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Science News for May 12, 2009


Scientists identify gene in breast cancer pathway

Researchers found that the gene ZBP1 is silenced in metastasizing breast cancer cells due to a methyl group attachment, leading to increased cell migration and proliferation. The study suggests potential drug targets for preventing metastasis and may help predict breast tumor outcomes by identifying signs of ZBP1 silencing.

SourceAlbert Einstein College of Medicine·JournalJournal of Cell Science·DateMay 12, 2009

Molecular structure could help explain albinism, melanoma

A team of scientists has identified the molecular structure of hemocyanin, a protein complex involved in skin and hair coloring. The study reveals how hemocyanin is activated, leading to an understanding of both albinism and melanoma.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalStructure·DateMay 12, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A feasible, simple and convenient model for study of rectal carcinoma

A new rabbit rectal VX2 carcinoma model has been successfully established, mimicking human rectal carcinoma in pathological representation, tumor development, and metastasis. The model's ease of establishment, short growth period, and high stability make it an ideal major animal model for studying rectal carcinoma.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 12, 2009

Home-based diet and exercise intervention can improve physical function in older cancer survivors

A home-based program aimed at improving exercise and diet can lead to significant improvements in physical function among older long-term cancer survivors. The study found that the intervention group had higher levels of physical function compared to the control arm, with declines in functional decline of almost five points versus slig...

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalJAMA·DateMay 12, 2009

Placement of dental implants results in minimal bone loss

A recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that marginal bone remodeling occurs between implant placement and prosthesis placement. After a five-year follow-up, minimal mean bone change was observed, indicating dental implants can be an effective tooth replacement option.

SourceAmerican Academy of Periodontology·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateMay 12, 2009

Farnesoid X receptor regulates cystathionase

The Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) regulates the expression of cystathionase, an enzyme involved in hydrogen sulfide production. FXR agonists may correct for altered endogenous vasodilator generation in chronic liver diseases.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 12, 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.

Any way you slice it, warming climate is affecting Cascades snowpack

New research reveals a significant decline in Cascades snowpack due to warming climate, with potential implications for drinking water supplies, fisheries, irrigation, and hydropower. The study used multiple methods to analyze decades-long records of water content in the central Puget Sound basin.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalJournal of Climate·DateMay 12, 2009

Princeton team's analysis of flu virus could lead to better vaccines

Researchers found that antibody interference can hinder vaccine effectiveness, proposing a new approach to design more powerful vaccines. They suggest intentionally developing a vaccine strain that differs from the anticipated infectious virus at specific sites.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 12, 2009

Predators ignore peculiar prey

Researchers found that birds target salamanders with dominant traits more frequently, even when the ratio of these traits changes. This suggests that predators prioritize common prey forms, allowing unusual traits to persist.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Ecology·DateMay 12, 2009

Enriched environment improves wound healing in rats

Researchers found that giving rats living in isolation the opportunity to build nests led to faster and more complete healing of burn injuries than isolation-reared rats without nest-building materials. This effect was associated with altered gene expression in stress-associated brain structures.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 12, 2009
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.

Early Alzheimer's diagnosis offers large social, fiscal benefits

A new study suggests that early diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's disease can lead to significant cost savings and improved quality of life for patients and their families. The research estimates that earlier intervention could save billions of dollars in long-term care costs, while also providing positive social benefits.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·DateMay 12, 2009

Participants in antidepressant drug trials are atypical patients, UT Southwestern researchers report

Researchers found that only 22% of participants met trial criteria, had shorter bouts of depression, quicker response to medication, and fewer side effects compared to excluded patients. The study suggests that antidepressants should not be seen as a panacea and calls for more research on treatment-resistant depression patients.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateMay 12, 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.

In retinal disease, sight may depend on second sites

A team of scientists discovered a genetic modifier, A229T, that increases the risk of retinal degeneration and blindness in patients with ciliary diseases. The study found that this change affects protein interactions critical for retinal function, leading to progressive vision loss.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateMay 12, 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.

Women with previous abnormal cervical cells at higher risk for recurrence and invasive cancer

A large population-based study found that women who have been treated for abnormal cervical cell growth are at higher risk for a recurrence of the disease or invasive cervical cancer. The study's findings should help guide physicians in making recommendations about follow-up treatment guidelines.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMay 12, 2009

Study outlines how to succeed with refillable packaging

A new study outlines essential elements for successful refillable packaging, including affordability without sacrificing quality. Consumer surveys revealed that environmentally-friendly concerns drive usage, while businesses see it as a way to demonstrate responsibility and reduce costs.

SourceWiley·JournalPackaging Technology and Science·DateMay 12, 2009

A 'light bulb' moment for people with dementia

Researchers test blue-white lamp prototypes to regulate sleep-wake cycles in people with dementia. The study shows promise in raising activity levels during daytime hours and increasing sleep at nighttime.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·DateMay 12, 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.

