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Science News Archive August 2007 - Page 9


Page 9 of 17

Prophylactic cranial irradiation in small cell lung cancer significantly increases survival

Prophylactic cranial irradiation reduces the risk of symptomatic brain metastases and prolongs survival in small-cell lung cancer patients with extensive disease. The EORTC trial results show a significant increase in one-year survival, from 13.3% to 27.1%, after receiving prophylactic cranial irradiation.

SourceEuropean Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateAug 16, 2007

New caledonian crows find 2 tools better than 1

Researchers found that New Caledonian crows use two tools better than one to get a snack, rivaling great apes in tool-use skills. The birds solve the problem by using analogical reasoning, which requires seeing a novel situation as similar to a previous one.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 16, 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.

University of Pennsylvania researchers develop formula to gauge risk of disease clusters

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a mathematical formula to assess disease cluster risk, providing an exact probability calculation in under five seconds. The formula was used to investigate two disease clusters, one likely due to chance and the other possibly caused by a common environmental factor.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 16, 2007

Penn researchers discover new mechanism for viral replication

Researchers identified a new strategy that KSHV uses to replicate its viral genome, allowing it to evade the immune system. By eliminating viral protein production, they found that KSHV DNA can autonomously recruit cellular replication machinery proteins.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateAug 16, 2007

Structure of 450 million year old protein reveals evolution's steps

Researchers recreated a 450-million-year-old protein using X-ray crystallography and mapped its structure. They found that only seven mutations were needed to evolve the ancient receptor into its modern form, with some 'permissive' changes paving the way for more significant transformations.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalScience·DateAug 16, 2007

Self-fertility in fungi -- the secrets of 'DIY reproduction'

Researchers at the University of Nottingham discovered that Aspergillus nidulans fungi can reproduce sexually without a partner. This 'DIY reproduction' allows individuals to produce new offspring by activating internal sexual machinery, bypassing traditional mating.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 16, 2007
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.

Tumors use enzyme to recruit regulatory T-cells and suppress immune response

Research published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation shows that tumors use the enzyme IDO to directly activate existing regulatory T cells, which become strongly suppressive within a day. This discovery defines a tumor's survival strategy and suggests potential new leverage points for therapies.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 16, 2007

Researchers at University of Pennsylvania develop method for mass production of nanogap electrodes

The University of Pennsylvania has developed a method for parallel fabrication of multiple nanogap electrodes, enabling the creation of mass-produced nanoscale electronics. The self-balancing single-step technique uses feedback controlled electromigration to simultaneously form and adjust nanogaps with atomic-scale uniformity.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNano Letters·DateAug 16, 2007

Free distribution of insecticide-treated mosquito nets can save lives

A recent study published in PLOS Medicine found that a free mass distribution program increased ITN use among Kenyan children from 7% to 66%. The high rate of adoption was consistent across different family income levels. The researchers argue that making ITNs freely available is crucial for achieving high levels of use and saving lives.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 16, 2007

Understanding hypertension in African Americans proves elusive

A recent study found that exercise did not lower aldosterone levels in African Americans, a hormone linked to hypertension. Despite this, researchers believe exercise still has potential benefits for reducing blood pressure. The study's findings highlight the complexity of understanding hypertension in African Americans.

SourceTemple University·JournalExperimental Physiology·DateAug 16, 2007

Memory machine

Scientists found that long-term memories require a miniature molecular machine to maintain, which must be constantly active. Jamming this 'machine' can briefly erase memories, suggesting potential future treatments for memory problems.

SourceWeizmann Institute of Science·JournalScience·DateAug 16, 2007
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Ginkgo SRMs: Tools for product analysis/quality

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has issued a suite of Standard Reference Materials (SRMs) for ginkgo biloba, enabling the validation of analytical methods and support measurements associated with clinical trials or product label claims. The SRMs can also be used by dietary supplement manufacturers to improve p...

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateAug 16, 2007

Restricting blood flow in the arm to protect the heart?

Researchers found that restricting blood flow in the arm before coronary artery bypass graft surgery reduced troponin T levels by 43%. This technique, known as remote ischaemic preconditioning, may help protect the heart from injury during surgery. The study's implications for clinical practice are considered immense.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 16, 2007

Savanna habitat drives birds, and perhaps others, to cooperative breeding

Researchers found that over one-third of African starlings engage in cooperative breeding, a behavior typically seen in birds and other animals, due to the unpredictability of their savanna habitats. In contrast, non-cooperative species live in forests with more stable environments.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalCurrent Biology·DateAug 16, 2007

University of Cincinnati researchers design humorous 'bot'

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati have designed an AI software program that can recognize jokes, marking a significant advancement in computer capabilities. The bot uses phonological similarity and wordplay to identify humor, but is still limited by its current knowledge base and formal communication systems.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateAug 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.

