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Science News for March 4, 2010


Treatment of portal hypertensive pulmonary lesions induced by schistosomiasis

A Chinese research group evaluates the efficacy of a Calculus Bovis compound preparation in treating lung lesions caused by schistosomiasis. The study suggests that the compound has anti-inflammatory and regenerative effects, promoting tissue regeneration and reducing swelling.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMar 4, 2010

Emergency online communities

Research highlights the need for emergency online communities to address the psychological and social needs of people with disabilities during disasters. The study proposes three main objectives: developing coordinated online social networks, establishing adequate infrastructure, and conducting emergency training and simulation.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Emergency Management·DateMar 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.

Mussels -- material artists with grip

Researchers have discovered that the byssal cuticle of mussels is a protein-based polymeric scaffold stabilized by dopa-iron complexes, enabling its unique hardness and extensibility. The cuticle's mechanical behavior allows it to dissipate energy from crashing waves while resisting abrasive damage.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateMar 4, 2010

Acupuncture may relieve joint pain caused by some breast cancer treatments

A study led by Columbia University Irving Medical Center researchers found that acupuncture significantly improved joint pain and stiffness in breast cancer patients undergoing aromatase inhibitor therapy. The treatment reduced pain severity and improved physical well-being.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMar 4, 2010

Bacterial balance that keeps us healthy

Researchers at EMBL discover a reference gene set for the human gut microbiome, cataloging 3.3 million microbial genes and shedding light on their role in maintaining health. This breakthrough enables non-invasive stool samples to be used as a measure of health, potentially leading to new treatments.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalNature·DateMar 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.

Stress -- don't let it grind you down

Researchers found stress and poor coping mechanisms are common among people who grind their teeth at night. Stress has been implicated in the development of sleep bruxism, which can lead to tooth wear, sensitivity, and muscle pain.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalHead & Face Medicine·DateMar 4, 2010

Theory of single stem cell for blood components challenged

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine report that hematopoietic stem cell subtypes exist and act as previously thought, contradicting the idea of a single stem cell giving rise to all types of blood cells. The study reveals distinct populations of stem cells over time, with implications for treatment.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateMar 4, 2010

Surrounded by Science Summit

The CAISE Informal Science Education Summit brings together professionals to discuss critical issues impacting the field, including infrastructure, policies, and learning outcomes. Attendees will explore emerging trends and share knowledge across disciplines to strengthen the collective community.

SourceCenter for Advancement of Informal Science Education·DateMar 4, 2010

Trapping sunlight with silicon nanowires

Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have developed a method to increase light-trapping in solar cells by using vertical arrays of silicon nanowires. This approach can potentially achieve higher efficiencies and lower costs, making it an attractive candidate for large-scale solar energy production.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 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.

Rush to develop stock markets has huge downside

The global rush to develop modern financial institutions, including stock markets, has had a negative impact on the economy. In many countries, markets were created without a solid foundation, leading to disastrous outcomes.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalAcademy of Management Journal·DateMar 4, 2010

Asteroid killed off the dinosaurs, says international scientific panel

A panel of international experts confirms that an asteroid collision caused the Cretaceous-Tertiary mass extinction, which killed off the dinosaurs and over half of Earth's species. The Chicxulub asteroid impact triggered a global winter, causing widespread destruction and paving the way for mammals to dominate the planet.

SourceImperial College London·JournalScience·DateMar 4, 2010

American Society for Microbiology honors Caroline S. Harwood

Harwood's discovery of the genes and enzymes involved in lignin degradation has major implications for environmental pollution and carbon cycling. Her work on light-driven nitrogenase processes also holds promise for sustainable energy production.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateMar 4, 2010

Anti-hypertensive drugs to enhance esophageal contraction

Research found atenolol increases lower esophageal sphincter pressure and peristaltic contractions, while nifedipine decreases them. Atenolol may prevent GERD development, while nifedipine treatment could increase reflux risk.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMar 4, 2010
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Brain scans could be marketing tool of the future

A new generation of marketers may use advanced brain scanning tools to test product appeal before it's designed. This 'neuromarketing' approach could provide affordable insights into customer decision-making, but raises ethical considerations.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Reviews Neuroscience·DateMar 4, 2010

Loss of enzyme reduces neural activity in Angelman syndrome

Researchers at Harvard Medical School have discovered that the loss of Ube3A enzyme disrupts the brain's ability to fine-tune neuronal connections, leading to developmental deficits in Angelman syndrome. This finding also suggests a connection between Ube3A and autism spectrum disorders, paving the way for new therapeutic targets.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalCell·DateMar 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.

