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Science News for September 15, 2008


Migraine linked to blood clots in veins

A recent study by the American Academy of Neurology found that people with migraines are more likely to develop venous thrombosis or blood clots in their veins. The research, which involved 574 participants in Italy, revealed a significant association between migraine and increased risk of blood clots.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateSep 15, 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.

An 'HIV-test' equivalent for the early detection of lung cancer

A new blood test uses immune system signals to detect early signs of lung cancer, signaling the disease before symptoms appear. The test has a sensitivity rate of 51% and specificity rate of 18%, indicating its potential for improving early detection of lung cancer.

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateSep 15, 2008

New data on melanoma treatment

A genetic variant in the cyclin D1 gene is associated with a higher risk of developing melanoma. Individuals carrying two copies of the variant are 80% more likely to develop the disease. Extended and escalated dose chemotherapy shows no survival benefit in advanced melanoma cases.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateSep 15, 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.

Cold and lonely: Does social exclusion literally feel cold?

Researchers Chen-Bo Zhong and Geoffrey Leonardelli found that socially excluded individuals experience a physical feeling of coldness, which is linked to their preference for warm food and drinks. This study suggests that warm chicken soup may be a literal coping mechanism for social isolation.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateSep 15, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Embryonic stem cells might help reduce transplantation rejection

Researchers found that immune-defense cells influenced by embryonic stem cell-derived cells can prevent transplant rejection in mice. The study's results suggest a potential method for reducing the need for immunosuppressive drugs in human organ and bone marrow transplants.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 15, 2008

Help for shopaholics: New test determines who's at risk for compulsive buying

A new scale identifies consumers with a strong urge to buy, regular spending habits, and difficulty resisting impulse purchases. The study found approximately 8.9% of the population are compulsive shoppers, linked to materialism, reduced self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and stress.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateSep 15, 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.

Genetic profile reveals susceptibility to cleft palate

Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine have identified a series of genetic mutations associated with significant risk for cleft palate and other dental abnormalities. The study, published in Genetics in Medicine, analyzed DNA sequences from over 500 individuals and found more than a dozen gene mutations...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalGenetics in Medicine·DateSep 15, 2008

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for Sept. 16, 2008, issue

The American College of Physicians released a new clinical practice guideline recommending drug treatment for men and women with osteoporosis or low bone density. In addition, massage therapy may have an immediate positive effect on pain and mood for advanced cancer patients, according to a study from the National Institutes of Health.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 15, 2008

Cyanobacterium sequenced features rare linear chromosome

Researchers sequenced the genome of Cyanobacterium ATCC 51142, revealing a rare linear chromosome containing genes for pyruvate metabolism. The discovery provides a framework for understanding this organism's ability to produce lactate and other compounds.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 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.

Common bronchodilator linked to increased deaths

A new study from Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine found that ipratropium increases the risk of heart attack or arrhythmia by 34% compared to albuterol or no treatment. The study suggests that the medication may have a systemic cardiovascular effect, increasing mortality risk in COPD patients.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 15, 2008

$10M clinical trial tests new treatment for blood clots in the leg

A new $10 million clinical trial is testing a treatment that can chew up deep vein thrombosis (DVT) clots and administer clot-busting drugs, with the goal of preventing long-term complications like post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). The trial aims to provide a safer, quicker and more effective approach to treatment.

SourceWashU Medicine·DateSep 15, 2008

MRI reveals inner ear anomalies in children with hearing loss

Using MRI, researchers identified soft tissue defects contributing to hearing loss in children, affecting thousands of kids per year. The study found abnormalities in the cochlea and auditory nerve in 40% of ears with sensorineural hearing loss.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateSep 15, 2008

The language of luxury: Advertisers' language choices evoke different reactions

A new study reveals that multinational companies should advertise luxury goods in English, while necessities may be more effective in local languages. Multinational corporations marketing to bilingual populations must pay attention to language choices, as perceptions of ads change significantly with different languages.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateSep 15, 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.

Impulsive eater? Remembering failures may help curb eating

A new study suggests that remembering past instances of resisting temptation can help impulsive eaters make healthier choices. By reflecting on their previous successes and failures, individuals with self-control difficulties can improve their ability to resist fatty or tempting foods.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateSep 15, 2008

Biologists identify genes controlling rhythmic plant growth

Researchers identified genes controlling rhythmic plant growth, enabling bursts of growth at night and increasing competitiveness in shaded environments. These findings could lead to designing crops that grow faster and produce more food than current varieties.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPLOS Biology·DateSep 15, 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.

