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Science News Archive November 2006


Page 2 of 16

Drug labels are prescriptions for mistakes

A study found that patients with lower literacy and those taking multiple medications had difficulty understanding prescription label instructions. The researchers recommend redesigning label text and format, as well as a system approach to verify patient understanding, to improve quality care.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cell death following blood 'reflow' injury tracked to natural toxin

A team of researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine has discovered a natural toxin, PAR-polymer, responsible for most tissue and organ damage after a period of blood oxygen loss followed by restored blood flow. The toxin triggers cell death through a process called parthanatos, which can be prevented with potential new treatments.

New journal focuses on lifestyle health

The American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine aims to guide primary care providers in helping patients lead healthier lives through research on daily habits and actions.

Breast cancer treatment procedure gives women more options

A new minimally invasive approach to partial breast irradiation offers an additional treatment option for women with early-stage breast cancer. The procedure uses ultrasound to guide balloon catheter placement, reducing the risk of damaging healthy tissue and allowing for a shorter treatment regime.

Hypnosis helps women cope with breast biopsy

A new study finds that hypnosis can significantly reduce pain and anxiety during breast biopsy procedures, while also shortening procedure time and cost. Women who received self-hypnotic relaxation coaching reported improved coping tools for future waits and work-ups.

Fortified milk reduces morbidity in preschool children

Consumption of fortified milk significantly reduces diarrhea and acute lower respiratory illness among preschool children in developing countries. The study found that fortified milk reduced the number of days with severe illness by 15 percent and incidence of pneumonia by 26 percent.

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.

Save the whales? Sure, but how many?

The Wildlife Conservation Society proposes a simpler, four-tiered system to measure conservation success for wildlife populations. The system aims to move beyond demographic sustainability and focus on ecological functionality, where species serve their role in ecosystems.

Mystery of ancient astronomical calculator unveiled

Researchers have cracked the workings of the Antikythera Mechanism, a 2,000-year-old computer that tracked astronomical movements with remarkable precision. The ancient Greek device predicted eclipses and recreated the moon's irregular orbit, challenging previous assumptions about their technological capabilities.

Got inexpensive contrast agent? Milk plays new role in imaging

Researchers found milk to be an effective alternative to the costly oral contrast agent VoLumen in gastrointestinal imaging exams. Milk was shown to produce similar bowel distension and enhancement without causing more abdominal discomfort than VoLumen, making it a viable option for patients.

Protective garment

Researchers have developed a breathable protective garment material that blocks toxic vapors while allowing water vapor to pass through, maintaining personal comfort and safety. The material is lightweight and selectively rejects chemical agents, making it an ideal solution for military personnel and emergency services.

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.

Common cancer treatments toxic to healthy brain cells

Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center found that common chemotherapy drugs can be toxic to healthy brain cells, causing long-term damage and cognitive impairment. The study suggests that these drugs can disrupt neurogenesis and destroy oligodendrocytes, leading to significant neurological consequences.

Many IRB members have financial relationships with companies

A survey of IRB members found that over one-third have financial relationships with commercial firms, which could compromise the review process. The study highlights the need for clearer policies and more oversight to address these conflicts of interest.

$1.3 million grant to create teacher-training, language program

The University of Alaska Fairbanks has received a $1.3 million federal grant to create a graduate-level training program in second-language acquisition, focusing on the Yupik language. The program aims to provide K-12 teachers with tools to increase fluency and address second-language issues in the classroom.

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.

Evidence from Hawaiian volcanoes shows that Earth recycles its crust

Researchers at Rutgers University have found chemical evidence of recycled rocks in Hawaiian volcanoes, suggesting the Earth's crust is being recycled on a grand scale. This discovery extends beyond calcium and includes other elements such as sulfur, hafnium, and lead, which provide clues about the origin and behavior of magma.

