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Science News Archive 2008


Page 1 of 240

Prenatal syphilis screening rates: Are they being accurately reported?

A recent study found that state Medicaid statistics significantly underreported prenatal syphilis screening rates, with only half of eligible women having evidence recorded. The study suggests that analyses relying solely on Medicaid data may not provide an accurate picture of screening rates nationwide.

SourceIndiana University·JournalSexually Transmitted Diseases·DateApr 3, 2008

A rigorous method for liver biopsy

A new quantitative analysis method uses computerized measurements to evaluate liver biopsy samples, providing accurate assessments of fibrosis and inflammation. The Metriser technology offers a faster and more objective alternative to traditional scoring systems.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateDec 31, 2008
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 new light on the anti-tumor mechanisms of Scutellaria barbata

Research on Scutellaria barbata extract reveals growth inhibitory effects on human cancers, including lung, breast, and digestive system cancer. The extract induces apoptosis in hepatoma cells through the mitochondrial pathway, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateDec 31, 2008

New visualization techniques yield star formation insights

Astrophysicists used new computer visualization technology to understand that gravity plays a more significant role than previously thought in deep space's star-forming molecular clouds. The research, led by Alyssa Goodman, reveals hierarchical structure and density variations within these clouds.

SourceCenter for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian·JournalNature·DateDec 31, 2008

Lung cancer cells activate inflammation to induce metastasis

A research team at UC San Diego has identified a protein called versican that enhances metastasis by stimulating inflammatory cells. Versican is found in low amounts in normal lung epithelial cells but is upregulated in aggressive lung tumors, supporting the growth and spread of cancer.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateDec 31, 2008

What is the pathogenesis of C. jejuni-related disease?

Research team investigates Campylobacter jejuni pathogenesis, finding two distinct patterns of interaction with epithelial cells. Strains that invade epithelial cells destroy them, while those that don't affect barrier properties or increase mediator production.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateDec 31, 2008
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.

Scientists make strides toward defining genetic signature of Alzheimer's disease

Researchers have made significant progress in defining the genetic signature of Alzheimer's disease, a complex neurodegenerative disorder. The study identified a new SNP on chromosome 12q13 and confirmed the known apolipoprotein E association, revealing that 50% of the genetic risk effect remains unexplained.

SourceCell Press·JournalAmerican Journal of Human Genetics·DateDec 31, 2008

Seizing the day

A new study from Tel Aviv University found that occupational stress has no effect on epilepsy attacks, with a large sample size allowing for high predictive power. The research benefits those who have been seizure-free for a long period of time, showing they are likely to stay seizure-free.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalEpilepsia·DateDec 31, 2008

Bright lights, not-so-big pupils

A team of Johns Hopkins neuroscientists has discovered a new type of light sensor in the eye that detects light and communicates with the brain. These melanopsin-containing cells are insensitive to light, but their signal is large enough to influence the brain when activated by multiple photons.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature·DateDec 31, 2008

The culture of medicine

A new Brandeis University study reports that academic medicine faces a toxic culture leading to faculty burnout and disconnection, affecting patient care and professional relationships. The study identifies serious problems with relational culture, competitive individualism, and deprecation among medical faculty members.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalAcademic Medicine·DateDec 31, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Fewer deaths with preventive antibiotic use

Researchers found that administering antibiotics as a preventive measure to patients in intensive care units increases their chances of survival, with a reduction of 3.5% in ICU deaths. The study involved nearly 6,000 patients and showed that using antibiotics resulted in fewer deaths compared to standard ICU care.

