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Science News for April 30, 2009


Study validates means to measure possible leukemia marker

Researchers at Ohio State University validated a method to measure variations in histones, promising biomarkers for chronic leukemia diagnosis and treatment response. The study accurately detected differences in histone composition between CLL cells and healthy B lymphocytes.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalPROTEOMICS·DateApr 30, 2009

Genetic variant impairs communication within the brain

Researchers have identified a genetic variant that impairs communication within the brain, increasing the risk of schizophrenia and manic depression. The study found altered brain activity patterns, particularly between the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and other regions.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalScience·DateApr 30, 2009

Smart Charger Controller simplifies electric vehicle recharging

The Smart Charger Controller automatically recharges electric vehicles during times of least cost to the consumer and lower demand for power. Widespread use of these devices could help advance a smart power grid and reduce the nation's dependency on oil.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateApr 30, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researcher: Lasers used to detect melamine in baby formula

Lisa Mauer, a Purdue University researcher, has developed an inexpensive and rapid method for detecting melamine in infant formula using infrared lasers and light spectroscopy. The technique can identify trace amounts of melamine at one part per million, significantly reducing the risk of contamination.

SourcePurdue University·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateApr 30, 2009

Stanford scientists turn adult skin cells into muscle and vice versa

Researchers successfully transform human skin cells into mouse muscle cells and vice versa, providing insight into cell specialization and potentially bypassing stem cells. This breakthrough may lead to novel treatments for diseases by directly generating necessary cells.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateApr 30, 2009
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.

Gene test determines risk of heart surgery complications

Researchers discovered a genetic variant that can predict patients' risk of developing shock and kidney failure after heart surgery. Patients with the 'LL' gene variant are more likely to experience these complications and may not respond well to standard treatments, highlighting the potential benefits of personalized medicine.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 30, 2009

NASA study says climate adds fuel to Asian wildfire emissions

A NASA study estimates that climate change fuels Asian wildfires, increasing carbon dioxide emissions by a factor of 10 during dry El Niño years. The research used satellite data and computer models to analyze the impact of drought on fire spread and intensity in regions like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 30, 2009
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Women with arthritis more likely than men to stop working

A new study found that women with arthritis are more likely to leave the workforce, while men may be more likely to remain working and report negative experiences. The study analyzed data from over 9,000 individuals aged 25-64 and found that greater education was associated with being in the labor force for both men and women.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateApr 30, 2009

Management of asthma during pregnancy can optimize health of mother and baby

Research suggests that women with actively managed asthma are as likely to have healthy pregnancies and babies as those without asthma. The study recommends comprehensive approach to management and treatment of asthma during pregnancy, including assessment, medication management, and patient education.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 30, 2009

Synthetic chemical offers solution for crops facing drought

A new synthetic chemical, pyrabactin, has been identified as a potential solution for crops facing drought. The compound activates the ABA signaling pathway, helping plants survive in water-scarce conditions. Researchers at UC Riverside have developed a stable and easy-to-make chemical strategy to improve plant resilience.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScience·DateApr 30, 2009

Fertilization intensifies competition for light and endangers plant diversity

Fertilizing grasslands increases productivity but decreases plant diversity by intensifying competition for light, allowing faster-growing species to outcompete others. Artificially added light can counteract these effects, suggesting that controlling nutrient enrichment is crucial for conserving biodiversity in managed grasslands.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalScience·DateApr 30, 2009
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.

Research finds photos more useful than words

Patients with very mild Alzheimer's disease can rely on implicit memory processes to support successful recognition of pictures, but struggle with word-based recall. Researchers hope to develop strategies that leverage implicit memory to improve learning and independence in patients with AD.

SourceBoston University·JournalNeuropsychologia·DateApr 30, 2009

MESSENGER discovers an unusual impact basin on Mercury

Scientists have discovered a previously unknown, massive impact basin named Rembrandt on Mercury's surface. The 700-kilometer-wide basin is younger than most other known impact basins and features unique tectonic landforms that formed after volcanic flows filled it.

