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Science News for September 14, 2009


Zinc deficiences a global concern

Studies found significant DNA damage in humans with minor zinc deficiency, highlighting the health implications of inadequate intake. Experts recommend multivitamins for elderly individuals to ensure adequate levels, as zinc is essential for antioxidant defense and DNA repair.

SourceOregon State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition·DateSep 14, 2009

Conflict between plant and animal hormones in the insect gut?

Researchers found that a specific glutathione S-transferase in the insect gut converts plant hormone cis-OPDA into iso-OPDA, which is then used by caterpillars to survive on host plants. This adaptation allows generalist caterpillars to thrive on diverse plant species.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2009
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The future of schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a heterogeneous syndrome with substantial variation in symptomatology and life history. A paradigm shift in research focuses on identifying critical domains of pathology, such as positive and negative symptoms, cognitive impairment, and impaired cognition. This shift aims to improve treatment efficacy by targeting spec...

SourceEuropean College of Neuropsychopharmacology·DateSep 14, 2009

UCLA School of Dentistry to build new cancer research facility

The UCLA School of Dentistry is building a state-of-the-art cancer research facility to consolidate and expand its oral cancer research. The Yip Center for Oral/Head & Neck Oncology Research will include cutting-edge laboratories for genomics, proteomics, and salivary diagnostics research.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·DateSep 14, 2009

JCI online early table of contents: Sept. 14, 2009

Researchers have found that T cells from individuals with X-linked lymphoproliferative disease (XLP) are resistant to cell death triggered by repeated stimulation of a cell surface protein complex, leading to uncontrolled expansion upon infection. Additionally, a molecular regulatory network controlled by the protein SPDEF governs alle...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 14, 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.

New 'adjuvant' could hold future of vaccine development

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a new vaccine adjuvant using lecithin nanoparticles, which showed improved immune response and reduced toxicity compared to existing alum-based adjuvants. The new adjuvant could potentially become a universal carrier for vaccines and help tackle various diseases more effectively.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Controlled Release·DateSep 14, 2009

Plasma power: Turning fusion into a renewable energy source

A team of researchers from UC San Diego, MIT, and UC Berkeley are working on fundamental multiscale studies of plasma-material interactions to improve the scientific understanding of magnetic confinement fusion. Their goal is to engineer plasma walls that can survive in the environment necessary for fusion power generation.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateSep 14, 2009

Communication problems in dementia care cause physical strain

A new study reveals that communication problems and misunderstandings are the primary causes of physical strain in dementia care. Effective communication techniques, such as explaining instructions with different words and using body language, can help reduce this strain.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalScandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences·DateSep 14, 2009

The making of mucus in common lung diseases

Research reveals that SPDEF regulates mucus hyperproduction in common lung diseases through goblet cell differentiation. The study found that this network is active in patients with chronic lung diseases, suggesting new therapeutic targets.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 14, 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.

Widespread occurrence of intersex bass found in US Rivers

Intersex fish were found in about a third of all sites examined from the Apalachicola, Colorado, Columbia, Mobile, Mississippi, Pee Dee, Rio Grande, Savannah, and Yukon River basins. Largemouth bass in southeastern U.S. had the highest prevalence of intersex, with some sites reporting up to 73% incidence.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalAquatic Toxicology·DateSep 14, 2009

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Researchers found that tamoxifen citrate, raloxifene, and tibolone reduce the risk of invasive breast cancer, but increase the risk for adverse events. Particle beam radiation therapy may be more effective in treating cancer while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateSep 14, 2009

Cutting sodium consumption: A major public health priority

Excessive sodium consumption linked to high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and various cancers. A population-wide reduction in sodium intake could prevent significant cardiovascular events.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 14, 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.

Lung cancer suppresses miR-200 to invade and spread

Researchers found that primary lung cancer shifts to metastatic disease by suppressing microRNA-200, a family of small molecules that normally locks the tumor in a noninvasive state. Protecting miR-200 from blockade completely prevented metastasis in mice.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalGenes & Development·DateSep 14, 2009

Steroid injections may help restore vision in some patients with blocked eye veins

Researchers found that a 1-milligram dose of triamcinolone significantly improved vision in some patients with retinal vein occlusion. The treatment also showed superior safety compared to existing laser therapies. However, grid photocoagulation remained the preferred option for those with blockages in smaller branches of the vein.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Ophthalmology·DateSep 14, 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.

