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Science News for December 15, 2006


Fluid displacement from legs to neck can lead to obstructive sleep apnea

Research found that fluid displacement from the legs to the neck can narrow soft tissue around the throat and increase airflow resistance in healthy individuals, predisposing them to obstructive sleep apnea. The study involved measuring leg fluid volume, neck circumference, and airflow resistance in 11 non-obese subjects, with results ...

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateDec 15, 2006
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study explains how NSAIDs halt cancer growth

Scientists have discovered that NSAIDs induce the MDA-7/IL-24 gene, which kills cancer cells while sparing healthy ones. This finding could lead to the development of targeted cancer treatments.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalCancer Research·DateDec 15, 2006

UVA receives training grant for new kidney disease researchers

The University of Virginia Health System has received a $583,000 NIH training grant to train four new researchers in kidney disease research annually. This multidisciplinary program aims to address the growing problem of kidney disease by equipping researchers with skills to translate lab research to clinical practice.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·DateDec 15, 2006

Common cold virus leads to death in lung transplant patients

A study published by the American Thoracic Society found that human rhinovirus, a leading cause of common colds, can lead to progressive respiratory failure and death in immunosuppressed lung transplant patients. The virus was found to infect both upper and lower airways, contradicting previous assumptions.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateDec 15, 2006

New hope for wrinkles

Researchers at the University of New South Wales have developed a cost-effective process for manufacturing GGC, a precursor to antioxidant glutathione. The new additive is set to be used in various products, including skincare creams and supplements, with significant market potential.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·DateDec 15, 2006

Researchers devise safer way to dose life-saving heart drug

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have developed a new formula to determine the initial dose of digoxin for patients with congestive heart failure. The formula uses blood digoxin levels, kidney function, and ideal body weight to provide more accurate dosing recommendations, reducing the risk of overdose or underdose.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateDec 15, 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.

Researchers show surprising interaction between genes, gender and hypertension

Researchers found that genetic variations impact blood pressure differently in men and women, suggesting a need to consider gender when diagnosing and treating hypertension. The study identified six genes with varying frequency of variation between sexes and extreme blood pressure levels.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Hypertension·DateDec 15, 2006

'Clumping' protein linked to return of ovarian cancer

Women with high levels of NAC-1 protein in their ovarian cancer tissue are at increased risk of rapid and fatal recurrence. Researchers suggest testing for NAC-1 may identify patients most at risk for recurrence, guiding doctors and patients to greater vigilance and extended therapy.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 2006

Linchpin discovered in insulin metabolism

Scientists have discovered a gene called 'Titch' that plays a key role in the metabolism of insulin in flies and may also be relevant to humans. The finding has implications for the development of new drugs for Type II diabetes.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature·DateDec 15, 2006

Young women unfamiliar with safety, effectiveness of IUD

A recent study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology reveals that nearly half of young pregnant women are unaware of the safety and effectiveness of modern intrauterine devices (IUD). The study suggests that counseling about IUDs could help these women make informed decisions about contraception.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateDec 15, 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.

Researchers find two biomarkers with potential to predict breast cancer spread

Scientists have discovered two protein biomarkers associated with breast cancer spread, which could help predict patient outcomes and guide treatment decisions. The study found that overexpression of one protein and underexpression of another were highly accurate in identifying patients at risk of metastasis.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateDec 15, 2006

Drug treatment slows macular vision loss in diabetics

A new study found that a commonly used drug to slow central vision loss can also treat diabetic retinopathy, a common complication of diabetes. The treatment showed promise in improving reading ability and reducing swelling in the retina by targeting vascular endothelial growth factor, a protein that promotes unwanted blood vessel growth.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmerican Journal of Ophthalmology·DateDec 15, 2006

New report highlights aromatase inhibitor side effects

A new report by Breast Cancer Action analyzes 612 women's responses to an online survey, finding nearly all reported side effects and 30% discontinued use due to intolerable side effects. The most common side effects included hot flashes, bone pain, and insomnia.

SourceBreast Cancer Action·DateDec 15, 2006

Pair of microRNA molecules controls major oncogene in most common leukemia

Two microRNAs, miR-29 and miR-181, have been found to control the expression of the TCL1 oncogene responsible for aggressive forms of B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia. High levels of these miRNAs suppress TCL1 expression, while low levels correlate with more aggressive cancer.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateDec 15, 2006
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.

Molecular Solomon's knot

Researchers successfully produce a molecular Solomon knot, consisting of two doubly intertwined rings, through careful selection of metal ions and solvents. The study showcases the potential for self-organization in systems with individual molecular components not chemically bound to each other.

SourceWiley·DateDec 15, 2006

ESRF helps reveal the origin of the Solar System

Researchers analyze cometary material from Stardust spacecraft, improving understanding of early solar system chemistry and mixing. ESRF's X-ray beams help determine element distribution without damaging particles.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalScience·DateDec 15, 2006