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Science News for December 18, 2008


Better patient outcomes with drug eluting stents

A new study published in CMAJ found that patients receiving drug eluting stents had better outcomes, including lower mortality rates, compared to those with bare metal stents. However, the study also noted an increased risk of repeat revascularization procedures or death after three years.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateDec 18, 2008

Water in the early universe

Astronomers use gravitational lensing effect to magnify light from quasar MG J0414+0534, detecting water vapour at redshift 2.64, a time when the Universe was only a fifth of its current age

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateDec 18, 2008

First trimester smoking linked to oral clefts

A new study published in Epidemiology found that smoking during the first trimester of pregnancy increases the risk of cleft lip in newborns. The study suggests that 19% of cases may be due to maternal smoking, with a two-fold increased risk from heavy smoking and 1.6 fold risk from passive smoking.

SourceNorwegian Institute of Public Health·JournalEpidemiology·DateDec 18, 2008
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.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Find the aphid

Aphids leave behind their old exoskeletons, called exuviae, to act as decoys for parasitoid wasps. This behavior helps aphids escape from parasitic attacks by giving other aphids time to flee while the wasps investigate the empty shells.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateDec 18, 2008

Duke researchers coax bright white light from unexpected source

Researchers have discovered a way to produce brilliant white light using zinc oxide and sulfur, with potential applications for energy-efficient and safe illumination. The new material has been shown to convert invisible ultraviolet light into natural white light, offering advantages over current fluorescent bulbs and LEDs.

SourceDuke University·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 18, 2008

Montana State study finds super dads, possible polygamists among dinos

A Montana State University study found that males from three types of dinosaurs were sole care givers for their mate's eggs, possibly having multiple mates. The researchers examined fossil evidence and compared clutch sizes to adult sizes in the dinosaurs and their closest living relatives, birds and crocodiles.

SourceMontana State University·JournalScience·DateDec 18, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation devotes special issue to traumatic brain injury

The Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation devotes a special supplement to traumatic brain injury (TBI), featuring studies on patterns, predictors, and mechanisms for recovery. The supplement aims to encourage new directions for treatment research based on the root causes of behavioral and brain dysfunction.

SourceElsevier·JournalArchives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation·DateDec 18, 2008

Medical acupuncture gaining acceptance by the US Air Force

The US Air Force is integrating medical acupuncture into its military healthcare, utilizing a technique developed by Dr. Richard Niemtzow to relieve severe pain lasting several days. This approach reduces reliance on pain medications that may cause adverse reactions or addiction, offering a promising alternative for pain management in ...

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalMedical Acupuncture·DateDec 18, 2008

Blocking the spread of antibiotic resistance in bacteria

Northwestern University researchers have discovered a CRISPR locus that can impede the spread of antibiotic resistance in pathogenic staphylococci by blocking plasmid transfer. This mechanism could provide a means to limit the spread of antibiotic resistance genes and virulence factors in bacteria.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·DateDec 18, 2008

Gesture recognition

Researchers developed a computer system architecture that can recognize human gestures, enabling people with physical disabilities to interact with computers. The system uses datagloves with illuminated LEDs tracked by webcams to monitor hand or shoulder movements.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Arts and Technology·DateDec 18, 2008
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.

Not just for depression anymore

A recent study by Tel Aviv University researchers validates Prozac's potential in fighting cancer itself. Prozac dramatically enhances the effectiveness of doxorubicin, an anti-cancer drug, by blocking resistance mechanisms in cancer cells.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalCancer Letters·DateDec 18, 2008

British scientist warns we must protect the vulnerable from robots

Top robotics expert Professor Noel Sharkey urges setting policy guidelines for the safe and ethical application of robots. Service robots are increasingly used in care settings, raising concerns about social isolation and potential psychological impacts on children and elderly individuals.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalScience·DateDec 18, 2008

AAAS and UTSA announces 2008 Fellows Ravi Sandhu and Miguel Yacaman

UTSA researchers Ravi Sandhu and Miguel Yacaman were elected as American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Fellows for their scientifically distinguished efforts in cyber security and nanotechnology. Their work has advanced science and its applications, making significant contributions to these fields.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·JournalScience·DateDec 18, 2008
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.