IU study finds no consensus in definitions of 'had sex'

A new IU study found that a representative sample of 18- to 96-year-olds had varying definitions of 'had sex', with 30% not considering oral sex as sex. The study highlights the need for specific language when discussing sex, affecting medical advice and health education efforts.

SourceIndiana University·JournalSexual Health·DateMar 4, 2010

What does the social sciences do for me?

The ESRC Festival of Social Science showcases how research impacts our lives, with events on social marketing, family policy, and consuming nature. The festival features over 130 events across the UK, ranging from lectures to debates and performances.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateMar 4, 2010

Therapeutic effect of worm-derived proteins on experimental colitis

A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that worm-derived proteins attenuate intestinal inflammation and normalize gastrointestinal motility disturbances in mice with colitis. The results suggest that worm proteins may provide an attractive option for managing gastrointestinal inflammation in IBD patients.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMar 4, 2010

Study identifies key cause of chronic leukemia progression

A study published in Cell reveals that loss of the molecule miR-328 is essential for progression from chronic to blast crisis phase in chronic myeloid leukemia. Maintaining this microRNA level may represent a new treatment strategy for CML blast crisis patients.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalCell·DateMar 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.

New study shows teens who drink 100 percent fruit juice have more nutritious diets overall

A new study published in the American Journal of Health Promotion shows that teenagers who consume 100% fruit juice have a more nutrient-dense diet compared to non-consumers. The study found lower intakes of total dietary fat and saturated fat, as well as higher intakes of key nutrients like Vitamins C and B6, folate, potassium, and iron.

SourceKellen Communications·JournalAmerican Journal of Health Promotion·DateMar 4, 2010

Endoscopy-based early enterostomy closure

A study published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology found that early enterostomy closure via endoscopy significantly reduces hospital stay duration and stoma closure time. The researchers used endoscopic examination to determine optimal closure timing, concluding it's a useful predictor for this procedure.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMar 4, 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.

Generation 2012: What have the Olympics ever done for us?

A community digital storytelling project, Generation 2012 gives young Londoners a platform to share their experiences and hopes for the Olympics. The project explores the role of sport in multicultural societies and provides insight into the attitudes and aspirations of young Londoners.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateMar 4, 2010

Study: Arctic seabed methane stores destabilizing, venting

A research team led by University of Alaska Fairbanks scientists found that the East Siberian Arctic Shelf is leaking large amounts of methane into the atmosphere, comparable to the entire world's oceans. The release of methane from this region could trigger abrupt climate warming due to its potency as a greenhouse gas.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalScience·DateMar 4, 2010

Experts reaffirm asteroid impact caused mass extinction

The asteroid impact hypothesis has gained overwhelming acceptance within the scientific community, and new evidence from ocean drilling and continental sites confirms its validity. The Chicxulub impact in Mexico is believed to have caused an abrupt and major decrease in productivity and species diversity at the K-Pg boundary.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScience·DateMar 4, 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.

Call forwarding: New NIST procedure could speed cell phone testing

Researchers at NIST have developed a new method for simulating wireless signal environments, reducing the time required for testing cellular phones by hours. The new technique uses a reverberation chamber to replicate complex real-world environments, enabling faster and more accurate design and test of wireless equipment.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalIEEE Antennas and Wireless Propagation Letters·DateMar 4, 2010

Queen's spearheads £1M international research effort into liver fluke

A new vaccine for liver fluke is being developed through a £1 million international research effort led by Queen's University Belfast. The parasite causes significant losses in the livestock industry, resulting in billions of pounds in economic losses each year. Scientists will work with partners in India and Wales to uncover an effect...

SourceQueen's University Belfast·DateMar 4, 2010

Exotic antimatter detected at Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider

An international team of scientists has discovered the most massive antinucleus ever detected at RHIC's STAR detector, containing an antiproton, antineutron, and anti-Lambda particle. The findings have significant implications for models of neutron stars and may help elucidate fundamental asymmetries in the early universe.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·DateMar 4, 2010

Groundbreaking research to find vaccine for hepatitis C

Researchers at the South West Liver Unit are working on a groundbreaking project to find a vaccine for Hepatitis C. They have identified a group of people who were naturally immune to the disease and are studying how their white blood cells interact with liver cells and the body's immune system.

