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Science News Archive February 2009


Page 18 of 24

JCI online early table of contents: Feb. 9, 2009

Research suggests mice without AT1A protein have a significantly prolonged lifespan. This is attributed to reduced cellular oxidation, contributing to aging. Additionally, studies investigate the role of MT1-MMP in regulating hematopoietic progenitor cells' release from bone marrow.

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.

Study proves that practice makes perfect in PCI for heart attack

New research published in JACC found that patients have a better chance of survival when both their hospital and physician have a strong track record in treating heart attacks with angioplasty and stenting. High-volume hospitals and physicians performed significantly better, with lower risks of in-hospital death.

Novel economical blood test for hepatitis C

A novel blood test for hepatitis C virus has been developed by researchers at Bonn University and the Bernhard-Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine. The test is significantly cheaper than existing commercial tests, while maintaining equal sensitivity, and can be used to monitor blood banks in poorer countries.

New test for breast cancer will help guide treatment choices

A new test can predict which women with breast cancer are likely to respond to chemotherapy and which type of chemotherapy will work best for them. The test, known as the Breast Bioclassifier, has been validated on thousands of women and can help doctors prescribe targeted treatments that may not require chemotherapy.

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.

The Hsp90-Antifungal Combo, please: Compromising fungi in the immunocompromised

Researchers at Whitehead Institute found that combining an antifungal agent with Hsp90 inhibition is effective against multiple types of resistant fungal infections. The treatment could lead to development of novel therapies for patients with compromised immune systems, who suffer high mortality rates from these infections.

Biologists find gene network that gave rise to first tooth

Researchers have found a common genetic circuit controlling the formation of teeth in both jaws and throats of vertebrates. This discovery suggests that a core set of genes governs tooth development, regardless of location, and may also be involved in other patterned structures like hair and feathers.

Carbon nanotube avalanche process nearly doubles current

Carbon nanotube researchers at University of Illinois demonstrate remarkable increase in current-carrying capacity using avalanche process. The process creates multiple electron-hole pairs, leading to rapid increases in current until the nanotube breaks down.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study suggests possible treatment for neurological disorder Rett syndrome

Scientists at Whitehead Institute and MIT's Picower Institute have successfully treated a mouse model of Rett syndrome with daily injections of an active fragment of IGF-1, significantly reducing movement and respiratory irregularities. The treatment promotes nerve cell maturation and increases brain levels of IGF-1.

Tailor-made recombinant proteins in mammals

Scientists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory create a novel technique to precisely modify recombinant proteins by introducing aldehyde tags. This breakthrough enables the labeling of therapeutic proteins in mammalian cells, paving the way for targeted treatments and improved pharmaceuticals.

A Zen discovery: Unrusted iron in ocean

A team of scientists has made a groundbreaking discovery that challenges the long-held assumption about oceanic iron cycles. They found that organic compounds can capture some iron spewed by hydrothermal vents, enabling it to be carried away in seawater and reaching the surface, where it can nourish marine life more efficiently.

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.

Growth factor protects key brain cells in Alzheimer's models

Researchers found that BDNF treatment can prevent or reverse memory loss, cognitive impairment, and brain cell degeneration in animal models of Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests a potential novel approach to treating the disease by slowing its progression.

Scientists discover key factor in controlling the breakdown of bone

A new study reveals that the chemical mediator sphingosine-1-phosphate plays a crucial role in maintaining bone balance. Researchers found that mice with functional S1P receptors had denser bones than those without, suggesting a potential target for treating bone-resorptive disorders.

Revolutionary microchip uses 30 times less power

Scientists have created a microchip that uses 30 times less electricity while running seven times faster than today's technology, thanks to probabilistic logic. This technology has significant implications for the IT industry's carbon footprint, potentially reducing energy consumption in devices such as cell phones and medical implants.

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.

Scientists deconstruct cell division

Researchers have identified two proteins, dynein and Nudel, as crucial for regulating the assembly of the spindle matrix during mitosis. This finding broadens our understanding of how cells control critical events during division. Understanding spindle assembly is essential to comprehend cell fate choices and development.

That gut feeling may actually reflect a reliable memory

A new Northwestern University study uses brain-reading technology to show that people can be more accurate in recognizing familiar images when distracted or guessing than when paying full attention. The research suggests that implicit recognition may play a significant role in everyday decision-making and problem-solving.

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.

Mama whales teach babies where to eat

Young southern right whales learn from their mothers where to feed in the ocean, but researchers worry they may not be able to adapt if food sources become scarce due to global warming.

