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Science News for May 20, 2008


Risk threshold of daily alcohol intake and drinking duration in liver injury?

A study published in World Journal of Gastroenterology found that daily alcohol intake above 20g increases the risk of liver injury, while drinking for 5 years or more also poses a significant threat. The research highlights the importance of obesity as a contributing factor to liver damage.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 20, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sleep deprivation affects ability to make sense of what we see

Neuroscience researchers found that sleep-deprived brains can process simple visuals but struggle with higher-level visual tasks, such as recognizing letters. The study suggests that sleep deprivation can lead to periods of normal functioning followed by severe drops in visual processing and attention.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·DateMay 20, 2008

Liver diseases: striving toward better diagnosis and treatment

Scientists have created human liver cells from embryonic stem cells, enabling drug toxicity studies and potential treatments for liver diseases. Researchers also found that innate immunity influences the response to treatment for chronic hepatitis C and discovered a link between urinary tract infections and primary biliary cirrhosis.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·DateMay 20, 2008

Protein key to neuro-regeneration

Researchers at Peninsula Medical School have identified a protein called c-Jun that plays a vital role in the regeneration of damage in the peripheral nervous system. This discovery could lead to understanding and treating diseases such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and Guillain-Barre disease.

SourceThe Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateMay 20, 2008

What roles does TSP-1 play in liver fibrogenesis?

Thrombospondin 1 (TSP-1) expression correlates with the progression of fibrosis and angiogenesis in experimental cirrhosis. The study suggests that TSP-1 may contribute to wound healing response to liver injury by inducing angiogenesis.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 20, 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.

What else may probiotics do in adults?

A study found that probiotics have anti-inflammatory potential in healthy adults, characterized by decreased serum CRP levels and reduced production of proinflammatory cytokines. This suggests a possible therapeutic application for probiotics in the prevention or treatment of inflammatory diseases.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 20, 2008

Seeing clearly despite the clouds

Scientists at PNNL developed a way to reduce cloud-induced glare when satellites measure blue skies on cloudy days, allowing for more accurate estimates of sunlight penetration. The new approach improves visibility by as much as ten-fold in some cases, enabling better climate modeling.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 20, 2008
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

A new change in the chromosome of patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Researchers discovered chromosomal gains and losses associated with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) in a study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology. The study identified specific genetic regions, including 6p, 20p, and 10pq, that may harbor ESCC-related oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 20, 2008

Which is accurate, CT or MRI?

A study published in World Journal of Gastroenterology found that CT scans and MRI scans are equally accurate in detecting paraaortic lymph node metastasis in patients with pancreatico-biliary carcinoma. The results support the current clinical practice of using both imaging modalities for evaluating this condition.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 20, 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.

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.

Study reveals link among childhood allergies, asthma symptoms, and early life exposure to cats

A study published in Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that early life exposure to cats may reduce the risk of developing asthma symptoms. Children with cat ownership were more likely to make allergy-related antibodies and less likely to have wheeze at age five.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateMay 20, 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.

A promising tumor gene therapeutic target: tMK

Researchers found that overexpressed midkine (MK) and its truncated form (tMK) significantly promote the proliferation of gastric adenocarcinoma cells and tumor growth in nude mice. This study suggests tMK as a promising therapeutic target for gastric cancer treatment.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 20, 2008

Determining genetic signature of lung tumors can help guide treatment

A US clinical trial confirms early use of targeted therapies like gefitinib can improve lung cancer patient outcomes. The study found that 31 out of 34 patients with sensitizing EGFR mutations showed significant tumor shrinkage or no growth after receiving Iressa treatment.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMay 20, 2008

New prognostic markers for gastric cancer patients

Researchers discovered a correlation between syndecan-1, E-cadherin and integrins with gastric cancer prognosis. The study suggests these markers could be important indexes for predicting the outcome of gastric carcinoma patients.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 20, 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.