SRMs track fire retardants in humans and environment

Researchers have measured concentrations of polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDEs) in human blood serum, cod liver oil, and house dust using NIST's Standard Reference Materials (SRMs). The results provide a better understanding of the source and degree of PBDE contamination in humans and the environment.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateAug 16, 2007

Freshwater supplies threatened in central Pacific

The study reveals that groundwater in atolls is vulnerable to frequent droughts, making it unreliable for drinking water. The team proposes strategies to increase the resilience of small island communities to water-related changes, including improving institutional management and community participation.

SourceSoil Science Society of America·JournalVadose Zone Journal·DateAug 15, 2007

Study links cat disease to flame retardants in furniture and to pet food

A study published by the American Chemical Society found a link between feline hyperthyroidism and exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) from flame retardants in furniture, pet food, and household dust. PBDE levels were three times higher in hyperthyroid cats than in younger cats.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 15, 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.

UA physicists discover 'super crystals' in a semiconductor

University of Arizona physicists have discovered 'super crystals' in certain organic semiconducting solids, which could create splashes of current and exhibit unique electrical properties. This discovery was made possible by analyzing experimental data from a previous study on a mysterious solid-state phase in a semiconductor.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 15, 2007

Anthrax vaccine produces immunity with nanoparticles, not needles

A vaccine against anthrax has been developed using nanoparticles, which triggers a strong immune response and induces immunity on mucous membranes, providing protection after bioterror attacks. The new vaccine is easy to store and administer without needles, making it a valuable tool for health authorities.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalInfection and Immunity·DateAug 15, 2007

Most flu shot plans do not address how to vaccinate hard-to-reach populations

A new study by the New York Academy of Medicine highlights the critical need to address vaccination coverage among hard-to-reach populations. The authors propose achievable strategies to increase immunization rates among these groups, including unconventional site distribution and patient reminders.

SourceNew York Academy of Medicine·JournalJournal of Urban Health·DateAug 15, 2007

Low levels of key protein may indicate pancreatic cancer risk

Researchers found that people with low IGFBP-1 levels were twice as likely to develop pancreatic cancer as those with higher levels. This protein's role in modulating insulin and IGF hormones may hold clues to the disease's development, potentially aiding in risk prediction.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalCancer Research·DateAug 15, 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.

Birth records hold pancreatic cancer clue

Research suggests women with a history of gestational diabetes are at higher risk of developing pancreatic cancer. A study of over 37,000 mothers who gave birth in Jerusalem between 1964 and 1976 found five cases of pancreatic cancer among those with gestational diabetes.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateAug 15, 2007

New target for anti-flu drug development

Scientists at Cure Lab, Inc. have identified a new target for the development of anti-influenza drugs, specifically the M2 protein, which may be responsible for killing human cells. This discovery has the potential to lead to a new generation of medicines that can complement existing treatments for influenza.

SourceCure Lab, Inc.·JournalCell Cycle·DateAug 15, 2007

Females avoid incest by causing male relatives to leave home

Female spotted hyenas prefer to mate with 'new arrivals' and males that have built friendly relationships, driving males to choose groups with high numbers of young females. This leads to a dispersal of males due to the higher availability of receptive females elsewhere.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalNature·DateAug 15, 2007

High pollution linked to poor lung function growth in children in Mexico City

A three-year study measured lung function growth in 3,170 eight-year-old children in Mexico City, finding significant deficits in children exposed to higher levels of air pollutants. The effects of long-term exposure on lung health are associated with increased risk of chronic obstructive lung disease and cardiovascular morbidity.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 15, 2007
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.

Humans fostering forest-destroying disease

Research suggests human activities are amplifying the impact of Sudden Oak Death, a forest-destroying disease caused by an invasive water mold. The study found that connected forests with high host species abundance have higher pathogen loads, while smaller, isolated forests have lower disease levels.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Charlotte·JournalEcological Applications·DateAug 15, 2007

Texas researchers and educators head for Antarctica

A team of UTSA researchers, led by renowned sea ice expert Stephen Ackley, will join a crew of 22 researchers from several countries to explore the Amundsen Sea in Antarctica. The two-month expedition aims to investigate the processes of how sea ice forms and interacts with the environment.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·DateAug 15, 2007

Marital violence among Asian-American couples

Researchers found that marital violence among Asian-Americans is linked to factors beyond marital distress, including family closeness and anxiety disorders. The study's findings highlight the need for therapy that addresses these underlying issues.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateAug 15, 2007
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.

Ocean 'supergyre' link to climate regulator

Researchers confirm the existence of a 'supergyre' connecting the three Southern Hemisphere ocean basins, which plays a crucial role in governing global climate. The Tasman Outflow, occurring at an average depth of 800-1,000m, may influence the response of the thermohaline circulation to climate change.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateAug 15, 2007

Male elephants get 'photo IDs' from scientists

A new method helps track individual male Asian elephants by analyzing their tusks, ears, and other features, aiding in poaching rate monitoring and conservation success. The study's results show 134 unique males out of a population of 991, with an adult male/female ratio of 1 to 4.33.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalAnimal Conservation·DateAug 15, 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.

