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Science News Archive December 2007


Page 16 of 16

Natural compound in broccoli could treat devastating genetic skin disorder

Researchers have identified a natural compound, sulforaphane, found in broccoli that may treat a genetic skin disorder called epidermolysis bullosa simplex (EBS). Sulforaphane has been shown to induce the production of missing keratins in basal epidermis, potentially restoring skin integrity in EBS patients.

Were the first stars dark?

A new study suggests that the universe's first stars were dark, invisible 'dark stars' powered by dark matter. These massive stars could be billions of years old and would generate gamma rays, neutrinos, and antimatter.

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.

One bad apple: Consumers prefer perfect produce

A study by Chengyan Yue found that consumers prefer conventionally grown apples with minimal blemishes due to their better appearance. Organic apple producers must weigh the trade-off between cosmetic damage and production costs in their decisions.

How cells keep in shape

Researchers at EMBL and AMOLF discovered a new experimental approach to study microtubule end tracking proteins, which are crucial for cell shape development. The study sheds light on the interaction between proteins and the cell's skeleton, revealing how +TIPs recognize dynamic microtubule ends.

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.

Mutant sperm guide clinicians to new diseases

A recent study published in Nature Genetics analyzed mutant sperm cells to identify genes involved in disease, revealing that duplications are less frequent than deletions in certain regions. The findings suggest improved diagnosis for genomic diseases and a new approach to predicting disease-causing variants.

Lupus gene finding prompts call for more DNA samples

Researchers have identified a key Lupus gene that increases risk by 50%, prompting a need for more patient DNA samples. The OX40L variant is crucial in the immune system and may hold the key to diagnosing and treating the disease.

Southern farmers realize profits from highbush blueberries

A recent study by the University of Georgia found that southern highbush blueberries have a viable and profitable industry potential. With a 92% chance of profit margin, farmers can expect positive returns on investment, leading to increased production and job creation.

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.

A real attention grabber

Researchers at the University of Western Ontario have developed a new method to measure covert attention, shedding light on how the brain directs attention. By recording muscle activity in the neck, scientists can now detect when someone's eyes are not moving but still focusing on something.

Newly-identified exercise gene could help with depression

Researchers at Yale University discovered a novel gene, VGF, that plays a crucial role in exercise-induced antidepressant effects. The study found that enhancing VGF expression can function like a powerful anti-depressant, providing a potential new treatment target for depression.

'Smart' flower bulbs pull themselves to deeper ground

Researchers discovered that some flower bulbs can move down into the ground in search of better growing conditions. Exposure to blue light triggers this movement, which is achieved through a hydraulic shift in cortical cells.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

PDSS reliable in measuring impact of sleep disorders on teens' academic performance

A study published in SLEEP journal found a strong correlation between sleep disorders and poor academic performance in teenagers. The Pediatric Daytime Sleepiness Scale (PDSS) was used to measure the impact of sleep-related breathing disorders on teens' grades, with results showing that snoring and apneas were independent predictors of...

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.

Brain patterns of former anorexics reveal clues to disorder's lasting impact

Researchers found that former anorexics showed distinct brain pattern differences, particularly in emotional response regions. Their brains were more focused on consequences and planning, suggesting a persistent risk of obsessive thinking. This study may lead to better understanding and treatment development for anorexia nervosa.

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.

Short, long sleep duration associated with increased mortality

A study found that both short and long sleep durations are associated with an elevated risk of mortality. Participants who slept five to six hours or less at baseline but reported extended sleep hours had lower mortality rates, while those sleeping seven to eight hours had higher mortality rates.