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Science News for October 2, 2007


Patients over age 60 do well after liver transplantation

A study of over 400 patients found that those over 60 years old had similar 1-year and 5-year survival rates as younger patients, with fewer rejection episodes. The researchers attribute this to the older patients' softer immune systems, which may also increase their risk of infection and cancer.

SourceWiley·JournalLiver Transplantation·DateOct 2, 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.

Menace in a bottle

The US Department of Homeland Security has developed a new screening prototype that uses ultra-low field magnetic resonance imaging to detect liquids in baggage and on airline passengers. The SENSIT technology can differentiate between harmful items and common carry-on liquid consumables with high accuracy.

SourceUS Department of Homeland Security - Science and Technology·DateOct 2, 2007

UAB wins $5.7M neurofibromatosis grant

A UAB research team will lead the NF Consortium, a nine-institution group studying neurofibromatosis type 1. The $5.7M grant will focus on clinical trials testing new treatments for adults and children with NF.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·DateOct 2, 2007

New research into plant colors sheds light on antioxidants

Scientists identify key enzymes responsible for modifying anthocyanins, which produce plant colors and offer antioxidant properties. The discovery could lead to the development of natural food colorings and improved understanding of plant-based cancer treatments.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·DateOct 2, 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.

Tamiflu survives sewage treatment

A study found that Tamiflu is not removed or degraded during normal sewage treatment, leading to high levels of the drug in surrounding waters. This increases the risk of influenza viruses developing resistance to the medication, posing a threat to public health.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 2, 2007

The 'MIP-MAP' game: Indian bug is the ancestor of Crohn's disease pathogen

Researchers found that Mycobacterium indicus pranii (MIP) is the earliest ancestor of generalist mycobacterial pathogens, including Crohn's disease pathogen M. avium paratuberculosis (MAP). The study suggests that MIP and MAP descended from a common ancestor and infected marine organisms before arriving on soil through bird-droppings.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 2, 2007

Vanderbilt nets brain gene research center

The Vanderbilt Conte Center for Neuroscience Research will investigate the role of serotonin in brain development and function, seeking to understand genetic variability's impact on mental health. The center aims to translate laboratory discoveries into improved treatments for mental illnesses, including depression and autism.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·DateOct 2, 2007
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Should schoolgirls be vaccinated against cancer virus?

The UK is considering vaccinating schoolgirls against the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) to prevent cervical cancer. A pilot study led by the University of Manchester aims to assess the acceptability and feasibility of a three-dose vaccine, Cervarix.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·DateOct 2, 2007

Fossil data plugs gaps in current knowledge, study shows

Scientists have demonstrated that fossils can be used to effectively understand complex branching in the evolutionary tree of life. By comparing morphological datasets of living and extinct species, researchers found no difference in the impact on the family tree when fossil data is included or removed.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalSystematic Biology·DateOct 2, 2007

Drug has ability to cure type of leukemia

Researchers at UC Irvine find Imatinib can kill cancerous stem cells, potentially curing CML under certain circumstances. A mathematical formula helps determine the optimal treatment duration.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 2, 2007

Creatine in addition to exercise enhances strength in older adults

A new study led by McMaster researcher Dr. Mark Tarnopolsky shows that taking a combination of creatine monohydrate and conjugated linoleic acid with resistance exercise training provides even greater benefits for muscle endurance and fat-free mass in older adults. The six-month program resulted in improvements of functional ability an...

SourceMcMaster University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 2, 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.

NRL instrument on NASA satellite sees solar hurricane detach comet tail

Scientists at NRL capture first images of a comet colliding with a solar hurricane, revealing the detachment of the comet's tail due to coronal mass ejection. The event is triggered by magnetic reconnection, releasing energy and detaching the plasma tail.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateOct 2, 2007

Vaginal progesterone gel may improve infant outcomes and...

Researchers found that vaginal progesterone gel reduced the need for intensive care and decreased hospital stays for premature infants. The treatment may also help prevent early preterm birth among women with a short cervix, according to the study's results.

