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Science News Archive December 2007 - Page 15


Page 15 of 16

'Magma P.I.' unearths clues to how crust was sculpted

Geologist Bruce Marsh proposes that magma channels fractured the Earth's surface, providing a 'template' for later erosion to create valleys and mountain ranges. The discovery in Antarctica's McMurdo Dry Valleys dates back at least 180 million years, shedding light on land-surface evolution.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateDec 3, 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.

Rise in serious head injuries among snowboarders and skiers

Serious head injuries among alpine skiers and snowboarders have increased over the past 15 years, with faster speeds and jumping maneuvers being a major contributor. Helmet use has been shown to reduce the risk of serious brain injuries by 22-60%.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalInjury Prevention·DateDec 3, 2007

New ramelteon data presented at AARC

A new study presented at AARC found that ramelteon did not exacerbate respiratory depressant effects in patients with moderate to severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The study showed significant increases in total sleep time and sleep efficiency with ramelteon compared to placebo.

SourceKetchum UK·DateDec 3, 2007

Exercising our immune system

Research finds that elite rowers show a significant reduction in lactoferrin concentration after five months of sedentary lifestyle, but experience an increase in salivary proteins following moderate and high-intensity exercise. This study aims to test the effectiveness of nutritional interventions on the immune system.

SourceResearch Australia·DateDec 3, 2007

Genes identified that protect against heart damage from chemotherapy

A series of genes has been identified as protecting cells from the harmful effects of doxorubicin, a commonly used chemotherapeutic agent. The long-term goal is to develop ways to turn these genes off in cancer cells and on in heart cells to prevent or mitigate heart damage.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·DateDec 3, 2007

Brain abnormalities discovered in people who have trouble reading fast

A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that individuals with trouble reading quickly exhibit brain abnormalities in their white matter. The researchers discovered a specific type of dyslexia affecting these individuals, which was linked to disruptions in their white matter fibers.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateDec 3, 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.

New upper limit defined for normal ALT in adolescent males

A study of adolescent offenders found a new upper limit for ALT that is more sensitive for diagnosing liver disease. The findings suggest targeted interventions for at-risk youths, who are high-risk for HCV infection and obesity-related liver disease.

SourceWiley·JournalHepatology·DateDec 3, 2007

Simple two-in-one test signals high risk after a heart attack

A new study found that a two-in-one test examining the nervous system and heart's electrical system can identify patients at highest risk of cardiac arrest or death after a heart attack. The REFINE study revealed that combining findings from one simple test makes it significantly more likely to identify high-risk patients.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateDec 3, 2007

'Mini-transplant' patients' outcomes similar using related and unrelated donor cells

Researchers found that nonmyeloablative stem-cell transplant patients have similar outcomes regardless of whether they receive related or unrelated donor cells, with no significant differences in mortality rates. The study suggests that the combination of immunosuppressive drugs and mini-transplant biology may be responsible for the co...

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalBiology of Blood and Marrow Transplantation·DateDec 3, 2007

JCI online early table of contents: Dec. 3, 2007

Researchers at Karolinska Institute have identified a new source of dopamine cells that provided marked benefit when transplanted into mice with Parkinson's-like disease. Wnt5a-treated neural stem cells may be an efficient and safe source for DA cell replacement therapy in individuals with PD.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 3, 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.

New map outlines risk of zebra mussel invasion

A new study suggests that nearly 60% of the US is at high risk for zebra mussel invasion due to low calcium levels in streams and lakes. The invasive species could spread rapidly through connecting waterways and recreational boating, causing millions of dollars in damage and ecological harm.

SourceOregon State University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateDec 3, 2007

Workplace repetitive strain injury likely to be significantly overestimated

A recent study found that only 14% of arm pain is likely to be caused or aggravated by arm straining activities, contradicting previous data from Labour Force Surveys. The survey results indicated that nearly half of respondents experienced arm pain in the past year, with many attributing it to their job.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateDec 3, 2007

Internists say pay-for-performance programs must put patients first

The American College of Physicians emphasizes the need to balance performance incentives with patient-centered care. Pay-for-performance programs may neglect complex patient needs, particularly for elderly patients with multiple chronic conditions. ACP advocates for a more nuanced approach that prioritizes patient welfare and preferences.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 3, 2007

New national map shows relative risk for zebra and quagga mussel invasion

A new national map assesses the risk of zebra and quagga mussel invasion in US waterways, with nearly 60% of land areas classified as high-risk. The map uses calcium concentrations to predict mussel distributions, highlighting regions where management resources should be targeted.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateDec 3, 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.

