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Science News Archive December 2006 - Page 11


Page 11 of 13

Top awards go to Williams College physics professor William Wootters

Professor Wootters was awarded the International Quantum Communications Award and the APS Prize to a Faculty Member for Research in an Undergraduate Institution. His research on quantum teleportation has been widely cited, and he is recognized for his engagement of undergraduate students in physics research.

SourceWilliams College·DateDec 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.

Smokers risk more painful and progressive osteoarthritis

A recent study published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases found that smokers are more likely to experience severe cartilage loss and knee pain due to osteoarthritis. Smokers were also significantly more likely to report greater pain severity than non-smokers.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases·DateDec 6, 2006

Prescribing information for kidney disease far too vague

Chronic kidney disease affects a significant portion of the UK population, particularly elderly individuals taking multiple medications. Healthcare professionals require specific guidance on using drugs that can cause or be altered by kidney disease, as 'use with caution' advice is often insufficient.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalDrug and Therapeutics Bulletin·DateDec 6, 2006

Brain wave changes in adolescence signal reorganization of the brain

Research suggests that adolescent brain maturation is associated with synaptic pruning, a process that eliminates weak connections between neurons. Delta wave activity declines during adolescence, beginning at around age 11, with a 25% decrease by age 14, and is related to age but not physical growth or sexual maturation.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateDec 6, 2006

Two-slice-touch rule reliable when diagnosing meniscal tears

A study by the University of Wisconsin Medical School and Hospital found that the two-slice-touch rule increases the accuracy of diagnosing meniscal tears. The positive predictive value for diagnosing a meniscal tear increased from 91% to 94%, making it a reliable tool for diagnosis.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateDec 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.

Structure essential for brain remodeling identified

The study found that recycling endosomes transport cargo needed to grow new synapses, leading to advances in understanding Alzheimer's disease, autism, and age-related memory loss. The discovery may lead to potential treatments for these conditions by targeting critical cellular processes.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalNeuron·DateDec 6, 2006

Immigrants of a feather don't necessarily flock together

A new study reveals that immigrants' neighborhood choices are largely determined by their partners, contradicting the traditional notion of clustering with countrymen. The research found that those who partner outside their native group are less likely to live near their countrymen.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalUrban Geography·DateDec 6, 2006

Study in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology

A recent study published in The Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that palifermin clearance and tolerability are not affected by renal function. No dose adjustment is indicated for patients with impaired kidney function, allowing the drug to be used without restrictions.

SourceSAGE·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Pharmacology·DateDec 6, 2006

5-year study shows Gleevec's potency against chronic myeloid leukemia

A five-year study has shown that Gleevec's potency against chronic myeloid leukemia, with only 5% of patients dying from the disease during the study period. The drug produced few significant side effects, particularly after the initial two years of treatment.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 6, 2006

Changes in brain density can help predict schizophrenia

A study found that monitoring grey matter density over time using brain scans could help early detection of individuals at risk for schizophrenia. The results showed a correlation between reduced grey matter density and increased risk of developing the condition.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateDec 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.

NASA research reveals climate warming reduces ocean food supply

A NASA study reveals that climate warming leads to a decline in ocean's primary food supply, phytoplankton, which is responsible for photosynthesis. This reduction affects fishery yields, marine bird populations, and carbon dioxide removal from the atmosphere.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalNature·DateDec 6, 2006

Blame our evolutionary risk of cancer on body mass

Scientists discovered that higher body mass, not lifespan, increases the risk of cancer due to telomerase expression. Rodents from various species showed a correlation between body size and telomerase activity, while human's don't express it in somatic cells, suggesting evolution prioritized cancer prevention over healing.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalAging Cell·DateDec 6, 2006

'Diabetes gene' may be linked to polycystic ovary syndrome

A new study found a genetic link between the 'diabetes gene' (calpain-10) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which affects up to five percent of females. The study suggests that specific variants of the CAPN10 gene may contribute to PCOS susceptibility, providing hope for diagnosis and treatment.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateDec 6, 2006
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Magnetic whirlpools feed Earth's magnetosphere

Researchers have discovered that giant whirlpools of electrically charged gas above the Earth inject electrified gas into the planet's magnetic environment. The whirlpools, known as Kelvin-Helmholtz instabilities, cause magnetic reconnection events that redirect plasma along new routes.

SourceEuropean Space Agency·JournalAnnales Geophysicae·DateDec 6, 2006

Functional brain imaging insights from UC San Diego grad student

A recent UCSD graduate has won an award for his work on human functional brain imaging, specifically analyzing competing Bayesian approaches for source localization. His research may lead to improvements in existing algorithms used in magnetoencephalography (MEG) and electroencephalography (EEG) techniques.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateDec 6, 2006

Rochester study rolls out RU-486 to treat uterine fibroids

A University of Rochester study published in Obstetrics and Gynecology journal found that low doses of mifepristone shrink uterine fibroid tumors and greatly improve the quality of life in women who suffer from pain and heavy bleeding. The treatment resulted in a 135% improvement in quality of life for women taking mifepristone compare...