SourceSmithsonian·JournalScience·DateApr 30, 2009

Adding steroid drug to MS treatment may reduce disease activity

A new study suggests that adding a steroid drug to multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment can significantly reduce disease activity. Researchers found that participants who received both the steroid and interferon beta-1a had 38% fewer relapses than those receiving only the interferon drug.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateApr 30, 2009
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.

Hopkins Children's study: Folic acid may help treat allergies, asthma

A study of over 8,000 people found that higher blood levels of folic acid were associated with fewer reported allergies, less wheezing, and a lower likelihood of asthma. The researchers recommend further studies to confirm their results and establish safe doses.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateApr 30, 2009

Cancer-causing virus associated with higher risk of new HIV infection

Researchers at UCSF found that anal human papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with a higher risk of new HIV infection in previously HIV-negative men who have sex with men. The study suggests that HPV enhances susceptibility to HIV infection through anatomical and immunological mechanisms.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAIDS·DateApr 30, 2009
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.

The story of ancient Persia gets digitized

The Oriental Institute at the University of Chicago is using modern technology to digitally record thousands of ancient Persian Empire tablets. The project, supported by a substantial grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, aims to record about 10,000 tablets and fragments by 2010.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·DateApr 30, 2009

Decrease in sense of smell seen in lupus patients

A study found that systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients have significant olfactory deficits compared to healthy controls. Patients with more active disease and past neuropsychiatric SLE manifestations had lower total TDI scores, suggesting an immune-mediated mechanism.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateApr 30, 2009

Cetuximab slightly increases overall survival in lung cancer patients

A phase III study found that adding cetuximab to standard chemotherapy for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) extends survival by almost one month compared to chemotherapy alone. The treatment has been shown to target epidermal growth factor receptor, which plays a key role in tumour growth.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 30, 2009

Synthesis with a template

Scientists have successfully synthesized a soccer-ball-shaped molecule made of 60 carbon atoms, dubbed the C80 fullerene. The researchers used pentaphosphaferrocene and copper chloride as building blocks and a carborane template to form the spherical supermolecule.

SourceWiley·DateApr 30, 2009
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.

Caring for stroke survivors sometimes stressful, but also rewarding

A study of 75 stroke caregivers found that while caregiving can be stressful, many families report personal benefits and rewards. Caregivers reported increased appreciation for life, feeling needed, and developing a more positive attitude towards life, with only 44% reporting no strain.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateApr 30, 2009

Genome Research publishes special issue: Genomics and Darwinism

The special issue of Genome Research celebrates Charles Darwin's birthday and the publication of On the Origin of Species. Researchers investigate human adaptation and evolution on a genome-wide scale, describing novel fine-scale genetic structure within and between populations worldwide.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenome Research·DateApr 30, 2009

Report shows US wildlife trade poorly regulated

A recent study by Brown University and the Wildlife Trust found that US wildlife imports are fragmented and insufficiently coordinated, failing to accurately list over four in five species entering the country. This lack of regulation poses significant risks to human health, food supply chains, and ecosystems.

SourceBrown University·JournalScience·DateApr 30, 2009

Computer hackers R.I.P. -- making quantum cryptography practical

Researchers have developed high-speed detectors capable of receiving more information at a higher key rate, making quantum cryptography more user-friendly. This breakthrough enables the transmission of theoretically secure communication over long distances.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNew Journal of Physics·DateApr 30, 2009

Brain protein central to both Parkinson's, drug addiction identified

Researchers discover organic cation transporter 3 (oct3) plays a critical role in both Parkinson's disease and drug addiction by transporting toxic chemicals into brain cells that die in patients with the condition. Oct3 helps astrocytes remove excess dopamine, leading to feelings of euphoria but also potential brain damage.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 30, 2009
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.

