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Science News Archive 2008 - Page 161


Page 161 of 240

When statins aren't enough: New trial drug points to better management of coronary heart disease

Researchers found that darapladib safely and effectively lowers Lp-PLA2 activity, an enzyme associated with inflammation and increased risk for heart attack and stroke. The drug may reduce plaque inflammation and lower rates of clot formation among patients with coronary heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·DateMay 8, 2008

Surprising discovery: Multicellular response is 'all for one'

A Northwestern University study has discovered that multicellular organisms respond to stress in an integrated manner, with two specialized neurons controlling the response of individual cells. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that cells within a multicellular organism respond individually to stress conditions.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateMay 8, 2008

Model successfully predicts large river system fish diversity

Researchers used a neutral model to predict fish diversity in the Mississippi-Missouri River System, demonstrating its potential for analyzing complex systems. The approach, which assumes functional equivalence among species, provides new insights into biodiversity patterns and their relationship with environmental change.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature·DateMay 8, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How slow growth as a fetus can cause diabetes as an adult

Research using a rat model of intrauterine growth retardation found reduced Pdx1 expression in pancreatic beta-cells throughout life following IUGR. The molecular mechanisms affecting Pdx1 expression were reversible in the fetus and after birth, but irreversible in adulthood, providing new insight into diabetes development.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 8, 2008

JCI online early table of contents: May 8, 2008

Researchers found that slow fetal growth is linked to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes in adulthood. They also identified a new gene mutation associated with sudden cardiac death in humans. The study used rat models and human tissue samples to understand the mechanisms behind these diseases.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 8, 2008

Stroke survivors walk better after human-assisted rehab

A recent study found that walking therapy for stroke survivors is significantly more effective when conducted by a physical therapist, improving walking speed and symmetry. Human-assisted interventions allow for patient error and harder work, leading to better outcomes.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateMay 8, 2008

NCAR installs 76-teraflop supercomputer for critical research on climate change, severe weather

The National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) has installed a new IBM supercomputer called Bluefire, which will accelerate research into climate change and severe weather events. The system, with a peak speed of over 76 teraflops, is expected to rank among the world's top 25 most powerful computers.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·DateMay 8, 2008
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.

Made-to-order isotopes hold promise on science's frontier

Researchers at Michigan State University have developed a method to create specific rare isotopes for scientific research, opening doors to new technologies. This capability promises to advance fields like biomedicine, international security, and nuclear energy.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalScience·DateMay 8, 2008

Justice in the brain: Equity and efficiency are encoded differently

A study using fMRI scans found that people prioritize equity over efficiency in allocating donations, with the brain responding differently to both. The insula region was activated by changes in equity, while the putamen responded to efficiency, with the caudate integrating both factors after a decision was made.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScience·DateMay 8, 2008

New evidence from earliest known human settlement in the Americas

The Monte Verde site in southern Chile provides conclusive evidence of the earliest known human settlement in the Americas, dating back to 14,220 years ago. The discovery supports the theory that early migrants followed the Pacific Coast and confirms the peopling of the Americas was a slower process than previously thought.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalScience·DateMay 8, 2008

Scientists identify key roadblock to gene expression

Researchers have mapped nucleosome organization along genes in Drosophila melanogaster, revealing a critical stop sign for transcription. This discovery highlights the importance of nucleosomes in regulating gene expression and has implications for developing effective anti-viral drugs against HIV.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature·DateMay 8, 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.

Do antidepressants enhance immune function?

Researchers found that antidepressant medications increased natural killer cell activity in HIV-infected women with and without depression. The study suggests a potential link between antidepressant treatment and improved innate immunity, which could delay HIV disease progression.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateMay 8, 2008

Phase III pivotal results presented of VYVANSE to treat ADHD in adults

A phase III pivotal study showed VYVANSE significantly improved ADHD symptoms in adults, including inattention and hyperactivity. The medication provided a 43% reduction in ADHD Rating Scale (ADHD-RS-IV) scores and was associated with a 60% improvement rate on the Clinical Global Impressions-Improvement (CGI-I) scale.

SourcePorter Novelli·DateMay 8, 2008

Risks for painkiller abuse do not outweigh benefits in chronic pain

Research presented at the American Pain Society annual meeting found that less than 3% of patients with no history of drug abuse who are prescribed opioids for chronic pain will show signs of possible drug abuse or dependence. Most chronic pain patients do not rely on drugs as a sole solution, and multi-faceted treatment involving phys...

SourceAmerican Pain Society·DateMay 8, 2008

New technique measures ultrashort laser pulses at focus

Researchers developed a device to measure complex ultrashort light pulses in space and time at the focus of lenses, addressing distortions caused by optical components. The SEA TADPOLE system uses interferometry to determine pulse shape and intensity changes in space and time, enabling accurate correction for aberrations.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology Research News·JournalOptics Express·DateMay 8, 2008

Taking the sex out of sexual health screening

A study found that young Australian women would accept age-based chlamydia screening, but prefer it be offered universally, rather than based on their sexual history. The researchers suggest that detailed sexual history should not be required before testing women for chlamydia to improve screening rates and reduce stigma.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Infectious Diseases·DateMay 8, 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.

