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Science News Archive May 2008


Page 18 of 22

Is there new chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer?

Researchers assessed various regimens for treating advanced gastric cancer and found that new agent-containing regimens can achieve higher response rates. Chemotherapy with 5-fluorouracil remains a mainstream treatment option, prolonging median survival time for AGC patients.

Silicon's effect on sunflowers studied

A study by Drs. Sophia Kamenidou and Todd J. Cavins found that silicon supplementation improved horticultural traits in greenhouse-produced sunflowers, such as increased stem diameter and flower quality, but also caused growth abnormalities at high concentrations.

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.

Duck-billed platypus genome sequence published

The first duck-billed platypus genome analysis reveals clues about early mammalian genome organization and the evolution of unique characteristics. The study found that the platypus shares more than 80% of its genes with other mammals, but also has distinct genetic features associated with reptilian and avian traits.

St. Jude finds 'dancing' hair cells are key to humans' acute hearing

Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that the prestin protein embedded in outer hair cell membranes plays a critical role in amplifying sound signals. This discovery sheds light on the mechanisms behind acute hearing loss due to genetic mutations or drug overdoses.

Seagulls: Are males the weaker sex?

Researchers found that males hatch faster than females when isolated, but are disadvantaged in social environments, leading to poorer hatching conditions. Females have an upper hand in responding to environmental challenges during embryonic development.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Platypus genome sequence published

The platypus genome sequence published by UK researchers reveals a mix of mammalian, bird-like and reptilian features in the species' genetic blueprint. The analysis found that platypus venom is a cocktail of proteins originally with different functions, similar to those in reptile venom.

After divorce, stable families help minimize long-term harm to children

A new study found that children who lived in unstable family situations after their parents divorced fared worse as adults compared to those with stable post-divorce family situations. These children experienced lower education levels, income, and occupational prestige, as well as higher poverty rates.

First analysis of platypus genome may impact disease prevention

Researchers have completed the first analysis of platypus DNA, revealing insights into gene regulation and immune systems that may lead to advances in human disease prevention. The study's findings also provide new perspectives on mammalian evolution and conservation efforts.

Molecular espionage shows a single HIV enzyme's many tasks

Researchers have discovered that reverse transcriptase, the target of major anti-HIV drugs, can flip between binding orientations to facilitate two distinct catalytic activities. This dynamic behavior is regulated by nonnucleoside RT inhibitors, which hinder the enzyme's ability to convert single-stranded DNA to double-stranded DNA.

UCI awarded $27.2 million for new stem cell building

The UCI Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center will house up to 26 researchers, a master's program in biotechnology, and programs educating patients and the public. The facility is expected to advance stem cell therapies for treating spinal cord injuries and other diseases.

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.

Breast cancer tumors grow faster in younger women

Researchers found that tumour growth rates vary considerably among patients, with generally slower growth rates with increasing age at diagnosis. The new model estimated the mean time for a tumour to double in size from 10 to 20 mm in diameter is 1.7 years.

MIT study suggests caution on new anti-obesity drug in kids

A new MIT study found that a class of anti-obesity drugs could interfere with neural development in young children by blocking brain receptors similar to those in marijuana. The research, conducted on mice, suggests caution when using these compounds in kids.

Alternatives to ozone-depleting pesticide studied

Scientists evaluated eight chemical alternatives to methyl bromide, finding some controlled weeds as consistently as the banned pesticide but at lower yields. Environmental factors also affected results, highlighting the need for further research and management strategies.

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.

Obesity linked to increased risk for dementia

A systematic review of 10 studies found a consistent relationship between obesity and an increased risk for dementia, with baseline obesity increasing the risk by 80% on average. Preventing or treating obesity at a younger age could reduce the number of dementia patients by up to 20%.

New target for Alzheimer's disease identified

Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have found that modulating enkephalin peptides in the brain may reduce cognitive deficits seen in Alzheimer's disease. Increased levels of preproenkephalin mRNA and enkephalins in brain regions affected by AD were observed, suggesting a potential new therapy target.

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.

How to diagnose and treat hemosuccus pancreaticus?

Hemosuccus pancreaticus is a rare cause of intermittent upper GI bleeding, often associated with chronic pancreatitis. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, with interventional radiology and surgical options available.

UCSB receives $3.2 million stem cell grant from state

The University of California, Santa Barbara will receive a $3.2 million grant from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine to develop a state-of-the-art stem cell research facility. The center aims to foster interdisciplinary research and translation of stem cell-based therapeutics for human diseases.

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.

Record-setting laser may aid searches for Earthlike planets

Scientists have developed a record-breaking ultrafast laser that can aid in the search for Earthlike planets. The new laser offers high speed, short pulses, and high average power, making it ideal for boosting the sensitivity of astronomical tools.

Mental disorders cost society billions in unearned income

A recent study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry estimates that major mental disorders result in significant losses of human productivity, with individuals with serious mental illness earning approximately $22,545 per year. The total economic burden is attributed to lost earnings and increased likelihood of unemployment.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Superbug genome sequenced

The genome of Steno, a newly emerging superbug, has been sequenced, revealing an organism with exceptional drug resistance. Understanding its genetic makeup may help researchers develop biochemical compounds to combat this resistance.

