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Science News for September 18, 2008


Political attitudes are predicted by physiological traits

Researchers found that individuals with lower physical sensitivities to sudden noises and threatening images tend to support liberal policies, while those with higher physiological reactions favor conservative policies. This discovery may help explain the stability of strong convictions and the prevalence of political conflict.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·DateSep 18, 2008

Virtual colonoscopy as good as other colon cancer screening methods

A nationwide study confirms virtual colonoscopy's accuracy in detecting colorectal cancers and pre-cancerous polyps as high as traditional colonoscopy. This minimally invasive procedure has been endorsed by the American Cancer Society, offering a safe and non-invasive screening option for millions of Americans.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateSep 18, 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.

Asthma: still more questions than answers

Research has identified distinct pathogenic phenotypes, or endotypes, of asthma that can lead to improved classification and targeted treatment efforts. Additionally, studies have shown associations between paracetamol use in infancy, gene-environment interactions, and the risk of developing inflammatory airway disease.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 18, 2008

Prestigious nuclear medicine publication offers open online access

The Journal of Nuclear Medicine is now free and open to the public six months after publication, accelerating access to new research and advancing understanding of nuclear medicine and molecular imaging. This move reflects the journal's exceptional quality and influence as an academic and professional resource.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateSep 18, 2008

Iowa State study finds mom's beliefs may impact their kids' alcohol use

A new Iowa State University study found that mothers' self-fulfilling effects on their children's alcohol use are rooted in the power of positive thinking and self-verification theory. The research suggests that if moms help their teens develop a positive self-view, it can limit their chances of using alcohol.

SourceIowa State University·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateSep 18, 2008

JCI table of contents: Sept. 18, 2008

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that a maternal diet rich in methyl donors increases the development and severity of asthma in mice. The study also identified specific genes modified by methylation as likely underlying causes of the increased disease severity.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 18, 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.

Scientists identify the genes that cause blindness produced by corneal edema

Researchers at the University of Granada have identified the genes responsible for corneal edema-induced blindness. The study revealed that altered ion concentration in endothelial cells leads to barrier dysfunction and oedema. New treatments, including gene therapy, may soon be available to address this condition.

SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalExperimental Eye Research·DateSep 18, 2008

Rhinitis, with or without allergies, is linked to adult-onset asthma

A large prospective study found that rhinitis is a powerful predictor of adult-onset asthma, with non-allergic and allergic rhinitis groups showing significant increased risks. The study suggests that treating allergic rhinitis may reduce the incidence of asthma, but more research is needed to confirm this.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 18, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists discover cancer-causing role of gene proteins

Researchers at the University of Toronto have discovered that two protein cousins, related to the p53 family, play a critical role in cancer development. The findings challenge traditional thinking and suggest a new branch of scientific inquiry into cancer development.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·DateSep 18, 2008

Breakthrough in spinal injury treatment

Researchers have discovered two types of astrocyte support cells generated from a common stem cell-like precursor cell, one effective at promoting nerve regeneration and the other causing neuropathic pain. The study offers a promising approach to repairing spinal cord injuries without inducing pain syndromes.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalJournal of Biology·DateSep 18, 2008

Maternal diet can increase development and severity of asthma in offspring

A study by John Hollingsworth at Duke University Medical Center found that a maternal diet rich in methyl donors can increase the development and severity of asthma in mice offspring. The researchers discovered that genes modified by methylation due to methyl donor exposure were likely responsible for this increased risk.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 18, 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.

New study offers solution to global fisheries collapse

A study finds that catch shares can reverse fisheries collapse, with nearly a third of open-access fisheries collapsing compared to half for those managed under catch share systems. Catch shares create incentives to protect fish populations and reduce bycatch, leading to better biological outcomes.

