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Science News Archive 2008


Page 196 of 240

New insight into the genetics of brain tumor formation

Researchers identify KIFBbeta as a potential new neuronal tumor suppressor gene that mediates apoptosis in neural crest-derived tumors. The study suggests that KIFBbeta provides a protective effect against the development of these tumors.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers develop method to rapidly ID optimal drug cocktails

A new feedback control scheme can search for the most effective drug combinations to treat various conditions, including cancers and infections. The discovery holds promise for facilitating new clinical drug-cocktail trials and optimizing combination therapies while reducing side effects.

Testicular cancer gauge often not used

Researchers found that only about 45% of cases used tumor markers AFP and HCG, with all three markers measured in just 16% of the time. This suggests low usage rates despite the importance of tumor markers in showing patient response to treatment and disease recurrence.

Body mass index higher among bariatric surgery patients with 2 genetic variations

A study of 707 morbidly obese adult patients undergoing gastric bypass surgery found that those with two genetic obesity variations had significantly higher BMIs. The presence of these genetic variants may overcome the effects of bariatric surgery, highlighting their potential as susceptibility genes for postoperative weight gain.

Asia's odd-ball antelope faces migration crisis

A recent study found a narrow corridor of habitat in Mongolia threatened by herders and increased traffic, posing a migration bottleneck for the endangered saiga antelope. The species, known for its distinctive nose, has seen its numbers plummet by 95% due to poaching and competition with livestock.

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.

Loss of egg yolk genes in mammals and the origin of lactation and placentation

Researchers found that milk-protein genes arose in the mammalian common ancestor and preceded the loss of egg protein genes. This transition allowed mammals to feed their young via the placenta and with milk, abandoning eggs as a source of nutrition. The study provides insights into the origins of lactation and placentation in mammals.

Work with power grids leads to cell biology discovery

Researchers at Northwestern University discovered a counterintuitive approach to gene therapy that targets the removal of genes to restore cellular function. This method has implications for medical research and optimizing metabolic processes used in biofuel production.

Blood disease protects against malaria in an unexpected way

A new study reveals that children with a mild form of alpha thalassemia have more red blood cells, which provides an advantage against life-threatening malarial anemia. This adaptation allows them to tolerate massive blood cell loss during severe malaria attacks.

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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An anti-inflammatory response to the vegan diet

A study published in Arthritis Research & Therapy found that a gluten-free vegan diet can lower cholesterol and oxidized LDL levels, while raising natural antibodies against phosphorylcholine in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. This may help protect against heart attacks and stroke.

Fungi can tell us about the origin of sex chromosomes

A new study reveals similarities between DNA that determine mating types in fungi and those that determine sex in plants and animals. This makes fungi an interesting model organism for studying the evolutionary development of sex chromosomes.

Botox for newborns

Botox has been found effective in reducing hypersalivation in newborns with CHARGE Syndrome, preventing tracheotomies. The treatment involves injecting a minute dose of Botox into the salivary glands to block nerve activity and reduce saliva production.

Scientists shine new light on inflammatory diseases

Researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery discovered a new mechanism involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. The study reveals that tumor necrosis factor (TNF) activates macrophages to produce interferon-beta, leading to sustained expression of genes encoding inflammatory molecules.

UT-ORNL and UCSD researchers find promise in HIV 'switch'

Researchers have discovered a way to manipulate the lengths of genetic pulses in HIV, favoring latency over replication. This finding offers promise for developing new treatments, as the 'switch' is a key factor in determining whether the virus becomes active.

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.

Scientists identify new leads for treating parasitic worm disease

Researchers have identified chemical compounds, oxadiazoles, that inhibit a crucial enzyme vital to the survival of Schistosoma parasites causing schistosomiasis. The compounds showed promise in killing the parasite in all stages and were active against major species.

Researchers discover second depth-perception method in brain

Researchers at the University of Rochester have discovered a second depth-perception method in the brain, combining visual cues with motion and perspective to create a representation of three-dimensional space. This new mechanism may help restore binocular vision in children with misaligned eyes and improve virtual reality experiences.

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.

People with Job's syndrome lack specific immune cells

Job's syndrome sufferers lack Th17 cells, a type of infection-fighting white blood cell, leading to recurrent and severe infections. The study reveals the importance of Th17 cells in protecting against Staphylococcus bacteria and certain fungal infections.

Story ideas from the Journal of Lipid Research

Researchers found that bile acid derivatives can activate the vitamin D receptor without causing calcium buildup, suggesting a new therapeutic direction. Additionally, overexpressing lipoprotein lipase in mice improved their tolerance to cold temperatures by increasing muscular thermogenesis.

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.

Gene variant increases breast cancer risk

A study found two gene variants in the AKAP protein family to be linked to an elevated breast cancer risk, particularly in women from breast cancer families. These variants, located on the AKAP9 gene, were found to increase the risk by 17% and 27% respectively.

Genes that protect against atherosclerosis identified

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered a network of genes that lower blood cholesterol levels and prevent the development of atherosclerotic plaques. The findings suggest that targeting these genes could be an effective way to combat atherosclerosis, the main cause of myocardial infarction and stroke.

