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Science News for November 1, 2006


New study finds amniocentesis safer for pregnant women

A new study published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology found that midtrimester amniocentesis is associated with a lower risk of miscarriage than previously reported, with a rate of approximately 1 in 1,600 pregnancies. The study refutes the typically quoted 0.5% pregnancy loss rate and suggests it may be even lower than 0.1%.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateNov 1, 2006

Patients who recover from hepatitis C have lower risk of reinfection

A new study found that individuals who had tested positive for hepatitis C but later tested negative were significantly less likely to become infected again compared to those who had never been infected. This suggests that previous exposure to HCV may be protective against reinfection, possibly on an immunologic basis.

SourceWiley·JournalHepatology·DateNov 1, 2006

St. Jude announces breakthrough in eye cancer treatment

Researchers have developed a localized treatment that shrinks retinoblastoma tumors while avoiding chemotherapy side effects. The new treatment shows promise against certain breast, lung, prostate and colon cancers, offering a simpler and more effective alternative to current therapies.

SourceSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital·JournalNature·DateNov 1, 2006
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Research linking Ashkenazi Jews and breast cancer genes beset by problems

A recent study challenges the practice of using Ashkenazi Jewish ethnicity as a proxy for genetic differences in breast cancer research, citing methodological problems and unintended consequences. The study highlights disparities in access to care and potential stigmatization, introducing gaps in testing and treatment for other groups.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateNov 1, 2006

Microbes compete with animals for food by making it stink

A new study suggests microbes produce repugnant chemicals to compete with larger animals for valuable food resources like decaying meat and seeds. Microbes can outcompete other organisms if they can produce chemicals that make these resources unpalatable to higher species.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalEcology·DateNov 1, 2006

Researchers to study why dead zone returned to Lake Erie

A five-year study will examine the causes of the dead zone in Lake Erie, focusing on excess phosphorous, zebra mussels, and global warming. Researchers aim to detect the cause and prevent further spread before affecting the fishery and tourism industries.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateNov 1, 2006

Study finds periodontal treatment does not lower preterm birth risk

A large clinical trial found that pregnant women treated for gum disease during pregnancy did not have a significantly lower risk of premature birth. The study, the Obstetrics and Periodontal Therapy Trial (OPT), also showed no increase in adverse events from dental treatment during pregnancy.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 1, 2006

Fossil is missing link in elephant lineage

A pig-sized, tusked creature discovered in Eritrea represents a missing link between ancient elephants and their modern counterparts. The finding suggests that mastodons and elephants originated in Africa, contradicting previous theories that placed their origins in Europe and Asia.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 1, 2006
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Using mathematics and computers to understand the world

Undergraduate students from Rensselaer and Howard universities will participate in a research program combining mathematics, computational science, and real-world applications. The program aims to attract students with mathematical skills to fields like the biological sciences.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·DateNov 1, 2006

Heel to heal

A new stretch targeting the plantar fascia has shown significant results in treating plantar fasciitis, with 75% of patients experiencing no pain and full activity within 3-6 months. The stretch, developed by Benedict DiGiovanni and Deborah Nawoczenski, requires repeated stretching exercises to alleviate chronic symptoms.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Bone and Joint Surgery·DateNov 1, 2006

Gene therapy a possibility for metachromatic leukodystrophy?

Researchers have successfully treated mice with gene therapy, reversing neurological damage and deficits caused by the genetic defect that leads to metachromatic leukodystrophy. The treatment involves using hematopoietic stem progenitor cells genetically modified to express high levels of ARSA protein.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 1, 2006
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.

Florida Tech earns two grants for continuing, new hurricane model work

Florida Institute of Technology (Florida Tech) has received two grants to continue and develop a new hurricane model. The first grant is $220,000 from the Florida Department of Financial Affairs Office of Insurance Regulation to predict hurricane insurance losses for commercial buildings. The team will also maintain an existing enginee...

