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Science News for May 23, 2006


Living in poverty associated with increased risk for teens to be overweight

A new study reveals that living in poverty is associated with a higher risk of being overweight among US teenagers. The research analyzed data from four cross-sectional surveys and found that the disparity in overweight status across socioeconomic strata widened with increasing age, particularly among adolescents aged 15 to 17 years.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMay 23, 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.

Research reveals control of potent immune regulator

The study found that pro-inflammatory cytokines increase positive regulators of IFNg production while shutting down negative regulators like TGFb, which lowers IFNg levels. This fine balance ensures healthy NK cell activity and prevents autoimmune diseases and cancer.

SourceOhio State University·JournalImmunity·DateMay 23, 2006

Live via satellite: Scientists to track Caspian Sea sturgeons

Scientists track Caspian Sea sturgeons using satellite technology for the first time, providing critical data for conservation efforts. The study aims to learn more about species biology and behavior, challenging long-held assumptions and contributing to better management of endangered populations.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·DateMay 23, 2006

New genetic test for breast cancer

A new clinical trial called TAILORx aims to determine whether chemotherapy is necessary for women with early-stage breast cancer. The study will use OncotypeDXTM, a genetic test that estimates a patient's risk of recurrence and predicts treatment outcomes.

SourceRubenstein Associates, Inc.·DateMay 23, 2006
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Poor adolescents more likely to be overweight today than 30 years ago

The prevalence of overweight adolescents has doubled in the past three decades, with poor teens experiencing faster weight gain and higher rates of physical inactivity. Increasing sweetened beverage consumption is a significant contributing factor, particularly among poor adolescents.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalJAMA·DateMay 23, 2006

New approach to vaccine development provides potent, long-lasting immunity

Researchers have developed a new vaccine approach using lentivirus that induces a more potent and long-lasting immune response compared to other viral vectors. The approach targets skin dendritic cells, which play a crucial role in recognizing foreign bodies and triggering an immune response.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalImmunity·DateMay 23, 2006

Researchers release draft final report on New Orleans levees

A 700-page report suggests key mechanisms for levee failures in the US, built upon data and field investigations supported by National Science Foundation grants. The Berkeley-led team's findings aim to improve emergency planning and response strategies for natural disasters.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateMay 23, 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.

Robotic joystick reveals how brain controls movement

The study suggests that motor learning involves different time scales and implies that slow learning is key to maintaining motor skills in stroke patients. The research team hopes to tailor therapy strategies to target slow-learning systems, improving recovery of muscle control after brain injuries.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 23, 2006

Genetic tug of war determines sexual differentiation

Researchers found that the Wnt4 and Fgf9 genes are initially balanced before Sry triggers a cascade leading to testis formation. In contrast, an imbalance between these signals determines sex determination in vertebrates.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 23, 2006

Beyond the hype and the scare stories, how safe are nanoparticles?

A recent study calculates the risks of nanotechnology, emphasizing the need for rational work to understand and minimize adverse effects. The research highlights the importance of managing exposure to manufactured nano-sized particles, particularly through respiratory or skin routes.

SourceElsevier·JournalNano Today·DateMay 23, 2006

When it comes to privacy, gender matters

A study found that nearly a quarter of men and women consider minimal video capture a privacy violation, with women expressing greater concern than men. Women were also more likely to be uneasy about their images being viewed at off-campus locations or in public places.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalHuman-Computer Interaction·DateMay 23, 2006

Proteus mirabilis will give up its genetic secrets at ASM meeting

Researchers have gained insights into the genetic mechanisms of Proteus mirabilis, a bacterium causing kidney stones and complicated urinary tract infections. The complete genome sequence, including 3,693 genes and 4.063 megabases of DNA, will help scientists identify potential targets for new vaccines.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateMay 23, 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.

Study finds no link between marijuana use and lung cancer

A recent study by the American Thoracic Society found that marijuana smoking does not increase the risk of lung cancer or head and neck cancers. Heavy marijuana users, who smoked over 22,000 joints, did not have an increased risk of developing cancer.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 23, 2006

Diabetes, heart disease can herald early GI cancers

Research suggests that diabetes may be a marker of early pancreatic cancer, with studies showing increased rates of colon, pancreatic, and esophageal cancers in patients with diabetes. Additionally, women with type 2 diabetes are at higher risk of developing colorectal adenomas and advanced adenoma.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·DateMay 23, 2006

MIT 'seeing machine' offers hope to blind

The MIT 'seeing machine' allows visually challenged people to see images, videos, and text through a desktop device. In a pilot clinical trial, 60% of participants accurately interpreted visual language and navigated a virtual environment with the help of the device.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Optometry·DateMay 23, 2006

Treatment for anorexia nervosa appears to have improved outcome

Research reveals improved treatment outcomes for individuals with anorexia nervosa, including increased fertility and reduced long-term mortality. The study highlights the importance of biologically driven avoidance behavior in the development of the disorder.

SourceWiley·JournalEuropean Eating Disorders Review·DateMay 23, 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.

Benefits of screening colonoscopy in very elderly may be limited

A study found that colonoscopy screening in very elderly patients results in only a small gain in life expectancy, suggesting the benefit may be smaller than previously believed. The prevalence of advanced neoplasia increased with age, but the average extension of life expectancy was much lower in the elderly groups.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateMay 23, 2006

US ports vulnerable to devastating earthquake damage

A new project led by Georgia Tech aims to develop strategies to help ports manage seismic risk more effectively. The team will evaluate methods of preventing damage using large-scale tests and investigate applying similar approaches to managing risks from other natural hazards.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateMay 23, 2006

Mary-Claire King to receive the 2006 Weizmann Women & Science Award

Dr. Mary-Claire King has made significant contributions to the understanding of inherited breast cancer, discovering the BRCA1 gene that predisposes individuals to this widespread disease. Her work also explores human genetic diversity and evolution, as well as the application of genomics to human rights problems.

