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Science News Archive August 2004


Page 7 of 12

MICs shed light on prostate cancer

Researchers found that prostate cancer cells shed immunostimulatory molecules, allowing them to evade the immune system's natural killer cell defense. Soluble MIC levels in serum correlated with high-grade and invasive tumor status, suggesting a potential biomarker for disease progression.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Putting energy into heart protection

A recent study published in JCI Journals reveals that AMP-activated protein kinase plays a crucial role in protecting the heart against ischemic stress. The kinase mediates increased glucose uptake in the heart during ischemia, which helps prevent post-ischemic cardiac dysfunction, apoptosis, and injury.

Annals of Internal Medicine, tip sheet, August 17, 2004

A meta-analysis found that cardiac resynchronization therapy improved the quality of life of people with heart failure, while a cost-effectiveness study showed it costs $90,000 per quality-adjusted life-year saved. Guidelines for follow-up colonoscopies were also criticized for being too often performed.

Gene duplication allowed pigs to have more babies

A study found that pigs have more babies due to gene duplication, which allowed them to adapt to climate change. The researchers used a multi-disciplinary approach to investigate the evolution of aromatase genes and their role in altering reproductive biology.

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.

American Thoracic Society Journal news tips for August 2004 (second issue)

Researchers found that combination antibiotic therapy significantly improved survival rates among critically ill patients with severe pneumonia, with a mortality rate of 23.4% compared to 55.3% for those on monotherapy. A new test combining symptom questions, body weight data, and oxygen concentration measures shows a 91% predictive ra...

British scientists exclude 'maverick' colleagues, says report

A Cardiff University study found that British scientists tend to view controversies as events caused by pre-existing dissenters within the community. In contrast, Swedish scientists see controversies as a process and fully-fledged 'mavericks' as the result of disenchanted scientists attacking the community.

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.

Are physicians over-performing colonoscopy?

A national study led by UC Davis researchers found that surveillance colonoscopies are performed more frequently than necessary, with 24% of gastroenterologists recommending unnecessary procedures. The study suggests that implementation of clinical guidelines can help optimize patient care and reduce healthcare burden.

Stanford researcher's findings may shed light on common, deadly birth defect

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine have made a breakthrough in understanding the cause of holoprosencephaly, a birth defect that affects brain development. By blocking a key protein's action at varying developmental stages, they found that it can influence facial features but leave the brain intact.

Stem cell research targets cerebral palsy

Researchers at Medical College of Georgia are using an animal model of cerebral palsy to identify the most effective way to transplant stem cells. They aim to determine whether transplanted stem cells work best when injected directly into the brain along with natural chemicals called chemokines.

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.

Using statistics to decipher secrets of natural mutation

Researchers developed a new analytical approach to understand naturally occurring mutations, revealing patterns that distinguish between mutational mechanisms. By analyzing genome sequences from 19 mammalian species, they identified regular clock-like fashion of CpG mutations and shed light on factors influencing evolution.

ASCO releases new colon cancer guideline

The guideline states that routine adjuvant chemotherapy is not recommended for medically fit, average-risk patients with Stage II colon cancer. Patients who receive adjuvant chemotherapy have a small but significant benefit in survival rates, around 4-5% more chance of survival five years after surgery.

Alcohol-use and depression among pregnant and postpartum women

Researchers found that women experiencing depressive symptoms, binge drinking, or smoking during pregnancy may be at risk for depression and alcohol use during the first postpartum year. Early identification and treatment of these comorbid conditions can benefit both mothers and children.

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.

Protective gene may enhance vaccine responses

Researchers found that activation of Serine protease inhibitor 2A (Spi2A) can prevent T cell death and increase memory T cells, potentially boosting vaccine efficacy. This discovery could lead to new vaccines or treatments for chronic infections and autoimmune diseases.

Ovarian cancer sheds tumor suppression with loss of estrogen receptor

Researchers found that ovarian cancer tumors lack response to antiestrogens due to decreased ER beta expression, which can lead to increased cell proliferation and apoptosis. The reintroduction of ER beta in cancer cells induced apoptosis, suggesting its regulatory functions in controlling ovarian cancer growth and motility.

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.

Prions act as stepping stones in evolution

A team of researchers discovered that prions can have a beneficial effect on the evolution of yeast cells, allowing them to survive in new environments. This occurs when prions alter the reading of genetic information, leading to changes in the cell's phenotype.

Last of known genes identified in complex obesity syndrome

The identification of the BBS3 gene marks a significant breakthrough in understanding the complex obesity syndrome. By studying the function of the newly discovered protein, researchers hope to unravel the details of other BBS proteins and their potential connections to obesity, learning difficulties, and other related problems.

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.

Genes can influence both alcohol consumption and dependence

A study found that genetic differences are the primary cause of variation in long-term average alcohol intake. Some genes affect both intake and dependence, while others influence only dependence. The research suggests that individuals can make lifestyle choices to improve their health and reduce risk, even with a family history of hea...

