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Science News for February 6, 2006


Children with asthma more likely to have behavior difficulties

A study by Dr. Jill Halterman found that children with severe asthma symptoms often exhibit behavioral problems, such as anxiety and difficulty focusing, which can impact their learning. The research suggests that addressing both asthma and behavior issues simultaneously is crucial for effective treatment.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 6, 2006

Scientists call for Hepatitis treatment of young injection drug users

A new study calls for equal access to Hepatitis C treatment for young injection drug users, citing low reinfection and completion rates among this group. The research suggests that denying treatment due to substance use can be counterproductive, as it often fails to address underlying health issues.

SourceNational Development & Research Institutes·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateFeb 6, 2006
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Children's asthma care improves on state health insurance program

The State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) has improved asthma care for low-income children in New York, resulting in fewer attacks and emergency room visits. SCHIP has increased access to necessary medications, preventative care, and affordable healthcare services.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 6, 2006

Alzheimer's found to be mostly genetic

A large-scale study confirms that Alzheimer's disease has a significant genetic component, accounting for 79% of risk factors. The study analyzed data from over 11,800 twin pairs and found that identical twins showed only a 45% concordance rate for the disease.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateFeb 6, 2006

Genetic factors important in development and timing of Alzheimer's disease

A large twin study found that genetic factors are highly influential in Alzheimer's disease development, with identical twins showing similar age at onset. The study suggests genes play a key role in disease timing, with concordance rates higher in women due to their greater longevity.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateFeb 6, 2006
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.

Gene behind rare but important pregnancy disorder found

Researchers have identified a key gene associated with rare but important pregnancy disorders, including molar pregnancies, spontaneous abortions, and stillbirths. The discovery has significant implications for developing new treatments and therapies for these conditions.

SourceCanadian Institutes of Health Research·JournalNature Genetics·DateFeb 6, 2006

Home paper shredders pose serious injury risk to toddlers

A recent investigation by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission found that home paper shredder injuries disproportionately affect young children, with 71% of cases involving kids under 12 years old. The study highlights the dangers of easy access to shredders and lack of safety features, such as on/off switches and release mechanisms.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 6, 2006

JRRD special issue on hearing and hearing loss

Recent advances in middle-ear function evaluation provide rapid data on health, while prevention programs can reduce noise-induced hearing loss. New research also addresses the impact of aging on hearing, tinnitus management through progressive intervention approaches, and hair cell regeneration for restoring hearing.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalThe Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development·DateFeb 6, 2006

Nearly half of people who need cholesterol treatment don't get it

A study of middle-age and older adults found that about a third had cholesterol disorders requiring drug treatment, but only 54% received it. Cholesterol control was lowest in those at highest risk of heart vessel disease, highlighting the need for improved treatment and control.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·DateFeb 6, 2006

Heparin prepared synthetically could replace animal-derived drug

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have successfully synthesized hundreds of milligrams of heparin using engineered enzymes and co-factor recycling. This breakthrough could enable the widespread use of synthetic heparin in human medical treatments, reducing reliance on animal-derived products.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalBiochemical and Biophysical Research Communications·DateFeb 6, 2006
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.

Parachuting allows krill to eat and run

Researchers found that Antarctic krill can perform multiple daily vertical migrations, with some descending rapidly like parachutes. This behavior is estimated to sequester 0.02 metric gigatons of carbon per year, equivalent to annual emissions from 35 million cars.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 6, 2006

Older adults may reduce risk of metabolic syndrome by eating more whole grains

A recent study from Tufts University found that higher whole-grain intake is associated with lower fasting blood sugar levels and a reduced risk of metabolic syndrome in elderly individuals. Consuming three or more servings of whole grains per day may help mitigate insulin resistance and impaired glucose tolerance.

SourceTufts University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateFeb 6, 2006

Drug resistance may travel same path as quorum sensing

Researchers discovered that bacteria can export molecules similar to communication signals, blocking the effectiveness of drugs. This process, called quorum sensing, allows bacteria to evade treatment and develop resistance to multiple drugs, making infections harder to treat.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2006

Transistor laser functions as non-linear electronic switch, processor

Researchers at University of Illinois create transistor laser that combines functionality of transistor and laser, enabling new signal mixing and switching capabilities. The device shows promise for replacing wiring with optical interconnects in electronic-photonic integrated circuits.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateFeb 6, 2006
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.