SourceFlorida Institute of Technology·DateNov 1, 2006

Museum-fueled global study shows you can't judge biodiversity by its bird

A global study has found that pinpointing rare bird species isn't a reliable way to assume where other endangered animals occur. The research gathered data on 9,626 bird species, 4,104 mammal species, and 5,619 amphibian species to show that closer examination is needed for conservation efforts.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature·DateNov 1, 2006

Helping muscle regenerate

Researchers have found a way to protect muscle from degenerating after injury and improve muscle healing in mice by blocking the central signal molecule NF-kB. The study suggests two molecules with potential as promising drug targets for new therapies against muscle wasting.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 1, 2006

U of M study shows treatment of periodontal disease does not decrease risk for preterm birth

A recent U of M study found that treating periodontal disease in pregnant women does not reduce the risk of preterm birth or low birth weight. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, concluded that while treatment is safe and effective, it does not directly affect a woman's risk for these complications.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 1, 2006

HPV test is a better long-term predictor of cervical cell abnormalities than pap smear

A recent study by the American Association for Cancer Research found that HPV tests are a better predictor of cervical cell abnormalities than Pap smears, particularly in older women. The researchers discovered that HPV-positive women aged 40 and above had a significantly higher risk of developing cervical cancer within 10 years.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·JournalCancer Research·DateNov 1, 2006
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.

A simple, noninvasive test measures survival time in adult pulmonary hypertension

Researchers developed a simple, noninvasive test to measure right ventricular function and predict survival of adults with pulmonary hypertension. The test, TAPSE, assesses echocardiographic abnormalities in the tricuspid valve and showed that patients with advanced right ventricular dysfunction had dramatically reduced survival rates.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 1, 2006

Health care not playing major role in 2006 election but possible factor in close races

A Harvard study analyzing national opinion surveys found that health care is unlikely to determine the outcome of the November 7 congressional elections. However, certain health care issues such as health care costs and access to care for the uninsured are more salient in individual congressional races.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 1, 2006

Recovering Pompeii

Researchers from France and Italy used synchrotron light to investigate the mysterious darkening of ancient Pompeii wall paintings, discovering chemical reactions involving chlorine, mercury, and calcite. The study provides new insights for conservators and preservation of Roman archaeological sites.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateNov 1, 2006
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.

UC San Diego physicists observe new property of matter

Physicists at UC San Diego observed spontaneous coherence in excitons, a bound pair of electrons and holes that enable semiconductors to function as novel electronic devices. This discovery could lead to the development of new computing devices and insights into quantum properties of matter.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 1, 2006

Faith-based youth groups stand out in fostering teens' growth experiences

A new study by the University of Illinois found that faith-based youth groups provide the highest rates of personal and interpersonal growth experiences for teens, compared to sports, performance and fine arts groups, academic clubs, and community-oriented activities. The study surveyed over 2,000 eleventh graders and found that teens ...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateNov 1, 2006
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.

Nap a day makes doctors OK, Stanford study finds

A Stanford University School of Medicine study found that napping improved mood, alertness and performance in doctors and nurses who worked night shifts. The study's results showed that a short nap break reduced fatigue, sleepiness and performance lapses.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalAnnals of Emergency Medicine·DateNov 1, 2006

Lack of GBA2: A contraceptive for male mice

A recent study found that mice lacking the GBA2 protein exhibit decreased fertility due to abnormal sperm morphology and reduced motility. The discovery may shed light on the mechanism behind certain treatments for Gaucher's disease, which can also impact fertility.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 1, 2006

Regular follow-up important during antidepressant treatment

Regular follow-up is essential during antidepressant treatment due to individual variability in response, according to Dr. Greg Simon. The author suggests maintaining a connection between patients and providers to address potential concerns and provide support.

SourceGroup Health Research Institute·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateNov 1, 2006
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

HHMI awards $19 million to Latin American, Canadian scientists

Thirty-nine outstanding scientists from Latin America and Canada have been awarded a total of nearly $500,000 by HHMI for five-year international research scholar awards. This marks the fourth round of awards to Canadian and Latin American researchers, supporting their research capacity and linking them with global investigators.

SourceHoward Hughes Medical Institute·DateNov 1, 2006

Mount Sinai receives grant from US Attorney General office

The Mount Sinai Medical Center will receive a $400,000 grant to develop and disseminate a curriculum educating health professionals about rational prescribing. The grant aims to promote critical thinking and healthy skepticism among healthcare providers, enabling them to make evidence-based prescribing decisions.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·DateNov 1, 2006
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.

