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Science News for November 11, 2008


Previous abortions and exercise: Do they affect pregnancy?

Women who have had two or more induced abortions have a 60% reduced risk of pre-eclampsia compared to those with no history. Physical activity during pregnancy shows some protection against pre-eclampsia, particularly among women under 25 BMI.

SourceNorwegian Institute of Public Health·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateNov 11, 2008

Possible association between CP and LC of alcoholic etiology

A recent study investigated the possible association between chronic pancreatitis (CP) and liver cirrhosis (LC) in alcoholic patients. The research found an inverse correlation between pancreatic and liver function tests, suggesting that these diseases evolve differently and have distinct etiopathogeny.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateNov 11, 2008

'Airport malaria' -- cause for concern in the US

Warmer climate changes and international travel are creating an ideal environment for mosquitoes to survive and thrive near airports, leading to increased risk of malaria transmission. This phenomenon, known as airport malaria, can also spread other diseases like dengue and Chikungunya fever.

SourceAmerican Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateNov 11, 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.

Funding for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's research

Researchers will investigate new ways of developing clinical trials for Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. The study aims to improve the speed, cost-effectiveness, and relevance of treatments, benefiting patients and their carers.

SourceThe Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry·DateNov 11, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

An ideal therapy for peptic ulcer disease

Researchers have developed a quadruple therapy regimen that shows promise in treating peptic ulcer disease, achieving an eradication rate of 68.8% in a study of 51 patients. The new treatment combines omeprazole, amoxicillin, clarithromycin, and furazolidone, with only 31.4% of patients experiencing adverse effects.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateNov 11, 2008

Preventing anemia is important to kidney disease patients' quality of life

A study found that preventing anemia in kidney disease patients is crucial for their physical and mental health. The researchers recommend that treatment should be initiated at lower hemoglobin levels to improve quality of life, contrary to current FDA statements.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateNov 11, 2008

Rheumatoid arthritis breakthrough

Researchers have created a new strategy for controlling autoimmune responses in rheumatoid arthritis by genetically engineering Foxp3 regulatory cells. These cells can be activated to suppress the immune response, potentially reversing or inhibiting the disease process.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateNov 11, 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.

Genetics for personalized coronary heart disease treatment

A study published at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions reveals a common genetic variation associated with an increased risk of heart events. The discovery enables better prediction of individual risk and informs more targeted treatment approaches.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·DateNov 11, 2008

LSUHSC public health contributes to estimate of HPV-related cancers

A comprehensive assessment of HPV-associated cancers found significant racial disparities, with higher rates among African American women and Hispanic men. The study also identified the most common types of HPV-related cancers, including cervical, anal, and oral cancers.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalCancer·DateNov 11, 2008

Hypertension: A worrying European scenario

A European study found that many people are unaware of their high blood pressure and struggle to manage it. Despite increasing awareness, only half of those diagnosed have optimal control, highlighting the need for urgent initiatives to address this critical health threat.

SourceCatholic University - Campobasso·JournalJournal of Hypertension·DateNov 11, 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.

Cell-coated stent as effective as drug-coated ones but needs less meds

A new stent coated with an antibody that binds endothelial progenitor cells has been found to be as effective as drug-eluting stents in keeping arteries open in patients with coronary heart disease. The study of 1,640 international patients showed low rates of stent blockage and revascularization procedures.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 11, 2008

What happens in Vegas? Place as a risk factor for suicide

A recent study by Temple University Sociology Professor Matt Wray found that Las Vegas faces a significantly higher suicide rate than the rest of the country. Residents and visitors to the city are more likely to die by suicide, with some even experiencing an increased risk when traveling away from home.

SourceTemple University·JournalSocial Science & Medicine·DateNov 11, 2008

New technology could revolutionize breast cancer screening

A new radar breast imaging system has been developed at the University of Bristol, which uses radio waves to create a 3D image of the breast without radiation risk. The system has been trialled at North Bristol NHS Trust and shows promise in detecting abnormalities earlier than current methods.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·DateNov 11, 2008

New technique to study the genetics of breast cancer

Researchers aim to identify undiscovered genes involved in early breast cancer stages by studying genetic information from thousands of breast samples. The technique could help monitor women at higher risk due to inherited gene defects, reducing mortality from breast cancer.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateNov 11, 2008

Does HBV infection induce acute cellular DNA damage?