Ames Laboratory innovation key to a 'lead-free' Europe

The European Union's ban on lead in electronic appliances has led to the widespread adoption of Ames Laboratory's lead-free solder, which was patented in 1996. The solder blend of tin-silver-copper alloy offers a lower melting temperature and greater strength than other alternatives.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·DateFeb 6, 2006

Study supports limiting television time for children

A study by Dr. Elizabeth Vandewater and colleagues found that increased TV time negatively affects children's interaction with parents, siblings, and creative play. Children under two should not watch TV, while older kids should limit daily viewing to two hours.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 6, 2006

Physician counseling, at-home follow-up may improve teen health behaviors

The Patient-centered Assessment and Counseling for Exercise + Nutrition (PACE+) intervention improved diet and physical activity habits among teens. After one year, adolescents in the PACE+ program reduced their sedentary behaviors by one hour per day and increased their number of active days.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2006

Older adults more vulnerable to distraction from irrelevant information

A study by Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care found that older adults are more easily distracted due to gradual brain changes beginning in middle age. The researchers used fMRI to scan the brains of three age groups, including young adults, middle-aged adults, and older adults, revealing a seesaw imbalance in frontal lobe areas.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalJournal of Cognitive Neuroscience·DateFeb 6, 2006
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.

HIV subtype predicts likelihood of early death from AIDS

A study found that HIV subtype D is associated with a higher risk of early death from AIDS compared to subtype A. The researchers analyzed data from over 300 newly infected individuals in Uganda and found that those infected with subtype D had a significantly shorter average survival time.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2006

New brain hormone puts brakes on reproduction

Researchers discovered a new brain hormone GnIH that directly inhibits the action of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), stimulating the reproductive system. This finding suggests that GnIH plays a similar role in humans and other mammals, offering potential new treatments for infertility and precocious puberty.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2006

Journal article validates the coming of age of hair replacement surgery

A study by Dr. Harris has shown promising results for the SAFE System, a hair replacement surgery that reduces trauma and increases accessibility for African-American and elderly patients. The procedure also boasts virtually pain-free surgery, faster recovery time, and increased efficiency for physicians.

SourceHair Sciences Center·JournalDermatologic Surgery·DateFeb 6, 2006
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.

Long-term poverty affects mental health of children

A recent study found that long-term poverty is associated with increased antisocial behavior in children, which can last a lifetime. However, the opposite effect is observed for depression, where childhood poverty leads to decreased symptoms as income levels improve.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Health and Social Behavior·DateFeb 6, 2006

Flights reveal intriguing information about ice particles in clouds

High-resolution images of ice crystals provide detailed information about ice clouds, including particle size and shape, which influence the longevity of the cloud. The Tropical Warm Pool International Cloud Experiment, led by the ARM Program, combines aircraft and surface data to better understand cirrus structure in the tropics.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateFeb 6, 2006

Medical centers vary in disclosing conflicts of interest

Researchers found that academic medical centers have varying approaches to disclosing conflicts of interest to potential research participants. While some institutions focus on avoiding legal liability, others aim to provide more detailed information about the nature and implications of financial relationships.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalAcademic Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2006

Chance, music, and the ear of the beholder

A team of scientists found that individual neurons in the auditory cortex respond more strongly to stimuli conforming to the 1/f rule than to others. This selective sensitivity leads to a more accurate representation of natural sounds within the brain.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 6, 2006
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Some masks used in children's asthma treatment not effective, research shows

Research found that some masks used in combination with pressurized metered-dose inhalers for children's asthma treatment have poor fit and high dead space volume, reducing medication effectiveness. The study suggests that better-fitting masks are crucial for effective drug delivery.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalRespiratory Care·DateFeb 6, 2006

Antarctic krill provide carbon sink in Southern Ocean

Scientists discovered that Antarctic krill 'parachute' several times during the night, injecting more carbon into the deep sea than previously understood. Krill feed on phytoplankton at night and excrete waste at depth, making them a key player in removing carbon from the atmosphere.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 6, 2006
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.

New 'Lemurs of Madagascar' book released

The new book provides comprehensive information on lemurs, including detailed photos and illustrations, to help identify the 71 species found in Madagascar. Conservation International's updated guide highlights the critical need to protect lemurs due to deforestation and habitat destruction.

SourceConservation International·DateFeb 6, 2006

Historic records shed light on soldiers' lifelong war scars

Researchers analyzed over 15,000 Union veterans' records, finding a strong link between war experiences and increased signs of cardiac, gastrointestinal, and nervous disease. Youngest soldiers who witnessed the bloodiest combat had shorter life spans, despite surviving the war.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateFeb 6, 2006

More training needed to ensure accuracy of urine drug tests

A survey of primary care physicians found that only 23% used effective urine sample collection methods, while 40% were unsure about poppy seeds causing positive opioid test results. Misinterpretation of false-positive findings can lead to false accusations and diminished trust among parents, schools, and counselors.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2006

Gut protein found to protect against infection and intestinal breakdown

Researchers discovered a gut protein called FXR that protects the small intestine from bacterial invasion by binding to bile acids. This finding provides hope for treating conditions of the small intestine, such as sepsis and intestinal damage.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2006
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.