Decreased TGF-beta signaling might make you demented

Research by Stanford University found that decreased TGF-beta signaling in mice leads to increased neurodegeneration and beta-amyloid peptide accumulation, similar to Alzheimer's disease. Increasing TGF-beta signaling may potentially reduce neurodegeneration and be beneficial for individuals with AD.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 1, 2006

ASU researchers test antibacterial effects of healing clays

Researchers at Arizona State University are studying two French clays that have been shown to heal Buruli ulcer, a flesh-eating bacterial disease found primarily in central and western Africa. The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind the antibacterial properties of the clays and explore their potential as a new treatment option.

SourceArizona State University·DateNov 1, 2006
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.

Global map shows new patterns of extinction risk

A comprehensive worldwide map of mammals, birds, and amphibians shows that endangered species from different groups don't inhabit the same areas, contradicting conservationists' assumptions. This discovery has significant implications for conservation planning and decision-making.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature·DateNov 1, 2006

Salt intake is strongly associated with obesity

A study published in Progress in Cardiovascular Diseases found a strong association between salt intake and obesity. Reducing salt intake was associated with a significant decrease in stroke and coronary heart disease mortality, as well as an increase in life expectancy.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalProgress in Cardiovascular Diseases·DateNov 1, 2006

Sildenafil prevents rebound pulmonary hypertension in infants

A single dose of sildenafil prevented rebound pulmonary hypertension and reduced mechanical ventilation time in ICU infants undergoing nitric oxide withdrawal. The study found significant benefits for the sildenafil group, with a total ICU stay of 47.8 hours compared to 189 hours for placebo recipients.

SourceAmerican Thoracic Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·DateNov 1, 2006
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.

Phys ed class more effective when there's more talking

A new program in Ohio State University's phys ed class encourages students to plan their own exercise routines, leading to a significant increase in physical activity outside of school. Nearly half of students were inactive before the program, but after participation, over 90% became more active.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateNov 1, 2006

U of MN researchers turn cord blood into lung cells

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have successfully differentiated umbilical cord blood stem cells into type II alveolar cells, which can secrete surfactant and repair airways. This breakthrough may lead to new treatments for lung diseases like cystic fibrosis.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalCytotherapy·DateNov 1, 2006

Mechanical 'artificial hearts' can remove need for heart transplant by returning heart to normal

Researchers developed a treatment using mechanical Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs) and certain drug therapies to shrink enlarged hearts and enable normal function. The therapy improved quality of life in 88% of patients who received the full combination, with nearly all recovering from heart disease five years later.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 1, 2006

Rock climbing does not increase risk of osteoarthritis

A US study finds no link between rock climbing and increased osteoarthritis risk, despite increased bone density in climbers' fingers and hands. Climbing style intensity is a significant predictor of bone strength, with bouldering and sport climbing styles correlating with stronger bones.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalJournal of Anatomy·DateNov 1, 2006

Study holds promise for new way to fight AIDS

Researchers have determined the APOBEC-3G protein structure, providing key insights into its role in the immune system and potential as a drug target. The study suggests that editing errors introduced by A3G can help defend against HIV, and future drugs may be designed to replicate this natural protection.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateNov 1, 2006
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.

Unique estrogen receptor linked to metastatic breast cancer

A novel estrogen receptor, GPR30, is linked to breast tumor progression and increased tumor size. The receptor's expression was positively associated with tumor size and metastatic disease, suggesting it could influence treatment decisions for hormone therapy.

SourceLifespan·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateNov 1, 2006

Study finds pay-for-performance now common among US HMOs

The study found that 52.1% of health plans used pay-for-performance programs in 2005, with physician-oriented programs more common than hospital programs. The surveys highlighted important details about these programs, including the types of performance indicators used and the challenges faced by HMOs in implementing them.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 1, 2006

Poor readers have higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior

A study of 188 students found that poor readers were three times more likely to consider or attempt suicide and six times more likely to drop out of school than typical readers. Researchers identified reading difficulties as an independent risk factor for suicidal thoughts and behavior, regardless of psychiatric conditions.

