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Science News Archive June 2009 - Page 13


Page 13 of 26

Trans fats hinder multiple steps in blood flow regulation pathways

A new study reveals that trans fats interfere with the regulation of blood flow by hindering key enzymes and reducing prostacyclin production. This can lead to increased inflammation, high LDL cholesterol, and calcified arteries, ultimately contributing to atherosclerosis and heart disease.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAtherosclerosis·DateJun 16, 2009

Common fish species has 'human' ability to learn

A new study suggests that common fish species, such as the nine-spined stickleback, can compare behavior and make choices based on personal experience, leading to better food supplies. This sophisticated social learning capability, called 'hill-climbing', challenges the idea that big brains are necessary for cumulative culture.

SourceDurham University·JournalBehavioral Ecology·DateJun 16, 2009

Therapy helps improve outcomes for patients with severe sepsis

Researchers found that a novel therapy combining antibiotic-based hemoperfusion with conventional treatment significantly reduced mortality and improved blood circulation and organ function in patients with severe sepsis. The study's results suggest potential benefits for endotoxin-targeted therapy in septic shock.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateJun 16, 2009

Putting a name to a face may be key to brain's facial expertise

Researchers found that individuating novel objects with unique names enhances holistic processing, a hallmark of face-like expertise. This technique can be learned quickly and applied to other objects, indicating that expert-level recognition is not solely the result of extensive practice.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalPsychological Science·DateJun 16, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Good news for some hard-to-treat hepatitis C patients

A new combination therapy of daily consensus interferon and ribavirin has been found to be effective in some hepatitis C patients who have not responded to previous treatment. The study, led by a Saint Louis University researcher, showed a success rate of above 30 percent for patients with less severe liver damage.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalHepatology·DateJun 16, 2009

Depression may increase Alzheimer's risk in people with memory problems

A UCLA study reveals that depression may increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease in individuals with mild cognitive impairment. Researchers also found that the medication donepezil can delay the progression of Alzheimer's in depressed individuals with memory problems.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNeurology·DateJun 15, 2009

Rural tourists' profile analyzed

A study on rural tourists' profile in Spanish villages with limited inhabitants highlights the importance of emotional and cognitive aspects of travel. Key factors influencing traveler behavior include historical-cultural wealth, cleanliness, and welcome from local residents.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalTourism Management·DateJun 15, 2009

Sinus infections may be a factor in toxic shock syndrome in children

Researchers found that sinus infections are a primary cause of toxic shock syndrome in about one-fifth of cases in children. Children with both conditions had more severe symptoms and required intensive care, but prompt imaging studies can help diagnose the underlying infection.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateJun 15, 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.

New approach for treating recurrent prostate cancer on the horizon

Researchers have developed a novel form of treatment using an alpha-particle emitting radiopeptide that targets and destroys cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. The study found that this therapy was significantly more effective at tripling the survival rate of mice with recurrent prostate cancer compared to traditional treatments.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateJun 15, 2009

Psoriasis associated with cardiovascular disease and increased mortality

A study found that psoriasis is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including ischemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and peripheral artery disease. Patients with psoriasis were also more likely to die from these conditions, highlighting the need for vigilance in screening for cardiovascular risk factors.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateJun 15, 2009

'Platforms in space' to help businesses

The University of Leicester has launched G-STEP, a business-facing service that harnesses space technology for earth-bound benefits. Researchers are working with businesses and public sector organisations to provide value-added services exploiting environmental data from the GMES system.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·DateJun 15, 2009

TRAPping proteins that work together inside living cells

Researchers have developed a new crosslinking method called TRAP to study protein interactions in living cells. The method uses small crosslinkers that can be controlled with light to identify proteins working together, revealing new details about RNA polymerase in bacteria.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalChemBioChem·DateJun 15, 2009
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.

New method separates cancer cells from normal cells

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a novel method to separate cancer cells from normal cells by directing their movement along preferred directions. The technique utilizes ratcheting technology and has the potential to create a

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Physics·DateJun 15, 2009

Popular Alzheimer's theory may be false trail

Researchers found that microglial cell degeneration contributes to loss of neurons and dementia, contradicting the popular neuro-inflammation theory. The study suggests that anti-inflammatory drugs may not be effective in fighting dementia.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalActa Neuropathologica·DateJun 15, 2009

Is the sky the limit for wind power?

A new study identifies New York and eastern U.S. cities as prime locations for exploiting high-altitude winds, which contain enough energy to meet world demand 100 times over. The regions match population centers and have high wind power densities, but fluctuating wind strength poses a challenge for large-scale exploitation.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalEnergies·DateJun 15, 2009

Breakthrough in understanding severe asthma has potential for new treatment

Researchers at King's College London discovered a key element in the development of chronic asthma, linking airway remodelling to muscle cell changes. The study found that reducing SERCA2 levels in airway muscle cells may lead to effective new treatments for severe asthma.

