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Science News Archive May 2008 - Page 20


Page 20 of 22

Unexpected role: EGFR protects cancer cells from starving

Researchers at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center found that EGFR stabilizes a protein channeling glucose to cancer cells, saving them from starvation. This discovery may require targeting both EGFR's growth-inducing kinase activity and its glucose-related role to effectively treat epithelial cancers.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateMay 5, 2008

Ecologists tease out private lives of plants and their pollinators

A study published in Functional Ecology reveals that plants producing high-quality pollen have closer relationships with pollinators, which is crucial for the survival of certain bumblebee species. The research found that plants relying on insects for pollination produce pollen with 65% more protein than those not reliant on insects.

SourceWiley·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateMay 5, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Anxiety, mood disorders put cancer patients at risk for PTSD

Breast cancer patients with a history of mood and anxiety disorders are more likely to develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after diagnosis. The study found that 16% of breast cancer patients developed PTSD within 18 months of diagnosis, with women having previous mood disorders being over twice as likely to develop the condition.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Traumatic Stress·DateMay 5, 2008

BILBO1 a bearer of bad fortune for trypanosomes

Researchers identified BILBO1 as crucial for Flagellar Pocket formation in trypanosomes. The protein is essential for the structure's functions, including endo- and exocytosis. Inhibition of BILBO1 function is fatal to the parasite.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 5, 2008

A study reveals how cells communicate to activate the cell division machinery

A study published in the EMBO Journal reveals that distinct signaling pathways between neighboring cells regulate cell division. Notch and Wnt/Wingless pathways control proliferation through gene effectors dMyc and bantam, which instruct E2F to activate the cell division machinery.

SourceInstitute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona)·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateMay 5, 2008

EUROCORES conference gives cold quantum matter a European twist

The EuroQUAM inauguration conference in Barcelona showcased cutting-edge results in cold quantum matter, a field with applications in high-precision measurement and quantum information. The conference aimed to stimulate collaborations between experiment and theory, highlighting the high quality of research in Europe.

SourceEuropean Science Foundation·DateMay 5, 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.

Discovery of a novel mechanism for the development of colon cancer

Researchers at the University of Helsinki have identified a novel mechanism by which harmless colon polyps acquire malignant tumor properties, driven by abnormal PROX1 protein production. Removing PROX1 from cancer cells reverses their malignant behavior, suggesting it as a promising target for future therapies.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalCancer Cell·DateMay 5, 2008

Flip flops, mulch and no coat

A new study has identified several unexpected barriers to children's physical activity at child care centers, including flip flops, mulch, and parental concerns about weather conditions. The study found that these barriers prevent many children from engaging in essential gross motor skills development.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·DateMay 5, 2008

Combined physical and genetic map finds cancer's 'ignition key'

A research team led by M. D. Anderson Cancer Center scientists created a whole-organ genomic survey to chart the molecular journey from normal cell to invasive cancer in bladder tissue. They identified a crucial new category of genes, known as 'forerunner genes,' that launch the process of cancer development.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalLaboratory Investigation·DateMay 5, 2008

Preference for alcohol in adolescence may lead to heavy drinking

A study by Duke University Medical Center found that adolescent rats who demonstrated a taste for alcohol after only three nights of drinking were likely to become the biggest drinkers later on. The research suggests that early drinking patterns may be set and targets efforts to prevent alcoholism in these individuals.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·DateMay 5, 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.

65-million-year-old asteroid impact triggered a global hail of carbon beads

Scientists found tiny airborne carbon cenospheres near an asteroid impact site, formed when carbon deep in the Earth's crust was vaporized and created new structures in the atmosphere. The discovery suggests environmental circumstances were less dramatic than previously thought, challenging the long-held fire-on-Earth hypothesis.

