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Science News Archive December 2008


Page 15 of 21

Rice University study finds possible clues to epilepsy, autism

Researchers at Rice University have identified a potential connection between glutamate and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) in the development of neurological disorders. A mutation in a glutamate receptor gene found in both fruit flies and humans can disrupt regulatory mechanisms, leading to increased neuronal excitability.

Vitamin B1 could reverse early-stage kidney disease in diabetes patients

Researchers at the University of Warwick have discovered that high doses of thiamine can dramatically decrease albumin excretion and reverse early-stage diabetic kidney disease. The study found that 300mg of thiamine taken orally daily for three months reduced albumin excretion by 41% in type 2 diabetes patients.

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.

New system can improve video-sharing Web sites like YouTube

The Tiny Videos system, created by Alex Karpenko, is a groundbreaking framework that allows for efficient compression and searching of large amounts of video data. It can recognize and find duplicate video segments, properly labeling them and helping users quickly find specific videos.

Unique transatlantic tie-up to understand the aging process

The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) and the US National Institute on Aging (NIA) have joined forces to fund collaborative UK-US research projects into normal ageing. The programme aims to develop research links between UK and US research groups to further our understanding of healthy biology of ageing.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Stress relief: Lab mice that exercise control may be more normal

Purdue researchers found that lab mice can relieve stress by controlling their environment through behaviors such as selecting preferred temperatures and building nests. This suggests that allowing lab animals to express natural behaviors may improve research data reliability.

Nanotech: To know it is not necessarily to love it

A study found that people's opinions on nanotechnology are shaped by their cultural values, with pro-commerce values leading to a positive view and egalitarian values sparking concerns about risks. The findings highlight the need for nuanced communication strategies to address diverse audiences.

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.

NEJM: 2 new studies show malaria vaccine candidate advancing in Africa

Two new studies published in NEJM confirm the efficacy of RTS,S/AS, a malaria vaccine candidate, in reducing clinical episodes by 53% in children aged 5-17 months. The vaccine also demonstrates favorable safety profiles and can be administered alongside standard infant vaccines, providing an optimal delivery platform.

From mother to daughters: A central mystery in cell division solved

A team of researchers has identified a crucial mechanism in cell division, which could lead to improved cancer therapies with fewer side effects. By understanding how the contractile ring pinches cells into two daughter cells, scientists can develop more targeted treatments.

China's paradoxical policies on HIV and drug use threaten health

A new study published in PLoS Medicine reveals that China's antinarcotics policies compromise the health and human rights of detained injection drug users. The study found routine HIV testing without consent, lack of medical treatment, and inadequate information on HIV prevention.

DOE Joint Genome Institute completes soybean genome

The US Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute has released a complete draft assembly of the soybean genetic code, making it available to researchers. Preliminary studies suggest that the soybean genome contains as many as 66,000 genes, more than twice the number identified in the human genome.

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.

Oldest old 'hanging in the balance'?

A lack of clear-cut scientific evidence has created controversy over breast cancer screening for women over 80. Researchers recommend investing in clinical trials to assess cancer screening and treatment for older individuals, strengthening empirical data for medical recommendations.

Isopora or isn't it?

Researchers discovered two new extinct species of coral, Isopora ginsburgi and Isopora curacaoensis, found on the Island of Curaçao six million years ago. The findings provide insight into coral evolution and biogeographic separation between Caribbean and Indo-Pacific regions.

Modeling neonatal diabetes

Scientists at Oxford University created a mouse model of neonatal diabetes that mimics the human condition, showing the V59M mutant Kir6.2 protein disrupts insulin production and leads to increased blood glucose levels.

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.

Black and white is not always a clear distinction

A new study by University of Oregon sociologists found that Americans who are unemployed, incarcerated, or impoverished are more likely to be classified as black, regardless of their past self-identification. The research suggests that race is closely tied to social status and can be altered by changes in economic position.

Marital problems lead to poorer outcomes for breast cancer patients

Researchers found that patients in distressed marriages had higher levels of stress, less physical activity, slower recovery and more symptoms of illness compared to those with good marriages. Women in strong marriages also maintained better dietary habits and physical activity, leading to a poorer recovery from cancer.

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.

Clemson researchers and Itron Inc. generate electric power savings

A team of Clemson researchers, led by Taufiquar Khan and Irina Viktorova, is developing mathematical models to optimize metering and communications in complex power-distribution networks. This effort aims to improve distribution efficiency, save energy, and reduce operating costs.

State policies have little effect on reducing minors' indoor tanning use

A new analysis finds that state policies meant to limit minors' indoor tanning use have had little impact, with the practice increasing in states without such policies. The study reveals five factors associated with indoor tanning use: age, gender, social attitude, parental involvement, and permission.

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.

Are men hardwired to overspend?