Ancestor of HIV in primates may be surprisingly young

Researchers estimated virus evolution using genetic sequences and found that SIV lineages giving rise to HIV-1 and HIV-2 date back to the 18th century. This finding challenges previous estimates of millions of years of coevolution between SIVs and their primate hosts.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·DateApr 30, 2009

Research finds perceived warmth, 'babyfaceness' positive characteristics for black CEOs

A study by Kellogg School researchers examines how physical characteristics, particularly 'babyfaced' traits, influence perception and achievement among black CEOs. They found that those with more babyface features were perceived as warmer, more competent, and earned higher salaries and led more prestigious companies.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateApr 30, 2009

Chlamydia may play role in a type of arthritis

Researchers found that 62% of patients with chronic uSpA had Chlamydia infection, significantly higher than controls. This suggests Chlamydia may play a role in causing this type of arthritis.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateApr 30, 2009

Simultaneous transplant gives best results in diabetics with kidney disease

A study of nearly 6,900 patients found that simultaneous pancreas-kidney (SPK) transplantation resulted in a 89% long-term survival rate compared to 80% for kidney-only transplants and 65% for deceased donor transplants. SPK recipients were also more likely to die during the first year after transplantation.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalClinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 30, 2009
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.

The shocking state of UK stroke care: A medical emergency

A recent report by the Royal College of Physicians found that up to a quarter of stroke patients do not receive optimal treatment in specialist units. The editorial advocates for increased public awareness and priority for stroke care, citing the importance of rapid recognition and admission to acute units.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 30, 2009

Low vitamin D causes problems for acutely ill patients

A study of ICU patients found that 45% were deficient in vitamin D, with lower levels associated with greater disease severity. Researchers believe that vitamin D deficiency may contribute to disease complications and suggest that raising vitamin D levels may be beneficial for critically ill patients.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateApr 30, 2009
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.

Methylprednisolone added to interferon beta reduces relapse rate

A new study found that adding oral methylprednisolone to interferon beta-1a therapy significantly reduces the relapse rate in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. The treatment was associated with a threefold lower relapse rate compared to placebo.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet Neurology·DateApr 30, 2009

Atomic physics study sets new limits on hypothetical new particles

Researchers from University of Nevada, Reno set new constraints on extra Z-boson particle, a carrier of the fifth force of nature. The team achieved high-precision analysis of atomic parity violation in cesium atoms, outperforming previous experiments with increased computational complexity.

SourceUniversity of Nevada, Reno·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 30, 2009

Popular diabetes treatment could trigger pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer

A new study suggests that the widely used diabetes medication Januvia may cause pancreatitis and increase the risk of pancreatic cancer in some patients. Researchers found that combining Januvia with the older diabetes drug metformin helped mitigate these effects, suggesting a potential way to safely use GLP-1 class drugs.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalDiabetes·DateApr 30, 2009

Recycler protein helps prevent disease

A team of researchers has uncovered the first step in the recycling of a crucial molecular tag that ensures correct gene expression. This mechanism, called nonsense-mediated decay (NMD), helps protect against genetic diseases such as thalassaemia and Duchenne's muscular dystrophy.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalCell·DateApr 30, 2009
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.

Just in time for spring: Scientists find the cellular on and off switch for allergies and asthma

Researchers identified a previously unknown cellular switch that regulates both allergic and asthmatic responses in the body. This discovery suggests that at least some people with asthma and allergies have genes that prevent this switch from working properly, leading to medication development targets.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateApr 30, 2009

Gene test determines risk of heart surgery complications

A gene test can help predict patients' risk of shock and kidney failure after heart surgery by identifying genetic differences in the COMT enzyme. This knowledge can guide treatment to prevent complications.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 30, 2009

Cancer patient mortality increased by anemia treatments

A meta-analysis of 53 cancer trials found that erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) increased mortality in all patients with cancer by 17%. The treatment's benefits must be weighed against the increased risks of death and thromboembolic events.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateApr 30, 2009

New technology shows promise against resistant staph infections

Scientists have developed nanoparticles that release nitric oxide to combat drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus skin infections, improving wound healing and reducing bacterial counts. The therapy has shown promise in treating MRSA and other infections, with plans for clinical trials.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Investigative Dermatology·DateApr 30, 2009
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.