SourceIndiana University·JournalGeology·DateMay 5, 2008

Short arms and legs linked to risk of dementia

A study published by the American Academy of Neurology found that people with shorter arms and legs may be at a higher risk for developing dementia later in life. The association between short limbs and dementia risk may be due to poor nutrition in early life, affecting limb growth.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMay 5, 2008

Cells lining milk ducts hold key to spread of common form of breast cancer

A new study led by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute researchers found that abnormal surrounding cells cause the walls of the ducts to deteriorate, enabling tumor cells to escape. The discovery may lead to screening tests and treatments targeting genetic abnormalities in cells lining the ducts.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalCancer Cell·DateMay 5, 2008

Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology News reports on early ADMET use

Companies like UCB Pharma and CeeTox are using cell-based assays to assess the toxic characteristics of small molecule compounds. This early identification can improve clinical trial results and reduce the time to market.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalGenetic Engineering & Biotechnology News·DateMay 5, 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.

Moran Eye Center researchers find gene linked to severe diabetic eye and kidney diseases

A study published in Proceedings of National Academy of Sciences identifies the erythropoietin (EPO) gene as a contributor to increased risk of severe diabetic eye and kidney diseases. The research highlights the importance of considering blunting EPO's effects in future therapeutic strategies, such as anti-VEGF therapy.

SourceUniversity of Utah Health·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 5, 2008

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for May 6, 2008, issue

The American College of Physicians issues guideline for screening osteoporosis in men over 65, emphasizing regular assessments with DEXA scans. A study finds little difference in fracture prevention between osteoporosis drugs risedronate, raloxifene, and alendronate.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMay 5, 2008

Breastfeeding may improve children's intelligence scores

A randomized trial found that exclusively breastfed children scored an average of 7.5 points higher on verbal intelligence tests and 2.9 points higher on non-verbal intelligence tests compared to formula-fed children. Teachers also rated these children significantly higher academically in reading and writing.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateMay 5, 2008

2 ACE inhibitors associated with higher mortality risks

A study of over 43,000 Canadian patients reveals that two commonly used ACE inhibitors, enalapril and captopril, are associated with a 10-15% increase in mortality compared to ramipril for older adults with congestive heart failure. The authors recommend considering alternative treatments due to the higher mortality risk

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 5, 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.

New agent strikes at respiratory syncytial virus replication

Researchers at UTMB have developed a promising antiviral therapy against RSV using custom-designed molecules that target the genetic machinery of the virus. These 'morpholino oligomers' show minimal toxicity and significantly reduce RSV replication in cell culture and mouse experiments.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalMolecular Therapy·DateMay 5, 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.

Nearly one-third of US parents don't know what to expect of infants

A recent study reveals that nearly one-third of US parents have low-level knowledge of typical infant development, resulting in impaired parent-child interactions. This false parenting assumption can rob kids of cognitive stimulation, as parents often misinterpret behaviors and set unrealistic expectations for their child's growth.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·DateMay 4, 2008

Children more vulnerable to harmful effects of lead

A study found that children's blood lead concentrations at age 6 are associated with reduced IQ and gray matter volume in the prefrontal cortex, highlighting a critical period of vulnerability. Research suggests that even lower levels of lead exposure can result in measurable deficits in cognitive development and behavioral problems.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·DateMay 4, 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.

Scientists identify genomic 'fingerprint' for alcohol-induced heart failure

Researchers have discovered a unique genetic profile associated with alcohol-induced heart failure, which could enable earlier diagnoses and monitor clinical outcomes. The study's findings offer new hope for addressing this condition, particularly when caught early through aggressive intervention.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateMay 4, 2008

Bacterial slime helps cause serious disease

Leptospirosis is a major public health problem in South East Asia and South America, with over 500,000 severe cases every year. Researchers have discovered that bacteria can form biofilms, which protect them against harsh conditions and make them more resistant to antibiotics.

SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalMicrobiology·DateMay 4, 2008

Melting defects could lead to smaller, more powerful microchips

Princeton engineers have created a process that can literally melt away tiny defects on microchips, enabling precise shaping of components without increasing fabrication cost. The method, called Self-Perfection by Liquefaction (SPEL), uses a light pulse from an excimer laser to guide the resulting flow of liquid into desired shapes.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 4, 2008

Turning fungus into fuel

A team of researchers has decoded the genetic sequence of Tricoderma reesei, a fungus that can break down plant fibers into simple sugars. This finding could unlock possibilities for industrial processes that convert corn, switchgrass, and cellulose-based waste into ethanol.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateMay 4, 2008
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.

