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Science News for August 22, 2006


Dartmouth research points to protein S14 in treating breast cancer

Recent studies suggest that protein S14 plays a critical role in driving fat metabolism in breast cancer cells, making it a promising new target for cancer treatment. The protein is required for the activation of genes involved in fat production, and its removal can lead to cancer cell death.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalEndocrinology·DateAug 22, 2006

Study drug holds promise as alternative to castration for early prostate cancers

Researchers found a daily dose of 150mg bicalutamide reduced disease progression risk by 44% and overall death risk by 35% compared to radiotherapy alone. This non-castration-based therapy shows similar survival rates, potentially improving quality of life for patients unwilling to undergo castration.

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·JournalJournal of Cancer Research and Clinical Oncology·DateAug 22, 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.

NASA technology helping injured US troops

The SAM walker, developed from NASA's cable-compliant technology, aids spinal cord and traumatic brain injury patients in standing and walking. It reduces pressure on legs and allows patients to strengthen their lower body muscles, helping them regain mobility and independence.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateAug 22, 2006

Prevalence of herpes simplex virus type 2 in US decreasing

The study found a significant decrease in the age-adjusted HSV-2 seroprevalence from 17.0% in 1999-2004 to 21.0% in 1988-1994, with decreases especially concentrated among persons aged 14 to 19 years. The prevalence of genital herpes caused by HSV-1 may be increasing.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 22, 2006

Two strokes and you're out?

A new study published in Annals of Neurology found that Mexican-Americans are more likely to suffer another stroke in the first two years after living through one, and have a significantly higher risk of dying from it. The researchers emphasize the importance of secondary prevention measures for this population.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateAug 22, 2006
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.

Carbon fibers make tiny, cheap video displays

Researchers at Cornell University have developed microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) using carbon fibers, which can bend and vibrate billions of times without breaking. The new display technology has the potential to be incredibly cheap and small enough to be built into cell phones.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of Micromechanics and Microengineering·DateAug 22, 2006

Robust, paper-like Liquid Crystal Polymer (LCP) evaluated for NASA applications

Georgia Institute of Technology researchers are exploring the potential of LCP for high-frequency radio applications, antennas, and circuit boards in space. The material's unique structure provides excellent electrical performance, heat resistance, flexibility, and strength, making it a promising candidate for NASA applications.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateAug 22, 2006

Three cancer researchers win awards from ASTRO

Three cancer researchers, Asif R. Harsolia, Sandeep S. Hunjan, and Ping Zhang, have won the ASTRO Poster Recognition Award for their exceptional contributions to radiation oncology. Their work demonstrated top-notch science presented at ASTRO's Annual Meeting.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·DateAug 22, 2006

Even Superman couldn't win battle with pressure ulcers

A new study found inadequate scientific evidence on the best strategies to prevent pressure ulcers, a common condition affecting people with impaired mobility. Researchers suggest more rigorous evaluation is needed for interventions such as repositioning, support surfaces, and skin moisturizing.

SourceBaycrest Centre for Geriatric Care·JournalJAMA·DateAug 22, 2006
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.

Exposure to PCBs may reduce the effectiveness of vaccines in children

A new study found that exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in children may lower the effectiveness of vaccines against tetanus and diphtheria. PCB contamination was associated with decreased antibody responses to vaccinations at both 18 months and 7 years old.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 22, 2006

Sturgeon's general warning: stable for now, but beware

A Purdue University study found the Wabash River population of shovelnose sturgeon to be stable, but with concerns over low young fish numbers and potential for population decline. The research informs size and catch limits on the fish set to begin next summer.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Applied Ichthyology·DateAug 22, 2006

Imaging technique may prevent injury during ablation for atrial fibrillation

A new imaging procedure using intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) provides real-time monitoring of the esophagus during ablation, reducing the risk of esophageal injury. The study involved 152 patients who underwent left atrial ablation for AF and found that ICE could detect lesions on the posterior wall of the heart's left atrium.

SourceThe Reis Group·JournalHeart Rhythm·DateAug 22, 2006
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.

Scientists stop autoimmune disease without shutting off immune system

Researchers at UNC Health Care have found a way to treat pemphigus vulgaris without shutting off the immune system. They used a known compound to turn off signals that trigger skin damage, preventing blistering and other signs of the disease.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 22, 2006

Researchers develop flood-tolerant California rice

Researchers have successfully bred flood-tolerant California rice by introducing submergence tolerance genes into the crop. This breakthrough allows rice plants to survive short-term floods, benefiting rice farmers globally.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateAug 22, 2006

Blood clots can be treated by injections at home

A study led by McMaster University found that subcutaneous injections of unfractionated heparin can work as well as low-molecular weight heparin in treating venous thromboembolism, reducing hospitalization costs. This new treatment approach allows for outpatient care and may save patients up to $675 compared to traditional treatments.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalJAMA·DateAug 22, 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.

