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Science News Archive March 2008


Page 3 of 19

Effectiveness of antipsychotic drugs in first-episode

A randomized trial of 498 patients found that second-generation antipsychotics did not outperform first-generation drugs in reducing symptoms. The study's results suggest that clinicians should consider cost and treatment duration when selecting an antipsychotic medication for first-episode schizophrenia.

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.

Sniffing out danger

Researchers at Northwestern University discovered that a single negative experience linked to an odor rapidly teaches us to identify and discriminate it from similar ones. The study found specific changes in brain regions enhancing perceptual sensitivity for smells with high biological relevance.

Self-assembled materials form mini stem cell lab

A Northwestern University team has developed a method to assemble polymer and small molecule into flexible but strong sacs that can grow human stem cells. The sacs have been shown to survive for weeks in culture, allow proteins to pass through the membrane, and even self-repair damaged membranes.

Study finds widespread care disparities in Medi-Cal program

A study by UCLA researchers found significant disparities in healthcare quality for African Americans, Hispanics, and non-Hispanic whites in California's Medi-Cal program. The study suggests that efforts to improve services for minority populations could lead to better health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.

Small desert beetle found to engineer ecosystems

A tiny beetle, the mesquite girdler, is speeding up desertification by regulating plant growth. The beetle's actions are depleting nutrients for other plant species, altering the Chihuahuan desert's ecosystem.

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.

Hidden tragedy of under reported neonatal mortality

In Northern Vietnam, a significant disparity between reported and actual neonatal mortality rates has been discovered. The discrepancy highlights the need for robust health statistics to guide national and international health initiatives.

Under the sea

Researchers have mapped the 8-mile thick molten rock layers beneath the Atlantic Ocean's edges, providing insight into the break-up of continents and massive greenhouse gas releases. The study also developed a new method to see through lava flows, enabling oil exploration in previously restricted areas.

Silicon chips for optical quantum technologies

A team of physicists and engineers at the University of Bristol demonstrated control of single particles of light on a silicon chip, a crucial step towards a super-powerful quantum computer. The controlled-NOT gate, the building block of a quantum computer, was achieved with high-fidelity operation.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

PTSD associated with more, longer hospitalizations

Researchers found PTSD associated with increased mental healthcare utilization and hospitalizations in urban primary care patients. Trauma exposure was also linked to substance dependence and depression, but not necessarily to increased healthcare use apart from mental health visits.

Rutgers physicist earns prestigious Sloan Foundation Research Fellowship

Kristjan Haule, a Rutgers physicist, has received a $50,000 Sloan Foundation Research Fellowship to develop computer simulations predicting properties of novel materials with layers only a few atoms thick. These materials have the potential to replace traditional semiconducting devices for solar energy conversion.

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.

A new method to identify mutated genes in human diseases

Researchers have developed a new method to identify mutated genes in human diseases by analyzing gene expression data. The study identified candidate genes for 81 diseases, including epilepsy and muscular dystrophy, paving the way for a better understanding of disease mechanisms.

The complexities of genetic susceptibility to tuberculosis revealed

Researchers identified a genetic variant associated with severe tuberculosis (TB) in Vietnam, highlighting the importance of studying host-pathogen interactions. The study suggests that understanding genetic susceptibility to infectious diseases may lead to more targeted treatments and vaccines.

Actual use of asthma medications contradicts guidelines

A study found that only 16% of Australians who started using asthma preventer medications regularly, while most new users stopped filling prescriptions after two years. The research highlights a significant gap between guidelines and real-world use.

Can you rescue a rainforest? The answer may be yes

Researchers in Costa Rica have successfully restored a tropical rainforest ecosystem by planting mixed-species tree plantations on worn-out pasture land. The project, led by Carl Leopold, has shown promising results, with native species and fungi helping to control erosion and support growth.

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 matter matters in the universe

Researchers investigated B-meson decays to understand the origin of matter's dominance over antimatter in the universe. The study reveals a significant discrepancy between theoretical models and observations, suggesting the presence of a new principle of physics.

Yale study shows weight bias is as prevalent as racial discrimination

A Yale study reveals weight bias is as common as racial discrimination, with women experiencing twice the risk of men, and affecting workplace and interpersonal interactions. The study documents self-reported weight discrimination and compares it to experiences of racial and gender-based discrimination among adults.

Findings reveal how dengue virus matures, becomes infectious

Biologists at Purdue University have determined the structural changes that enable dengue virus to mature and become infectious. The researchers found that the changing acidity plays a vital role in this process, allowing the virus to fuse with cell membranes and infect new host cells.

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.

Relaxation training may improve control of hard-to-treat systolic hypertension

A study found that relaxation response training significantly improved treatment of isolated systolic hypertension in elderly patients. The approach reduced the need for medication and cut healthcare costs by billions of dollars. By eliciting the relaxation response, participants experienced a significant drop in systolic blood pressure.

Saving cancer patients' skin

A new breed of targeted cancer drugs is attacking specific proteins in cancer cells, but also causes devastating dermatologic side effects. The Cancer Skin Care Program at Northwestern University provides specially formulated lotions and drugs to help patients preserve their dignity and quality of life.

