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Science News Archive December 2005


Page 9 of 12

Mathematics used to discern immune response to infectious diseases

The University of Pittsburgh has established an Immune Modeling Center to study immune responses to infectious diseases using mathematical modeling. The center will focus on understanding innate and adaptive immune responses to influenza A virus, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and Francisella tularensis.

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.

Greyhounds and humans going round the bend

A study published in Nature found that greyhounds can sustain high speeds around corners without slowing down due to centripetal forces. Unlike humans, who are limited by cornering forces, greyhounds use a unique biomechanical approach that allows them to maintain speed.

New focus on medical professionalism needed to improve public health

The article highlights the need for a new focus on medical professionalism to address the demoralization of doctors in Britain. The RCP working party's recommendations aim to redefine medical professionalism, incorporating professional values into evaluating doctor performance and development.

Researchers publish dog genome sequence

The published dog genome sequence offers insights into genetic factors contributing to human health and disease. The analysis revealed that dogs share common genetic elements with humans and mice, highlighting the importance of understanding the evolution of genomes.

NC State scientist assists in cracking code of dog genome

Researchers have successfully sequenced the canine genome, revealing genetic similarities with humans that could help identify disease-causing genes. The breed-specific sequencing project aims to develop new cancer treatments by identifying genetic changes in individual dog breeds.

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.

Nutritional genomics identifies a potential weight-loss resistance gene

A recent study found that a genetic variation in the perilipin gene is associated with weight loss resistance, particularly in men and women who have become obese. Carriers of this gene variant lost an average of 20 pounds during a low-calorie diet, while those without it experienced significant weight changes.

Similar stem cells in insect and human gut

Researchers have discovered that adult fruitflies have the same stem cells controlling cell regulation in their gut as humans do. This finding is significant for understanding digestive disorders, including some cancers, and developing cures. The similarity between insect and human gut stem cells suggests a common evolutionary origin.

How do boxers differ from poodles? Researchers collar genomes

A study comparing the genomes of boxers and poodles identified significant genetic variations that could be used to study diseases, development, and behaviors in dogs. The research also sheds light on evolutionary influences shaping mammalian genomes.

Mercury in atmosphere could be washed out more easily than earlier believed

A recent study found that mercury can be carried long distances in the atmosphere and combined with other chemicals, making it more water-soluble and easily removable. High concentrations of reactive gaseous mercury can now be present even far from industrial sources, posing a significant threat to ecosystems.

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.

Alaska's Columbia Glacier continues on disintegration course

The glacier has reached the midpoint of its projected retreat, with a shrinking length of 9 miles since 1980. The glacier's rapid retreat is attributed to complex physical processes and warming trends, resulting in an annual discharge of nearly 2 cubic miles of ice into the Prince William Sound.

Mountainous plateau creates ozone 'halo' around Tibet

Scientists found high levels of ozone at extreme altitudes in Tibet, forming a 'halo' that may put climbers at risk due to its medical effects. Ozone concentrations are higher than expected and could exacerbate hypoxia and respiratory issues.

Large Himalaya earthquakes may occur sooner than expected

Recent Himalayan earthquakes may be followed by larger events in the same region, while medieval earthquakes were much larger and less frequent. The study aims to understand what governs the recurrence interval and size of these rare events.

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.

TLR4 gene found to protect against tumor development

Researchers at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences discovered that the TLR4 gene plays a critical role in protecting against tumor development and chronic inflammation. This finding suggests targeting the innate immune system may be a useful tool in fighting various human diseases, including cancer.

Salty taste preference linked to birth weight

Research found that infant birth weight is inversely related to salty taste acceptance, suggesting a lasting influence on flavor and food preferences. The study's results could inform programs aimed at reducing salt intake, which is linked to high blood pressure.

Open Source Biotechnology alliance for international agriculture

The BiOS Initiative aims to develop inclusive technology toolkits by mapping patent landscapes and fostering collaboration among scientists, farmers, and innovators. This effort seeks to provide better problem-solving options for developing countries, prioritizing local needs and independence.

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.

How seizures progress to epilepsy in the young

Researchers found that GABA-triggered neurons contribute to the development of epilepsy in immature brains through fast oscillations. As brain maturity increases, glutamate's excitatory effects dominate, reducing GABA's impact on epilepsy.

Scientists push forward understanding of multiple sclerosis

Researchers have identified two proteins found in the Neurofascin gene that link glial ensheathment of nerve fibers to node formation. This breakthrough discovery may help find ways to improve nerve conduction in patients with conditions like MS.

Dog genome sequence and analysis published in Nature

The study unlocked genetic variation among dog breeds, revealing ~2.5 million individual genetic differences among breeds that can be used to locate the genetic contributions to physical and behavioral traits. The analysis also found evolutionary conservation with humans, highlighting regions of the human genome that are highly preserv...

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Regulating gene expression – STAT

STAT proteins play a key role in regulating gene expression by phosphorylating specific sequences, leading to transcriptional activation. This process is essential for various cellular processes, including proliferation and differentiation.

A Jekyll-and-Hyde enzyme's role in Alzheimer's

Researchers discovered that a Jekyll-and-Hyde enzyme plays a crucial role in Alzheimer's disease. Transient production of the enzyme p25 enhances learning and memory, whereas chronic expression impairs these cognitive functions. The study uses mice to demonstrate the dual effects of p25 on neural mechanisms.

