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Science News for October 22, 2008


Bevacizumab better than gold standard imaging at detecting tumors

Scientists have developed a new imaging agent using bevacizumab, which surpasses existing methods in detecting tumors. The compound successfully targets cancer cells and provides clearer images of tumors, enabling earlier stages of detection and fewer false positives.

SourceECCO-the European CanCer Organisation·DateOct 22, 2008

Earlier global warming produced a whole new form of life

Researchers have discovered a new species of microorganism that thrived 55 million years ago during a period of abrupt global warming. The 'giant' magnetofossils, which are up to eight times larger than previously known ones, provide valuable insights into the potential effects of significant climate changes on life.

SourceMcGill University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 22, 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 great crash of 2008

The UK economy is expected to contract in the second half of 2008, with a forecasted GDP decline of 0.9% in 2009 and consumer spending declining by 3.4%. The financial sector crisis will spread to the wider economy through credit rationing, caution among firms and consumers, and reduced equity prices.

SourceSAGE Publications UK·JournalNational Institute Economic Review·DateOct 22, 2008

Caltech geobiologists discover unique 'magnetic death star' fossil

Researchers found giant magnetic crystals, unlike anything previously seen, in fossil layers deposited during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum, an ancient global-warming event. The unique 'Magnetic Death Star' fossils provide insights into radical environmental transformation and may hold clues for understanding future climate change.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 22, 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.

Could brain abnormality predict drug addiction?

Researchers at the University of Nottingham are using MRI technology to investigate whether brain abnormalities can predict drug addiction. The three-year study aims to understand why some people become addicted while others do not, with a focus on the frontal cortex and its role in decision-making.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateOct 22, 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.

U of MN study shows link between gene variations and cancer survival

A University of Minnesota study has identified genetic markers associated with early clinical relapse of multiple myeloma. The research suggests that a patient's genetic background influences their prognosis and response to treatment, paving the way for individualized assessments and personalized therapies.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalBMC Medicine·DateOct 22, 2008

Overweight mums have chubby bubs

Research at University of New South Wales finds a link between maternal obesity and increased body fat in offspring. Pups from obese mother rats were nearly twice as heavy as those born to lean mothers with regular milk consumption.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalEndocrinology·DateOct 22, 2008

Biologists discover gene behind 'plant sex mystery'

Researchers from the University of Leicester and South Korea have discovered a gene, FBL17, that triggers precursor cells to divide into twin sperm cells. This discovery sheds light on the 'double fertilization' process, essential for seed production in flowering plants.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalNature·DateOct 22, 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.

Adult liver transplant eligibility criteria

A study published in Liver International found that Canadian liver transplant centres are more willing to consider patients who smoke marijuana, while US programmes say no, highlighting the need for evidence-based eligibility criteria.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalLiver International·DateOct 22, 2008

Scientists find new genes linked to lung cancer

Researchers have discovered 26 new genes linked to lung adenocarcinoma, a type of non-small cell lung cancer. The study's findings suggest that these genetic alterations can be targeted with specific treatments, offering new hope for patients.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature·DateOct 22, 2008

Scientists unlock secret of death protein's activation

Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute identified a trigger point on a naturally occurring death protein that helps the body get rid of unwanted or diseased cells. The newly found trigger may be exploited as a target for designer drugs that force malignant cells to commit suicide.

SourceDana-Farber Cancer Institute·JournalNature·DateOct 22, 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.

Norhealth leads the way for public health information systems

Norhealth is a web-based system monitoring health trends and risk factors in Norway, creating a knowledge base for health strategies. The Norwegian Institute of Public Health has developed this leading public health information system in Europe.