SourceKing's College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 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.

Calcium -- the secret to honeybees' memory

Researchers have discovered that calcium modulation affects long-term memory specifically while leaving learning and short-term memory intact. The study found that increased calcium levels during learning led to stronger responses to olfactory stimuli associated with food, indicating improved memory performance.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Biology·DateJun 15, 2009

Show and prove

Temple University's School of Podiatric Medicine has received a $650,000 NIH grant to test the effectiveness of a personalized, visual diabetic foot education strategy. The program aims to improve health literacy and empower patients to make better decisions about their foot care.

SourceTemple University·DateJun 15, 2009

Brain energy use key to understanding consciousness, Yale researchers find

High levels of brain energy are necessary for maintaining consciousness, according to Yale researchers. The study proposes that a conscious person requires a high level of brain energy, which supports human behavior and should be considered when interpreting fMRI signals.

SourceYale University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 2009

MIT slows concrete creep to a crawl

Researchers at MIT identified the cause of concrete creep and found a way to slow its rate, enabling ultra-high-density materials that can last hundreds of years. This breakthrough could lead to enormous cost-savings and reduced CO2 emissions in construction.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 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.

Having a higher purpose in life reduces risk of death among older adults

A new study by researchers at Rush University Medical Center found that possessing a greater purpose in life is associated with lower mortality rates among older adults. The study used data from 1,238 community-dwelling elderly participants and found a substantially reduced risk of mortality among those with high purpose in life.

SourceRush University Medical Center·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateJun 15, 2009

NERSC helps expose cosmic transients

The Palomar Transient Factory (PTF) utilizes NERSC's tools to uncover relatively rare cosmic events like supernovae and gamma ray bursts, discovering over 40 in its commissioning phase. The survey combines automated analysis with high-end systems and networks, enabling rapid follow-up observations.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateJun 15, 2009

Amazon conservation policy working in Brazil, MSU-led study finds

A recent MSU-led study found that Brazil's protected areas within the Amazon can buffer the forest from climate change even if the remaining area is deforested. The researchers used atmospheric computer modeling to simulate a worst-case scenario and found rainfall levels would not decrease significantly.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 2009

Hungry cells

Scientists have identified a new approach to detect and treat Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, a rare inherited cancer syndrome, by exploiting tumors' weak spot in glucose metabolism. They found that targeting mTOR pathway with rapamycin can stop tumor growth, offering new treatment options.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 2009

Gating the tides in yeast

Researchers have gained insight into the regulation of aquaporins in yeast cells, revealing a previously mysterious region that acts as a gate controlling water flow. This discovery may lead to the development of inhibitors for human aquaporins, which could slow down cancer tumor growth.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 15, 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.

Predicting fatal fungal infections

Scientists have identified a method to predict which HIV-positive individuals are most susceptible to deadly fungal meningitis. The study found that people with low levels of IgM memory B cells are more likely to develop the disease, suggesting a genetic predisposition.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateJun 15, 2009

Scientists discover magnetic superatoms

Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University discovered a stable cluster of atoms that can mimic different elements of the periodic table, exhibiting strong magnetic properties. The discovery has potential applications in creating faster computers, larger memory storage, and molecular electronic devices.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 15, 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.

New study closes in on geologic history of Earth's deep interior

A study by UC Davis geochemists has produced the first picture of how different isotopes of iron were initially distributed in the solid Earth 4.5 billion years ago. The discovery could lead to investigations into the evolution of Earth's mantle and its geologic history.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Geoscience·DateJun 15, 2009

New skin cancer patch: Possible alternative to surgery

Researchers successfully treated basal cell carcinoma with a non-toxic radioactive patch, showing minimal scarring and no toxicity. The treatment delivered beta radiation to the cancer site, effectively eradicating the malignant cells.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateJun 15, 2009

How consumers continue enjoying their favorite experiences

Researchers found that thinking about similar experiences accelerates recovery from satiation, as people tend to forget the variety they had in their lives. By recalling past favorite experiences, consumers can regain enjoyment and appreciate their current experience more.

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

What limits the size of birds?

Research by Sievert Rohwer and colleagues reveals that maximum body size in birds is constrained by the molt process. As bird size increases, feathers wear out before they can be replaced, requiring alternative strategies to maintain aerodynamic support. This fundamental relationship ultimately limits the size of flying birds.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateJun 15, 2009

Gene evolution process discovered

Researchers at the University of Leeds have discovered a key mechanism governing gene evolution, revealing that protein REST controls gene expression by binding to specific genetic sequences. This process has been shown to play a leading role in the evolution of intelligence in mammals, particularly in the brain.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateJun 15, 2009

Stress puts double whammy on reproductive system, fertility

Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, have found a critical piece in the puzzle about how stress causes sexual dysfunction and infertility. Stress hormones, such as glucocorticoids like cortisol, inhibit the body's main sex hormone GnRH, while also increasing another hormone GnIH, which directly inhibits GnRH.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 2009

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers investigated calcium supplementation's effect on obese patients' weight loss, found no benefits. Red yeast rice capsules improved LDL cholesterol levels in statin-intolerant patients without muscle pain side effects. Colonoscopy-related adverse events were low but increased with age and specific comorbid conditions.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 15, 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.