Engineers create gecko-inspired, high-friction micro-fibers

A team of researchers at UC Berkeley created synthetic micro-fibers inspired by geckos' remarkable hairs, which can hold a quarter to a glass slide inclined at an 80-degree angle. The fibers have high friction but low adhesion, making them suitable for applications such as shoe soles and car tires.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 22, 2006

Pittsburgh professor named fellow of American Society for Engineering Education

Larry J. Shuman, a professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Engineering, has been recognized as a Fellow of the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE). He was awarded this distinction after making outstanding contributions to engineering education and technology. Shuman's research focuses on improving the engineer...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateAug 22, 2006

One in 10 teenage girls have self-harmed, study shows

A study of over 6,000 teenage school pupils found that one in ten girls engage in deliberate self-harm each year. The research revealed that girls are more likely to self-harm than boys and that self-cutting is a common form of self-harm reported by teenagers.

SourceUniversity of Bath·DateAug 22, 2006

Protein clue to tailor-made antibiotics

Scientists at the University of York have discovered a critical element in the mode of action of DNase colicins, which kill cells by destroying their DNA. Understanding this mechanism could lead to the development of new, targeted antibiotics.

SourceUniversity of York·DateAug 22, 2006
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Mouse mimics chronic leukemia, will aid drug development

A new strain of mice has been developed to mimic chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a common and incurable form of cancer. The TCL-1 transgenic mouse shares molecular features with human CLL and responds to drugs, making it a valuable tool for developing new treatments.

SourceOhio State University·JournalBlood·DateAug 22, 2006

Mexican Americans have higher risk of stroke recurrence

A study examining stroke recurrence in Mexican Americans found they have a higher risk of recurrent strokes compared to non-Hispanic whites. This increased risk is associated with a higher mortality rate, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to improve outcomes.

SourceWiley·JournalAnnals of Neurology·DateAug 22, 2006

$18 million award to support Yale Center of Excellence in Genomic Science

The Yale Center of Excellence in Genomic Science will receive a five-year, $18 million grant from the National Human Genome Research Institute. The team aims to refine technologies for analyzing gene regulation and exploring inflammation, with potential applications in understanding diseases like heart disease, arthritis, and allergies.

SourceYale University·DateAug 22, 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.

UC Davis researchers move biotechnology closer to replacing electronic pacemakers

Researchers successfully delivered a gene encoding a bioengineered cell-surface protein to heart muscle cells of pigs, mimicking the combined action of several proteins involved in maintaining a normal heartbeat. The study shows promise for replacing electronic pacemakers with a more permanent and reliable biological alternative.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·DateAug 22, 2006

Scientists learn more about how roughage keeps you 'regular'

A high-fiber diet helps keep the gut healthy by increasing mucus production in gut cells. The new research reveals that roughage damages cell membranes, triggering a natural repair response that exudes lubricating mucus, easing digestion and reducing discomfort.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateAug 22, 2006

Forsyth scientists develop system for automated analysis of behavior

Researchers have developed a computer-controlled system to analyze animal behavior, allowing for rapid and efficient drug screening. The Forsyth Automated Training Apparatus enables automated control of the environment, recording animal reactions to stimuli, and providing valuable insights into cognitive abilities.

SourceForsyth Institute·JournalJournal of Neurobiology·DateAug 22, 2006

Rehydrate -- your RNA needs it

The study reveals that water molecules trapped inside RNA enzymes form hydrogen bonds with other water molecules or parts of the molecule, creating a domino effect that modifies the structure elsewhere. This network-like behavior is essential for the enzyme's activity.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 22, 2006

Shame prevented soldiers from expressing war traumas

Finnish soldiers rarely sought compensation for psychological war injuries due to a culture of shame. Researcher Ville Kivimäki's study reveals that restrictive war psychiatry created a reality where traumatic experiences were stigmatized, limiting veterans' ability to express their traumas.

SourceAcademy of Finland·DateAug 22, 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.

Snap judgments decide a face's character, psychologist finds

Researchers conducted experiments on 200 people, finding that snap judgments about faces are formed rapidly, often before rational thought can influence the reaction. The study suggests that our intuitions about attraction and trust are among the fastest and most intuitive judgments we make.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalPsychological Science·DateAug 22, 2006