NIAID to advance B-cell approach to HIV vaccines

The NIAID research program aims to uncover mechanisms to enable scientists to outwit HIV and stimulate the production of long-lasting antibodies that can neutralize many strains of the virus. By understanding how B cells recognize antigens and producing broad-spectrum antibodies, researchers hope to develop a preventive HIV vaccine.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateMay 20, 2008

A better method is found for the treatment of patients with portal hypertension

Researchers have discovered a better method for treating patients with portal hypertension, combining spironolactone and propranolol. The study found that this combination reduces the risk of variceal re-bleeding and is effective in patients who have never bled or have had previous episodes.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 20, 2008

Research tool can detect autism at 9 months of age

Researchers at McMaster University have developed an eye-tracking technology that can detect autism in babies as young as nine months old. This tool distinguishes between siblings with autism and those without at this early age, offering a faster and more objective diagnostic process.

SourceMcMaster University·DateMay 20, 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.

Study identifies trends of vitamin B6 status in US population sample

Researchers at Tufts University identified groups with inadequate vitamin B6 status, including women of reproductive age and smokers. The study found a significant link between oral contraceptive use and low plasma pyridoxal 5'- phosphate levels.

SourceTufts University, Health Sciences Campus·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateMay 20, 2008

Do chemicals in the environment affect fertility?

A three-year study will investigate how low levels of environmental chemicals affect sheep foetuses and potentially human health. The researchers aim to understand the long-term reproductive effects of exposure to hormone-like chemicals, which could have greater consequences for females than males.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateMay 20, 2008

COPD patients benefit more from pulmonary rehab in earlier stages

Researchers found that COPD patients who lived longer than two years obtained more positive results from their PR program than those with end-stage COPD. The study suggests that other factors present at end of life may contribute to poorer outcomes in exercise capacity and quality of life.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 20, 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.

Scientists find first dinosaur tracks on Arabian Peninsula

Researchers found evidence of a large ornithopod dinosaur and a herd of 11 sauropods walking together along a Mesozoic coastal mudflat in Yemen. The discovery provides insight into dinosaur herding behavior, with the trackways preserved in rocks likely dating back to the Late Jurassic period.

SourceOhio University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 20, 2008

How can we measure the emotional states of animals?

A new approach measures animal emotional states based on human psychology findings that emotions affect information processing. Rats in standard conditions show stronger responses to lost rewards than those in enriched environments, suggesting a negative emotional state.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalBiology Letters·DateMay 20, 2008

Overweight in adolescence gives increased mortality rate

A new study finds that people who were overweight in adolescence have a higher risk of mortality from endocrine, nutritional, and metabolic diseases, cardiovascular diseases, colon cancer, and respiratory diseases. The study of 230,000 Norwegian adolescents found an increased mortality rate among those with high BMI.

SourceNorwegian Institute of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateMay 20, 2008

How to diagnose and treat Gardner syndrome with gastric polyposis

A case report describes the diagnosis and treatment of Gardner syndrome with gastric polyposis in a 23-year-old female patient. The patient underwent restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch anal anastomosis, showing gradual recovery from malnutrition and anemia.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 20, 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.

Global menopause summit concludes HRT is safe for healthy women entering menopause

Global menopause experts conclude that HRT is safe and beneficial for healthy women in the early postmenopausal period. The Zürich Summit reviews evidence on the safety, risks, and benefits of HRT, finding no increased risk of chronic heart disease or breast cancer in this group. HRT also maintains bone health and may delay cognitive d...

SourceInternational Menopause Society·DateMay 20, 2008

New patient satisfaction study with budesonide/formoterol combination therapy

A new study found that patients receiving budesonide/formoterol combination therapy reported significantly greater satisfaction with symptom relief, dosing management, and timeliness of medication effects. In contrast, patients treated with fluticasone/salmeterol combination therapy experienced lower levels of satisfaction in these areas.

SourceEdelman Public Relations, New York·DateMay 20, 2008

Economist labors over employment relationships

A researcher studies job satisfaction among Chinese workers, examining unique labor market institutions such as membership in the Communist Party. His work also explores motivating factors for workers, including high performance workplaces, performance pay, and family-friendly practices.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin - Milwaukee·JournalEconomica·DateMay 20, 2008

A new indicator for esophageal varix in alcoholic disease

Researchers found that serum type IV collagen is a predictive factor of esophageal varices in patients with severe alcoholic disease. The combination of abdominal ultrasound scan and type IV collagen correctly identified patients with esophageal varices at a high rate.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 20, 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.