SourceSeaWeb·JournalScience·DateSep 18, 2008

GM crops protect neighbors from pests

A study published in Science reveals that genetically modified cotton (Bt cotton) reduces pest populations not only among the modified crops but also among nearby unmodified crops. This finding could offer promising ideas for controlling pests and maximizing crop yields in the future.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 18, 2008

IMPACTS: On the threshold of abrupt climate change

The IMPACTS program aims to understand possible mechanisms of abrupt climate change and build comprehensive computer models. Researchers focus on four types of ACC: marine ice sheet instability, positive feedback mechanisms in subarctic forests, methane hydrates destabilization, and biosphere-atmosphere feedback leading to megadroughts.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateSep 18, 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.

Minimally invasive aortic valve bypass benefits high-risk elderly patients

Researchers at the University of Maryland Medical Center developed a minimally invasive procedure to bypass narrowed aortic valves in high-risk elderly patients. The study showed that this procedure can be performed safely without stopping the heart and offers effective treatment for those who were previously considered too frail for s...

SourceUniversity of Maryland Medical Center·JournalCirculation·DateSep 18, 2008

Plants in forest emit aspirin chemical to deal with stress; discovery may help agriculture

Researchers at the National Center for Atmospheric Research discovered that plants in a forest produce significant amounts of methyl salicylate, a chemical form of aspirin, in response to stress. This finding has the potential to give farmers an early warning signal about crops that are failing.

SourceNational Center for Atmospheric Research/University Corporation for Atmospheric Research·JournalBiogeosciences·DateSep 18, 2008

Expanding cell girth indicates seriousness of breast cancer

Researchers have created a rapid cell inspection technique that can identify metastatic breast cancer cells, which have compromised the cell's structure and compromise deformation. The technique uses an electrical field within a microscopic fluid-filled channel and has been shown to expand cells by 75% in metastatic cases.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateSep 18, 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.

Some political views may be related to physiology

Researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln found that people who react strongly to threatening visual images and sounds tend to support public policies protecting society over individual privacy. This study controlled for factors like gender, age, and income, suggesting a link between biology and political opinions.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalScience·DateSep 18, 2008

'Estrogen flooding our rivers,' Université de Montréal study

A study by Université de Montréal researchers found that Montreal's water treatment plants dump up to 90 times the critical amount of estrogen products into the river. The presence of these hormones can disrupt the endocrine system of fish and decrease their fertility, threatening aquatic ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalTalanta·DateSep 18, 2008

Strategies for preventing gastrointestinal complications in severely burned patients

A recent study reviewed clinical data from 219 patients with large area burns to propose guidelines for preventing gastrointestinal dysfunction. Comprehensive fluid resuscitation, early excision of necrotic tissue, staged food ingestion, and administration of specific nutrients were found to be essential strategies in lowering mortality.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateSep 18, 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.

St. Jude study gives new insights into how cells accessorize their proteins

Researchers have gained insight into how cells accessorize their proteins to regulate function, a process critical for life. By studying the attachment of NEDD8 to cullin-RING, scientists have found that it transforms the enzyme into an activated form that can attach ubiquitin to target proteins.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalCell·DateSep 18, 2008

Comet dust reveals unexpected mixing of solar system

Researchers analyzed oxygen isotope compositions of comet Wild 2's halo crystals, finding signatures similar to asteroids and the sun. This suggests heat-processed particles were transported outward in the young solar system, complicating theories on its early history.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience·DateSep 18, 2008

Hormone discovery points to benefits of 'home grown' fat

Researchers have discovered a lipid-based hormone, palmitoleate, that stimulates insulin's effects on muscle and suppresses fat accumulation in the liver. The hormone is produced when the body produces its own 'home grown' fat, defying traditional views that all extra fat is bad.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateSep 18, 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.

Serious disease in pet lizards caused by new bacteria

Researchers have discovered a new bacterium responsible for dermatitis and septicaemia in desert-dwelling lizards. The discovery could help control the disease and protect endangered species, particularly those bred in captivity for release into the wild.

SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SYSTEMATIC AND EVOLUTIONARY MICROBIOLOGY·DateSep 18, 2008

Natural childbirth linked to stronger baby bonding than C-sections

Researchers at Yale University found that natural childbirth is associated with stronger emotional connections between mothers and their babies. The study suggests that vaginal delivery may influence neurohormonal factors that contribute to parental bonding and postpartum depression.