SourceColumbia Laboratories, Inc.·DateOct 2, 2007

Major gender gap in use of life-saving heart device

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center analyzed Medicare records of over 236,000 patients between 1999 and 2005, finding that men were two to three times more likely than women to receive implantable cardioverter-defibrillators. The study also revealed racial disparities in ICD use, with white men receiving the most devices.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateOct 2, 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.

First significant genetic finding in severe PMS, or PMDD

A study has identified genetic variants associated with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a severe form of PMS. Women with specific variants in the estrogen receptor alpha gene were more likely to experience PMDD, suggesting hormonal factors play a key role in its development.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateOct 2, 2007

HIV-positive employees face job loss and workplace discrimination

Research finds that HIV-positive employees in France face unemployment and workplace discrimination, particularly women and those with lower education levels. The study, based on a nationally representative sample of 478 participants, highlights the impact of disease severity and discrimination on employment opportunities.

SourceBMJ Specialty Journals·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateOct 2, 2007

Even without math, ancients engineered sophisticated machines

Researchers discovered that ancient Greek craftsmen were able to build precise devices like the balance and catapult without understanding mathematical theory. This finding highlights the importance of practical know-how in scientific development and challenges the assumption that theoretical knowledge is essential for innovation.

SourceHarvard University·DateOct 2, 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.

New clinical guideline for low-back pain

The new guideline recommends clinicians rely on evidence-based therapies, limit X-rays, and consider non-pharmacologic options like exercise therapy, chiropractic care, and massage. The guidelines aim to reduce unnecessary radiation exposure and improve patient outcomes for low-back pain treatment.

SourceOregon Health & Science University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateOct 2, 2007

MU researcher presents origin-of-life theory for young Earth

University of Missouri-Columbia researcher Rainer Glaser presents a novel origin-of-life theory suggesting that essential molecule adenine originated from interstellar dust clouds. The presence of highly concentrated hydrogen cyanide (HCN) in these clouds could indicate the existence of adenine, which is crucial for life on Earth.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 2, 2007

New system to lead to safer drugs for tropical disease leishmaniasis

Researchers at Durham University have developed a new screening system to identify safer drugs for leishmaniasis. This breakthrough could lead to the development of non-toxic anti-protozoal drugs with reduced side effects, potentially saving lives in tropical regions.

SourceBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council·DateOct 2, 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.

On-screen smoking in movies linked to young adult smoking behavior

A new study by the University of California, San Francisco, found that exposure to on-screen smoking in movies is strongly correlated with beginning or becoming established smokers among young adults aged 18-25. The research team also identified positive expectations about smoking and exposure to friends and relatives who smoke as key ...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateOct 2, 2007

Increasing young adult smoking linked to smoking in movies

A study found that young adults exposed to smoking in movies are more likely to start or continue smoking. The research, published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, suggests a dose-dependent relationship between movie smoking and young adult smoking.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateOct 2, 2007

Drug has ability to cure type of leukemia

A new study by UC Irvine scientists suggests that Imatinib can drive cancer into remission in people with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) if taken over a long enough period of time. The researchers developed a mathematical formula to calculate the optimal treatment duration, which could potentially lead to a cure.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 2, 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.

Daisies lead scientists down path to new leukemia drug

Researchers develop compound that targets leukemia at stem-cell level, where malignancy is born, potentially leading to more effective treatments. DMAPT appears to be unique in its ability to kill both dormant and dividing cancer cells without harming healthy blood cells.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalBlood·DateOct 2, 2007

Low doses of a red wine ingredient fight diabetes in mice

Researchers found that low doses of resveratrol improve insulin sensitivity in mice, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. The study suggests that foods enriched with resveratrol or supplemented with the chemical may be a better option for improving insulin sensitivity.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateOct 2, 2007

ICDs underused in women, minorities with heart failure

Researchers found that only 35% of eligible patients had an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) installed or planned. Women and minorities are less likely to receive ICDs than white men, highlighting a need for improved treatment options.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·DateOct 2, 2007

Titan's icy climate mimics Earth's tropics

Scientists at the University of Chicago have found that Titan's climate is analogous to Earth's tropics, with methane clouds and a tropical weather system. The moon's slow rotation rate and atmosphere produce an updraft that lifts evaporated methane into clouds, similar to Earth's ITCZ.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 2, 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.

