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Science News for May 16, 2006


Long airplane flight does not appear to increase risk of blood clots

A study by William D. Toff and colleagues found no significant difference in markers of coagulation activation between long-haul flights and controlled environments. The researchers tested the effects of hypobaric and hypoxia on healthy volunteers, but found that prolonged sitting did not enhance clot formation.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMay 16, 2006

No link between low air-pressure on long-haul flights and DVT says new study

A new study conducted by researchers at the University of Leicester found no evidence that low air pressure and low oxygen levels during long-haul flights increase the risk of blood clots. The study, which included 73 healthy volunteers, assessed the effects of hypobaric and hypoxia on markers of blood clotting.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalJAMA·DateMay 16, 2006

Cholesterol-lowering drugs not associated with increased breast cancer risk

A study of over 156,000 post-menopausal women found that taking hydrophobic statins was associated with a 18% decreased incidence of breast cancer. However, no association was found between statin use and breast cancer risk in general. Further research is needed to confirm this finding.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMay 16, 2006

New name, enduring mission

The Association for Psychological Science has changed its name from American Psychological Society to better clarify its scientific mission. The new name emphasizes the organization's commitment to psychological science and human welfare, as well as its growing international presence.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·DateMay 16, 2006
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Chimpanzee study reveals genome variation hotspots

A recent study has identified copy number variants in chimpanzees that are comparable to those found in humans, indicating regions of the genome may be inherently unstable in both species. This research provides valuable insights into genetic diversity and adaptations in our nearest relatives.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 16, 2006
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New study reveals signaling pathways required for expansion of pancreas stem cells

A new study discovered that BMP4 signaling is necessary and sufficient for the proliferation of pancreas progenitor cells, leading to an increase in Id expression. The researchers also found that inhibition of BMP4 results in a decrease in proliferating duct cells and an increase in the expression of a bHLH protein-dependent factor PAX6.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateMay 16, 2006

Promising cell protein may play role in infection and dry eye

Researchers discover interaction between PAI-2 and Rb family proteins, linked to cell differentiation, cancer prognosis, and inflammation on the surface of the eye. The study may provide new insights into molecular mechanisms of PAI-2 expression in human corneal and conjunctival epithelial cells.

SourceTemple University·JournalCell Death and Differentiation·DateMay 16, 2006

Small molecule interactions were central to the origin of life

Shapiro's theory suggests that small molecule interactions were central to the origin of life, rather than self-replication. He introduces the concept of a 'driver' reaction linked to a free energy source to convert an unorganized mixture into a self-regulated metabolic network.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalThe Quarterly Review of Biology·DateMay 16, 2006

Coral reef reveals history of fickle weather in the central Pacific

The study reveals that during periods of warm weather globally, the Pacific was cold and dry. Conversely, during cold weather elsewhere, the Pacific experienced warm and stormy conditions. This ancient climate data informs modern concerns about climate change in the Pacific region.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalCurrent Anthropology·DateMay 16, 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.

And the mountain moved: Scientists study how Heart Mountain shifted

Researchers used a mathematical model to explain the shifting of Heart Mountain. The dikes in the rock filled with hot lava created extreme fluid pressures, leading to the mountain's movement. Dr. Einat Aharonov and Dr. Mark Anders' study offers new insights into this phenomenon.

SourceAmerican Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science·JournalGeology·DateMay 16, 2006

Women's career choices influenced more by culture than biology

A study of 167 women in IT across four countries reveals that cultural factors, such as societal messages and family dynamics, play a significant role in shaping career choices. The research suggests that recognizing diversity may lead to more opportunities for women, and challenges traditional assumptions about work-life balance.

SourcePenn State·JournalInformation Resources Management Journal·DateMay 16, 2006

Exxon Valdez oil found in tidal feeding grounds of ducks, sea otters

A recent study by researchers at the National Marine Fisheries Service has found significant amounts of Exxon Valdez oil buried in sand and silt in tidal feeding grounds of sea otters, ducks, and other wildlife. This discovery highlights the potential long-term impact of oil spills on marine ecosystems.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMay 16, 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.

Intimate partner violence found widespread

A study by Group Health researchers found that intimate partner violence (IPV) affects nearly half of women, with recent IPV having a particularly devastating impact on their physical and mental health. The study also revealed that IPV is an equal-opportunity problem, affecting women from all walks of life.

SourceGroup Health Research Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMay 16, 2006

Study reports findings on lung cancer death rates in never smokers

A study of 940,000 adults found similar lung cancer death rates for men and women, but higher rates among African-American women. Never-smoking African-Americans may have a higher risk of lung cancer mortality compared to non-smoking whites.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMay 16, 2006

Helping hands

A study by Association for Psychological Science found that pairs can coordinate through haptic interactions, leading to improved performance and development of cooperative strategies. The researchers speculate that this capacity is a fundamental human ability used in various daily activities.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateMay 16, 2006

Some people would give life or limb not to be fat

A Yale University study found that 15-30% of respondents would give up major life sacrifices to avoid being obese. Thinner individuals held stronger implicit and explicit negative attitudes towards fat people, while obese individuals only exhibited an implicit anti-fat bias.

