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Science News for February 4, 2008


New hospital standards needed for pediatric flu vaccines

A new study published in Pediatrics found that 23% of children hospitalized with influenza had a previous hospitalization during the most recent flu-vaccine season. This suggests that providing in-hospital vaccinations to those at highest risk may aid in reducing rates of pediatric hospitalization for influenza.

SourceSeattle Children's·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateFeb 4, 2008

Elsevier to publish the Journal of the Korean Statistical Society from 2008

The Journal of the Korean Statistical Society will be published by Elsevier starting from 2008, with an international editorial board and increased availability on ScienceDirect. The journal publishes original research articles on statistics and probability theory, as well as innovative applications and current topics.

SourceElsevier·JournalJournal of the Korean Statistical Society·DateFeb 4, 2008

Gas 'finger' points to galaxies' future

Researchers have discovered a giant hydrogen gas finger in the Milky Way Galaxy, which may indicate that nearby galaxies, such as the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds, will eventually merge with our Galaxy. The study provides valuable insight into the galaxies' fate using CSIRO radio telescopes.

SourceCSIRO Australia·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateFeb 4, 2008
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.

Hidden art could be revealed by new terahertz device

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new terahertz device that can reveal hidden artworks beneath layers of plaster or paint in centuries-old buildings. The device uses pulses of terahertz radiation to detect subtle changes in material, allowing for non-destructive imaging of artworks.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalOptics Communications·DateFeb 4, 2008

Former substance abusers rarely relapse after organ transplantation

A meta-analysis found that former substance abusers have a low rate of relapse after organ transplantation, with significant associations between relapse and poor social support and family alcohol history. The study included over 3,600 individuals who received transplants and examined the rates of alcohol and drug relapse.

SourceWiley·JournalLiver Transplantation·DateFeb 4, 2008

'Tipping points' could come this century

Researchers have identified nine key components of the Earth's climate system at risk of passing a tipping point, with some elements projected to undergo major transitions within the next 100 years. The study highlights the need for early warning systems and caution against complacency in addressing climate change.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2008

Breastfeeding now safer for infants of HIV-infected mothers

A study found that a low-dose regimen of nevirapine significantly reduced the risk of HIV transmission to breast-feeding infants, with a 40% decrease at 6 weeks and 33% decrease at 6 months. The extended-nevirapine regimen is considered safe and shows promise for preventing sexual transmission of HIV.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·DateFeb 4, 2008

Gotta have heart!

Crocodilians divert blood through a special vessel called the left aorta to bypass their lungs during digestion. This unique system enables them to secrete gastric acid at an unprecedented rate, facilitating digestion and survival. By shunting CO2-rich blood straight to the stomach, crocodilians maintain optimal digestive conditions.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalPhysiological and Biochemical Zoology·DateFeb 4, 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.

Annals of Internal Medicine tip sheet for Feb. 5, 2008, issue

Localized prostate cancer treatment options face uncertainty due to limited evidence. Gene expression tests for breast cancer hold promise but require further data on benefits and limitations. New HIV treatment guidelines suggest earlier initiation may increase life expectancy for younger patients. Pregnant women should not be screened...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 4, 2008

References to explicit substance use common in popular music

References to explicit substance use are common in popular music, particularly in genres like hip-hop and rap. The behavior is often motivated by peer pressure or sex, with highly positive consequences portrayed in most songs.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateFeb 4, 2008

No link between MMR jab and autism spectrum disorders

A recent study published in Archives of Disease in Childhood finds no association between the MMR vaccine and autism spectrum disorders, contradicting previous research. The study analyzed blood samples from nearly 250 children with autism, as well as comparison groups without autism or special educational needs.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalArchives of Disease in Childhood·DateFeb 4, 2008

Team develops energy-efficient microchip

The new chip design can be up to 10 times more energy-efficient than present technology, leading to longer-lasting cell phones, implantable medical devices, and sensors.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateFeb 4, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Microneedles enhance drug administration through skin

Researchers demonstrated that microneedle patches can deliver clinically-relevant doses of drugs like naltrexone, reducing side effects and required dosage. The study also found lower production of metabolites, which may cause adverse reactions.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2008

Rheumatoid arthritis sends many into early retirement

A new study reveals that rheumatoid arthritis results in significant economic impact due to early retirement, with up to two-thirds of costs outside the healthcare sector. Patient access to disease-modifying biologic drugs is limited, particularly in Western Europe.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Journal of Health Economics·DateFeb 4, 2008

Kilogram quantities at last!

Researchers at the University of Leipzig successfully produce kilogram quantities of isocitric acid from sunflower oil using a combination of biotechnology and chemical steps. This achievement opens up new avenues for synthesizing complex natural products and chiral building blocks.

SourceWiley·DateFeb 4, 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.

