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Science News Archive April 2006 - Page 11


Page 11 of 15

Study may help slay 'Yellow Monster'

Researchers at Northern Arizona University have made groundbreaking discoveries about uranium's impact on DNA, potentially shedding light on environmental contamination and health effects of depleted uranium. The study's findings have significant implications for Native American communities and may help address long-standing concerns a...

SourceNorthern Arizona University·DateApr 6, 2006

Study supports theory why brain-injured children often recover

Researchers found that younger children's brains involved more brain areas during language exercises, indicating greater flexibility. As children matured, brain activity concentrated on the left side, offering hope for rehabilitation of brain function after stroke or traumatic brain injuries.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateApr 6, 2006
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.

Blood pressure medication may revolutionize treatment of Marfan syndrome

Researchers have discovered that losartan can prevent the development of aortic aneurysms in mice with Marfan syndrome, suggesting a potential new treatment. The drug works by lowering transforming growth factor beta activity, which is responsible for the syndrome's catastrophic developmental defects.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalScience·DateApr 6, 2006

Scientists learn more about how viruses reproduce, spread

Researchers identify matrix protein as critical component in VSV's ability to invade cells and replicate, leading to potential vaccine development and anti-viral agents. The discovery also provides insights into how viruses shut down cell protein-making capabilities.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJournal of Virology·DateApr 6, 2006

JCI table of contents, April 6, 2006

In a study on Huntington disease, researchers found that cystamine increased brain levels of protective protein HSJ1b and BDNF, suggesting a promising candidate for treatment. The study also revealed that cystamine raises BDNF in an HSJ1b-dependent manner.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 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.

AIUM announced EER grant recipients

The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) has awarded several ultrasound research grants to its members through the Educational Enhancement Research (EER) program. The recipients include T. Douglas Mast, PhD for quantitative real-time monitoring of thermal ablation using pulse-echo ultrasound imaging and Roxana Vlad, MSc ...

SourceAmerican Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine·DateApr 6, 2006

Mutation in blood stem cells provides clues to cancer development

Researchers identify mutation in JAK2 signaling pathway, allowing cells to bypass normal red blood-cell production process. This discovery could lead to the development of targeted treatments that improve treatment outcomes for patients with PV disease.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 6, 2006

Monkey-dung study offers clues about land-use, wildlife ecology

Researchers found that forest degradation and human presence significantly influence the prevalence of parasitic nematodes in red colobus monkeys. The study's results suggest that easily measurable indices like stump density can predict host-parasite dynamics and inform conservation efforts.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalConservation Biology·DateApr 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.

AIUM Presidential Recognition Awards presented

J. Brian Fowlkes and Harvey L. Nisenbaum were selected for the award due to their dedication to the AIUM and commitment to the ultrasound community. The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine presented the prestigious awards to recognize their outstanding contributions.

SourceAmerican Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine·DateApr 6, 2006

Landmark discovery of a Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus receptor

Researchers have discovered a major gateway for KSHV entry into human cells, suggesting the virus may facilitate its own infectivity by inducing stress responses. This finding has significant implications for understanding Kaposi's sarcoma and developing new treatments.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalScience·DateApr 6, 2006

First clinical results reported for Sangamo's ZFP therapeutic

The study showed that SB-509 was safe and well-tolerated, with no dose-limiting toxicities observed. Improvements in pain, numbness, and neurological symptoms were seen in approximately 50% of patients, with significant anecdotal improvements reported in neurologic exam scores and electrophysiologic testing.

SourceBurns McClellan·DateApr 6, 2006

Crime scene investigates: The case of the dead cow

A new DNA technique, known as plant-fingerprinting, can identify poisonous plants from animal remains by analyzing DNA sequences in the rumen. This method uses plant material extracted from animals within 24 hours of death to create a unique template for amplifying specific DNA sequences.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateApr 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.

Plants used to detect gas leaks, from outer space!

Researchers have developed a remote-sensing technology that uses the spectral quality of light reflected from plant leaves to detect gas leaks. This technology can also be used to monitor environmental effects and ensure public acceptability and safety in carbon capture and storage schemes.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateApr 6, 2006

Seniors look on the bright side

Researchers found that older participants preferred happy faces and avoided angry ones, while younger subjects showed a preference for fearful faces. This study challenges traditional views on how age affects emotional processing and suggests a more positive outlook in older adults.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalPsychology and Aging·DateApr 6, 2006

Brown University geologists create 5-million-year climate record

The study found a pattern of steady cooling in the EEP over 5 million years, with temperatures dropping by roughly one degree Celsius every million years. The research suggests that ocean regions near Antarctica were the main driver of EEP cooling, contradicting previous theories about rapid glacier growth in high northern latitudes.