Sun-damaged skin does not improve with estrogen treatments

Research from Michigan Medicine found that estrogen treatments stimulate collagen production in non-sun damaged skin, but have no effect on sun-damaged skin. The study suggests it's difficult to repair photoaged skin due to altered skin response to topical estrogen treatment.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateSep 15, 2008

Study reveals how viruses collectively decide the fate of a bacterial cell

Researchers found that multiple viral genomes can increase overall viral gene expression, leading to a nonlinear effect on gene networks controlling cell fate. This can result in the host cell entering a latent state rather than immediately being killed by the virus.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology Research News·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateSep 15, 2008
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.

Seize the day! New research helps tightwads 'live a little'

A new study reveals that hyperopic consumers are not necessarily self-controlled, and instead focus on the future at the expense of present-day experiences. Researchers found that high-hyperopia individuals perceive more products as luxuries, but are less likely to see luxury goods as long-term investments.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateSep 15, 2008

Consumers think differently about close and distant purchases

A study found that consumers evaluate purchases differently depending on the proximity of time and people involved. When making near-term or personal purchases, convenience and low-level construal are key considerations, whereas future or distant purchases rely on higher-level attributes like attractiveness.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateSep 15, 2008

Herpes drug inhibits HIV in patients infected with both viruses

Researchers have discovered that the antiviral drug acyclovir can suppress HIV in patients infected with both herpes and HIV. Acyclovir works by targeting the unique enzyme present in herpes virus HHV-6, converting it into a compound capable of attacking HIV directly.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateSep 15, 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.

Newer antipsychotics no better than older drug in treating child and adolescent schizophrenia

A new study found that newer atypical antipsychotic medications were not more effective than an older conventional antipsychotic in treating child and adolescent schizophrenia. The study also revealed potential metabolic side effects, particularly with olanzapine, which may lead to serious health issues.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateSep 15, 2008

'Biological clock' genes control plant growth

Researchers at Oregon State University have identified the biological clock genes responsible for plant growth spurts, which occur at night. The study uses DNA microarrays and bioinformatics to analyze thousands of genes in a short period, revealing that most plant genes are expressed only at a particular time of day.

SourceOregon State University·JournalPublication Library and Information Science·DateSep 15, 2008

Key protein molecule linked to diverse human chronic inflammatory diseases

Research reveals a common connection between cellular innate immunity and human chronic inflammatory diseases, including atherosclerosis, Type 2 Diabetes, and neurodegenerative diseases. A critical signaling network involving IRAK-1 has been identified as a potential target for diagnosis and treatment.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalMolecular Immunology·DateSep 15, 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.

Don't throw the candy out: Temptation leads to moderation

New research in the Journal of Consumer Research found that presenting tempting foods in a real setting can improve self-control and lead to moderation, contradicting the idea of banning or avoiding temptation altogether.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateSep 15, 2008

Old and new therapies combine to tackle atherosclerosis

Researchers have developed a dual treatment combining nanoparticles with a statin to stop the growth of blood vessels feeding arterial plaques. The treatment reduces plaque activity and prolongs stability in high-risk patients, offering hope for human clinical trials.

SourceWashU Medicine·DateSep 15, 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.

Wistar researchers invigorate 'exhausted' immune cells

Researchers at The Wistar Institute have found a way to restore vigor to exhausted killer T cells by blocking the programmed death-1 (PD-1) receptor. This breakthrough may lead to new therapies for diseases such as HIV, hepatitis B and C, and cancer.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 2008

LSUHSC awarded grant to address nursing shortage

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation granted LSUHSC's CARE Program $100,000 to support ten scholarships. The program aims to address the nursing shortage by enabling hundreds of students to launch their nursing careers through accelerated education. 81 students are presently enrolled in the program.

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·DateSep 15, 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.

New method identifies meth hot spots

A new study identified five counties in Oregon with the most meth-linked incidents per capita, including sparsely populated Umatilla County. The analysis found that every lab or dump site was 11.5 times more likely to be in Umatilla County than anywhere else in the state.