SourceYale University·JournalObesity·DateMay 16, 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.

Rheumatoid arthritis drug linked to serious infections and cancers

A study found that patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with TNF-blocking antibodies are at a higher risk of developing cancer and serious infections. The drugs, which were previously thought to be safe, may interfere with the body's ability to fight off infection and cancer.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJAMA·DateMay 16, 2006

Pak1 expression increases tamoxifen resistance in breast cancer patients

A study of 403 premenopausal women with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer found that increased Pak1 expression correlates with reduced sensitivity to tamoxifen therapy, leading to decreased survival rates. Researchers suggest targeting Pak1 as a potential strategy to improve treatment response in breast cancer.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMay 16, 2006

Lilly Foundation gift to Indiana University Cancer Center

The IU Cancer Center will attract top-tier scientists and physicians with the gift, enhancing its national reputation as a leader in cancer research and patient care. The center's research and clinical programs are expanding, and partnerships are increasing to achieve goals.

SourceIndiana University·DateMay 16, 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.

Intimate partner violence — the hidden burden is common

A study of over 3,400 women reveals that intimate partner violence (IPV) is highly prevalent and chronic, lasting more than 5 years in some cases. IPV was found to have significant health effects on women, including depression, physical symptoms, and social isolation.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMay 16, 2006

Lost in thought: Brain research

A recent study published in Neuron found that brain areas related to self-awareness are inactive when individuals focus on external tasks, and only active when both sensory experience and self-awareness are present. This suggests a new perspective on the role of self-awareness in perception.

SourceAmerican Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science·JournalNeuron·DateMay 16, 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.

Our memory wears rose-colored glasses

The study highlights that self-defining memories are emotionally complex and significant to individuals. Researcher Wendy-Jo Wood found that people tend to downplay negative events while emphasizing positive ones, which contributes to a more optimistic view of their experiences.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalJournal of Personality·DateMay 16, 2006

Acetaminophen safe to use after heart attack but doesn't protect the heart

A recent study found that acetaminophen is safe to use after a heart attack, but it does not offer any protection for the heart. The researchers tested the effects of acetaminophen on animals with induced heart attacks and found no significant impact on blood flow, heart muscle damage, or ventricular function.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateMay 16, 2006

First Canadian professorship in melanoma research established

A new professorship in melanoma research has been established at the Cross Cancer Institute in Edmonton, Alberta. The endowment fund, valued at $1 million, will support long-term commitment to researching key pathways in melanoma development that could lead to potential targets for prevention and therapy.

SourceAlberta Cancer Board·DateMay 16, 2006

NASA looks at hurricane cloud tops for windy clues

By analyzing cloud height and rainfall patterns, NASA scientists can estimate whether a hurricane's surface winds will strengthen or weaken. Rainfall from clouds extending up to 9 miles high indicates stronger winds.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 16, 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.

Other highlights in the May 17 JNCI

A new study found that postmenopausal women who use statins have the same risk of invasive breast cancer as those who do not. Hydrophobic statins were associated with an 18% decreased risk of breast cancer, but individual statin associations warrant further research.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMay 16, 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.

Putting healthcare dollars into the 'right' prevention services

A series of articles ranks preventive services by their cost-effectiveness and population health benefits, highlighting influenza vaccines and colorectal cancer screening as top priorities. The studies show that these services can save thousands of years of life and prevent deaths, with significant potential for improving overall healt...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMay 16, 2006

Cultural approach is key to tackling obesity

A cultural approach is essential in tackling obesity, with women generally basing their ideal weight on cultural criteria. Obesity is defined in positive terms by Black Americans, relating it to attractiveness, while White women define it negatively, associating it with unattractive and socially undesirable body image.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Advanced Nursing·DateMay 16, 2006

Plant protection from cold decoded

Plant biologist Jian Kang Zhu discovered that the high expression of osmotically responsive gene 1 (HOS1) acts as a biochemical gate to cut off the plant's cold protection. The HOS1 protein interacts with ICE1, kicking off a genetic cascade that provides cold protection proteins.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 16, 2006

Indiana U researchers closer to finding a genetic cause of hearing loss in aging

A study of 50 pairs of fraternal twins with hearing loss identified a specific region of DNA, DFNA18 on chromosome 3, that may contain an important locus for hearing loss in the general population. The findings suggest variation in genes within this region could lead to differences in susceptibility to hearing loss.

SourceIndiana University·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateMay 16, 2006