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateDec 6, 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.

Juries reluctant to convict in rape cases in which alcohol involved

Juries are more likely to acquit defendants in rape cases where the victim was intoxicated, even if they were spiked with date rape drugs. The research found that jurors often relied on stereotypes and misunderstood the effects of Rohypnol, leading to inadequate convictions.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateDec 6, 2006

Penn researchers discover initial steps in the development of taste

Scientists have pinpointed a molecular pathway regulating the development of taste buds, with Wnt proteins playing a key role in initiating taste-bud formation and connecting them to the brain. This breakthrough sheds light on the lesser-understood sense of taste.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateDec 5, 2006

RAND study finds adolescent Asian immigrants improve their good health habits over time

A RAND Corporation study found that adolescent Asian immigrants improved their preventive health behaviors, such as physical activity and nutrition, across generations. In contrast, Latino teens showed poorer or worsening habits over time, particularly in nutrition, which may contribute to high obesity rates among the Latino community.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateDec 5, 2006

Buyer's remorse? How about not-buying remorse?

A groundbreaking study by Lisa J. Abendroth and Kristen Diehl found that consumers in limited purchasing situations initially regret non-purchases more than purchases. Over time, purchased items were regretted more if seldom used or of poor quality.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 5, 2006
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

How mammals fuel milk production may have implications for cancer

Researchers found that Akt1 is specifically required for lactating mice to synthesize sufficient milk. The protein kinase plays a critical role in glucose metabolism, which may have implications for cancer therapy. Studies suggest that the metabolic demands of lactation bear similarities to those of tumor cells.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateDec 5, 2006

Learning during sleep?

Scientists at the Max Planck Institute for Medical Research have found that the cerebral cortex actively controls memory transfer during sleep. The researchers developed a new technique to investigate this largely under-researched field, discovering a link between interneurones and the cerebral cortex.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateDec 5, 2006

Pioneering study shows richest 2 percent own half world wealth

A pioneering study reveals that the world's wealthiest individuals hold disproportionately large amounts of wealth, with the top 10% owning 85% of global assets. The richest countries in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific contribute to this concentration of wealth.

SourceUnited Nations University·DateDec 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.

Research suggests new treatment approaches for glaucoma

A new study suggests that targeting tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) may help prevent optic-nerve damage in glaucoma patients. Researchers found that blocking TNF-alpha's action with an antibody prevented loss of oligodendrocytes and retinal ganglion cells when intraocular pressure was raised.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·DateDec 5, 2006

Stretch a DNA loop, turn off proteins

Researchers at UCSD find mechanical tension can switch on/off enzymes acting on DNA, revealing new mechanism for sensing and responding to cell stresses. The study demonstrates a tiny force of one pico-Newton can alter protein activity, sparking potential applications in biotechnology.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateDec 5, 2006

Virtual reality can improve memory -- perhaps too much

A new study by Ann E. Schlosser found that virtual experiences improved people's memories of a camera's functions, but also increased false positives and created vivid internally-generated recollections.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 5, 2006

Rural students lag behind in sub-Saharan Africa

A new study by Yanhong Zhang reveals that almost 45 million students in sub-Saharan Africa were not enrolled in school in 2001, with rural students facing significant learning disadvantages. The study finds that family socio-economic status and school quality play a crucial role in the learning gaps between urban and rural students.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalComparative Education Review·DateDec 5, 2006

CSIRO demonstrates world's fastest wireless link

The CSIRO ICT Centre has demonstrated a point-to-point wireless connection of over six gigabits per second, the highest efficiency ever achieved for such a system. The technology operates at 85GHz and enables the transmission of multiple streams of DVD quality video simultaneously.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateDec 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.

Changes in dietary protein may override inherited skeletal abnormalities

A new study found that a low-protein diet can normalize bone formation and bone mass in mice with genetic disorders, while a high-protein diet may reverse skeletal syndromes. The researchers identified ATF4 as a key mediator of neurofibromin signaling, which plays a crucial role in bone development.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateDec 5, 2006

Examining molecular imaging's hot future

The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging identifies the most promising lab-based discoveries to translate into routine patient benefit. Experts emphasize the need for shared standards, innovative approaches, and cooperation among sectors to accelerate molecular imaging's translation.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateDec 5, 2006

Consumers neutral on risks, benefits of nano

A study by Rice University and UCL found that US consumers are willing to use specific nano-containing products when the potential benefits are high. The public perceives nanotechnology as less risky than everyday technologies.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 5, 2006

Former White House science advisor warns that nanotechnology's potential threatened

Dr. Neal Lane, former U.S. President Bill Clinton's science advisor, expresses concerns about the impact of limited public knowledge on nanotechnology's future success. He emphasizes the need for a coordinated effort to educate the public and provide balanced information about nanotechnology's benefits and risks.

SourceWoodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars/Science and Technology Innovation Program·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 5, 2006
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Dreaming of a nanotech Christmas: What persuades the public to embrace and buy nanotechnology?

