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Science News for April 30, 2008


UCLA stem cell researchers create heart and blood cells from reprogrammed skin cells

Scientists at UCLA have successfully differentiated induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells) into three types of cardiovascular cells, including cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, and vascular smooth muscle cells. This discovery could potentially lead to new therapies for heart attacks, atherosclerosis, and other cardiovascular disea...

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalStem Cells·DateApr 30, 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.

High rate of complicated idiopathic gallstone disease in pediatric patients

A study published in World Journal of Gastroenterology found that pediatric patients are affected by complicated idiopathic gallstone disease at a higher rate than previously thought. In the study, 58% of patients presented with complicated disease, with adolescent girls being particularly affected.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateApr 30, 2008

Does 1q31.1-32.1 harbor a tumor suppressor gene related to Chinese SCC patients?

A new study has identified a potential tumor suppressor gene related to Chinese colorectal cancer patients, located on the long arm of chromosome 1 (1q31.1-32.1). The researchers found a minimal region of frequent deletion in this area, which they believe may be responsible for the development of colorectal cancer in Chinese patients.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateApr 30, 2008

Daily aspirin may reduce risk of common type of breast cancer

Researchers found that daily aspirin use was associated with a small reduction in the risk of ER+ breast cancer, but not total breast cancer risk. Aspirin's irreversible effects on cyclooxygenase enzymes may disrupt breast cancer development by reducing estrogen production.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBreast Cancer Research·DateApr 30, 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.

Dual treatment of incontinence and dementia associated with functional decline

Researchers found that older adults with dementia and incontinence taking both medications experienced a 50% faster decline in function, from requiring limited assistance to complete dependence. The study highlights the potential risks of combining anticholinergic agents for incontinence and cholinesterase inhibitors for dementia.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateApr 30, 2008

International team of researchers explain how birds navigate

A research team from Arizona State University and the University of Oxford has synthesized a molecule that is sensitive to both the magnitude and direction of magnetic fields as weak as the Earth's. This discovery provides evidence for chemical magnetoreception, a mechanism that birds may use to navigate.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature·DateApr 30, 2008

Tree-lined streets mean lower rates of childhood asthma

Research suggests that areas with more street trees have lower rates of childhood asthma among 4-5 year olds and hospital admissions for older children. Tree density was found to be associated with reduced asthma prevalence, even after controlling for pollution and socioeconomic factors.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Epidemiology and Community Health·DateApr 30, 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.

Molecular change may reveal risk of leukemia relapse

Researchers discovered a link between microRNA levels and the risk of relapse in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. The study found that abnormal microRNA patterns were associated with an increased risk of recurrence, providing new insights into possible causes of the disease.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 30, 2008

DIAMOND to tackle UK nuclear waste issues

The DIAMOND consortium aims to address the £70 billion cost of decommissioning UK nuclear sites through research and innovation. The project will also provide training for the next generation of nuclear waste specialists to combat an EU-wide skills gap.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·DateApr 30, 2008

Synergistic growth inhibitory effect of herbal extracts against HCC and lung cancer cells

Research found that herbal extracts from Phyllanthus emblica and Terminalia bellerica exhibit synergistic growth inhibitory effects when combined with conventional cytotoxic agents like doxorubicin and cisplatin. This enhances therapeutic efficacy while minimizing side effects, offering a potential new approach to cancer treatment.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateApr 30, 2008

Are you looking at me?

Researchers at the University of Bristol demonstrate that birds respond to subtle signals from humans, including eye-gaze direction, to avoid predators. This ability allows starlings to gain valuable feeding time before others join a competitive foraging patch.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateApr 30, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A patient who was diagnosed as IPN-B without hepatolithiasis?

A new case report presents an interesting diagnosis of IPN-B with histopathological findings and emphasizes the importance of cholangiography in diagnosing bile duct dilatation. The patient's liver specimens showed intraductal papillary proliferation, fibrovascular cores, and carcinoma in situ.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateApr 30, 2008

UMCES-led research team quantifies nutrient pollution reductions from urban stream restoration

A UMCES-led research team has developed a new technology to quantify the environmental benefits of urban stream restoration, showing that stream restoration techniques can double nitrogen removal rates by microbes and reduce nitrogen levels in ground water. This breakthrough will help improve water quality in urban environments.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Center for Environmental Science·JournalEcological Applications·DateApr 30, 2008

United we stand: When cooperation butts heads with competition

Researchers found that individuals preferred contributing to in-group pool, which increases everyone's stash, without harming anyone. Participants who could consult with each other showed increased preference for cooperation, challenging common assumption of human competitiveness.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 30, 2008

AIBS honors outstanding contributions to the biological sciences

The American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) honored four award winners in 2008 for their significant contributions to the biological sciences. These individuals were recognized for their groundbreaking research, exceptional service to the scientific community, and dedication to education and environmental conservation.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·DateApr 30, 2008

UD chemical engineer honored for excellence in catalysis

Jingguang Chen, a University of Delaware chemical engineer, has won the 2008 Award for Excellence in Catalysis for his work on understanding the physical and chemical properties of bimetallic and metal carbide surfaces. His research has inspired new applications of fundamental studies to catalytic and fuel cell processes.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateApr 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.

