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Science News Archive May 2009


Page 6 of 22

UC Riverside chemist recognized for excellence in teaching and research

Yadong Yin, an assistant professor of chemistry at UC Riverside, has been awarded the Cottrell Scholar distinction for his outstanding teaching and research in materials science. He will use a portion of his $100,000 award to support his research and attend the annual Cottrell Scholar Conference.

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.

New model suggests role of low vitamin D in cancer development

Researchers propose a new model of cancer development based on the loss of cellular communication due to low vitamin D levels. Vitamin D adequacy may halt the first stage of cancer by re-establishing intercellular junctions, potentially preventing cancer development.

TB -- hiding in plain sight

Researchers found that Mycobacterium tuberculosis evades the immune response by promoting regulatory T cells, which suppress the host response. This compartmentalization leads to chronic disease rather than complete eradication of the infection.

Cole Foundation injects $2.5 million to bolster leukemia research

The Cole Foundation has pledged $2.5 million to support up-and-coming researchers in pediatric leukemia research at the University of Montreal, McGill University, and the Institut Armand-Frappier. This investment will create new grants, awards, a cell bank, and fellowships to accelerate the fight against pediatric leukemia.

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.

'Extreme' college drinking and a sensation-seeking disposition lead to injury

A recent study found that frequent extreme heavy drinkers, particularly those with a sensation-seeking disposition, face a heightened risk of alcohol-related injuries. The study analyzed data from over 12,900 college students and discovered a significant correlation between excessive drinking patterns and increased injury rates.

Multiferroics -- making a switch the electric way

A team of researchers from Berkeley Lab has made a breakthrough in controlling the electric and magnetic properties of a multiferroic material by applying electric fields. The study uses calcium-doped bismuth ferrite film, creating p–n junctions that can be created, erased, and inverted with ease.

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.

Waxy plant substance key for absorption of water, nutrients

Scientists have discovered a mutant form of Arabidopsis with twice the amount of suberin, allowing them to test the theory that suberin blocks water and nutrient absorption. By adjusting suberin levels, plants can be engineered to absorb beneficial nutrients more efficiently.

African-American women with advanced breast cancer often forego vital treatment

A new study reveals that nearly one in four African American women with late-stage breast cancer refuse chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The authors emphasize the need for improved healthcare access and education to encourage treatment adherence. Further research is necessary to understand the factors contributing to this disparity.

Scientists announce top 10 new species, issue SOS

The International Institute for Species Exploration announced the top 10 new species discovered in 2008, including a pea-sized seahorse, caffeine-free coffee, and bacteria that live in hairspray. The list also includes the world's longest insect, the world's smallest snake, and a ghost slug from Wales.

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.

Investigating the development of mechanosensitivity

Scientists have directly elucidated the emergence of mechanosensitivity in mice, finding it arises during specific developmental phases with the growth of neuronal pathways. The study suggests a genetic program drives this process, which is distinct from pain sensitivity development.

Canadian men reluctant to consult mental health services

A recent study published in the Journal of Behavioral Health Services & Research found that Canadian men are reluctant to seek mental health services, with avoidance rates ranging from 20-70%. The primary cause cited is prejudice, which affects how men perceive their symptoms and social roles, leading to a reluctance to utilize services.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Recovery funds will support evaluation of suicide prevention training

The National Institute of Mental Health is using Recovery Act funds to evaluate the effectiveness of a new training program for telephone crisis counselors. The training, which began in 2008, aims to assess the benefits of the training and shape telephone-based suicide prevention services across the country.

A potential drug for liver carcinoma

Researchers discovered a novel compound, ADFMChR, with potent anti-tumor activity against human liver carcinoma cells. The compound induces apoptosis and modulates key proteins, providing new insights into its potential as a cancer-preventive agent.

A novel marker of colorectal carcinoma

A novel marker of TSPAN1 has been identified as a significant prognostic indicator for patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma. The protein's expression was found to correlate with histological grade, cell proliferation, lymph nodal metastasis, and TNM staging, leading to a shorter survival period in those with overexpression.

Why the thumb of the right hand is on the left hand side

The concentration of Hedgehog determines whether the right hand thumb grows on the left hand side, a mechanism controlled by different concentrations of the molecule. The study found that cells use various molecular mechanisms to interpret different Hedgehog concentrations.

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.

A first choice of renal function tests in hepatectomy patients

The study found that estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) equations, particularly eGFR5 and eGFR3, are reliable preoperative renal function tests for patients undergoing hepatectomy. These equations were compared to creatinine clearance (Ccr), with significant differences in postoperative serum creatinine levels

Tips from the American Journal of Pathology

Two studies in the American Journal of Pathology demonstrate stromal caveolin-1 as a prognostic marker for breast cancer progression, correlating with reduced metastasis levels. Additionally, researchers have identified novel biomarkers for chronic kidney disease progression, predicting progressive renal fibrosis and glomerular filtrat...

Biodiversity beyond the habitat's borders

Researchers found that connecting habitat patches with corridors increases plant biodiversity in protected areas and surrounding non-target habitats. This spillover effect can elevate biodiversity by up to 160%.

