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Science News Archive April 2007 - Page 8


Page 8 of 17

Bioluminescence at the service of a novel cerebral imaging technique

Scientists have developed a novel technique for in vivo imaging of neuronal function using bioluminescence, enabling the monitoring of calcium activity in neurons or the brain as a whole. This approach has been validated by recording neurons in the ellipsoid body and demonstrates its sensitivity and ability to study all brain structures.

SourceCNRS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 17, 2007

New research shows that flu is a trigger of heart attacks

Research shows that influenza epidemics are associated with a rise in deaths from heart disease and flu can trigger heart attacks. The study highlights the importance of increasing vaccination rates in people at risk of coronary heart disease.

SourceOxford University Press UK·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateApr 17, 2007
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Sleep enforces the temporal sequence in memory

Researchers found that sleep enforces the temporal sequence in memories by replaying experiences in a forward direction. This process enhances word recall when students were asked to reproduce learned words in the correct order.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 17, 2007

Other highlights from the April 18 Journal of the National Cancer Institute

A novel cell culture technique could lead to the discovery of new drugs for preventing DCIS recurrence or progression. Breast cancer cells expressing a shortened form of the HER2 gene can be treated with lapatinib, but are resistant to trastuzumab.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 17, 2007

Intravenous nanoparticle gene therapy shows activity in stage IV lung cancer

Researchers at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center have successfully delivered a cancer-suppressing gene into tumors of stage 4 lung cancer patients via an intravenously administered lipid nanoparticle. The gene, FUS1, was found to be active in metastatic non-small cell lung cancer tumors.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·DateApr 17, 2007

Breast cancer vaccine stimulates potent immune response to cancer cells

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have developed a breast cancer vaccine that successfully stimulated an anti-tumor T cell response in female mouse models, slowing or stopping the progression of breast cancer. The vaccine's effectiveness was achieved by combining synthetic peptides with a Toll-like receptor stimulant and anti-CD25 antibodies.

SourceMayo Clinic·DateApr 17, 2007
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Cancer tip -- Nanoparticles can damage DNA, increase cancer risk

Researchers at the University of Massachusetts have found that nanoparticles can cause DNA damage in breast cancer cells, increasing the risk of cancer. The study suggests that smaller particles are more likely to enter cells and cause toxicity, highlighting the need for further research on nanoparticle safety.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateApr 17, 2007

New methods and tools needed to measure exposure to airborne nanomaterials

The need for accurate measurement of airborne nanomaterials exposure is critical for protecting workers' health in nanotechnology-related jobs. Current approaches are insufficient, and further research is required to identify effective monitoring methods.

SourceWoodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars/Science and Technology Innovation Program·JournalNanotoxicology·DateApr 17, 2007

Study reports changing to a low-fat diet can induce stress

A study published in Biological Psychiatry found that mice withdrawn from high-fat diets became anxious and showed increased stress levels. Researchers also observed risk-taking behavior in the mice as they sought out their preferred diet.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateApr 17, 2007
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.

Promising treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder sleep disturbances

A recent study published in Biological Psychiatry found that prazosin significantly reduced trauma nightmares, improved sleep quality, and enhanced overall clinical condition in chronic PTSD patients. The study involved 40 veterans with PTSD, who showed a 71% improvement rate compared to those receiving placebo.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateApr 17, 2007

Study finds no survival benefit for gastric cancer patients

A randomized controlled trial of high-risk gastric cancer patients showed no significant difference in survival between two treatment groups. The five-year survival rate was around 50%, higher than previous studies, suggesting that the quality of surgery and potential toxicity of postoperative chemotherapy may be factors.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 17, 2007

Cancer vaccines -- Taking a jab at cancer by stimulating the immune system

New cancer vaccine studies are making progress in developing vaccines that can attack cancerous cells by stimulating the immune system. Researchers have found that a human papillomavirus vaccine continues to protect against HPV types 16 and 18, as well as other related viruses, with significant cross-protection.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateApr 17, 2007
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Research could lead to treatment for Alzheimer's disease

A molecule designed by a Purdue University researcher could prevent the formation of amyloid plaques in the brain, a key step in Alzheimer's disease. The new compound targets memapsin 2, an enzyme involved in plaque development, and has shown promising results in reducing beta-amyloid levels.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateApr 17, 2007