SourceThe Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry·DateMar 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.

Genealogical tourism redefining leisure travel market, professor says

A growing trend in vacation travel, genealogical tourism provides authentic experiences, allowing individuals to feel connected to their past and explore their identities. The study highlights the importance of this movement, driven by contemporary tourists' preference for meaningful experiences over relaxation.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Travel Research·DateMar 4, 2010

Creating a dream breed

A Spanish company, Isidro De La Cal-Fresco, has developed a breeding method for the blackspot seabream using EUREKA funding. They have created a commercial diet, Besugo Power, which helps fish grow quicker and healthier, making it possible to produce the fish at a competitive price.

SourceEUREKA·DateMar 4, 2010

CT-scan screening for LAM in women with collapsed lung is cost-effective

Researchers found that high-resolution CT-scans are the most cost-effective strategy to screen for lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) in non-smoking women between 25-54 with collapsed lung. Screening can identify LAM earlier, improving quality of life and allowing for early treatment and clinical trial enrollment.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 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.

Colorectal cancer in China

A study published in World Journal of Gastroenterology found that the mean age of colorectal cancer in China increased across four regions, with East Guangdong having the highest mean age. The anatomic distribution, histological type, and differentiation type also varied significantly between regions.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMar 4, 2010

Intense war news reduces ability to remember ads

A new study found that intense war news reduces ad recall in viewers, regardless of their political beliefs. However, supporters of the war were more likely to remember ads when exposed to less intense programming.

SourceOregon State University·JournalJournal of Current Issues & Research in Advertising·DateMar 4, 2010

A novel in vitro model for light-induced wound healing

A team of researchers has created a new in vitro model for studying the effects of light on wound healing. They found that exposure to blue-violet light increases mitochondrial activity, cell proliferation, and growth factor secretion in human epidermal keratinocytes. These results suggest that blue light may be useful in enhancing epi...

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateMar 4, 2010
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.

How to evaluate hemodynamics of gastric varices effectively?

Researchers used MDCTPV to study the collateral circulation of gastric varices, finding that most afferent veins originated from the left gastric vein. The study concludes that MDCTPV provides valuable reference for clinicians in the endoscopic and surgical treatment of gastric variceal bleeding.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMar 4, 2010

30 years later, what killed the dinosaurs is revisited

A team of researchers, including UC San Diego's Richard Norris, presents new evidence linking an asteroid impact to the mass extinction that wiped out dinosaurs and other organisms 65.5 million years ago. The study highlights a unique layer of debris in deep-sea sediments that correlates with abrupt environmental changes.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateMar 4, 2010

Researchers create atlas of transcription factor combinations

The study provides a comprehensive atlas of transcription factor combinations, indicating which factors can combine to determine cell fate. The researchers identified nearly 1,000 different pairs of TF proteins that can be wired together, representing the blueprint of all possible combinations that direct gene expression in mammals.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalCell·DateMar 4, 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.

Kent State researchers play lead role in significant new physics discovery

A team of international researchers led by Kent State University's Declan Keane and Jinhui Chen discovered the most massive antinucleus to date, containing an antiproton, antineutron, and anti-Lambda particle. The finding opens new dimensions in physics research, particularly in addressing the asymmetry between matter and antimatter.

SourceKent State University·JournalScience·DateMar 4, 2010

Genetic cause discovered for rare bleeding disorder

The discovery reveals QPD is caused by an extra copy of the PLAU gene, leading to overproduction of an enzyme that accelerates blood clot breakdown. This breakthrough genetic test will uncover many more cases and provide fundamental insights into how the uPA gene is controlled.

SourceMcMaster University·DateMar 4, 2010
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.

Henry Ford Hospital study shows link between vitamin D, skin cancer

A recent study by Henry Ford Hospital has found a significant link between elevated vitamin D levels and basal cell carcinoma, the most common form of skin cancer. The researchers discovered that cancerous tissue showed a 10-fold increase in vitamin D enzyme levels and a two-fold increase in protein levels compared to normal skin tissue.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateMar 4, 2010

Different signaling pathways of cholangiocarcinoma

Research reveals that HGF-induced invasion of cholangiocarcinoma is mediated by distinct signaling pathways, with PI3K pathway being common and ERK1/2 playing a key role depending on activation duration. This understanding may aid in identifying therapeutic targets for individual patients.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMar 4, 2010

Assessing antibiotic breakdown in manure

Researchers found that oxytetracycline breaks down more quickly in cattle manure than in soil, due to its higher organic material and moisture content. Temperature and moisture levels also play a crucial role in degradation rates.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateMar 4, 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.

