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Science News Archive October 2007 - Page 19


Page 19 of 21

Battling virus disease of watermelon with bottlegourds

Researchers have discovered 36 bottlegourd accessions with complete resistance to ZYMV, a major scourge of commercial cucurbits. Grafting popular watermelon cultivars onto resistant bottlegourd rootstocks may provide a sustainable solution to control the virus.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateOct 3, 2007

Left main coronary artery disease can double or treble heart risk in siblings

Researchers found that initially healthy siblings of a person with left main coronary artery disease are 2.5 times more likely to develop some form of heart disease than those without the condition. This highlights the importance of family screening and prevention strategies for individuals with a history of LMD.

SourceOxford University Press UK·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateOct 3, 2007

UC San Diego physicists tackle knotty puzzle

Researchers developed a model to explain how knots form in tumbled strings, revealing a connection to DNA unwinding and tumor cell behavior. The study used computer simulations and experimentation to classify thousands of knots, shedding light on the probability of knot formation.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 3, 2007

War more traumatic than tsunami

A study published in International Journal of Mental Health Systems highlights the long-term effects of war on mental health. The research suggests that grassroots community approaches are effective in coping with disasters and promoting collective well-being.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalInternational Journal of Mental Health Systems·DateOct 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.

MIT aids creation of neural prosthetic devices

Researchers at MIT have created an algorithm to convert brain signals into action in patients with paralysis or amputations, unifying disparate approaches to neural prosthetic devices. The technique provides a common framework for various measurement techniques and brain regions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Neurophysiology·DateOct 3, 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 do patients choose the best treatment for their disease?

Research in Medical Decision Making explores how patients select optimal treatments by weighing factors such as health outcomes, side effects, and cost. New approaches and best practices for assessing and conveying risk information are also discussed to improve decision-making processes.

SourceSAGE·JournalMedical Decision Making·DateOct 3, 2007

Research points towards early cancer detection

Researchers discovered critical telomere length and chromosomal fusion, offering hope for an early warning test. Telomeres play a crucial role in cell division, and their dysfunction can lead to cancer formation.

SourceCardiff University·JournalGenes & Development·DateOct 3, 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.

Brain's 'social enforcer' centers identified

The study found activation of specific areas in the prefrontal cortex when subjects knew they could face punishment for non-compliance. People with Machiavellian traits showed higher brain activity in these areas, suggesting a link to their selfish behavior.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateOct 3, 2007
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Linking 2 molecular pieces of the Alzheimer's puzzle

Researchers have discovered a biological link between amyloid precursor protein and a gene variant linked to late-onset Alzheimer’s disease. This finding may lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating the devastating disease.

SourceCell Press·JournalNeuron·DateOct 3, 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.

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

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
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.

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
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.

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

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
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.

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

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
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.

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

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

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
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.

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
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.

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
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.

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