Fake video dramatically alters eyewitness accounts

Researchers found that nearly 50% of people shown fake footage were prepared to believe the video version rather than what they actually saw. Fake video evidence was used in an experiment to test whether it could induce individuals to accuse another person of doing something they never did.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalApplied Cognitive Psychology·DateSep 14, 2009

Sierra Nevada birds move in response to warmer, wetter climate

A study led by biologists at UC Berkeley found that 48 out of 53 bird species in California's Sierra Nevada mountains have adjusted their ranges in response to climate change, with some moving towards warmer temperatures and others preferring wetter conditions. The researchers used data from a survey of 82 sites and compared past and p...

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 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.

Neurons found to be similar to Electoral College

Researchers have found that neurons integrate synaptic inputs locally before sending signals to the central axon, similar to how electoral votes contribute to a president's election. The study suggests a two-stage model of dendritic integration, which could lead to better understanding of brain processes like learning and memory.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNeuron·DateSep 14, 2009

Asthma: Epidemiology, etiology and risk factors

The article examines asthma risk factors across different age groups, including prenatal, infancy, childhood, and adulthood. Genetic, environmental, and host characteristics are identified as significant contributors to the development of persistent asthma.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateSep 14, 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.

Scientists identify gene for short-circuiting excess mucus in lung disease, common colds

Researchers have identified a genetic switch that causes excessive mucus in the lungs, shedding light on a medical mystery. The study found that a transcription factor called SPDEF regulates a chain of genes involved in mucus production, and blocking its influence may be a potential pathway for new treatments.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 14, 2009

September/October 2009 Annals of Family Medicine tip sheet

Researchers found that universal health insurance reduces income inequities in healthcare access, but education-related disparities persist. Insured children with uninsured parents are more likely to experience unmet healthcare needs and lack preventive services.

SourceAmerican Academy of Family Physicians·JournalThe Annals of Family Medicine·DateSep 14, 2009

Barcoding endangered sea turtles

A new DNA barcoding tool has been developed to track endangered sea turtles, distinguishing between species based on short genetic sequences. The research found that all seven sea turtle species can be consistently distinguished from each other by DNA barcodes.

SourceAmerican Museum of Natural History·JournalMolecular Ecology Resources·DateSep 14, 2009

During CPR, more chest compressions mean more saved lives

A recent study published in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association found that longer periods of uninterrupted chest compressions during CPR lead to better survival outcomes. The study analyzed data from 506 patients and discovered that a return to spontaneous circulation was achieved in 58% of cases with minimal compres...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateSep 14, 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.

MUHC/McGill researchers to WHO: Time to revise tuberculosis treatment guidelines

A recent study by MUHC/McGill researchers suggests that tuberculosis treatment guidelines should be revised, recommending extended treatment periods for new cases and more effective combinations of drugs to avoid drug resistance. The World Health Organization is urged to review its directives to benefit the global community

SourceMcGill University Health Centre·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateSep 14, 2009

Athletes with smaller ACLs may be more susceptible to injury

Researchers found that athletes with previous injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tend to have smaller ACLs than those without injuries. The study suggests that a smaller ACL may be more susceptible to injury due to various factors such as activity level, neuromuscular coordination, and muscle strength.

SourceOhio State University·DateSep 14, 2009

Diabetes drug kills cancer stem cells in combination treatment in mice

Researchers found a diabetes drug, metformin, selectively targets and kills cancer stem cells in mice, reducing tumor growth and prolonging remission. The compound's effectiveness is attributed to its ability to work independently of insulin sensitivity improvements.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateSep 14, 2009

Implantable defibrillators may not benefit women with heart failure

A meta-analysis of previously published research found that implantable cardioverter-defibrillator therapy does not significantly reduce all-cause mortality in women with advanced heart failure. This suggests that a larger study population may be needed to show any benefit of defibrillator implantation in women.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateSep 14, 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.

How do we perceive art?

Researchers are studying the principles of perception in art using both artistic and neuroscientific viewpoints. The collaboration aims to understand how we gaze at art pieces compared to non-artistic images.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·DateSep 14, 2009

The story of the development of noninvasive heart care

Dean Franklin, an engineer, and two physicians, Robert Rushmer and Robert Van Citters, pioneered noninvasive imaging and treatment of the heart. They developed devices that measured blood flow, heartbeat dimensions, and blood pressure without cutting open the body.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·JournalAJP Advances in Physiology Education·DateSep 14, 2009

New insights into cardiac aging

A study published in Aging Cell found that the conserved protein d4eBP protects heart function against aging, revealing a potential mechanism for cardiac aging. The research also sheds light on the TOR and FoxO signaling pathways, with implications for human heart health.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalAging Cell·DateSep 14, 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.

