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Science News Archive March 2015 - Page 38


Page 38 of 38

Sall4 is required for DNA repair in stem cells

A study found Sall4 protein promotes DNA repair in embryonic stem cells, potentially aiding cancer cell survival. This discovery raises the possibility of targeting Sall4 for cancer treatment.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateMar 2, 2015

Eating nuts and peanuts associated with reduced overall, cardiovascular death

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that nut and peanut consumption was associated with a reduced risk of total mortality and cardiovascular disease death across different ethnic groups. The study suggested that peanuts, due to their affordability, may be a cost-effective measure to improve cardiovascular health.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateMar 2, 2015

Observation articles in Annals of Internal Medicine, March 3, 2015

A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that female medical students are as accurate as their male counterparts but report less confidence in their abilities. This confidence gap could be addressed through improved medical training, helping to enhance physician competency and reduce defensive medicine practices.

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 2, 2015
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.

Myelin-maker: How an FDA-approved drug boosts myelin synthesis

Researchers have discovered a way to keep remyelination going using an FDA-approved drug solifenacin, which boosts myelin synthesis and improves auditory function in mice with myelin-related disease. The study shows that targeting human oligodendrocyte progenitor cells with solifenacin promotes differentiation and myelin production.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·DateMar 2, 2015

Brain waves

Research at Harvard Medical School identifies basal forebrain GABA parvalbumin neurons as crucial for triggering synchronized brain waves associated with conscious thought and perception. These neurons use the neural inhibitor GABA to create a pulsing rhythm, fine-tuning cognition and organization of data from the world around us.

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 2, 2015

Did climate change help spark the Syrian war?

A new study suggests that a record drought in Syria (2006-2010) was likely stoked by ongoing manmade climate change, contributing to the 2011 Syrian uprising. The researchers found that the drought destroyed agriculture and drove dispossessed farmers to cities, exacerbating poverty and government mismanagement.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 2, 2015

Sizing up cells: Study finds possible regulator of growth

Researchers at Princeton University may have found a key to understanding how cells assemble and grow to the right size. The nucleolus, a part of the cell responsible for making ribosomes, is shown to play a crucial role in regulating cell growth through phase transitions.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 2, 2015
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.

Promising new strategy to halt pancreatic cancer metastasis

Researchers found that a secreted immune protein called interleukin(IL)-17B promotes pancreatic cancer growth and metastasis. Treating tumor-bearing mice with an IL-17B inhibitor halted tumor growth and spread, resulting in increased survival.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMar 2, 2015

Desmoplakin's tail gets the message

Phosphorylation and methylation of desmoplakin regulate its interaction with the cytoskeleton, affecting cell-to-cell connections. The study reveals a regulatory mechanism that contributes to skin and heart diseases.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateMar 2, 2015

One step closer to defeating Alzheimer's disease

Researchers found that deleting TREM2 receptor in mice with AD-like disease reduced plaque formation, brain inflammation, and improved neuron survival. Macrophages lacking TREM2 were more effective at clearing beta-amyloid aggregates, suggesting a potential role for the receptor in neurodegeneration.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMar 2, 2015
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Forbidden quantum leaps possible with high-res spectroscopy

Physicists use high-resolution spectroscopy to study and control matter, enabling precise control over atomic transitions and revealing hidden information about atom structure. The technique has applications in quantum computing, where it could offer significant boosts in computing power and improve computer security.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 2, 2015

New research aims to refine increasingly popular plastic surgery procedures: Buttock augmentation and vaginal rejuvenation surgery

Researchers evaluate changes in gluteal muscle volume after silicone implant placement, finding significant muscle atrophy despite improved body shape. A new classification system is proposed to standardize labiaplasty techniques, ensuring better patient outcomes and satisfaction rates.

SourceWolters Kluwer Health·JournalPlastic & Reconstructive Surgery·DateMar 2, 2015

The hidden burden of dengue fever in West Africa

A study by University of Miami researchers found dengue virus circulating in urban areas of Ghana, with 21.6% of malaria patients tested positive for long-lasting dengue IgG antibodies, indicating lifetime exposure. The findings suggest that up to one-third of all outpatient visits could be misdiagnosed as malaria.

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateMar 2, 2015

Unlocking the key to immunological memory in bacteria

Researchers have discovered that bacteria can acquire genetic information from viruses and other foreign invaders, which is then stored in their own genome as an immune system. The key proteins, Cas1 and Cas2, recognize repeating sequences in the CRISPR loci and target them for spacer insertion.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateMar 2, 2015

ACP releases new guidelines for preventing and treating bedsores

The American College of Physicians has released new guidelines for preventing and treating bedsores, recommending protein supplementation and hydrocolloid dressings to reduce wound size. Advanced static mattresses and overlays are also recommended for patients at increased risk, while alternating air mattresses and overlays are advised...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 2, 2015
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.