SourceOregon State University·DateSep 15, 2008

Immigrant Sun: Our star could be far from where it started in Milky Way

New simulations suggest that stars like our sun can migrate great distances in galaxies similar to the Milky Way, potentially altering our view of habitable zones. This finding could change scientists' understanding of where and how life could evolve in a galaxy.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateSep 15, 2008

Study opens way for later treatment of acute stroke

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have found that thrombolysis can be safely administered up to four and a half hours after an ischemic stroke, without significantly increasing the risk of hemorrhage complications or death. This extends the time window for treatment, potentially benefiting more patients.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 15, 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.

Fantastic photographs of fluorescent fish

Research published in BMC Ecology reveals at least 32 reef fish species exhibiting red fluorescence, a previously unknown signaling mechanism. The authors speculate that this phenomenon may serve as a private communication system among fish, allowing for attraction and presence detection.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Ecology·DateSep 15, 2008

New ant species discovered in the Amazon likely represents oldest living lineage of ants

A new species of blind, subterranean ant, Martialis heureka, has been discovered in the Amazon rainforest and is believed to be a descendant of the first ants to evolve. The ant's unique characteristics, including lack of eyes and pale body color, suggest that it may have evolved adaptations over time to its subterranean habitat.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 2008

Water purification down the nanotubes

Researchers propose using carbon nanotubes to replace conventional materials in water-purification systems due to their unique chemical properties. The technology could efficiently remove arsenic, fluoride, heavy metals and toxic organic chemicals from contaminated water.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Nuclear Desalination·DateSep 15, 2008

NASA selects CU-Boulder to lead $485M Mars mission

CU-Boulder's Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics has been selected by NASA to lead the $485 million Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution mission. The MAVEN spacecraft will study Mars' upper atmosphere, solar wind, and ionosphere to determine its past climate and potential life.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateSep 15, 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.

Investigational drug shows promise in ovarian cancer

A phase II trial of the investigational drug pazopanib has shown promising results in treating ovarian cancer. The study found that 31% of patients experienced a significant decrease in CA-125 levels, with a median duration of response of 113 days.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateSep 15, 2008

Biological selenium removal: The solution to pollution?

Researchers explore 'dissimilatory metal reduction' to convert selenate into less-toxic elemental selenium, with potential for recovery and reuse. The process is efficient but requires careful temperature control to minimize formation of ecotoxicological risks.

SourceSoil Science Society of America·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateSep 15, 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.

More findings on gene involved in childhood asthma

Researchers have identified a gene variant associated with childhood asthma in European children, and also found it plays a role in asthma of any severity level among white American children. Further studies are needed to determine if other genes outside the region occupy by ORMDL3 contribute to asthma susceptibility.

SourceChildren's Hospital of Philadelphia·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateSep 15, 2008

No helicopter moms among Rutgers mutant mice

Rutgers geneticist Gleb Shumyatsky discovered a link between the stathmin gene and helicopter mom behavior in mice. Mice lacking this gene took longer to retrieve pups and showed less cautious behavior towards peers, revealing the importance of innate fear in species survival.

SourceRutgers University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 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.

Photosynthesizing bacteria with a day-night cycle contain rare chromosome

Scientists have found a novel linear chromosome in cyanobacterium Cyanothece 51142, containing genes important for producing biofuels. The discovery was made possible by simultaneous DNA sequencing and protein analysis, which revealed more genes on the linear and circular chromosomes than previously thought.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 2008

Topical use of estradiol may stimulate collagen production in aging skin

Topical estradiol application stimulates collagen production in sun-protected skin of older men and women, but not in sun-exposed areas like the face or arms. This study found that natural aging and photo-aging share biochemical features, including a reduction in collagen, which is essential for maintaining skin's inner layer structure.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateSep 15, 2008

Blissfully ignorant: Skip those pesky details

Researchers found that people who are presented with vague information after making a decision tend to feel more optimistic about their choice. In three studies, participants were shown to be more optimistic when given incomplete nutritional information or sketchy reviews on products like chocolates and hand lotions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateSep 15, 2008

European disparities in access to cancer drugs

A study by the European Society for Medical Oncology found substantial variation in the uptake of newer cancer drugs across EU countries. The cost of these drugs is a major barrier to access, and their complexity can make them harder to understand and use effectively.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateSep 15, 2008

New tool to speed cancer therapy approval available

A new set of tools, 'Pathways to Clinical Goals,' aims to improve the translational research process, accelerating cancer therapy approval. The six pathways address various categories, including anti-cancer agents and lifestyle alterations, to clarify and streamline the research process.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateSep 15, 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.