A large-scale study found that greater popular awareness and understanding of nanotechnology increases support for research and reduces concerns. The study compared the experience of emerging nanotechnology to other new technologies, highlighting the importance of citizen-scientist dialogue in shaping public perceptions.

SourceWoodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars/Science and Technology Innovation Program·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 5, 2006

Professional fasters deep under the sea floor

Researchers propose that microorganisms can thrive in the Deep Biosphere due to natural radioactivity, offering an alternative energy source. This process, radiolysis, creates hydrogen and oxygen, providing sufficient energy for life forms to survive without surface processes.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateDec 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.

Reef sharks threatened by overfishing

Researchers warn of imminent ecological extinction for reef sharks, with populations declining at alarming rates. Immediate reductions in fishing pressure are needed to give threatened species a chance of recovery.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalCurrent Biology·DateDec 5, 2006

Research yields new insights into the cause of diabetes

A new hypothesis proposes that a deficiency in the enzyme Pancreatic Endoplasmic Reticulum Kinase (PERK) during fetal development can lead to permanent neonatal diabetes. The research found that PERK-deficient mice have impaired beta cell proliferation, differentiation, and clustering, resulting in reduced insulin production.

SourcePenn State·JournalCell Metabolism·DateDec 5, 2006

PET imaging shows young smokers quick benefit of quitting

A new study published in the Journal of Nuclear Medicine found that young smokers who quit smoking can normalize abnormal coronary artery function within a month. The PET imaging study examined the effects of smoking cessation on coronary endothelial dysfunction in healthy young male adults.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateDec 5, 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.

Low self-esteem? Avoid crime novels with surprise endings

A recent study found that people with higher self-esteem enjoy mystery stories with unexpected twists, whereas those with lower self-esteem prefer stories with confirmed endings. The study involved 84 German college students who rated their enjoyment of a mystery story with varying levels of uncertainty and confirmation.

SourceOhio State University·JournalMedia Psychology·DateDec 5, 2006

More common associations found between BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations and cancer

A study found that BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are more common in the general population than previously reported, increasing the risk of ovarian, breast, testicular, and pancreatic cancers. The study also showed that these mutations are associated with higher risks of specific types of cancer.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 5, 2006

Blacks less likely to recognize overweight and obesity, study shows

A recent study found that black Americans are less likely to recognize their own overweight or obese status compared to white Americans, despite having higher rates of excess weight. The research suggests that this misperception can have significant health consequences, including increased risk of diabetes and premature death.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateDec 5, 2006

Newts which regrow their hearts

Scientists at the Max Planck Institute discovered that newt heart cells can re-differentiate after damage, allowing for complete repair and restoration of function. The researchers found that Phospho-H3 protein marks the G2 phase of cell cycle and indicates regeneration without stem cells.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of Cell Science·DateDec 5, 2006

Children's Hospital researcher leads multipronged attack on infant leukemia

A new research effort harnesses in-depth understanding of genes and molecular pathways to develop highly specific drugs designed to kill leukemia cells while causing few or no toxic effects on normal cells. The goal is to streamline advances in molecular medicine to find new treatment options for infant leukemia.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·DateDec 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.

Making sense of sensors

Researchers Vin de Silva and Robert Ghrist use homology theory to analyze sensor networks, providing global information about coverage areas and detecting intruders. The study offers insights into designing effective sensor networks for national security measures.

SourceAmerican Mathematical Society·JournalNotices of the American Mathematical Society·DateDec 5, 2006

Cell phone use not linked to cancer risk

A large cohort study of over 420,000 cell phone users found no link between long-term or short-term cell phone use and an increased risk of brain tumors, salivary gland tumors, eye tumors, or leukemias. The study suggests that cell phone use is not associated with cancer risk.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 5, 2006

Genetic experts investigate causes of harmful metabolic disorder

A University of Cincinnati-led study aims to identify specific genes associated with metabolic syndrome. Researchers will collect data from a genetically isolated population in Croatia to understand the complex relationship between genetics and lifestyle choices that contribute to the condition.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateDec 5, 2006

Cancer drug side effect caused by cell 'pump' problem

A specific gene mutation disables the ABCG2 protein, preventing it from disposing of certain cancer drugs, leading to high levels of the drug in cells and blood, causing side effects. Clinicians can identify patients at risk by looking for this mutation, offering a way to modify treatment and reduce side effects.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 5, 2006
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Southern Ocean could slow global warming

A new climate model predicts that the Southern Ocean's absorption of heat and carbon dioxide will slow the rate of global warming. The ocean's ability to sequester heat and carbon dioxide could lead to sea level rise, but also change the chemistry of the water, making it less habitable for some marine organisms.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalJournal of Climate·DateDec 5, 2006

Dually porous glass shows promise in helping damaged bone regenerate

A new type of biocompatible glass with dual porosity has been developed to mimic the vital functions of bone, facilitating vascularization and cell adhesion. The glass has successfully tested in laboratory experiments and is being further investigated for its potential to stimulate bone regeneration.

SourceLehigh University·DateDec 5, 2006