Popular herbal supplement hinders the growth of pancreatic cancer cells

A study from the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute found that triphala extracts can prevent or slow pancreatic cancer tumor growth in mice by inducing apoptosis. The herb was shown to activate tumor-suppressor genes, supporting the generation of proteins that promote cell death in cancer cells.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateApr 17, 2007

Pancreatic cancer vaccine halts progression of disease in some patients

A new pancreatic cancer vaccine has successfully stalled disease progression in a handful of patients three years post-vaccination, offering new insights into how the vaccine could be made more effective. The study found that the vaccine triggered an active immune response and slowed down cancer growth in four patients.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateApr 17, 2007
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Cancer patients are at high risk for potential drug interactions

A study found that nearly a third of cancer patients take at least one medication that can cause serious harm or interact with other medications, including anticancer treatments. The most common interactions involve warfarin and anticonvulsants, posing significant risks to patients with brain tumors.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateApr 17, 2007

Malaria-infected mice cured by 1 dose of new drug

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a new series of potent synthetic drugs modeled on an ancient Chinese herbal folk remedy that cure malaria-infected mice with a single shot. The compounds, containing a crucial oxygen-oxygen unit, promise to be more effective and potentially safer than current treatments.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalJournal of Medicinal Chemistry·DateApr 17, 2007
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.

Researchers from the UGR use a bacterium to obtain biopreservatives from food

The research group has successfully isolated and characterized enterocin AS-48, a protein substance with antimicrobial activity produced by Enterococcus faecalis S-48. The findings suggest that AS-48 could have medium-term use as a food biopreservative, providing a potential innovative solution for food preservation.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalJournal of Bacteriology·DateApr 17, 2007

Biologists prove critical step in membrane fusion

Researchers at Brown University have discovered that hemifusion, a critical step in membrane fusion, allows vesicles to share membranes without releasing their contents. This stable state enables the rapid delivery of drugs to target cells by controlling the timing of fusion.

SourceBrown University·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateApr 17, 2007

Head and neck cancer vaccine targets proteins to create immune response

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute have developed a novel vaccine strategy targeting mutated p53 protein peptides to activate the immune system against tumors. This approach has shown promising results in animal models and human cells in culture, and a phase I clinical trial is currently underway.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·DateApr 17, 2007
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

A discovery that may lessen a health disparity

Scientists at Mayo Clinic have isolated an enzyme called SULF2, which appears to be overexpressed in nasopharyngeal cancers. High levels of SULF2 are associated with increased risk of early recurrence and death within 10 years after radiation therapy.

SourceMayo Clinic·DateApr 17, 2007

Researchers develop technique for bacteria crowd control

Researchers developed a device to concentrate and separate bacteria using electric currents, suitable for miniaturized medical diagnostics. The method, based on pH changes, can be used to separate living and dead cells or bacteria with different motility, offering new applications in biotechnology.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review E·DateApr 17, 2007

Study projects effects of forest management in Oregon's Coast Range

The study, known as CLAMS, examines ecological, economic, and social consequences of forest policies in the Coast Range. The research found that maintaining current policies will lead to increased old-growth forests and habitat for old-forest species, but may result in declines in diverse early-successional and hardwood forests.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Northwest Research Station·JournalEcological Applications·DateApr 17, 2007

New undersea vent suggests snake-headed mythology

The Medusa hydrothermal vent field, discovered off Costa Rica, features hot iron-darkened water attracting unusual marine life. Researchers have found pink jellyfish, spiky tubeworm casings, and heat-tolerant organisms thriving in extreme conditions.

SourceDuke University·DateApr 17, 2007
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.

Proteins important in Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease travel in the slow lane

A novel video-imaging system reveals that slow component-b proteins, involved in Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases, exhibit rapid bursts of movement followed by pauses. Multiple slow proteins are also transported together as 'packets,' piggy-backing on molecular motors, suggesting a potential carpooling mechanism.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·DateApr 17, 2007

Antidepressants safe for children and adolescents

A meta-analysis of 27 major studies found antidepressants effective in treating anxiety, OCD, and depression in children and adolescents. The study suggests that while there is a small risk of suicidal thoughts, it is outweighed by the benefits of treatment.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalJAMA·DateApr 17, 2007
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.

