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Science News Archive December 2014


Page 19 of 28

Genes that cause pancreatic cancer identified by new tool

A new technique has uncovered large sets of previously unknown pancreatic cancer genes by introducing DNA transposons into mouse genomes. The study found that the Foxp1 gene drives cancer progression and is highly expressed in human cancers that have metastasised.

UT Arlington team proposes new model for snake venom evolution

A UT Arlington team developed a new model for snake venom evolution, suggesting that venom genes evolved independently in distinct lineages of reptiles. The study found similar expression levels of venom gene families in python oral glands and brain tissue, challenging the traditional view of a core venom system developing first.

A yardstick to measure the malignancy of prostate cancer

Researchers discovered a protein called BAZ2A that influences epigenetic patterns in prostate cancer cells, leading to increased malignancy and tumor growth. High levels of BAZ2A expression were linked to more advanced tumors, metastases, and poor patient outcomes.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

High photosensitivity 2-D-few-layered molybdenum diselenide phototransistors

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology developed back-gated field-effect phototransistors made of MoSe2 crystals. The devices exhibited excellent performance, with a measured photoresponsivity of 97.1 AW-1 and a theoretical external quantum efficiency 280-fold higher than commercial Si and InGaAs photodiodes.

Detecting gases wirelessly and cheaply

Researchers have developed a new sensor that can detect gaseous ammonia, hydrogen peroxide, and cyclohexanone wirelessly using a smartphone. The sensors, made from modified NFC tags, require almost no energy and can function at ambient temperatures.

The winds of Titan

Researchers used NASA wind tunnel to study threshold speeds for particle movement on Titan, finding higher speeds than predicted from Earth-based models. The findings can help understand atmospheric forces on icy moons and planets with thin or thick atmospheres.

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.

New technique allows low-cost creation of 3-D nanostructures

Researchers from North Carolina State University have developed a new lithography technique that uses nanoscale spheres to create three-dimensional structures. The new method reduces the cost of nanolithography and allows for the creation of complex nanostructures without expensive equipment.

Does smoking hamper treatment for alcohol abuse?

A new study by University at Buffalo Research Institute on Addictions found that smoking is associated with difficulties in alcohol treatment. Tobacco smokers had shorter treatment durations and were less likely to achieve their alcohol-related goals compared to non-smokers.

Hookah smoking increases risk of subsequent cigarette smoking among adolescents

A Dartmouth study found that hookah smoking increased the probability of trying cigarette smoking over two years by 19%. Hookah and snus use are associated with later cigarette smoking in non-cigarette smoking adolescents and young adults. The study highlights the need for FDA regulation to restrict manufacturers' ability to flavor, pa...

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Preeclampsia during mother's pregnancy associated with greater autism risk

A large study found that mothers of children with autism were over twice as likely to have had preeclampsia pregnancies. Children with autism and developmental delay also showed greater cognitive impairment when their mothers experienced preeclampsia. The study suggests a potential link between preeclampsia and autism development.

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.

Chesapeake Bay region streams are warming

Researchers found a significant warming trend in air and water temperatures over 51 years, with impacts on water quality, eutrophication, and aquatic life. Rising temperatures will lead to increased nutrient runoff and shifts in plant and animal distributions in the bay's freshwater rivers and streams.

New research will help robots know their limits

A collaborative project between UK researchers will focus on developing formal verification techniques for autonomous systems. The goal is to ensure robots make decisions that are safe, ethical, and follow legislation, with applications in industries such as automotive and manufacturing.

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Impossible? Can researchers develop 100 drugs in 10 years?

A team at Recursion Pharmaceuticals aims to accelerate the development of therapies for rare diseases by leveraging custom-designed software and human cellular models. The approach has already led to the identification of potential treatments for cerebral cavernous malformation, a rare hereditary vascular disease.

Glucokinase activation enhances sugar craving in rodents

Activation of glucokinase in the arcuate nucleus of rodents increased food intake and body mass, as well as preference for glucose. Inhibition of glucokinase decreased food consumption and glucose intake, indicating that glucokinase dysfunction may underlie glucose cravings.

NASA-funded FOXSI to observe X-rays from Sun

The FOXSI mission will observe high-energy X-rays from the Sun, helping scientists understand solar flares and the sun's atmosphere. By detecting these faint events, researchers aim to confirm the existence of nanoflares, which are thought to occur constantly but are difficult to detect.

Debate on safety of e-cigarettes continues

A recent article collection in BMC Medicine examines the safety of e-cigarettes, with two experts offering differing views on their impact. Peter Hajek argues that e-cigarettes are orders of magnitude safer than conventional cigarettes, while Charlotta Pisinger believes they can be less harmful but still pose health risks.

Experimental gene therapy successful in certain lymphomas and leukemia

Researchers have successfully treated patients with advanced CD19-positive hematologic malignancies using CAR T cells, achieving complete remission in some cases. The study used the Sleeping Beauty non-viral transduction system to modify T cells, demonstrating further promise in treating lymphoid malignancies.

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.

Punishing kids for lying just doesn't work

Researchers discovered that punishing children for lying can have the opposite effect, making them less likely to tell the truth. Children are more likely to lie if they're afraid of punishment than if they believe it's the right thing to do.

