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Science News Archive 2010 - Page 179


Page 179 of 283

Combination therapy targets stubborn leukemia stem cells

Researchers discover a combination of drugs that effectively target stubborn leukemia stem cells, which often escape standard treatment and lead to disease relapse. The study supports clinical trials of HDACi in combination with tyrosine kinase inhibitors to eliminate leukemia stem cells in patients with CML.

SourceCell Press·JournalCancer Cell·DateMay 17, 2010
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.

The psychology of food cravings

Food cravings are intense, specific desires to eat certain foods, which can pose serious health risks. Research suggests that mental imagery is a key component of food cravings, taking up brain power and making it hard to focus on other tasks.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateMay 17, 2010

AIBS recognizes 2010 awardees during Washington, D.C., event

The American Institute of Biological Sciences recognizes scientists, educators, and organizations for their leadership and contributions to science. The LTER Network receives the Distinguished Scientist Award, while Duke University Professor Kathleen K. Smith receives the Outstanding Service Award for her work at NESCent.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·DateMay 17, 2010
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.

Falling in old age linked to altered blood flow in brain

A new study found that altered brain blood flow due to high blood pressure may lead to an increased risk of falls in elderly people. The research, published in Neurology, suggests that daily exercise and treatments for high blood pressure could be a new strategy for preventing falls.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·JournalNeurology·DateMay 17, 2010

UTIs becoming harder to treat

Researchers discovered an identical gene for antibiotic resistance in human and animal samples, suggesting its transfer between bacteria species. This finding poses a risk to the treatment of common human infections like UTIs, which are increasingly difficult to treat due to rising antibiotic resistance.

SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalJournal of Medical Microbiology·DateMay 17, 2010

Flower organ's cells make random decisions that determine size

A team of scientists led by Caltech biologists found that cell-cycle length and chromosome duplication without division play key roles in determining sepal cell sizes in Arabidopsis thaliana. This probabilistic development process results in unique patterns and proportions among sepals.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 17, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Protein power for Jack and the beanstalk

Researchers have isolated the ICR1 protein, which influences auxin distribution in plants, allowing breeders to manipulate plant cell wall composition and increase yields for biofuel production. This breakthrough has the potential to make fuel production more cost-effective by reducing lignin content and increasing cellulose levels.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalPLOS Biology·DateMay 17, 2010

Prehistoric fish extinction paved the way for modern vertebrates

A mass extinction of fish 360 million years ago led to the demise of dominant species and created a new world. The Hangenberg event marked a critical shift in vertebrate diversity, with few surviving species giving rise to modern vertebrates, including humans.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 17, 2010

Wrinkles are scarier than skin cancer for young tanners

Researchers found warning young women about the effects on their appearance caused a 35% drop in indoor tanning visits. The study suggested that focusing on appearance is more effective than just skin cancer warnings, and offering alternative options can help individuals change their behavior.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateMay 17, 2010

Health insurance status linked to mortality risk in PA ICUs

Adult patients without health insurance admitted to ICUs in Pennsylvania hospitals face a 21 percent increased risk of death compared to similar patients with private insurance. Uninsured ICU patients were also less likely to receive certain critical care procedures, including placement of central venous catheters and tracheostomies.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 17, 2010
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Retinoid use not associated with fracture risk

A large population-based study found that individuals treated with vitamin A analogues do not have an increased risk of fractures. The research, published in Archives of Dermatology, analyzed data from two nationwide registers and found no association between retinoid use and fracture risk at any skeletal site.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateMay 17, 2010

Physicists' findings about helium could lead to more accurate temperature

Physicists have made significant progress in understanding the properties of helium, a key element used in lasers, nuclear reactors, and space exploration. The new findings may enable more accurate measurements of temperature and pressure, benefiting fields such as low-temperature condensed matter physics and metrology.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMay 17, 2010

Newborn infants learn while asleep; study may lead to later disability tests

Researchers discovered that newborns can learn and respond to tones while asleep, a finding that could lead to early identification of infants at risk for developmental disorders such as autism and dyslexia. The study used EEG recordings to measure brain waves and found that 24 of 26 babies showed neural activity during sleep.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 17, 2010

'Fountain of youth' steroids could protect against heart disease

A previously-unknown ion channel in human blood vessels has been identified as a natural defence mechanism against heart disease. Pregnenolone sulphate, a 'fountain of youth' steroid, can trigger this protective effect in diseased and healthy blood vessels alike.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalCirculation Research·DateMay 17, 2010
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.

