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Science News for January 4, 2010


MyoD helps stem cells proliferate in response to muscle injury

Researchers found that MyoD activates CDC6 expression to promote rapid proliferation of muscle stem cells. The study suggests a new mechanism for muscle regeneration and highlights the importance of transcription factors in controlling cell cycle progression.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJan 4, 2010

The PARASOL Satellite moving off the A-Train's track

The PARASOL satellite has been maneuvered to leave its position within the A-Train constellation, a group of five NASA satellites orbiting the Earth in close proximity. The move will enable data sharing with other satellites while leaving a temporary data gap that will be filled by Glory's launch in 2010.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 4, 2010

A trip to the candy store might help ward off rare, but deadly infections

Researchers found that glycyrrhizin improves the ability of damaged skin to produce antimicrobial peptides, which help prevent bacterial growth and infections. The study suggests that this compound could lead to lower death rates associated with burn-related infections.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalJournal of Leukocyte Biology·DateJan 4, 2010

Changes needed to ensure quality of new orthopedic surgeons

A recent study by researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery identifies four key areas of need for orthopedic training programs: addressing compromised learning experiences due to work-hour restrictions, developing core knowledge with specific goals, establishing common benchmarks for program effectiveness, and adapting to generationa...

SourceHospital for Special Surgery·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateJan 4, 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.

Virus may chauffeur useful 'packages' into plants

Scientists have discovered that plant viruses can be harnessed to carry genetic information into plant cells, which could lead to the development of crops with desirable traits. By stabilizing viral vector genes, researchers hope to improve crop yields and resistance.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalVirology·DateJan 4, 2010

Protein central to being male plays key role in wound healing

The androgen receptor, crucial for male hormones like testosterone, also plays a significant role in the body's ability to heal wounds. Blocking this receptor accelerates wound healing by reducing inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 4, 2010

Natural compound blocks hepatitis C infection

Researchers have identified two cellular proteins that are important factors in hepatitis C virus infection. The natural compound Quercetin inhibits the synthesis of these proteins, significantly inhibiting viral infection in tissue culture. A Phase I clinical trial will be launched to determine if the compound is safe and effective.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalHepatology·DateJan 4, 2010
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Reducing some water flow rates may bring environmental gains

A study by C. Rhett Jackson and Catherine M. Pringle found that reducing water flow rates can create ecological benefits, such as protecting endangered species and mitigating pollution effects. However, restoring natural flows can also lead to detrimental changes in vegetation that harm animals.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateJan 4, 2010

Targeting cancerous vessels

Scientists discovered that blocking delta-catenin expression disrupts inflammation-induced angiogenesis in tumors and wounds. The findings suggest that delta-catenin may be a key player in cancer progression.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJan 4, 2010
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.

Analysis of microbes, immune response featured in Cold Spring Harbor Protocols

A new protocol for fluorescence in situ hybridization allows phylogenetic identification of microorganisms in environmental samples. Meanwhile, a dual-color ELISPOT assay enables simultaneous detection of IL-2 and IFN-γ secreting T cells, promising to monitor immune responses to certain infectious agents.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalCold Spring Harbor Protocols·DateJan 4, 2010

New research findings may help stop age-related macular degeneration at the molecular level

Scientists have discovered a pivotal role for two key proteins in preventing the onset of age-related macular degeneration. The study found that one protein binds to another to reduce damage caused by inflammation, and that genetic variations can make people more vulnerable to eye damage.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 4, 2010

New study finds low mortality risk following knee and hip replacement

A new study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery found that the risk of early postoperative mortality following knee and hip replacement surgeries is slightly increased for the first 26 days after surgery. However, the risk of mortality drops to negligible levels 26 days post-op. The study included data from over 188,000 ...

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateJan 4, 2010

Scientists target East Coast rocks for CO2 storage

Researchers propose using buried volcanic rocks to store carbon dioxide emitted by power plants, with potential sites identified off northern New Jersey, Long Island and Massachusetts. The study suggests that deep burial in these basalt formations could help reduce risks of leaks.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 4, 2010
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.