Armed beetles find a mate, whatever their size

Researchers discovered that Librodor japonicus beetles employ distinct strategies to attract mates based on their body size. Smaller males use 'sneaky matings' behind larger males, while medium-sized beetles search for unoccupied feeding sites. This unique approach ensures all individuals have a chance at finding a mate without conflict.

Once-daily basal insulin glargine vs. thrice-daily prandial

The APOLLO study found that once-daily basal insulin glargine achieved similar reductions in haemoglobin A1c to thrice-daily prandial insulin lispro, with improved patient satisfaction. Insulin glargine was associated with fewer injections, lower risk of hypoglycaemia, and greater patient satisfaction compared to insulin lispro.

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.

Too many women still dying from breast cancer, says charity

A comprehensive review of breast cancer research identifies key gaps in treatment and patient care, calling for increased attention on prevention, detection, and spread. The charity Breast Cancer Campaign is already funding innovative projects to fill these gaps and improve survival rates.

Hope among patients with ALS may take a variety of forms

A study published in Journal of Palliative Medicine explores the concept of hope in ALS patients, revealing a range of coping capabilities that extend beyond physical disability. The research highlights several themes of hope, including personal fulfillment, social support, and spiritual beliefs.

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

UCLA researchers examine human embryonic stem cell genome

Researchers from UCLA used high-resolution technique array CGH to examine the genome of two human embryonic stem cell lines, finding differences in gene numbers that could impact disease susceptibility and therapeutic applications. These differences can provide a unique genetic fingerprint for each line, enabling researchers to choose ...

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Social anxiety disorder

Social anxiety disorder is a chronic and pernicious condition that can lead to depression and substance abuse in adulthood. Research highlights the importance of understanding its neurobiological underpinnings, including increased amygdala activity and heritable temperamental traits.

Researchers link genetic errors to schizophrenia

A team of researchers found that deletions and duplications of DNA are more common in people with schizophrenia, affecting genes related to brain development and neurological function. The study suggests that schizophrenia is caused by many different mutations in many different genes.

Rectal artemisinins rapidly eliminate malarial parasites

Researchers pooled data from 15 clinical trials to compare the efficacy of rectal artemisinins and conventional injectable antimalarials like quinine. Rectal artemisinins cleared malarial parasites more rapidly than quinine, suggesting they could be a lifesaving intervention in severe malaria cases.

Cells from the Research Institute of the MUHC on the road to China

A $150,000 grant from Quebec's Ministère du Développement économique will support Dr. Constantin Polychronakos' research into preventing type 2 diabetes by triggering insulin-producing thymus cells. The collaboration with Chinese scientists aims to develop a new therapeutic approach using high-performance drug screening equipment.

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.

Brain's 'sixth sense' for calories discovered

The brain can detect calorie content in food independently of taste, according to a study published in Neuron. The research found that the brain's reward system is activated by caloric intake, leading to a preference for calorie-containing foods over non-caloric sweeteners.

FSU receives $2.5M grant to develop forecasts for farmers

Florida State University has been awarded a two-year $2.5 million grant from the US Department of Agriculture to provide climate forecasting for farmers in Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. The research will help farmers make informed decisions on planting crops such as peanuts, cotton, and strawberries.

MSU professor earns Bowditch Award for work on hypertension

Dr. Watts' research suggests that serotonin may play a role in lowering blood pressure, contradicting previous findings that it causes constriction. She hopes to resolve the 'serotonin puzzle' with her lecture and gather input from fellow physiologists.

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.

Climate change threatens Amazonian small farmers

A six-year study reveals that climate anomalies like El Nino can drive many small farmers to ruin, forcing them into cities without adequate support. The researchers found a rapid decay in farmers' memories of major climate events due to high rates of turnover and limited access to information.

Additional evidence of wolverine found in the Tahoe National Forest

Researchers and volunteers have intensified the search for wolverine evidence in the Tahoe National Forest after a recent photograph was captured. Genetic analysis of scat and hair samples is underway to determine the animal's origin and sex, with potential implications for conservation efforts.

UK physician revolutionizes gene research

A UK physician's groundbreaking study reveals that siRNA therapies may have unintended consequences, such as blocking blood vessel growth in various organs. This discovery underscores the need for cautious approach in clinical trials using gene silencing technology.

Does an official government apology really make amends?

Researchers found that official apologies can create a perception of remorse, but their effectiveness in promoting forgiveness is limited. The study suggests that intergroup apologies should be considered as part of a long process of reconciliation rather than a magic solution to heal past wounds.

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.

Umbilical cord blood cell therapy in an animal model of Alzheimer's disease

Researchers found that human umbilical cord blood cell therapy significantly reduced amyloid-β and β-amyloid plaques in mice with Alzheimer's-like disease. The treatment modulates the immune system by suppressing CD40-CD40L activity, offering potential for targeting inflammatory responses associated with degenerative conditions.

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.

Scientists launch first comprehensive database of human oral microbiome

The Human Oral Microbiome Database (HOMD) is a free online compendium that provides detailed biological entries for each species and an extensive catalogue of the thousands of genes expressed by these microbes. The database aims to facilitate research into oral diseases such as tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Basis created for directing and filming blood vessels

Researchers at Uppsala University created a new method to film blood vessel cells moving in response to signals, enabling the study of cancer cell migration and nerve control. The technique can also be used to understand how desirable vessel formation occurs during wound healing.