SourceYale University·JournalJournal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry·DateSep 18, 2008

Study suggests why heart attack victims do better with social support

A study in mice found that socially isolated heart attack victims showed five to eight times more damage to neurons in one part of the brain than those that lived with others. Inflammation and increased stress hormone levels were also observed in isolated mice, contributing to the increased neuronal damage.

SourceOhio State University·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateSep 18, 2008

Researchers disclose key advance in treating spinal cord injuries

Scientists have made a breakthrough in treating spinal cord injuries by manipulating stem cells to promote nerve regeneration. The research focused on astrocytes and found two distinct sub-types with robustly different effects when transplanted into injured adult nervous systems, offering hope for victims of paralysis.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Biology·DateSep 18, 2008

BOSS: The Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey

The survey uses baryon acoustic oscillations to measure the expansion of the universe. It will double the volume of space in which red luminous galaxies are studied, observing 10,000 square degrees of sky out to redshifts of z = 0.7.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateSep 18, 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.

Statins block 1 cause of pregnancy loss in mice

Researchers found that two statins can block the molecular pathway causing pregnancy loss in mice with antiphospholipid syndrome. The study suggests statins could be a treatment option for women experiencing similar complications.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 18, 2008

New study: Overbearing parents foster obsessive children

A Université de Montréal study found that controlling parents foster an obsessive passion for hobbies in children, whereas supportive parents promote a harmonious relationship. The research, which analyzed 588 musicians and athletes, suggests that excessive parental involvement can hinder a child's autonomy and enjoyment of their favor...

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalJournal of Personality·DateSep 18, 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.

Heart bypass surgery: deadly delays

A new study reveals that delayed elective coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery significantly increases the risk of post-operative death. In contrast, performing CABG surgery within the recommended timeframe reduces the risk of death by approximately one-third.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Health Services Research·DateSep 18, 2008

Nanotechnology: A brave new world requires bold new research approaches

The US EPA awarded $38 million to two new research centers to investigate the potential risks of nanomaterials on the environment and human health. The centers, led by UCLA and Duke University, will use innovative approaches to develop predictive models and conduct experiments in outdoor laboratories.

SourceU.S. Environmental Protection Agency·DateSep 18, 2008

How to treat gastroesophageal adenocarcinom patients?

A study found that community-based use of treatment for US gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma varies depending on clinical and non-clinical factors. Chemotherapy and chemoradiation are associated with improved survival rates, while anatomic site differentiation is crucial for effective treatment.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateSep 18, 2008

Scientists discover a new Pacific iguana

Scientists have discovered a new Pacific iguana species in central Fiji, Brachylophus bulabula, which joins only two other living species. The study found that each of the 13 islands where living iguanas were sampled showed distinct genetic lines not seen elsewhere, highlighting the need for conservation efforts.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·DateSep 18, 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.

Programmed cell death contributes force to the movement of cells

Cells undergoing apoptosis exert substantial forces on surrounding cells, contributing to processes like wound formation and organ development. Apoptotic cells imploding and withdrawing create a force that aids in closing eye-shaped openings during embryonic development.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience·DateSep 18, 2008

Boston University astronomers en route to Mars

Boston University's John T. Clarke leads an engineering and astronomy team on NASA's MAVEN mission to study Martian atmosphere changes. The team aims to solve the mystery of Mars' lost atmosphere, exploring possibilities of water's escape or freezing into the planet's crust.

SourceBoston University·DateSep 18, 2008

Scientists find 'redesigned hammer' that forged evolution of pregnancy in mammals

Researchers at Yale University identified a key regulatory link in the evolution of pregnancy involving the altered function of HoxA-11 protein. This finding revolutionizes our understanding of how pregnancy evolved in mammals, highlighting a crucial genetic switch that tempered the immune system and allowed for internal development.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 18, 2008

The prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection in inflammatory bowel disease patients

Research reveals a high incidence of hepatitis B virus infection among IBD patients, with 17% positive for anti-HBc and 2.3% positive for HBsAg. Studies suggest immunosuppressive drugs used in IBD treatment worsen HBV liver disease, emphasizing the importance of lamivudine use and HBV vaccination for high-risk patients.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateSep 18, 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.

