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Science News for April 3, 2008


Enzyme complex could be key to new cancer treatments

Researchers observed a group of six enzymes forming a cluster in living cells, which are essential for cell replication and DNA production. This discovery could lead to new cancer treatments by disrupting purine synthesis and halting cancer cell replication.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience·DateApr 3, 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.

Smithsonian researchers show major role of bats in plant protection

Researchers at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute found that bats are more effective pest control agents than birds in a lowland tropical rainforest. In the study, plants lost 13.3% of their leaf area when only bats were excluded, compared to 7.2% with only birds excluded.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalScience·DateApr 3, 2008

Aripiprazole has potential for treating alcohol dependence

Researchers found that aripiprazole reduced the pleasurable effects of alcohol and made drinkers sleepier, suggesting its potential as a treatment for alcohol dependence. The study's findings suggest a balance between useful and aversive effects may be achieved with aripiprazole.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateApr 3, 2008

Rare genetic syndrome may hold key to cure for heat stroke

A genetic disorder linked to fatal muscle contractions during anesthesia may also be connected to heat stroke, according to new research. The study found that antioxidants could protect against heat stroke in genetically prone individuals.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalCell·DateApr 3, 2008
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.

High-flying moths don't just go with the flow

Scientists have found that migratory moths use various strategies to control their flight direction and speed, including selecting favorable wind directions and compensating for wind drift. These findings provide the first conclusive evidence for a compass mechanism in nocturnal insect migration.

SourceCell Press·DateApr 3, 2008

Continuous oral contraceptives better at easing pain, bleeding

Researchers found that continuous oral contraceptives significantly improved pain and behavioral changes in women compared to standard 28-day birth control pills. The study also showed a significant decrease in moderate to heavy bleeding days among women who received the continuous birth control regimen.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateApr 3, 2008

Traders who sell short stocks are well-informed

Researchers found that short selling activity is widespread across large and small NYSE stocks, accounting for at least 12.9% of trading volume. Short sellers can identify overvalued stocks and profit by anticipating price declines, indicating they are extremely well-informed.

SourceWiley·DateApr 3, 2008

Preliminary DNA analysis completed on California wolverine

Preliminary results from DNA analysis of wolverine scat samples collected on the Tahoe National Forest do not match those of historic California wolverine populations. The animal is identified as a male wolverine that does not genetically match populations in Washington or Southern Sierra Nevada.

SourceUSDA Forest Service - Pacific Southwest Research Station·DateApr 3, 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.

Active living in diverse and disadvantaged communities

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's Active Living Research Program highlights the need for tailored interventions to address disparities in physical activity participation among underserved communities. The special issue identifies safety concerns related to crime as a key barrier to active living, while also pointing towards policy a...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateApr 3, 2008

Academy establishes Asia Center to protect the environment

The Academy's Asia Center aims to study, protect, and sustainably use environmental resources in Asia. Researchers will train faculty and students to monitor Lake Tai in China and apply knowledge to address climate change and water quality issues.

SourceAcademy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University·DateApr 3, 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.

A place in the sun

Researchers at the Salk Institute discovered a key enzyme involved in auxin synthesis, which allows plants to stretch towards sunlight. This breakthrough could lead to increased crop yields by manipulating the plant's response to shade avoidance syndrome.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalCell·DateApr 3, 2008

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

Proximity to a flood zone lowers property values

A recent study found that properties located within a floodplain have significantly lower sales prices compared to those outside the flood zone. The estimated price reduction is 7.3% on average, with a total loss of $11,600.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Risk & Insurance·DateApr 3, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Climate change -- research suggests it is not a swindle

A new study published in Environmental Research Letters finds no correlation between cosmic rays and cloud cover, contradicting a 2007 TV program that suggested global warming is caused by a decrease in cosmic rays. The researchers from Lancaster and Durham Universities analyzed data and found no reliable connection between the two.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateApr 3, 2008

Researchers learn how signaling molecule orchestrates breast cancer's spread

A study led by Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center researchers reveals that breast cancer cells use a signaling molecule called TGF-a to enhance their ability to spread to the lungs. This finding has significant implications for developing therapies to prevent metastasis in cancer patients.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalCell·DateApr 3, 2008

Mitosis gets harder thanks to new gene discovery

Researchers at the University of Bath discovered that RASSF7 is crucial for building microtubules during mitosis, a process that allows cells to divide in two. Without this protein, cell division is halted, highlighting its potential as a future cancer treatment target.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalMolecular Biology of the Cell·DateApr 3, 2008

NC State researchers identify genes key to hormone production in plants

Researchers at NC State University have identified a small group of genes responsible for regulating hormone production in plants. The study found that the TAA1 gene is essential for auxin synthesis and that its disruption can lead to reduced auxin levels, affecting plant growth and development.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalCell·DateApr 3, 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.

AGU Journalism Awards won by Margaret Munro and Dr. Richard Smith

Margaret Munro won the David Perlman Award for her article on the collapse of a Canadian ice shelf, while Dr. Richard Smith received the Walter Sullivan Award for his documentary film 'Crude'. The awards recognize outstanding science journalism with deadline pressure and lead time.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·DateApr 3, 2008

Cultural biases may influence parenting studies, scientist finds

Researchers conducted a study on Chinese and American parenting behaviors to understand cultural differences. They found that cultural biases can affect the analysis of behaviors, leading to inaccurate conclusions about parenting styles across cultures. The authors recommend using a combination of researchers from both cultures to mini...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalSocial Development·DateApr 3, 2008
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.