UF scientists trace origin of shark's electric sense

Researchers at UF identified neural crest cells as the source of sharks' electrical ESP, a previously unknown function. This discovery fortifies the idea that early ancestors may have had the ability to detect electric fields.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalEvolution & Development·DateFeb 6, 2006
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.

Elsevier launches High Energy Density Physics

High Energy Density Physics is a new journal launched by Elsevier to publish research on extreme conditions, including planetary interiors and astrophysical phenomena. The journal aims to provide a platform for scientists to study material properties and hydrodynamics under high-energy density regimes.

SourceElsevier·JournalHigh Energy Density Physics·DateFeb 6, 2006

Scientists find ability for grammar hardwired into humans

Researchers found that deaf Nicaraguan boys developed complex grammatical components and used them in the same way as highly evolved languages. This suggests that the concept of 'subject' is an innate tendency in humans, existing before linguistic input or exposure to other language speakers.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2006

Link discovered between depression and changes in the brain in Alzheimer's disease

A study found that Alzheimer's patients with a history of depression have more rapid cognitive decline and greater brain changes, including tangles and plaques in the hippocampus. The findings suggest that identifying potential mechanisms linking geriatric depression to AD may lead to new treatment strategies.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateFeb 6, 2006

Study finds significant reduction in respiratory illnesses in babies breastfed six months vs. four

A recent study found that babies breastfed for six months have a significant reduction in respiratory illnesses, including pneumonia and ear infections. The study's lead author says the findings support the recommendation of exclusive breastfeeding for six months, which also provides protection against gastrointestinal infections.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 6, 2006

Fruit fly reveals a potential connection between dementia and cancer

Researchers used a fruit-fly model of Alzheimer's disease to examine the relationship between cell-division proteins and neurodegeneration. They found that abnormal expression of these proteins accompanied neuronal death in their fly model, which was prevented by blocking the cell cycle or feeding anticancer drugs.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 6, 2006
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.

Periodontitis is associated with pregnancy complications

Chronic periodontitis and certain bacteria are linked to preeclampsia in pregnant women. Periodontal infection may increase the risk of preterm birth due to its association with cardiovascular disease. The study's findings suggest that pregnancy-associated gingivitis is preventable and easy to treat.

SourceAmerican Academy of Periodontology·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateFeb 6, 2006

Methadone therapy - one dose does not fit all

A new study found that effective methadone doses vary widely among patients, with some achieving abstinence on as little as 1.5 mg and others requiring up to 191.2 mg. Patients with posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, or a history of previous detoxifications from heroin tend to require higher doses.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2006

Bank of America grant to expand community-based childhood immunization program in northern Manhattan

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation grant enables the Mailman School of Public Health's Northern Manhattan Start Right Coalition to scale up its community-based childhood immunization program. The program has seen a significant improvement in immunization rates, with an 80.5% current rate for children aged 19-35 months, exceeding...

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·DateFeb 6, 2006

March of Dimes commits additional $2.4 million to prematurity research

The March of Dimes has awarded $2.4 million in grants to six innovative scientists working on new ways to identify women at increased risk for premature birth and understand the role of inflammation and progesterone in triggering labor. The goal is to prevent premature births, which are the leading cause of newborn death in the US.

SourceMarch of Dimes Foundation·DateFeb 6, 2006
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.

'Freshman Fifteen' is a myth, but weight gain is still a problem

A Rutgers University study found that college students experience average weight gain of seven pounds during their first year, primarily resulting from consuming excess calories. The researchers recommend adopting a balanced diet and increasing exercise to prevent weight gain and associated health risks.

SourceRutgers University·JournalJournal of American College Health·DateFeb 6, 2006

Tropical fires add injury to biodiversity insult

Tropical regions are facing growing fire hazards, leading to more severe impacts on local ecosystems. The study found that repeated fires are causing cumulative stress to sensitive species.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalEcology Letters·DateFeb 6, 2006

Thousands of barges could save Europe from deep freeze

Researchers propose using over 8,000 barges to pump saltwater onto ice sheets in the North Atlantic, creating a thicker sea ice layer that could help strengthen the down-welling current. This method aims to reduce the impact of global warming on northern Europe's climate.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalClimatic Change·DateFeb 6, 2006

Course of bipolar disorder in youths described for the first time

Researchers assessed 263 children and adolescents with bipolar spectrum disorders, finding that symptoms were longer-lasting and more variable in youth than adults. The study also revealed faster cycling between symptomatic periods and a higher likelihood of diagnosis changes over time.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateFeb 6, 2006
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for Feb. 7, 2006

A new clinical prediction rule for estimating the probability of PE significantly reduces adverse outcomes by identifying patients at low or high risk. The revised Geneva score provides a standardized, easy-to-compute tool for diagnosing and managing PE.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 6, 2006