SourceBrown University·JournalScience·DateApr 6, 2006

WHO's 2006 World Health Report 'a disappointment'

The WHO's 2006 World Health Report faces criticism for its limited information on human-resource gaps and needs. The report lacks geographical distribution, skill levels, and sector balance details, hindering policymakers' decisions. The Lancet comments that the WHR shows a significant gap between current knowledge and necessary data.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 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.

UCSD biochemists discover bacteria's Achilles' heel

Researchers at UCSD have discovered how bacterial messenger RNA is unfolded to be read by the cell's protein-making machinery. The study reveals essential factors required for this process and provides insights into developing novel antibiotics targeting these vulnerabilities.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalMolecular Cell·DateApr 6, 2006

The future of tropical forests

New projections suggest that deforestation rates will decrease as population growth slows, allowing a larger area of tropical forests to remain. The study's findings provide hope that many tropical forest species can survive the current wave of deforestation and human population growth.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalBiotropica·DateApr 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.

Possible brain hormone may unlock mystery of hibernation

Researchers identified a liver-derived protein complex as the first essential brain signal governing seasonal adaptation in hibernating animals. This discovery may pave the way toward clinical therapies that protect humans from lethal diseases like hypothermia and ischemia.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateApr 6, 2006

AIUM honors ultrasound pioneers

The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine presented notable awards to Lawrence Platt, David Sahn, Marie De Lange, Genevieve Berger, and Kurt Jaeger for their groundbreaking contributions to diagnostic ultrasound. The honors recognize individuals who have significantly advanced the field through research, education, and innovation.

SourceAmerican Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine·DateApr 6, 2006

New Cassini image shows "A" ring contains more debris than once thought

A new Cassini image shows the A ring contains more debris than previously reported, indicating a higher opacity of up to 35 percent. The particles in the ring are trapped in ever-changing clusters that are regularly torn apart and reassembled by gravitational forces.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 6, 2006

Crucial site for endangered frogs and birds saved

A coalition of conservation groups protected a vital 1,600-acre site in Colombia's Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta massif, safeguarding the last breeding ground of the Globally Endangered Santa Marta Parakeet. The site also provides habitat for 18 bird species and five threatened amphibians.

SourceConservation International·DateApr 6, 2006

MIT research links cancer, inflammatory disease

Researchers applied engineering tools to study cell decision-making in cancer and inflammatory diseases. The studies uncovered a surprising link between the two, suggesting new treatment approaches for debilitating conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell·DateApr 5, 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.

Late-breaking news in understanding and treating neurological disorders

Researchers developed a new PET scan technique to detect Alzheimer's disease plaques and tangles, while the ApoE gene was found to significantly increase stroke risk in Asian populations. Foramen ovale closure surgery also showed promise in reducing migraine headaches in patients with an open heart opening.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateApr 5, 2006

First link of oral bacteria and preterm birth found in human

Researchers discovered a link between oral bacteria and preterm birth, finding Bergeyella bacteria in the amniotic fluid of pregnant women. This pilot study suggests that oral bacteria may play a role in premature deliveries, which can lead to health challenges for babies and increased medical costs.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of Clinical Microbiology·DateApr 5, 2006

Genentech donates $2.5 million to Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Genentech's $2.5 million donation will support the formation of a new center at CSHL, focusing on preserving and disseminating the history of molecular biology and biotechnology. The facility will house archival collections from Nobel laureates and leaders in the industry.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·DateApr 5, 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.

Parents need better education to reduce drug overdoses in feverish children

A recent review of studies found that parents' knowledge about fever treatment is poor, leading to increased overdoses of paracetamol and ibuprofen in children. The study suggests that education programs for parents can help improve their attitudes and practices towards treating childhood fevers.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalJournal of Advanced Nursing·DateApr 5, 2006

New mechanism found for neurodegenerative effects of amphetamines in mice

Researchers discovered that amphetamines are converted into free radicals in the brain, leading to long-term neurodegeneration and oxidative stress. The study suggests a novel mechanism for how amphetamines may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateApr 5, 2006

Rice tapped for model programs merging teaching, research

Rice professors Bonnie Bartel and Jennifer West have received HHMI grants to develop innovative programs combining undergraduate teaching and research. Their programs aim to engage students in science through hands-on activities, laboratory tours, and peer-reviewed research publications.

SourceRice University·DateApr 5, 2006

HHMI names 20 new million-dollar professors

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) has named 20 new million-dollar professors to improve undergraduate science education. These educators, selected for their teaching talent and research expertise, will receive grants to design engaging programs that promote diversity and hands-on learning experiences.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·DateApr 5, 2006
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.

'Scent of a woman' tells male redback spiders to find a mate

Researchers at the University of Toronto found that male Australian redback spiders develop faster in areas with high female populations, allowing them to find mates before other males. This adaptation enables them to optimize their reproductive success despite intense competition for limited mating opportunities.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 5, 2006

New 'wrinkle' in Botox treatment could lead to lower doses, better safety

Researchers have discovered a novel way to increase the potency of botulinum neurotoxin treatments, allowing for lower doses and enhanced cosmetic benefits. The new approach may reduce the risk of complications associated with frequent injections, making Botox safer and more accessible.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 5, 2006
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.

