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Science News Archive February 2008


Page 16 of 19

Treating acne: 2 different acid peels are both effective, study finds

A study published in Dermatologic Surgery found that chemical peels using alpha-hydroxy acid or beta-hydroxy acid are highly effective in reducing facial acne lesions. Both types of treatments yielded similar results, with BHA having slightly fewer side effects and longer-lasting results.

NIH scientists detect fatal copper disorder at birth

A new blood test developed by NIH scientists can diagnose Menkes disease in infants as early as birth, allowing for timely treatment that extends their survival. The test detects abnormal levels of catecholamines, a copper-dependent enzyme, which are present in the condition.

Oldest Australian crayfish fossils provide missing evolutionary link

Australian researchers have discovered ancient crayfish fossils, providing evidence that the crustaceans existed on the continent as far back as the Mesozoic Era. The finds offer insights into the ecology of southern Australia during this period, which saw diverse plants and dinosaurs in prolonged polar darkness.

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.

Gene found to play a suppressor role in skin cancer development

Researchers at Burnham Institute have identified Activating Transcription Factor 2 (ATF2) as a tumor suppressor in skin cancer development. ATF2 regulates gene transcription in response to extracellular stresses, leading to faster and more frequent tumor formation when its activity is reduced.

Tailoring glioblastoma therapies: 1 size does not fit all

Researchers found that STAT3 has tumor-promoting and tumor-suppressing effects depending on the genetic profile of glioblastoma tumors. This discovery highlights the need for effective therapies tailored to individual glioblastoma tumors.

Want healthy gums? Hit the dairy aisle

A recent study found that routine intake of dairy products can lower the instance of gum disease. The American Academy of Periodontology suggests that consuming dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt may help achieve a healthy lifestyle, including a healthy mouth.

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.

UA optical scientists add new, practical dimension to holography

Researchers at the University of Arizona have created updatable three-dimensional holographic displays that can be erased and rewritten in a matter of minutes. These devices have potential applications in medicine, industry, and military fields, such as tracking progress during surgeries or showing hazards to pilots.

Tropical soils impede landmine detection

Researchers found that over one-third of tropical soil samples can generate severe limitations for landmine detection using metal detectors. The study provides a classification scheme for predicting detector performance and highlights the importance of considering soil development in de-mining missions.

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.

Brain circuitry that drives drug-seeking compulsion identified

Experiments with rats reveal that severing connections between striatal regions decreases compulsive cocaine seeking behavior, highlighting the key role of the striatum in addiction. The findings suggest a complex neural mechanism underlying drug addiction development.

Europe's most common genetic disease is a liver disorder

Researchers discover hereditary hemochromatosis is a liver disease caused by a genetic defect in the liver that leads to increased iron absorption. The study reveals that the liver cells make an iron hormone called hepcidin to regulate iron uptake, but a mutated HFE gene reduces its production, leading to iron overload.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Gene plays 'Jekyll and Hyde' in brain cancer

A new study has found that a gene called STAT3 can behave differently depending on genetic nuances between individuals, playing a tumor suppressor role in some glioblastoma cases. The discovery has laid the foundation for personalized medicine approaches to treat this devastating brain cancer.

RNA-associated introns guide nerve-cell channel production

A team of researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has identified an important molecular mechanism guiding nerve-cell electrical channels. The discovery suggests that RNA-associated introns play a critical role in regulating gene expression and controlling the number of channel proteins produced.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How crystal becomes a conductor

Researchers used computational modeling to demonstrate how manganese oxide changes from an insulator to a conductor under high pressure. The study sheds light on the behavior of similar minerals deep in the Earth's crust and mantle.

Supplementary approach to malaria

A vitamin A and zinc supplement reduced malaria incidence by 34% in young children, according to a randomized double-blind trial. The supplementation also increased time to onset of malarial symptoms and reduced episode frequency.

Research shows a daily does of beetroot juice can beat high blood pressure

A daily dose of beetroot juice can significantly reduce blood pressure, according to a study published in the American Heart Association journal Hypertension. The research reveals that dietary nitrate, found in beetroot juice, leads to decreased blood pressure by converting into nitrite and then nitric oxide.

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.

Carnegie Mellon gets NSF award

Assistant Professor Jeremy J. Michalek of Carnegie Mellon University has been awarded the National Science Foundation's Faculty Early Career Development Award for his research on public policy and its impact on vehicle efficiency.

Scientists obtain core samples from subsea fault system off Japan

A team of scientists has obtained core samples from a subsea fault system off the coast of Japan, providing new data on how earthquakes are generated. The cores contain over 5,000 samples that will help researchers understand the evolution of the subduction zone and its relationship to earthquake and tsunami activity.

Chemical signature of manic depression discovered by scientists

Researchers identify distinct biochemical profile in patients with bipolar disorder, suggesting a balance of neurotransmitters is disrupted. The study's findings may lead to the development of more effective treatments using mood-stabilizing drugs like lithium and valproic acid.

Carnegie mellon visiting scholar identifes vulnerable areas

A new international study identifies vulnerable areas at risk for abrupt climate change, including the Arctic sea ice and Greenland ice sheet. The researchers warn that these 'tipping elements' may be pushed over a threshold to a radically different climate state, with catastrophic consequences.