UCI awarded $45 million for infectious disease research

The University of California, Irvine has been awarded a $45 million grant over five years to conduct infectious disease research. The grant is the campus's largest ever and will focus on improving detection, treatment, and vaccine development for bioterrorism agents and emerging infections.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·DateMay 12, 2009

Enriched environment improves wound healing in rats

Researchers found that providing rats with nest-building materials significantly improved wound healing and altered gene expression in the brain, leading to faster healing rates and reduced stress effects. The study suggests a novel approach to improving physical health through environmental stimulation.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 12, 2009

22-year study finds adults aren't active enough

A 22-year longitudinal study found that nearly 56% of Canadian adults are consistently inactive, with only 12% remaining active in each subsequent survey. Socio-economic factors, such as education and income level, significantly influence physical activity levels among participants.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity·DateMay 12, 2009

Too much information: Process thinking can lead to difficult choices

A new study in Journal of Consumer Research finds that process-oriented thinking can increase decision difficulty and hinder consumers' motivation. This type of thinking involves considering both means and end benefits when making purchases, leading to more difficult choices.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMay 12, 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.

Following the leader: Social networks of schoolchildren

Researchers found that 'lead users' with strong social connections are key to developing innovative products, while 'opinion leaders' influence locally. The study analyzed data from 537 Dutch schoolchildren aged 9-11.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMay 12, 2009

A genome may reduce your carbon footprint

A new study published in The Plant Genome suggests that acquiring cheap genome sequence data can improve the quality of feedstocks used to create biofuels, potentially reducing carbon footprint. This could lead to more sustainable high-yield production with minimal inputs.

SourceCrop Science Society of America·JournalThe Plant Genome·DateMay 12, 2009

Body movements can influence problem solving, researchers report

A new study found that body movements can aid in problem-solving, with participants who swung their arms more likely to solve a complex problem. The study's findings suggest that the brain uses bodily cues to help understand and solve problems, even when the individual is not consciously aware of it.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalPsychonomic Bulletin & Review·DateMay 12, 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.

Climate change driving Michigan mammals north

A new study reveals that Michigan mammal species are rapidly expanding their ranges northward in response to climate change. This shift is replacing historically northern species with southern equivalents, which could have significant ecological implications.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateMay 12, 2009

Now or later? Consumer product evaluation depends on purchase timing

A new study finds that consumers evaluate products differently based on the timing of their purchase. When considering future use, desirability is a primary factor, while feasibility takes precedence for immediate use. Reevaluating a product later can also influence judgments, with future-considered products being viewed more favorably.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMay 12, 2009

When to get your bone density measured -- that is the question

A new study provides clear protocols for clinicians to follow, updating fracture risk algorithms and creating simple tables to guide doctors. The findings suggest that repeat bone density measurements can help prognosis of fracture in patients at risk due to age and other factors.

SourceResearch Australia·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateMay 12, 2009

Drinking water watched by Queensland's seventh sense

A network of 120 sensors is monitoring Lake Wivenhoe's environmental conditions in real-time, enabling early detection of contaminants and high rainfall events. The system uses CSIRO's FLECK smart wireless sensor technology to collect detailed data on water quality, event flows, and weather patterns.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateMay 12, 2009
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.

$24.4 million for research into future health care solutions

The Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) has awarded £16.5m in grants to develop new techniques for screening and treating major public health issues such as cancer and stroke. The projects aim to create affordable home-based stroke detectors and cancer screening devices.

SourceEngineering and Physical Sciences Research Council·DateMay 12, 2009

miR-196a promotes the metastases of tumors

The study found that miR-196a promotes the metastasis of tumors by activating oncogenic pathways, leading to increased lung metastases in animal models. Additionally, high levels of miR-196a were associated with poor patient survival in pancreatic cancer patients.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 12, 2009

Ben-Gurion U of the Negev study demonstrates link between appetite and elderly mortality

A recent study by Ben-Gurion University of the Negev reveals a strong link between daily activity energy expenditure and appetite in elderly adults. Participants who reported improved appetite were found to have lower mortality rates, suggesting that subjective appetite measurement can be an important predictor of death.

SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalThe journal of nutrition health & aging·DateMay 12, 2009

'Beating' heart machine expedites research and development of new surgical tools, techniques

A North Carolina State University-developed machine allows researchers to test and refine technologies in a realistic surgical environment, saving time and money. The 'dynamic heart system' enables researchers to conduct 'proof of concept' evaluations before testing on live animals, making the development process more efficient.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAnnals of Biomedical Engineering·DateMay 12, 2009
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.

Biomass as a source of raw materials

Scientists develop catalytic process to convert phenolic components of bio-oil directly into cycloalkanes and methanol. The 'one-pot' reaction uses palladium metal on a carbon support and phosphoric acid as a proton source.