Pegylated liposomal doxorubicin beneficial in metastatic breast cancer

Research reveals pegylated liposomal doxorubicin delays disease progression while minimizing toxicity, with a low risk of serious side effects such as cardiotoxicity or mucositis. The treatment improves time-to-progression and overall survival in metastatic breast cancer patients.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateSep 15, 2008

Music, CompuMaestro -- like Radiohead, please ...

Researchers at USC created an AI system called ASSA that can generate harmonious musical accompaniment in the style of a chosen artist. The system uses machine learning techniques to analyze melodic and harmonic patterns, allowing users to input their desired melody and receive an accompanying chord progression.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateSep 15, 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.

Taking back-to-school to heart

Children born with a congenital heart malformation are at risk for developmental delays. The study found that these children have average or low IQs and experience behavior problems leading to challenges in social development.

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateSep 15, 2008

Promising new treatment option for women with recurrent ovarian cancer

A new combination therapy of trabectedin and pegylated liposomal doxorubicin shows clinical benefit for women with relapsed ovarian cancer. The treatment offers an alternative to traditional platinum-based regimens, providing a fresh option for those whose cancer recurs after first-line treatment.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateSep 15, 2008
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

First generation antipsychotic drugs as effective as newer ones in some children

A study from UNC School of Medicine suggests molindone, a first-generation antipsychotic, is as effective as newer drugs like olanzapine and risperidone in treating childhood schizophrenia. The medication may offer benefits due to fewer side effects, including weight gain and increased risk of heart disease.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateSep 15, 2008

Ovarian cancer drug trial reveals promising new treatment

A phase III clinical trial led by UC Irvine's Dr. Bradley Monk found trabectedin to be effective in stopping ovarian cancer cell growth, with a median progression-free time of 9.2 months for those treated with the combination therapy. The treatment has hope for improved treatment of this deadly disease.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateSep 15, 2008

Avoid coupon redeemers: Their stigma is contagious (unless they're attractive)

A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research demonstrates that coupon users face stigma and their proximity affects others' perceptions. Standing near a coupon user can lead to negative opinions about one's character, especially if the individuals are similar or know each other well.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateSep 15, 2008

What was I doing? Interruptions can change purchase decisions

A new study finds that brief interruptions can alter purchasing decisions, causing a shift from detail-oriented, price-conscious thinking to goal-oriented, price-insensitive consideration. Participants who were interrupted in decision-making processes prioritized qualities like satisfaction and desirability over feasibility and price.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateSep 15, 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.

2 beta blockers found to also protect heart tissue

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered that two common beta-blockers can stimulate a pathway that promotes cell survival and protects heart tissue. The study finds that alprenolol and carvedilol may have greater potential to repair the heart and prevent further damage.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 15, 2008

New synthetic form of protein holds promise to stop cancer spread

Researchers at the Medical College of Wisconsin have developed a new synthetic form of the CXCL12 protein, which shows promise in inhibiting cancer cell migration and potentially stopping its spread. The discovery was made using a proprietary method to improve the detection of metastatic cancers.

SourceMedical College of Wisconsin·JournalScience Signaling·DateSep 15, 2008

Laminin builds the neuromuscular synapse

A new study reveals that laminin influences post-synaptic patterning by corraling cell surface receptors on the muscle side of the synapse. Maturation of the muscle side was slowed in mice lacking specific laminin chains, highlighting the protein's role in coordinating nerve and muscle fiber development.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateSep 15, 2008

Unusual case of a woman who suffered stroke during sex

A 35-year-old woman suffered a stroke due to a blood clot caused by a heart defect and birth control pills. She received an interventional neuroradiologist-guided catheter delivery of tPA, resulting in immediate and dramatic improvement. Her stroke score improved from 13 to 1 after treatment.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalJournal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases·DateSep 15, 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.

FEMA awards grant to study New Madrid seismic zone

Researchers Theresa Jefferson and John Harrald will study social vulnerability in response to an earthquake involving the New Madrid fault. The grant from FEMA enables them to focus on displaced persons, shelter needs, commodity requirements, and special needs in Phase III of the Mid America Earthquake Center research agenda.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateSep 15, 2008