HBV infection induces increased steady state of ATR protein and phosphorylation of downstream targets including Chk1, p53, and H2AX. The level of Mre11 and p21 were reduced after HBV-positive serum addition. This suggests that HBV escapes the consequences of activation of the DNA damage checkpoint by degradation of checkpoint proteins.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateNov 11, 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.

Obese kids' artery plaque similar to middle-aged adults

Research reveals that obese children's neck artery plaque thickness is comparable to that of 45-year-olds, indicating a high risk of heart disease and stroke. The study found that children with obesity, abnormal cholesterol levels, and high triglycerides had advanced vascular ages.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 11, 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.

UD researchers show that plants can accumulate nanoparticles in tissues

Researchers at the University of Delaware found that plants can take up nanoparticles and accumulate them in their tissues. The study provides a new experimental approach for studying nanoparticles and their potential impacts on the environment and human health.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of Environmental Monitoring·DateNov 11, 2008

Purdue researcher invents molecule that stops SARS

A Purdue University researcher has created a compound that prevents replication of the SARS virus, which could lead to a treatment for the disease. The molecular inhibitor was developed through structure-based design and has been tested in laboratory settings.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 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.

Scientists map steps to block key enzyme action in heart failure

Researchers at Johns Hopkins have identified the chemical step involved in blocking the phosphodiesterase 5 enzyme, which slows down the breakdown of cyclic GMP and contributes to heart failure. The discovery paves the way for targeted drug therapies to stall progression of heart failure and hypertrophy.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·DateNov 11, 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.

UNC study: Text messaging may help children fight off obesity

A new UNC study suggests that cell phone text messaging can be an effective tool for self-monitoring healthy behaviors in children. The study found that children who used text messaging to report their calorie intake, exercise, and screen time had a lower attrition rate and greater adherence to monitoring than those using paper diaries.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateNov 11, 2008

Without enzyme, biological reaction essential to life takes 2.3 billion years

Scientists have discovered a biological transformation that occurs in the absence of an enzyme, taking 2.3 billion years to complete. This finding highlights the importance of enzymes as catalysts in life processes and has implications for drug design and molecular studies.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2008

Low risk for heart attack? Could an ultrasound hold the answer?

Researchers used ultrasound imaging to view carotid intima media thickness, revealing those in the higher end of low-risk group had intermediate risk for coronary heart disease. The study found that about 4% of individuals with estimated 0-5% risk had a heart attack, while over 13% of those with 5-10% risk suffered from coronary events.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·DateNov 11, 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.

Minority children waiting for heart transplants have higher death rates

Research found that minority children waiting for heart transplants had significantly higher mortality rates than their white counterparts, even after controlling for age, health status, and socioeconomic factors. The study revealed a 60% greater chance of death among black children, a 50% higher mortality rate among Hispanics, and a 1...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 11, 2008

Sex and the pond snail

A study by Hayley Frend found that pond snails exhibit handedness in mating behavior, mirroring brain asymmetry pre-programmed by their mother's genes. This discovery sheds light on brain specialization and its importance across species.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalBiology Letters·DateNov 11, 2008

New laser method reproduces art masterworks to protein patterns

Canadian researchers have developed a new laser technology that can mimic protein patterns surrounding cells, enabling the reproduction of complex cellular environments and miniature artwork. The technique has great potential for advances in neuroscience.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalLab on a Chip·DateNov 11, 2008

Evolution's new wrinkle

Researchers at Princeton University have discovered that protein chains act as adaptive machines, controlling their own evolution in response to natural selection. This finding extends Darwin's model and suggests that organisms can subtly direct aspects of their evolution to create order out of randomness.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 11, 2008

Fiddler crabs reveal honesty is not always the best policy

Fiddler crabs grow weak and puny 'cheap' claws that deceive rivals about their fighting ability, highlighting the widespread nature of dishonesty in animal communication. The study sheds light on how animals like fiddler crabs bluff their way to survival and reproductive success.