SourceAmerican Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science·DateMay 23, 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.

'Mercury sponge' technology goes from lab to market

The SAMMS technology can selectively remove metal contaminants without creating hazardous waste or by-products, with initial targets including coal-fired power plants and municipal facilities. In tests, 99.9% of mercury was successfully removed from simulated wastewater, meeting EPA discharge limits.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateMay 23, 2006

Early treatment favored for multiple sclerosis

Research suggests that initiating MS therapy with an immunomodulating drug as soon as possible following a diagnosis can significantly reduce future disease activity and progression of disability. Studies have shown that delaying treatment is associated with more progression of disability and larger volumes of disease damage.

SourceNational Multiple Sclerosis Society·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateMay 23, 2006

Selenium-protein deficiency raises prostate cancer risk

Research using transgenic mice found that lower levels of selenoproteins accelerate prostate cancer development, highlighting the importance of selenium-containing proteins in preventing cancer. Further research is needed to understand how selenium supplements can maximize benefits.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 23, 2006

Late-breaking Digestive Disease Week news

A phase 3 clinical study found that nearly half of patients with advanced illness experienced laxation within four hours of receiving methylnaltrexone, and over 70% responded by the end of the first week. The treatment also showed no diminishment of analgesia due to medication.

SourceEdelman Public Relations, New York·DateMay 23, 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.

Sleeping less linked to weight gain

A large study of 68,183 middle-aged women found that those who slept 5 hours or less per night were more likely to experience major weight gain and become obese over 16 years. The researchers didn't find a link between sleep duration and physical activity levels.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 23, 2006

DOE JGI finishes 100th microbial genome

The DOE JGI has completed its 100th microbial genome sequencing, marking a significant achievement in the field of microbiology. This milestone allows researchers to explore and expand their understanding of microorganisms' metabolic profiles and environmental implications.

SourceDOE/Joint Genome Institute·DateMay 23, 2006

U-M scientists target key cells and signals that trigger pulmonary fibrosis

Researchers at U-M aim to develop new treatments for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) by understanding the role of fibrocytes and signaling pathways involved in the disease. They found that lipid mediators called cysteinyl leukotrienes may be responsible for inappropriate activation of fibrocytes.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateMay 23, 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.

Characteristics of caregivers may increase symptoms in dementia patients

A study of nearly 6,000 dementia patients and their caregivers found that younger, less educated, and more depressed caregivers were associated with higher levels of behavioral symptoms. Understanding the link between caregiver characteristics and patient behaviors may lead to more effective treatment options.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMay 23, 2006

Alcohol abuse increases the risk of suffering from pneumonia

A study published in Chest Journal found that alcohol abuse increases the risk of pneumonia, with decreased immune system activity being a key factor. The consequences of this study could have a significant impact on a high number of people, particularly in Spain where alcohol is a major cause of death.

SourceIDIBAPS - Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer·DateMay 23, 2006
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Virtual colon screenings examined

Computed Tomographic Colonography (CTC) screening found extra-colonic abnormalities in approximately 16 percent of asymptomatic patients. The most common findings were coronary artery calcifications and non-calcified pulmonary nodules. CTC was also compared to optical colonoscopy (OC) for detecting polyps, with comparable accuracy in i...

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·DateMay 23, 2006

How did continents split? Geology study shows new picture

A new study provides an explanation for continental plate breakups, showing that they often occur along preexisting lines of weakness created during earlier collisions. The research uses geochemical fingerprinting to demonstrate this principle, shedding light on the history of the Rheic Ocean.

SourceOhio University·JournalGeology·DateMay 23, 2006

ST. John's Wort relieves bladder pain in animal models

Researchers found that St. John's Wort increased bladder contraction intervals in rats with bladder inflammation, reducing bladder hyperactivity and associated pain. The study suggests that the herbal supplement may be a viable treatment option for women suffering from interstitial cystitis, affecting 700,000 Americans.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·DateMay 23, 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.

APS physics tip sheet #62

Researchers have designed a new quantum processor core that keeps qubits active all the time, enabling faster calculations and making quantum computers more efficient. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in fields like molecular biology, biophysics, and materials science.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 23, 2006

RNA interference stops colon cancer spread in mice

Researchers used small interfering RNAs to block the spread of human colorectal cancer cells in laboratory mice, achieving a major reduction in liver cancer growth. The treatment also showed potential for increased cancer cell killing when combined with standard chemotherapeutic agents.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalAnnals of Surgery·DateMay 23, 2006

Botox: Its not just for wrinkles anymore

Researchers found Botox injections to improve urinary tract symptoms and quality of life in men with enlarged prostates. The treatment reduced prostate size through apoptosis, improving urine flow and decreasing residual urine.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·DateMay 23, 2006

New techniques ease colon cancer procedures for patients

A novel colonoscope using the NeoGuide System reduces looping and discomfort during colonoscopies, while entonox sedation provides effective pain relief and faster recovery. These advancements increase rates of colorectal cancer screening and improve patient satisfaction.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·DateMay 23, 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.

Penn researcher uses computer-based screening to help identify domestic violence victims

A new study finds that computer-based screenings increase the odds of identifying domestic violence victims, but don't guarantee that it will be addressed during emergency department encounters. The study found that women are more likely to disclose their domestic violence situations to clinicians who use computer-based screenings, and...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateMay 23, 2006

U of M researchers find immune-activating cells in intestines

Researchers at the University of Minnesota found a tiny population of cells in the intestine that signal T-cells to fight infections. This discovery may help study and develop treatments for diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalImmunity·DateMay 23, 2006