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Science News Archive January 2011 - Page 2


Page 2 of 22

Apoptotic mechanisms of octreotide on HepG2

The study found that octreotide induces caspase-mediated apoptotic pathway in HepG2 cells, supporting a receptor-mediated and mitochondrial-apoptotic pathway. This suggests that measurements of serum octreotide levels may be important for verifying optimal therapeutic drug concentrations.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateJan 31, 2011

Red Bull logo enough to shape consumer performance

A Boston College study found that Red Bull's brand identity affects consumers' behavior in video games, with some players speeding up and others crashing. The 'Red Bull effect' shows how non-conscious brand priming can shape consumer performance.

SourceBoston College·JournalJournal of Consumer Psychology·DateJan 31, 2011

Deaths reduced with cardiac resynchronization therapy

Cardiac resynchronization therapy significantly reduces mortality among patients with mildly symptomatic or advanced heart failure, improving long-term outcomes. The addition of CRT to optimal medical therapy or ICDs can be extended to a wider proportion of patients, benefiting the growing population affected by heart failure.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 31, 2011

T-regulatory lymphocytes in gastrointestinal cancer

Research suggests that Tregs are involved in immune evasion of tumors and may be used as disease markers for gastric cancer. However, further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateJan 31, 2011
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.

Computer-assisted diagnosis tools to aid pathologists

Researchers developed computer-assisted diagnosis tools to grade Follicular Lymphoma samples more accurately and efficiently. The tools use high-resolution images and machine learning algorithms to identify malignant regions and classify disease grades, promising faster and more accurate diagnoses.

SourceOhio Supercomputer Center·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·DateJan 31, 2011

Recalled ICD leads fail in women, youths most often

A multicenter study found that recalled Sprint Fidelis implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) leads failed at a higher rate in younger patients, women, and individuals with hereditary heart disease. However, the failure was not associated with death or serious injuries.

SourceMinneapolis Heart Institute Foundation·JournalCirculation·DateJan 31, 2011
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.

SRNL demonstrating low-energy remediation with patented microbes

Researchers at SRNL are using patented microbes to break down chlorinated solvents in contaminated groundwater. The MicroCED mixture has shown promise in transforming lethal chlorinated ethenes into safe end products, potentially offering a cheaper alternative to energy-intensive cleanup methods.

SourceDOE/Savannah River National Laboratory·DateJan 31, 2011

Scientists climb Mt. Everest to explain how hearts adapt and recover from low oxygen

Researchers studied physicians and scientists trekking to Mt. Everest Base Camp, finding extensive but reversible changes in heart function after exposure to low oxygen levels. The findings suggest that heart problems experienced by seriously ill patients may be reversible once oxygen levels are returned to normal.

SourceFederation of American Societies for Experimental Biology·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateJan 31, 2011

Food industry partnerships may carry risks

Partnerships with major food companies bring funding and support, but may obscure health messages. Health charities must tread carefully to avoid brand co-branding and maintain public health focus.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 31, 2011

Preventing GVHD by protecting gut stem cells

Researchers found that R-spondin1 reduces GVHD by protecting intestinal stem cells, which help regenerate damaged tissues and reduce inflammation. The study's results suggest a potential therapeutic approach for human bone marrow transplant patients.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateJan 31, 2011
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Success for social science in Europe

The Open Research Area Scheme in Europe has successfully funded joint projects addressing key social and economic issues like climate change, child welfare, and market uncertainty. Researchers will study public attitudes to climate change, critically review children's policies, and develop new forecasting methods for economic processes.

SourceEconomic & Social Research Council·DateJan 31, 2011

Newly decoded ant genomes provide clues on ant social life, pest control

The study provides insights into how ants develop into queens or workers, shedding light on invasion biology and potential pest control methods. Analysis of the Argentine and red harvester ant genomes suggests chemical modification of DNA may play a key role in this process.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 31, 2011
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.

Sex in pregnancy: A primer

Potential risks of sex in pregnancy include premature labour, pelvic inflammatory disease, and blood clots, but the evidence is often contradictory and limited. For low-risk women, frequent intercourse may increase the risk of premature labour, while restricted activity is recommended for those at high risk

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 31, 2011

Tracking the origins of speedy space particles

Researchers used NASA's THEMIS spacecraft to track energetic particles in Earth's magnetic atmosphere during a substorm, gaining insights into their origin and behavior. The study supports the betatron acceleration model, which explains how electrons gain energy from changing magnetic fields far from the reconnection site.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJan 31, 2011

MRI: An accurate method to evaluate iron overload

A new method using MRI T2*-weighted imaging is proposed for assessing iron overload in beta-thalassemic patients. The results indicate that serum ferritin levels are not reliable for estimating iron stores, making MRI a more accurate and non-invasive option.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateJan 31, 2011

Altered cell metabolism has role in brain tumor development

Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered that genetic mutations in brain tumors can alter their metabolism. This study found over 100 metabolites with altered concentrations in cells with the defective IDH1 or IDH2 genes, providing promising avenues for future research into new treatments.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 31, 2011
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Resolved to quit smoking?