SourceUniversity Medical Center Utrecht·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 31, 2008

In lung cancer, silencing one crucial gene disrupts normal functioning of genome

Researchers found that silencing of a crucial gene in lung cancer leads to impairment in genome-wide changes, contributing to cancer development and progression. Tobacco use is strongly linked to modification of the MTHFR gene, which triggers global hypomethylation and deregulation of DNA synthesis.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateDec 31, 2008

Why prostate cancer patients fail hormone deprivation therapy

Researchers have discovered a key difference in hormone receptors on prostate cancer cells in patients who no longer respond to hormone deprivation therapy. The finding, published in Cancer Research, could lead to new targets for treating prostate cancer and monitoring disease progression.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCancer Research·DateDec 31, 2008
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Researchers engineer pancreatic cell transplants to evade immune response

Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine developed a technique to make foreign pancreatic cells invisible to the immune system, dramatically protecting them from rejection. The new method could pave the way for routine use of cell transplants as a therapy for type 1 diabetes in humans.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalGene Therapy·DateDec 31, 2008

Hubble telescope to get last tuneup during International Year of Astronomy

The Hubble Space Telescope is set to undergo its fifth and final service mission, which will provide the telescope with a future as bright as its past despite being nearly 18 years into troubled beginnings. The repairs will upgrade instruments, replace gyroscopes and heat shields, and add new capabilities for deeper observations.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature·DateDec 31, 2008

Is bismuth a safe medicine for the treatment peptic ulcer disease?

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that bismuth compounds were associated with a low risk of adverse events, with the exception of dark stools, which has little clinical significance. The study suggests that bismuth-containing regimens may be a safe alternative to PPI-based triple therapies for H. pylori eradication.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateDec 31, 2008

Soybean database will help breeders engineer better-performing plants

University of Missouri researchers are creating a comprehensive database of soybean proteins and metabolites to study changes under drought and stressed conditions. The database will help breeders engineer better-performing soybean plants using computerized models that predict physiological and biological changes.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateDec 30, 2008
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Potential therapy for congenital muscular dystrophy

Researchers found that laminin-111 restored regenerative capacity in a mouse model for alpha 7 integrin congenital myopathy. The protein promotes muscle cell health and survival by interacting with the extracellular matrix.

SourceAmerican Journal of Pathology·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateDec 30, 2008

Tips from the American Journal of Pathology

Researchers found that irradiation damages fat tissue in mice, reducing its weight and size, and altering its ability to support reconstruction. Additionally, a study on multiple sclerosis found that CXCL1 decreases disease severity by promoting remyelination. A new molecule, FPR-2, has been identified as a potential anti-inflammatory ...

SourceAmerican Journal of Pathology·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateDec 30, 2008

Few DNA repair genes maintain association with cancer in field synopsis

A comprehensive review of 241 gene variants and cancer risk identified only two statistically significant associations, including an XRCC1 allele and ERCC2 allele linked to lung cancer. The findings suggest that genetic risks are typically modest, and large-scale evidence is needed to establish specific associations.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 30, 2008
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Safe new therapy for genetic heart disease

A new clinical trial suggests that long-term use of candesartan may significantly reduce symptoms of genetic heart disease, including left ventricular hypertrophy. The study found no adverse effects of candesartan use and highlights the need for customized treatment protocols based on individual patient gene mutations.

SourceAmerican Journal of Pathology·JournalJournal of Molecular Diagnostics·DateDec 30, 2008

Study links molecule to muscle maturation, muscle cancer

A study by Ohio State University researchers found that the molecule miR-29 is essential for muscle repair and maturation, but its absence is linked to rhabdomyosarcoma cancer. Raising miR-29 levels in cancer cells slowed tumor growth and induced maturity.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateDec 30, 2008

Johns Hopkins scientists pull protein's tail to curtail cancer

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine have discovered a potential new approach to cancer therapy by manipulating the tail of a tumor suppressor protein. By removing its tail, the protein becomes active and can effectively suppress cancer growth.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 30, 2008

Vitamins C and E and beta carotene again fail to reduce cancer risk in randomized controlled trial

A randomized controlled trial found that women taking vitamin C, E, or beta carotene had a similar risk of cancer as those not taking the supplements. Antioxidant supplements were previously thought to lower cancer risk due to high fruit and vegetable intake, but this study contradicts those findings.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 30, 2008
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Errors involving medications common in outpatient cancer treatment

A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that medication errors involving chemotherapy are common in outpatient cancer treatment settings. The study revealed that adults and children alike were at risk of receiving incorrect doses or experiencing other medication-related mistakes.