Second opinion yields treatment changes for half of patients

A study from Michigan Medicine found that over half of breast cancer patients who sought a second opinion received a change in their recommended treatment plan. Changes were often made based on reinterpreted imaging results or differing diagnoses, leading to new treatment recommendations.

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.

Parental genes do what's best for baby

A new genetic theory suggests that certain offspring characteristics can only be explained by genetic cooperation between maternal and paternal genes. This challenges the prevailing view of a parental power struggle, instead proposing that positive interactions between mothers and their offspring drive imprinting patterns.

New therapeutic hope for degenerative disc disease

Researchers found that embryonic cells from a dog's notochord can regenerate disc cartilage, providing new therapeutic options for degenerative disc disease. The study suggests that CTGF-secreting notochord cells protect non-chondrodystrophic dogs against the condition.

High dopamine transporter levels not correlated with ADHD

Researchers found lower levels of dopamine transporters in certain brain regions of ADHD patients compared to controls. ADHD patients experienced higher levels of inattention despite similar dopamine transporter levels, indicating a complex relationship between dopamine and attention.

Street robbery is not just for the money

A new study funded by the Economic and Social Research Council found that UK street robbery is often driven by a desire for excitement, status, or self-defense. The research, conducted with 120 offenders, revealed that gratuitous violence used in street robbery is increasing and is linked to drug use and gang involvement.

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.

Measuring plant diversity, predicting vulnerability to invasive species

Scientists assess native plant diversity to evaluate invasion vulnerability and protect native plants, innovative field methods presented in a new book by USGS ecologist Tom Stohlgren. The book provides revised sampling approaches for measuring plant diversity at multiple scales, helping natural resource managers make informed decisions

Committee review of stem-cell fraud finds editors followed all rules

An independent committee concluded that journal editors at Science went above and beyond existing procedures to verify fraudulent stem-cell research articles, but the committee found that the cachet of publishing in Science can be an incentive not to follow the rules. The committee proposed developing a procedure for identifying high-r...

Smoking changes brain chemistry

Researchers found that smoking cessation led to normalized brain metabolite concentrations, with decreased NAA levels in the anterior cingulate cortex correlating with smoking history. Choline and creatine levels were also affected, suggesting a link between smoking and neuronal dysfunction.

Technology helps predict outcome of pediatric heart surgery

Researchers develop a 3D model of a child's heart using MRI scans to simulate blood flow and optimize surgical procedures for complex congenital heart defects. The system aims to improve quality of life for children with single-ventricle hearts by reducing the need for multiple surgeries.

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.

MIT chemist studies how electrons behave

Van Voorhis is developing methods to simulate electron transfer and improve the efficiency of devices such as LEDs and optical displays. His research aims to create a larger portion of energy storage in artificial photosynthesis, potentially leading to more efficient solar energy storage.

Mode of seed dispersal greatly shapes placement of rainforest trees

The study found that different seed dispersal methods, such as gravity and wind, result in distinct patterns of tree clustering in tropical forests. Trees with ballistic dispersal tend to cluster tightly, while those with wind-dispersed seeds have surprisingly tight clusters due to the dense forest canopy.

Stormy days ahead for coral reefs

A scientific team has developed the world's first engineering model to predict how coral reefs will be affected by intense storms. The model takes into account factors such as colony shape, sea-bed strength, and wave force to estimate the likelihood of coral damage.

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.

Why do black and Latino boys lag behind in math?

A new study finds that Black and Latino males struggle in math classes despite positive feedback, due to a tendency to ignore institutional cues. Meanwhile, female students of the same racial groups are more resilient and less affected by low grades.

Brilliant growth without gold

Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Microstructure Physics developed single crystal silicon nanowires using an aluminium catalyst, reducing the size of microchips. The new process fulfils key criteria for industrial-scale production and could lead to improved semiconductor components.