Genetic 'tag team' keeps cells on cycle

Researchers at Duke University have discovered a genetic 'tag team' that regulates the cell cycle, finding that nearly 70% of periodic genes continue to turn on and off without cyclins. The study suggests a new understanding of gene regulation in mammalian cells.

How to perform caudate lobectomy for liver cancer successfully?

Researchers analyzed clinical data from 11 liver cancer patients who underwent caudate lobectomy using specific skin incision, mobilization of liver, vascular exclusion, and ideal hepatectomy procedures. The study demonstrates that caudate lobectomy for cancer in the candate lobe can be safely performed with an appropriate procedure.

Platypus genome unravels mysteries of mammalian evolution

The platypus genome provides insights into the evolution of venom components and a bird-like sex-determination system in mammalian ancestors. Researchers have found that platypus venom genes evolved by gene duplication of antimicrobial beta-defensins, mirroring an independent evolutionary pathway in reptiles.

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.

Data presented at the APA Annual Meeting

Data presented at the APA Annual Meeting demonstrate iloperidone's efficacy and safety in treating schizophrenia, with low rates of movement disorders and metabolic adverse events. Pharmacogenetic findings suggest potential for individualized treatment based on genetic markers.

Sounding out Congo Red

Researchers have developed an approach to degrading Congo Red using ultrasound technology, transforming it into less toxic intermediates. This method combines the power of sonolysis with conventional industrial waste water biodegradation treatment, effectively removing the color and reducing toxicity from dye-contaminated effluent.

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.

Why face symmetry is sexy across cultures and species

Research finds symmetry and sexual dimorphism in human faces are related to attractiveness, supporting the idea that they signal genetic quality. The study also reveals similar patterns in non-human primates and different human populations, indicating universal signals of quality.

Prions show their good side

Normally functioning prions prevent neurons from self-destruction by inducing overactive brain cells that respond longer and more vigorously to stimulation. This hyperactivity eventually leads to neuron death, potentially explaining why misfolded prions cause dementia.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Berkeley Lab researchers propose a new breed of supercomputers

The researchers propose designing a cost-effective machine for running climate models and improving predictions. They suggest using about 20 million embedded microprocessors, which would deliver results at a lower cost and power consumption than current conventional supercomputers.

OHSU psychiatrist to highlight warning signs for school shootings

Dr. Jerald Block's research on the 1999 Columbine high school shootings suggests that virtual worlds played a significant role in the tragedy, blurring boundaries between reality and fantasy. The presentation will also discuss other school shootings, including Red Lake and Virginia Tech.

Common herbicide disrupts human hormone activity in cell studies

Atrazine, a widely used weedkiller, disrupts hormonal signaling in human cells, increasing the risk of abnormal birth weight and infertility. Exposure to atrazine has also been shown to 'feminize' zebrafish, with female fish outnumbering males at concentrations comparable to those found in agricultural runoff.

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.

Child abuse may 'mark' genes in the brains of suicide victims

A study by McGill University scientists found that child abuse may cause differences in epigenetic marking on genes in the brains of men who killed themselves. The researchers also discovered that simple maternal behavior during early childhood has a profound effect on genes and behavior, which can be reversed through treatments.

Priority regions for threatened frog and toad conservation in Latin America

A PLOS study highlights key conservation areas for threatened frogs and toads in Latin America, emphasizing the importance of considering life-history traits. The research reveals that regions with aquatic larval stages are crucial for species like Phyllomedusa ayeaye, while those without tadpoles require targeted conservation efforts.

National scientific meeting on child mental health at Kentucky

The University of Kentucky Center for the Study of Violence Against Children hosts a national scientific meeting on child mental health, featuring research presentations on violence against children and trauma. The event showcases findings on relational poverty, early experiences, and psychotherapy's effects on adult brains.

Life without TORC is 1 big struggle

A team of researchers found that the protein TORC2 is crucial for glucose production and fat storage in Drosophila, a genetic switch that regulates metabolism in both flies and human livers. Without functional TORC, fly lifespan was cut in half and their ability to store energy was impaired.

Smoke-free laws have no impact on employee turnover

A new study examines the impact of smoke-free laws on restaurant labor markets and finds a decline in turnover rates after implementation. The study supports existing evidence that smoke-free laws are positive for businesses, with no consistent pattern of increase or decrease over time.

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.

Don't ask, don't tell: Financial disclosure lacking in literature on stents

Research at Duke University Medical Center found that most published articles about coronary stents do not disclose authors' financial relationships, which may bias scientific data interpretation. The study highlights the need for transparency and standardized conflict of interest information in medical research.

Pilot study reinforces use of portable anteroom HEPA filtration

Researchers found that a portable anteroom HEPA filtration unit can effectively remove airborne microorganisms, including M. tuberculosis, from operating rooms. The study suggests that this unit can help prevent secondary transmission of airborne pathogens and improve patient and healthcare personnel safety.

Arable land can have a negative impact on air quality

Researchers found that arable land and steppe-formation processes can significantly affect global air quality, as evidenced by a dust cloud from southern Ukraine that caused extreme particulate matter concentrations in Central Europe. The study highlights the need for better understanding of dust transport and formation processes, part...

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.