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Science News Archive January 2005


Page 1 of 11

Controversial Atkins Diet may be beneficial for people with epilepsy

A review of nutritional modalities for treating epilepsy suggests that diets high in fat and polyunsaturated fatty acids may be effective in controlling seizures. The Atkins diet has shown promise as an easier-to-follow alternative to the ketogenic diet, although its success depends on implementation.

Spectroscopy for the real world

Scientists developed a high-pressure photoelectron spectroscopy system to study chemical underpinnings of everyday catalytic, biological, and ecological phenomena. They found that negatively charged ions concentrate at the surface of salt grains as they dissolve in water.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Background 'DWI' checks effective

A Johns Hopkins Medicine study found that pilots with a DWI history have a 43% higher crash risk than their counterparts without one. The researchers analyzed over 300,000 pilots and tracked their flying records, concluding that background checks can effectively predict and prevent crashes.

Researchers find new genes necessary to make embryo

Researchers at New York University have discovered over 150 additional genes required to make an embryo, bringing the total estimated number of genes needed to around 2,600. The study also sheds light on how these genes work in humans and provides clues for understanding human diseases.

US government list of cancer-causing agents grows

The report lists 58 substances as 'known human carcinogens' due to evidence from human studies, including HBV, HCV, and HPV. Eleven new substances have been added to the list of 'reasonably anticipated human carcinogens', including naphthalene, MeIQx, and lead.

A bug's life: aging and death inE. coli

A study published in PLOS Biology found that E. coli bacteria, which reproduce symmetrically, have a reduced growth rate, decreased offspring formation, and increased risk of dying compared to cells inheriting new poles.

Study proves catheter ablation safe for patients

A study published in Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology journal confirms catheter ablation is safe for patients, with no significant damage to cardiac nerves. The procedure is now a standard therapy for various arrhythmias, including SVT, atrial fibrillation, and AV nodal re-entrant tachycardia.

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.

Chemists create 'Superbowl' molecule; May lead to better health

Chemists in Australia have created a molecule called the 'superbowl' that can carry large molecules of medicinal value, including painkillers and chemotherapy drugs, to specific areas of the body. The molecule shows promise for precision drug delivery and may one day improve medical treatments and save lives.

Rice genome approaches completion

A team of scientists has published a near-complete genome analysis of rice, revealing a whole-genome duplication event that may have played a role in the origin of grasses. The study provides important insights into the evolution of rice and its possible impact on human history.

Privacy rule cuts research recruitment by more than half

The new privacy rule has reduced biomedical research recruitment to an average of 2.5 to 5.7 women per week, significantly impacting the field's progress in understanding preeclampsia and its devastating effects on pregnant women. Dr. Ness calls for modifications to the rule itself to standardize institutions' interpretation.

Women, drinking to their health

A study published in the Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis found that moderate amounts of alcohol can reduce cardiovascular risk in women, particularly those who are postmenopausal. The research suggests that low to moderate wine consumption may have a favorable effect on cardiovascular events in this demographic.

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.

Screening for osteoporosis prevents hip fractures in older adults

A study of 3,107 older adults found that screening for osteoporosis using a bone density test reduced the incidence of hip fractures by 36% compared to usual medical care. The study provides new evidence for the effectiveness of osteoporosis screening in preventing fractures.

Drinking alcohol increases risk for cancer

A meta-analysis of 156 studies found that heavy alcohol drinking is strongly associated with an increased risk of primary liver cancer, breast cancer, large bowel cancer, and other related diseases. The risks are shown to increase with the amount of alcohol consumed, but no threshold below which no effect is evident.

New test is first step in early detection of Alzheimer's disease

Scientists at Northwestern University have developed a new diagnostic test for Alzheimer's disease using bio-bar-code amplification technology. The test can detect miniscule amounts of a toxic protein in human cerebrospinal fluid, which may be responsible for early neurological deterioration.