A University of Michigan researcher found that men who overspend on consumer goods have higher mating intentions and past success in attracting mates. The study suggests an evolutionary link between financial consumption and mating behavior, with men competing for status and resources to attract partners.

Selenium may prevent high risk-bladder cancer

A study published in Cancer Prevention Research suggests that selenium may aid in the prevention of high-risk bladder cancer. Women, moderate smokers, and those with p53 positive bladder cancer had significant reductions in bladder cancer with higher rates of selenium.

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.

Viewing US politics through the lens of race

A recent mini-symposium in Political Research Quarterly explores the critical role of race in shaping US political history. The studies reveal how and why racial factors have influenced major developments, including debates over slavery and internal improvements.

An Achilles heel in cancer cells

Scientists identified a protein called Akt as the key to exploiting a vulnerability in cancer cells. By targeting this protein, researchers were able to selectively kill cancer cells while sparing normal cells.

Alternative splicing proteins prompt heart development

Two proteins, CUGBP and MBNL1, play crucial roles in switching alternative splicing patterns during heart development. The study provides insights into normal heart development and has implications for understanding myotonic dystrophy.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Search engine marketing for non-profits

A study published in the International Journal of Internet Marketing and Advertising suggests that non-profits can exploit online marketing strategies to gain traffic and raise awareness. By focusing on relevant keywords and optimizing their websites, non-profits can improve their search engine rankings and increase donations.

Second-generation CML drugs show promise as frontline therapy

Researchers at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center report encouraging results from clinical trials of second-generation CML drugs nilotinib and dasatinib. These drugs have shown higher complete cytogenetic response rates compared to the frontline medication imatinib, with some patients achieving responses faster than ever seen before.

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.

Dune and dirty: Hurricane teaches lessons through ecosystem research

The study reveals that marshes lost elevation after Hurricane Ike, contrary to expectations. Damage to the coastline sparks debates around public access and private property issues. Researcher Dr. Rusty Feagin's findings highlight the importance of preserving natural processes to mitigate the effects of future storms.

Spider love: Little guys get lots more

A new study found that smaller male redback spiders have a ten-times higher paternity rate than larger males when given an early start. This is because they mature faster and are quicker on their feet, allowing them to compete effectively.

Late Neandertals and modern human contact in southeastern Iberia

The study of human fossils from Sima de la Palomas reveals the persistence of Neandertals until around 40,000 years ago. This challenges the idea that they were quickly displaced by modern humans, indicating a more complex picture of contact and coexistence between different human populations.

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.

Rectal malaria drug could save many lives in rural Africa and Asia

A rectal application of artesunate may be the key to saving lives from severe malaria in remote areas. The study found that pre-referral rectal artesunate significantly reduced mortality and permanent disability among patients with suspected severe malaria who could not receive oral treatment.

Southern Ocean resistant to changing winds

New study reveals that despite increased wind speeds, Southern Ocean currents and upwelling patterns remain unchanged, contradicting previous concerns about the ocean's capacity to combat climate change. The research suggests that small-scale ocean eddies balance stronger winds, preventing a significant impact on carbon dioxide storage.

Nanotechnology 'culture war' possible, says Yale study

A Yale study reveals that the public's perception of nanotechnology is highly polarized based on cultural values, with some groups viewing it as safe and others as risky. The study suggests that public education strategies should consider citizens' predispositions to effectively communicate about nanotechnology.

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.

'Strained' quantum dots show new optical properties

Scientists at Emory University have developed strain-tuned quantum dots with new optical properties, reducing toxicity and size limitations. These particles can be made mostly of zinc and selenium, emitting light at near-infrared wavelengths, which could improve biomedical imaging and optoelectronics.

Older age doesn't affect survival after bone marrow transplant

Researchers at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center analyzed over 1,100 blood stem cell transplantations and found that older patients (65+) do not have poorer outcomes compared to younger patients. The study also showed that disease type and status at transplant are key prognostic variables for survival.

Research highlights new approaches to prevent blood clots

Researchers have found that preventive use of antithrombotic medication can reduce incidence of thromboembolic events in cancer patients. The PROTECHT Study shows a 47.2% reduction in risk, while also demonstrating safety with minimal major bleeding episodes.

Lenalidomide safe as single therapy for elderly CLL patients

In a phase II clinical trial, lenalidomide demonstrated activity against chronic lymphocytic leukemia in elderly patients. The drug showed a favorable toxicity profile and achieved significant responses, including partial response in 54% of patients.

Alzheimer's disease breakthrough

A team of CSIRO scientists has developed a rapid screening system to identify inhibitors of toxic multimers formed during Alzheimer's disease progression. Folate is shown to be beneficial in the screening system, and could lead to the discovery of new agents that may prevent or delay the onset of the disease.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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