Mathematicians find new solutions to an ancient puzzle

Researchers Daniel J. Madden and Lee W. Jacobi have found an infinite number of solutions to Euler's Equation of degree four, a centuries-old mathematical puzzle. They used elliptic curves to generate new solutions, which are more efficient than previous methods.

Breast cancer more aggressive among obese women

Women with breast cancer who are obese experience more aggressive disease, including higher rates of inflammatory breast cancer and increased risk of recurrence. Obesity can lead to weight gain during treatment, further increasing the risk of recurrence.

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.

Swiss Systems Biology Initiative announces Flagship Projects

The Swiss Systems Biology Initiative has announced eight Flagship Projects involving 79 research groups from 11 universities and institutions. The projects focus on basic biological questions, including lipid roles in cells and decision-making mechanisms in the brain. Funding for these initiatives will be at least CHF90 million.

Role for microRNAs in limb regeneration

Research reveals that microRNA depletion is necessary for tissue regeneration and that manipulating certain microRNA levels can enhance regenerative success in zebrafish. By tweaking the FGF signaling pathway, scientists were able to increase or decrease specific microRNA levels, resulting in improved or inhibited fin regeneration.

Mayo researchers say ECG standards should be revised for elderly

A study published in the American Journal of Geriatric Cardiology found that established ECG norms for older adults may need to be revised. The research team analyzed over 700 patient readings and discovered that average cutoffs for measuring ECG intervals were greater than current norms, particularly in men.

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.

Minority, low-income diabetics least likely to monitor their blood glucose

A study by the American Heart Association found that minority and financially vulnerable adults with insulin-treated diabetes are less likely to monitor their blood glucose levels. The disparities were greatest for low-income Hispanics, with significantly lower rates of daily self-monitoring compared to whites.

MicroRNAs help zebrafish regenerate fins

Biologists at Duke University Medical Center have discovered microRNAs that control the regeneration of zebrafish fins. The study found that reducing levels of one microRNA, miR-133, speeds up fin regrowth, while increasing it slows it down. This discovery could lead to new ways to stimulate human tissue regeneration.

The business of natural selection

Researchers develop algorithm to analyze financial data and predict company failure, outperforming single-approach methods. The hybrid approach uses genetic-based weighting to identify fittest variables, allowing for accurate predictions of financial future.

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.

Researchers study new drug and indications for heated chemotherapy treatment

Researchers found that surgery combined with heated Intraperitoneal Hyperthermic Chemotherapy (IPHC) improves survival rates for patients with peritoneal carcinoma originating from colorectal or appendix cancer. The study also showed that IPHC may have some benefit in select patients with peritoneal carcinoma and hepatic metastases.

Meditation impacts blood pressure, study shows

A meta-analysis conducted at the University of Kentucky found Transcendental Meditation to be an effective treatment for controlling high blood pressure, with significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

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.

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.

Research illuminates link between Alzheimer's and stroke

Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center have identified a process in the brain that may link Alzheimer's disease to stroke. A peptide called p25 is believed to cause an increase in amyloid beta production, which is linked to Alzheimer's.

Researchers use light to detect Alzheimer's

Researchers have developed a method using near-infrared light to identify microscopic changes in brain tissue associated with Alzheimer's disease. This technique can potentially detect the disease earlier than current methods, which rely on clinical symptoms or imaging tests.

Scripps research team wins $4M grant to study effects of chronic marijuana use

The Scripps Research Institute has been awarded a $4M grant to study the effects of chronic marijuana use on cognitive function, withdrawal symptoms, and stress systems. The research center aims to develop effective treatments for marijuana addiction by pooling expertise in tissue analysis, imaging, animal models, and human clinical tr...

MGH initiates phase I diabetes trial

Scientists at MGH are exploring a potential cure for type 1 diabetes through a Phase I clinical trial. The trial uses the BCG vaccine, which has shown promising results in mouse models of autoimmune diabetes.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Pain-free childbirth? Get real!

A review of published literature on women's expectations and experience of pain and pain relief in labour reveals a gap between expectations and reality. Most women underestimate the intensity of pain they will experience and may not be prepared for the possibility that they might need pain relief.

Crop scientists discover gene that controls fruit shape

Researchers at Ohio State University have identified a key gene, SUN, controlling the elongated shape of tomatoes. This discovery sheds light on the genetic basis of fruit shape variation in various crops, including peppers and cucumbers.

Pain receptor in brain may be linked to learning and memory

A study by Brown University scientists has found that activation of the pain receptor TRPV1 can trigger long-term depression, creating lasting changes in neural connections. This process is believed to be the cellular basis for memory making, with implications for drug development and potentially treating neural disorders.

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.

News from the March 2008 American Physical Society Meeting

Researchers developed a DNA-guided method for controlling nanoparticle assembly, enabling precise manipulation of materials. Scientists also made progress in understanding the 'pseudogap' phenomenon in high-temperature superconductors, which could lead to improved superconductor design.