Timetable for Puget Sound restoration suffers setback

Researchers warn that 10-30 year delay in predicted cleanup date may occur due to increased urban growth and non-point sources. Despite regulations, pollutants have returned to pre-industrial concentration levels, while stormwater discharges pose a significant threat to coastal systems.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 18, 2008

Sulfurous ping-pong in the urinary tract

ETH Zurich researchers discovered a previously unknown protein structure and mechanism for sulfur transfer in E. coli, which could lead to the development of antibacterial drugs targeting urinary tract infections. The unique two-propeller structure of ASST catalyzes a ping-pong mechanism for sulfuryl transfer.

SourceETH Zurich/Swiss Federal Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2008

Denise Galloway and Gerald Smith named AAAS Fellows

Denise Galloway, a microbiologist, was honored for her work on human papillomaviruses causing anogenital malignancies. Her studies established that nearly all cervical cancers are caused by HPVs, leading to breakthroughs in Gardasil vaccine development. Gerald Smith, a geneticist and microbiologist, was recognized for his research on h...

SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·DateDec 18, 2008

New research to exploit world's thinnest material

The University of Exeter and Bath have secured a £5 million Science and Innovation Award to create the Centre of Graphene Science. Researchers will focus on graphene's mechanical, electrical, and optical properties for computing and medicine applications.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·DateDec 18, 2008
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.

UCSF receives $24.4 million to fight early childhood cavities

The UCSF School of Dentistry has received a seven-year grant to launch programs preventing early childhood tooth decay. The initiative aims to reduce oral health disparities among vulnerable populations, particularly children in low-income families and minority groups.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·DateDec 18, 2008

Miscarriage and infertility treatment increase pre-eclampsia risk

A study of over 20,000 first-time mothers found that repeated miscarriages and hormone treatment for infertility increased the risk of pre-eclampsia. Women with one or two miscarriages were not at higher risk, but those who had three or more miscarriages saw a 50% increase in pre-eclampsia risk.

SourceNorwegian Institute of Public Health·JournalBritish Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology·DateDec 18, 2008
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.

Group treatment may help children achieve healthier weights

Children participating in group weight-management programs showed significant decreases in BMI scores compared to control groups. The study found that families and group leaders worked together to set individualized dietary goals and promote physical activity, leading to a 4% decrease in overweight children in treatment groups.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateDec 18, 2008

MRI brain scans accurate in early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease

Researchers found MRI brain scans accurately diagnose Alzheimer's disease even before symptoms interfere with daily function. The study suggests incorporating MRIs into the assessment of patients with memory problems can standardize and improve early diagnosis.

SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalNeurology·DateDec 18, 2008

Men, women give to charity differently, says new research from Texas A&M faculty

Men are more likely to give money to someone in their neighborhood if they give at all. Women tend to be more generous and give equal amounts to both groups. The study's findings have implications for fundraisers, suggesting charities should focus on relationships between donors and causes to ensure ingroup connection.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateDec 18, 2008

Passage graves from an astronomical perspective

Researchers found that passage graves in Denmark are oriented towards the full moon and lunar eclipses, hinting at an ancient astronomical calendar. The study suggests that the Stone Age people may have used these alignments for ritual practices and predicting lunar eclipses.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalActa Archaeologica·DateDec 18, 2008

Argonne advancing DOE INCITE scientific research projects

The Department of Energy's Innovative and Novel Computational Impact on Theory and Experiment (INCITE) program has awarded 28 projects at Argonne National Laboratory with $400 million hours of computing time. These projects will focus on various fields including energy, biology, climate change, astrophysics, and more.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateDec 18, 2008
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.

Male dinosaurs may have been prehistoric babysitters, study shows

A study by Texas A&M University researcher Jason Moore suggests that male dinosaurs may have cared for and watched over eggs, similar to female birds. The findings are based on the examination of six well-preserved dinosaur egg nests, which indicate that males likely played a key role in incubating the eggs.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalScience·DateDec 18, 2008

Researchers lay out vision for lighting 'revolution'

Researchers envision a 'revolution' in lighting with LEDs, promising cost savings of $1.83 trillion and reduced carbon emissions by 10.68 gigatons. Smart lighting applications could enhance healthcare, transportation, digital displays, and computer networking.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalOptics Express·DateDec 18, 2008

Abrupt climate change: United States report findings

A new USGS report highlights the potential for abrupt climate changes in the US, including rapid sea ice loss, increased drought, and decreased ocean circulation. Further research is needed to improve understanding of these changes and develop effective adaptation strategies.