Hatchery fish outnumber wild chinook salmon in troubled fall run

A study by University of California - Santa Cruz researchers found that 90% of California's fall-run Chinook salmon population comes from hatcheries. The findings are troubling given the decline in natural populations, which may force commercial and recreational fishing to close.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalCanadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences·DateApr 3, 2008

Food for thought

A meta-analysis of over 50 studies found that bird feeding can lead to immediate positive outcomes, such as increased chick survival, but also creates ecological traps and disrupts natural selection. The study highlights the need for more comprehensive research on the impact of bird feeding on ecosystems.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateApr 3, 2008

Hybrid computer materials may lead to faster, cheaper technology

A University of Missouri researcher is part of a multi-university team developing hybrid materials that combine magnetic and semiconductor functions. This innovation aims to create devices that operate at higher speeds and use less power than current electronic devices.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateApr 3, 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.

Are animals stuck in time?

A recent study by William Roberts and his team found that rats can keep track of how much time has passed since a discovery, but not when it occurred. The researchers used an experiment with varying cues to test the rats' ability to remember episodic-like memories.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·JournalScience·DateApr 3, 2008

The Lancet introduces 2 new partnerships in global health

The Lancet launches a new partnership with the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation to monitor global health trends. The journal also establishes a joint Commission with University College London to study and report on managing the health effects of climate change.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 3, 2008

Stem cell breakthrough offers diabetes hope

Scientists have discovered a way to genetically manipulate embryonic stem cells into insulin-producing pancreatic tissue, potentially treating type-1 and type-2 diabetes. The team found that the transcription factor PAX4 encouraged high numbers of stem cells to become beta cells with insulin-producing capabilities.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 3, 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.

Harmful algae taking advantage of global warming

Cyanobacteria blooms are becoming more frequent and widespread due to global warming, posing a threat to human health and water ecosystems. The algae can cause digestive, neurological, and skin diseases in humans, and deplete oxygen in water reservoirs.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalScience·DateApr 3, 2008

A little anxiety pays sometimes, study shows

Researchers found that higher levels of brain activation in the anterior insula region can help individuals learn to avoid losses and financial risks, but excessive activity may be problematic. A healthy amount of anxiety grants survival value, but too much can lead to excessive worry and clinical conditions.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 3, 2008

Unlocking mysteries of brain cancer, stroke

Researchers at the University of Adelaide will study links between brain chemistry and fatal outcomes from brain tumors and strokes. They aim to find out why these conditions become deadly, with a focus on swelling caused by tumors and cancer cells entering the central nervous system.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·DateApr 3, 2008

Clinical trial will test new HIV/AIDS vaccine

A new HIV/AIDS vaccine is being tested in a phase 1 clinical trial at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. The vaccine uses a replication-incompetent adenovirus vector encoding an HIV-1 envelope gene, aiming to overcome the problem of preexisting immunity to common vaccine vectors.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·DateApr 3, 2008

LSU spotlights strong African American marriages

Research by Louisiana State University sheds light on positive, long-lasting African American marriages, challenging the 'deficit perspective' that emphasizes problems. The study reveals four key themes: overcoming external challenges, resolving intramarital conflict, and maintaining unity through shared values.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalFamily Relations·DateApr 3, 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.

Pregnant mothers' diet linked to baby's obesity

Research published in Lipids in Health and Disease found that pregnant and lactating rats fed a diet rich in hydrogenated fats had babies with increased fat content. The study also showed that the gene expression of adipokines was affected, leading to changes in insulin production.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalLipids in Health and Disease·DateApr 3, 2008

Researchers uncover new genetic links to psoriasis

A comprehensive study of the genetic basis of psoriasis has discovered seven new sites of common DNA variation that increase the risk of this skin condition. The variations were found to be strongly linked to psoriatic arthritis and other autoimmune disorders, paving the way for more targeted therapies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateApr 3, 2008

Keep on running

Research published in Dynamic Medicine found that low levels of physical activity and aerobic fitness in children are associated with metabolic syndrome, a precursor to heart disease. The study suggests that efforts to increase exercise from an early age can help prevent the development of metabolic syndrome.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalDynamic Medicine·DateApr 3, 2008
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.

Possible link found between earthquakes along the Cascadia and San Andreas faults

Researchers have found a potential link between seismic activity on the southern Cascadia Subduction fault and major earthquakes along the northern San Andreas Fault. The study suggests that Cascadia earthquakes may trigger San Andreas earthquakes, with an average recurrence rate of approximately 220 years for both faults.

SourceSeismological Society of America·JournalBulletin of the Seismological Society of America·DateApr 3, 2008

Researchers uncover new genetic links to psoriasis

Scientists discovered seven new DNA variations linked to psoriasis, which also increased the risk of four autoimmune diseases. The study found a strong genetic component underlying these conditions, paving the way for targeted treatments.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateApr 3, 2008

Pioneer of paramedic model to be honored

Dr. Criley developed the paramedic model in 1969, training firefighters to provide emergency care to heart attack victims. The program was later adopted nationwide, thanks in part to a TV show about it, and continues to save lives today.

SourceLA BioMed·DateApr 3, 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.

Male partner violence severely affects women's health

A recent WHO multi-country study found that ever experiencing physical or sexual partner violence is linked to poor health overall and specific health problems. Women who experienced partner violence reported more emotional distress, suicidal thoughts, or attempts than those who never experienced abuse.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 3, 2008

1 large organic shade-grown coffee, please -- with extra bats

A recent University of Michigan study reveals that Mexican organic coffee bat populations are crucial in controlling insects that damage coffee crops. Using a new 'perch and wait' hunting technique, bats outperform birds by 84% in reducing insect density during the summer wet season.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScience·DateApr 3, 2008