Unprecedented warming in East Africa's Lake Tanganyika

The lake's surface waters have reached the warmest temperature on record, affecting fish productivity and ecosystem. Climate change models predict further warming, exacerbating the decline of fish stocks and impacting the region's food security.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·JournalNature Geoscience·DateMay 17, 2010

June 2010 Geology and GSA Today highlights

Scientists have found evidence of neotectonic activity in the Alps using speleothems, a type of cave formation. The study also presents new constraints for dating shallow faults at the AlpTransit tunnel site in Switzerland.

SourceGeological Society of America·JournalGeology·DateMay 17, 2010

Well-tolerated radiotherapy provides longer life to patients with recurrent brain cancer

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University found that hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy significantly improves survival rates for patients with recurrent brain cancers, while minimizing side effects. The treatment provides longer survival without experiencing common chemotherapy and targeted therapy side effects.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMay 17, 2010
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.

AAPS announces 2010 NBC award winners

The American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS) honored outstanding researchers with awards for their contributions to biotechnology. The Excellence in Ligand-Binding Assay Award and Innovation in Biotechnology Awards recognized achievements in fields such as drug detection, vaccine development, and cancer treatment.

SourceAmerican Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists·DateMay 17, 2010

Extinct giant shark nursery discovered in Panama

Researchers found fossil teeth of Carcharocles megalodon, the world's largest shark species, in an ancient nursery in Panama. The teeth suggest young sharks spent their early years near the coast among mangroves.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMay 17, 2010

Good oral health is essential during pregnancy

Good oral health during pregnancy combats adverse effects of oral disease, preventing pain, infections, and nutrient deficiencies. Regular dental treatment can be safely performed at any time during pregnancy.

SourceAcademy of General Dentistry·JournalEuropean Journal of General Dentistry·DateMay 17, 2010

Using a pest's chemical signals to control it

ARS scientists have developed a biocontrol agent that uses neuropeptide mimics to kill aphids, potentially reducing pesticide use and environmental harm. The treatment was found to be highly effective in killing 90-100% of aphids within three days, comparable to insecticides on the market.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalPeptides·DateMay 17, 2010
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.

Sleep apnea may increase insulin resistance

Research reveals that intermittent hypoxia associated with sleep apnea can cause distinct drops in insulin sensitivity in mice. This finding suggests that sleep apnea may increase the risk of developing metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 17, 2010

Are invasives bad? Not always, say Brown researchers

The Asian shore crab has found a hospitable niche in its new environment, coexisting with native species in the cobbled beach ecosystem. The cordgrass-ribbed mussel environment provides a stable habitat for the crabs, allowing them to thrive without crowding out native species.

SourceBrown University·JournalEcology·DateMay 17, 2010

Art of Science 2010 online gallery launches

The Art of Science 2010 exhibition features breathtaking images created by Princeton researchers, exploring the beauty in scientific inquiry. The competition attracted top talent, with cash prizes awarded to first, second, and third place winners for their visually stunning entries.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·DateMay 17, 2010

Cochlear implants slightly less beneficial in older patients

A study found cochlear implants slightly benefit older adults, but not as much as younger patients. The results suggest that older patients may experience a prolonged adaptation phase and have inherent limitations in processing high-rate stimulation paradigms.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateMay 17, 2010
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Kids understand the relationship between humans and other animals

A new study challenges the long-held assumption that children adopt an anthropocentric perspective on human-animal relationships from birth. Instead, research suggests that human-centered reasoning emerges around age 3 in urban children, reflecting their community's perspectives.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 17, 2010

World's biggest study on cell phones and brain cancer inconclusive

The Interphone International Study Group found no increase in brain cancer among users, but heavy users appeared at a higher risk. The study's inconclusive results were attributed to restricted access to participants and flawed ethics reviews.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalInternational Journal of Epidemiology·DateMay 17, 2010
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.

Argonne scientists reveal secret of nanoparticle crystallization in real time

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory discovered that nanoparticles can self-assemble into a crystal lattice with low defects when floating at a liquid-air interface. This process allows for two-dimensional crystallization over a longer time scale, enabling the formation of highly ordered phases.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateMay 17, 2010

Stem cells restore tissue affected by ALI

Researchers used clinical-grade human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) to treat ALI, restoring normal function of alveolar epithelial cells and reducing inflammatory cytokines. The study found that intravenous delivery of hMSCs was as effective as intrabronchial administration in repairing damaged lung tissue.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 17, 2010