Sexual responses differ for women and men, new Queen's study shows

A meta-analysis of 134 studies involving over 3,400 participants found that men's brain and body responses were more aligned during sexual arousal. In contrast, women's mind-body responses were less consistent. The study suggests significant gender differences in how people experience and respond to sexual stimuli.

SourceQueen's University·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·DateJan 4, 2010

Mobile homes provide satisfaction, drawbacks for rural Pennsylvania

Despite quality issues and social stigma, a majority of Pennsylvania's mobile home residents are satisfied with their homes. The primary benefit of living in a mobile home is affordability, according to Penn State researchers who found that 48% of respondents cited affordability as a major advantage.

SourcePenn State·JournalApplied Geography·DateJan 4, 2010

JCI online early table of contents: Jan. 4, 2009

Researchers identified a strategy to target human breast cancer stem cells by blocking the protein CXCR1. The approach selectively depleted cancer stem cells in mice xenotransplanted with human breast cancer cells, leading to reduced tumor growth and metastasis. This finding provides hope for women with breast cancer.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 4, 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.

New SBI and ACR recommendations suggest breast cancer screening should begin at age 40

The new SBI and ACR recommendations suggest that breast cancer screening should begin at age 40, with annual screening recommended for average-risk patients. High-risk patients may start screening as early as age 30. The guidelines aim to reduce mortality rates from breast cancer through earlier detection.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateJan 4, 2010

A single atom controls motility required for bacterial infection

Researchers at UNC have discovered a single calcium atom controls bacterial motility required for infection. By blocking this site, the bacteria can't move, stopping its ability to establish infections like meningitis. The finding identifies a key step in bacterial infection and could lead to new drug targets.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 4, 2010

Few Americans with major depression receive adequate treatment

A study found that many Americans with major depression do not receive adequate treatment, with racial and ethnic groups facing disparities. Psychotherapy is more commonly used than pharmacotherapy, but individuals with specific ethnic backgrounds have lower odds of receiving concordant care.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateJan 4, 2010

Smoking cessation may actually increase risk of developing type 2 diabetes

Researchers found that people who quit smoking have a 70% increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the first six years without cigarettes compared to non-smokers. Weight gain after quitting is suspected to be the cause of this increased risk, which returns to normal after 10 years.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 4, 2010
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Finally, an excuse for pregnant women to eat bacon and eggs

A new study published in the FASEB Journal shows that choline plays a critical role in fetal brain development, particularly in regions associated with memory. Choline is found in meats like bacon and eggs.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJan 4, 2010

Extremity war injuries: More research is needed

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons emphasizes the need for better care for extremity war injuries, citing challenges in research, host nation care, and disaster preparedness. The symposium highlighted the importance of funding more research to improve treatment outcomes.

SourceAmerican Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·JournalJournal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons·DateJan 4, 2010

Can kitchen spoons be dangerous spoons?

A new Cornell study reveals that using kitchen spoons to measure liquid medicine can lead to significant inaccuracies. Participants under-dosed by an average of 8%, while those using larger spoons over-dosed by 12%. Experts recommend using precise measuring devices instead.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 4, 2010

Women's bodies and minds agree less than men's on what's sexy

A meta-analysis of 134 studies involving over 3,400 participants found that men's subjective and physiological measures of sexual arousal were more closely matched than women's. The researchers identified two methodological differences - the type of stimuli and timing of assessment - that may contribute to this gender difference.

SourceSpringer·JournalArchives of Sexual Behavior·DateJan 4, 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.

New finding may help baby boomers get buff

A study published in the FASEB Journal shows that free radicals cause mitochondrial damage in muscle cells, resulting in accelerated age-related muscle loss. Researchers hope to develop new treatments to slow or limit this process.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJan 4, 2010

New ALS drug slips through telling 'Phase II' clinical trials

A new ALS drug, talampanel, has shown some ability to slow the loss of major daily life activities such as speaking, walking and dressing. The study found that talampanel slowed progression of ALS by 30 percent, according to the ALS Functional Rating Scale.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalAmyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis·DateJan 4, 2010

New key factor identified in the development of Alzheimer's disease

A new study identifies βCTF, a small protein found in APP, as a novel factor contributing to Alzheimer's disease-related endosome abnormalities. Elevated levels of βCTF cause specific pattern of endosome defects similar to brain cells in Alzheimer's disease.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 4, 2010

Giant intergalactic gas stream longer than thought

Astronomers have discovered a giant stream of gas flowing from neighboring galaxies around the Milky Way is more than 40% longer and 2.5 billion years older than previously known, according to new radio observations.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateJan 4, 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.