'4-D' ionosphere map helps flyers, soldiers, ham radio operators

The '4D' ionosphere map provides a real-time, three-dimensional view of the ionosphere, allowing users to plan flights over the poles and predict potential radio blackouts. The tool uses satellite data to forecast changes in electron density and warn users of impending weather conditions.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateApr 30, 2008

Appelbaum wins DEPSCoR grant for spintronics research

Ian Appelbaum's $484,370 grant from the US Department of Defense will explore spin transport in silicon to enhance integrated circuit design and speed. His team has previously demonstrated successful electrical spin injection, transport, manipulation, and detection in pioneering research published in top journals.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateApr 30, 2008

The most natural drug

Researchers develop new process to identify and clone human antibodies tailored to fight specific infections, offering rapid and effective treatments for influenza and other diseases. The technology has the potential to provide therapy for existing infections or passive immunity against future infection.

SourceOklahoma Medical Research Foundation·JournalNature·DateApr 30, 2008
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

8 new human genome projects offer large-scale picture of genetic difference

Researchers have completed a nationwide consortium to sequence structural variations in the human genome, revealing 1695 regions of variation and discovering previously unknown DNA segments. The study provides a comprehensive map of genetic differences among individuals, shedding light on their role in human health and disease.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature·DateApr 30, 2008

Graphene-based gadgets may be just years away

Researchers at the University of Manchester have developed tiny liquid crystal devices with graphene electrodes, paving the way for computer and TV displays based on this technology. The graphene-based films are highly transparent and conductive, making them ideal for applications in various electro-optical devices.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 30, 2008

NASA satellite pins down timer in stellar ticking time bomb

Scientists have discovered a timing mechanism in neutron stars that allows them to predict when incredibly powerful X-ray bursts will occur, releasing energy equivalent to 100 hydrogen bombs exploding simultaneously.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateApr 30, 2008

Scientists find rings of Jupiter are shaped in shadow

Researchers from the University of Maryland and Max-Planck Institute found that Jupiter's outermost ring is extended beyond Thebe's orbit due to dust particles' electric charges interacting with the planet's magnetic field. This phenomenon affects any planet's rings, shedding light on planetary formation.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature·DateApr 30, 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.

Turning on cell-cell communication wipes out staph biofilms

University of Iowa researchers have successfully wiped out established Staphylococcus aureus biofilms by activating the bacteria's quorum-sensing system. The discovery offers insight into a dispersal mechanism for biofilms and might help identify new therapeutic targets to combat chronic infections.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateApr 30, 2008

Gastric juice for diagnosis of H. pylori infection in patients on proton pump inhibitors

A new gastric juice PCR test has been evaluated as a highly specific and rapid method for detecting H. pylori infection in patients taking acid-reducing drugs. The study found that the test was more accurate than other methods for diagnosing the infection, which is associated with various gastrointestinal diseases.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateApr 30, 2008

USC researcher reveals new model for embryonic limb development

Researchers have found a new model to explain how signals between cells in the embryo control limb development. Growth factors at the distal tip of the embryonic limb act as instructive molecules controlling bone pattern along the limb length in an animal model.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature·DateApr 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.

Anti-HBe may play a role in the progression of the disease of hepatitis B

Researchers found a significant association between anti-HBe antibodies and increased ALT levels among HBV-infected patients. Genotype D was the only type detected in different clinical forms of acute and chronic infections, with a higher prevalence of HBeAg-negative status among chronic hepatitis patients.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateApr 30, 2008

Biologists are from Mars, chemists are from Venus?

A two-year project at the University of Delaware investigates how scientists bridge disciplinary boundaries, finding that individuals can narrow back to niche specialization. The team also observes differences in culture between academics doing cancer research versus clinicians.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateApr 30, 2008

'Destruct' triggers may be jammed in tumor cells, UF geneticists say

Researchers found that tumor cells can become resistant to radiation by jamming their self-destruct mechanisms, which could lead to improved cancer treatments. The study suggests that controlling the blocking-unblocking mechanism of DNA sequences involved in cell death may be key to making cancer cells sensitive to radiation again.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateApr 30, 2008

Melanoma of the rectum: A rare entity

A primary anorectal melanoma was reported in a 41-year-old man, presenting with rectal bleeding and polypoid tumor. Histopathology revealed a melanoma, but initial dissemination studies were negative. Unfortunately, metastases developed two years later, leading to the patient's death.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateApr 30, 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.

