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Science News for October 24, 2007


U-M scientists find new causes for neurodegeneration

University of Michigan scientists found a significant connection between the lipid PI(3,5)P2 and neuronal health, revealing potential treatments for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Lowered levels of this signaling molecule lead to massive neurodegeneration in mice.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 24, 2007

Meteor no longer prime suspect in great extinction

A new study suggests that the Great Dying 250 million years ago may have been caused by creeping environmental stress from volcanic eruptions and global warming. The research finds that organisms in the deep ocean died first, followed by those on ocean shelves and reefs, supporting a model that attributes the extinction to enormous vol...

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalGeology·DateOct 24, 2007
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.

Combination targets: some drugs may work best when they work together

Researchers have discovered that combining targeted therapies can be more effective than single drugs, particularly when targeting multiple pathways such as the MAPK and PI3-kinase pathways. This approach may help overcome drug resistance and improve treatment outcomes for various types of cancer, including lung and breast cancer.

SourceAmerican Association for Cancer Research·DateOct 24, 2007

Inhaled steriods used as preventive treatment post-Sept. 11

A new study found that inhaled corticosteroids can significantly reduce respiratory symptoms and improve lung function in NYC firefighters two years after the World Trade Center collapse. The treatment was found to be effective in preventing asthma-like illnesses and improving quality of life among firefighters.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 24, 2007

Stanford/Packard researchers find disease genes hidden in discarded data

Researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine and Lucile Packard Children's Hospital have discovered over a dozen new obesity-related genes by analyzing 49 independent experiments. The team used a comparison approach to identify reliable performers, gaining insights into fundamental importance.

SourceStanford Medicine·JournalBioinformatics·DateOct 24, 2007
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Decoding effects of toxins on embryo development

Zebrafish embryos exposed to 11 common pollutants showed distinct gene-expression profiles, allowing researchers to identify individual toxins. The new method offers a potential solution for evaluating developmental toxicity of pharmaceuticals and industrial chemicals.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalGenome Biology·DateOct 24, 2007

Daylight savings time disrupts humans' natural circadian rhythm

A new study finds that daylight saving time (DST) significantly disrupts the human circadian clock's seasonal adjustment. Researchers analyzed sleep patterns of over 55,000 people in Central Europe and found that DST timing fails to adapt, leading to significant disruptions in daily rhythms.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 24, 2007

Georgetown leads major effort to combat disparities in DC stroke care

Researchers will investigate barriers to treating ischemic strokes and explore the effectiveness of patient navigators and imaging studies to address disparities in DC hospitals. The projects aim to improve stroke prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for medically underserved communities.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·DateOct 24, 2007

Bird flu finds children's lungs faster

Researchers found that avian influenza viruses can infect children's cells more easily than adults' due to the widespread distribution of sialic acid receptors in children's lower respiratory tract. This may explain why avian H5N1 viruses can infect human upper respiratory tracts despite lacking traditional receptors.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalRespiratory Research·DateOct 24, 2007
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.

Gauging parent knowledge about teens' substance use

Detailed statistics show that 82% of parents accurately evaluated cigarette smoking, 86% accurately reported alcohol use, and 86% accurately reported marijuana use. However, only 72% accurately reported illicit drug use. Parents can use this knowledge to help themselves cope with teenage substance use.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalJournal of Child & Adolescent Substance Abuse·DateOct 24, 2007

University ranking systems seriously flawed

A study in BMC Medicine critiques university ranking systems for being misleading and invalid, citing discrepancies between top lists from Shanghai and Times Higher Education. The authors argue that such flaws can harm science and education, highlighting the need for global collaboration to standardize data.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateOct 24, 2007

Procedure helps to eliminate sleep apnea

Researchers found that uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) eliminated obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in approximately one quarter to one-third of patients. The procedure also reduced the mean apnea-hyponea index, with patients experiencing a more than half reduction in nonbreathing episodes.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 24, 2007
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.

GABRA2 genotype may moderate alcohol-psychotherapy outcomes

A new study found that individuals with a specific GABRA2 genotype may have fewer drinking days and better treatment response to psychotherapy. The findings suggest that genetic information could be used to match patients with the most effective treatments.

SourceAlcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research·DateOct 24, 2007

New research about smoking/addiction

Researchers found that vitamin supplements may improve lung function in smokers, while early antismoking classes could further enhance knowledge about tobacco's negative effects. Additionally, studies suggest that individuals who drink in moderation may have better lung health compared to abstainers.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 24, 2007
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.

Smoked cannabis proven effective in treating neuropathic pain

A study by researchers at the University of California, San Diego, found that smoked cannabis eased pain induced in healthy volunteers. The results suggest a therapeutic window for cannabis analgesia, with moderate pain relief observed at a medium dose of 4% THC.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAnesthesiology·DateOct 24, 2007
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.

Home computers to help researchers better understand universe

Cosmology@Home allows people worldwide to participate in cutting-edge cosmology research by donating their unused computing cycles. Participating computers calculate the observable predictions of millions of theoretical models with different parameters, which are then compared with actual data.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateOct 24, 2007

New research about new treatments/methods

Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in various medical fields. A new tattooing procedure has improved the precision of VATS, while collaborative efforts have accelerated antibiotic timing. Modified Tai Chi exercises may also help patients with COPD, while human fibrin sealant shows promise for lung resection surgery.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 24, 2007

NIEHS awards outstanding new environmental scientists

The NIEHS has awarded grants totaling $3.5 million to seven outstanding young environmental scientists. These researchers will investigate the mechanisms of environmental exposures and human biology, human pathophysiology, and human disease.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·DateOct 24, 2007
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.

New research about critical care

A new study found that the implementation of eICU tele-intensivist program in hospitals provided positive outcomes, including a decrease in mortality, ICU and hospital length of stays. Another study suggested that rural hospitals can save money by using tele-intensivist programs to reduce patients' hospital length of stay.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 24, 2007

New research about gender differences

Asthma diaries found to improve self-efficacy and reduce doctor visits in women with severe asthma. Research also links iron deficiency to increased coughing in women and neck size to sleep apnea severity, especially in women. Furthermore, a high prevalence of sexual dysfunction is found in pre-menopausal women with obstructive sleep a...

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 24, 2007

Parasites a key to the decline of red colobus monkeys in forest fragments

A new study reveals that parasites play a pivotal role in the decline of species in fragmented forests. Red colobus monkeys were found to be infected with more human or livestock parasites than their black-and-white cousins, due to their varied diet and increased travel range.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAmerican Journal of Primatology·DateOct 24, 2007
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.

New research about COPD

Researchers found that patients with COPD commonly receive the same medication prescriptions, regardless of whether they've undergone spirometry testing. Modified Tai Chi exercises may also improve exercise capacities and quality of life in patients with COPD.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 24, 2007

Promising new TB drug given special status by US and European regulators

A new TB drug, SQ109, has been given special status by the US and European regulators for its potential to combat drug-resistant strains of M. tuberculosis. The orphan designation will accelerate clinical testing of the drug, which may lead to simpler and more effective treatment regimens for the disease.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateOct 24, 2007

Canadians welcome HPV vaccine -- but not at any price

A survey of Quebec residents found that most young women would accept an HPV vaccine if it was offered for free, with 91% agreeing to vaccination. However, acceptance dropped sharply when the vaccine's cost was mentioned, highlighting concerns about access to healthcare services.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateOct 24, 2007

New sleep medicine research

Research studies found that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients experience poor bedtime behaviors, fragmented sleep affects cholesterol levels, and first-night comfort determines CPAP compliance. Additionally, nightshift nurses are more likely to experience sleepiness despite receiving the same amount of sleep as dayshift counterparts.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 24, 2007
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.

Intergroup attitudes among youth addressed by leading development and social psychologists

A recent issue of the International Journal of Behavioral Development explores how cross-group friendships affect intergroup attitudes in children and adolescents. The findings suggest a positive relationship between dual identity and positive intergroup attitudes, highlighting the importance of promoting social inclusion.

SourceSAGE·JournalInternational Journal of Behavioral Development·DateOct 24, 2007

Animal behavior study overturned

Researchers analyzed high-resolution data from loggers on wandering albatrosses' legs, showing they land on the water at simpler random intervals. This challenges previous findings about Lévy flight behavior in animals like deer and bumblebees.