Severe stressful events early in pregnancy may be associated with schizophrenia among offspring

A study of over 1.38 million Danish births found a significant association between exposure to severe stressful events during the first trimester and an increased risk of schizophrenia in children. Chemicals released by the mother's brain in response to stress may affect fetal brain development, particularly in early pregnancy.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateFeb 4, 2008

Small bit of a CMOS chip holds 2-D through-the-walls radar imager

A team of researchers from the University of Southern California has developed a novel 49-pixel probe-and-camera system that can create a 2D through-the-walls radar imager using a small CMOS chip. This technology has potential applications in medical imaging, emergency rescue missions, and security monitoring devices.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·DateFeb 4, 2008

Screening for domestic violence woefully weak in welfare offices

A University of Washington study found that case workers rarely screen for domestic violence, often failing to identify victims or provide necessary services. Researchers recommend a cultural shift in welfare organizations to prioritize screening and supporting vulnerable clients.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalViolence Against Women·DateFeb 4, 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.

Lower transmission increases dengue deaths

Researchers found that lower transmission rates increase dengue deaths by reducing the development of immunity to new strains during a critical cross-immunity period. This allows the virus to gain entry into cells and cause more severe infections.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2008

Communing with nature less and less

Researchers found a significant decline in per capita visits to U.S. national parks since the late 1980s, correlating with an increase in sedentary activities like video gaming and watching movies. This shift, known as 'videophilia,' has far-reaching consequences for physical and mental health, particularly in children.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2008

Trainor Lab prevents rare birth defect by inactivating p53 gene

The Trainor Lab has demonstrated that inactivating the p53 gene can prevent Treacher Collins Syndrome, a rare craniofacial disorder. By inhibiting the p53 protein or inactivating the gene, neural crest cells can survive and form normal craniofacial structures.

SourceStowers Institute for Medical Research·JournalNature Medicine·DateFeb 4, 2008
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.

2 genes found to play crucial role in cell survival

Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered two genes, E2F7 and E2F8, that play a vital role in preventing massive cell death in developing embryos. The study shows that these genes suppress the activity of another gene, E2f1, which is involved in triggering programmed cell death.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateFeb 4, 2008

Ringing endorsement: Women prefer contraceptive ring over patch

A multi-center study of 500 women found that more women preferred the contraceptive ring over the skin patch due to lower complication rates and higher satisfaction. The ring was also reported to have fewer side effects compared to the patch.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateFeb 4, 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.

For treating advanced Parkinson's, new research points to serotonin

Researchers found that manipulating serotonin receptors can block L-DOPA-induced side effects in advanced Parkinson's disease. The discovery suggests a new approach for developing treatments for this disorder, which is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer's.

SourceRockefeller University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2008

'Smart' holograms help patients help themselves

Smart holograms can detect changes in blood-glucose levels, adrenaline levels, and other chemical imbalances, enabling patients to monitor their health more effectively. This new technology has wide applicability in various fields, including diabetes management, security, and smart packaging systems.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalPhysics World·DateFeb 4, 2008

Big Mac: The whole world on your plate

Researchers examined over 7,000 plant species in the human diet, finding that humans consume a remarkably high number of plant families. A study of a McDonald's Big Mac meal revealed approximately 20 different species and ingredients originating from around the world.

SourceUniversity of Calgary·JournalBioScience·DateFeb 4, 2008

Smoking linked to sleep disturbances

Research shows that cigarette smoking is associated with restless sleep and reduced deep sleep hours, as well as increased light sleep. The study suggests that nicotine withdrawal may contribute to these disturbances, particularly in the early stages of sleep.

SourceAmerican College of Chest Physicians·DateFeb 4, 2008

Freshwater fish invasions the result of human activity

A new study reveals that human economic activity is a primary driver of invasive fish species in rivers and lakes. The research found no correlation between native species and invasive species, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect aquatic ecosystems.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 4, 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.

Women take almost 50 percent more short-term sick leave than men

Middle-aged women in Finland took almost 50% more short-term sick leave than their male counterparts, with physical health problems and work fatigue being key contributors. The researchers suggest that women may be better at recognizing problems and seeking medical treatment.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalOccupational and Environmental Medicine·DateFeb 4, 2008

Model found to determine cause, possible treatment of nerve tumors

Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center have developed a mouse model that helps unravel the cause of fibrous, non-cancerous nerve tumors called neurofibromas. The model provides insights into the biological mechanisms underlying tumor formation and serves as a platform for therapeutic testing.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalCancer Cell·DateFeb 4, 2008

Resisting lung cancer recurrence

A vaccine booster has been shown to induce a persistent immune response against lung cancer, reducing the risk of recurrence. The study found that patients who received regular recall injections experienced improved immunological memory, which can be strengthened with additional vaccinations.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2008

Public support for use of human tissue in research has gone up

A study found that public support for using human tissue in research has risen over the past decade, despite adverse publicity surrounding previous incidents. The survey revealed that 96% of patients are in favour of their tissue being used for medical research, while 92% are happy to see it used to train medical students.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalJournal of Clinical Pathology·DateFeb 4, 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.

Use of patient restraints reduced through use of consultation program

A new study published in Perspectives in Psychiatric Care shows that a psychiatric consultation team working closely with hospital staff led to the elimination of patient restraints for those with mental and developmental disabilities. The use of restraints was reduced through better communication, support, and staff training.