Scientists reveal parchment's hidden stories

Researchers at Trinity College Dublin and the University of York used genetic sequencing techniques to analyze DNA from parchment samples, revealing insights into livestock breeding history. The study sheds light on how agricultural development shaped animal genetics across centuries.

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.

Older breast cancer patients still get radiation despite limited benefit

A recent study published in Cancer journal reveals that older breast cancer patients continue to receive radiation therapy despite evidence suggesting limited benefits. The study analyzed data from a national health database and found that only about one-third of eligible women no longer receive radiation therapy.

Cell division induces tissue ordering

A recent study found that cell division in endothelial cells leads to the formation of large, ordered eddies in tissue, which may help widen blocked blood vessels and aid healing. The researchers used phase-contrast microscopy to observe the movement of new cells and found characteristic turbulence patterns.

High tunnels found effective for finishing cold-tolerant annuals

A study found unheated high tunnels to be an effective method for finishing cold-tolerant annuals, reducing plant mortality and delays in days to flower. The use of high tunnels also led to improvements in measures of plant quality, such as shorter, more compact plants.

PRM-151 therapy well tolerated in patients with advanced myelofibrosis

A study at MD Anderson Cancer Center found PRM-151 to be well-tolerated in patients with advanced myelofibrosis, showing encouraging trends in clinical and histologic aspects of the disease. The therapy demonstrated reduced bone marrow fibrosis and improved hematologic parameters, suggesting potential for further development.

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.

Primary care doctors report prescribing fewer opioids for pain

A survey of primary care physicians suggests a decrease in opioid prescriptions, with 58% reporting reduced prescribing habits. The study highlights the growing concern among doctors about the risks of prescription opioid use, including addiction and death by overdose.

UH Case Medical Center experts present data at ASH Annual Meeting

A novel biochip has been developed to evaluate red blood cell properties in sickle cell patients, providing a potential tool for monitoring and managing the disease. The research aims to identify and predict flare-ups, allowing for earlier treatment and prevention of complications.

Penn State shares in NSF Critical Zone collaboration grant

The new Science Across Virtual Institutes project will create a shared platform for broader research at the nation's 10 CZO locations and international counterparts. This will enable scientists to establish common experiments and measurements, providing training for graduate students and post-doctoral fellows.

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.

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.

Shedding new light on the formation of emotional fear memories

A new study identifies a neural mechanism for translating unpleasant experiences into fear memories by changing amygdala connections. The findings suggest that Hebbian plasticity is partially correct but requires concurrent activation of noradrenaline to form memories.

Experience counts with radiation therapy for head and neck cancer, study shows

A study by Ohio State University researchers found that patients treated at highly-experienced radiation oncology centers had better survival rates and fewer cancer recurrences compared to those treated at less experienced centers. The study analyzed data from 470 patients treated with radiation therapy between 2002-2005.

Asbestos: An ongoing challenge to global health

The global spread of asbestos is a pressing concern, with over 50 countries banning the substance due to its deadly health risks. India and the US remain among the largest producers and importers of asbestos, contributing to the ongoing challenge to global health.

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Rule of 3: Hormone triplet offers hope for obesity and diabetes

Researchers have successfully designed a substance combining three metabolically active hormone components (GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon) to fight metabolic diseases. The triple hormone reduces body weight by around 30 percent while improving insulin sensitivity, essentially curing obesity and diabetes in animal models.

Study finds early warning signals of abrupt climate change

A new study has found early warning signals of a reorganisation of the Atlantic Ocean's circulation, which could impact the global climate system. The researchers used a complex model to analyze the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), finding that these signs are present up to 250 years before it collapses.

Turning biological cells to stone improves cancer and stem cell research

Scientists have developed a method to transmute living cells into more permanent materials that defy rot and can endure high-powered probes. This technique is widening research opportunities for biologists developing cancer treatments and materials scientists creating commercially useful shapes.

HPV vaccine, riskier sexual activity not linked researchers say

A recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal has found that HPV vaccination does not lead to increased risky sexual behavior in young girls. The study followed 260,493 girls and found no significant increase in pregnancies or sexually transmitted infections among those who received the vaccine.

Hummingbird's hover surprisingly easy to hack

University of British Columbia researchers found that hummingbirds lose positional stability when exposed to moving visual patterns, even with prolonged exposure or combination of moving and stationary stimuli. This discovery highlights the complex relationship between a hummingbird's visual field and its ability to hover in place.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Toughest breast cancer may have met its match

A team of researchers has discovered a way to make triple-negative breast cancer cells susceptible to chemotherapy by inhibiting the HIF protein network. The study found that HIF inhibitors can decrease tumor size and prevent relapse in mice, offering new hope for treatment-resistant patients.

UBC team finds a glitch in hummingbird hovering

Researchers at UBC found that hummingbirds struggle to control their hovering when faced with visual stimuli like moving images. This phenomenon was observed in virtual reality experiments where birds were unable to adapt to dynamic visual input.

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.

News from Annals of Internal Medicine Dec. 8, 2014

A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that breast density notification laws substantially increase costs and save relatively few lives. The study suggests that these laws would result in limited health gains and substantially increased expenses.

Ancient engravings rewrite human history

Scientists discovered ancient engravings from human ancestors on a 400,000 year old fossilised shell from Java. The discovery is the earliest known example of ancient humans deliberately creating pattern.

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.