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Science News Archive February 2008


Page 1 of 19

Of mice and men ... and kidney stones

Researchers discovered that mice are more efficient at removing oxalate from the body, a crucial step in preventing kidney stones. This finding holds promise for developing improved treatments and paving the way for a mouse model of the disease.

SourceWiley·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·DateFeb 29, 2008

Simple screening questionnaire for kidney disease outperforms current clinical practice guidelines

A new screening questionnaire, SCORED, has been shown to be more accurate and efficient in identifying individuals with silent chronic kidney disease than current clinical practice guidelines. The test correctly identifies patients at risk for CKD 88-95% of the time and defines high-risk individuals 25% fewer times.

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 29, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Popular alternative therapy for psoriasis performs no better than placebo

A recent study by the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that curcumin, an active ingredient in turmeric, had a low response rate in patients with psoriasis. Despite laboratory evidence showing its potential, the study suggests that the placebo effect or natural remission may be responsible for the limited results.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Dermatology·DateFeb 29, 2008

Children with autism may learn from 'virtual peers'

Researchers at Northwestern University have found that children with high-functioning autism produce more contingent sentences when interacting with virtual peers. This suggests that virtual peers can be a useful tool in helping children with autism develop communication and social skills. The study aims to generalize these skills to m...

SourceNorthwestern University·DateFeb 29, 2008

Darwin was wrong about the wild origin of the chicken

A new study from Uppsala University found that the genes responsible for domesticated chickens' yellow legs come from a closely related species, the grey jungle fowl. This challenges Charles Darwin's theory that chickens originated from the red jungle fowl.

SourceUppsala University·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 29, 2008
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Technology uses live cells to detect food-borne pathogens, toxins

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a new technology that can detect multiple food-borne pathogens and toxins in one to two hours using live mammalian cells. The technique estimates the amount of microbes present and whether they pose an active health risk, giving users a higher degree of confidence in the test results.

SourcePurdue University·JournalLaboratory Investigation·DateFeb 29, 2008
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Story ideas from the Journal of Biological Chemistry

Researchers uncover the specific receptor subtypes affected by chronic nicotine exposure, revealing new insights into its addictive properties. A two-protein complex also protects nerve cells by promoting growth and survival, showing promise as a therapeutic agent.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 29, 2008

Customized treatments for sepsis lower treatment time and reduce length of ICU stays

Researchers found that using a blood test and decision algorithm to determine antibiotic therapy duration in patients with severe sepsis or septic shock can reduce treatment time by up to 6 days. This approach also resulted in shorter ICU stays, averaging three days less for treated patients.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 29, 2008

Genetic factors in smoking also increase risk of chronic bronchitis

Researchers found that genetic factors account for 40% of the risk for chronic bronchitis, but also identified a link between genetic predisposition to smoking and the development of the disease. The study suggests that smoking remains a primary risk factor for chronic bronchitis, regardless of genetic background.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 29, 2008

Certain vitamin supplements may increase lung cancer risk, especially in smokers

A study published by the American Thoracic Society found that certain vitamin supplements, including multivitits, vitamin C, and folate, did not protect against lung cancer and may even increase the risk. The risk was highest among current smokers, with a seven percent rise in risk for every 100mg/day of supplemental vitamin E.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateFeb 29, 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.

Liquid water found flowing on Mars? Not yet

Researchers used topographic data from NASA's HiRISE camera to determine how a flow of pure liquid water would look on the images versus an avalanche of dry granular debris. The study found that the dry granular case was the winner, suggesting that liquid water has not been found on the Martian surface within the last decade.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalGeology·DateFeb 29, 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.

Financial struggles plague families of children with autism

A new study reveals that families of children with autism often experience substantial financial burdens, including high therapy costs and reduced lifestyle choices. Financial planners can help direct families to available resources and encourage smart spending decisions to mitigate these effects.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Family and Economic Issues·DateFeb 29, 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.