A gene's fist 'kiss' sets off that affair known as puberty

Researchers uncover key mechanisms behind puberty, revealing that a specific gene and protein interact to trigger hormone secretion. The study provides new insights into human development and may help prevent precocious or delayed puberty.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Bioartificial kidney under study at MCG

Researchers at MCG Medical Center are studying a bioartificial kidney that can mimic the functions of natural kidneys, reducing mortality rates in ICU patients. The device, developed by Dr. H. David Humes, uses billions of donor kidney cells to filter waste and regulate various bodily processes.

Discovery promises simpler therapy for sickle cell disease

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered that an inability of red blood cells to relax blood vessels through the release of nitric oxide is a major factor behind sickle cell disease symptoms. Restoring nitric oxide to blood cells may serve as a useful method for treating the disease.

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.

Stents and going with the flow

A Canadian Medical Association Journal article evaluates the economic impact of sirolimus-eluting stents, finding they are cost-effective in high-risk patients. However, their use is associated with a similar or higher cost per quality-adjusted life-year compared to other medical treatments.

New language points to foundations of human grammar

Researchers analyzed Al-Sayyid Bedouin Sign Language (ABSL), a community of 3,500 deaf and hearing people, revealing a distinct grammatical structure that establishes systematic relations among words. ABSL follows a Subject-Object-Verb order, differing from English and other languages in the region.

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.

Feb. 1, 2005, Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet

The American College of Physicians recommends one-time ultrasound examination for abdominal aortic aneurysm screening in men aged 65-75 who are smokers. New evidence suggests that large abdominal aneurysms may reduce deaths from ruptured aneurysms. Meanwhile, a study found that the COX-2 inhibitor rofecoxib increases heart attack risk ...

What does an airline traveler have in common with a glowing fish?

Researchers have created a new tool to investigate the components of the circadian clock in vertebrates using transgenic zebrafish that luminesce in sync with their periodicity. The study reveals that aspects of circadian rhythms develop in specific stages, rather than being hardwired into the embryo.

Gene with broad role also causes prevalent, inherited nerve disorder

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have identified a gene defect that causes Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a prevalent and inherited nerve disorder. The discovery provides new insights into the nervous system and may lead to the development of targeted therapies for this debilitating disease.

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.

Scientists close in on 'superbrakes' for cars

Researchers create a new mathematical model that explains the relationship between friction and motion, suggesting that traditional braking methods may not be the most effective. The findings could lead to improved road safety by optimizing brake performance.

Physicists discover temperature key to avalanche movement

Researchers have devised a thermometer that can measure granular temperature based on the degree of agitation of its component particles. The discovery could lead to better understanding of powders and particulate materials in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food processing, and construction.

New insight into regulation of blood stem cells

A new study found that the transcription factor c-Myb regulates hematopoiesis at multiple points, controlling HSC self-renewal and proliferation. This breakthrough has significant implications for developing compounds to regulate stem cell fate decisions, a potential game-changer for stem cell therapy.

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.

Wine drinkers live longer than beer guzzlers

Substances in wine have been shown to share the characteristics of ethanol, preventing blood clotting and providing cardio-protective effects. Additionally, wine has been found to reduce mortality from cancer compared to other alcoholic beverages, thanks to its antioxidant properties.

Oiled birds prompt study by UCSB experts

Scientists at UCSB study the relationship between recent severe storms and increased oil emissions from the Coal Oil Point seep field. Researchers estimate current oil emissions are many times pre-storm levels, with new areas of seepage appearing and gas driving the flow.

Northern women: Tough enough

A study of 25 northern British Columbia women reveals three key coping mechanisms: becoming hardy, making the best of the North and supplementing it. These strategies involve self-reliance, spiritual beliefs, outdoor activities and social support networks.

Nanoscale diagnostic sets sights on Alzheimer's

A new nanoscale diagnostic technique has been developed to detect possible traces of Alzheimer's disease in cerebrospinal fluid. The procedure uses magnetic and DNA particles to identify biomarkers, which could lead to early diagnosis and effective treatment if proven successful.

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.

Problems in the bedroom can indicate heart problems

Research suggests that erectile dysfunction (ED) is a significant public health concern associated with cardiovascular medicine. Early recognition of ED in high-risk populations can lead to early diagnosis of cardiovascular risk factors and subclinical vascular disease.