UI research aims to help patients with spinal cord injury

A new study by the University of Iowa found that early intervention with electrical stimulation can significantly reduce bone mineral density loss in SCI patients. The therapy, which involves delivering defined doses of load to targeted muscles and bones, was shown to improve bone health and muscle strength.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalJournal of Neurophysiology·DateApr 5, 2006

Explaining how the brain recognizes faces

Researchers propose a theory that the fusiform face area (FFA) recognizes faces based on selective processing of shapes of facial features. Their computational model and experimental studies support this idea, suggesting that face recognition can be achieved by hierarchical shape detectors.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateApr 5, 2006

Blind mice recover visual responses using protein from green algae

Researchers at the NIH successfully introduced a light-absorbing protein into mouse retinal cells, enabling them to send signals to the brain and regain some visual function. The study suggests that this approach could be used to treat various forms of retinal degenerative eye diseases.

SourceNIH/National Eye Institute·JournalNeuron·DateApr 5, 2006

Fish oil may help protect against retinal degenerative diseases

Researchers have discovered that docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in retinal pigment epithelial cells plays a crucial role in protecting photoreceptor cells from damage. The findings suggest that DHA may help slow or halt the progression of diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa and Usher's syndrome.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalTrends in Neurosciences·DateApr 5, 2006

Fish on acid: Hagfish cope with high levels of CO2

Researchers discovered that hagfish can regulate their acid-base balance and have a greater capacity for rapid pH compensation than any other fish studied. The hagfish's ability to maintain a stable body temperature and salt concentration in its blood enables it to cope with high levels of CO2.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateApr 5, 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.

Corporations seeking to increase the security of pensions while limiting investor risks

Companies like IBM are shifting pension investment risks to employees through defined contribution plans, but Robert C. Merton argues that without corporate oversight, these plans may not provide long-term security for investors. Merton emphasizes the importance of corporate responsibility in ensuring the financial stability of DC plans.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalJournal of Applied Corporate Finance·DateApr 5, 2006

Ovary removal surgery elevates risk for dementia

A study published by Mayo Clinic researchers found that surgical ovary removal elevates the risk of dementia in younger women, possibly due to insufficient estrogen. Women who underwent the surgery at a younger age may be more susceptible to cognitive decline, highlighting the need for ongoing hormone replacement therapy.

SourceMayo Clinic·DateApr 5, 2006

New survey reveals women's attitudes about feminine health

Women are taking control of their feminine health, but many remain embarrassed about discussing sensitive topics. The survey found that one in four women admit to not being honest with their gynecologists about their habits, with specific issues including smoking and exercise.

SourceRobin Leedy & Associates, Inc.·DateApr 5, 2006
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.

Oh, what a feeling - dancing on the ceiling!

Researchers develop polymer tape to simulate insect adhesive pads, revealing optimal leg attachment forces on smooth ceilings. The findings inspire wall and ceiling walking machines with micropatterned polymer feet.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateApr 5, 2006

Researchers identify potential targets for new pain therapies

A team of researchers has identified a potassium channel, Kv4.2, that plays a crucial role in pain plasticity and may be a primary target for new pain therapies. The study suggests that increasing the activity of this channel or decreasing the activity of related ERK molecule could lead to analgesic effects.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateApr 5, 2006

Sociologists find low self-esteem at 11 predicts drug dependency at 20

Researchers found that low self-esteem in children aged 11 is linked to an increased risk of developing drug dependence by age 20. The study also highlights the importance of identifying at-risk children and intervening early to prevent addiction.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalJournal of Child & Adolescent Substance Abuse·DateApr 5, 2006
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.

Stanford scientist to discuss new approach to treating hepatitis C virus

Stanford scientist Sarnow discusses new approach to treating hepatitis C virus using microRNA, a small fragment of RNA found in the liver that is necessary for viral growth and reproduction. The approach aims to lower microRNA levels in the liver without affecting liver function, potentially leading to improved treatment outcomes.

SourceStanford Medicine·DateApr 5, 2006

Aha! Favors the prepared mind

A new study reveals that mental preparation involving inward focus of attention promotes insight even prior to the presentation of a problem. Brain activity patterns before problem solving, as measured by EEG and fMRI, differ between those who solve problems with insight and methodically.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 5, 2006

Prenatal nicotine exposure reduces breathing response of newborns...

A study by University of Arizona researchers found that prenatal nicotine exposure reduces the ability of newborns to respond to low blood oxygen, leading to prolonged and potentially lethal apneas. The study used a pump implant to simulate nicotine exposure in pregnant rats, mimicking the situation observed in smoking pregnant women.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateApr 5, 2006