Scientists discover why plague is so lethal

Bubonic plague bacteria produce excessive aspartic acid due to missing enzyme, contributing to its high lethality. Researchers found that a single genetic mutation in Yersinia pestis leads to this imbalance.

SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalMicrobiology·DateMay 4, 2008

Alcoholism is not just a 'man's disease' anymore

Researchers found substantial increases in drinking and alcohol dependence among women, particularly white and Hispanic women, between 1991 and 2002. The study suggests that social acceptability of women's drinking increased, leading to a rise in alcohol dependence, especially among those who drank.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateMay 4, 2008

Gene sequence that can make half of us fatter is discovered

Researchers have identified a gene sequence associated with an expanding waist line, weight gain, and insulin resistance, affecting half of the UK population. The sequence is more common in Indian Asians than Europeans, providing a possible genetic explanation for the high levels of obesity and diabetes in this group.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 4, 2008
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.

Getting wise to the influenza virus' tricks

Researchers at EMBL and CNRS identified the key protein domain responsible for binding to host RNA molecules, allowing the virus to multiply. The PB2 cap-binding site is a promising target for designing mimics of the cap that would inhibit viral replication.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateMay 4, 2008

Mothers less likely to pursue HPV vaccination for youngest daughters

A recent study found that US mothers are less likely to vaccinate their youngest daughters against human papillomavirus virus (HPV), even though the vaccine is recommended for girls aged 11 and 12. The researchers identified key factors associated with intention to vaccinate, including beliefs about HPV vaccination and perceived benefits.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·DateMay 4, 2008

A safer alternative to aspirin?

A study published in The Lancet Neurology found that cilostazol is as effective as aspirin in preventing recurrent stroke, but causes fewer bleeding events. This suggests that cilostazol could be a more effective and safer alternative for Chinese patients with ischemic stroke.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateMay 4, 2008

Controlling embryonic fate by association

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine found that the association between Nanog and Oct4 proteins with transcription repression complexes determines embryonic stem cell fate. The complex, called NODE, contains histone deacetylases that control gene expression.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMay 4, 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.

Nixing immaturity in red blood cells

The Nix protein plays a crucial role in the maturation of red blood cells by facilitating autophagy, a process that removes damaged organelles like mitochondria. This regulation is essential for maintaining cellular quality and preventing anemia.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature·DateMay 4, 2008

Second genetic link to weight and obesity

A recent study published in Nature Genetics has identified two new genetic variants associated with fat mass, weight, and risk of obesity. The variants, located near the MC4R gene, act in addition to previously described FTO gene variants, resulting in an average increase of 3.8 kg (or 8.5 lb) in weight.

SourceWellcome Trust Sanger Institute·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 4, 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.

Uninsured kids in middle class have same unmet needs as poor

Research from the University of Rochester Medical Center reveals that uninsured children in middle-class families are just as likely to go without health care as those in poorer families. Nearly 3 million children had no medical care and no prescription use for a full year, according to an analysis of nationally representative data.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·DateMay 3, 2008

Fixing up 'this old house' may increase young

A new study found that interior renovation of older housing is associated with a modest increase in children's blood lead levels and long-term health risks. To reduce the risk, parents can take precautions such as wearing personal protective devices and hiring contractors with lead safety training.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·DateMay 3, 2008

Treatment advances for fibroids, menopause

Treatment advances for fibroids and endometriosis aim to preserve reproductive potential while treating these conditions. Novel conservative approaches, including medical treatments and non-invasive procedures, are now available, offering women more choices during menopause.

SourceYale University·DateMay 3, 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.

Study shows gene variations may predict risk of breast cancer in women

A recent study led by Northwestern Memorial physician Virginia Kaklamani suggests that variations of the adiponectin gene may increase a woman's risk of developing breast cancer. This discovery could lead to the development of a genetic testing model to predict breast cancer risk more accurately.

SourceNorthwestern Memorial HealthCare·JournalCancer Research·DateMay 2, 2008

NASA calls on APL to send a probe to the sun

The Solar Probe mission will study the streams of charged particles emitted by the sun, exploring the processes that heat its corona and produce solar wind. The spacecraft will zip past the sun at speeds up to 125 miles per second, gathering data on magnetic fields, energy flow, and energetic particle formation.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateMay 2, 2008
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.