Not just for the monkeys: New publication shows evolution is everywhere

A new scientific journal uses evolutionary biology to tackle pressing issues such as climate change, food safety, and infectious diseases. The journal features articles that discuss topics ranging from adapting to elevated atmospheric carbon dioxide to predicting the extinction of certain populations due to human-mediated stresses.

SourceWiley·JournalEvolutionary Applications·DateApr 30, 2008

How to manage Chinese obese children with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease?

A recent study published in World Journal of Gastroenterology suggests that short-term lifestyle intervention is more effective than vitamin E capsule therapy in managing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in Chinese obese children. The researchers recommend lifestyle modification as the first step in treating NAFLD, citing its ...

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateApr 30, 2008

Method for fast human antibodies against flu could find broad use

Researchers have developed a faster way to generate human monoclonal antibodies against influenza virus by tapping the immune system at peak powers. The method was tested on human volunteers and showed promising results, potentially finding broad application towards almost any infectious disease.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalNature·DateApr 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.

Climate change threats to HIV rates

Climate change poses a significant threat to global HIV rates, exacerbated by economic pressures and food scarcity. The event aims to address the topic of an HIV-free future and features discussions on prevention, antiretroviral therapy, and integrated care.

SourceResearch Australia·DateApr 30, 2008

Researchers discover molecular basis of a form of muscular dystrophy

Researchers have discovered the molecular basis of a form of muscular dystrophy by identifying c-FLIP and calpain-3 proteins as drug targets. The study found that people with limb-girdle muscular dystrophy lack the c-FLIP protein, which regulates muscle cell death.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateApr 30, 2008

New findings: The anti-fibrotic mechanism of plant extract Cpd 861

Cpd 861 regulates collagen synthesis and degradation-related genes in human hepatic stellate cells, demonstrating an antifibrotic effect. The study found that Cpd 861 inhibits collagen synthesis and enhances collagen degradation, offering a new mechanism for antifibrogenic drug development.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateApr 30, 2008

Heat transfer between materials is focus of new research grant

A team led by Kevin Pipe will use ultrafast lasers and nanotechnology to regulate the flow of heat between materials, benefiting applications such as high-power electronics and thermoelectric energy conversion. The research aims to improve efficiency and reliability in devices.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateApr 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.

High circulating D-dimers are associated with presence of ascites

A study published in World Journal of Gastroenterology found high circulating D-dimer levels associated with ascites presence in liver cirrhosis patients. Ascites depletion may prevent bleeding complications. High D-dimer levels also linked to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in cirrhotic patients without ascites.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateApr 30, 2008

Physical activity, healthy eating and BMI not linked in older teens: study

A study of 900 Vancouver-area teenagers found that physical activity and healthy eating are not strongly linked, contradicting established assumptions. Boys reported more physical activity but a less-healthy diet than girls, while individuals with lower BMI values were no more likely to be physically active.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateApr 30, 2008

Salk study links diabetes and Alzheimer's disease

Researchers at the Salk Institute identified a probable molecular basis for the interaction between diabetes and Alzheimer's disease. The study found that damaged blood vessels in the brain of young diabetic mice suffered from significant memory loss and inflammation before any overt signs of Alzheimer's disease appeared.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNeurobiology of Aging·DateApr 30, 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.

Southern flavor in the Arctic

Researchers found a special geochemical signature in Arctic volcanic rocks that resembles the one found only in the southern hemisphere. The discovery suggests that processes at work in the Indian Ocean might have an analog in the northern hemisphere, and sheds light on the origin of the Dupal anomaly.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalNature·DateApr 30, 2008

Meteorology student SOARS toward excellence, overcomes obstacles

Junior at University of Miami double majoring in Meteorology and Applied Mathematics wins prestigious SOARS mentorship. He will conduct original research on improving weather forecasting and present his findings at a colloquium.

SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·DateApr 30, 2008

Pill ingredient could prevent brain damage after head injury

Researchers have found that a common contraceptive pill ingredient, progesterone, can improve neurologic outcomes for patients with severe head injuries. Progesterone was linked to increased survival and favorable outcomes at six months after treatment, with no complications reported.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalCritical Care·DateApr 30, 2008

Climate modelers see modern echo in '30s Dust Bowl

A new study found that dust raised by farmers amplified and spread natural drought, turning an ordinary drying cycle into disaster. The researchers warn that current pressures on farmland could worsen food crises like the Dust Bowl in other regions.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 30, 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 discover new ocean current

Researchers at Georgia Tech have discovered a new climate pattern called the North Pacific Gyre Oscillation, which explains changes in water temperature, salinity, and nutrients. This finding may help scientists predict how the oceans will respond to warming temperatures and ecosystem shifts.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateApr 30, 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.

Anti-HAV antibodies in beta-thalassemia

Research found that thalassemic patients had a higher prevalence of anti-HAV IgG antibodies than healthy controls. This is unexpected, as previous studies showed lower rates in thalassemics. The study recommends active immunization for transfused thalassemia patients to reduce liver infections.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateApr 30, 2008