When the rules of the game are broken: Research studies sports injuries related to illegal activity

A study by Nationwide Children's Hospital found that more than 98,000 high school sports-related injuries were directly linked to illegal activities, with the highest rates in girls' soccer and volleyball. The research suggests that reducing illegal activity through rule enforcement and education may reduce sports-related injuries.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalInjury Prevention·DateFeb 29, 2008

Increased allergen levels in homes linked to asthma

A new national survey found that elevated indoor allergen levels are associated with asthma symptoms in allergic individuals, particularly those with allergies. Regular household cleaning and reducing exposure to pets and pests can help alleviate symptoms.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateFeb 29, 2008

ESRC Festival of Social Science 2008

The ESRC Festival of Social Science 2008 celebrates British social science research, highlighting its impact on everyday lives. The festival features over 90 events across UK towns and cities, covering topics such as climate change, ageing, and energy efficiency.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateFeb 29, 2008

Kaiser Permanente study shows 1 in 3 women has pelvic floor disorder

A Kaiser Permanente study found that one-third of women experience pelvic floor disorders, including incontinence and prolapse. The study, which surveyed over 4,000 women aged 25-84, highlights the need for education and access to experts in female pelvic medicine.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateFeb 29, 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.

Stakeholders use science to find common ground on wood supply from forests

A group of stakeholders, including forest wood-product businesses, environmental groups and public land agencies, worked with scientists to identify the potential volume of wood resources available from more than 2 million acres of Arizona forests. The analysis estimates a potential supply of up to 850 million cubic feet of wood and 8 ...

SourceNorthern Arizona University·DateFeb 29, 2008

NHLBI issues first US von Willebrand Disease clinical practice guidelines

The NHLBI has published its first US clinical practice guidelines for von Willebrand Disease, a condition that affects 1 in 100 to 1,000 people. The guidelines provide recommendations for screening, diagnosis, and treatment of the three major types of VWD, emphasizing proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications.

SourceNIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute·JournalHaemophilia·DateFeb 29, 2008

Airborne bacteria may play large role in precipitation

Research found that airborne bacteria are globally distributed and may cause freezing at warmer temperatures, leading to the formation of rain. The bacteria can multiply and form groups on plants, creating a cycle of precipitation that could help reduce drought.

SourceMontana State University·JournalScience·DateFeb 29, 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.

From 2-D pictures to 3 dimensions

A team of UC San Diego computer scientists has developed a groundbreaking algorithm for 3D reconstruction from 2-D images, solving the long-standing problem of autocalibration. This technology has vast potential in various applications, including virtual product showcases and augmented-reality walkthroughs.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateFeb 29, 2008

Novel mechanism found that may boost impaired function of leukemia protein

Researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center discovered a novel mechanism that can enhance the function of AML1, a protein frequently impaired in acute leukemia. The study identified the methyltransferase enzyme controlling normal AML1 activity and demonstrated its ability to regulate transcription factors.

SourceMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center·JournalGenes & Development·DateFeb 29, 2008

Study shows Darwin was wrong about the origins of chickens

A new study found that chickens have a different version of a gene that codes for white skin, but the yellow-skin variant is present in a completely different wild species, grey junglefowl. This discovery contradicts Charles Darwin's theory that all chickens came from a wild red junglefowl species.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Genetics·DateFeb 29, 2008

St. Jude researchers find key step in programmed cell death

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital discovered a crucial role of the Hax1 protein in protecting cells from apoptosis. The findings provide valuable insights into the biochemical interactions that control programmed cell death, which may lead to new treatments for diseases like Parkinson's.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature·DateFeb 29, 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.