Most patients survive common thyroid cancer regardless of treatment

A recent study found that most patients with localized papillary thyroid cancer can expect favorable outcomes without treatment. The 20-year survival rate for these patients is estimated to be around 97%, similar to those who received treatment. Clinicians and patients can feel comfortable considering observation as an option.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery·DateMay 17, 2010

JCI online early table of contents: May 17, 2010

Researchers identify GRP78 as key factor in mucormycosis pathogenesis, providing new avenue for therapeutics development. PET probes detect distinct immune cell populations, suggesting wider use for immune modulating therapies.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 17, 2010

Kidney function and damage markers predict mortality risk

A new study published in The Lancet found that common blood tests for kidney function and urine protein levels can predict mortality risk. People with high levels of albumin in their urine were at a higher risk of mortality, with an increased risk of nearly 50% at certain thresholds.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalThe Lancet·DateMay 17, 2010
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.

Focusing on appearance may reduce tanning in young women

A study found that focusing on the negative effects of indoor tanning on appearance can reduce tanning behavior in young women, even those motivated by health concerns. The appearance-focused booklet also showed promise in reducing tanning behaviors among those with pathological motives for tanning.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Dermatology·DateMay 17, 2010

NASA, Google data show North Korea logging in protected area

A Purdue University researcher used NASA satellite data and Google Earth to detect changes in North Korea's Mount Paekdu Biosphere Reserve, finding that up to 75% of the forest had been removed through extensive logging. This has raised concerns over biodiversity loss and habitat destruction in the region.

SourcePurdue University·JournalBiological Conservation·DateMay 17, 2010

3 new monitor lizards from the Philippines identified

The discovery of three new Philippine monitor lizard species and a new subspecies sheds light on the immense biodiversity of these giant reptiles in the region. The study highlights the importance of museum collections and the need for continued research to recognize and name all species, emphasizing the global taxonomy crisis.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalZootaxa·DateMay 17, 2010
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.

Euthanasia and the use of end-of-life drugs without explicit request

A Belgian-Dutch study found that the use of life-ending drugs without explicit patient request occurred in 1.8% of deaths in Flemish Belgium. The majority of these cases involved elderly patients or those in irreversible comas, with discussion with families and healthcare professionals often present.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 17, 2010

When plants attract bugs, it may be their own fault

A recent study at the University of Illinois found that some impatiens plant varieties are more attractive to Western flower thrips than others. The researchers discovered that the Dazzler White variety emits volatile compounds that attract thrips, while the Cajun Carmine variety does not.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateMay 17, 2010

A more active lifestyle crucial for day-to-day function in COPD patients

Research suggests that COPD patients who engage in higher amounts of daily physical activity have better functional exercise tolerance. Increasing normal daily activities like walking or gardening may be more beneficial than formal exercise training. This approach aims to promote a more active lifestyle and improve long-term function.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 16, 2010
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.

Control of cell movement with light accomplished in living organisms

A new technique developed by UNC researchers uses light to manipulate protein behavior in cells, enabling precise control of cell movement. This discovery has significant implications for understanding embryonic development, nerve regeneration, and cancer metastasis.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMay 16, 2010

High-fat meals a no-no for asthma patients

Research suggests that consuming high-fat meals can lead to increased airway neutrophils and TLR4 mRNA gene expression, impairing the response to asthma medication Ventolin. High-fat intake may play a role in managing asthma by reducing inflammation and improving lung function.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 16, 2010

Estrogen may reduce airway constriction in women patients with asthma

Estrogen has been found to decrease airway constriction and increase bronchodilation in human airway smooth muscle cells, particularly when combined with beta-agonists. This suggests that estrogen may be beneficial for women with asthma, and further research is needed to explore its potential as a treatment option.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 16, 2010

Long-term use of vitamin E may decrease COPD risk

A study published by the American Thoracic Society found that long-term vitamin E supplementation may decrease the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by about 10% in both smokers and non-smokers. Vitamin E may protect lung tissue from damage caused by free radicals, according to researchers.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 16, 2010
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.

Resilience factor low in depression, protects mice from stress

Researchers found that the deltaFosB gene regulator protects against depression by boosting neurons' activity when glutamate binds to AMPA receptors. Boosting deltaFosB calms neurons, enabling individuals to pursue goal-directed behavior despite stress.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Mental Health·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateMay 16, 2010

Higher blood pressure found in people living in urban areas

A study by the University of Duisburg-Essen found that people living in polluted urban areas experience higher blood pressure due to exposure to fine and coarse particulate matter. This association remains even after accounting for other factors such as age, gender, smoking, and weight.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·DateMay 16, 2010