A new study using brain scans found that neural reactions to pro-health messages can accurately predict smoking quit success. The researchers tested 28 heavy smokers and found that neural activity in the medial prefrontal cortex predicted behavior change, outperforming people's own self-reported estimates.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalHealth Psychology·DateJan 31, 2011

Hepatic vein thrombosis following liver resection

Recent research suggests that liver resection patients are at risk of developing hepatic vein thrombosis, which can lead to pulmonary embolism. The study reports two cases where thrombi formed in hepatic veins following surgery.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateJan 31, 2011

Study finds little decline in hepatitis C infections among injection drug users

A recent study found that despite a significant decline in HIV infection rates, new cases of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection have declined only slightly among injection drug users. The findings suggest that current prevention efforts must be intensified to reduce the risk of HCV infection, particularly among younger IDUs.

SourceInfectious Diseases Society of America·JournalThe Journal of Infectious Diseases·DateJan 31, 2011

Nanosilver: A new name -- well-known effects

Researchers have shown that nanosilver is not a new discovery but has been used for over 100 years to prevent bacterial growth. Nanoparticles have different properties than larger particles, making them more reactive and toxic to bacteria.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJan 31, 2011
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scripps Research scientists convert skin cells to beating heart cells

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute successfully converted adult skin cells into beating heart cells through a direct reprogramming strategy, bypassing the need for embryonic-like stem cells. This breakthrough discovery has the potential to lead to new treatments for diseases such as heart disease, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateJan 30, 2011

New transistors: An alternative to silicon and better than graphene

Researchers have discovered a new material, molybdenite, that can be used to make smaller and more energy-efficient electronic chips. Molybdenite has distinct advantages over traditional silicon or graphene for use in electronics applications.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJan 30, 2011

Metamaterials approach makes better satellite antennas

Scientists have successfully designed a new type of antenna liner using metamaterials, which can enhance performance and reduce mass, leading to lower costs and increased efficiency in communications satellites. The design has overcome previous limitations of narrow bandwidth and high loss, making it suitable for real-world applications.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 30, 2011
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.

A deficiency of dietary omega-3 may explain depressive behaviors

Researchers found that omega-3 deficient mice exhibited disturbed synaptic functions and emotional behaviors, including depression. The study suggests that chronic malnutrition during intrauterine development may influence synaptic activity involved in emotional behavior in adulthood.

SourceINSERM (Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale)·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 30, 2011

Researchers discover root cause of blood vessel damage in diabetes

A recent study by Washington University researchers discovered that fatty acid synthase and nitric oxide synthase enzymes interact in endothelial cells to cause blood vessel damage in diabetes. By understanding this mechanism, they hope to develop new treatments for vascular complications of the disease.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateJan 28, 2011

Researchers discover age of onset of puberty predicts adult osteoporosis risk

Researchers found that early puberty is associated with greater bone mass, while later puberty results in less, increasing the risk of fracture. This discovery has significant implications for adolescence growth and development, highlighting the importance of timing in shaping adult bone health.

SourceChildren's Hospital Los Angeles·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateJan 28, 2011

Voice-saver: Light therapy for early-stage laryngeal cancer

A study from Henry Ford Hospital found that photodynamic therapy can preserve vocal cord function in patients with early-stage laryngeal cancer. The treatment, which uses a powerful laser and light-activated drug, showed consistent trends toward normal vocal cord vibration over several weeks and months.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateJan 28, 2011
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.

Novel surgery removes rare tumor, rebuilds trachea

A team of surgeons at Henry Ford Hospital has successfully removed a rare malignant immature teratoma from an adult's trachea and rebuilt the airway using tissue and bone from the patient's arm. The patient is now able to speak and swallow normally, with only a temporary tracheostomy tube used for breathing assistance.

SourceHenry Ford Health·DateJan 28, 2011

Vitamin D deficiency alters lung growth and decreases lung function

Researchers found that vitamin D-deficient mice had reduced lung volume, lower airway resistance, and smaller lungs compared to control mice. The study suggests a potential link between vitamin D deficiency and obstructive lung disease, highlighting the need for future studies on prevention and treatment strategies.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateJan 28, 2011

'Air laser' may sniff bombs, pollutants from a distance

Researchers at Princeton University developed an air laser that can detect hidden bombs, pollutants, and greenhouse gases from afar. The new technique uses an ultraviolet laser pulse to generate an entirely new beam of light that interacts with molecules in the air, providing a powerful tool for remote measurements.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalScience·DateJan 28, 2011
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.