SourceBritish Antarctic Survey·JournalNature·DateOct 24, 2007

'Twinkle' eye test could improve AMD diagnosis

A new 'Twinkle' eye test has been developed to detect vision loss in people with age-related macular disease (AMD), a leading cause of blindness. The test relies on a visual illusion that can identify regions of the eye with vision loss, and its results indicate it could be a powerful diagnostic tool.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 24, 2007

Location, location, location

A study in Ecological Applications finds that cluster development reduces habitat loss, but the placement of housing developments around sensitive areas like lakeshores can exacerbate environmental effects. The researchers suggest that clusters must be located away from these areas to reduce impacts.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcological Applications·DateOct 24, 2007
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.

New research about cough

A new study has found a strong association between iron deficiency and idiopathic cough in women. Italian researchers evaluated 16 healthy, non-smoking women who suffered from chronic cough and were iron deficient, finding that these symptoms were strongly linked to extrathoracic airway hyperresponsiveness.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 24, 2007

A new key to detecting deadly aortic aneurysms

Researchers identified a 41-gene signature in blood cells that distinguishes TAA patients from those without the disease with accuracy rates of 78-85%, paving the way for new detection and treatment methods.

SourceYale University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateOct 24, 2007

Screeners' hands quicker than eyes

Researchers found that screeners are more accurate in visual searches when allowed to correct their choices, but errors rise for rare targets. The study suggests improving airport security and cancer screening by addressing execution errors and perception issues separately.

SourceDuke University·JournalPsychological Science·DateOct 24, 2007

Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute releases special report

The Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute has made significant advancements in understanding and combating malaria, with new discoveries including a potential transmission-blocking vaccine and improved treatments. The institute's research has the potential to save millions of lives worldwide.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·DateOct 24, 2007
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.

Everglades phosphorus limits on the right track, but more is needed

A six-year study by Duke University scientists found that current phosphorus standards protect the Everglades, but high levels persist near outer edges. The researchers suggest a threshold protective zone of 12-15 micrograms per liter is more realistic for the changeable system.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 24, 2007

New data shows benefits of MitraClip for patients with mitral regurgitation

A recent study presented at TCT symposium showed that the vast majority of patients who underwent MitraClip procedure did not need surgery three years later and experienced improved left ventricle function. The device also reduced mitral regurgitation severity and promoted reverse remodeling, leading to better patient outcomes.

SourceEdelman Public Relations, New York·DateOct 24, 2007

HORIZONS AMI trial data will help set guidelines

The HORIZONS AMI trial demonstrated the superiority of bivalirudin over standard drug therapy in reducing net adverse clinical events by 24% and major bleeding by 40% in heart attack patients at 30 days. The study showed significant reductions in cardiac deaths, with a 27% decrease compared to standard therapy.

SourceCardiovascular Research Foundation·DateOct 24, 2007
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.

JAMA study shows what works in treating HIV-infected African children

A new study published in JAMA found that antiretroviral drug therapy and non-physician care, such as nursing, are essential in saving the lives of HIV-infected African children. The research showed significant improvements in CD4 cell counts and weight-for-age scores among children treated with antiretrovirals.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalJAMA·DateOct 24, 2007

Hearing changes how we perceive gender

A Northwestern University study found that tones of voices can alter visual processing, suggesting a direct input from early auditory processing to visual perception. Researchers used pure tones to test whether sounds can influence perception of face gender, with results showing bias towards male or female faces based on tone frequency.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateOct 24, 2007

New pediatric research

Uncontrolled asthma is linked to significantly more school and work absences, with a new study showing up to 2-3 times more days absent. Antismoking classes may improve young children's knowledge about tobacco smoke, while phone triage programs provide safe and cost-effective care for ventilator-dependent children.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 24, 2007

Role of a key enzyme in reducing heart disease identified

A key enzyme called CEH has been identified as a potential target for reducing heart disease by increasing the removal of cholesterol from plaques. The findings suggest that increasing CEH activity may reduce existing plaques in addition to preventing their formation.

SourceVirginia Commonwealth University·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 24, 2007
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.