New Bluetooth system orients blind and sighted pedestrians

The Talking Points system uses Bluetooth signals to provide pedestrians with information about points of interest along their path, enhancing navigation for both blind and sighted individuals. The system also incorporates community-generated content through a website, allowing users to access reviews, specials, and sales.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateSep 18, 2008

Novel anti-cancer mechanism found in long-lived rodents

Researchers at the University of Rochester have found a previously unknown anti-cancer mechanism in small-bodied rodents with long lifespans. These cells are hypersensitive to surrounding tissue cues and can slow down cell division, potentially preventing tumor growth.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalAging Cell·DateSep 18, 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.

A breakthrough in contrast-enhanced intraoperative ultrasonography

Researchers have developed a new microbubble agent, Sonazoid, that enhances the sensitivity of contrast-enhanced intraoperative ultrasonography (CE-IOUS) for detecting occult liver lesions in patients with colorectal cancer. CE-IOUS using Sonazoid allows for longer imaging times and improved detection of metastases during hepatectomy.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateSep 18, 2008

Why chemo works for some people and not others

Researchers found a group of 48 genes that can predict susceptibility to toxic compound MNNG, leading to varying cell responses. The study appears in Genes and Development, providing new insights into how individuals respond to chemotherapy.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalGenes & Development·DateSep 18, 2008

Gastric cancer with 3 pathological features

A unique case of gastric cancer combined with adenocarcinoma, choriocarcinoma, and neuroendocrine cell carcinoma has been reported. The prognosis for this rare type of gastric cancer is poor, as seen in the case where the patient died due to hepatic failure.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateSep 18, 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.

New process derives 'green gasoline' from plant sugars

Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a process to convert plant sugars into gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. The new process produces identical molecular compounds to traditional petroleum-based fuels, offering a promising alternative to fossil fuels.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalScience·DateSep 18, 2008

New mechanism for cardiac arrhythmia discovered

Researchers have discovered a molecular mechanism underlying cardiac arrhythmia, revealing that a virus receptor plays a crucial role in regulating heart rhythm. The study found that the receptor is essential for normal heart function and its absence or dysfunction leads to arrhythmia.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateSep 18, 2008

As personalized, genomic medicine takes off, four developing countries show the way for others

Four developing countries are leading the way in establishing domestic capacity for genomic medicine, improving national health, reducing medical costs and bolstering economies. Mexico's program is the most comprehensive, with genotyped over 1,200 people to study genetic relationships with various health problems.

SourceSandra Rotman Centre for Global Health·JournalNature Reviews Genetics·DateSep 18, 2008

Pneumatosis cystoids intestinalis after fluorouracil chemotherapy

Fluorouracil-related pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis is a newly reported case. The mechanism of this condition is unclear but may be related to altered mucosal blood flow and bowel toxicity. Researchers highlight the need for clinicians to monitor patients for potential complications during fluorouracil chemotherapy.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateSep 18, 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.

Thin men more vulnerable to osteoporosis and bone fractures than other older men

Research from the Norwegian Institute of Public Health reveals that low weight among middle-aged men increases the risk of osteoporosis and fracture. Conversely, stable weight is recommended for optimal bone health. The study found that weight loss, rather than gain, was linked to increased osteoporosis risk.

SourceNorwegian Institute of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·DateSep 18, 2008

'Buckyballs' have high potential to accumulate in living tissue

Research at Purdue University suggests buckyballs can accumulate in animal tissue, particularly fatty tissues, with a greater chance than the banned pesticide DDT. However, their breakdown in the environment or by animals is not yet known.

SourcePurdue University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateSep 18, 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.