Nanoparticle treatment for burns curbs infection, reduces inflammation

Researchers at University of Michigan have developed a nanoemulsion lotion that sharples curbs bacterial growth and reduces inflammation in second-degree burns. The treatment shows promise in overcoming current creams' limitations, reducing bacterial growth one-thousand-fold compared to control animals.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateSep 14, 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.

Depression increases cancer patients' risk of dying

A recent meta-analysis published in Cancer found that depression is associated with a higher risk of death in cancer patients, with death rates up to 25% higher for those experiencing depressive symptoms. The study highlights the need for systematic screening and treatment of psychological distress in cancer patients.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalCancer·DateSep 14, 2009

Diabetes drug kills cancer stem cells in combination treatment in mice

Researchers at Harvard Medical School have discovered a diabetes drug that selectively targets and kills cancer stem cells in mice, leading to faster tumor reduction and prolonged remission. The findings support the potential use of metformin as a first-line treatment in breast cancer patients.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCancer Research·DateSep 14, 2009

When you've doubled your genes, what's 1 chromosome more or less?

Researchers studied polyploidy's effects on cell division in plants, finding that some cells can tolerate aneuploidy without detrimental consequences. The study provides new insights into how genetic changes can lead to evolutionary change and affect plant fitness.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateSep 14, 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.

Green tea component may help preserve stored platelets, tissues

Researchers found that green tea component EGCG can prolong the preservation of stored blood platelets by up to six days via anti-apoptosis properties. Additionally, EGCG was shown to preserve skin tissues by controlling cell division and preventing oxidation, allowing for the storage of skin grafts up to seven weeks.

SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateSep 14, 2009

Figures of speech -- understanding idioms requires both sides of the brain

Researchers found that idiomatic sentences activated the right middle temporal gyrus and right medial frontal gyrus, indicating a more complex understanding process. The left hemisphere's role in suppressing literal meaning was not specifically activated, but limbic regions involved emotional responses were.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Neuroscience·DateSep 14, 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.

New function for the protein Bcl-xL: It prevents bone breakdown

The Bcl-xL protein prevents bone breakdown by negatively regulating the bone-resorbing activity of osteoclasts. In mice, Bcl-xL promotes osteoclast survival and decreases extracellular matrix production, leading to increased osteoclast-mediated bone resorption.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 14, 2009

Cancer risk raised after northern Italian industrial accident

A study found increased risks of breast cancer in women from the most exposed zone and an excess of lymphatic and hematopoietic tissue neoplasms in all but the least exposed zone. Researchers analyzed medical records of over 36,000 individuals exposed to dioxin after a 1976 industrial accident.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateSep 14, 2009

What happens when immune cells just won't die?

T cells from XLP patients are resistant to cell death triggered by repeated stimulation of the TCR complex. This resistance enables uncontrolled T cell expansion upon infection with common viruses like infectious mononucleosis.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 14, 2009

Heart study shows many suffer poor quality of life

A recent study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that 29% of chronic angina patients experience angina chest pain at least once a week. Despite treatment options, many patients report limited enjoyment of life due to the symptom.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateSep 14, 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.

On-the-job pesticide exposure associated with Parkinson's disease

A new study found that occupational pesticide exposure is associated with an increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease. The study, published in Archives of Neurology, investigated the link between pesticide use and parkinsonism, and found that certain pesticides more than doubled the risk of the disease.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateSep 14, 2009

Figuring out the heads or tails decision in regeneration

Researchers found that wntP-1 gene expression occurs at all wound sites, triggering regeneration polarity in planaria. Blocking the gene results in heads regrowing instead of tails.

SourceWhitehead Institute for Biomedical Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 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.

Going with the flow: Using star power to better understand fusion

Researchers will study turbulent transport and organization in fusion and astrophysical plasmas to design better, smaller and cheaper fusion systems. Understanding the link between flow self-organization and large-scale flow dissipation may also improve ITER's fusion power production.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateSep 14, 2009

Tropical Storm Koppu poised for China landfall

Tropical Storm Koppu is expected to make landfall in mainland China on September 15, bringing heavy rainfall, heavy surf conditions, and gusty winds. The storm has sustained winds near 69 mph and is forecast to strengthen slightly before landfall.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 14, 2009

For carnivorous plants, slow but steady wins the race

Researchers found that carnivorous plant traps are cheaper to make than leaves, contrary to evolutionary predictions. This discovery sheds light on how complete food webs operate, highlighting the benefits and trade-offs of nutrient allocation in plant ecology.