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.

Trust-building hormone short-circuits fear in humans

A brain imaging study has discovered that oxytocin quells the brain's fear hub, the amygdala, and its brainstem relay stations in response to fearful stimuli. This finding suggests a potentially powerful treatment approach toward socially relevant fear and may have therapeutic value in disorders characterized by social avoidance.

Acne, milk and the iodine connection

Researcher Harvey Arbesman links acne and dairy products to the presence of iodine in milk. Studies have shown significant iodine levels in various countries' dairy products. Iodine intake has been linked to acne exacerbation since the 1960s.

Gene loops

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have identified a new mechanism for gene regulation known as 'gene loops', which play a crucial role in controlling the expression of genes. This discovery has significant implications for our understanding of gene function and regulation.

Global warming could halt ocean circulation, with harmful results

A study by Michael Schlesinger predicts a high likelihood of thermohaline circulation collapse due to global warming. The shutdown would have devastating effects on the climate, including warmer temperatures in the southern hemisphere and colder temperatures in the northern hemisphere.

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.

Groundbreaking guidelines promote early detection

The new guidelines provide a concise diagnostic and treatment guide for patients with PAD. They emphasize the importance of early detection and treatment, recommending specific questions, clinical clues, and therapeutic choices to maintain functional independence and decrease the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

T-rays: New imaging technology spotlighted by American Chemical Society

T-rays use terahertz (THz) region of the electromagnetic spectrum to sense and image objects, providing spectroscopic information about composition. Advances enable nanoscale detection and long-range imaging up to 100 meters, with potential applications in national security, genetics, and protein folding research.

High energy physics team captures network prize at SC|05

The Caltech-led team captured the network prize at SC|05 by transferring 475 terabytes of high energy physics data in 24 hours and sustaining average data rates of over 100 gigabits per second. The team demonstrated the value of collaboration and achieved records while transferring data from running experiments.

Pneumonia hospitalization rates on the rise for older adults

Researchers found a 20% increase in pneumonia hospitalization rates for patients aged 65-74 and 75-84 years between 1988-1990 and 2000-2002. The proportion of patients with underlying conditions, such as chronic cardiac disease or diabetes mellitus, increased significantly during this period.

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.

NASA's AURA satellite peers into Earth's ozone hole

This year's Antarctic ozone hole measured slightly larger than last year's at 9.4 million square miles, but still smaller than in previous years. The protective ozone layer has gotten larger since satellite measurements began in 1979, primarily due to human-produced chlorine and bromine chemicals.

Medicare fraud settlement causes oncologists to lose income

A study by Northwestern University found that a major sales promotion effort by AstraZeneca and TAP Pharmaceuticals led to significant income increases for urologists. The switch to Average Sales Price-based Medicare reimbursement is expected to decrease oncologists' revenue by 8%.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Growing more forests in United States could contribute to global warming

Research from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and Carnegie Institution suggests that planting trees in the US could cool the Earth for a few decades, but lead to planetary warming in the long term. Tropical forests, however, can help keep global temperatures cool by evaporating water and absorbing carbon dioxide.

Serious adverse reactions to smallpox vaccine appear to be limited

A study of 37,901 civilians who received smallpox vaccine between 2003 and 2004 found 822 reports of adverse events, with 100 serious cases reported. No preventable life-threatening adverse reactions were identified, highlighting the effectiveness of vaccination screening and education.

New treatment for pancreatic cancer allows life-saving surgery

Researchers developed a new treatment that reverses traditional treatment steps, reducing tumor size and increasing surgical removal options. The treatment has shown significant success in shrinking tumors, with no progression or recurrence observed after surgery.

Central European scientists awarded EMBO/HHMI startup grants

The EMBO/HHMI Startup Grants program aims to establish promising young scientists in Central Europe with resources and space. The joint initiative provides ongoing support for researchers after the grant period ends, helping to strengthen science in the region.

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.

Other highlights in the December 7 JNCI

A new study in mice found that chronic stress and UV radiation suppress the immune system, leading to increased tumor formation and quicker disease progression. Researchers observed suppression of T-cell function and type 1 cytokines, highlighting the potential for chronic stress to increase cancer risk.

Unexpected link between gene in liver and iron overload

Research reveals that mice lacking SMAD4 gene in the liver exhibit dramatic iron accumulation, similar to human hemochromatosis. The liver plays a central role in iron regulation, and boosting TGF-ß signaling pathway holds promise for treatment.

Study: Temperate forests could worsen global warming

A new study published in Geophysical Research Letters found that northern temperate forests can contribute to global warming by absorbing a lot of sunlight without losing much moisture. In contrast, tropical forests help keep the Earth cool by evaporating large amounts of water. The research suggests that planting forests at certain la...

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.

Nov/Dec 2005 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

The article discusses the importance of finding a balance between investing in new technologies and improving existing systems of care. Studies show that physicians employed by large health organizations report lower job satisfaction, while independent practice is associated with better quality of work life.

Cassini's photo album from a season of icy moons

The Cassini mission has released a flood of new images of Saturn's icy moons, revealing detailed features such as plumes on Enceladus and compositional variation on the surfaces of Rhea, Dione, and Hyperion. The new views include large mosaics, movies, and false-color views, providing insights into the moons' intricacies.