Chronic back pain linked to changes in the brain

Researchers used diffusion tensor imaging to track water molecule movement in brains of chronic back pain patients and healthy controls. Chronic back pain was associated with more directed diffusion in pain-processing regions, suggesting complex brain organization and hyperactivity.

Health inequalities are a growing problem worldwide

A recent study by Yale University researchers highlights substantial global health inequalities influenced by economic, social, and health-sector variables. Countries with low income and high mortality rates have lower investment in human and physical resources, more health risks, and worse educational outcomes.

Mobile mammography brings screening to more Native American women

A new project delivers mobile digital mammography services to remote reservations, transmitting images via satellite for real-time interpretation. The initiative aims to improve breast cancer screening and care for rural American Indian women, who face high mortality rates.

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.

Microcapsules like it hot and salty

Scientists have developed a theoretical model to predict the properties of microcapsules based on salt content and temperature, enabling precise control over their permeability. This allows for intelligent transport systems that can release active substances at specific locations in the body.

Noise-immune stethoscope helps medics hear vital signs in loud environments

Researchers developed an ultrasound-based stethoscope that can accurately read heart and lung sounds at high noise levels, revolutionizing medical auscultation for critically injured patients. The new device is expected to save lives by enabling doctors to diagnose conditions like collapsed lungs and asthma in noisy environments.

Researcher gives robotic surgery tools a sense of touch

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University are developing a system that adds haptic feedback to robotic surgery tools, allowing surgeons to feel the work of mechanical helpers. The team is experimenting with techniques such as force sensors and computer models to convey tactile sensations to operators.

Magnetic needles turn somersaults

Researchers at Max Planck Institute have found a way to easily reverse vortex cores, creating a digital bit that is extremely stable. This mechanism can be used for a new magnetic storage concept, where magnetic pulses can efficiently reverse the vortex core with no losses and quickly.

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.

Minimally invasive treatment helps infertile couples conceive

A new study reveals that embolization, a minimally invasive treatment for varicoceles, significantly improves sperm motility and count in infertile men. Six months after treatment, 26% of couples achieved a pregnancy, with high sperm motility before the procedure being the key predictor of success.

Professor Lu Yongxiang receives the Harnack Medal

Lu Yongxiang, a top-ranking Chinese scientist, has initiated new forms of cooperation with the Max Planck Society, enhancing their research friendship. He is credited with making the Chinese Academy of Sciences a popular international partner.

Have yourself a merry 'nano' Christmas! Nanotechnology holiday gifts

Nanotechnology has become a significant part of consumer goods, with products like Nano-Tex treated fleece jackets and carbon nanotube-infused tennis rackets. The Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies has identified over 350 manufacturer-identified nanotechnology consumer products currently being sold.

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.

Evolution of typhoid bacteria

The study reveals that asymptomatic carriers played a crucial role in the evolution and global transmission of Typhi, leading to antibiotic resistance and hindering treatment efforts. The research also highlights the importance of healthy carriers in facilitating the spread of the bacteria.

Painkillers may threaten power of vaccines

Research suggests that common painkillers like NSAIDs can reduce vaccine effectiveness by reducing antibody production. The study's findings have implications for people who take these medications regularly, particularly those with compromised immune systems.

Tufts experts combine efforts to improve elementary science programs

Researchers at Tufts University are developing a new curriculum that combines engineering with basic science to improve student engagement and understanding. The curriculum, funded by the National Science Foundation, will be tested in Boston-area elementary schools over the next five years.

A stunning new look at déjà vu

A University of Leeds study reports a groundbreaking case of déjà vu in a blind individual, challenging traditional theories. The research suggests that déjà experiences are caused by disrupted familiarity areas in the brain, contradicting optical pathway delay theory.

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.

Study suggests morning pollution pall for Manchester commuters

Researchers at the University of Manchester have discovered that Manchester commuters inhale their biggest daily dose of harmful traffic fumes during the morning rush hour. The air pollution traps particles near ground level, which can be toxic to human health.