SourceBotanical Society of America·JournalAmerican Journal of Botany·DateSep 14, 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.

Engineering team to design and study liver mimics

Researchers are designing liver mimics that can eventually form the basis for extracorporeal liver-assist devices. The primary research goal is to assemble 3D cellular structures that mimic the liver, capturing precise spacing between different cell types.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateSep 14, 2009

Evidence points to conscious 'metacognition' in some nonhuman animals

New research suggests that some nonhuman animals, including dolphins and macaque monkeys, may possess functional parallels to humans' consciousness and cognitive self-awareness. These species exhibit behaviors such as hesitation and uncertainty, indicating a capacity for metacognition.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·DateSep 14, 2009

Antioxidant ingredient proven to relieve stress

A melon-derived antioxidant supplement has been shown to relieve stress and fatigue in healthy volunteers. The study found significant improvements in perceived stress symptoms after 28 days, but not beyond the initial 7-day period of placebo effect.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalNutrition Journal·DateSep 14, 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.

Understanding the implications of prenatal testing for Down syndrome

The introduction of new prenatal tests for Down syndrome has led to a steady decrease in births of babies with the condition since their introduction. Experts argue that existing tests may not be providing accurate information, leading to difficult conversations between physicians and expectant parents. To address this, researchers are...

SourceBoston Children's Hospital·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateSep 14, 2009

Ice cream may target the brain before your hips, UT Southwestern study suggests

A new UT Southwestern study suggests that fat from certain foods makes its way to the brain, causing it to send messages to cells warning them to ignore hunger signals. The researchers found that palmitic acid, a type of saturated fatty acid, is particularly effective at triggering this mechanism.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateSep 14, 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.

Digging deeper below Antarctica's Lake Vida

Researchers will drill through Lake Vida's thick ice cap to study the brine and sediment below, aiming to understand the ecosystem's history and its survival strategies in extremely cold conditions. The project, funded by a $1.1 million grant, may reveal insights into life on Earth dating back thousands of years.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateSep 14, 2009

JNCI news brief: Polyclonality of BRAF mutations in acquired melanocytic nevi

Researchers found BRAF mutations in all nevus cells but wild-type BRAF predominated in nine of 13 cases. Heterozygous patients showed simultaneous amplification of BRAF and a neighboring polymorphism, suggesting alternative melanocyte transformation mechanisms.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 14, 2009

Fred fades with a satellite exclamation point

NASA's Aqua satellite captured infrared and visible images of Fred's clouds stretching from northeast to southwest after declaring the storm 'dead' on September 12. The remnants of Fred are expected to produce intermittent shower and thunderstorm activity as it moves west-northwestward over the next couple of days.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 14, 2009

Iraq troops' PTSD rate as high as 35 percent, says Management Insights study

A new study by Management Insights suggests that Iraq veterans may be experiencing a PTSD rate of up to 35%, doubling the expected rate due to delayed onset and subsequent deployments. The Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences calls for increased mental health resources to care for returning troops.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManagement Science·DateSep 14, 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.

Texas A&M researcher shows possible link between 1918 El Niño and flu pandemic

A study published in the Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society suggests that the 1918 El Niño may have contributed to the severity of the flu pandemic. The research indicates that the El Niño was one of the strongest of the 20th century, and its impact on global weather patterns could have exacerbated the spread of the disease.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalBulletin of the American Meteorological Society·DateSep 14, 2009

Study identifies which children do not need CT scans after head trauma

A national study of over 42,000 children with head trauma found that one in five over 2 and nearly one-quarter under 2 did not need CT scans due to low-risk brain injury. The study provides guidelines for doctors to safely reduce CT use in these patients, aiming to minimize radiation exposure risk.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalThe Lancet·DateSep 14, 2009

Study examines stroke risk among patients undergoing cardiac surgery

A study examined stroke risk among patients undergoing cardiac surgery, finding that post-operative stroke occurred in approximately 2 percent. Patients with combined cardiac and carotid procedures had a significantly higher incidence of postoperative stroke, suggesting that these procedures should be avoided.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Neurology·DateSep 14, 2009