Lava likely made river-like channel on Mars

Researchers find evidence that a Martian channel was formed by lava flows, contradicting previous theories that suggested water carving. The discovery has implications for the geological evolution of Mars and our understanding of its potential for life.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 4, 2010

Novel criteria to differentiate fibrosis from steatohepatitis

Researchers identified novel bedside criteria to distinguish between cirrhosis and inflammation in patients with ALD. A blood test can exclude active inflammation before using transient elastography for liver fibrosis assessment.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateMar 4, 2010

ARSC included in $45 million Defense Department award

The Arctic Region Supercomputing Center at the University of Alaska Fairbanks has acquired new supercomputing resources under a $45 million award from the U.S. Department of Defense. The new Cray supercomputer will be installed later this year and feature enhanced system software to boost performance and productivity.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·DateMar 4, 2010

New evidence hints at global glaciation 716.5 million years ago

Researchers found evidence of tropical sea ice 716.5 million years ago, supporting the theory that Earth experienced a 'snowball Earth' event with ice covering all latitudes. This discovery provides insight into the survival of eukaryotic life during this period.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateMar 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.

'Match' Madness: Picking upsets a losing strategy

Research from Indiana University and the University of Wyoming found that picking lower-seed winners is a good strategy, while upsets are no better than chance. Experts advise against relying on intuition or favorite colors, as this approach often leads to sabotaging efforts.

SourceIndiana University·JournalJournal of Applied Social Psychology·DateMar 4, 2010

Biggest, deepest crater exposes hidden, ancient moon

Asteroid impacts over billions of years have left the Moon with a pockmarked surface, but a new crater may expose a portion of the lower crust. The Apollo Basin, formed by a smaller asteroid impact, measures 300 miles across and is believed to reveal the lunar crust's early history.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateMar 4, 2010

Genetic variant offers protection against TB and leprosy

A new genetic variant has been identified that offers protection against tuberculosis (TB) and leprosy. This discovery opens up potential new targets for drug development, particularly for improving treatment schedules for patients with these diseases.

SourceWellcome Trust·JournalCell·DateMar 4, 2010

Scientists find new form of prion disease that damages brain arteries

Scientists have discovered a new form of prion disease that causes brain artery damage, distinct from the typical sponge-like brain deterioration. The study may hold clues for treating Alzheimer's disease, as researchers found that removing a specific anchor from prion protein could prevent plaque accumulation and block fluid drainage.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalPLOS Pathogens·DateMar 4, 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.

Protein shown to be natural inhibitor of aging in fruit fly model

A team of scientists at UC San Diego identified a protein called Sestrin as a natural inhibitor of aging and age-related pathologies in fruit flies. Sestrin regulates the AMP-dependent protein kinase (AMPK) and Target of Rapamycin (TOR) signaling pathway, which controls aging and metabolism.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateMar 4, 2010

Can corn be taught to fix its own nitrogen?

Researchers are exploring the use of synthetic biology to enable corn plants to fix their own nitrogen, eliminating the need for fertilizers. This technology has the potential to increase crop yields while reducing environmental degradation and promoting sustainable agriculture.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateMar 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.

Possible vaccine for mesothelioma proven safe

A new vaccine has been proven safe and effective in treating mesothelioma, a rare cancer associated with asbestos exposure. The vaccine uses the patient's own dendritic cells to induce a T-cell response against mesothelioma tumors.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 4, 2010

Experimental vaccine protects monkeys against chikungunya

Researchers have developed an experimental vaccine for chikungunya virus, which has already infected millions of people in Asia, Africa, and Europe. The vaccine, composed of virus-like particles, successfully protected monkeys from infection.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalNature Medicine·DateMar 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.

Exotic flowers help bees stay busy in winter

The buff-tailed bumblebee's unique behavior allows it to collect nectar from exotic winter-flowering plants like strawberry trees and Mahonia, raising an extra generation of workers.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 4, 2010

Mouse work: New insights on a fundamental DNA repair mechanism

Researchers confirm NEIL3 as a functional DNA glycosylase in both vitro and in vivo studies. The protein effectively removes damaged bases from DNA, particularly the FapyGua lesion, which may cause dangerous mutations.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 4, 2010