SourceNorwegian Institute of Public Health·JournalScandinavian Journal of Public Health·DateOct 22, 2008

New research could save lives and millions of dollars

A new protocol, PAST, reduces pre-hospital delays for stroke patients, increasing those treated with thrombolytic therapy from 4.7% to 21.4%. The protocol could save an estimated $31.2 million annually by enabling more patients to receive brain-saving treatment within the three-hour window.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalThe Medical Journal of Australia·DateOct 22, 2008

Childhood environmental health

The World Health Organization and Boston University team highlights the urgent need to assess environmental burdens on children's health. Childhood exposure to pollution, toxins, and poor sanitation leads to diseases like diarrheal illnesses, lower respiratory infections, and malaria.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Environment and Health·DateOct 22, 2008

New hope for multiple sclerosis sufferers

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have discovered that alemtuzumab may not only stop MS from advancing but also restore lost functions in patients. The study found that alemtuzumab reduces attacks by 74% and disability accumulation by 71% compared to a current treatment.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 22, 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.

Mapping a clan of mobile selfish genes

A study mapped the clan of mobile selfish genes Alu retrotransposons in the human genome, revealing that around 10,000 elements are still capable of jumping around and posing a major threat to human genetics. The research provides valuable insights into the behavior of these elements and their potential impact on personalized genomics.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalGenome Research·DateOct 22, 2008

Effective anti-tobacco ads should either scare or disgust viewers, MU study reveals

A new study from the University of Missouri found that anti-tobacco ads focusing on either fear or disgust increase attention and memory in viewers. However, ads combining both elements decrease viewers' attention and memory. The researchers suggest that the combination of fear and disgust can make an ad 'too noxious' for the viewer.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalHealth Communication·DateOct 22, 2008

Seeing red -- in the number 7

A new study by UCL researchers suggests that hypnosis can induce synaesthetic experiences in people without extra brain connections. They used posthypnotic suggestion to show that non-synesthetes could experience digit-colour synaesthesia, reporting similar experiences as real synaesthetes.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 22, 2008

A special issue on advances in new generation Internet architecture research

This special issue explores the fundamental research of new-generation Internet architecture, addressing major technical challenges such as scalability, security, and high-performance. The studies aim to provide theoretical foundations and scientific-proof support for solving these challenges and carry out technological innovation.

SourceScience China Press·DateOct 22, 2008
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Researchers show how to 'stamp' nanodevices with rubber molds

Cornell researchers develop a cost-effective method to create nanoscale devices by manipulating fluid droplets and using silicone rubber molds. The technique allows for the production of various architectures, including wires, disks, squares, triangles, and superlattices, with potential applications in computer memory and photonics.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateOct 22, 2008

Study shows how antibiotic sets up road block to kill bacteria

Researchers have discovered the mechanism behind how a specific antibiotic, myxopyronin, kills bacteria. The study found that the antibiotic binds to RNA polymerase, interfering with its ability to use DNA to start gene expression, effectively creating a road block that halts bacterial growth.

SourceOhio State University·JournalNature·DateOct 22, 2008

JDRF to provide $1M in funding to SmartCells, Inc.

SmartCells' SmartInsulin is a once-a-day, glucose-regulated insulin that maintains continuous blood glucose control while reducing hypoglycemia risk. JDRF's $1M funding supports preclinical safety and efficacy testing for this treatment, aiming to improve patient safety and quality of life.

SourceJDRF·DateOct 22, 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.

Scientists unwrap the elements of life

Scientists at Newcastle University have discovered a mechanism that ensures the correct metal binds to proteins, which has potential applications in synthetic biology and treating diseases such as Alzheimer's. The research found that protein folding location determines metal binding, revealing new insights into protein-metal interactions.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature·DateOct 22, 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.

Memories selectively, safely erased in mice

Researchers have developed a method to selectively and safely remove memories from mice by over-expressing a protein critical to brain cell communication. This technique eliminates new and old memories alike, with potential applications for treating traumatic war memories or unwanted fears.

SourceMedical College of Georgia at Augusta University·JournalNeuron·DateOct 22, 2008

Gene find sheds light on motor neuron diseases like ALS

Scientists have identified a gene in mice that plays a central role in the development of corticospinal neurons, which degenerate in patients with ALS. The discovery provides insight into how stem cells in the brain become specific types of neurons.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNeuron·DateOct 22, 2008

Seeing a brain as it learns to see

A Duke University research team observed a naïve brain organizing itself to interpret images of motion for the first time. The study revealed that individual neurons develop specific responses and become organized into functional assemblies called cortical columns.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature·DateOct 22, 2008

Unraveling the genetic picture of lung cancer

A study of 188 patients revealed 26 genes involved in the development of lung adenocarcinoma and its sub-types, including those in non-smokers. The findings could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options for this deadliest form of lung cancer.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature·DateOct 22, 2008

New way of inhibiting cell cycle shows promise

A new anti-cancer compound, BI 6727, has shown encouraging anti-tumour activity in a phase I clinical trial. The compound works by inhibiting the action of Polo-like kinase 1, leading to abnormal mitotic spindles and disrupting cell division.