Alzheimer's amyloid clumps found in young adult brains

Scientists have discovered that abnormal protein amyloid accumulates inside neurons of people as young as 20, which may contribute to Alzheimer's disease. The study found that this early accumulation leads to the formation of toxic clumps that damage and kill neurons.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalBrain·DateMar 2, 2015

Astronomers find dust in the early universe

A team of researchers has discovered a very distant galaxy that contains a large amount of dust, changing astronomers' previous calculations of how quickly the dust was formed. The discovery suggests that galaxies were enriched with dust particles containing elements such as carbon and oxygen, which could form planets.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalNature·DateMar 2, 2015

Human activity may be supporting growth of harmful algae in lakes

Cyanobacteria blooms have increased disproportionately over the past two centuries, with greatest growth since 1945, posing a serious threat to drinking water sources. Human activities such as land-use intensification, sewage discharge, and climate change contribute to this trend.

SourceWiley·JournalEcology Letters·DateMar 2, 2015
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.

Genetically speaking, mammals are more like their fathers

A novel study published in Nature Genetics shows that mammals use more of the DNA inherited from their dads to develop and express genes. This discovery has significant implications for understanding complex diseases like type-2 diabetes, heart disease, and schizophrenia.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 2, 2015

US women's awareness of breast density varies

A Mayo Clinic study found that US women's awareness of breast density varies significantly by race, ethnicity, household income, education level, and healthcare experiences. More than half of women reported having heard of breast density, but only 53% knew it was associated with cancer risk.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateMar 2, 2015

Study shows minors easily able to purchase electronic cigarettes online

A study by the University of North Carolina found that 93.7% of online e-cigarette vendors failed to properly verify customers' ages, allowing minors to easily purchase electronic cigarettes online. This lack of age verification is concerning, especially given the increasing use of e-cigarettes among teenagers.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateMar 2, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Genome reveals how Hessian fly causes galls in wheat

Researchers sequenced Hessian fly genome, discovering rapidly evolving genes that hijack plant biochemistry. The study sheds light on the insect's ability to create growth-stunting galls in wheat by mimicking normal proteins in plant cells.

SourcePurdue University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMar 2, 2015

Despite broad awareness, only half of doctors use prescription drug monitoring programs

A survey of 420 primary care physicians found that nearly three-quarters reported accessing their state's database easily, but most faced barriers to using the data. The study suggests that improving program usability and information sharing between states could increase participation and reduce prescription drug abuse.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMar 2, 2015

Healthy-looking prostate cells mask cancer-causing mutations

New research shows that non-cancerous prostate cells with genetic mutations can develop into cancer, potentially explaining why prostate cancer often has multiple genetically different tumours. This discovery could lead to a rethink of treatment strategies and improve outcomes for men with the disease.

SourceCancer Research UK·JournalNature Genetics·DateMar 2, 2015
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.

Anticholinergic drugs linked to risk for pneumonia in elderly

A Group Health study of over 3,000 patients found that anticholinergic medications increase the risk of pneumonia in older adults. The study suggests that clinicians should review medications regularly to identify potential risks and explore alternative treatments.

SourceGroup Health Research Institute·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 2, 2015

The failure of the Medicare principle of universality

A new study published in the Medical Journal of Australia found that Australia's mental health care system is multi-tiered rather than universal, with those living in disadvantaged areas receiving fewer services and from less highly trained providers. The research highlights a disparity in access to psychiatric and clinical psychologis...

SourceMonash University·JournalThe Medical Journal of Australia·DateMar 1, 2015

Black men less willing to be investigated for prostate cancer

A study by the University of Exeter found that black men are less likely to opt for prostate cancer investigation due to fear and perception of severe complications. The research suggests that proactive discussion with doctors and targeted education may help address this issue.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalBritish Journal of General Practice·DateMar 1, 2015
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.

Image-guided treatment shown to break the migraine cycle

A new image-guided treatment has been shown to provide sustained relief for chronic migraine sufferers, allowing them to require less medication. The treatment involves injecting a numbing agent into the sphenopalatine ganglion, a nerve bundle associated with migraines, and results in a 36% decrease in pain scores.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·DateMar 1, 2015

Robert Kerlan delivers Dotter Lecture at SIR 2015

At SIR 2015, Robert K. Kerlan discussed the need for collaboration between interventional radiologists and the broader medical community to address changing healthcare economics and practices. Kerlan emphasized the field's potential for improving patient care through innovative therapies.

SourceSociety of Interventional Radiology·DateMar 1, 2015

Soft drink tax could improve health of the nation

A new study suggests that an excise tax on sugar-sweetened drinks can effectively reduce consumption rates, especially among heavy drinkers. The research found that adding a 20 cents per litre tax was more effective than a sales tax of similar levels in lowering consumption rates.

SourceMonash University·JournalHealth Economics·DateMar 1, 2015
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.

Genetics reveals where emperor penguins survived the last ice age

A study found that only three populations of emperor penguins may have survived the last ice age, with the Ross Sea being a likely refuge for one population. Genetic diversity analysis suggests that conditions were too extreme for large populations to survive during the last ice age.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateMar 1, 2015