Scientists propose sweeping changes to naming of bird neurosystems

Researchers propose a new naming system for bird neurosystems, revealing similarities to mammalian brains. The revised nomenclature reflects recent discoveries in neural processing and behavior, highlighting the cognitive abilities of birds comparable to those of mammals.

Progesterone therapy could prevent thousands of preterm births

Researchers estimate that progesterone therapy could reduce the rate of recurrent preterm birth in the US by about 2%, preventing around 10,000 premature births annually. The study's findings are based on a clinical trial showing a significant reduction in preterm birth risk among women with a history of spontaneous preterm birth.

New non-hormonal hot flash treatment set for clinical trial

Researchers at the University at Buffalo are conducting a 12-week study to evaluate the effectiveness of an amino acid supplement in reducing hot flashes in postmenopausal women. The trial will compare the active treatment with a placebo, and results may offer an alternative to hormone replacement therapy.

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.

Optical tweezers prove Einstein right

Researchers have successfully measured the back-flow effect in Brownian motion, a phenomenon Einstein predicted but overlooked 100 years ago. The discovery uses optical tweezers technology to detect this effect, confirming a key aspect of Brownian motion theory.

Please, do disturb

Researchers found that chaos and noise are essential for maintaining marine ecosystems, allowing plankton blooms to flourish even in suboptimal conditions. By adding noise to a system, it can become synchronized and sustained, contrary to previous assumptions.

Scientists reveal cells' 'energy factories' linked to cancer

Researchers found that excessive build-up of succinic acid in mitochondria triggers a sequence of events leading to tumour growth. The study increases understanding of molecular basis of several types of cancer, crucial for developing new prevention, diagnosis and treatment methods.

Middle ear infections: Prescribe antibiotics or not?

A randomized controlled trial found that amoxicillin was more effective than placebo in treating middle ear infections in children, but showed no significant difference in adverse events or recurrence rates. The study suggests that antibiotics may be a useful treatment option for this common childhood illness.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Wisconsin scientists grow critical nerve cells

Researchers have successfully grown functional motor neurons from human embryonic stem cells in a lab, providing a critical breakthrough for treating diseases like ALS. The discovery challenges the long-held assumption that stem cell differentiation occurs in linear fashion.

More Britons live alone

A study of over 150,000 individuals in England and Wales found that the percentage of those living alone increased by 31% between 1971 and 2023, with men more prone to going solo after age 25. The trend is expected to continue, with younger generations increasingly choosing individual living.

Recognizing new aneurysm syndrome can save lives

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have discovered a new syndrome characterized by wide-set eyes, cleft palate, or split uvula, and aggressive swelling of the aorta. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent aortic rupture and save lives, with surgery often successful if performed promptly.

RFID chips in car keys and gas pump pay tags carry security risks

Researchers from Johns Hopkins University found that RFID microchips in car keys and wireless payment tags may be vulnerable to encryption cracking, allowing thieves to bypass auto theft prevention systems and charge unauthorized purchases. The study recommends implementing free metallic sheaths to cover devices when not in use.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Monkey 'pay-per-view' study could aid understanding of autism

A monkey study provides a controlled laboratory setting to explore how monkeys make social judgments, including dominance rankings and reproductive success. The findings suggest that the brain processes social information in a way similar to humans, with implications for understanding autism.

How many comparative genomes are enough?

A new mathematical model suggests that more genome comparisons are necessary to detect conserved DNA regions, especially for longer stretches. The model estimates that around 50-120 genomes are needed to reduce error rates from 1 in 100 to 1 in 10,000.

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.

Preschoolers not getting enough fiber

A study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that preschoolers who consumed more fiber had more nutrient-rich diets. Experts suggest increasing fiber consumption through whole-grain products and high-fiber cereals to support healthy growth and development.

Man and mouse share genome structures

Researchers analyzed chromatin structure in human chromosomes and found similar patterns in equivalent regions of the mouse genome, revealing new insights into regulatory functions and potential connections to cancer. This study advances our understanding of how genes are turned on and off, with implications for improving human health.