CIHR news: health research touching lives

The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) has announced over $298 million in funding for 764 health research projects across Canada. The funded research will focus on addressing important health issues like cancer, heart disease, and HIV/AIDS.

SourceCanadian Institutes of Health Research·DateMay 7, 2008

Over the back fence: gardeners get advice from neighbors, friends

A survey of Minnesota gardeners found that 78% preferred informal advice from friends and neighbors over university extension services. University information was viewed as higher quality but lacked convenient online access, posing a challenge to universities and arboreta.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortTechnology·DateMay 7, 2008
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.

Prisoner HIV program leads to continuum of medical care after release

The study found that 95% of participants completed the program, linking them to medical care for a year after release. This continuity of care improved health outcomes, reduced costs, and may have reduced HIV transmission. Researchers credited the use of professional social workers with the program's success.

SourceLifespan·JournalJournal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved·DateMay 7, 2008

Power from formic acid

Researchers from Rostock have developed a feasible process for the on-demand release of hydrogen, generating it at room temperature from formic acid. The use of formic acid allows the advantages of established hydrogen/oxygen fuel cell technology to be combined with those of liquid fuels.

SourceWiley·DateMay 7, 2008

Amazon under threat from cleaner air

Climate scientists warn that reducing sulphur dioxide emissions from coal burning could lead to increased sea surface temperatures in the tropical north Atlantic, causing droughts in the Amazon rainforest. The study estimates a heightened risk of drought every other year by 2025 and nine out of ten years by 2060.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature·DateMay 7, 2008

Obesity can increase dementia risk by up to 80 percent

Research found obesity increases dementia risk by 80%, while being underweight also poses a significant threat. The study, published in Obesity Reviews, analyzed data from over 37,000 people and estimated that 12% of dementia risk can be attributed to obesity.

SourceWiley·JournalObesity Reviews·DateMay 7, 2008

When bears steal human food, mom's not to blame

Researchers found that black bears acquire behavior to conflict with humans through social learning and isolation, challenging the assumption that mother bears teach their cubs. The study indicates that 56% of mothers did not share behavioral habits with their offspring.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalJournal of Mammalogy·DateMay 7, 2008
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.

Medical research is essential to improving the economy and bettering lives

The American Society of Nephrology emphasizes the importance of medical research in improving healthcare and reducing costs. Research advancements have led to cost-effective solutions such as vaccines and disease treatments, benefiting human lives and the economy.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 7, 2008

Climate models overheat Antarctica, new study finds

A new study by NCAR and Ohio State University found that climate models consistently overstate Antarctic warming, but still project significant sea-level rise due to melting ice sheets. The researchers suggest that warmer temperatures could slow down or speed up sea-level rise depending on future temperature increases.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 7, 2008
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.

Ultrasound first, not CT, for diagnosing suspected acute appendicitis

A new study suggests that color Doppler ultrasound is the preferred imaging modality for diagnosing suspected acute appendicitis in adults, with a 97% specificity rate and 74% sensitivity rate. The test's advantages include lack of radiation exposure and lower cost compared to CT scans.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateMay 7, 2008

A new breakthrough on the pathogenesis of fulminant hepatic failure

Research led by Dr. Yi-Jia Lou suggests that LTC4 synthesis enzymes contribute to liver injury in a rat FHF model, leading to accumulation of cys-LTs. The study's findings imply further investigation into the expression and activity of these enzymes in managing viral hepatitis patients.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 7, 2008

Immune system pathway identified to fight allergens, asthma

A University of Pittsburgh School Medicine study identified a key molecule, c-Kit, that plays a central role in the allergic response. Targeting this element could lead to more effective drugs for treating asthma and allergies.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalNature Medicine·DateMay 7, 2008
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.

UCSF receives funding for building from California stem cell agency

The University of California, San Francisco has received a $34.9 million grant from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine to construct a regenerative medicine building on its campus. The facility will house 25 principal investigators and their teams at full capacity, driving the cross-pollination of scientific ideas.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateMay 7, 2008

How does insulin-like growth factor I protect liver function?

IGF-I exerts mitochondrial protection in experimental cirrhosis, reducing caspase activation and increasing ATP production. IGF-I supplementation shows beneficial effects on liver function and fibrosis in animal models.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 7, 2008

Biodiversity -- it's in the water

Researchers demonstrate that a simple method using river network geometry and rainfall data can accurately predict fish species diversity patterns in the Mississippi-Missouri basin. The model, which uses just four parameters, captures complex biodiversity patterns without referencing individual fish species.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·DateMay 7, 2008
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Is there new chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer?

