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Science News for April 15, 2012


Hebrew SeniorLife researchers discover genes linked to osteoporosis, bone breaks

Hebrew SeniorLife researchers have identified 56 genetic variants associated with osteoporosis and bone mineral density. The study found that these variants can increase the risk of bone fractures, with women over 65 facing a higher risk. The findings may lead to personalized gene-based treatments for osteoporosis.

SourceHebrew SeniorLife Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 15, 2012
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.

Despite obstacles, fine needle aspiration might be best diagnostic tool

Researchers found that fine needle aspiration is highly sensitive for diagnosing lung cancer, but has a high rate of false negatives, especially in larger lesions. The study recommends repeat imaging to monitor for growth and suggests this method can help patients avoid unnecessary surgery.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateApr 15, 2012

Latest research confirms genetic susceptibility to lung cancer

A recent study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology reveals that Japanese patients with lung cancer are more likely to harbor specific genetic mutations and have a different risk profile compared to Western patients. The research highlights the importance of considering genetic factors in lung cancer diagnosis and treatment.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateApr 15, 2012

Salk scientists discover how plants grow to escape shade

Researchers found that phytochrome interacting factor 7 (PIF7) serves as key messenger between plant's cellular light sensors and production of auxins, hormones that stimulate stem growth. This discovery could lead to high-yield crops that gather light more efficiently and make better use of farmland.

SourceSalk Institute·JournalGenes & Development·DateApr 15, 2012

International team uncovers new genes that shape brain size, intelligence

A study of over 21,000 participants found new genes that boost or lessen the risk of brain atrophy, mental illness, and Alzheimer's disease. The research also uncovered genetic variants associated with individual differences in brain size and intelligence.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 15, 2012
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

New X-ray technique reveals structure of printable electronics

Researchers developed a new X-ray technique to analyze the molecular structure of organic polymers used in printable electronics. They found that molecular alignment is crucial for device performance, particularly in transistors and solar cells.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 15, 2012

New method may help detect marker for Alzheimer's disease earlier

A new method using florbetaben PET scans may help diagnose Alzheimer's disease earlier by detecting beta-amyloid plaques in the brain. The study found a sensitivity of 77% and specificity of 94% compared to post-mortem diagnosis, with even higher accuracy for visual assessments.

SourceAmerican Academy of Neurology·DateApr 15, 2012

New software opens the door to wider use of 3-D imaging in the study of disease

Researchers developed a novel system for 3D reconstruction and examination of tissues at microscopic resolution, enhancing the study of normal and disease processes. The new approach uses conventional histopathological methods and can be used by technical or medical staff without input from computing specialists.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateApr 15, 2012

Coral reef winners and losers in a warmer world

A new study reveals that coral reefs will survive climate change by altering the mix of coral species as temperatures rise and oceans become more acidic. This shift could have significant implications for ecosystem services like reef tourism and fishing, with potential losses in biodiversity.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalCurrent Biology·DateApr 15, 2012
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.

Blood type A may predispose to some rotavirus infections

Baylor College of Medicine researchers found that the P[14] strain of rotavirus uses the histo-blood group antigen A as a receptor to infect human cells. Laboratory tests showed that cells with this antigen were easily infected, while those without it were not.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalNature·DateApr 15, 2012

An Achilles heel of AML

Researchers have discovered that activating mutations in the FLT3 gene play a crucial role in acute myeloid leukemia, making it an attractive target for new treatments. The study identifies drug-resistant mutations in FLT3 and suggests that therapies involving combinations of multiple drugs could suppress these mutated forms.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalNature·DateApr 15, 2012

3-D RNA modeling opens scientific doors

Researchers have developed a cost-effective method for three-dimensional RNA structure prediction, enabling scientists to understand the functions of RNA molecules that dictate human cell behavior. The technique has the potential to help identify new therapeutic targets for diseases.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Methods·DateApr 15, 2012
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.

Large international study finds memory in adults impacted by versions of 4 genes

A large international study has found that certain versions of four genes may speed up the shrinkage of the hippocampus, a brain region involved in making new memories. The research suggests that these gene variants may increase vulnerability to Alzheimer's disease by accelerating hippocampus shrinkage.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 15, 2012

BUSM researchers identify genes that influence hippocampal volume

Researchers at BUSM identified four genetic loci associated with decreased hippocampal volume, a trait linked to Alzheimer's disease and aging. The findings suggest that specific genes may influence cell death, brain development, and memory performance.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalNature Genetics·DateApr 15, 2012

Urgent research needed to determine most effective follow-up care for lung cancer patients

Researchers analyzed four studies and found that regular follow-up reduces crisis-driven health episodes. While no preferred method was determined, the authors recommend guidelines for initial specialist appointments and protocol-driven follow-up led by a lung cancer clinical nurse specialist.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateApr 15, 2012
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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