SourceBlackwell Publishing Ltd.·JournalPerspectives In Psychiatric Care·DateFeb 4, 2008
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.

Researchers use new method to probe recollections in memory-impaired patients

A new study by UCSD researchers found that autobiographical recollection was impaired for recent memories but fully intact for remote past memories in patients with medial temporal lobe damage. The Autobiographical Interview method elicited more detailed long-term memories than previous studies.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2008

Gene protects adults abused as children from depression

A recent study found that adults who were abused in childhood and carried a specific gene variant showed lower measures of depression. The gene variant, corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor one (CRHR1), appears to protect against depression in adults who experienced moderate to severe child abuse.

SourceEmory Health Sciences·JournalArchives of General Psychiatry·DateFeb 4, 2008

Neighborhood ethnic density associated with risk of psychosis among immigrants in the Netherlands

A recent study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that immigrants living in neighborhoods with a small proportion of their own ethnic group are at increased risk for psychotic disorders. The research confirms the importance of environmental and social experiences in contributing to these disorders.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·DateFeb 4, 2008

Tipping elements in the Earth's climate system

Researchers identify critical thresholds in climate system components that could trigger drastic changes, such as the melting of Arctic sea-ice and Greenland Ice Sheet. These 'tipping elements' require immediate consideration in international climate politics to prevent potentially catastrophic consequences.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2008

Baboon dads have surprising influence on daughters' fitness

Scientists have found that polygamous baboon fathers who spend time with their children during juvenile years can influence their daughters' fitness. The study, led by Duke University professor Susan Alberts, suggests that fatherly presence can give offspring a jump-start on reproduction, especially among females.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2008
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

How is that whale listening?

A team of scientists has discovered a new pathway for sound transmission in Cuvier's beaked whales using finite element modeling and computed tomography scanning. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that noise vibrations travel through the lower jaw to reach the ear complex, instead revealing a unique fatty channel.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateFeb 4, 2008

The neural basis of 'number sense' in young infants

Young infants can detect small changes in the number and identity of objects, and these abilities are processed by distinct neural pathways. The study found that the infant brain responds to both changes in different brain regions, similar to adults.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 4, 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.

Birds, bats and insects hold secrets for aerospace engineers

Researchers aim to create flapping-wing aircraft that can hover and perch, like birds and bats, which outperform man-made planes in efficiency. By studying the aerodynamics of natural flyers, engineers hope to develop vehicles capable of performing missions in uncertain environments.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateFeb 4, 2008

Antiretroviral drugs may protect against sexual transmission of HIV

A new study suggests that antiretroviral drugs used to treat HIV can also protect people from getting the AIDS virus, especially when two drugs are taken in combination before exposure to the virus. The best protection was seen in macaques that received a combination of two drugs, with all being protected from infection.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateFeb 4, 2008

Study finds good outcomes for older lung transplant patients

A new UCLA Medical Center study shows that select patients age 65 and older can safely undergo lung transplantation with acceptable outcomes. The study found similar survival rates between younger and older patients, suggesting that age should not preclude patients from the procedure.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery·DateFeb 4, 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.

Grapefruit compound may help combat hepatitis C infection

Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital have discovered that grapefruit compound naringenin can block the secretion of hepatitis C virus from infected cells, a key step in maintaining chronic infection. This finding suggests that combining naringenin with antiviral medication may allow patients to clear the virus from their livers.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalHepatology·DateFeb 4, 2008

Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research receives NHMRC's largest 2009 grant

The Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research in Melbourne received a $20 million NHMRC grant to develop new ways of detecting and treating colon cancer, the most common form of cancer in Australia. The research will focus on five key projects relating to genetic causes, biomarkers, and therapies for colon cancer.

SourceLudwig Institute for Cancer Research·DateFeb 4, 2008

Researchers at Leeds mine the 'Terahertz gap'

The University of Leeds team has secured a £2 million grant to study the changes in behavior and properties of nano-scale systems within the terahertz region. By examining these systems with terahertz radiation, the researchers aim to develop new nano-scale electronic devices for sensing, imaging, and spectroscopy applications.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·DateFeb 4, 2008

Bacterium sequenced makes rare form of chlorophyll

Scientists have sequenced the genome of a rare cyanobacterium that produces an even rarer form of chlorophyll, enabling it to harness near-infrared light. This breakthrough could lead to genetically altered plants that can store and generate solar energy, increasing photosynthesis efficiency.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 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.

Core blimey! University of Leicester scientist calls for geological 'time machine'

A geologist at the University of Leicester has proposed an enormous exhibition to showcase the Earth's 64-million-year history, highlighting the brevity of human civilization. The massive core would measure 1.5km long, with key events marked along its length, including the evolution of humans and past climactic upheavals.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalGeoscientist·DateFeb 4, 2008

Researchers uncover key interaction in cholesterol regulation

UT Southwestern researchers have determined the specific way in which PCSK9 disrupts LDL receptor activity, leading to increased 'bad' cholesterol levels. By designing targeted antibodies to disrupt this interaction, they aim to develop a new class of drugs to lower cholesterol.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2008