SourceU.S. Geological Survey·DateDec 18, 2008
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.

Dangerous sandwiches

A woman with a rare condition known as swallow syncope experiences episodes of feeling light-headed after eating sandwiches or fizzy drinks. The condition is caused by alterations in the vagal nervous reflex arc, leading to abnormal feedback that affects heart function.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateDec 18, 2008

Scientists study how asbestos fibers trigger cancer in human cells

Researchers use atomic force microscopy to probe individual bonds between asbestos fibers and human cells, revealing potential triggers for cancer. The study aims to understand how asbestos interacts with cell surface receptors, which could aid in drug development efforts targeting mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses.

SourceOhio State University·DateDec 18, 2008

F-MARC funds more 'soccer and health' research

The F-MARC project aims to investigate the long-term cardio-vascular and musculo-skeletal health effects of regular football and jogging participation. The research focuses on premenopausal untrained women and middle-aged men with hypertension, aiming to provide scientific recommendations for millions of soccer players worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·DateDec 18, 2008

Researchers push nature beyond its limits to create higher-density biofuels

Scientists have successfully engineered bacteria to produce unusually long-chain alcohols essential in the creation of biofuels, packing more energy into a smaller space. The new method could lead to more efficient production of gasoline and jet fuel, reducing volatility and corrosion., Researchers used genetic modification to expand n...

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2008

A simple fusion to jump-start evolution

Scientists have found a way for ancient RNA molecules to fuse together naturally, forming larger fragments that can reach a biologically important size. This discovery could help explain how life emerged on Earth, with RNA molecules able to fold into functional shapes at around 100 bases long.

SourceAmerican Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateDec 18, 2008
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.

5 Brown faculty elected to world's largest scientific body

Five Brown University faculty, including neuroscientist David Berson and brain scientist John Donoghue, have been elected as fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. They were recognized for their contributions to various fields, including visual neuroscience, marine ecology, and cell biology.

SourceBrown University·JournalScience·DateDec 18, 2008

Synthetic biology key in the 21st century

The Synthetic Biology Project aims to minimize risks and maximize benefits through rigorous analysis and public engagement. The project explores governance options, examines public perceptions, and identifies knowledge gaps in synthetic biology.

SourceWoodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars/Science and Technology Innovation Program·DateDec 18, 2008
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Carnegie's Field and Koshland elected AAAS Fellows

Christopher B. Field, director of Carnegie's Department of Global Ecology, and Douglas E. Koshland, staff scientist at the Department of Embryology, have been elected as AAAS Fellows. They received this honor for advancing science or its applications through their work on global ecology and cell biology.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalScience·DateDec 18, 2008

A walk in the park a day keeps mental fatigue away

A new study published in Psychological Science found that spending time in nature improves attention and memory processes. Volunteers who took a walk in a park performed better on a task than those who walked downtown or viewed urban scenes.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateDec 18, 2008
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Where did Venus's water go?

Scientists discover hydrogen gas being stripped from Venus' day-side, indicating water is being broken up in the atmosphere. The loss of hydrogen and oxygen suggests that water on Venus was once abundant but has since been depleted.

SourceEuropean Space Agency·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 18, 2008

Stem cells and leukemia battle for marrow microenvironment

Leukemia takes over bone marrow niches, crowding out healthy stem cells. Blocking cancer cell chemical signals could help protect stem cells and improve treatment strategies. Researchers develop approach to blunt leukemia's effect on stem cells, potentially boosting immune system response.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalScience·DateDec 18, 2008
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.

Common infant virus may trigger type 1 diabetes

A study from the Norwegian Institute of Public Health found no significant link between human parechovirus infections and typical symptoms in infants. However, researchers noticed an increase in parechovirus infection between 6-18 months, which could be due to factors such as maternal antibody loss or nursery exposure.