SourceUMass Chan Medical School·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateDec 30, 2008

Experts uncover weakness in Internet security

Researchers discovered a weakness in the MD5 algorithm that allows for the creation of rogue certification authorities, which can be trusted by all major web browsers. This opens the door for virtually undetectable phishing attacks, compromising user passwords and private data.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateDec 30, 2008

Nuanced case for outsourcing by automakers, according to new Management Insights

A new INFORMS study suggests automakers must balance short-term price savings with long-term product life cycle implications when considering outsourcing production. The study finds that in-house development allows for higher performance improvement over the entire product life cycle.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManagement Science·DateDec 30, 2008
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.

Young blood fights cancer

Researchers at Tel Aviv University discovered that transfusions of 'young' blood –– blood stored for less than 9 days –– increased the odds of survival in animals with leukemia and breast cancer. Fresh blood may be a game-changer in cancer treatment, potentially improving survival rates.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalAnesthesiology·DateDec 30, 2008

Also in the Dec. 30 JNCI

Research suggests cisplatin ototoxicity is due to higher platinum concentration in inner ear, while high insulin levels are an independent risk factor for breast cancer. Studies found significant correlations between fasting insulin and increased breast cancer risk.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateDec 30, 2008

Education practices influence women engineer shortage, MU study finds

A University of Missouri study found that strong self-efficacy can help women succeed in engineering, but feeling included is a significant barrier. The research suggests changes to education practices can improve the pipeline for women engineers.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Engineering Education·DateDec 30, 2008

Gold nanoparticles for controlled drug delivery

Researchers at MIT have designed gold nanoparticles that can deliver multiple cancer drugs in a controlled fashion using infrared light. The system allows for precise timing of release, enabling treatment of diseases commonly treated with multiple drugs.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateDec 30, 2008

Cystic fibrosis patients' self-assessment of health can predict prognosis

Adult cystic fibrosis patients can accurately predict their mortality based on their own reported quality of life. Patient-reported pain was found to be a critical factor in determining survival rates, highlighting the importance of using patient-reported measures in clinical trials.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateDec 29, 2008
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.

Gene therapy reversed heart damage in heart failure

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University's Center for Translational Medicine successfully reversed heart damage in rats with heart failure using gene therapy. The treatment, which involves administering a peptide called βARKct, inhibited the activation of a kinase that contributes to heart failure deterioration.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalCirculation·DateDec 29, 2008

Grazing animals help spread plant disease

Researchers found that grazing animals like deer and rabbits increase the prevalence of a viral plant disease by promoting the growth of aphid-preferred annual grasses. This study challenges previous theories suggesting that herbivores help contain or reduce disease, highlighting the complexity of natural ecosystems.

SourceOregon State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 29, 2008

Can't chalk it up to 'baby fat'

A new study published in Pediatrics reveals that only 10% of overweight children receive a proper diagnosis, while 76% of severely obese children and 54% of obese children are accurately identified. The study emphasizes the need for early intervention and innovative solutions to improve pediatric weight detection.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateDec 29, 2008

Acute gastric injury due to high-dose analgesics?

A recent study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology investigated the gastrointestinal side effects of high-dose acetaminophen and NSAIDs. The research found that gastric lesions were similar between groups, indicating that acetaminophen is not entirely free of gastrointestinal side effects at high doses.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateDec 29, 2008

Study examines impact of managed care on stroke prevention surgery

A recent study by UT Southwestern Medical Center found that managed-care plans did not improve the quality or outcome of care for patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy. The study examined data from over 11,400 cases and found no difference in rates of inappropriate surgery between managed-care and fee-for-service plans.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Medical Quality·DateDec 29, 2008
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Global structures of the DE3 tide

Researchers found that the DE3 tide can propagate above 100km and exhibits a 2-year cycle oscillation. The tidal signal was analyzed using TIMED mission data, revealing two dominant Hough modes with annual unimodal distribution.

