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Science News for February 28, 2008


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
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.

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

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
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.

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

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
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.

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

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
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.

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

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
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Researchers find possible target to treat deadly bloodstream infections

A new study by researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago has identified a crucial enzyme for bacterial growth in blood, offering a potential target for antibiotics. The study found that most E. coli bacteria strains cannot grow in human blood if they lack a specific gene involved in nucleotide biosynthesis.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateFeb 28, 2008

How roots find a route

Scientists at the John Innes Centre have discovered how roots use a growth control mechanism to find their way through soil and overcome obstacles. By exploring the soil in a similar way to humans navigating in the dark, root hairs can sense and adapt to changes in their environment.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2008

Breakthroughs in nanotechnology on edge of 'knowledge frontier'

Kattesh Katti's breakthrough discovery uses gold salts, soybeans and water to produce gold nanoparticles with major applications in cancer detection, electronics and medicine. The environmentally-friendly process could have significant implications for the future of nanotechnology.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateFeb 28, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The top 5 ways medical physics has changed health care

The American Association of Physicists in Medicine celebrates its 50th anniversary, highlighting key contributions of medical physicists to medicine. Medical physicists have developed technologies such as MRI, CT scanning, and PET scanning, which have transformed imaging and cancer treatment.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateFeb 28, 2008

Chimp and human communication trace to same brain region

Researchers found that chimpanzees activate the same brain region as humans when producing communicative signals, suggesting a shared neural basis for language. The study suggests that this common ancestor may have possessed a 'language-ready brain,' with tremendous plasticity allowing for development of complex communicative signals.

SourceCell Press·DateFeb 28, 2008

Protein protects lung cancer cells from efforts to fix or kill them

A University of Florida study found that the protein Bc12 blocks DNA repair in lung cancer cells, allowing them to thrive despite damage from radiation or chemicals. The discovery provides a new understanding of how lung cancer cells evade treatments, offering potential targets for drug development.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 28, 2008

Antioxidant benefits of POM Wonderful 100% pomegranate juice top red wine, grape and acai juices

A recent study published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry found that POM Wonderful 100% Pomegranate Juice has superior antioxidant power compared to other beverages. The juice ranked higher than red wine, Concord grape, blueberry, and orange juices in terms of phenolic content and antioxidant activity.

SourcePOM Wonderful·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateFeb 28, 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.

LSU scientist finds evidence of 'rain-making' bacteria

Brent Christner's team found biological particles in precipitation, which can catalyze freezing at warmer temperatures, affecting precipitation patterns. The discovery has implications for understanding agricultural pathogens and their role in the global warming process.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2008

Tendon complications, though rare, linked to statins

A study found a rare but significant link between statin use and tendon complications, including tendonitis and rupture. Regular examination may be necessary for patients on statins, particularly during strenuous physical activity.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateFeb 28, 2008

Brown mathematicians prove new way to build a better estimate

Researchers have created a new class of statistical estimators called 'centroid' estimators, which allow for more accurate predictions from massive datasets. These estimators identify the most representative solution from the data, overcoming limitations of traditional methods like maximum likelihood estimation.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·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.

ASU researcher may have discovered key to life before its origin on Earth

Researchers found that some abiotic precursors to life on Earth carry 'handedness' in a larger number than previously thought. The discovery was made possible by the study of an exceptionally pristine meteorite, which revealed molecular asymmetry in extraterrestrial chemistry.

SourceArizona State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2008

Heightened weighing discomfort among women may increase their health risks, Penn study indicates

A new Penn study reveals that college-age females experience high levels of discomfort about being weighed in public, potentially leading to missed health tests and treatments. The study's findings suggest that women may avoid doctor visits due to embarrassment, highlighting the importance of private weighing for improved health outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalAppetite·DateFeb 28, 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.

First look: Princeton researchers peek into deepest recesses of human brain

Researchers from Princeton University have developed a new experimental technique to study brainstem activity in humans, tracking changes in blood flow associated with dopamine levels. The findings provide critical insights into the role of brain chemicals in neuropsychiatric disorders such as addiction and Parkinson's disease.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2008

Capturing sunlight

Researchers have developed a new type of solar cell that uses indoline dye and ionic liquid to improve efficiency. The cells achieve an energy conversion yield of 7.2%, a record for this type of cell, and could potentially lead to more affordable renewable energy.