SourceNorwegian Institute of Public Health·JournalJournal of Medical Virology·DateDec 18, 2008

Science's breakthrough of the year: Cellular reprogramming

Researchers successfully reprogrammed cells from patients with difficult-to-study diseases, creating 'stem-cell-like' cells that can be induced to assume new identities. This innovation holds promise for understanding disease development and potentially treating conditions like Parkinson's disease and type 1 diabetes.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateDec 18, 2008

New technology aims to reduce maternal and neonatal deaths

A new technology has been developed to identify pregnant women at risk of developing preeclampsia, a leading cause of maternal and neonatal deaths worldwide. The technology employs a panel of biomarkers found in the placenta and could lead to earlier detection and targeted intervention.

SourceUniversity of Western Ontario·DateDec 18, 2008

Common treatment for chronic prostatitis fails to reduce symptoms

A recent clinical trial sponsored by NIH found that alfuzosin, a commonly prescribed drug for chronic prostatitis, did not significantly reduce symptoms in newly diagnosed men. The study showed no significant differences between the treatment and placebo groups in terms of symptom improvement.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateDec 18, 2008
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

LSUHSC's Hill selected as Fellow of AAAS

Dr. James M. Hill has been awarded the distinction of American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Fellow for his contributions to understanding viral and bacterial keratitis. He is being honored for developing excellent animal models and unique drug delivery systems, as well as identifying a specific human gene as a risk...

SourceLouisiana State University Health Sciences Center·JournalScience·DateDec 18, 2008

Researchers advance knowledge of little 'nano-machines' in our body

Canada-U.S. biophysicists develop a novel method to detect movement of single proteins controlling ion exchange between cells and environment. The new technique allows scientists to measure one single ion channel at a time and investigate how different parts inside the ion channels communicate.

SourceUniversity of Montreal·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 18, 2008

Biomarkers improve ischemic stroke prediction

Researchers found that testing two inflammation biomarkers, Lp-PLA2 and hs-CRP, improved the prediction of ischemic stroke in patients. Adding both biomarkers to traditional risk factors provided the most accurate picture of stroke risk.

SourceBaylor College of Medicine·JournalStroke·DateDec 18, 2008

Panic attacks linked to higher risk of heart attacks and heart disease, especially in younger people

A study found that individuals diagnosed with panic attacks or disorder have a significantly increased risk of developing coronary heart disease and suffering a heart attack, particularly among those under 50 years old. However, the research also showed that people with panic disorders face a reduced risk of dying from heart conditions.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateDec 18, 2008

Study indicates how we make proper movements

Researchers found that when we see an object, multiple motor programs are involuntarily activated, competing for control. The brain uses a common mechanism to filter out irrelevant information, allowing us to execute precise movements.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalPsychological Science·DateDec 18, 2008
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.

When scientists take on science education

A CSU team report highlights the potential of science faculty specializing in education to improve science teaching. The study found that 47% of 'science faculty with education specialties' (SFES) transitioned into the role from traditional positions, while 53% were hired specifically for the SFES role.

SourceSan Francisco State University·JournalScience·DateDec 18, 2008

Lifecycles of tropical cyclones predicted in global computer model

The Nonhydrostatic ICosahedral Atmospheric Model (NICAM) successfully simulated the lifecycles of two real tropical cyclones. The model's realistic representation of clouds and atmospheric conditions allowed it to reproduce the birth, path, and evolution of the observed cyclones.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateDec 18, 2008

New label-free method tracks molecules and drugs in live cells

Researchers at Harvard University developed a highly sensitive microscopy technique based on stimulated Raman scattering, allowing for real-time tracking of metabolites and drugs in living cells. This technology has the potential to revolutionize metabolic studies of omega-3 fatty acids and understand their processing in the human body.

SourceHarvard University·JournalScience·DateDec 18, 2008

2 Wake Forest University chemistry professors named 2008 AAAS Fellows

Wake Forest University chemistry professors Mark Welker and Dilip Kondepudi were elected as 2008 AAAS Fellows for their significant contributions to the fields of non-equilibrium chemistry and organometallic chemistry. The recognition highlights their scientifically distinguished efforts to advance science.

SourceWake Forest University·JournalScience·DateDec 18, 2008