Buying experiences, not possessions, leads to greater happiness

A psychology study finds that spending money on life experiences boosts well-being and satisfaction for both individuals and those around them. Experiences, such as meals out or theater tickets, satisfy higher-order needs like social connectedness and vitality, leading to longer-term happiness.

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.

Effects of smoking linked to accelerated aging protein

A University of Iowa study found that smoking decreases a key protein in lung cells, leading to cell aging and damage. The team suggests targeting Werner's syndrome protein for developing treatments for smoking-related diseases like emphysema.

Host shift triggers cascading effect on ecosystem, research finds

A study published in Science shows that when the apple maggot shifted hosts from hawthorn to European apples, it triggered a cascade of evolutionary changes in a parasitic wasp. The research reveals the process of speciation in action and sheds light on biodiversity's role in creating new species.

NOAA-N Prime environmental satellite successfully launched

The NOAA-N Prime spacecraft has been launched into space, improving weather forecasting and monitoring environmental events around the world. The satellite will collect vital data on the Earth's surface and atmosphere, supporting NOAA's weather forecasts and providing critical inputs for search and rescue operations.

NSF-funded workshops help young researchers teach science

Michigan State University's NSF-funded Faculty Institutes for Reforming Science Teaching will train 200 postdoctoral researchers to teach scientifically. The program aims to equip future college professors with skills for teaching science effectively, using inquiry-based learning and promoting scientific literacy.

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.

Long-sought protein structure may help reveal how 'gene switch' works

Researchers at NIST and Brookhaven National Laboratory have defined the structure of a metabolic switch found inside most types of bacteria, revealing how a key protein regulates genes involved in bacterial survival. The discovery could lead to new methods for preventing tuberculosis and other pathogenic diseases.

First North American antenna enables next phase in ALMA Observatory

The ALMA Observatory has accepted its first North American antenna, marking a significant milestone in the project. The 12-meter-diameter antenna was delivered by General Dynamics SATCOM Technologies and will enable astronomers to probe phenomena beyond the reach of visible-light telescopes with unprecedented sharpness.

It's the hard work that fosters responsibility in teen programs

A new study by Wake Forest University researchers found that teen programs most effectively promote responsibility when they assign difficult tasks, provide ownership, and hold teens accountable for their work. The study surveyed over 100 high schoolers participating in various summer and after-school programs.

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.

Do children understand how feelings affect school performance?

A new study found that children comprehend the link between feelings and performance, but only for negative emotions. Children of all ages understood how emotional states impact school performance, while younger children struggled to grasp the connection between positive emotions and improved performance.

Cracking a controversial solid state mystery

Scientists at the University of Nottingham and the University of California, Berkeley have provided evidence for a new kind of sudden transition between liquid and solid glass. This transformation occurs when molecules are viewed in both space and time, guiding towards methods for producing stronger and longer-lasting glass.

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.

Losing weight can cure obstructive sleep apnea in overweight patients

A new study shows that losing weight is the most effective way to reduce obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) symptoms and associated disorders. The study found that weight loss of more than 20 pounds resulted in markedly lower OSA symptoms and improvements in co-morbidities such as hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes.

OCRF and GCF fund new ovarian cancer symptoms study

The Ovarian Cancer Research Fund (OCRF) and the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation (GCF) have jointly funded a new study on ovarian cancer symptoms, aiming to develop a systematic screening process. Dr. Barbara Goff will lead the three-year study, which seeks to create a symptom index for early detection.

New guideline for prescribing opioid pain drugs published

The new guideline provides recommendations for clinicians on how to safely prescribe potent opioid pain medications for patients with chronic non-cancer pain. Key findings include the importance of careful patient selection, monitoring, and ongoing assessment to minimize risks of abuse and addiction.

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.

Accidental discovery has potential for new applications in packaging

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University discovered a nanotechnology-based technique to block damaging gas transport through polymers, making them stronger and more efficient. This breakthrough has potential applications in food and medicine packaging, as well as electronic equipment protection.

Wireless drug control

Researchers highlight potential security concerns for remote intelligent drug delivery systems, which could compromise patient safety. The team proposes implementing robust security mechanisms to mitigate hacking risks.

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.

Good news: Teenagers found willing to help their parents

A study by researchers at the University of Rochester and others found that teenagers feel relatively obligated to help their parents, even when requests clash with personal desires. Parents tend to think it's more acceptable for teens to say no in such situations, suggesting a balance between family needs and individual preferences.

Scientists can predict nano drug outcome

Researchers used contrast agents in liposomes to determine if they could breach breast tumors. Tumors with better images of the contrast agents showed better therapeutic results when treated with a cancer drug called liposomal doxorubicin.

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.