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Science News Archive January 2005 - Page 6


Page 6 of 11

Doctor report cards not always clear when comparing quality of care

A new study analyzed surveys from 2,515 asthmatic patients to identify reliable quality indicators for physician profiling. The researchers found that having a sufficient number of patients and using clear-cut indicators like asthma self-management knowledge and use of inhaled steroids can help determine the best doctor for patients.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalThe American Journal of Managed Care·DateJan 18, 2005

UCLA/VA researchers discover fat gene

Researchers at UCLA and VA discovered a link between lipin levels and body weight, finding that excess lipin can lead to accelerated weight gain in mice. Variations in lipin levels may play a role in why some people are more prone to weight gain than others.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJan 18, 2005
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Deficient DNA repair capacity associated with increased risk of breast cancer

A study found that breast cancer patients have lower DNA repair capacity compared to control subjects, increasing their risk of breast cancer. Deficient DNA repair capacity was associated with a threefold higher risk in women with poor DNA repair capacity.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 18, 2005

Quality of in-hospital CPR may fail to meet guidelines

A study found that in-hospital CPR was often performed suboptimally, with many patients experiencing chest compression rates below 90 per minute and ventilation rates above 20/min. The researchers suggest that improving monitoring and feedback systems could help improve CPR quality.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJan 18, 2005
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.

A much-needed shot in the arm for HIV vaccine development

The Global HIV/AIDS Vaccine Enterprise has launched a scientific strategic plan to address major roadblocks in HIV vaccine development and proposes an innovative collaborative model for researchers worldwide. The plan aims to harness new opportunities, including an expanded pipeline of HIV vaccine candidates and improved animal models.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJan 18, 2005

First x-ray laser gets funding

The LCLS X-ray free electron laser will enable breakthrough science and imaging at the atomic scale, with initial funding of $54 million. Construction is set to begin in 2006, with a new center for ultrafast science expected to be operational by 2009.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·DateJan 18, 2005

Astronomers: 'Bullet star' shines 350 times brighter than the sun

Astronomers have detected Regulus' rotationally induced distortions using the CHARA array, revealing its temperature difference between polar and equatorial regions. The star's centrifugal force causes it to expand, resulting in gravity darkening, where it becomes brighter at its poles than at its equator.

SourceGeorgia State University·DateJan 18, 2005

African Americans half as likely to receive surgery for esophageal cancer

A study found that African Americans are half as likely to receive surgery for esophageal cancer, experiencing poorer survival rates and undertreatment. The disparity is attributed to factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and pre-existing health conditions, highlighting the need for equal access to quality cancer care.

SourceAmerican Society of Clinical Oncology·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateJan 18, 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.

Program effective at reducing depression in teens

A quality improvement intervention for adolescents improved depressive symptoms, mental health-related quality of life, and satisfaction with mental health care. The program also increased access to evidence-based treatments like psychotherapy and counseling.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJan 18, 2005

Global Technology Confidence hits new high in Q4 2004

The Global Technology Confidence Index reached a new high in Q4 2004, driven by strong increases in Latin America and North America. Meanwhile, executives prioritize innovation management and technology alignment for business growth.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·DateJan 18, 2005

Desertification alters regional ecosystem climate interactions

Scientists use NASA Airborne Visible and Infrared Imaging Spectrometer to analyze vegetation and soil changes in response to rain variation over large areas. The study found a long-term decrease in litter cover, bare soil areas, and shifts in plant responses to precipitation events.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJan 18, 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.

Other highlights in the January 19 JNCI

A new study found that adding more types to the current HPV DNA test would detect relatively few additional cases of cervical cancer but lead to thousands of unnecessary exams for women without cancer. Meanwhile, esophageal adenocarcinoma has increased by sixfold over the last 25 years, with no clear explanation for the rise.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 18, 2005

ASBMB-Amgen Award Lecture to focus on orphan nuclear receptors

Orphan nuclear receptors are structurally related to well-known hormone receptors but lack known ligands. Dr. Forman's work identifies novel signaling pathways and regulatory molecules that contribute to critical diseases, including fat cell formation, insulin sensitivity, and cholesterol homeostasis.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·DateJan 18, 2005
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.