Slow reading in dyslexia tied to disorganized brain tracts

Researchers found that disorganized white matter in the brain, particularly circuitous connections and poor organization, may cause slow reading in individuals with dyslexia. The study suggests that white-matter integrity and organization play a crucial role in reading fluency.

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalNeurology·DateDec 3, 2007

Job picture for 2006 chemistry grads reasonably good, C&EN reports

The job situation for 2006 chemistry graduates is 'reasonably good' according to the American Chemical Society. The median salary for full-time, permanent employment for bachelor's graduates remained at $35,000. However, salaries for master's and Ph.D. graduates experienced significant declines.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateDec 3, 2007

James Webb Space Telescope marks successful completion

The James Webb Space Telescope has successfully completed its preliminary design review, verifying the integrated performance of its Optical Telescope Element. The telescope, set to be the premier space observatory of the next decade, will study various phases in the universe's history.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateDec 3, 2007

Story ideas from the Journal of Lipid Research

Two studies found that genetic variants in metabolic genes impact cholesterol metabolism, while Crohn's disease contributes to atherosclerosis. Researchers also identified a potential treatment for bile acid disorders using FXR targeted therapies.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Lipid Research·DateDec 3, 2007

How to help baby like fruits and veggies

Research from the Monell Center found that breast-feeding confers an advantage in acceptance of foods during weaning, especially if mothers regularly eat those foods. Repeated opportunities to taste fruits and vegetables enhance acceptance and intake, even for formula-fed infants.

SourceMonell Chemical Senses Center·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateDec 3, 2007
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Uninsured, others less likely to receive breast cancer test

A study by American Cancer Society researchers found significant disparities in breast cancer diagnosis, particularly among uninsured and African American women. They are more likely to miss axillary lymph node assessments, which help determine stage and guide treatment decisions.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·DateDec 3, 2007

MIT sculpts 3-D particles with light

Researchers at MIT have developed a method to create three-dimensional microparticles using ultraviolet light, offering unprecedented control over size, shape, and texture. The particles can be designed with specific chemical properties, such as porosity, making them suitable for use in medical diagnostics and tissue engineering.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateDec 3, 2007

JCI table of contents: Dec. 3, 2007

A new study published in JCI Journal has found that CP-31398, a compound that binds to mutant forms of the p53 protein, can prevent and treat UV light–induced skin cancers in mice. The study also demonstrated that CP-31398 increased p53 function in human skin cancer cells expressing a mutant form of p53.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 3, 2007

Choosing dry or wet food for cats makes little difference

A University of Missouri-Columbia study found that weight gain, not the type of diet, is a key factor in developing diabetes in cats. The researchers compared glucose-tolerance tests between cats fed dry food and those fed canned food, finding no significant difference.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateDec 3, 2007
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.

CU-Boulder technology used to identify unexpected bacteria in cystic fibrosis patients

A CU-Boulder technology has been used to identify unexpected bacteria strains in the lung fluid of Denver children suffering from cystic fibrosis. The method uses nucleic acid gene sequencing to rapidly detect and classify pathogens found in the lungs, identifying over 60 species of bacteria in samples from 28 patients.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 3, 2007

Cold Spring Harbor Protocols features innovative methods for embryology research

Two new protocols are introduced to examine critical stages of early embryogenesis using fluorescently tagged cells. These methods enable the visualization of subtle movements of individual cells during embryo development. Researchers can use these techniques to investigate mechanisms of brain and heart development in birds.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCold Spring Harbor Protocols·DateDec 3, 2007

Young chimps top adult humans in numerical memory

Researchers found that young chimpanzees possess an extraordinary working memory capability for numerical recollection, surpassing that of human adults. This surprising ability is reminiscent of 'eidetic imagery,' a special skill present in some normal human children.

SourceCell Press·DateDec 3, 2007

Stop smoking services are reducing the UK's health gap, shows study

A recent study by the University of Bath found that smokers from poorer areas are using NHS stop smoking services and successfully quitting at a higher rate than those from more affluent communities. The overall proportion of smokers from disadvantaged areas accessing these services is also higher, suggesting that the NHS stop smoking ...

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalTobacco Control·DateDec 3, 2007
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Tethered to chip, energy supply that drives sperm could power 'nanobot'

Scientists at Cornell's Baker Institute of Animal Health have successfully assembled and functioned a human-made device that mimics the biological pathway powering sperm, which could be used to release drugs or perform mechanical functions inside the body. The device uses a nickel-NTA chip to replicate the glycolysis pathway, allowing ...

SourceAmerican Society for Cell Biology·DateDec 3, 2007

Humans not the major target of Shiga toxin

Researchers found that bacteria carrying Shiga toxin have an evolutionary advantage against bacterial predators when co-cultured with Tetrahymena. The Shiga toxin kills Tetrahymena by binding to its surface receptor, and removing this receptor can prevent killing.

