risk group for pancreatic cancer. The research found that patients with type 2 diabetes are at a significantly higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer compared to those without the condition, highlighting the need for early detection and screening.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateAug 1, 2005

BRCA1 tumor suppression nullified by cyclin D1 at the estrogen receptor

Scientists discover that cyclin D1, overproduced in half of all breast cancers, can disrupt BRCA1's normal role as a cancer inhibitor. Cyclin D1 interferes with BRCA1 function by occupying the same binding site on estrogen receptor alpha, negating its tumor suppressor role.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateAug 1, 2005
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.

Wolves' top-down effect

The study found that wolf exclusion led to a 10-fold increase in elk populations, resulting in decreased beaver lodge construction and disappearance of songbirds dependent on willow habitat. The findings support the role of large predators in conservation and restoration strategies.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcology·DateAug 1, 2005

New amphibian species result from exploration, not from rule changes

Researchers have identified new amphibian species through genetic analysis and bioacoustic tools, contrary to the assumption that taxonomic inflation is driving species discoveries. This finding underscores the importance of continued exploration and conservation efforts in this endangered vertebrate group.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateAug 1, 2005

Many body-conscious teens use supplements to improve physique

A study of adolescents aged 12-18 found that body image concerns and media influence play a significant role in supplement use. Nearly 20% of teens reported using supplements to improve muscle mass or definition, with creatine and protein powders being the most commonly used products.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateAug 1, 2005

Power of suggestion may help dieters avoid specific foods

Researcher Elizabeth Loftus found that people can be led to believe they got sick as children from specific unhealthy foods, resulting in reduced appeal as adults. Participants showed a similar tendency to avoid the food after believing they had a negative experience.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 1, 2005

Babies born at night have greater risk of death, study finds

A recent study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that babies born at night have a 12-16% increase in neonatal mortality, accounting for almost 10% of all neonatal deaths in California. This increased risk is attributed to various factors, including potential complications during delivery and reduced access to healthcare services.

SourceMarch of Dimes Foundation·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateAug 1, 2005
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.