SourceWiley·JournalFunctional Ecology·DateNov 11, 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.

Increased nonfasting triglyceride levels associated with higher risk of stroke

Elevated nonfasting triglyceride levels are associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke, according to a large population-based study. The study found that men and women with higher triglyceride levels had significantly increased risks of stroke, with the risk doubling or tripling for certain ranges of triglyceride levels.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateNov 11, 2008

Calcium plus vitamin D supplementation is not associated with a reduced breast cancer risk

A randomized trial of over 36,000 postmenopausal women found no association between calcium and vitamin D supplementation and reduced breast cancer risk. The findings challenge previous observational studies suggesting a potential link between vitamin D levels and breast cancer incidence.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateNov 11, 2008

Joyful music may promote heart health

Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine discovered that joyful music can promote heart health by dilating blood vessels, similar to laughter. The study showed a significant increase in blood vessel diameter after listening to joyful music, while anxious music caused narrowing.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·DateNov 11, 2008

Brain implants may help stroke patients overcome partial paralysis

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed a new brain-computer interface (BCI) technology that can detect and decode brain signals associated with hand and arm movements on the same side of the body. This breakthrough may enable patients with partial paralysis to regain mobility in their limbs.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalStroke·DateNov 11, 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.

Luminescence shines new light on proteins

A team of scientists has developed a new type of probe for examining protein interactions using luminescence, enabling non-invasive tracking of protein association in living cells. The technique could aid understanding of serum albumin function and drug-protein interactions.

SourceDurham University·JournalChemical Communications·DateNov 11, 2008

Is sildenafil safe in cirrhosis patients?

Research on sildenafil use in cirrhosis patients found that it does not induce profound changes in splanchnic blood flow and portal hypertension. The study suggests phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibition is not a useful therapeutic agent for alleviating portal hypertension in end-stage liver disease.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateNov 11, 2008

USAID grant awarded to improve food security in Africa

The US Agency for International Development has awarded a $1 million grant to Virginia Tech to enhance agricultural productivity and trade barriers in Africa. The project aims to increase yields, reduce crop risks, and promote long-term productivity growth through science-based methods.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateNov 11, 2008
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Treating heart failure with a gas

Researchers at Emory University School of Medicine found that low concentrations of hydrogen sulfide can protect mice from heart failure. The gas is administered intravenously to treat humans with heart failure, showing promising results in regaining heart function and reducing mortality.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateNov 11, 2008

Pivotal Emory study focuses on teens at risk for psychosis

Researchers aim to identify youth at high risk for psychosis with 85-95% accuracy, using brain development patterns, electrical activity, and gene expression. The study seeks to understand the neural mechanisms involved and potentially modify cortisol secretion to buffer teenagers against its effects.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·DateNov 11, 2008

Also in the Nov. 11 JNCI

A recent study discovered that the Overexpressed in Lung Cancer 1 (OLC1) gene is consistently expressed at high levels in most lung cancers, particularly in smokers. OLC1 overexpression was also shown to induce tumor formation in tissue culture cells and mouse models of lung cancer.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateNov 11, 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.

Protein can nurture or devastate brain cells, depending on its 'friends,' researchers find

Researchers discovered that Cdk5 protein stimulates stem-cell maturation but also causes neurodegenerative diseases. Removing Cdk5 from immature nerve cells promotes normal cell division, but the cells never reach maturity. The 'Mr. Hyde' component of Cdk5 causes destructive effects on motor coordination and learning.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 11, 2008

AAO-SOE Joint Meeting research highlights

A clinical study presented at the AAO-SOE Joint Meeting shows that anti-VEGF therapy can effectively treat retinopathy of prematurity in premature infants, resolving abnormal blood vessels and promoting normal retinal vessel growth. The treatment has been found to be rapid, effective, and simpler than existing laser treatments.

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·DateNov 11, 2008

Brisk walk could help chocoholics stop snacking

Researchers at the University of Exeter found that a 15-minute brisk walk can reduce chocolate cravings in regular eaters. The exercise not only lowered cravings during the walk but also for at least ten minutes afterwards.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAppetite·DateNov 11, 2008