The conservation lens

A team of researchers explored sub-Antarctic ecosystems to estimate the diversity of tiny bryophytes and lichens, finding a hotspot for these organisms. The study emphasizes the need for conservation strategies that integrate non-vascular plants beyond charismatic mega fauna.

SourceEcological Society of America·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateOct 24, 2007

Researchers view swimming tactics of tiny aquatic predators

Researchers have identified the swimming and attack patterns of two tiny but deadly microbes linked to fish kills in the Chesapeake Bay. The team used digital holographic microscopy to capture three-dimensional images of the troublesome microbes, revealing distinct differences in their hunting tactics.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 24, 2007
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.

Early predictive model may be new 'weapon' against leading cause of death on battlefield

A new predictive model using hemoglobin level, International Normalized Ratio, and penetrating injury mechanism can accurately predict which soldiers require massive blood transfusions, allowing for timely mobilization of resources. This model has been shown to reliably predict the need for massive transfusions in combat patients.

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateOct 24, 2007

Guilt, far loneliness afflict families and caregivers after medical error

Medical errors often lead to guilt, fear and loneliness in patients, families and caregivers, highlighting the need for open communication and emotional support. Honest dialogue can help build bridges and foster forgiveness, leading to closure and improved patient care.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateOct 24, 2007

Living with lions

In Cameroon's Waza National Park, people have learned to coexist with lions, weighing the benefits of closer grazing against the risk of losses. Researchers found that despite the risks, herdsmen continue to live near the park due to improved access to pastures and water.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalAfrican Journal of Ecology·DateOct 24, 2007

Maynard Olson receives $500,000 Gruber Genetics Prize

Maynard Olson receives $500,000 Gruber Genetics Prize for his groundbreaking work on genome mapping and its potential to revolutionize personalized genomics. The prize honors his contributions to breaking down the human genome into manageable pieces.

SourcePeter and Patricia Gruber Foundation·DateOct 24, 2007
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.

Colorful view for first land animals

A study published in BMC Evolutionary Biology found that ancient fish, specifically Australian lungfish, had retinas with visual pigments similar to those of early four-legged vertebrates. This suggests these creatures may have seen their new environment in full color when they first emerged onto land.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateOct 24, 2007

New research about DVT

Elderly patients with DVT are less likely to present typical symptoms and receive treatment outpatient. Researchers suggest that these patients represent a high-risk group due to the combination of DVT and COPD.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 24, 2007
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.

BASF and Harvard University announce extensive research collaboration

BASF and Harvard University have established the BASF Advanced Research Initiative to promote innovative collaborations and develop new technologies. The initiative aims to explore various areas, including applied physics, chemical biology, and materials science, with a focus on developing new products and processes.

SourceHarvard University·DateOct 24, 2007

New research relating to lung function

Researchers have discovered that vitamin supplementation can temporarily improve lung function in smokers. In contrast, athletic activity has been shown to strengthen respiratory muscles and enhance lung function. Additionally, light to moderate drinking may also be associated with better lung function, according to a recent study.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 24, 2007

Decline in uptake of carbon emissions confirmed

A recent study confirms that the proportion of carbon dioxide emissions absorbed by land and oceans is declining, leading to a faster increase in atmospheric CO2 levels. This trend has major implications for climate modeling and highlights the need to reduce global emissions to mitigate climate change.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 24, 2007

Child health psychologists need to promote adult disease prevention

Research highlights the importance of child health psychologists in disease prevention, citing the impact of early lifestyle choices on later-life health. Experts emphasize the need for more targeted prevention programs and increased involvement of child health psychologists in public health efforts.

SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalJournal of Pediatric Psychology·DateOct 24, 2007

New research about PAH

The REVEAL Registry aims to provide reliable information on PAH demographics, clinical course, and management. Researchers found that most patients experience a significant delay between symptom onset and diagnosis, with up to 3-year delays in some cases.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateOct 24, 2007
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.

Hearing 'messages' embedded in noise could be early sign of schizophrenia

A study by Yale School of Medicine researchers found that 80% of participants who 'heard' phrases in length developed a schizophrenia-related illness. The finding suggests an early warning sign for the condition, which could be identified through inexpensive preventive drug therapy.

SourceYale University·JournalThe British Journal of Psychiatry·DateOct 24, 2007