Marijuana ingredient inhibits VEGF pathway required for brain tumor blood vessels

A study found that cannabinoids significantly lowered VEGF activity in laboratory mice and patients with late-stage glioblastoma, providing a potential new approach to treating this aggressive form of cancer. The research suggests that cannabinoid-based therapies may target the VEGF pathway, offering a novel pharmacological target.

US economy slows as global consumer debt rises

The US economy is rapidly decelerating due to record deficits and stagnant wage growth. Globalization has led to underconsumption trends in developing countries, while developed nations like the US struggle with low savings rates and rising debt.

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.

New NIST guide helps book'em on digital evidence

The NIST guide provides practical techniques for extracting digital data without altering information or making it appear altered. It covers topics such as securing digital evidence, hardware/software operating systems, physical access, and retrieving configuration information.

Slow road to independence is a problem for the young and parents alike

A study by Professor Gill Jones found that young adults are facing difficulties in achieving independence due to financial constraints, with many relying on parental support. The study highlights the need for clear family law and government policies to address this issue, which affects both middle-class and working-class young people.

Carbon nanotubes eliminate manufacturing woe

Researchers at NIST discovered that adding carbon nanotubes to polypropylene eliminates a common manufacturing headache called 'die-swell'. The addition of nanotubes allows the polymer to be processed at high speed through extruders, enabling the controlled manufacture of smaller components.

Greenland ice core project yields probable ancient plant remains

Researchers from the North Greenland Ice Core Project have recovered plant remnants nearly two miles below the surface, suggesting that trees may have covered Greenland millions of years ago. The discovery provides valuable insights into the rapid formation of the Greenland Ice Sheet and its impact on climate history.

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.

Study reveals potential for more efficient stem cell transplants

A new study published in Science suggests that enhancing the homing of hematopoietic stem cells to bone marrow could increase transplant success rates. By inhibiting or deleting CD26, researchers were able to boost short-term homing and long-term engraftment of these precursor blood cells.

Study indicates why hospitalists improve hospital efficiency

Researchers found that patients cared for by hospitalists had a one-day shorter length of stay and a 10 percent reduction in hospital costs compared to non-hospitalist physicians. Hospitalization costs for hospitalist patients were also lower, with an average savings of $917.

Family-dominated business sectors bad omens for economic health

Research by University of Alberta professors reveals a correlation between extensive family control and economic struggles in developing nations. The study highlights the importance of understanding oligarchic capitalism in these countries to provide effective assistance.

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.

Back to school: Heavy packs endanger kids' health, UCR study shows

A recent UCR study of middle school students in Riverside and San Bernardino counties found that the weight of backpacks is a significant predictor of pain. The researchers calculated that students carrying packs weighing up to 20% of their body weight were more likely to experience back pain.

More doctors needed, without discrimination

The number of female consultants has risen by more than 50% in the last 10 years, driven by increasing numbers of women admitted to medical school. However, sexism and a lack of flexibility in working environments are still major issues affecting female doctors' careers.

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.

Emory researchers map structure of anti-cancer molecule

Emory researchers create three-dimensional, atomic-scale images of epothilone A binding site with key protein controlling cell division. The study's results pave the way for creating new compounds and a clinical tool for pharmacogenetic profiling.

Got the time?

Researchers have created a molecular timetable that can accurately determine an animal's body time based on gene expression levels. The study identified 168 genes with high amplitude circadian patterns and organized them into a daily schedule, revealing a highly accurate method for measuring body time.

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.

No benefit for suctioning of meconium-stained babies at delivery

A study of 2500 babies found no difference in outcomes between those who received suctioning and those who did not, challenging current guidelines on perinatal treatment. The results suggest that routine suctioning may not be effective in preventing meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) or its complications.

Jefferson study shows red wine more heart-healthy than gin

A recent study by Thomas Jefferson University researchers found that red wine has a greater effect in lowering levels of anti-inflammatory substances in the blood compared to gin. The study's results suggest that moderate consumption of red wine may offer some protection against heart disease and stroke.

Shedding new light on biology

The new SPIM microscope allows scientists to study live systems from multiple angles in real conditions, with minimal disruption. This enables the capture of high-quality images that would have been impossible with traditional microscopes.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Technology already exists to stabilize global warming

Princeton University scientists analyzed existing technologies and found that they can prevent significant carbon emissions for five decades. The study identified 15 options, including wind, solar, and nuclear energy, which could work together to stabilize global warming.

Prenatal cocaine use linked to behavior problems in boys

A recent study has found that prenatal cocaine exposure is linked to behavioral problems in boys, but not girls. The study of 473 children aged 6-7 found that those exposed to cocaine in the womb had more behavioral issues and cognitive problems than their non-exposed peers.

New hope for children with fetal alcohol syndrome

Researchers found that a diagnosis of FAS at an early age and a stable environment can reduce the risk of negative life experiences by two-to-four-fold. Children with FAE often lack physical characteristics, but still face challenges with learning, memory, and problem-solving.

Longevity protein may slow many neurodegenerative disorders

Scientists have found that a longevity protein called SIRT1 delays the breakdown of axons in nerve cells, potentially slowing neurodegenerative diseases. The discovery opens new avenues for treating Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and other disorders.

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.