SourceWiley·DateMay 12, 2009

Monitoring water through a snake's eyes

A new system developed by Prof. Abraham Katzir can detect contaminants in water supply in real time, providing early warning to authorities. The system uses special fibers that can distinguish between pure and contaminated water using the invisible infrared spectrum.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Applied Spectroscopy·DateMay 12, 2009

Opportunity costs: Remind consumers about savings

A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that drawing consumers' attention to opportunity costs leads to different purchasing decisions. By explicitly naming opportunity costs, consumers become more price sensitive and tend to choose cheaper options.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMay 12, 2009

Hyperferritinemia is another surrogate marker of advanced liver disease

A study investigated the link between high ferritin levels and steatosis in a non-obese cohort of non-alcoholic patients, finding hyperferritinemia as a surrogate marker of advanced liver disease. The research suggests that high ferritin levels are associated with low platelet count, steatosis and clinical relevance.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 12, 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.

Taking folic acid for a year before pregnancy may reduce risk of preterm birth

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that women who take folic acid supplements for at least one year before becoming pregnant are less likely to have premature babies. The research suggests a significant reduction in very early and early preterm deliveries, with a 70% decrease in the most high-risk category.

SourceMarch of Dimes Foundation·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateMay 12, 2009

Pandemic warning system keys on 'human factors'

Researchers propose a new system to warn of impending pandemics by monitoring subtle signals in human behavior, such as increased flu-related medication purchases. This approach aims to overcome the traditional challenge of knowing when events leading to pandemics begin, allowing for proactive measures to be taken.

SourcePurdue University·DateMay 12, 2009
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Interventional radiology: From sidelines to mainstream for patients

The American College of Radiology has reaffirmed its support for clinical patient management by vascular and interventional radiologists. These specialists provide minimally invasive treatment options with less risk, pain, and recovery time compared to open surgery. With this extension, interventional radiologists are formalizing their...

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·DateMay 12, 2009

New H1N1 flu resource center available on thelancet.com

The Lancet has partnered with Elsevier to launch a new H1N1 Flu Resource Centre, aggregating infectious disease and public health information from across its content. The centre provides timely and accurate information on the prevention, detection, diagnosis, and treatment of the influenza A H1N1 virus.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 12, 2009

How to build a bigger brain

A UCLA study found that meditation increases gray matter in areas of the brain regulating emotions, leading to improved emotional stability and mindful behavior. Long-term meditators showed significantly larger volumes in regions such as the hippocampus and orbito-frontal cortex.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNeuroImage·DateMay 12, 2009
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

p90RSK: A new therapeutic target for liver fibrosis?

Scientists have discovered that p90RSK plays a critical role in activating hepatic stellate cells, which produce excessive collagen leading to liver fibrosis. Downregulating p90RSK inhibits HSC proliferation and collagen expression, providing a new therapeutic target for treating liver fibrosis.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 12, 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.

NPs-NPR-B/pGC-cGMP signal pathway is involved in diabetic gastroparesis

The NPs-NPR-B/pGC-cGMP signal pathway is up-regulated in diabetic rats, leading to potentiated relaxation and increased cGMP production in gastric smooth muscle. This suggests a potential role of the CNP-(NPR-B)-pGC-cGMP pathway in the pathogenesis of diabetic gastroparesis.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMay 12, 2009

JNCI May 12 issue tip sheet

A review of phase I clinical trial designs and the association between lymphovascular invasion and breast cancer recurrence, highlighting the need for new methods to expedite drug development and improve patient outcomes.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMay 12, 2009

Improving education may cut smoking in youth

A new study found that high-achieving schoolchildren, even from poor families, are less likely to smoke. This suggests that improved education for children from disadvantaged backgrounds could be an effective intervention in reducing smoking prevalence and addressing social inequality.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalInternational Journal for Equity in Health·DateMay 12, 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.

Compact cancer-therapy particle-delivery system patented

A physicist at Brookhaven National Laboratory has developed a compact and cost-effective gantry design for delivering tumor-killing particle beams, reducing weight and size by up to 100 times. This new design could make precision particle therapy available to more cancer patients worldwide.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·DateMay 12, 2009

Consumer anger pays off: Strategic displays may aid negotiations

A new study finds that consumers can use 'emotion gaming' to get better deals by exaggerating their anger levels. This tactic is effective when proposers believe the receivers' emotions are genuine. However, if proposers suspect a strategic display, its impact on offers disappears.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMay 12, 2009

Milestone in live microscopy focus of $2 million NIH grant

A UC Davis team plans to extend the capabilities of a powerful new imaging tool called DTEM, enabling scientists to observe and record biological processes at the molecular level. The instrument could achieve resolutions 100 times greater than currently attainable for live processes.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·DateMay 12, 2009

Sodium bicarbonate reduces incidence of contrast-induced nephropathy

A meta-analysis of 17 randomized controlled trials found that pre-procedural treatment with sodium bicarbonate-based hydration is the optimal strategy to prevent contrast-induced nephropathy. Sodium bicarbonate was superior to normal saline in reducing CIN incidence, with a number needed to prevent one case being 16.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateMay 12, 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.

Women diagnosed with precancerous CIN at risk for cervical cancer

A large retrospective cohort study found that women with precancerous Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN) are at higher risk of developing invasive cervical cancer and recurrent severe CIN, especially after treatment. The study suggests the need for long-term follow-up of these patients.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMay 12, 2009