Adding radiation therapy to chemotherapy improves survival in patients with high-risk breast cancer

The addition of locoregional radiation therapy significantly improved breast cancer survival and reduced mortality in high-risk patients. A 20-year follow-up study found that the regimen resulted in a 32% reduction in breast cancer mortality and a 27% reduction in overall mortality compared to chemotherapy alone.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 18, 2005

2001-2002 survey finds that many recover from alcoholism

A 2001-2002 survey found that 25% of individuals with alcohol dependence are now dependent, 27.3% are in partial remission, and 11.8% are asymptomatic risk drinkers. The likelihood of abstinent recovery increased with age and certain factors such as marriage, family history of alcoholism, and fewer symptoms of dependence.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism·JournalAddiction·DateJan 18, 2005

CPR performance does not follow guidelines

A study found that chest compressions were given only 48% of the time without spontaneous circulation, with an average compression rate of 64/min. The researchers emphasize the importance of focusing on delivery of correct chest compressions during CPR to improve patient survival.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJan 18, 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.

Fat deficiency gene also spurs obesity

A gene that causes severe fat deficiency is also found to promote obesity in mice, according to new research. The protein affects body weight by altering fat storage and metabolism, with excess levels leading to increased body weight and changes in energy expenditure.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJan 18, 2005

Fat hormone acts on brain circuit to curb obesity, diabetes

A single brain region, the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (ARH), is sufficient for normal control of blood sugar and activity level by the fat hormone leptin. Restoration of leptin signaling in mice improves glucose homeostasis and locomotor activity.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJan 18, 2005

Big, old fish key to restoring groundfish stocks

A diverse network of marine protected areas may be essential for restoring depleted groundfish stocks. Older fish produce more eggs with increased survival chances for larvae, which can grow faster and survive starvation longer.

SourceOregon State University·JournalFisheries·DateJan 18, 2005

Study of CPR quality reveals frequent deviation from guidelines

Researchers found that chest compressions during CPR are often too slow, shallow, and interrupted, while ventilation rates are usually too high. The study used an investigational monitor/defibrillator to measure CPR quality and compared the results to American Heart Association guidelines.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJAMA·DateJan 18, 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.

AGI and USGS provide unique tsunami disaster relief

The American Geosciences Institute (AGI) has partnered with the USGS to provide a Global GIS DVD-ROM, which offers datasets of historical seismicity, topography, and other geospatial information. This database is being distributed to disaster teams to aid in tsunami relief efforts.

SourceAmerican Geosciences Institute·DateJan 18, 2005

Diet, exercise, stimulating environment helps old dogs learn

A two-year study found that older beagles performed better on cognitive tests when fed a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables, exercised regularly, and provided stimulating environments. The combination of these interventions showed the most significant improvements in brain function.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Aging·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·DateJan 18, 2005

A proverb a day may make you healthier

A team of researchers at the University of Toronto created modern proverbs reflecting current public health principles. Their proverbs advise on smoking, balanced diet, and physical activity.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateJan 17, 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.

Multiple therapies curb declining ability to learn with age

Researchers found that combining behavioral enrichment and antioxidant supplementation significantly improved learning abilities in senior dogs. The study suggests similar benefits may be attained in humans due to biological and behavioral parallels between species.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·DateJan 17, 2005

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

A study published in the American Thoracic Society Journal found that total maternal vitamin C intake was positively associated with wheeze in certain infants who did not have a cold during their second year of life. Additionally, U.S.-born Mexican Americans had a higher prevalence of asthma compared to Mexican-born individuals.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 17, 2005

New genetic mutation linked to Parkinson's disease

A new genetic mutation on the LRRK2 gene is responsible for 5% of inherited Parkinson's disease cases, with patients having longer disease duration but less severe symptoms. The discovery has a broad implication for genetic screening for the disease, highlighting the need to include studies of the LRRK2 gene in future testing.

SourceIndiana University·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 17, 2005

Study identifies the most common genetic cause of Parkinson's disease

A recent study found that the LRRK2 mutation is the most common genetic cause of Parkinson's disease, affecting approximately 5% of patients. This mutation is linked to slower disease progression, while symptoms are less severe compared to other mutations in the gene.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 17, 2005

Genetic testing for Parkinson's disease on the horizon

A single gene mutation in the LRRK2 gene has been identified as a cause of around one in 25 cases of Parkinson's disease worldwide. The mutation is associated with both inherited and sporadic forms of the disease, suggesting new diagnostic and treatment options on the horizon.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 17, 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.