SourceScience China Press·JournalChinese Science Bulletin·DateDec 29, 2008

Facial expressions of emotion are innate, not learned, says new study

A new study by San Francisco State University Psychology Professor David Matsumoto found that facial expressions of emotion are innate and not learned. The research shows that sighted and blind individuals use the same facial expressions in response to emotional stimuli.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateDec 29, 2008

Fungal pill could provide asthma relief for 150,000 UK sufferers

Researchers discovered that pills used to treat fungal infections improve symptoms of asthma in those with an allergic reaction to fungi. Nearly 60% of patients taking the drug showed significant improvement.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateDec 29, 2008

Flowering plants speed post-surgery recovery

A study by Seong-Hyun Park and Richard H. Mattson found that hospital patients with plants in their rooms had fewer intakes of pain medication and more positive physiological responses. Patients interacted with the plants, such as watering and pruning, indicating a therapeutic benefit.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateDec 29, 2008
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.

Vidalia onions: Alternative to hand-transplanting proven effective

A study by American Society for Horticultural Science evaluated direct-seeding short-day onions in southeastern Georgia. Direct seeding was found to be a cost-effective alternative to traditional hand-transplanting methods, which rely on a migrant labor force.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateDec 29, 2008

Anti-fungal drug offers great benefits to some with severe asthma

A study by The University of Manchester found that patients with severe asthma and allergic sensitivity to certain fungi experience significant improvements in quality of life and lung function after taking an antifungal drug. However, symptoms often return after treatment is stopped.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateDec 29, 2008

Web-based case studies help students develop career skills

A survey of employers highlights the importance of technical knowledge, practical application, and problem-solving skills for landscaping and horticulture students. Web-based case studies utilizing technology provide students with practical experience in solving complex scenarios.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateDec 29, 2008

A win-win: U-pick pumpkin farms recycle urban leaves

Researchers found that applying municipal leaves to soil surface increased clean pumpkin fruit percentage by up to 25% compared to bare soil. This study provides a win-win solution for farmers and taxpayers, reducing leaf disposal costs while improving soil health.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateDec 29, 2008

University of Maryland researchers identify common gene variant linked to high blood pressure

A study by University of Maryland researchers has identified a common gene variant associated with an increased risk of developing high blood pressure. The STK39 gene produces a protein that helps regulate salt processing in the kidneys, which plays a key role in determining blood pressure.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 29, 2008
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.

Chronic gastrointestinal symptoms in Korean population

Chronic gastrointestinal symptoms such as GERD, uninvestigated dyspepsia, and IBS are common in the Korean population. These conditions significantly impair quality of life, particularly in females, the elderly, and those with lower economic classes.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateDec 29, 2008

New use for human hair

A recent study found that adding human hair waste cubes to commercial growth medium can increase plant yields relative to untreated controls. However, results showed lower yields compared to inorganic fertilizers, suggesting hair waste should not be used as a single source for fast-growing crops like lettuce.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateDec 29, 2008

Another reason to get your hands dirty

A recent study by Kansas State University researchers found that gardening provides moderate-intensity physical activity, influencing whole-body bone mineral density and improving mental health. Gardening tasks change throughout the season, making it a great way for older adults to meet recommended physical activity levels.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateDec 29, 2008

UC Davis researchers find molecule that targets brain tumors

Researchers at UC Davis Cancer Center have discovered a molecule called LXY1 that targets glioblastoma, a deadly form of brain cancer. The molecule binds to alpha-3 integrin on cancer cells, allowing for direct delivery of treatments and sparing normal tissues.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalEuropean Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateDec 29, 2008
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.