Pain management failing as fears of prescription drug abuse rise

Health consumers must become informed advocates for comprehensive pain treatment as physicians struggle with inadequate training and fear of prescription drug abuse. Long-term solutions require education, responsibility, and collaboration among all parties involved.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Pain & Palliative Care Pharmacotherapy·DateJan 4, 2010

Embargoed news from Annals of Internal Medicine

Research reveals that quitting smoking can increase type 2 diabetes risk in the short term due to weight gain. Additionally, spoon size affects dosing accuracy with liquid medicine, leading to errors. The latest adult immunization schedule emphasizes HPV and influenza vaccinations, while antiretroviral adherence is linked to lower heal...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJan 4, 2010

Gladstone scientists identify target that may inhibit HIV infectivity

Researchers at the Gladstone Institutes have discovered surfen, a small molecule that inhibits HIV's ability to bind to cells and enhance infection. The discovery could lead to new treatments for HIV, potentially reducing transmission rates through sexual contact.

SourceGladstone Institutes·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 4, 2010
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.

Depleting breast cancer-initiating cells by targeting the protein CXCR1

A recent study identifies CXCR1 as a crucial protein in targeting human breast cancer stem cells. Inhibiting this protein selectively depletes the cancer stem cell population, leading to reduced tumor growth and metastasis. The findings suggest that strategies targeting CXCR1 may offer a promising approach for treating breast cancer.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 4, 2010

Nurse home visitation program reduces girls' potential criminality later in life

A nurse home visitation program has been shown to reduce the likelihood of girls entering the criminal justice system by age 19, according to a recent study. The program, which focuses on promoting maternal health and caregiving skills during pregnancy and infancy, was found to have long-term benefits for these young women.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJan 4, 2010

Biodegradable particles can bypass mucus, release drugs over time

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have created biodegradable nanosized particles that can deliver sustained-release medication to patients with diseases like cystic fibrosis and cancer. The nanoparticles degrade over time into harmless components, overcoming a major barrier to aerosolized drug delivery.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 4, 2010

Clinical trial seeks to improve patient treatment for Crohn's disease

A clinical trial at the University of Western Ontario aims to improve patient treatment for Crohn's disease by evaluating a new combination therapy approach. The REACT study will compare conventional management strategies to a newer paradigm featuring early use of immunosuppression and anti-metabolites.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·DateJan 4, 2010
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.

How to build bone: Separate bone formation from bone destruction

In a study, oncostatin M was found to promote bone formation by blocking the production of a protein that inhibits bone growth when signaling through leukemia inhibitory factor receptor. This indicates the existence of a pathway for stimulating bone formation independently of bone destruction.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 4, 2010

Spectacular Mars images reveal evidence of ancient lakes

Researchers from Imperial College London and UCL found evidence of ancient lakes on Mars using NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter images. The study suggests that Mars had warm and wet periods approximately 3 billion years ago, potentially creating habitats suitable for microbial life.

SourceImperial College London·JournalGeology·DateJan 4, 2010

Eclipses yield first images of elusive iron line in the solar corona

Researchers observed the sun's outer atmosphere during eclipses, capturing the first images of the solar corona in a near-infrared emission line of highly ionized iron. The observations revealed localized regions of enhanced density and extended beyond three solar radii above the sun's surface.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 4, 2010

A silly pat on the head helps seniors remember daily med, study suggests

A study suggests that older adults can use unusual motor tasks, such as patting their heads, to reduce repetition errors in taking daily medications. The research found that participants who performed a complex motor task while taking their medication made significantly fewer mistakes than those who did not.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateJan 4, 2010

UC Davis researchers identify autism clusters in California

Researchers at UC Davis identified 10 locations in California with higher-than-expected autism incidence rates, primarily in areas with higher levels of parental education. The study found that children born to parents with more educational attainment were more likely to be diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalAutism Research·DateJan 4, 2010
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Refusing immunizations puts increases the risk of varicella illness in children

A recent study found that refusing immunizations increases the risk of varicella illness in children, with unvaccinated kids nine times more at risk. The study analyzed electronic health records of over 86,000 children and confirmed that vaccine refusal significantly raises the risk of infection.