Study analyzed SYMBICORT in children with persistent asthma

A new study analyzed SYMBICORT in children with persistent asthma, showing significant improvements in nighttime symptoms, rescue medication use, and lung function. The results indicate that SYMBICORT is effective for treating mild to moderate persistent asthma in children aged 6-15.

SourceEdelman Public Relations, New York·DateMay 20, 2008

Tuberculosis not the only risk from new immunological drugs

A survey of infectious diseases physicians found that patients taking immune-modulating therapies are at risk for nontuberculosis mycobacterial infections, histoplasmosis, and invasive S. aureus infections. Clinicians should be vigilant for these infections, particularly in patients with underlying lung disease.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateMay 20, 2008

Carbon nanotubes that look like asbestos, behave like asbestos

Researchers found that long, thin multi-walled carbon nanotubes behave like asbestos fibers when inhaled, posing a risk of mesothelioma. The study suggests steps should be taken to prevent inhalation and regulate their use.

SourceWoodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars/Science and Technology Innovation Program·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 20, 2008

What are the features of Chinese patients with reflux esophagitis?

The study found that Chinese patients with reflux esophagitis had a peak age of onset between 40¨C60 years, with more male patients than female ones. The mean age of onset was lower in males than females. H pylori infection rates were significantly decreased in patients with esophagitis, but severity was not associated. Older age and h...

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 20, 2008

How to increase the chances of remaining virus free Pakistani patients with HCV?

A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that Pakistani patients with genotype-3 HCV who achieve rapid virological response (RVR) within four weeks of therapy are more likely to achieve sustained virological response (SVR). Patients with initial high levels of ALT were also more likely to attain RVR.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 20, 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.

Farm moms may help children beat allergies

A study of farming mothers and their children found that those exposed to farms had higher functioning regulatory T cells, which can suppress immune responses. This increase was strongest among babies born to mothers who spent time on farms or drank farm milk, suggesting a potential preventive strategy against allergic diseases.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 20, 2008

Scientists 'paint' viruses to track their fate in the body

Researchers develop a technique to coat viruses with proteins, allowing for easier tracking and treatment of infectious diseases. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for cancer, cardiovascular, metabolic, and inherited disorders.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateMay 20, 2008

Heterotopic gastric tissue simulating acute appendicitis

A unique surgical case presented a patient with heterotopic gastric tissue simulating acute appendicitis. The inflammation from the gastric tissue caused localized pain and elevated white blood cell count. Removal of the inflamed lymph node containing the gastric tissue resolved the symptoms.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 20, 2008

How are pancreatic stellate cells activated?

GAL-3 stimulates pancreatic stellate cell activation, which promotes the proliferation and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells. This interaction provides a new therapeutic target for controlling pancreatic cancer.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 20, 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.

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.

Incense is psychoactive: Scientists identify the biology behind the ceremony

Researchers discover that burning frankincense activates poorly understood ion channels in the brain, alleviating anxiety and depression. Incensole acetate, a Boswellia resin constituent, activates TRPV3 channels, providing a potential new class of depression and anxiety treatments.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateMay 20, 2008

New pharmacological effect of Jianpi Huoxue Decoction

Researchers have confirmed that Jianpi Huoxue decoction inhibits targets in LPS-activated Kupffer cell signal pathway, reducing cytokine expression and endotoxin receptor activity. The study provides new evidence for JHD's potential therapeutic benefits for alcoholic liver injury.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 20, 2008

A potential route for human tumor gene therapy

Researchers investigated using gene therapy to inhibit NHE1 in human gastric carcinoma cells, leading to apoptosis of tumor cells. The study found that inhibition of NHE1 reduced malignant phenotypes and restrained tumor cell survival.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 20, 2008

U of M study: New blood test reveals risk for metabolic syndrome

Researchers discovered a link between high oxidized LDL levels and increased risk of developing metabolic syndrome, which can lead to heart disease. Those with the highest levels of oxidized LDL were 3.5 times more likely to develop metabolic syndrome over five years.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalJournal of the American Medical Directors Association·DateMay 20, 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.

How to save cost for esophageal varices?

A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that reloading a multiband ligator instead of using a new one can significantly reduce the cost of treating esophageal varices. The procedure, which involves reusing the same band ligator for multiple sessions, resulted in a 58% reduction in costs.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 20, 2008