Less invasive methods may provide accurate means to determine lung cancer stage

A study suggests that endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) and its combination with endobronchial ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EBUS-FNA) can accurately determine lung cancer stage. These minimally invasive methods show high sensitivity rates, potentially replacing traditional surgical procedures.

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.

New devices to boost nematode research on neurons and drugs

Researchers have developed two nanotech-driven tools using soft lithography to study brain-behavior connections and screen new pharmaceuticals for parasitic infections in humans. The devices provide a near-natural environment for nematode movement, enabling the monitoring of individual fluorescent-injected neurons in real-time.

Whole grain diets lower risk of chronic disease

A study by Penn State researchers found that consuming whole grains can lead to significant weight loss and reduced risk of chronic diseases. The study showed that the whole grain group experienced a lower body weight, lower blood pressure, and increased intake of fiber and magnesium compared to the refined grain group.

Dr. Andrew Constable awarded 2008 Pew Fellowship in marine conservation

Dr. Constable will create an ecosystem-based management plan to safeguard baleen whales and other marine life in the Southern Ocean's rapidly-growing krill fisheries. His project aims to promote environmentally sustainable growth of the industry and address concerns over climate change and overfishing.

'Weight training' muscles reduce fat, improve metabolism in mice

Researchers at Boston University found that increasing type II muscle mass reduces body fat and improves metabolic parameters in genetically engineered mice. This study suggests that strength training may be beneficial for overweight individuals and could lead to new treatments for obesity and diabetes.

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.

DNA 'barcode' identified for plants

A unique DNA gene, matK, has been identified as a potential 'barcode' for plants, allowing for easy identification and cataloging of different species. This discovery could lead to new methods for identifying plant ingredients in traditional medicines and monitoring endangered species.

Older women more susceptible to depression than older men

A new study by Yale School of Medicine researchers found that older women are more prone to depression and less likely to die from it compared to older men. The study, which evaluated 754 individuals aged 70+, found that women were more likely to experience symptoms of depression and remain depressed over time.

What are the long-term causes and consequences for the young homeless?

Research explores the growing impact of homelessness on families, particularly children and youth, highlighting the need for adequate and affordable shelter. The issue examines the consequences of homelessness on young people's lives, underscoring the urgency of addressing this critical issue.

2008 Pew Fellowship in Marine Conservation awarded to Dr. Ussif Rashid Sumaila

Dr. Sumaila will create comprehensive databases on the cost and ecological impact of commercial fishing globally, providing evidence for smarter policymaking concerning fisheries management worldwide. He aims to gather extensive information on social and economic drivers of overfishing and its impact on marine conservation.

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.

Smoking marijuana associated with increased risk for gum disease

Regular marijuana use in young adulthood is associated with a higher risk of developing periodontal disease, according to the study. Cannabis exposure groups showed significant increases in periodontal attachment loss and new attachment loss compared to non-users.

Don't blame the trees: Social factors, not forests, dictate disease patterns

A new study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases found that social marginalization is a stronger predictor of American Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (ACL) incidence than deforestation. The research showed that socially marginalized human populations are more vulnerable to infection, even in highly deforested counties.

Heavy marijuana use linked to gum disease

A recent study has found that heavy marijuana use is associated with an increased risk of developing periodontal disease. The study, which tracked over 900 individuals, found that frequent cannabis use since age 18 was linked to more than one-third of new cases of gum disease between ages 26 and 32.

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.

Plan expedites alternatives to animal testing

The new plan aims to reduce, refine and replace animal use in research and regulatory testing through partnerships with industry and stakeholders. It emphasizes the development of predictive systems using new technologies to minimize animal use.

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.

Drug fights cystic fibrosis

Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that PTC124 restored normal function in up to 29 percent of abnormal cystic-fibrosis protein cases. The drug works by rescuing faulty proteins that lead to illnesses, including cystic fibrosis and over 2,400 genetic diseases.

Why do earthquakes stop?

Researchers understand that a smooth decrease in stress at the end of a primary fault reduces the likelihood of an earthquake jumping to another fault. This study highlights the importance of slip gradient and rupture front acceleration in determining fault jump probability.

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.

Obesity may be wired in the brain, rat study suggests

Researchers found that obese rats have abnormalities in brain regions critical for appetite control, including reduced responsiveness to the hunger-suppressing hormone leptin. This suggests that obesity may be wired into the brain from early life, making it challenging to reverse with exercise and diet alone.

Feed the birds: Winter feeding makes for better breeding

Research by the University of Exeter and Queen's University Belfast shows that providing extra food to garden birds in winter makes for a more successful breeding season in the spring. Birds that receive extra food, such as peanuts, lay eggs earlier and produce more fledglings.

Researchers find less invasive, highly accurate methods

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have developed a new technique using two small flexible tubes to stage lung cancer, achieving a 93% accuracy rate in finding malignant lymph nodes. This method is less invasive and more precise than traditional surgical methods, allowing patients to recover the same day.

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.

Chronic pain harms the brain

A study by Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine found that chronic pain disrupts the equilibrium of the brain's regions, leading to permanent damage. This constant firing of neurons can alter connections and even cause death.

Hand-held computers prod older adults to exercise more, Stanford study shows

A Stanford study found that specially programmed PDAs can prod middle-aged and older Americans into increasing their physical activity levels by approximately five hours each week. The devices provided reminders and feedback to help participants set goals and track progress, leading to a significant increase in exercise frequency.