SourceGolinHarris International·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJan 4, 2010

Childhood metabolic measurements may predict diabetes development years later

A study published in Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine found that childhood blood pressure, body mass index, and glucose levels can predict type 2 diabetes risk nine to 26 years later. Children with high systolic blood pressure, a high body mass index, or low HDL cholesterol are more likely to develop diabetes.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJan 4, 2010

Insect cells provide the key to alternative swine flu vaccination

Scientists in Vienna have developed a new technique using insect cells to produce vaccines for H1N1 'swine flu', which can meet the demand of a global flu pandemic. This method is faster than traditional egg-based production and offers a safe alternative with reduced biosafety issues.

SourceWiley·JournalBiotechnology Journal·DateJan 4, 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.

ALMA test sharpens vision of new observatory

The ALMA team successfully linked three antennas, correcting errors that can arise when using only two antennas, paving the way for precise, high-resolution imaging. The successful test shows that the completed ALMA system of 66 high-tech antennas will produce astronomical images of unprecedented quality.

SourceNational Radio Astronomy Observatory·DateJan 4, 2010

Thai hill farmers help preserve genetic diversity of rice

Research by Washington University in St. Louis shows that Thai hill farmers' traditional agriculture, including seed selection and exchange, influences the genetic diversity of their ancestral rice varieties. These local landraces provide a pool of traits that can improve crops worldwide.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 4, 2010

Pediatrics GI recommendations -- first step to guidelines for children with autism

The publication of consensus recommendations in Pediatrics marks an important step towards advancing physician awareness of unique challenges in the medical management of children with autism. The guidelines provide guidance on how current general pediatric standards of care can be adapted for children with ASD, highlighting the need f...

SourceAutism Speaks·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJan 4, 2010
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.

Experimental drug shows promise against brain, prostate cancers

Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have found that an experimental drug, imetelstat, blocks telomerase activity in isolated human cells and tumor-initiating cells from glioblastoma and prostate cancer patients. The drug shows promise in fighting the diseases by inhibiting telomerase activity.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJan 4, 2010

Head-to-head studies identify best treatment regimen for hepatitis C

Two head-to-head studies found that Peginterferon alpha-2a (PegIFNα2a) plus ribavirin (RBV) produces a significantly higher sustained virological response (SVR) rate than peginterferon alpha-2b (PegIFNα2b) plus RBV for patients with chronic hepatitis C. The SVR rates were 66% and 54% for PegIFNα2a and PegIFNα2b, respectively.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateJan 4, 2010

Refusing chickenpox vaccine associated with increased risk of disease

A study found that refusing the varicella vaccine is associated with a nine-fold increased risk of developing the disease in children. This finding suggests that declining vaccination rates could lead to an increase in the incidence of chickenpox and related complications.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateJan 4, 2010

Researchers develop 'nano cocktail' to target and kill tumors

A team of researchers developed a 'nano cocktail' consisting of two nanomaterials that work together to locate, adhere to, and kill cancerous tumors. The system uses gold nanorods to accumulate in tumors and then sends in a second nanoparticle type coated with a targeting molecule specific for the heat-treated tumor.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 4, 2010

Blocking inflammation receptor kills breast cancer stem cells, U-M study finds

A U-M study reveals that a specific receptor, CXCR1, triggers growth of breast cancer stem cells in response to inflammation and tissue damage. Researchers found that blocking this receptor using an existing anti-inflammatory drug repertaxin kills breast cancer stem cells and prevents metastasis in mice.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJan 4, 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.

Half of depressed Americans go untreated, finds UCLA/Wayne State study

A national survey found that only 21% of Americans with clinical depression receive adequate treatment, while half go untreated. Disparities in mental healthcare access persist, particularly for African Americans and Mexican Americans, who face significant barriers to care.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateJan 4, 2010