SourceAmerican Society for Cell Biology·DateDec 3, 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.

Promising approach to a more effective sunscreen

Researchers discovered a promising new agent, CP-31398, that restores mutant p53 tumor suppressor function and inhibits skin cancer growth in mice exposed to UVB light. The findings suggest potential for this approach as a sunscreen component for preventing and treating UV light-induced skin cancers.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 3, 2007

Replacing the cells lost in Parkinson disease

Researchers have discovered a novel method to produce dopamine cells for Parkinson's disease treatment by cultivating ventral midbrain neural stem cells with Wnt5a. This approach yielded substantial recovery in mice with PD-like disease, without tumor development.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 3, 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.

Purified bacterial extract sprayed into lungs ramps up innate immune system

A purified bacterial extract spray administered to laboratory mice provided powerful protection against all four major classes of pathogens, including anthrax and bubonic plague. The treatment was shown to stimulate a healthy immune response and increase antimicrobial polypeptides in the lung lining fluid.

SourceAmerican Society for Cell Biology·DateDec 3, 2007

Rates of anxiety, mood disorders high in areas affected by Hurricane Katrina

A study of 1,043 residents found that almost half had evidence of an anxiety or mood disorder five to seven months after the hurricane. The rate was highest among New Orleans residents, who were more likely to develop such disorders following physical adversity, property loss, and stressors associated with the slow government response.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateDec 3, 2007

Best treatment identified to reduce deadly Staph infections

A new study found that benzethonium chloride is more effective in killing methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteria than other antibacterial products. The compound kills common types of non-hospital MRSA bacteria better than others, with a genuine bactericidal effect against all four tested strains.

SourceOregon State University·DateDec 3, 2007

Giardia loses its hold on intestinal tissue after 'tonic shock'

Researchers discovered Giardia's attachment mechanism relies on an osmotic suction cup, which can be disrupted by 'tonic shock'. The parasite's grip on intestinal tissue can be broken using a timed pattern of high and low tonicity, suggesting new treatment options.

SourceAmerican Society for Cell Biology·DateDec 3, 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.

Present-day species of piranha result from a marine incursion into the Amazon Basin

A study of mitochondrial DNA reveals that piranhas' modern species originated from a recent diversification event triggered by marine incursions into the Amazon Basin. The researchers propose that factors like water quality and geographical history played a crucial role in shaping the diversity of these fish species.

SourceInstitut de recherche pour le développement·JournalEcology·DateDec 3, 2007

Climate change predicted to drive trees northward

A comprehensive study finds that climate change could lead to significant shifts in North American tree ranges, with potential decreases of up to 58% if species cannot disperse. The research used an extensive data-gathering effort and simulated two climate change scenarios.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateDec 3, 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.

New smartpen and paper to help teach blind college students

A new smartpen and paper technology developed by Livescribe aims to enable blind college students to learn complex STEM subjects like physics, calculus, and biology. The technology allows students to explore diagrams and figures through touch and audio, making it more accessible and interactive.

SourceVanderbilt University·DateDec 3, 2007

Modifying an anti-cancer drug makes it more specific

Researchers at Rice University have engineered a modified form of the anti-cancer drug imatinib, known as WBZ_4, which targets specific cancer-causing proteins without affecting normal bodily functions. This new compound shows promise in treating gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) with reduced risk of heart toxicity.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateDec 3, 2007

Internists diagnose health-care system ills, show how to achieve universal coverage

The American College of Physicians proposes a pluralistic system with government and private organizations ensuring universal access, or a single-payer system with lower administrative costs. The organization also recommends improving patient care coordination, disease prevention, and reducing healthcare administration costs.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateDec 3, 2007

Fossils excavated from Bahamian blue hole may give clues of early life

The discovery of well-preserved fossils in a blue hole off the coast of the Bahamas provides insights into early life on isolated islands. Fossilized bones of land-lubbing crocodiles and tortoises, as well as plant fossils, have been found, shedding light on the impact of human arrival on island ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 3, 2007
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Red alert: Wild strawberries may reduce cancer risk

A recent study by Dr. Shiow Y. Wang found that seven types of wild strawberries contain higher antioxidant levels and more potential to reduce cancer risk. The antioxidants in these 'super seven' strawberries may be useful in developing cultivars with greater anticancer potential.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalJournal of the American Society for Horticultural Science·DateDec 2, 2007

Buyer beware: Stressed plants won't survive shipping

Research by Dr. Terri W. Starman identified the strongest survivors of postharvest experiences among popular garden plants marketed to consumers. High-quality plants may look healthy but decline in quality within a week, with most becoming unmarketable after three weeks.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateDec 2, 2007