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.

Democracy spreading in Africa despite challenges, survey finds

Despite growing demand for democracy, only 47% of Africans believe they have a democratic government, and 46% are satisfied with its functioning. The survey found that demand for democracy varies widely among countries, from 18% in Burkina Faso to 71% in Zambia.

New 3-D structural model of critical H1N1 protein developed

Researchers at the Bioinformatics Institute in Singapore have created a 3D structural model of the neuraminidase protein, which is critical to the H1N1 influenza A virus. This breakthrough analysis revealed extensive surface mutations compared to closely related strains, making previous flu vaccinations less effective. The study also f...

Mayo Clinic researchers examine the psychological impact of child abuse

A Mayo Clinic study reveals a history of child abuse significantly impacts the challenges faced by depressed inpatients, including increased suicide attempts and psychiatric hospitalizations. The research highlights the importance of aggressive approaches to prevent child abuse and stresses the need for more public health initiatives.

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.

Diabetics' heart attack risk can be reduced, research finds

Research published in The Lancet found that diabetics who maintain intensive, low blood sugar levels are significantly less likely to suffer heart attacks and coronary heart disease. This is due to a 17% reduction in heart attacks and a 15% reduction in coronary heart disease.

Scientists discover genetic defects linked with rare bearded lady

Scientists have identified genetic mutations on chromosome 17q24.2-q24.3 as responsible for Congenital Generalized Hypertrichosis Terminalis (CGHT), a rare condition characterized by excessive hair growth and facial distortion. The discovery provides new insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying this condition.

Personal discrimination on the Web

Researchers developed a system to extract subjective expressions from web pages, scoring them for subjectivity and indicating whether they express personal opinions or marketing speak. The method outperformed general search engines in detecting personal opinion pages across four categories.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Web-based program designs more efficient farm terrace layouts

A new web-based program developed by University of Missouri researchers produces multiple alternative terrace layouts in a fraction of the time required for manual planning. The system considers factors such as water flow, land perimeter, and soil conservation techniques to create efficient and cost-effective designs.

NIST helping improve speed measurements for cars, bullets

Researchers at NIST developed formulas to help law enforcement officers accurately calibrate down-the-road radar devices and ballistic chronographs. The new tools provide more precise speed measurements, improving the effectiveness of crime-fighting technologies.

Sleeping through dialysis: No nightmare for kidney patients

A new study shows that overnight dialysis is a viable alternative for patients with irreversible kidney disease, offering improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare burden. The long-term results of this therapy were found to be well-tolerated by most patients, with lower rates of anemia and reduced levels of urea in their blood.

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.

The cosmos is green: Researchers catch nature in the act of 'recycling' a star

Researchers observe transformation of an ordinary, slow-rotating pulsar into a superfast millisecond pulsar with an almost infinitely extended lifespan. The discovery provides direct evidence for the process of cosmic recycling, where matter from a companion star falls into a pulsar's gravity well, increasing its rotation speed.

Elderly women with 'dowager's hump' may be at higher risk of earlier death

A recent study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that elderly women with hyperkyphosis, or 'dowager's hump,' are at a higher risk for premature death. The study, which analyzed data from over 610 women, suggests that the increased spinal curvature itself may be predictive of adverse health outcomes.

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.

New direction needed for obesity research, Deakin health expert claims

Deakin health expert Professor Boyd Swinburn argues that research funding should focus on testing potential solutions rather than understanding the causes of weight gain. He suggests 'rule-based' approaches, such as dietary rules or policies, may be more effective in preventing obesity and promoting sustainable environmental changes.

Mockingbirds in fickle climates sing fancier tunes

In diverse habitats, species in variable climates sing more complex tunes, indicating environmental adaptability. This connection reveals that birds may use song complexity as a display of learning ability and intelligence.

More than a bad night's sleep

A recent study published in Diabetes Care found that nearly 87 percent of obese individuals with type 2 diabetes were undiagnosed with sleep apnea, despite reporting symptoms. This association is alarming as untreated sleep apnea can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Telemedicine may improve care for school children with diabetes

A study published in The Journal of Pediatrics found that telemedicine improves diabetes care for school children with better blood sugar control and reduced hospital visits. School nurses who used the program reported improved patient outcomes, including increased patient satisfaction and completed tasks related to their diabetes care.

Gene therapy could expand stem cells' promise

Researchers discuss a combined approach to maximize the benefits of stem cell therapy while minimizing risks. Gene therapy has the potential to solve the problem of wayward stem cells wreaking havoc after transplantation by genetically modifying them prior to use.

Getting more from whole-transcript microarrays

Researchers demonstrate that Affymetrix Gene platform can analyze differential splicing activity, comparable to Exon arrays, providing added value to existing data. The new statistical method, FIRMAGene, uses adjacent poorly fitting probes to calculate differential expression.

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.

When climate is iffy, birds sing a more elaborate tune

Researchers found that birds in more unpredictable climates have more impressive singing skills, likely as a way to attract mates. The study suggests that this phenomenon may be an evolutionary adaptation for traits like language and music.