Study fuels debate about why female birds seek extra mates

A new study on blue tits reveals that eggs fertilized by non-social partners tend to hatch earlier, with nearly 75% of extra-pair offspring produced in the first half of the clutch. This suggests that early hatching may be a key factor in the observed superiority of extra-pair offspring.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 30, 2009

First 10-year follow-up shows that treatment with AVONEX leads to long-term benefits in early multiple sclerosis patients

A ten-year follow-up study of the CHAMPIONS trial shows that early treatment with AVONEX significantly reduces MS relapse rates and improves patient outcomes. Patients treated immediately after their first episode had a lower chance of experiencing a second attack, with 80% having an Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score less t...

SourceManning Selvage & Lee·DateApr 30, 2009
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.

Can kidney disease cause cancer?

A new study found that men with moderate kidney disease have a 39% increased risk of developing cancer compared to those with normal kidney function. The risk is highest for lung and urinary tract cancers, but not prostate cancer. Maintaining kidney function may help prevent cancer in the general population.

SourceAmerican Society of Nephrology·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·DateApr 30, 2009
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.

White tea -- the solution to the obesity epidemic?

Researchers have found that white tea extract effectively reduces the generation of new adipocytes and stimulates fat mobilization from mature fat cells. White tea, a less processed version of green tea, contains ingredients such as methylxanthines and epigallocatechin-3-gallate that may be responsible for its anti-adipogenic effects.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalNutrition and Metabolism·DateApr 30, 2009

Drugs to combat anemia in cancer patients increase risk of death

A new study found that drugs to combat anemia in cancer patients may actually increase the risk of death and serious blood clots. The use of these agents should not be routine therapy unless proven safe and clinically beneficial.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 30, 2009
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.

Computer use significantly affected by arthritis

A new study found that people with arthritis experience significant difficulties with computer use due to pain, restricted movement, and muscle weakness. The study suggests that providing individuals with arthritis with strategies and equipment can reduce work limitations and prevent disabilities.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateApr 30, 2009

Social separation stops flu spread, but must be started soon

Researchers found that combining workplace non-attendance, school closure, isolating infected family members, and reducing community contact can significantly reduce the rate of development and overall burden of influenza epidemics. Interventions must be introduced within 2 weeks of the first case to prevent an epidemic developing.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateApr 30, 2009

Gray matter under attack in multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis researchers discover that the immune system targets gray matter in addition to myelin, damaging nerve cell bodies and leading to irreversible destruction of axons. The newly identified protein Contactin-2 plays a critical role in this process.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 30, 2009

Southern glaciers grow out of step with North

A new study using cosmogenic dating reveals that New Zealand's largest glaciers moved out of step with their northern hemisphere counterparts for the past 7,000 years. The research provides a glacial timeline and shows regional climate variations in both hemispheres.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalScience·DateApr 30, 2009

New noninvasive liver fibrosis index reduces need for biopsies in children

A new non-invasive diagnostic index, the Pediatric NAFLD Fibrosis Index (PNFI), uses age, waist circumference, and triglycerides to predict liver fibrosis in children with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This index may help reduce the need for invasive biopsies, improving patient comfort and outcomes.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateApr 30, 2009
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.

XBox forensics

US researchers have developed a forensics toolkit for the Xbox console that enables investigators to access and analyze hidden data. The XFT utility allows users to mount an image of the FATX file system, explore directory structures, and view files in detail.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Electronic Security and Digital Forensics·DateApr 30, 2009