Breast cancer death rates among black women not decreasing across all states

A new study from the American Cancer Society reveals that breast cancer death rates among African American women are decreasing in only 11 US states and remain flat or increase in at least half. The disparity is attributed to access issues, regional variations in treatment quality, and limited screening services.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalCancer Causes & Control·DateFeb 28, 2008

Extract of broccoli sprouts may protect against bladder cancer

A concentrated broccoli sprouts extract cut bladder tumor development in animal models, with isothyiocyanates delivering potent protective action. The study's results reinforce associations between cruciferous vegetable intake and reduced bladder cancer risk.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateFeb 28, 2008

New genetic association with schizophrenia found by researchers

Researchers discovered a new genetic link between the MEGF10 gene and schizophrenia, finding that a variant of the gene is associated with increased heritability risk. The study also found that the MEGF10 gene is expressed more extensively in post-mortem brain tissue from individuals with schizophrenia.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateFeb 28, 2008

New study examines the price of democracy when foreign investors 'vote' with their dollars

A new study by University of Minnesota professor Paul Vaaler reveals that foreign investors respond to shifting partisan political tides during election years in emerging-market countries. When the likely swing is to the right-wing, foreign investment projects increase, while left-wing swings lead to a decrease in new investments.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateFeb 28, 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.

Student develops new LED, wins $30,000 Lemelson-Rensselaer Prize

A Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute student has developed a new type of LED that could allow for its widespread use in liquid crystal displays (LCDs), improving screen clarity and conserving energy. The polarized LED, invented by Martin Schubert, is expected to revolutionize the field of lighting technology.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·DateFeb 28, 2008

Is your drinking water safe?

A study of Lake Bloomington, a major source of drinking water for central Illinois residents, reveals high nitrate concentrations exceeding safe levels. The research aims to inform producers on nitrogen fertilizer management in sensitive watershed areas.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Education·DateFeb 28, 2008
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.

Improving the quality of laboratory data with computer modeling

Researchers have developed a new statistical model to clean up low-quality HLA data, enabling easier and more cost-effective individual immune system analysis. This advancement has significant implications for transplant medicine, disease diagnosis, and understanding viral evolution.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateFeb 28, 2008

Weill Cornell team identifies potential new drug targets against hormone-dependent breast cancer

A Weill Cornell team discovered that EP2 and EP4 receptors play a key role in boosting estrogen production in fat and breast cancer cells. This pathway increases the risk of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. The study's findings suggest new targets for pharmaceutical research, including drugs that target these receptors.

SourceNewYork-Presbyterian·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateFeb 28, 2008

UB's bioblower closer to protecting soldiers from biological attack

The BioBlower technology has passed US Department of Defense tests and has been directed to retrofit military platforms with the system. The device destroys airborne pathogens by rapidly heating and compressing contaminated air, providing a more efficient and effective solution than conventional HEPA filters.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateFeb 28, 2008

Researchers have discovered a gene that can block the spread of HIV

A team of researchers identified a human gene called TRIM22 that can block HIV infection in cell culture by preventing virus assembly. The discovery shows the body has a natural defense mechanism against HIV, but research is needed to understand why it doesn't work in people infected with HIV.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateFeb 28, 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.

Comparison of antipsychotic treatments in adolescents with schizophrenia

A new study found that clozapine was approximately twice as effective as high-dose olanzapine in treating adolescents with schizophrenia. Both medications produced significant weight gain and metabolic abnormalities, but clozapine showed greater symptom reduction for positive and negative symptoms.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateFeb 28, 2008

Hormone replacement therapy appears to have no effect on risk and severity of rheumatoid arthritis

Researchers have found that hormone replacement therapy does not significantly affect the risk of developing or exacerbating rheumatoid arthritis. The study analyzed data from over 27,000 postmenopausal women taking part in a clinical trial, revealing no notable differences between those on hormone replacement therapy and placebo groups.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateFeb 28, 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.

Researchers measure field strength and density of ICF implosions

Scientists have identified two types of electromagnetic configurations in inertial confinement fusion implosions that affect dynamics and diagnosis. Researchers measured field strength and area densities using radiography with a pulsed monoenergetic proton source.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2008