SourceAtrium Health Wake Forest Baptist·JournalJournal of Learning Disabilities·DateNov 1, 2006

New dementia screening tool detects early cognitive problems missed by commonly used test

A new dementia screening tool developed by Saint Louis University has been shown to detect mild cognitive problems in the elderly that were missed by the Mini Mental Status Examination. The tool, known as SLUMS, is more sensitive and can help clinicians identify patients with mild neurocognitive disorder on initial visit.

SourceSaint Louis University·JournalAmerican Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateNov 1, 2006
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.

Identification of a key gene required for brain neural circuit formation

A key gene, Boc, has been identified as crucial for brain neural circuit formation and axon guidance in the nervous system. This discovery could lead to novel strategies for treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, and spinal cord injuries.

SourceInstitut de recherches cliniques de Montreal·JournalNature·DateNov 1, 2006

Promising target for new atherosclerosis therapies linked to leukemia

A study at The Wistar Institute found that blocking certain enzymes may inhibit chronic inflammation in blood vessel walls, but also promotes leukemia in mice. The researchers identified a strain of mice lacking the gene for a specific lipoxygenase enzyme, which closely mimics human CML and offers a new model for studying the disease.

SourceThe Wistar Institute·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateNov 1, 2006

End-of-life care can be improved

A recent supplement to Critical Care Medicine outlines progress made in end-of-life care in intensive care units (ICU), with a focus on palliative care, quality indicators, and family communication. The study suggests that improving end-of-life care in ICUs can lead to better patient outcomes and reduced suffering.

SourceSociety of Critical Care Medicine·JournalCritical Care Medicine·DateNov 1, 2006

Predicting PET imaging's future: Diagnosing and treating diseases ASAP

Advances in PET technology enable early disease detection and personalized medicine, potentially leading to annual screenings for common diseases. Doctors will use PET's molecular imaging ability to visualize precise molecular changes, informing treatment and prevention strategies.

SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateNov 1, 2006
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.

Researchers teach computers how to name images by 'thinking'

Researchers have developed an AI system that enables computers to interpret images and provide accurate annotations, improving the accessibility of online image collections. The ALIPR system can automatically tag images with relevant keywords, facilitating search and retrieval, and has been shown to be correct in over 98% of cases.

SourcePenn State·DateNov 1, 2006

Healthier preemies and parents, thanks to a new early intervention program

A new study published in Pediatrics shows that an educational-behavioral program called Creating Opportunities for Parent Empowerment (COPE) can improve the mental health of parents and decrease the length of stay in the NICU by four to eight days for premature infants. The potential healthcare savings could total $2.4 billion if imple...

SourceArizona State University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateNov 1, 2006

Information on bird flu cases poorly recorded, scientists say

The H5N1 avian influenza has been detected in 55 countries, but critical information about wild birds is often recorded inaccurately or not at all. This lack of data can lead to unwarranted assumptions and conclusions that affect public perceptions and resource allocation.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateNov 1, 2006

JCI table of contents: Nov. 1, 2006

Researchers discovered that GBA2 is necessary for normal sperm function and male fertility in mice. A lack of GBA2 results in abnormal sperm morphology and decreased fertility, similar to a treatment for Gaucher's disease.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 1, 2006
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.

Antidepressants linked to lower child suicide rates

A US study found an inverse relationship between antidepressant prescriptions and child suicide rates, with counties having high prescription rates showing lower suicide rates. The study predicts that no SSRI prescriptions would lead to 253 more suicides per year among children and adolescents.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateNov 1, 2006

Pakistani women 30 percent more likely to be blind than men

A new survey found that Pakistani women are 30% more likely to be blind than men, with the highest incidence of blindness in regions like Punjab and Balochistan. The study also reveals lower utilization of eye care services as a contributing factor to this disparity.

SourceAssociation for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology·JournalInvestigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science·DateNov 1, 2006

Columbia research explores impact of gum disease therapy on pregnancy

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that treating gum disease during pregnancy does not improve pregnancy outcomes, but is safe for pregnant women. Further research is needed to develop more specific treatment guidelines for pregnant women with periodontitis.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateNov 1, 2006
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.