SourceWiley·DateFeb 28, 2008

Electronic structure of DNA revealed for 1st time by Hebrew University and collaborating researchers

Researchers have revealed the electronic structure of single DNA molecules, shedding light on their electronic properties and potential use in nanotechnology. The discovery has significant implications for understanding DNA damage and repair mechanisms, as well as the development of new DNA decoding technologies.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 28, 2008

Dirty space and supernovae

Researchers at Carnegie Institution find unusual new form of carbon in meteorites, which could affect measurements of the universe's expansion and dark energy models. The discovery may have implications for understanding Type1a supernovae and the accelerating expansion of the universe.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2008

Has the mystery of the Antarctic ice sheet been solved?

A team of scientists from Cardiff University presents new temperature records using ancient sea floor mud, revealing that ocean temperatures cooled during the growth of an ice sheet, matching climate model simulations. The findings help resolve a long-standing puzzle regarding ice-sheet growth versus global cooling.

SourceCardiff University·JournalGeology·DateFeb 28, 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.

Study examines how men and women view marital and parental time pressures

A recent study published in the Journal of Family Issues found that only about one-fifth of employed men and women are completely satisfied with their marital and parental time pressures. Dr. Susan Roxburgh's research highlights the differing expectations of men and women when it comes to balancing work, family, and personal life.

SourceKent State University·JournalJournal of Family Issues·DateFeb 28, 2008

Suicide rates among young Scottish men fall by over 40 percent

A study published in BMC Public Health found a 42% reduction in suicide rates among 15-29 year old men in Scotland between 2000 and 2004. The decline is attributed to a decrease in hangings as a means of suicide, with other methods such as poisoning becoming more prevalent.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateFeb 28, 2008

Autoantibodies and neuropsychiatric events in lupus

A global research alliance found associations between anti-ribosomal P antibodies and psychosis, as well as lupus anticoagulant and cerebrovascular disease in SLE patients. The study identified potential biomarkers for neuropsychiatric events, but future studies are needed to confirm these findings.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateFeb 28, 2008

What caused westward expansion in the United States?

A new study by University of Southern California economist Guillaume Vandenbroucke reveals that the decrease in transportation costs and population growth were key drivers of US Westward Expansion. The study found that technological innovation played a significant role in reducing transportation costs, leading to an increase in land ac...

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalInternational Economic Review·DateFeb 28, 2008

Maternal love: How a mother's brain responds to her infant

A new study published in Biological Psychiatry reveals that mothers' brains show distinct activation patterns when identifying their own infant's cries versus those of other infants. This unique response is thought to be biologically meaningful for successful infant care.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry·DateFeb 28, 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.

Major mid-century influenza epidemics caused by novel hybrid viruses

Researchers found that genetic reassortment events led to the creation of new hybrid viruses in humans during severe influenza epidemics in 1947 and 1951. This challenges the standard model of human influenza virus evolution, suggesting a more complex co-circulation of multiple forms of the same strain.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateFeb 28, 2008

Nature's helpers: Using microorganisms to remove TCE from water

Researchers at Arizona State University have discovered microorganisms that can convert the chlorinated solvent TCE into ethene, a harmless product. Using membrane biofilm reactors, these organisms were able to remove TCE from water efficiently and effectively, making them a promising tool for cleaning up contaminated groundwater.

SourceArizona State University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 28, 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.

Seafloor cores show tight bond between dust and past climates

A new study using seafloor cores has found a strong correlation between dust and past climates, suggesting that atmospheric moisture and dust move in tandem with temperature changes. This discovery may inform current ideas to seed oceans with iron-rich dust to mitigate global warming.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2008

Low-intensity exercise reduces fatigue symptoms by 65 percent, study finds

A new study found that regular low-intensity exercise can significantly reduce fatigue symptoms and increase energy levels by 20 percent in sedentary people. The researchers discovered that low-intensity exercise is more effective than moderate-intensity exercise in reducing fatigue, with a 65 percent reduction compared to 49 percent.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalPsychotherapy and Psychosomatics·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.

Cancer-related protein may play key role in Alzheimer's disease

Researchers at USF Health found that Akt protein can influence tau protein, leading to nerve cell death in Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests regulating Akt levels may be beneficial for treating diseases of aging, including cancer and diabetes.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 28, 2008

Complex interventions can help elderly people live safely and independently

A systematic review found that complex interventions, such as preventive home visits and community-based care, improved physical function and reduced the need for nursing home care in elderly people. The meta-analysis also showed a reduction in hospital admissions and falls, with benefits evident in studies started before 1993.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 28, 2008