Deep into the machinery of adult fragile X

Fragile X tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) is a recently identified neurological disorder affecting middle-aged adults, causing Parkinson's-like symptoms and cognitive decline. Researchers discovered that the mutation causing FXTAS triggers a failure of messenger RNA transport within neurons, leading to lethal clogging of brain cells.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateAug 15, 2007

HIV is a 'double hit' to the brain

The HIV/AIDS virus affects adult neural progenitor cells in the brain, preventing them from dividing and contributing to neurodegeneration. The protein gp120 causes both brain injury and prevents its repair, highlighting a potential target for new therapies.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateAug 15, 2007

International experts cite shortcomings in pediatric pain and palliative care

Pediatric palliative care specialists are calling for increased research to address the unique physical, psycho-social, and clinical needs of children with complex chronic conditions. The study identifies six challenges that must be addressed to further the field, including access to care and resources.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalThe Lancet·DateAug 15, 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.

Emerging (disease) markets

Wildlife experts from WCS and FAO argue that keeping wild animals separate in wildlife markets can prevent disease outbreaks. Closing these trade hubs could significantly reduce the threat of emerging diseases like avian flu.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalJournal of Wildlife Diseases·DateAug 15, 2007

Preclinical study suggests organ-transplant drug may aid in lupus fight

Researchers discovered that an analog of rapamycin halts production of antibodies and development of lupus in mice, suggesting a potential new approach to combating the disease. The study found that this compound improved symptoms and halted disease progression across different genetic strains of lupus-prone mice.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateAug 15, 2007

Toddlers are capable of introspection

Researchers at UC Davis found that 3- and 4-year-olds can think about their own thinking, using pictures to communicate uncertainty. This suggests that young children are more introspective than previously thought, with implications for human development and traits.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateAug 15, 2007

Researchers identify proteins involved in new neurodegenerative syndrome

A new neurodegenerative syndrome, fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome, has been identified as triggered by the interplay of two proteins binding to messenger RNA. Individuals with this condition exhibit higher levels of mRNA and experience tremors, balance issues, and difficulty with daily activities.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNeuron·DateAug 15, 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.

Air pollution linked to cardiovascular risk indices in healthy young adults

Researchers found that urban air pollution increases indices of cardiovascular risk, including inflammation, oxidative stress, coagulation, and autonomic dysfunction, in healthy Taiwanese college students. The study suggests a link between air pollution and systemic inflammation/oxidative stress in young adults.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 15, 2007

Gratitude is good medicine for organ recipients

A new study from UC Davis found that patients who keep gratitude journals score better on measures of mental health, general health, and vitality compared to those who only kept routine notes. Increased feelings of gratitude can cause people's well-being and quality of life to improve.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateAug 15, 2007
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.

Ambulatory oxygen rarely a benefit in COPD patients without resting hypoxemia

A recent study suggests that ambulatory oxygen therapy is not beneficial for COPD patients without resting hypoxemia, contrary to routine prescribing practices. The researchers found improvements in exercise performance but no benefits in daily life or quality of life.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateAug 15, 2007

AIDS interferes with stem cells in the brain

HIV/AIDS interferes with stem cells in the adult brain, preventing new nerve cells from forming, which is a key feature of AIDS dementia. The researchers discovered a novel molecular mechanism that inhibits stem cell proliferation, possibly triggered in other neurodegenerative diseases as well.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateAug 15, 2007

The memories you want to forget are the hardest ones to lose

Researchers found that emotional events can be hard to intentionally forget, even when trying to block off unwanted memories. The study's results suggest that emotion places limits on mental control and can undermine intentional forgetting.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalJournal of Experimental Social Psychology·DateAug 15, 2007
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.

Gender, coupled with diabetes, affects vascular disease development

Researchers found that female diabetic rats had reduced nitric oxide levels, while male diabetic rats produced more, leading to increased vascular dysfunction. The study suggests sex-specific therapeutic interventions may be necessary for effective treatment of vascular disease in diabetes.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·DateAug 15, 2007

Health care disparities start at the local pharmacy, study shows

A new study reveals that pharmacy disparities disproportionately impact elderly African-American patients with multiple medications for chronic diseases. Despite seeking a close relationship with pharmacists, many participants felt uncomfortable initiating discussions due to lack of knowledge or perceived busyness.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateAug 15, 2007

First all-African GM crop is resistant to maize streak virus

A genetically modified maize variety resistant to the severe maize streak virus has been created using pathogen-derived resistance, delaying symptom development and increasing survival rates. The research aims to alleviate Africa's food shortages and famine by providing a disease-resistant crop for local farmers.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalPlant Biotechnology Journal·DateAug 15, 2007