Pre-surgical stress management boosts immune function, lowers mood disturbance in prostate cancer patients

A new UT MD Anderson study finds that brief pre-surgery stress management training can improve immune outcomes and lower mood disturbances in men with early-stage prostate cancer. The study's results suggest that managing stress has biological as well as psychological benefits, which may have an effect on aspects of disease.

SourceUniversity of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateJan 28, 2011

DNA caught rock 'n rollin'

Researchers at University of Michigan and University of California, Irvine discover DNA's building blocks 'rock and roll,' forming alternative structures with Hoogsteen base pairs. These fleeting states contain new layers of information stored in the genetic code, shedding light on critical interactions between DNA and proteins.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature·DateJan 28, 2011

Antibiotic offers potential for anti-cancer activity

Researchers at Indiana University School of Medicine have discovered a potential new anti-cancer treatment using the antibiotic tautomycetin, which targets the cancer-causing enzyme SHP2. This finding offers hope for developing effective treatments against various types of leukemia and solid tumors.

SourceIndiana University School of Medicine·JournalChemistry & Biology·DateJan 28, 2011
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Seeing kidney injury, as it happens

A team of researchers has created a 'reporter mouse' that can detect kidney damage in real-time by generating light, offering a potential solution to current diagnosis methods. The technique uses the NGAL protein, which can report toxic cellular stresses, and meets the criteria for a true biomarker.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateJan 28, 2011

Study finds presence of peers heightens teens' sensitivity to rewards of a risk

A new study by Temple University psychologists Jason Chein and Laurence Steinberg found that the presence of peers heightens teens' sensitivity to rewards, leading them to take more risks. The researchers used fMRI to measure brain activity in adolescents, young adults, and adults while playing a simulated driving game.

SourceTemple University·JournalDevelopmental Science·DateJan 28, 2011

City Tech research team casts light on asteroid deflection

A New York City College of Technology research team has developed a method to deflect asteroids using solar sail technology. The technique involves heating the surface of an asteroid to create a jet stream, which would alter its trajectory and potentially convert an Earth impact into a near miss.

SourceNew York City College of Technology·DateJan 28, 2011
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.

Cancer drug aids the regeneration of spinal cord injuries

Researchers found that Taxol, a cancer drug, can aid in the regeneration of nerve cells after spinal cord injuries. The drug stabilizes microtubules and prevents the production of inhibitory substances in scar tissue, allowing for better nerve cell growth.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateJan 28, 2011

A new appreciation of the ecology-evolution dynamic

A new appreciation of the ecology-evolution dynamic reveals that environmental factors can influence evolutionary changes and shape ecological traits. This emerging field of study highlights the interconnectedness between ecology and evolution, suggesting a feedback loop where ecological changes affect evolution and vice versa.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience·DateJan 28, 2011

More frequent drought likely in eastern Africa

New research predicts increased frequency of drought in eastern Africa, exacerbating existing food shortages and population growth. Scientists link warming Indian Ocean temperatures to decreased rainfall in the region.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·JournalClimate Dynamics·DateJan 28, 2011
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.

A dash of disorder yields a very efficient photocatalyst

Researchers from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory created a durable and efficient photocatalyst that can collect solar energy to extract hydrogen from water. The disorder-engineered nanocrystal absorbs infrared light, making it attractive for use in clean-energy technologies.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJan 28, 2011

Retired NFL players misuse painkillers more than general population

A new study published in the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence found that retired NFL players misuse painkillers at a higher rate than the general population, with 7% currently using opioid drugs. The study also found that players who experienced undiagnosed concussions were more likely to misused opioids.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateJan 28, 2011

Initiative to tackle malnutrition in Africa

The SUNRAY project aims to identify new ways to address malnutrition in Africa, prioritizing research led by African researchers. The initiative will integrate nutrition research with other sectors to address root causes and avoid 'technical fixes'.

SourceInstitute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp·DateJan 28, 2011
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.

Smoking habits are transmitted from mother to daughter and father to son

Research reveals that smoking habits are transmitted from mother to daughter and father to son, influencing the likelihood of nicotine addiction in offspring. The study found that socio-economic factors account for the transmission of these habits.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalOxford Bulletin of Economics and Statistics·DateJan 28, 2011

Island-scale study reveals climate-change effects

A large-scale experiment by UC Davis ecologists shows that environmental changes can alter how intact ecological communities function, affecting plant and animal species interactions. The study, led by Jonah Piovia-Scott, used seaweed to imitate climate change effects on Caribbean islands.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalScience·DateJan 28, 2011

Hormone therapy begun at menopause may pose risk for breast cancer

A large cohort study found that hormone therapy started at menopause increases breast cancer risk, particularly among women who start therapy before or soon after menopause. The study's results support previous findings and provide new insights into the relationship between timing of hormone therapy and breast cancer risk.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 28, 2011