As college drinking problems rise, new studies identify effective prevention strategies

Researchers found that brief motivational interviews and one-on-one counseling programs significantly reduced heavy drinking and improved behavior among high-risk students. Community-based initiatives, such as increased police patrols and online alcohol policies, also showed promise in reducing off-campus incidents involving students.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·DateJun 15, 2009

Pregnant women at high risk of complications from H1N1 influenza

A new study in CMAJ reports that oseltamivir and zanamivir are relatively safe for use in pregnant and breast-feeding women during the H1N1 pandemic. Pregnant women, especially those in the third trimester, are at high risk of serious complications from the flu virus.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 15, 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.

'Motion-frozen' technology meets high-definition PET: Helping heart patients

Researchers at SNM's Annual Meeting discovered that combining motion-frozen technology and high-definition PET enhances cardiac imaging, revealing defects invisible to physicians. The method provides exceptional image quality and significantly changes the diagnosis of patients with heart disease.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateJun 15, 2009

D.C. Math for America awarded $1.5-million NSF grant

The Carnegie Institution's CASE and Math for America (MfA) partnership aims to recruit, train, and retain effective secondary school mathematics teachers in Washington, D.C. The program has received a $1.5-million NSF grant to support 14 Fellows over the next four years.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·DateJun 15, 2009

Memories may be formed throughout the day, not just while sleeping

A study on rats reveals that neural replay of past experiences occurs both during and after wakefulness, forming long-term memories more accurately. The hippocampus replays events in peppered bursts, often involving different settings, suggesting elements of past experience are constantly reactivated.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJun 15, 2009

The downside of microtubule stability

Research finds stalled microtubules in cells with faulty dynamin 2 protein, leading to reduced nerve impulse strength and slowed movement. The stable microtubules disrupt normal cellular processes, including the formation of the Golgi complex.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJun 15, 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.

New chemistry techniques improve hybrid scanner performance

Researchers have developed a new fully integrated PET/MRI system that can provide whole-body images of rats and small animals. The system offers significant improvements in imaging capabilities, enabling increased understanding of disease characteristics and physiological processes.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·DateJun 15, 2009

They are young and need the job: A second chance for dangerous T cells

Researchers found that young autoreactive T-cells are more receptive to reeducation into regulatory T-cells. In contrast, older T-cells become fully activated and cause damage. Understanding the developmental stage of T-cells holds promise for developing new therapies for autoimmune diseases.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 2009

Extended service contracts: When and why do people buy them?

Researchers found that people are more likely to buy Extended Service Contracts for hedonic products like game controllers, which hold value due to the pain of potential loss. Price promotions also play a role, with low-income consumers more likely to purchase ESCs as they cannot afford replacements.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJun 15, 2009

New issue of Reproductive Health Matters on task shifting

The new issue of Reproductive Health Matters highlights the need for comprehensive efforts to strengthen public health systems and create a well-trained workforce. Mid-level providers are willing to take on increased workloads, raising questions about quality of care and financial remuneration.

SourceElsevier·JournalReproductive Health Matters·DateJun 15, 2009
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.

U of Alberta study discovers how proteins help repair DNA

Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered how proteins recognize and repair damaged DNA. The proteins bend the DNA double helix to amplify damage recognition, enabling the next protein to cut out the damaged section. This process can be used to develop new cancer treatments and disease prevention strategies.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 2009

Major breakthrough in early detection and prevention of AMD

A team of researchers led by Dr. Jayakrishna Ambati at the University of Kentucky has discovered a biological marker for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The marker, CCR3, shows strong potential as a means for both early detection and preventive treatment.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalNature·DateJun 15, 2009

The anti-consumption movement: Researchers examine resistance to global brands

A study in Journal of Consumer Research found that India's anti-Coca-Cola movement employs nationalism and swadeshi ideology, invoking imagery of foreign invasion and exploitation. The authors argue that global brands can become symbols of oppression, with implications for multinational corporations and policy makers.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJun 15, 2009

RNA snippet suppresses spread of aggressive breast cancer

Researchers at Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research discovered a microRNA, miR-31, that inversely correlates with metastasis in breast cancer. Increasing miR-31 levels can help predict patient prognoses and potentially aid in the development of targeted therapies.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalCell·DateJun 15, 2009
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.