Adult moms more affectionate with their infants: Study

A study of 119 mothers in three age groups found that those who received consistent care during childhood displayed more affection towards their infants. In contrast, mothers raised by frequently changing caregivers exhibited less affection and more instrumental behavior.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalHormones and Behavior·DateJan 17, 2005

Ecologists see the primeval wood for the trees

Dr. Fraser Mitchell's study analyzes tree pollen to reconstruct primeval forests, concluding that grazing animals did not exert a significant impact on forest structure. This challenges current European forest conservation policy, which promotes closed canopy deciduous forests, and suggests that primeval forests may have been more open.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalJournal of Ecology·DateJan 17, 2005

Jump-starting T cells in skin cancer

Researchers found that vaccination against tumor-specific proteins can reinvigorate existing T cells, allowing them to attack tumors. This breakthrough suggests a new approach to treating skin cancer by targeting the immune system's natural defense mechanisms.

SourceJournal of Experimental Medicine·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJan 17, 2005

Columbia crew catches a mysterious TIGER in the Indian Ocean

Researchers observed a Transient Ionospheric Glow Emission in Red (TIGER) event in the Indian Ocean, defying known luminous events. The event's unusual characteristics suggest an extraterrestrial origin, with no clear explanation for its cause.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJan 17, 2005
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.

Cancer vaccines: A two-pronged attack?

Researchers found that a cancer vaccine can stimulate the production of CTLs against specific antigens and also reactivate spontaneously produced CTL populations against multiple cancer antigens in about 10% of patients with metastatic melanoma. This non-specific process could potentially eliminate bulk of tumor cells.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJan 17, 2005

Individualized medicine emerging from gene-environment studies

Researchers discover how genetic and environmental factors influence racial health disparities, highlighting the importance of personalized treatment approaches. Studies show that genetic contributions play a larger role in blood pressure differences among African Americans than previously thought.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Psychologist·DateJan 17, 2005

Research sheds light on how cancer cells become resistant to treatment

Research reveals that cancer cells can become resistant to treatment by acquiring P-glycoprotein from neighboring cells, rendering chemotherapy ineffective. This phenomenon has significant implications for tumor behavior and genomic analysis, highlighting the potential benefits of studying protein transfer between cells in tumors.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 17, 2005

Making plastics from oranges

Scientists create a novel polymer, polylimonene carbonate, using limonene oxide and CO2, offering an alternative to petroleum-based plastics. The biodegradable material has characteristics similar to polystyrene, a commonly used plastic.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 17, 2005
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Tip sheet Annals of Internal Medicine, Jan. 18, 2005

Current FOBT screening recommendations are being reexamined due to low test accuracy and non-compliance. A study of 3,121 people found that single office-based FOBT tests missed advanced precancerous lesions 95% of the time.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 17, 2005

Astronomy's case of the missing disks

Researchers found that strong stellar winds around young red dwarfs may be responsible for removing dust and debris disks. The discovery provides a potential explanation for the rare occurrence of debris disks among red dwarfs, but further observations are needed to confirm this hypothesis.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·DateJan 17, 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.

Penn researchers add more evidence to demonstrate role of COX inhibitors in heart-disease risk

A meta-analysis of two trials suggests that COX-2 inhibitor Bextra elevates the combined incidence of heart attack and stroke three-fold in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery. The researchers also found that another COX-2 inhibitor caused changes in atherosclerotic plaques, potentially increasing the risk of rupture.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateJan 17, 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.

COX-2 levels are elevated in smokers

Researchers found that smoking promotes rapid production of COX-2 in oral mucosal cells, with tobacco smoke inducing EGFR activation. This activation leads to increased COX-2 protein production, highlighting a potential mechanism for tobacco-related cancers.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateJan 15, 2005

Depression caused by common treatment for hepatitis C may affect outcome

A recent study by Emory University Health Sciences Center found that patients with depression are less likely to clear the hepatitis C virus from their blood after six months of treatment. Only 34% of those experiencing a significant increase in depression were able to clear the virus, compared to 59-69% of those with milder increases

SourceEmory University Health Sciences Center·DateJan 14, 2005

New prehistoric rock carvings discovered in Northern England

Archaeologists have discovered over 250 new examples of England's finest array of prehistoric rock art carvings, which can now be admired on a comprehensive website. The site features 6,000 images, interactive games and audio clips, and is said to be the most extensive database of its kind in the world.

SourceNewcastle University·DateJan 14, 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.