SourceECCO-the European CanCer Organisation·DateOct 22, 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.

Streamlining brain signals for speed and efficacy

Researchers at the Salk Institute discovered that the signal transmission between neurons in the brain stem, which controls balance and breathing, is linear, unlike most other signals. The study sheds light on the mechanisms controlling these vital functions and may lead to new biotherapeutic agents.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalNeuron·DateOct 22, 2008

UK teen suicide rates on the decline

Suicide rates among UK teens aged 10-19 decreased by 28%, particularly among males, who experienced a 35% drop. Young males are more likely to commit suicide than females, with three times the rate of female adolescents.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateOct 22, 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.

Landmark genomic study of lung cancer published in Nature

A collaborative study of nearly 200 lung cancer patients has identified over 1,000 genetic alterations and pinpointed 26 frequently altered genes. The research highlights the importance of integrating multiple large-scale approaches to highlight key molecular defects in lung tumors.

SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalNature·DateOct 22, 2008

Large-scale genetic study sheds new light on lung cancer

A multi-institution team has identified 26 genes that are frequently mutated in lung adenocarcinoma, more than doubling the number of known associations with the disease. The study also detailed key pathways involved in lung cancer and described patterns of genetic mutations among different subgroups of patients.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalNature·DateOct 22, 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.

Gene mutation in worms key to alcohol tolerance

Researchers discovered that a naturally occurring gene mutation in worms leads to reduced sensitivity to alcohol's effects, enabling the body to consume more without adverse reactions. The study suggests potential applications in identifying individuals with a predisposition to alcoholism.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalMolecular Biology of the Cell·DateOct 22, 2008

How eating fruit and vegetables can improve cancer patients' response to chemotherapy

A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that apigenin, a naturally occurring compound in fruits and vegetables, improves cancer cells' response to chemotherapy. By localizing tumor suppressor p53 in the cell nucleus, apigenin facilitates cell death and stops tumor growth.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 22, 2008

Yale journal finds nanomaterials may have large environmental footprint

New research suggests that the process of manufacturing nanomaterials can offset their environmental benefits, with some studies indicating life-cycle impacts 100 times greater than traditional materials. This challenges the assumption that nanomaterials will lead to reduced energy and resource use.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Industrial Ecology·DateOct 22, 2008

Silencing a protein could kill T-Cells, reverse leukemia

Scientists have discovered a way to silence a protein that helps leukemia cells survive by blocking its signals. The breakthrough could lead to more efficient treatments for the disease and potentially even reverse its effects.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 22, 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.

Reducing CEOs' option-based compensation decreases risky investments

A University of Missouri study found that decreasing stock options for CEOs after earnings restatements leads to fewer risky investments and improved operating performance. This reduction in compensation incentives helps firms avoid excessive risk-taking and achieve better bottom lines.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalThe Accounting Review·DateOct 22, 2008

NC State study shows limits of using 'war on terror' to promote government policies

A new NC State University study reveals that ordinary people can work together to oppose the government's definition of a crisis and show how its actions undermine their American way of life. The study shows that defined as patriotic, common-sense citizens, opponents built a more credible connection to a patriotic American ethos.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalSouthern Communication Journal·DateOct 22, 2008

Google grant to researchers aims at climate-connected disease

A $900,000 Google grant will aid the International Research Institute for Climate and Society in predicting disease outbreaks in Ethiopia, a high-risk area for malaria and meningitis. The project aims to develop disease-mapping tools using climate data and improve early-warning systems.

SourceColumbia Climate School·DateOct 22, 2008