Researchers assessed various regimens for treating advanced gastric cancer and found that new agent-containing regimens can achieve higher response rates. Chemotherapy with 5-fluorouracil remains a mainstream treatment option, prolonging median survival time for AGC patients.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 7, 2008

Vitamin D linked to reduced mortality rate in CKD

A study found that activated vitamin D may reduce the risk of death by approximately one-fourth in patients with CKD, with a 20% reduction in the risk of either death or dialysis

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateMay 7, 2008

Silicon's effect on sunflowers studied

A study by Drs. Sophia Kamenidou and Todd J. Cavins found that silicon supplementation improved horticultural traits in greenhouse-produced sunflowers, such as increased stem diameter and flower quality, but also caused growth abnormalities at high concentrations.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateMay 7, 2008

Duck-billed platypus genome sequence published

The first duck-billed platypus genome analysis reveals clues about early mammalian genome organization and the evolution of unique characteristics. The study found that the platypus shares more than 80% of its genes with other mammals, but also has distinct genetic features associated with reptilian and avian traits.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalNature·DateMay 7, 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.

St. Jude finds 'dancing' hair cells are key to humans' acute hearing

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that the prestin protein embedded in outer hair cell membranes plays a critical role in amplifying sound signals. This discovery sheds light on the mechanisms behind acute hearing loss due to genetic mutations or drug overdoses.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNeuron·DateMay 7, 2008

Seagulls: Are males the weaker sex?

Researchers found that males hatch faster than females when isolated, but are disadvantaged in social environments, leading to poorer hatching conditions. Females have an upper hand in responding to environmental challenges during embryonic development.

SourceSpringer·JournalBehavioral Ecology and Sociobiology·DateMay 7, 2008

Platypus genome sequence published

The platypus genome sequence published by UK researchers reveals a mix of mammalian, bird-like and reptilian features in the species' genetic blueprint. The analysis found that platypus venom is a cocktail of proteins originally with different functions, similar to those in reptile venom.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature·DateMay 7, 2008

After divorce, stable families help minimize long-term harm to children

A new study found that children who lived in unstable family situations after their parents divorced fared worse as adults compared to those with stable post-divorce family situations. These children experienced lower education levels, income, and occupational prestige, as well as higher poverty rates.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Marriage and Family·DateMay 7, 2008

First analysis of platypus genome may impact disease prevention

Researchers have completed the first analysis of platypus DNA, revealing insights into gene regulation and immune systems that may lead to advances in human disease prevention. The study's findings also provide new perspectives on mammalian evolution and conservation efforts.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalNature·DateMay 7, 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.

Molecular espionage shows a single HIV enzyme's many tasks

Researchers have discovered that reverse transcriptase, the target of major anti-HIV drugs, can flip between binding orientations to facilitate two distinct catalytic activities. This dynamic behavior is regulated by nonnucleoside RT inhibitors, which hinder the enzyme's ability to convert single-stranded DNA to double-stranded DNA.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·DateMay 7, 2008

UCI awarded $27.2 million for new stem cell building

The UCI Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center will house up to 26 researchers, a master's program in biotechnology, and programs educating patients and the public. The facility is expected to advance stem cell therapies for treating spinal cord injuries and other diseases.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateMay 7, 2008

Breast cancer tumors grow faster in younger women

Researchers found that tumour growth rates vary considerably among patients, with generally slower growth rates with increasing age at diagnosis. The new model estimated the mean time for a tumour to double in size from 10 to 20 mm in diameter is 1.7 years.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBreast Cancer Research·DateMay 7, 2008

MIT study suggests caution on new anti-obesity drug in kids

A new MIT study found that a class of anti-obesity drugs could interfere with neural development in young children by blocking brain receptors similar to those in marijuana. The research, conducted on mice, suggests caution when using these compounds in kids.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNeuron·DateMay 7, 2008
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.

Alternatives to ozone-depleting pesticide studied

Scientists evaluated eight chemical alternatives to methyl bromide, finding some controlled weeds as consistently as the banned pesticide but at lower yields. Environmental factors also affected results, highlighting the need for further research and management strategies.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateMay 7, 2008

Obesity linked to increased risk for dementia

A systematic review of 10 studies found a consistent relationship between obesity and an increased risk for dementia, with baseline obesity increasing the risk by 80% on average. Preventing or treating obesity at a younger age could reduce the number of dementia patients by up to 20%.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalObesity Reviews·DateMay 7, 2008

New target for Alzheimer's disease identified

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have found that modulating enkephalin peptides in the brain may reduce cognitive deficits seen in Alzheimer's disease. Increased levels of preproenkephalin mRNA and enkephalins in brain regions affected by AD were observed, suggesting a potential new therapy target.

SourceGladstone Institutes·DateMay 7, 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.