Genetic 'roadblock' hoped to inspire future type 2 diabetes research

Researchers from Mount Sinai Hospital's Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute have discovered a genetic 'roadblock' that sensitizes mice to insulin, paving the way for new treatments. The study found that eliminating the glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) gene made insulin more effective in regulating blood sugar levels.

SourceSamuel Lunenfeld Research Institute·JournalCell Metabolism·DateOct 2, 2007

Avoiding sweets may spell a longer life, study in worms suggests

A new study suggests that avoiding sweets may spell a longer life. Researchers found that worms lived up to 20% longer when unable to process glucose, increasing mitochondrial activity and oxidative stress. This finding raises questions about the effects of sugar on human lifespan and treatment for type 2 diabetes.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Metabolism·DateOct 2, 2007

New study sheds light on Galápagos hawk evolutionary history

A new study published in Molecular Ecology sheds light on the Galápagos hawk's evolutionary history by analyzing DNA sequences from feather lice. The research reveals how island populations of the bird might have colonized the Galápagos islands, and provides insights into the evolution of cooperative behavior.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalMolecular Ecology·DateOct 2, 2007

Carbon dioxide triggers inborn distress

A study found that carbon dioxide inhalation triggers emotional distress and a panic response in healthy volunteers. The reaction is dose-dependent, with higher CO2 concentrations causing stronger negative emotions. Older subjects exhibited a weaker reaction, suggesting an underlying protective brain alarm may be blunted in the elderly.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 2, 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.

How basil gets its zing

Researchers at the Salk Institute have solved part of the molecular puzzle behind basil's characteristic warm and sweet aroma, providing a three-dimensional snapshot of the enzyme Eugenol Synthase. The study reveals how this enzyme produces eugenol, a fragrant molecule responsible for basil's spicy overtones.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 2, 2007

How 'mother of thousands' makes plantlets

Mother of thousands plant reproduces by dropping off complete miniature plants that grow independently, unlike most plants which rely on seeds. The plant's ability to make plantlets has been linked to the expression of specific genes STM and LEC.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 2, 2007

Thumb-size microsystem enables cell culture and incubation

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University developed a thumb-size micro-incubator that cultures living cells autonomously for extended periods. The device features computer-controlled electronics, precise temperature control, and an eco-friendly design that minimizes environmental impact.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Circuits and Systems·DateOct 2, 2007

Are women being scared away from math, science, and engineering fields?

A study by Mary Murphy found that women experience identity threat when outnumbered in MSE settings, leading to decreased performance expectations and actual performance. The study suggests that situational cues can contribute to the performance gap between men and women in these fields.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 2, 2007

Computer science, art & technology team on NSF grant

A transderivational search engine will be developed to help people discover connections between text, audio, image, geometry, and motion data. The researchers aim to enhance the synaesthetic effect in analogy generation and advance artificial intelligence through this technology.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·DateOct 2, 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.

New projections for Australia's changing climate

New projections for Australia's changing climate indicate rising temperatures and changes in rainfall patterns. By 2030, temperatures are expected to increase by about 1ºC, with a 10-20% chance of exceeding this threshold in coastal areas.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateOct 2, 2007

NSF awards MU $2.16M for intraplate earthquake studies

University of Missouri-Columbia researchers are awarded $2.16 million to investigate the cause of intraplate earthquakes in North China and the New Madrid area. The multi-institutional study aims to improve understanding of these rare and destructive earthquakes.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateOct 2, 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.