Eating cured meats frequently can lead to lower lung function and potential COPD

A large cross-sectional survey found that frequent consumption of cured meats is associated with lower lung function test scores and increased odds of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The study suggests that high dietary nitrite intake may be a novel risk factor for COPD.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateApr 16, 2007

Obesity may be linked to middle ear effusions in children

Research suggests a possible association between childhood obesity and otitis media with effusion, characterized by fluid buildup in the middle ear space. The study found higher body mass index (BMI) and total cholesterol levels among children with otitis media with effusion compared to those without the condition.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateApr 16, 2007

Researchers discover gene crucial for nerve cell insulation

A defect in one copy of the EGR2 gene disrupts myelin production, leading to peripheral neuropathy. Researchers have deciphered a key sequence essential to myelin assembly, paving the way for new therapies.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalMolecular and Cellular Biology·DateApr 16, 2007
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.

Brain structure changes years before memory loss begins

Researchers found brain structure changes in people who developed dementia or Alzheimer's disease up to four years before memory loss began. Those destined for MCI had lower cognitive test scores at the start of the study, even within normal ranges.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateApr 16, 2007

20-year study shows significant rise in childhood obesity, especially among girls

A 20-year study reveals a significant rise in childhood obesity, especially among girls, with four-year-olds being six times more likely to have a BMI over 30 than their counterparts 20 years ago. Young girls are also more likely to be overweight or obese than boys, with nearly a third of ten-year-old girls having a BMI over 25.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalActa Paediatrica·DateApr 16, 2007

AGU Journal Highlights -- April 16, 2007

Scientists have discovered that earthquake-induced gravity field changes can slowly recover to initial conditions, possibly due to simultaneous diffusion of mantle water. This self-healing system could significantly reduce permanent shifts in the Earth's rotation axis by earthquakes. Meanwhile, recent trends in Arctic Ocean mass distri...

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 16, 2007

Winter flounder on the fast track to recovery

Researchers at the University of New Hampshire are setting the winter flounder fishery on the fast track to recovery through stock enhancement. The study found that hatchery-raised fish must be as fit as wild fish to ensure success, and acclimatization cages can help reduce vulnerability to predators.

SourceUniversity of New Hampshire·DateApr 16, 2007
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.

Pimp my meatballs -- collagen injections safeguard nutrients

A new study by researchers from the Agricultural University of Poznan in Poland found that collagen injections can help retain important nutrients like iodine and thiamine in meatballs. Thiamine is essential for energy conversion, while iodine deficiency can lead to severe health issues such as goiter and impaired mental development.

SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalJournal of the Science of Food and Agriculture·DateApr 16, 2007

Johns Hopkins develops pancreas cancer risk model

A new computer software tool, PancPRO, helps genetic counselors and physicians predict the chance of carrying a gene for hereditary pancreas cancer and the lifetime risk of developing the disease. The model, developed by Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center researchers, calculates a percentage score of probability that a person carries a...

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateApr 16, 2007

University of Alberta researchers unravel intricate animal patterns

University of Alberta researchers discovered that individual animal movements can influence the entire group, producing complex collective behaviors such as swarm formation and zig-zag group movements. By analyzing communication patterns, they found simple rules could produce intricate designs.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 16, 2007

Clinical studies evaluate potential treatments for mouth ulcers

A clinical study found that a cream commonly used to treat eczema may be effective in treating oral erosive lichen planus, a severe inflammatory condition. Another study showed limited benefit of pentoxifylline in treating recurrent apthous stomatitis, but the treatment was associated with significant adverse effects.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateApr 16, 2007
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.

Homework -- Keeping children, parents and teachers together

A new interactive learning system called HOMEWORK has been shown to improve communication between parents, teachers, and learners. It integrates educational software with multimedia technologies, making numeracy learning more engaging and increasing participation and enjoyment in homework.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateApr 16, 2007

Massive coral death atrributed to earthquake

Coral reefs on Pulau Simeulue and Pulau Banyak were severely damaged due to the 2005 earthquake, with some species suffering up to 100% loss. However, despite initial mass mortality, some coral species are beginning to re-colonize shallow reef areas, offering hope for recovery.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·DateApr 16, 2007

Rotavirus can spread beyond the intestine

A new study found that rotavirus, a common cause of diarrhea in children, can also be present systemically, with infectious virus detected in the blood of infected children. The presence of virus in the blood is directly related to the presence of antigen but independent of diarrhea.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateApr 16, 2007
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.